Even if you're not a DIY expert, we'll walk you through practical tips and creative ideas to transform your living room without breaking the bank.
The Radiators
Look, it’s no mystery that a new radiator can completely overhaul the aesthetic of a living room refurb, but not everyone goes down the route, purely due to the costs of buying and installing one.But what if I told you that it doesn’t always have to be as bad as you think? In fact, at Trade Radiators you can shop entirely online and find your dream radiator—all with trade pricing! Yep, that means trade prices for everyone, even typical homeowners.
Once you have found a nice vertical or horizontal radiator that fits your style and budget, you simply proceed to checkout and the rest is taken care of for you. Plus, many of these online radiator stores should have BTU calculators and tailored guides on how to pick the best radiators based on your budget, so it doesn’t always have to be as stressful as you may think.
The Fireplace
How do you budget for a fireplace, or even just a nice feature wall? There are several cost-effective ways to refresh and update the feature without spending a fortune.
For exposed bricks that need a refresh, a simple solution is to use masonry paint, which can give the fireplace a clean, fresh look. You can even limewash the bricks for a classic white finish, all for a relatively low cost.
For the hearth, it’s worth taking your time to shop around and look for deals. Websites like Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, and other second-hand platforms often have great bargains.
Many builders and DIYers look to offload surplus materials such as slate, slabs, or tiles at a fraction of the price of new ones.
Make sure to measure the area first to ensure you can find something that fits your space.
For bits like wooden mantle, reaching out to a local carpenter or wood furniture maker can be a smart move. You can usually get a solid wood mantle for £50-£100, which is often more affordable than opting for a composite mantle.
Just be sure to check that your renovation complies with HETAS regulations if you have a live fire.
The Furniture
Furniture is one of the easiest areas to update without overspending. A quick search online for second-hand options can reveal a wealth of upcycled pieces being sold at great prices and often in excellent condition.Websites like Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree are again goldmines for finding quality furniture for a fraction of the cost.
If you're after something new, IKEA is your best friend, offering stylish and affordable furniture for all kinds of living spaces.
Another budget-friendly option is visiting local furniture outlet stores, where you can often find significant discounts on high-quality pieces.
The added bonus of shopping locally is that you can see the items in person before committing.
The Lighting
Good lighting can completely transform a living room, and the best part is that it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Swap out old, dull bulbs for warm LEDs.Fairy lights, floor lamps, and second-hand table lamps can add a cosy touch without a hefty price tag, these are all entirely based on your personal taste.
If you’re up for a little DIY, consider updating an old lampshade or spray-painting a second-hand light fixture for a modern look. Smart bulbs are also an affordable way to create adjustable ambiance without replacing your entire setup.
Try not to use the big light so often, stick to smaller, more ambient lights.
The Walls
Giving your walls a fresh look is one of the most budget-friendly ways to renovate your living room. A simple coat of paint in a neutral or bold colour can instantly refresh the space.If you’re after a bit more texture, peel-and-stick wallpaper is a cheap and easy way to add character without the commitment of traditional wallpaper.
Another great option is using wall art, posters, or even DIY picture frames to create a gallery wall. For an ultra-affordable update, try rearranging what you already have—sometimes, just moving a mirror or artwork to a new spot can make a big difference.
The Rest
We would love to go on forever, but this about covers the most important aspects of a living room renovation. A lot of the time, if it’s a significant renovation, the best thing to do is find a reliable tradesmen who can do a lot of the work for you, at a good price. Be wary of conning tradesmen looking to take advantage of those who are less clue’d up.For more renovation and home tips, take a look at our Home section
No comments