5 Designers Share Their Favorite Budget-Friendly Room Updates

When it comes to refreshing a space on a budget, small, thoughtful changes can make a surprisingly big impact. These quick updates don’t require a full renovation—or a hefty price tag. “There are a lot of things that can be done quickly and inexpensively—just remember, less is always best,” notes Texas interior designer Jena Salmon. The key is being intentional: focusing on texture, color, lighting, and personality-driven accents that bring new energy into a room.

To prove just how easy and effective budget-friendly upgrades can be, we asked five Southern designers to share their go-to tricks for giving a room new life without overspending. From easy lighting swaps to layering textiles, these expert-approved simple updates are impactful ways to help you reimagine your space whether you’re working with $15 or $500.

Tablecloths

“If you have a little larger budget try adding a tablecloth to a side table,” suggests Salmon, who notes Ballard Designs has a great collection. “You can have a custom one made or if you’re crafty, try using a colored duct tape to make the table cloth fit a bit better.”

Chick Blinds

For coastal-inspired designer Amanda Lindroth, her secret is dressing up drapery panels with chick blinds. “They’re so affordable and add that extra air of well-traveled elegance,” she notes. Anytime you can add a layer or secondary texture—not just when it comes to window treatments—it helps elevate a space.

Fresh Paint 

Of course, there’s always paint. “I know you hear it a lot, but paint truly does completely transform a room,” says Salmon. “But…please don’t do an accent wall, either commit [to all the walls] or just paint the trim.” 

“Paint and lighting are two of the best ways to really change the feel of a space when the budget runs tight. A fresh coat of paint instantly breathes new life into a room,” adds Gabriela Eisenhart, Founder and Principal Designer of Silo Studio Design in Atlanta, Georgia. “When the walls are dull and dirty, your home can feel less inviting.”

Updated Lighting 

Fixtures & Bulbs

“Improper lighting can really affect the feel of a room, and your mood,” notes Eisenhart.” If updating your fixtures is not within budget, swap the bulbs to a warmer temperature and install a dimmer switch to control the ambiance.” 

Lampshades

“One of my favorite budget-friendly updates is swapping out lampshades,” adds Atlanta designer Liz Williams. “It’s such a simple change, but a fresh shade in a new shape, color, or fabric can completely transform the look of a lamp—and by extension, the entire room. It’s a small detail that instantly feels intentional and custom.”

Layering

“Overhead lighting alone can leave a room feeling flat, but by layering in table lamps, sconces, or a floor lamp (even an inexpensive one), you create pools of warm light at different levels,” explain Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett of Kobel + Co. “This instantly makes the space feel more intimate, inviting, and chic—and all without a major investment. Think of it as styling with light: a soft glow that transforms both the mood and the look of your room.”

Rugs

Another go-to for Williams is introducing or changing out rugs. “A new rug can redefine the mood of a space, adding texture, warmth, and color without requiring a full redesign,” she says. “Whether layering something vintage for character or choosing a fresh pattern for a modern lift, it’s one of the most impactful and accessible ways to refresh a room.” 

The Kobel + Co duo also suggest low-cost custom rugs. ”Don’t be intimidated by the word custom! A simple, low-investment carpet—like sisal or synthetic sisal—cut to fit your room’s exact dimensions can instantly make the space feel polished, grounded, and intentional without straining your budget,” note the designers. “If you’re craving color or pattern, consider layering a vintage rug on top of your new ‘base layer’. This pairing delivers a rich, finished look at a surprisingly low overall cost.”

Pillows with Personality

“Think of pillows as your room’s wardrobe,” says Kobel + Co. “Invest once in a luxe insert, then treat the covers like outfits—bold one season, neutral the next. A quick swap instantly shifts the mood, giving your space a whole new look without the overhaul.” From shams to throw pillows, this trick works in every space.

Plants and Flowers

“If we are talking low-budget super quick little lifts, I would say flowers or plants,” says Salmon, who recommends placing green plants around your house. “It just adds a fresh inviting look.” She notes bringing in some biophilic design not only is aesthetically pleasing, but also helps filter toxins out of the air. For flowers she recommends heading to Trader Joe’s. “Just grab a few and divide them up, using anything around the house—water glasses, a pitcher, mint julep cups—and place them all around your home,” she says. “I love to have flowers in our home. They just make me smile.”