Home Economics 101

Whether it is your very first home, or you're just looking for some ways to spruce up your house, during these economically tough times, it is completely understandable to look for affordable ways to do it. You don't always have to completely remodel or hire an interior designer - you can do so much on your own.

Here are some simple and cheap ways to breathe some new life into your home and make it feel brand new - design on a dime with a seasonal new look.

Brighten up! - One of the simplest things you can do for your house is to buy new light fixtures. It's incredible how big of a difference a new light fixture can have in a home; it can change everything from how bright the room is, to the look and feel of the room. Add some DRAMA, or tone down the feelings! Including decorative lamps in your rooms can change the lighting as well and add a more “warm” feeling to a room, especially moving into the winter months.

Add some spice! Mix it up by mixing up some paint. Splashing some new colors onto your walls some spaces seem bigger and brighter. Change the color scheme of your main living areas by going to your local home decor store and finding a suitable color palette. You will be amazed how much new wall color can change the interior look of a room. Painting IS, and always WILL BE - the cheapest way to transform your space!

Organize, organize, organize. Clean up the clutter by organizing your workbench, kitchen and home office. One way to make your home seem more spacious is by hanging things on the wall. Organize your pots and pans to hang above your kitchen island, or organize your documents and paperwork in a neat wooden boxes to make your office feel relaxing and comfortable.

These tips require some elbow grease, but they all can create a new look for your rooms without breaking the bank.