We’re back with a fresh, affordable living room makeover. Here’s Kelli’s story:
I’m excited to share a before-and-after! My husband and I sold our house a few months ago but didn’t have another place lined up. Fortunately, his grandmother had an empty apartment above her house that we could move into rent-free. The space hadn’t been rented for years and felt very dark…
…so our first priority was to brighten the dark paneling in the living room to make it feel more like home. We chose Glidden’s White Fog, inspired by mood boards featuring a pale blue tone as the main wall color. My mother-in-law, who is very creative, took inspiration from a Design Star episode where large leaves were painted on a wall. That idea felt like the perfect finishing touch for this blank canvas.
We worked on a tight budget, sourcing items from Old Time Pottery, Target, TJ Maxx, and JC Penney. The whole transformation was inexpensive but impactful, and we’re thrilled with the result. I hope you like it, too! – Kelli
What a fabulous transformation—thank you, Kelli, for sharing! It’s amazing how much a fresh coat of paint can change a room. Soft, textured furnishings like the cozy rug and the warm table lamp help make the space feel brighter and more inviting. Painting the paneling also highlights the beautiful wood floor that was easy to miss in the “before” photo.
Tips from this makeover you can use at home:
- Start by choosing a light, neutral paint to instantly open up a dark room.
- Use accent artwork or simple wall motifs—like large leaf shapes—to add personality without clutter.
- Layer soft textures (rugs, throw pillows, and a table lamp) to create warmth and depth.
- Shop discount stores and seasonal sales for budget-friendly decor that still looks polished.
- Don’t overlook floors—painting walls in a lighter tone can draw attention to existing wood or tile and make it a feature.
This small-budget renovation demonstrates that thoughtful paint choices and a few well-placed decor pieces can completely transform a space. Whether you’re moving into a temporary rental or refreshing a longtime room, these low-cost strategies deliver big visual impact.