15 Quick and Easy Home Decorating Ideas for a Fast Refresh

There’s a whole lot more you can do with a roll of wallpaper than you may have initially thought. Some ideas include designing an accent wall, covering a whole room, or even framing a few panels to create large-scale wall art. There are tons of options for application, too—traditional makes for an easy weekend project, but peel and stick is great for renters or anyone who doesn’t want to make the permanent commitment. There are even wallpaper murals these days. No matter what you choose, we guarantee your walls will have more personality in no time. 

Functional pieces like wall shelves don’t have to be boring. In fact, you can make these objects a centerpiece in your decor, by way of interesting carvings; decorative etching or painted details; or a fun pattern like this black walnut and ash checkerboard fascia design. Use it to style favorite art pieces, family photos, collectibles from your travels, and more.

Perhaps the most impactful thing you can do to make your home feel (and smell!) more elevated is to find your signature scent. If you have a scent profile you gravitate towards—be it musk, florals, woods, spices, or something else—search for complementary scented home products (like candles, room sprays, laundry detergents, and cleaning supplies) and infuse them wherever you can. It’s a simple but impactful way to make any space seem more luxe.

Adding in an area rug can do more for your space than you’d expect—bringing warmth, texture, pattern, color, and subtle style. And though these larger items can get pricey, they don’t have to. There are plenty of affordable area rugs that can provide the same look at a lower price. Search for low-pile rugs in flatweave styles to help save money without sacrificing style.

Changing out your lighting is always a great idea, but if you’re liking the look of your fixtures right now, consider simply changing out the bulbs. Smart bulbs are an excellent way to help your lighting pull its weight and then some. Installing these means you can change the color of your lights with the press of a button—whether you want a candlelight flicker, a color-changing strobe, a pretty warm white, or something else. Our editor Bree has used these in her house for the past five years, and loves that she can customize her lighting in a cinch.

Does your room design feel like it’s missing something? Want to cover up some of that couch you’re sick of, but not ready to replace? A throw blanket is what you need. They’re inexpensive, beautiful, and (obviously) ultra-cozy. This black-and-white find would liven up all types of living spaces, from a modern living room to a traditional bedroom. But if you’re not in the mood to buy new, you can simply take one from another room in your home. 

One of the quickest and easiest home decorating ideas is swapping out your bedding. Whether it’s your primary suite or a guest room, simply replacing the duvet or layering in a quilt can integrate pattern or color into the space right away. This three-piece set comes in four reversible shades, so you could switch up your look as your style shifts.

Don’t underestimate the power of a vase. Not only can you change out the flowers that live within them (or opt for dried arrangements—there’s some good ones out there now!), but they also act as statement decor on a bookshelf, mantel, side table, or wherever you need extra oomph. We have a full guide you can check out here, but our editorial director Megan has this specific vase and can confirm it’s beautiful, especially for the price.

Refresh you room with the flip of a switch? Absolutely. Updating your lighting enhances your decor, sure. But lamps like this Drew & Jonathan model can also add much needed ambience, too. Plus, if you install smart blubs, you can also control the color and brightness from your phone, which will make it even easier to set the mood. (Or turn them all off when you’re ready for your nap.) 

You can add sophistication and distinction to any space easily by putting up a new set of curtains. The flax linen fabric brings softness to the room while still providing privacy.

A pretty mirror can help make a space feel bigger, brighter, and better styled. Whether you want to freshen up your entryway, living room, or bedroom, this beautiful vintage-inspired wall mirror will spice it up instantly.

Throw pillows and throw pillow covers can be a game-changer for a room, and they’re such a simple swap! They can bring in new pattern, color, texture, or all the above in seconds. Our editorial director has these linen covers in her home, and praises them for their luxe look (at an affordable price), color options, and softness. If you need inserts, though, you’ll have to snag those separately. 

It may seem like a small change, but a tray can be the perfect addition to switch up a tabletop. Creating small vignettes by grouping objects on a tray can make a space feel both organized as well as design-forward. Consider placing a tray like this on your coffee table, then add a candle, wick cutter, and catchall dish to finish the look.

Good art is something that everyone everywhere can appreciate. And prints are a perfect way to make swapping out your art easy and affordable. You can completely reinvigorate a dull room with such a simple addition, like this moody landscape print from Etsy.

Painting or refacing cabinets can make a huge difference. But if that’s not in your wheelhouse or budget, try swapping out the drawer pulls in your kitchen or vanity. You could also change your doorknobs to modern models; update your curtain pullbacks or rods; or replace your towel hooks or switch plate covers. Those are all impactful mini makeovers that won’t take months (or your sanity) to complete.