7 Simple Home Updates in 2022 Without Blowing the Budget

The health crisis compelled us to rethink how we regard our homes: as a sanctuary. A place to nurture us, especially when we have to spend more time indoors, our home needs T-L-C too. Of course, most of us want to improve our sanctuary, but the pandemic has also drained our finances.

So what updates can you do this 2022 without breaking the bank? This simple home updates list will give you an idea.

1) Create an open space

Homebuyers’ #1 priority is an open layout. This trend has been going on since the 2000s. Formally divided rooms seem out of style nowadays. Instead, people want a space where they can maximize interactions, ditching any structural obstructions if possible.

If tearing down the inner walls is not an option, there’s a workaround. Push furnishings, particularly bulky furniture pieces, to the walls. Move the furniture until you find the right placements that give the airiest look and feel without spending a penny.

Try putting a mirror opposite the windows if possible. This gives an illusion of more space as it reflects light into the room. This is important for a condominium in Makati where space is limited. What’s more, mirrors require a minimal investment.

2) Add a new lighting

Light brings life to any room. Poorly lit areas tend to be darker and more cramped. A couple of floor lamps can do wonders on corners. Or, you can remove the outdated lighting systems and replace them with modern-looking ones.

Better yet, layer the lighting on rooms with no windows but where family members linger. Plenty of bright lights makes the space come more alive. But, of course, the costs will also depend on the number of lighting fixtures that need replacement or you want to add.

3) Change pulls and handles

Certain areas in the home look more dated than expected due to worn-out cabinet handles and drawer pulls. An undeniably timeless and inexpensive update is to replace old handles and knobs.

Choices are endless, but be sure to pick those that complement the overall interior design. For example, a modern kitchen would require shiny stainless steel handles. On the other hand, if you are looking for an eclectic twist, choose vintage pulls and knobs.

4) Install new window treatment

Windows are often overlooked. However, if you want instant decor updates, dress up windows instead. This is a versatile option, and it suits varying styles and tastes. For instance, you may opt for window panels, geometric patterned curtains, white sheers, or bamboo shades.

Take a cue from what’s already there in the room before you buy curtain sets or panels. The easiest way to do this is to either match the colors of the curtains with the wall colors or the colors of the scenery. For example, pick green for mountain view, blue for ocean view, or earthy colors if you are looking out to the front yard of your lot for sale in Cavite.

5) Spruce up the bathroom

Bathrooms get drab, dull, and dirty quickly. You need not tear down walls, sinks, or cabinets, though, to make it look new. Sometimes, a deep clean will do. While at it, always tame the clutter一the simplest thing you can do for a fresh-looking bathroom.

However, if you want to introduce new elements, survey its entirety to know which you can change. It could be the faucets, knobs, light fixtures, or even shower curtains, bath towels, or bathroom mats or rags. Bring in new scents such as herbal, citrusy, floral soaps, sprays, or even candles.

You may also add a plant or two that thrives more in moist environments. Adding some greens brings life to your bathroom, more so if it doesn’t get natural light.

If you want a more ‘brand new’ bathroom, painting the walls will do. But, of course, white never goes out of style. However, if it’s already white, you may choose to put more creme, powder blue, pastel blue, navy blue, hunter green, yellow or gray.

6) Add removable wallpapers

Wallpapers are getting more sophisticated. What’s more, there are easy-to-install yet removable options. So again, the choices abound.

You can also be experimental with this one, putting up different patterns room by room. For example, even in the living room, you may choose a floral pattern for one wall and a plain for another.

Alternatively, you may take the dimensions of the walls and have a design or pattern customized for you. Online, there are a plethora of customized wallpaper providers.

7) Install a stair runner

Stairs are commonly overlooked as well. Stair runners are surely underappreciated despite lending character and adding unexpected sass to the staircase. They also absorb noise, especially if the stairs are made from hardwood. Not to mention they provide a comfortable texture underfoot.

Options include wool, carpet, and nylon stair runners, which may be plain or styled. While they may come cheap, they are durable and provide a high-end look to your steps.

Yes, home updates need not be costly. Your goal is to introduce updates where they are necessary. And yes, it pays to understand the overall design and what you want to achieve with the updates before you implement them.