• Paint.  A new coat of paint can run as cheap as $20 or even less if you’re just painting an accent wall.  It’s also probably the biggest change you can make in a room.  The difference between a yellow room and a blue room is huge; everything from the temperature to the mood changes, and all for the price of one gallon of paint.

Photo: The Daily Green

• Lighting.  A couple accent lamps can be picked up cheaply and make a world of difference on the ambiance within a room.  Set a few lamps with low wattage bulbs around the room and you’ll instantly have a cozier, more romantic feel.  Or, if you’re feeling brave, become a do it yourself-er for a weekend and install some sconces to add instant sophistication.

Photo: House Beautiful

• Accent Pillows. Bright, colorful pillows make a big statement on a neutral sofa.  Either custom made with inexpensive fabric or found for a bargain at a discount store, accent pillows are a great way to perk up a room.  You can splurge on an investment sofa and give it a new life every year or every season with inexpensive accent pillows.

Photo: Real Simple

• Artwork.  If you think it looks fabulous on your walls, then so will everyone else.  Hang up your children’s artwork or create some “modern” pieces of your own.  Frame the works as if they were a Monet and you’ll have an instant wall upgrade.

Photo: Real Simple

A few cheap, cosmetic touches can make a huge impact on a room.  Color, art, light, and fabric are inexpensive ways to make a tired room into one that is a breath of fresh air to your home.