How to Refresh Your Living Room on a Budget (Under $50!)

Introduction:

Your living room should be a place of comfort and peace, a space where you can relax and feel at ease. Post separation, it’s not always easy to get inspired about reclaiming the space and creating that sense of calm. The good news? You don’t need a big budget or a major renovation to create a fresh, welcoming space. In fact, with a few simple changes and a budget of $50 or less, you can breathe new life into your living room and it might even be fun!

Step 1: Start with a Declutter Reset (10 minutes)

Why it matters: A cluttered space can add to stress and make it hard to relax. Start small - knowing it’s not about perfection; it’s about creating breathing room.

• Set a timer for 10 minutes and grab a laundry basket or box.
• Quickly gather anything that doesn’t belong in the living room (shoes, toys, random clutter) and put it aside.
• Bonus tip: Get the kids involved by turning it into a game—who can clear their area the fastest?

Step 2: Rearrange for a Fresh Look (15 minutes)

No new furniture? No problem. A new layout can completely change the feel of a room:

• Try moving your sofa to a new spot, angling a chair, or swapping side tables.
• Focus on creating a “cozy zone” by positioning furniture closer together—this makes the space feel more inviting.
• Hack: If you’re working with a small space, pull furniture a few inches away from the wall to create the illusion of more depth.

Step 3: Bring in Color with Throw Pillows & Blankets (5 minutes)

Affordable Fix: Head to a local discount store (like Target or Walmart) for budget-friendly throw pillows or blankets ($10–$15 each).

• Choose neutral tones for versatility or bold colors for a pop of personality.
• Mix and match textures—velvet, knit, and linen add interest without overwhelming the space.
• Budget tip: If new pillows are out of budget, buy inexpensive pillow covers instead of new pillows!

Step 4: DIY Artwork or Wall Décor (10 minutes)

If blank walls are making the room feel unfinished, try this:

• Frame free printables (you can find them on Pinterest).
• Let your kids create their own art—abstract finger-painting can look surprisingly modern when framed!
• Hang a few favorite family photos in a gallery wall pattern using inexpensive frames from a dollar store.

Step 5: Add Warmth with Lighting (5 minutes)

Soft, warm lighting makes a space feel more comfortable:

• Swap out harsh white bulbs for soft white or warm amber ones.
• Add string lights or battery-operated candles for cozy, stress-free vibes.
• Hack: Use adhesive hooks to hang string lights without damaging walls!

Total Cost: $50

Throw pillows & blankets – $30
Printable art + frames – $10
Warm bulbs – $5
String lights – $5

Wrap-Up:

Refreshing your living room doesn’t need to feel like a massive project. Small changes, like a new layout and cozy lighting, can make a big difference in how you feel in your space. Start with one step, and build from there. You’ve got this! 

Let's get to work!

© Kaitlyn Jorgensen