Designers Say Your Home Could Be So Much Nicer If You Do Any Of These Cheap Things

“One of the easiest and most impactful upgrades is to add throw pillows with interesting textures and patterns,” says Elissa Hall, founder and lead designer of EDH Interiors in Portland. “These can instantly bring color and personality to a space without requiring a major overhaul. [...] These small touches can make your living room feel more cohesive and inviting.”

Whether you're refreshing old pillows or adding a chic accent, these velvet pillow covers are a great choice for any decor. Made from luxurious velvet polyester, they’re durable and comfortable. Reviewers rave about the quality and stunning array of 50 colors to choose from.

“Light switch plates and outlet covers are often overlooked, but they play a significant role in the overall look of a room,” says Hall. “Replacing old, discolored covers with new ones can make your space look cleaner and more cohesive. In one of my projects, we replaced all the light switch plates and outlet covers in a client's kitchen with stainless steel versions. The result was a much sleeker and more contemporary look, achieved without spending a fortune.”

Crafted from 430 stainless steel, this wall plate offers high-impact resistance and corrosion protection, ensuring durability even in extreme environments. The smooth brushed finish and contoured edges add an elegant touch while still being functional. Easy to install, these wall plates come with matching screws and are an inexpensive way to enhance any room's look and safety.

Adding or upgrading cabinet hardware is another simple and budget-friendly way to enhance your home's look. “Swapping out old knobs and pulls for new, stylish ones can make a big difference,” says Hall. “Amazon offers a wide range of affordable options in various styles and finishes, from brushed nickel to antique brass."

Ideal for cabinets and drawers, these cabinet pulls are a chic and functional upgrade for any home. Durable and stylish, they offer a sleek finish that complements any decor. Shoppers love the sturdy, weighted feel and slim profile, also reporting that they’re easy to install.

Carol Kurth, Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (FAIA), professional practitioner with the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), and a principal of Carol Kurth Architecture + Interiors, suggests you upgrade your door handles, and she has specific recommendations. She suggests two models of door handles from the Baldwin Prestige Series collection, where she's a member of Baldwin's Design Authority team.

The first recommendation is this stylish, functional lever. Made for doors that don’t need locks or latches, it installs easily on one side of any standard door, ideal for pantry doors, closets, or other pull-to-open spaces. With a fully reversible design, it fits both right-handed and left-handed doors. Treated with Microban protection, this hardware is designed to stay 99.9% cleaner than unprotected surfaces, according to the brand.

Enhance the elegance and functionality of your home with Kurth’s second recommendation, this right-handed lever. Similarly to the previous level, this one is ideal for any door that doesn’t need a lock and requires a simple pull to open. This lever installs in minutes with just a screwdriver, making it an easy DIY project, and it’s also treated with Microban sanitation protection.

Noelle Harvey, owner and head designer at Sunday House in Portland, Oregon, says: “Organize your countertops by putting things in uniform canisters; it will really amp up your kitchen to get all of the random bottles out of there.”

Upgrade your kitchen storage with this stylish canister set. Made of high-gloss porcelain with airtight bamboo lids, these canisters ensure your ingredients stay fresh with a satisfying “pop” when opened. Available in multiple sizes and colors, they seamlessly blend with any kitchen decor. Easy to clean and dishwasher safe, these canisters combine modern design with practicality.

“Try a fun wallpaper on an accent wall — it will liven up your space and make you happy every time you look at it,” suggests Harvey. “We've been loving palm prints in pantries and powder rooms and have also been doing some gorgeous floral prints in living spaces.”

Whether you’re refreshing a room or adding a decorative touch to your furniture, this peel-and-stick wallpaper makes it easy and fun to create a beautiful space. This roll covers 28.18 square feet and features an easy-to-apply design — just peel and stick with no mess, water, or paste required. Ideal for walls, furniture, DIY crafts, and more, this versatile wallpaper offers a fresh, stylish update with minimal commitment. It’s 100% removable without leaving sticky residue.

“Give walls some TLC by touching up any nicks and painting walls with a creamy white,” says Harvey. “The creamy white will create more warmth and depth.”

Whether you're touching up walls or tackling a full room makeover, this combination paint and primer offers a great choice for achieving a flawless, professional look. It provides a smooth, uniform appearance, making it ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and more. With its easy soap and water clean-up and low VOC content, this paint is both user-friendly and environmentally conscious.

David Silva, owner and interior designer at HomRem in Las Vegas, says, “Window treatments are truly the eyebrows of home — if you can't drill into walls, use tension rods to add curtains to liven up your space.”

Easy to install with no tools required, this tension rod elegantly hangs window treatments, enhancing doorways, windows, showers, and more. This versatile rod adjusts from 24 to 36 inches to fit various spaces. Its unique design, finished with a rustproof black coating, ensures durability indoors and outdoors. Solid metal finials and a thick, heavy construction make it ideal for holding heavier panels, while the nonslip, non-scratch rubber ends protect your surfaces.

“I've transformed so many homes not by adding expensive furniture, but by cleaning up the clutter!” says Silva. “Storage cubes and storage baskets keep small items from becoming an eyesore. They're perfect for blankets, toys, books, or any other items that may not fit the atmosphere of the room. Keeping them out of sight makes it easier to have a unanimous color palette throughout your space.”

Organize your home with these discreet fabric storage bins. Made from durable, breathable linen fabric and reinforced with sturdy cardboard, these storage bins maintain their shape and can handle heavy loads easily. The unique foldable and stackable design saves space, while the flip-top lids with hook-and-loop closures keep your items dust-free and tidy. Handles make them easy to move around and reorganize.

Another Silva-recommended option is to organize living areas with this rope storage basket. It's great for holding throw pillows, blankets, comforters, and more. Its versatile design makes it also ideal for toys, games, art supplies, and clothes, fitting with the decor of any room. The durable handles and foldable design ensure easy portability, while the neutral color and soft material add a chic touch. Plus, it's washable and will return to its best shape after filling it with towels or blankets.

“I specifically recommend blackout curtains because they give you complete control over how much light enters the room,” says Silva. “Use them on windows that get direct sunlight to avoid those harsh, bright rays blinding your space. Plus, blocking sunlight will help keep your house much cooler, helping you save so much on your AC bills that these curtains might pay for themselves!"

These double-layered blackout curtains feature a gray liner on the back, effectively blocking out all sunlight and harmful UV rays, making them great for keeping your room cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Crafted from faux linen, they have a luxurious, drapey feel while providing excellent noise reduction and privacy. The rod pocket and back tab design offer easy installation, and each package includes two panels.

For a more colorful option, try these ombre blackout curtains. Each package includes two panels featuring a modern ombre design with wavy line elements that add sophistication to any room. Made from polyester fabric, these curtains completely block out sunlight and UV rays, protecting your furniture and providing total privacy. The thermal insulated design helps balance room temperature, saving on energy costs year-round.

“Simply upgrading from your incandescent bulbs to LED bulbs can transform your space alone,” Silva notes. “The main visual drawback to incandescent bulbs is the warm-yellow light. This works for some parts of the home — like bedrooms — but others benefit more from a whiter, more natural-looking light. Whiter light not only makes a space more active and energetic, it lets the color palette of the room stand out much more beautifully.”

Utilizing the latest LED technology, these LED light bulbs eliminate flicker, strobe, and glare, reducing eye strain and preventing migraines. With the ability to replace 60-watt bulbs using just 9 watts, you can save up to 85% on energy bills, according to the brand, without sacrificing brightness. These durable, non-dimmable bulbs boast a long lifespan of up to 25,000 hours, ensuring you won't need frequent replacements.

“I have found this unique ceramic utensil holder to be the perfect addition to any kitchen,” says Brian Curran, architect, interior designer, and founder of DraftingServices.com. “I personally love using it as a pen holder on my desk to add a touch of elegance and organization. It's also great for displaying flowers and other small items in any room. My clients have loved this upgrade as it adds both functionality and aesthetics to their homes.”

Whether used as an organizer or a vase, this ceramic utensil holder makes an interesting statement on tables or shelves. Its unique terrazzo marble pattern and heavy, stable design prevent spills and keep your utensils, makeup brushes, or pens easily accessible and stylishly displayed.

“I found a lotus flower table lamp to decorate any part of your garden, day or night,” says Curran. “It's eco-friendly and durable, needing six to eight hours of sunlight to emit light for at least eight hours at night, creating a warm atmosphere. My idea is to strategically place it to decorate the gardens, courtyards, porches, balconies, terraces, tables, aisles, lawns, rockeries, and Zen gardens. The adjustable petals allow you to control its bloom.”

This beautifully designed solar light features warm white LED lights that emit a soft amber glow, creating a water ripple pattern on your walls. Made of durable gray metal and amber cracked glass, it boasts an IP44 waterproof and dustproof rating, so it’ll perform in all weather conditions. Simply place it in the sun to charge, and enjoy up to eight hours of illumination at night.

“Adding LED ribbon lights underneath cabinets, behind TVs, or along baseboards creates a welcoming warmth throughout the home,” says Nitya Seth, interior designer, founder and CEO of NITYANAMYA. “LED strip lights come in many forms, however, most have one thing in common – simple installation and effective results!"

Brighten up your home's dark spots effortlessly with these battery-operated LED strip lights. Powered by three AA batteries, these ultra-thin lights eliminate the need for complicated wiring, making installation a breeze with the included heavy-duty 3M adhesive tape. You'll enjoy a lively, neutral white light that illuminates any area.

“The ambiance of a room can be changed significantly by introducing greenery,” says Seth. “This not only adds beauty but also purifies the air we breathe.”

House your plants in this seamlessly matching set of six plastic planters designed to meet all your planting needs. Ranging in size, these pots cater to different plant sizes and growth stages so your plants can thrive. Made from BPA-free PP material, they are sturdy and durable for long-term use. Each pot features two drainage holes and includes a saucer to prevent water accumulation and root rot, promoting healthy plant growth.

“Decorative trays are tools to arrange and exhibit things on coffee tables, dressers, or countertops in a neat manner,” says Seth. “Such additions can imbue elegance and orderliness in places without having to strain one’s pocket so much.”

Add an elegant, functional accent to your living space with this decorative tray, featuring a contemporary design and stylish aluminum gold handle. Whether you're organizing towels in the bathroom, serving a brunch with coffee, snacks, and rosé, or displaying your favorite perfumes and decor items, this tray is the ideal choice. Easy to clean with just a damp cloth, this tray is both practical and beautiful, available in three colors to match any decor.

Sometimes it’s the little details that make a big difference, according to Seth. “Simple things like new dish towels, utensil holders, or countertop storage units can boost your kitchen appearance without much expense on renovation works,” the designer advises.

Sleekly designed to spruce up your kitchen, this 32-piece cooking utensil set is comprehensive and easy to clean. Featuring everything you need, from turners and ladles to measuring spoons and a pizza cutter, this set ensures you're equipped for any culinary adventure. Crafted from top-grade stainless steel and durable silicone, these utensils are built to last without bending, breaking, or rusting. The non-scratch silicone heads help protect your expensive nonstick cookware, extending its life.

“I think one of the best things you can do to boost your home's appearance is to paint your front door,” says Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Improovy. “This is something I really recommend for anyone looking to give their home a fresh look without actually doing or spending too much. The best part is, you will typically only need about a quart of paint to cover your front door, which can make it a cheaper job than painting your garage door or an accent wall inside.”

Transform the look of your doors and shutters in just one day with this front door paint. The vibrant color will stay as beautiful as the first day it was applied, even under harsh elements. The paint dries to a smooth satin finish in one hour, covering up to 100 square feet. Shoppers love its silky, easy-to-apply consistency and quick drying time, making it a great choice for a fast, stunning home makeover.

Josh Qian, COO and co-founder of Best Online Cabinets, has a fun suggestion for your home. “Liven up a boring side table with a mini terrarium tabletop transformation,” he says. Use an inexpensive glass container to “create a miniature world inside with pebbles, succulents, and decorative moss.”

Qian recommends this glass terrarium, inspired by the shape of a charming house. It features exquisite curved metal decorations that project a fairytale-like glow in the morning sun. Made of brass and tempered glass, this handmade piece doubles as a display box, wedding card holder, or storage box. With a free spray bottle and gardening tools included, this terrarium is both a beautiful and practical addition to any decor.

“Consider upgrading your stair railing with decorative stair treads,” says Qian, specifically recommending the KIMODE stair tread covers as an easy, affordable way to instantly modernize a dated staircase. “The peel-and-stick design lets you transform the look without any complex installation. The nonslip backing provides added safety and traction."

Crafted from soft felt material, these nonslip stair treads provide excellent friction between your feet and the stairs, helping make them safer for both family and pets. Easy to install without glue, tapes, or nails, simply clean your stairs, peel off the backing, and stick the treads in place. They come in five colors, fit most indoor stairs, and can be easily trimmed to size. They’re suitable for hardwood, laminate, marble, and tile surfaces.

“Instead of painting your cabinets entirely, consider stencils,” suggests Qian. “There are beautiful geometric or floral stencil patterns available for under $15. Use painter's tape to create crisp lines and stencil a fresh design onto your cabinet doors for a one-of-a-kind look.”

Unleash your creativity with this set of wildflower stencils, featuring 13 large spray paint stencils with intricate, nature-inspired patterns like flowers, birds, vines, and cherry blossoms. Made from thick mylar plastic, these stencils are flexible, washable, and reusable, ensuring they last through countless art projects. Suitable for decorating wood, fabric, metal, rocks, notebooks, and more, these stencils make it easy to add a touch of nature to any flat surface.

“One of my go-to tips is to incorporate statement throw pillows,” says Adam Chahl, real estate agent and interior design specialist with Vancouver Home Search. “For under $40, you can instantly refresh your living room or bedroom with vibrant colors or unique patterns.”

Brighten up your home with this set of four brightly hued pillow covers. Made from premium velvet, these 18 by 18-inch covers are soft to the touch and comfortable to lay on. The color block style and elegant piping detail make these pillows a standout decor piece, great for adding instant personality to your sofa, chair, or bed.

Make your space yours. “Adding a few pieces of art or even framed prints can create a focal point in any room,” says Chahl.

Transform any wall in your home into a stunning gallery with this set of 10 white photo frames. The included hanging hardware and easel stands allow you to display your photos on walls or desktops. Made from wood with tempered, shatter-resistant glass fronts, these frames provide clear views while protecting your favorite photos and memories.

Natane Boudreau, founder and interior designer at Studio Boudreau, says: “Swapping out old cabinet knobs and drawer pulls can instantly modernize your kitchen or bathroom.”

Give your kitchen an immediate facelift with these kitchen cabinet handles. These matte black T-bar handles are made from durable stainless steel, ensuring they remain strong and stylish for years to come. Their timeless design complements a variety of decor styles, from farmhouse to modern. The included installation template with measurement lines makes drilling holes accurately a breeze, saving you time and effort.

“Change out harsh overhead lights for softer, more ambient lighting using table lamps or string lights,” advises Boudreau. “This can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.”

Illuminate your outdoor space with these solar string lights, a game-changer for your decor needs. Featuring the latest LED technology, you can switch between color temperatures, all dimmable from 25% to 100% with the included remote control. Whether for family dinners, barbecues, weddings, or camping, this versatile light adds a charming ambiance. Enjoy zero energy bills thanks to its solar power, with a convenient auto on/off feature.

Get creative with your storage, suggests Boudreau. “Wall-mounted shelves provide extra storage and a place to display decor items, making your space look organized and stylish.”

Enhance any room with these stylish and functional five-tier wall mount corner shelves. Ideal for kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, and offices, they offer a chic solution to store and display your items. Made from durable laminate, each shelf holds up to 11 pounds. These shelves are easy to assemble and come with all the necessary hardware.

“Incorporate houseplants to bring life and freshness into your home,” says Boudreau. “They improve air quality and add a touch of nature.”

Don’t stress even if you aren’t much of a green thumb, this snake plant is a resilient indoor plant known for its minimal care requirements. This beautifully potted plant, with sharp, dark green leaves edged in creamy yellow, creates a captivating display. This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and requires watering only once a week.

“For an instant refresh in your living room or bedroom, replace those worn-out throw pillows and blankets with some fresh, stylish new ones,” suggests Rachel Stringer, real estate agent at Raleigh Realty. “Texture and patterns add so much visual interest.”

Wrap yourself in luxurious comfort with this ultra-soft jacquard fleece blanket. Made from microfiber, it offers fluffy, year-round coziness that’s warm yet lightweight, maintaining the ideal balance for snuggling. The checkered pattern adds a touch of modern minimalism to any decor, making it as stylish as it is cozy. The unique dyeing technique keeps the colors vibrant wash after wash.

“When it comes to shelf styling, I always recommend using books, vases, candles, and decorative objects grouped in odd numbers — it's visually more appealing and interesting than even numbers,” Stringer says.

Controlled by a remote, these battery-operated candles offer convenience with a four or eight-hour timer and adjustable brightness. Enjoy the realistic flickering effect without the mess or hazards of traditional candles — no open flame, drips, or smoke. Ideal for homes with kids and pets, these candles create a cozy ambiance suitable for dinner parties, weddings, or everyday decor.

“An area rug can also go a long way in cozying up your living room or bedroom,” says Stringer. “Look for something with patterns, colors, or textures that complement your existing decor.”

This area rug is designed for easy maintenance — simply vacuum as needed or machine wash on cold for a deeper clean. Crafted from faux fur, it features a luxurious pile surface and thick sponge layer for unparalleled comfort without shedding. The solid color design fits seamlessly into any decor style, making it great for bedrooms, living rooms, dorms, and more. With a durable nonslip bottom, it stays securely in place on various flooring types.

“Using attractive storage solutions [eliminates] two birds with one stone — it calms visual clutter while adding some decor interest,” says Stringer. “These baskets are perfect for containing remotes, blankets, you name it — all while looking stylish."

Transform your home with this multifunctional storage basket, offering a large capacity for all your daily necessities. Handcrafted from cotton rope, this basket is soft yet durable, ensuring it won't damage your floors or furniture. Its seamless design and unique colors add a fine Nordic touch to any room, making it a stylish and practical addition to your living room, bedroom, bathroom, or playroom.

“If you're feeling crafty, you can even take the DIY route!” says Stringer. “Making your own wall hangings, decorative jars, custom photo frames and more is so satisfying.”

Preserve your favorite blooms and create lasting memories with this DIY flower press. This complete kit includes everything you need to press flowers and leaves efficiently, thanks to its basswood construction and uniform pressure design. Not only is it a great tool for crafting beautiful art, but it's also an educational resource that is great for science and art classes.

Anh Nguyen, interior design expert, product analyst, and founder of Print My Rug, says: “One of my go-to recommendations is adding floating shelves. Not only are they stylish and modern, but they provide extra storage and display space.”

Nguyen recommends these floating shelves, calling them “a fantastic affordable option.” Featuring five wooden shelves in varying dimensions, these versatile wall shelves are great for displaying pictures, plants, decorations, and more. Crafted from solid paulownia wood with water-based paint, they offer durability without unpleasant odors. With multiple display options and reversible installation, you can personalize your space effortlessly.

“Mirrors are an interior designer's secret weapon for instantly elevating and transforming a space,” says Nguyen. “Not only do they visually expand a room by reflecting light, but they also add depth, dimension, and an airy feeling.”

When it comes to choosing mirrors, Nguyen is a big fan of geometric shapes and unique frames like this hexagonal hanging mirror. Made from sleek metal with a soft velvet back, it features a minimalist geometric shape with a golden edge, making it a chic addition to any room. Ideal for entryways, living rooms, bathrooms, or bedrooms, it also makes a lovely desk accent.

“I have fond memories of working with a client who had an impressive collection of landscape paintings from their travels,” reminisces Nguyen. “By installing the Raifoolly rechargeable picture lights above each framed work, we were able to make their art the true focal point of the living room,” the designer notes. “The adjustable brightness allowed us to create a warm, gallery-like glow that made the colors in the paintings pop. These metal picture lights have a clean, modern aesthetic that complements any style of artwork or decor.”

Easy to install with included screws, this rechargeable picture light is perfect for showcasing wall artwork, dartboards, portraits, and more. Easily adjust the brightness with a long press on the manual switch or use the remote control for convenience. With 150-degree rotatable light tubes, you can direct the light exactly where you need it.

“Use different types of lights,” says Crystal Olenbush, real estate expert at AustinRealEstate.com. “Put lamps in a few spots and also a small salt lamp for a soft glow."

Illuminate your space with the natural beauty of this Himalayan salt lamp, handcrafted from salt crystals mined in the Himalayan Mountains. Once lit, this lamp emits a calming amber glow, creating a serene atmosphere that’s lovely for relaxation or meditation. Each lamp is one-of-a-kind, featuring a beautiful wooden base and a dimmer switch to adjust the brightness to your mood.

Color is key, according to Olenbush. “Add colors with wallpaper or pictures you stick on,” she says. “A splash of color wakes up boring walls.”

This metallic gold wallpaper is an easy way to transform your space, perfect for redoing countertops, upcycling furniture, or adding a luxurious touch to any home improvement project. Its ultra-grip self-adhesive backing makes application effortless — just snip, peel, and apply to any clean, flat surface. The realistic metal-esque texture adds a sophisticated flair to cabinets, drawers, tabletops, and kitchen counters. Made from durable, waterproof vinyl, this wallpaper is easy to clean and designed to withstand wear and tear.

“Switch up couch cushions and pillows with fun covers,” suggests Olenbush. “It's easy and your couch will look new!”

Transform your furniture with these comfortable velvet cushion covers. Crafted from luxurious, stretchy velvet fabric, they are thick, soft, and durable, providing a cozy feel while protecting against daily wear, stains, and pet scratches. Each cover fits a variety of cushion sizes and styles, staying in place with a nonskid elastic bottom. Easy to install and machine washable, these covers offer a quick and stylish refresh for your home decor.

Got a lot of stuff? “Wicker baskets hide junk and look cool doing it,” points out Olenbush.

Elevate your organization game with these handwoven seaweed storage baskets. Available in multiple sizes, each basket features a reinforced wire frame, ensuring durability and allowing for easy stacking. The charming wooden buckle and elastic band keep the lid securely in place, protecting your items from dust and curious pets.

“Beautiful books on the coffee table are pretty to look at and can start chats about what's inside,” says Olenbush.

Ideal for design enthusiasts, this hardcover coffee table book is filled with elegant interiors and expert tips. This luxurious guide by Christiane Lemieux curates insights from the world's top experts in wallpaper, textiles, and interior design, offering a comprehensive education in identifying heirloom-quality pieces. Discover the essence of timeless design with The Finer Things: Timeless Furniture, Textiles, and Details.

“Little lights and night-lights guide your way for cheap,” says Olenbush. “LEDs use less power too.”

Enhance your home's coziness and safety with this auto-on/off decorative night-light. Equipped with a smart light sensor, it automatically turns on at night and off during the day, eliminating the need for manual switching. The adjustable brightness allows you to set the right lighting for any scenario. Energy-efficient with a maximum power consumption of just 1 watt, this plug-in LED night-light is ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, nurseries, and more.

Ryan Fitzgerald, real estate entrepreneur and owner of Raleigh Realty, says, “As for mood lighting, a projector lamp is hard to beat. I have one that casts an ocean scene and it's so relaxing after long days,” he notes. “A client of mine uses a galaxy one in her teenage son's room to encourage calm before bed. She said he went from yelling about sleep to seeing the ‘stars’ as a nightly treat. Little tweaks like that can work wonders in family dynamics.”

Turn your home into a mini planetarium with this three-in-one galaxy projector. Enjoy stunning aurora views and a moving starry sky with 33 light effects and 16 Northern light modes. This projector also features eight soothing white noise options, like ocean waves and forest birds, to help you relax and sleep better. Plus, the built-in Bluetooth speaker lets you play your favorite music, with the lights dancing to the rhythm.