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This week’s favorite finds are all about small upgrades that make a big impact.
I’m sharing a few of my go-to updates that can dramatically enhance the look and feel of a space without requiring a full renovation. These are the kinds of changes that support larger home goals and fit perfectly into a well-thought-out plan.
With all of these items, you can choose to save or splurge and that’s where planning really comes in.
Save if you’re working toward a statement piece, or opt for a budget-friendly swap so you can splurge elsewhere. Both approaches are valid and should align with your overall goals and budget.
Here are a few simple swaps I always recommend to homeowners.
Lighting
Lighting is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. Consider swapping out pendant lights over a kitchen island, adding battery-operated sconces flanking artwork, updating bathroom vanity lighting, installing a statement chandelier in an entry, living room, or bedroom, or simply layering with lamps.
One of my favorite lighting upgrades is replacing standard can lighting. We did this in our own home, and the difference was dramatic. Lighting affects mood more than we realize, which is why it’s always a top priority on my list of recommendations. I also share a step-by-step guide for updating can lighting here if you’re considering this upgrade.
Cabinet and Interior Door Hardware
Hardware is a small detail that’s often overlooked, but it can make a huge difference. You can find great options at budget-friendly price points, or go more high-end for a designer feel. My advice is to save on hardware in low-traffic areas, but invest in heavier-duty pieces for kitchens and other high-use spaces.
Always measure cabinet hardware holes center to center before purchasing. And if you’re refinishing cabinets, filling and redrilling holes is a great option because it allows you to choose any size hardware you want. You aren’t restricted to the hardware holes the cabinets already have. Mixing hardware sizes across cabinets, or even mixing pulls and knobs throughout your cabinetry, creates a more curated, custom look.
Also, don’t forget about swapping builder-grade doorknobs for something more unique and elevated. This is another super easy way to add a little pop of beauty to your home.
Plumbing Fixtures
Think of plumbing fixtures as jewelry for your home. Faucets and fixtures can instantly elevate kitchens, bathrooms, butler’s pantries, and beyond. Don’t be afraid to mix metal finishes. Mixing metal finishes that complement one another rather than matching everything creates a curated, intentional look.
Paint
Paint is one of the easiest ways to transform any space and is easily one of my favorites because it’s not permanent. It can completely change the look and feel of any room, whether you decide to color-drench walls and ceilings for some drama, use one color throughout for a monochromatic, cohesive look, or give each room its own moment while still maintaining flow.
Wallpaper
Wallpaper is my personal favorite. The options are endless, and it’s an incredible way to add personality. Use it on an accent wall, wrap an entire powder bathroom, or add interest behind built-ins. There’s truly something for every style.
Curtains/Window Treatments
And last but not least are window treatments. This is an area that is often overlooked in a home, but it has a major impact. Proper placement is key when hanging curtains. You will want your curtains to hang as high as possible (ideally 1″ to 3″ below the ceiling) and let them “kiss” the floor for a polished look. To learn more about how to hang curtains and make them look expensive, read the blog post here.
Window treatments can be a splurge, but there are also so many beautiful affordable options available. With so many fabrics, textures, and colors to choose from, they add warmth and depth to any space. You can layer curtains with Roma or roller shades, or let them stand alone for a dramatic statement. It all depends on what mood you want to create for the room.
The best home updates aren’t always the biggest ones. Sometimes changing a light fixture, swapping out hardware, adding wallpaper, or finally hanging the right window treatments is enough to make a space feel completely different.
The key is choosing updates that support the bigger vision you have for your home rather than making changes just for the sake of making them. Start with the spaces that matter most, think about where you want to save and where you’d rather splurge, and let each small decision move you a little closer to a home that feels intentional, finished, and completely your own.
Want to Make Your Room Feel More Finished?
Small upgrades can make a big difference, but it’s often the layers you add afterward that really bring a space together. My free Room Styling Essentials Checklist walks you through the finishing details designers use, like lighting, textiles, greenery, artwork, books, and accessories to help a room feel intentional, warm, and complete.
Download the free checklist and use it as a guide the next time you’re refreshing a space.
If you loved this blog post, be sure to check out these related posts:
How-To Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets Like A Pro!
7 Easy Ways to Update Your Kitchen On A Budget
How to Make Curtains Look Expensive: 6 Designer Secrets
5 Things To Keep In Mind When Choosing An Interior Paint Color
Update Your Old Can Lights With These Easy, Modern LED Steps
