Quality (budget friendly) upgrades that made our new builder-grade house feel like home! We bought our new build in September 2024, here’s everything we’ve added so far to add personality and character. I’ll continue to update the list as we make add...
This replaced a can light and made our entry way more inviting and cozy. It has four bulbs so it puts out good light in our space
15.75" Gold 4-Light Drum Pendant Chandelier
I put two of these in our garage entry for a classic look. A huge upgrade from the builder grade light and at a great price point
Pathson Vintage Flush Ceiling Light Brushed Brass
I fell in love with a chandelier that was thousands of dollars. Image search helped me find this dupe and it’s perfect above my dining table. It feels timeless
Pendant with Pleated Shade Ceiling Light White - Threshold™ designed with Studio McGee: Elegant Iron & Cotton Fixture, UL Listed
My exact kitchen island light is no longer available but this one is a close match and a similar price point. The builder only put one light above our island 😑This fixture distributes the light across the whole island
2-Light Gold Linear Chandelier, 55 Inch
This sconce feels like it’s always belonged in my half bath. It makes the bathroom warmer and cozier! Our half bath didn’t come with a vanity light so extra light was a must!
Vintage Fabric Wall Sconce with Linen Shade
I love the dimmer on these. They can be hard wired or plugged in. They really dress up our plain hallway and add nice lighting
Dimmable Plug-in Wall Sconces Set of 2, White
Window treatments instantly made the house feel more complete. These curtains feel and look expensive but are very affordable. I have them in the living room, morning room and guest room
Pleated Linen Curtains 96in 2 Panel Set Cream
Quality shades that feel timeless. The best purchase I made for the new house. They made the biggest impact in the living room paired with the pleated curtains. The color is Belgium flax. And these frequently go on sale!
CHICOLOGY Roman Shades 34"x64" Belgian Flax
Organic natural warm tones added the perfect touch to the morning room paired with the pleated curtains. I have the color Acorn. They filter light during the day but do not provide privacy at night FYI
CHICOLOGY Bamboo Roman Shades, 34"x64"
Not orangey or cheap looking. Budget friendly curtain rod that is sturdy and a great color. These are in my living room
Ivilon Drapery Rod 1 Inch Pole 72-144in Warm Gold
Another sturdy curtain rod that’s budget friendly. These are in my morning room!
Adjustable 16-144in Black Curtain Rod 1in Dia
Instant upgrade for our main floor. The builder grade knobs looked so cheap. These have a nice weight to them, they’re sturdy and timeless. Definitely gives a custom feel
2 Pack Antique Brass Bronze Door Knobs
Any easy weekend upgrade to instantly improve the look of the cabinets. Our new build didn’t come with cabinet hardware. This was one of the first purchases I made when we moved in.
10 Pack 7.5" Champagne Bronze Cabinet Pulls
Knobs to match the pulls above. I did pulls on the drawers and knobs on the cabinets
20 Pack 1.2 Inch Champagne Bronze Cabinet Knobs
Another quick upgrade that makes a huge difference. Replaced the cheap plastic hooks in our garage entry with these!
TUNNY 5-Pack Champagne Bronze Coat Hooks
Replaced the builder grade fixtures with these brass ones which made a huge difference
Antique Stainless Steel Towel & Toilet Paper Holder Set
Wallpaper is a great option to add personality without a major project! This is in my half bath. I have a list that includes everything I used!
Sand & Stable™ Cassius Wallpaper Roll & Reviews | Wayfair
Another quick project with major impact. Our playroom needed some youthful charm and this wallpaper is perfect
Brewster Home Fashions Seaside Living 33' L x 20.5" W Cabin Stripe Wallpaper Roll & Reviews | Wayfair
My youngest son’s room is so magical with this start stencil 😍 a great option if wallpaper is not your thing. It’s beginner friendly and turned out amazing
Celestial Wall Stencil 2-Pack, Geometric Star Stencil for Painting, Nursery Décor (14.5"x27")
Swapping out the basic mirror can really transform the space. This is the one I put in my half bath
Kate and Laurel Hatherleigh Scalloped Oval Mirror 24x34 Rustic Brown
Half bath wall color
Aesthetic White SW 7035 | White Paint Colors
Main floor paint color. Perfectly creamy and doesn’t look yellow on the wall
Greek Villa SW 7551 | White Paint Colors
Way more functional than the classic wire shelves in our master closet. A custom closet is not in the budget but these dressers from
IKEA fit perfectly under the shelves and gives the vibe of built in drawers.