Are you hoping to update your home but a renovation is not in the budget right now or you simply aren’t ready to take that step? Good news, today’s post is all about how to update spaces that are outdated (or just not your style) without renovating. Since these tips can be very affordable, they are worth doing even if they are temporary (i.e. if you are planning to renovate in the future) since they will help you enjoy your space more in the meantime. These tips also work well if you are renting and unable to make changes that cannot be easily reversed. 

1. Paint

Inspiration Photo: The Everygirl 

Paint is the easiest way to make a big impact on a small budget. A fresh coat of paint on the walls, ceiling and baseboards can instantly freshen up a space. If your kitchen is outdated or not your style, you can make it yours without renovating by painting the cabinets. Depending on the finishes, you may also be able to paint other elements like the backsplash. A fresh coat of paint can also transform bathroom vanities, staircase banisters, built-ins, wall paneling, etc. 

2. Repetition 

Inspiration Photo: Amber Lewis Interiors 

If you have, for example, floors in a stain you don’t love, you may be tempted to go in a totally different direction with your furniture and decor. Sometimes this can bring even more attention to the floors because now they stand out as the only element in that shade. If you repeat that wood stain in a small way elsewhere in the space (e.g. small side table, wooden bowl, picture frame) the floors will suddenly look more intentional and blend in with your decor. 

3. Affordable Alternatives

Inspiration Photo: Etsy

For parts of your home that are more challenging to paint like countertops and tiles, look for alternatives like peel & stick paper or tiles. There are countless options on Etsy and other online retailers. If you are looking for something more durable and long lasting (e.g. for a kitchen counter) opt for a laminate countertop (in a simple finish that most closely resembles a natural material). 

4. Light Fixtures

Inspiration Photo: Magnolia 

New light fixtures can instantly modernize a space and help incorporate your personal style. We don’t always realize how much of an impact a light fixture is making (e.g. how much it is dating our space or changing the overall feel) until we make the switch. Lighting can be very affordable (e.g. from stores like Ikea, Home Depot) so this is a great first step.

5. Hardware

Inspiration Photo: Wayfair

Changing hardware – like the knobs on kitchen cabinets or pulls on a bathroom vanity – is an easy and affordable way to update your space and make it seem like you renovated. Having hardware that feels current and matches your style (instead of worn or outdated hardware) can make your space feel new again. 

6. Wall Plates 

Inspiration Photo: Anthropologie 

Changing your wall plates (e.g. outlet plates, light switch plates) is affordable and easy yet it often goes unnoticed unless someone goes through a renovation. Although it is a small change, this subtle difference will help make your space look new and clean. It will especially make a difference if your existing plates were outdated, discoloured, etc. as often happens over the years. 

7. Large Area Rugs

Photo Inspiration: Chris Loves Julia 

If you don’t love your flooring (whether it feels outdated or it’s not the style you’re going for) add a large area rug to conceal some of it. This can work on wooden flooring in a living room, tile in a kitchen (e.g. with a runner in front of the sink) and even on top of wall-to-wall carpet (e.g. adding a cute rug in a nursery over not-so-cute carpet). There are so many great options for rugs so you will be sure to find something that brightens up your space – no tools or renovation needed. 

8. Elevate Your Space by Working With It

Inspiration Photo: Studio McGee

Work with your space, not against it. If the hard finishes in your home feel outdated and you bring in all modern decor, it could bring more attention to the outdated parts of your home. Instead, try mixing your preferred style with the current style of your home. For example, if your space is traditional but you like contemporary, try transitional style. This combines traditional and contemporary styles and is very popular right now for its warm and classic yet modern feel. It will help any traditional or outdated elements blend in while still ensuring that your home feels current and fresh. 

What change have you made to your space to update without renovating? Let us know in the comments! 

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