How to Redo a Family Room on a Budget

[Lori Baker]

A family room can take a beating over time because it is one of the
most used rooms in the house. If your family room can use a little
TLC, but you need to stay on a budget, incorporate a few of these tips
and make the room as welcoming as ever.
Freshen Up A new coat of paint will make the family room look
spacious, bright and new again. Choose a cool pastel like light blue,
green or yellow or go with a neutral shade that will let your
furniture and accessories steal the show. If you're not up for
repainting the entire room, try painting one wall in a slightly deeper
accent color. Or, just try washing the walls to remove grime and
fingerprints and make the whole room look brighter. Typically the
areas around doorways become soiled. Touch up wood trim for a clean
fresh look that you can achieve in record time.
Make furniture and rugs look new again with a thorough vacuuming and
steam cleaning. If furniture is looking worn, slip covers are a budget-
friendly option, especially when accented with colorful throw pillows.
Budget Friendly Window Treatments A casual look is right at home in a
family room and you can pass on fussy or expensive window treatments
without sacrificing style. If you don't need treatments to block
sunlight or add privacy, windows can go bare or be minimally dressed.
Window valances are inexpensive and can be mounted directly inside the
window frame on tension rods that can be picked up at a discount store
for a dollar or two apiece. If you need privacy or light control,
install roll up shades underneath the valances and draw them down when
needed. Discount, closeout stores and home improvement stores have a
good selection of blinds, shades, swags, valances and curtain panels
at terrific prices.
Accessorize on a Budget Accessories make the room but you don't have
to buy everything at a premium price. ? Don't overlook the power of
garage sales, flea markets, antique stores, resale shops and discount
stores when shopping for accessories. Old plates that can be hung on a
wall, wall and mantle clocks, framed mirrors and art, baskets, wall
shelves, collectibles, end tables, bookshelves, lamps and area rugs
are just a few things that you can pick up for just a few dollars. ?
When shopping retail, wait for sales and specials. Sign up for email
alerts that let you know when the sales are coming and print out
special coupons. ? Add style in affordable doses: Lamp shades are
cheaper than new lamps, and throw cushions and floor cushions inject
new style at a fraction of the cost of new furniture. Candles are a
very inexpensive accessory and nothing says welcome like a vase of
fresh flowers. Cut some for free from your garden or pick up an
inexpensive bouquet at a supermarket or farmer's market for an
affordable pick-me-up. ? Bring new life to an old ceiling fan. Remove
and wash the blades, lightly sand them, and wash and dry them again.
Roll on acrylic latex paint in a neutral shade. Let it dry thoroughly
then add a slightly deeper or lighter color with a sea sponge. You'll
get an upscale stone finish at a fraction of the price.