It’s easy to assume that renovating and sprucing up our homes inevitably means running up huge bills, but this doesn’t have to be the case.
If you’re thinking of refreshing or modernising your home but you’re on a strict budget, then there are numerous easy, affordable fixes that will give any property a new lease of life. Read on for our 5 top tips to modernise your home on a budget.
1. First impressions matter
Tatty-looking windows and doors can really date a home. If your budget can stretch to it, consider replacing with hardwood frames, or on-trend Crittal-style steel ones. If that’s too expensive, repainting in a more contemporary shade will add instant visual appeal – opt for fashionable yet classic hues such as soft grey and pale duck egg greens and blues.
If the exterior of your house looks dirty, then hire or buy a pressure washer to blast away dirt. They can also be used to clean patios or driveways, and is a simple yet effective way of modernising your home.
2. Give your kitchen a facelift
The kitchen is typically the centrepiece of most homes but the price of a brand-new one can cost thousands of pounds. Instead, simple, superficial tweaks such as replacing your cabinet handles and repainting units can make previously old-fashioned spaces look fresh and clean.
Annie Sloan offer a range of pretty shades that can be used to give cupboards a new lease of life – try this step-by-step guide for inspiration. And don’t forget to declutter and tidy your surfaces, this can make a huge difference to feel and usability of your kitchen. As we said, the kitchen is the centrepiece of the house, so should be at the top of the list for areas to modernise and showcase your home in the best light.
3. Revamp your bathroom
Bathrooms are often one of the last rooms in a house to be updated and, if your budget doesn’t stretch to a complete overhaul, there are some easy cosmetic tweaks you can make.
Dirty fixtures are never appealing so give tiles and grouting a deep clean and scour lime scale off the toilet, bathtub and sink. Replacing accessories like shower curtains, towels and even toilet seats can make a big visual impact. Plus, by simply freshening up your paintwork and hiding your toiletries from view, you can easily create a more streamlined aesthetic which will modernise your home with very little cost.
4. Hide your clutter
Numerous ornaments, pictures, accessories, magazines – clutter – can instantly make a home feel out-dated and uninviting. If you’re planning to move home, consider packing up some of your belongings early to really showcase the space.
If your available space is limited, multi-functional furniture and hidden storage is a simple way to declutter your home and give your space a modern feel. Installing generous storage is a quick and easy way to make your home feel clean and decluttered, which will also make it more appealing to prospective buyers if you are preparing your house for sale.
Built-in wardrobes and cupboards are the most obvious solution, but it also pays to be creative – from floating shelves to using the space under your staircase!
5. Upgrade your lighting
Clever lighting can transform and modernise a home, from turning dingy spaces warm and cosy to bringing out the best in your colour scheme or making a room appear larger.
Considered lighting choices can also add aesthetic appeal. Whether that’s a statement pendant lamp above a kitchen island, hidden spotlights or pretty table lamps that brighten up gloomy corners, you can create character and modernise every room in minutes!
These are just a few great tips to modernise your home. Need more inspiration? Get in touch with our great team!
