Color drench a room
Color drenching is a technique that involves painting walls, trim, doors and sometimes even the ceiling the same hue (while varying the paint sheens) to create a bold, high-end look. Adding DIY wall molding—like board and batten or picture frame molding—also can add interest without a huge investment.
Upgrade kitchen and bathroom hardware
Want to refresh your kitchen or bathroom but don’t have the budget for a full renovation? Swapping out old hardware and updating knobs, pulls, faucets or towel bars is a low-lift way to make your kitchen or bathroom better reflect your personal style—whether you’re aiming for a sleek, modern look or something with more character.
Texturize and accessorize
Want to bring more warmth and personality into your home? Try updating your room’s textiles and accessories. Refreshing throw pillows, bedding, curtains or adding an area rug brings texture, color and personality without the investment of a full redesign. Mix fabrics, colors and patterns to create a look that feels cohesive and uniquely yours.
Update old light fixtures
Lighting has a bigger impact on your space than you might think. Updating an outdated overhead light fixture with something that better reflects your taste instantly shifts the mood and style of the whole room. New light bulbs also can go a long way. Swap out bright white bulbs for warm white or Edison bulbs for a cozier atmosphere.
—Written by Bella Norcross
Did you know?
You can be strategic by using charitable bunching
Generosity doesn’t have to stop at the heart; it also can be tax-smart. Charitable bunching—combining several years of donations into one tax year—can push your deductions above the standard threshold so you can itemize. A donor-advised fund makes it seamless. You contribute a lump sum, claim the deduction, then grant to your favorite causes on your own timeline.
Discover how
Defining finance: Rebalancing
When you build an investment portfolio, you usually start with a target allocation—a predetermined percentage mix of asset classes, such as stocks, bonds and cash. Over time, some investments may grow faster than others and can cause a shift in your original allocation.