Home improvement doesn’t have to mean big renovations or spending a fortune. Sometimes, the smallest changes can make the biggest impact—and they don’t need to cost an arm and a leg. I’ve always loved finding clever ways to make my space feel fresh and inviting without breaking the bank. With just £20 or less, you can make meaningful upgrades that add comfort, style, and even value to your home. Whether you’re renting, owning, or just sprucing things up, these ideas are practical and affordable. Here are 24 ways to elevate your living space without feeling the pinch.
1. Add Stick-On Wall Hooks for Instant Organization
Stick-on wall hooks are a game-changer for decluttering your space. Use them to hang keys, coats, or even lightweight kitchen tools. They’re especially great for renters since they don’t damage walls and can be removed easily. Plus, they come in stylish designs that blend with your decor.
2. Install LED Strip Lights for a Modern Touch
LED strip lights are an inexpensive way to bring ambiance to any room. You can use them under cabinets, behind your TV, or along shelves for a soft glow. They’re energy-efficient and easy to install, giving your home a cozy, modern vibe.
3. Replace Old Cabinet Handles with Trendy Ones
Swapping out dated cabinet hardware is a quick way to refresh your kitchen or bathroom. Look for stylish handles or knobs in metal finishes like brass or matte black. You’ll be surprised at how this simple change transforms the space.
4. Use Removable Wallpaper to Transform Small Spaces
If you’ve got a boring nook or an uninspired accent wall, try removable wallpaper. It’s easy to apply and doesn’t require a commitment. Choose a fun pattern to create a statement that’s as easy to remove as it is to install.
5. Get a New Doormat to Boost Curb Appeal
A fresh doormat can do wonders for the entrance of your home. Whether you choose a quirky design or a classic look, it sets the tone for anyone walking in. It’s a simple, budget-friendly way to enhance your home’s first impression.
6. Frame Your Favorite Art or Photos for a Personal Touch
Printing and framing photos or art you love can instantly make your home feel more “you.” Affordable frames are available in a variety of styles, and you can even print free art online to save even more.
7. Upgrade Your Shower Head for a Spa-Like Experience
An upgraded shower head doesn’t have to be pricey. Look for one with multiple settings or a rainfall option. It’s an affordable way to make your bathroom feel more luxurious.
8. Plant Low-Maintenance Greenery for Freshness
Houseplants like succulents or pothos are affordable and add a pop of color and life to your home. They also help purify the air, making your space healthier. If you’re new to plants, pick up a pot and soil, and you’re set!
9. Add Stick-On Window Frosting for Privacy
If you’ve got windows that lack privacy, stick-on window frosting is a cheap and effective solution. It’s easy to apply and lets in light while obscuring the view from outside.
10. Buy a Cozy Throw Blanket for Your Living Room
A new throw blanket can add warmth and texture to your space. Pick one in a bold color or pattern to make a statement, or stick to soft neutrals for a calming vibe.
11. Upgrade Light Switch Covers for a Sleek Look
Plain white light switch covers can make your home feel dated. Swap them out for trendy metal or decorative options. It’s a subtle change that makes a surprising difference.
12. Hang a Mirror to Make Your Space Feel Bigger
Mirrors reflect light and make rooms feel more spacious. Look for a small or medium-sized mirror that fits within your budget and adds both style and function to your space.
13. Swap Out Old Shower Curtains for a Trendy Design
An outdated shower curtain can drag down your bathroom’s vibe. A fresh curtain in a stylish print or solid color can make it feel brand new.
14. Line Your Drawers with Pretty Contact Paper
Drawer liners are a small detail that can bring you joy every time you open a drawer. Choose a pattern you love, and your storage will instantly feel more put-together.
15. Try Peel-and-Stick Tiles for a Quick Backsplash
Peel-and-stick tiles are an affordable and renter-friendly way to create a backsplash. They’re easy to install and can mimic the look of real tile without the hefty cost.
16. Use Motion-Sensing Night Lights for Safety
Motion-sensing night lights are practical and affordable. They’re perfect for lighting up dark hallways or bathrooms at night and add a touch of convenience to your home.
17. Add Floating Shelves for Stylish Storage
Floating shelves are an affordable way to display books, plants, or decor. Look for budget-friendly options that are easy to install and instantly make your walls more functional.
18. Replace Your Old Bath Mat for Extra Comfort
A fresh bath mat can add a touch of luxury to your bathroom. Choose one with a plush feel or quick-dry material to improve both function and style.
19. Add Battery-Operated Puck Lights to Dim Spaces
Puck lights are a fantastic solution for dim corners or closets. They’re battery-operated and often come with adhesive backing, so no drilling is needed.
20. Use Decorative Storage Bins to Tidy Up
Clutter can make a space feel chaotic, but decorative storage bins hide the mess in style. Look for affordable options in colors or patterns that match your decor.
21. Hang Curtains Higher for an Illusion of Height
Raising your curtain rods a few inches above the window frame makes your ceilings look taller. Affordable curtain panels or rods can give the room an upgraded feel.
22. Update Outlet Covers for a Subtle Refresh
Old, discolored outlet covers can be swapped out for sleek, modern ones on a budget. It’s a quick fix that can instantly make your home feel cleaner and more polished.
23. Try Scented Candles for a Cozy Atmosphere
Never underestimate the power of scent. A few affordable candles in relaxing or seasonal scents can make your space feel cozier and more inviting.
24. Use Over-The-Door Hooks for Extra Storage
Over-the-door hooks are perfect for organizing towels, bags, or jackets without taking up space. They’re inexpensive and great for maximizing storage in small areas.
Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
