Refreshing Your Home for the New Year: Budget Tips from Interior Designers

Ever wondered how interior designers give their own homes a refreshing makeover for the New Year? Many of us seek budget-friendly ways to update our spaces without breaking the bank. I spoke to five talented interior designers who shared their top tips for updating their homes at the start of 2026. Here’s a collection of seven smart strategies to invigorate your living space without significant spending.

1. Swap Out Soft Furnishings

One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into your home is by changing soft furnishings like cushions and throws. According to Gemma Samuels, founder of Ankka design studio, opting for seasonal colors and textures can significantly enhance your living environment. “Textiles are where I’m most likely to make small seasonal updates," she notes. Swapping cushion covers or rotating rugs between rooms can create a refreshing feel without the need for permanent changes. With January sales in full swing, it’s an excellent time to find great deals on new cushions and throws.

Shopping Suggestion:

Look for textured, lighter materials to counteract the heaviness of winter. Velvet cushions are a luxurious but affordable option widely available this season.

2. Reupholster Tired Seating

The beginning of the year is perfect for tackling easy DIY projects, and reupholstering seating is among Holly Lamont’s favorite methods for refreshing her space. “Updating an existing piece can be far more sustainable than buying new,” she explains. A footstool or a dining chair serves as an excellent starting point if you’re new to reupholstery. This method allows for creativity in fabric choices, enhancing your decor without excessive expenditure.

Practical Tip:

Choose bold patterns or bright colors to bring a touch of personality to your space.

3. Update Your Space with Paint

A fresh coat of paint can transform a room more than you might think. Emma Deterding, founder of Kelling Designs, emphasizes the effect painting can have: “Applying a fresh coat or touching up scuffed walls instantly brightens a space.” You don’t need to restrict yourself to wall paint—think about adding color to the skirting boards or other wooden elements to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.

Color Suggestion:

Light and subtle hues can contribute to a calming environment, while bolder colors can make a statement.

4. Edit What’s on Show

One of the most budget-friendly strategies is to declutter and edit what’s already in your home. Lucy Van der Gucht urges homeowners to embrace simplicity by removing around a third of displayed items. “When shelves are styled with intention, a home instantly feels calmer and more considered,” she advises. This simple exercise can give your home a fresh look and create a beautifully curated space.

Decluttering Tip:

Evaluate what items are essential and which ones can be stored away or donated to create more open space.

5. Mix Things Up with New Lampshades

Another effective tactic for a quick refresh is swapping out lampshades. Emma suggests that updating lampshades can really alter the ambiance of a room. “Choose colors, patterns, and textures that complement your existing decor,” she says. A new lampshade can breathe new life into your lighting, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Purchase Idea:

A patterned lampshade could inject vibrancy into a minimalist space, while a subtle shade might suit a more traditional aesthetic.

6. Rethink Your Art Display

Revamping your art display doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your collection. Instead, Emma recommends rotating existing pieces or reframing them for a fresh perspective. “Creating a gallery grouping of new findings can add wow-factor at minimal cost,” she notes. Whether it’s artwork or photographs, a little change can invigorate your walls and bring a new vibe to your space.

Decorating Tip:

Consider using clip frames or trendy hanging mechanisms to allow for easy swapping of artwork around your home.

7. Rearrange Your Furniture

One of the most underrated yet impactful changes you can make is rearranging your furniture. According to Gemma, altering the layout can completely change how a room feels: “If you haven’t moved your furniture in a few years, your room probably isn’t working as hard as it could,” she explains. Experimenting with different arrangements can result in a more functional use of space.

Practical Tip:

Try moving larger pieces closer to windows for better light or grouping furniture to create conversational zones.

As the New Year unfolds, consider these budget-friendly suggestions to refresh your home, making it a welcoming haven for the months to come. Each design choice—from swapping soft furnishings to rethinking layout—can create a space that resonates with warmth and intention.