I’m an interior expert – here’s eight things that are making your home look cheap and how to fix it on a budget

NO ONE wants their home to look cheap or tacky, but times change and trends eventually die.

In 2023 the cost of renovating a home can be expensive but that does mean you need to be stuck in an outdated home.

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We’ve spoken to an interiors expert Sylvia James in collaboration with ConservatoryLand.com to learn eight ways you can jazz up your home on a budget.

A Tired or Messy Front Garden

When you’re walking up to someone’s home, usually the front garden is one of the first things you see. If your garden is messy and untidy it is not gonna make your guests feel welcome.

Sylvia explains: “A well-maintained front garden can make your home look more expensive and inviting. If your front garden is overgrown, dead, or untidy, it can make your home look neglected and cheap.”

“You can easily spruce up your garden by adding some cheap plants, ensuring you choose plants that are appropriate for your climate and location.”

“Lidl often has some great low-cost and easy care options, like large hydrangeas (£9.99), and now is a great time to pick up reduced flowers from local garden centers as it’s the end of the season.”

“Alternatively, if you need to cover a large area at low cost grow from seeds – B&Q has a great seed selection starting from £2 a pack. If you’re an avid gardener, you could even purchase fruit or vegetable seeds and create your vegetable patch where you can grow and harvest your crops”.

Chevron Patterns

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If you’ve got Chevron patterns in your home, get rid of them.

Sylvia says: “Chevron patterns became popular in UK homes around five years ago. However, this design can be overwhelming and distracting if used in large doses. If you have chevron patterns in your home, it may be time to consider replacing them with something less distracting.”

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“They can be visually heavy and make a room feel smaller. They can also be too busy and may compete with other elements in the room.”

If you are looking for a more modern and stylish look, consider replacing your chevron patterns with something else. Subtle gingham or spotty patterns are a classic choice and are widely available as curtains, duvet sets, or cushions.

Using Matching Flatpack Furniture

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Sylvia says: “A room filled with matching flatpack furniture can look cheap and tacky. Flatpack furniture is often mass-produced and lacks any unique design or character. It can also be flimsy and poorly made and may not last long.”

“If you’re on a tight budget, consider buying second-hand furniture instead. Second-hand furniture can be just as stylish and functional as new furniture, and it is often much cheaper. You can find second-hand furniture at charity shops, car boot sales, and online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and eBay.”

“When buying second-hand furniture, be sure to inspect it carefully for any damage. You may also want to have it refinished or upholstered to give it a new look.”

Rattan Décor

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Rattan furniture is yet another trend that is a marker of a cheap home.

Slyvia said: “Some people find that too much rattan can be overwhelming and tacky. If you have a lot of other natural materials in your home, such as wood or stone, however, rattan can be a great way to add a touch of warmth and texture along with similar natural materials like cane and bamboo.

“If you are using rattan furniture, it is important to keep the rest of your décor simple. Too much clutter can make your space feel overwhelming.”

Hanging Unlined Curtains

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Curtains and blinds are essential, but curtain lining is just as important. The lining is a layer of fabric that is sewn to the back of a curtain. It provides several benefits. When choosing your curtains go for one of these three options:

• Privacy: Lining can make it more difficult to see through the curtains, which can provide privacy in bedrooms and other areas where you want to be able to relax without being disturbed.
• Warmth: Lining can help to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This is because it traps heat or cold air between the layers of fabric.
• Durability: Lining can help to protect your curtains from fading, staining, and other damage. This is because it creates a barrier between the outer fabric and the elements.

Old Windows

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Anything that adds light to your home is important and that goes further than lamps. If your windows are old, outdated, or damaged, it may be time to consider replacing them. Older windows can make your home look cheap.

Sylvia says: “The style of your windows should complement the overall style of your home. If you have a traditional home, choose traditional windows. If you have a modern home, choose modern windows. If your windows complement the theme of your home, they will look more aesthetically pleasing and less tacky.

An Old or Worn Out Front Door

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Chances are anyone coming into your home is coming through the front door so don’t forget about it.

The interior expert says: “You can make your home seem much more expensive by simply painting your front door – and it can often be done as a DIY project. Choose a color that ties in well with the overall theme of your home.”

“You also need to ensure it matches up well with your window surrounds. To further improve your entryway, consider adding some potted plants or a hanging basket with some colorful blooms outside your front door. These simple touches can go a long way. Even the smallest of changes can make a big difference.”

Dated Kitchen Hardware

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Updating your kitchen hardware is an effective way of making your kitchen expensive without doing a lot of work.

Sylvia says: “Updating hardware is a very quick and easy way to spruce up your kitchen or bathroom. If your kitchen or bathroom is looking a little old or tired, some new taps or cupboard handles can make a huge difference.”

“Make sure you choose items that tie in well with the rest of the room’s décor. New hardware can also be relatively inexpensive.”