Transform your space with these low-cost refreshers

Second bedroom, after: New elements like bright, cheery bedding and colorful toss pillows help make this second bedroom inviting and friendly. (Design Recipes)

Second bedroom, after: New elements like bright, cheery bedding and colorful toss pillows help make this second bedroom inviting and friendly. (Design Recipes)

Whether you are looking to sell or to dwell, there is always room to infuse a fresh, new look into a space that may be perceived as tired, worn or outdated. While a full renovation may be an option, it doesn’t have to be. With a bit of creativity, planning and perhaps a bit of do-it-yourself work, making your home feel inviting and refreshed doesn’t have to break the bank.

WHAT’S WORTH IT? WHAT’S NOT?

It is a common dilemma for many homeowners. Where should you invest your renovation dollars? A good rule of thumb is to invest in areas that may potentially add value, such as upgrading a bathroom or kitchen. Next, look to outdoor areas that can enhance the appearance or curb appeal, such as a new door, fresh siding or enhanced landscaping.

IDEAS FOR QUICK, LOW COST REFRESHERS

First, set a budget. Even a small budget can go a long way with proper planning. The key is to maximize value by selectively choosing to spend money on key items that may be viewed as a valued upgrade, especially as it relates to resale value, should you ever decide to sell your home.

Some ideas for quick low cost refreshers include:

— Replacing a kitchen countertop.

— Repainting cabinets. This is one of the least expensive ways to infuse a fresh modern look into an older kitchen.

— Replacing basic appliances such as a dishwasher or refrigerator. Stainless steel remains the most desirable.

— Installing an inexpensive vinyl tile over an existing floor. A 12-by-24-inch tile tends to be a more modern look, compared to a 10-by-10 inch tile.

— Replace basic, elements such as toilets and faucets in a bathroom. This is a prime example of how a little can go a long way.

The Design Recipes design team was recently asked to implement some low-cost refreshers to help transform a 1950s home located in southern New Jersey.

Here’s some insight into how an outdated home was transformed into one that is now more modern and fresh.

———

LIVING ROOM

Refreshers:

— Slipcover for an existing sofa

Cost: $95

— Toss pillows

Cost: $45

— Wall mirror

Cost: $0 (removed from above a bedroom dresser)

— Artwork

Cost: $125

— Area rug

Cost: $125

— Coffee Table

Cost: $0 (a pair of repurposed bookcases)

— Floor lamp

Cost: $45

KITCHEN

Refreshers:

— New stainless steel dishwasher

Cost: $350

— New stainless refrigerator

Cost: $995

— Repainting of kitchen cabinetry

Cost: $60 per gallon of paint. Approximately six cans used.

— New cabinet hardware and hinges

Cost: $100

— Groutable vinyl tile, 12-by-24 inches

Cost: $1.25 per square foot

BATHROOM

Refreshers:

— Groutable vinyl tile, 12-by-24 inches

Cost: $1.25 per square foot

— New toilet

Cost: $195

— Cabinet with sink

Cost: $285

— New faucet and showerhead

Cost: $155

— Medicine cabinet

Cost: $125.00

MASTER BEDROOM

Refreshers:

— Fresh coat of paint

Cost: $60 per gallon

— Side tables

Cost: $45

Bedding

— Cost: $75

— Table lamp

Cost: $55

— Toss pillows

Cost: $45

— Area rug:

Cost: $95

SECOND BEDROOM

Refreshers:

— Fresh coat of paint

Cost: $60 per gallon

— Headboard

Cost: $65

— Side table

Cost: $25

— Bedding

Cost: $95

— Cotton area rug

Cost: $45

THIRD BEDROOM

Refreshers:

— Fresh coat of paint

Cost: $60 per gallon

— Console table

Cost: $85

— Bedding

Cost: $185

— Table lamp

Cost: $55

— Toss pillows

Cost: $45

———

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at www.cathyhobbs.com .