Living in the same place for a while now? It’s understandable you might be itching for a change of scenery. But, with the UK housing market feeling the squeeze, moving home may well be off the agenda. So too is spending thousands on a massive renovation project. No problem though – because there are lots of ways to modernise where you live without breaking the bank.

Why add modern features to a home?

The reasons for adding some more modern features to your home are always going to be yours alone. There are, however, some familiar motives when it comes to what drives homeowners to spruce the place up. And the first is simply about giving the home a fresh new look.

Of course, there can be other reasons too. For some homeowners, it’s about making their home more attractive to potential buyers in the future using the latest tech. Others, meanwhile, might live in an older home that’s been waiting a long time to take its place in the 21st century.

So, what are the features and upgrades you can achieve on a budget?

Ideas and inspiration for your home

You might be surprised, but choosing the right furniture can transform your home into a chic and modern space without breaking your budget. There are furniture pieces that usher in refreshing aesthetics with their interesting designs and material. Consider a stylish and comfortable modular sofa to adorn your living room. The beauty of this modern furniture is that it allows you to update the look of your space by interchanging the modules at any time. You don’t have to buy another piece every time you have the urge to overhaul your living space.

Create a TV wall

TV or media walls have come surging into fashion in recent times. It’s a great solution for hiding media cables and speakers away, while putting your television centre-stage of the living area. It can be achieved pretty easily and cheaply too. Wooden boards can create the main frame, while cutting out plastic sheets like these from RS is ideal for creating small windows in your cabinets.

Updated kitchen

The kitchen is at the heart of many homes. It’s tempting to think only a complete – and costly – renovation can do anything to breathe new life into it. Yet, you’d be wrong. You can get a pretty nifty result when you sand down wooden cabinet doors and give them a fresh coat of paint. You can add bits and pieces like under-lighting and modern cupboard handles too.

Refreshed decor

A sure-fire way to make your personal mark on a home is in the décor. Any room, any colour, any tastes – it’s your home after all. The possibilities are endless too. From the soft furnishings in your lounge to a complete makeover for the bedroom, none of it needs to cost the earth. You can almost guarantee a brilliant finish with paint, stencils, photo frames, cushions, and more.

Lights and mirrors

The right amount of light can do wonders for an interior space. Your home is no different. When it comes to natural light, think about using a simple mirror to maximise its reach. If the lighting could do with a helping hand, new light fittings or lamps can create a beautiful ambience. You may also want to consider smart light bulbs for that extra slice of modernity.

Emily Henderson​

Emily Henderson​

With a Master’s degree in Architecture, Emily Henderson has been a guiding light in renovation and design. She is a celebrated writer and blogger transforming spaces for over a decade. Her journey in the field began at a renowned design firm, where she polished her skills. Her career path was pivotal when she became a leading architectural firm designer. She started sharing her expertise with many readers, focusing on sustainable and innovative design solutions. And she enjoys gardening and DIY home projects during her leisure time.

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