When you are working on a tight budget, you may end up having to buy a home that requires a little work. There are plenty of great homes out there with little wrong except a dated décor. If you have just purchased a home that seems to be stuck in the 1970s, don’t worry. There are plenty of cost-effective ways you can update the look and fall in love with your new home.
Looking Back
The 1970s were a very vibrant time in history. The colors and the taste levels were a bit questionable. However, there were some things about 70s décor that actually can be quite usable and work well for your updating plan. For example, many 70s homes were built with open floor plans. This is back in a big way, so you have some good bones to your new home that can easily be worked with to go modern. Another great feature you can work with are large windows and natural elements incorporated into the home design.
However, there are some things that will simply need to go. For example, shag carpet was big in the 1970s. If you get into a home that has shag left from the 70s, it probably isn’t in too good of shape and needs to go.
There are also some elements you can transform. Paneling is another common design element that you may want to work around. It is too dated for today’s modern homes but can be updated without having to tear it out.
Tearing Out Odd Elements
Many of the dated features in your new home can simply be removed. Things like carpet, tile and odd details, like stairway handrails or odd room dividers can also be removed. Your first step in remodeling should be to remove all the things you can that don’t fit your modern aesthetic. However, keep in mind, you may be able to update some things, so don’t get too demolition crazy. Go over your plan first with your home repair contractor to decide what stays and what goes. It is usually cheaper to transform than to replace.
Slapping on Some Paint
Paint can do wonders for a home renovation. You can add new paint to cover up old colors, such as avocado and bright orange, that may be left over from the 70s. You can also paint over paneling to update it and avoid the hassle of removing and replacing it. Cabinets can also be painted to help update them without the need to replace them, which is a huge undertaking and can drain your budget. The best thing about paint is that it is one of cheapest ways to make a change that also has one of the biggest impacts.
Replacing Fixtures
Another budget-friendly way to update is to replace all the dated fixtures. This include ceiling fans and faucets. It also includes handles on cabinets. Just replacing a fixture can really bring a room into the 21st Century. Plus, you can find a lot of good bargains on fixtures, so you won’t break the bank.
Tackling Large Items
There will be some things that you have to just redo. Slapping on paint or replacing elements probably won’t cut it. This includes flooring, which if your home is very dated, may be stuck in the 70s and include horrid colors and patterns. It also includes countertops in the kitchen and bathroom. You will have to be a savvy shopper to find good deals, but if you work with the right contractor, this shouldn’t be too difficult. Replacing these larger items will go a long way towards updating the look and removing some of that dated feel. It is well worth the money.
Once you have painted and transformed the main elements of your home, it is up to you to decorate it in a way that will translate to modern. You should choose window treatments carefully. If you have the big 70’s style windows, then play that up. Use window coverings that allow the natural light in. Use modern furniture and colors that are in fashion today.
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