Affordable Design Changes That Make a Big Impact

1 Don't Neglect the Ceiling

Image Sources: Pieter Estersohn and Kemble Interiors

Don't neglect the ceiling! Paint is an inexpensive way to take advantage of the space above and create some interest; for example, the metallic ceiling shown here brightens the room and gives it a sophisticated polish. In an all-white room, a red ceiling can reflect a warm glow and add a bold splash. Don't be afraid to get creative either — with some painter's tape and a little patience, you can give your ceiling a gingham treatment in a bright color or subdued neutral shade, or you can highlight interesting architectural details.

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2 Make a Lighting Statement

Image Sources: Patrick Cline and Kemble Interiors

Add some drama to your space with an interesting and eclectic light pendant. We love how a bold light fixture can pull together a space and draw the eye up. Remember to pay attention to scale for maximum impact — you may need to experiment with a few different sizes to find one that works. We love this birdcage pendant from Dot & Bo, and World Market always has interesting light fixtures at great price points, like this gold lotus hanging pendant.

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3 Tile the Shower

Image Sources: Patrick Cline and Kemble Interiors

Tile is an inexpensive way to make your shower and entire bathroom feel like an entirely different space. A patterned tile is unexpected and can make your daily shower feel like a spa getaway. We like this patterned tile from Lowe's.

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4 Add a Pop of Color

Image Sources: Patrick Cline and Kemble Interiors

Don't be afraid to embrace color. Accessories are an affordable way to give your space a fresh look. There are tons of inexpensive ways to sneak color into a room — try a grouping of fun objects like the pink potted plants here, a colored lampshade (we love this one and this one from Shades of Light), or a vibrant throw over an ottoman or sofa. Throw pillows are also one of our go-tos for injecting color into a room — The Pillow Studio Shop, Whitlock & Co., and Dot & Bo are a few of our favorite resources for well-priced pillows in a bright assortment of colors.

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5 Go Bold Underfoot

Image Sources: Marco Ricca and Kemble Interiors

Whether you choose a colored or patterned rug or decide to layer things up, you'll help ground your space and connect all elements of the room by doing something interesting on the floor. We love mixing in a graphic pattern, like the rug shown here, in almost any room. This Lulu & Georgia rug offers the same sharp lines and is a fresh twist on a traditional chevron pattern.

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6 Infuse With Whimsy

Image Sources: Patrick Cline and Kemble Interiors

By adding some unexpected pieces to a space, you are not only creating interest, you're also injecting your room with personality and making it a place that represents you. And you don't need to spend a lot to do it — try displaying unique travel mementos or collections in a new way, recovering a chair in a lively fabric, or adding a great piece of art to a room. Those unique touches will be what makes your home feel like your own.

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