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Tax Refunds Provide Style Returns
Unexpected cash practically begs small splurges: an accessory here, a furniture upgrade there, maybe some lovely new linens ...
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected, not decorated, and that homes should always be as comfortable and functional as they are chic. In addition to writing for Houzz, I work as the Head Copywriter for Layla Grayce and Zinc Door.
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design... More »
I haven't met any fans of tax day. However, the lucky ones do make out with a treat: a little extra cash from a refund. Though this is not the case for all, those with a little extra padding in their bank accounts may be looking for a place to spend it. If home improvements are under consideration, make Uncle Sam proud by stretching those hard-earned dollars through clever updates that are both affordable and within your refund allowance. If you do it right, you’ll be whistling all the way to the bank.
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Shelves. Artwork isn’t the only way to personalize your walls. Instead, consider installing affordable shelving from places like Target or Ikea and fill them with books and knickknacks for a warm, lived-in feel.
by Aristea Rizakos
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Don’t want to cover your entire wall with shelving? Stretch your dollar further by purchasing a few individual shelves versus a larger set and fill them with finds from secondhand shops.
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| Wall decals. Your dream headboard may cost the amount of your entire tax return or more. Choose a creative alternative instead: a headboard wall decal. This unexpected choice will personalize your bedroom without sucking up your whole refund. |
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| Table runners. Ditch stuffy tablecloths and accessorize your dining table with a runner instead. You can buy one already made or create your own with your favorite fabric and an afternoon with the sewing machine. |
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by Annalea Hart
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| Clothespins and wire. Looking for an affordable way to hang artwork? Get crafty by hanging wire and attaching artwork via clothespins. Not only is this inexpensive and creative, but it also allows you to change out artwork with no hassle. |
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Draperies. They're a fairly common accessory, but they become especially interesting when used in unexpected ways. If your bed could use a little pizzazz, create a backdrop using a curtain. Look for a complementary color that helps your linens shine, as this purple drapery does for this bed’s gold elements.
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Frames. Gallery walls provide a great answer for displaying your favorite artwork in a chic fashion. Whether you have a collection of themed prints or an assortment of artwork featuring many styles, using the same frame will create cohesion and tie them altogether. Visit Ikea or Michael’s for affordable options.
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| An extra set of bed sheets. Want to give your bedroom an eclectic feel without too much effort? Buy an additional sheet set and mix the two. Pair textured white pillowcases with a patterned sheet or mix up two sheet sets in complementary colors. Have some fun with it. |
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| A can of paint. You’ve heard this time and time again, but a coat of paint can make all the difference. Slap a bold red onto an antique desk to give it a contemporary spin or update your wall color for a dramatic new look. If the task seems too daunting, start small by painting inexpensive accessories, like vases. |
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A bold stair runner. The stairs may seem like a simple pass-through between levels, but this space can be truly amplified by creative decor. Instead of only focusing on the walls, get the stairs themselves in the mix by dressing them with a bold runner, like this striped rainbow option.
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| An accent chair. If you have a bit more room in your budget, you might be able to introduce a few pricier considerations. One option to think about is the accent chair, especially if your space is done primarily in all neutrals. A bright complement will freshen the space immediately. |
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A mural. Sure, you can easily paint your wall or choose bold wallpaper. However, you simply can’t beat the statement of a wall mural. Have a talented artist for a friend? Hire him or her to paint it directly onto your wall for an application completely unique to your space.
by Design House
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New upholstery. Remember that incredible antique loveseat you hunted down at a flea market years ago? Get it out of storage and turn it into the beauty you envisioned with new upholstery. Either hire a professional upholsterer or, if you’re handy, take an upholstery class and give it a try yourself.
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Fresh flowers. One of the simplest, most affordable ways to revitalize a space. A tax return well spent!
Ideabook published on April 17, 2012.
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(I don't expect to get sound financial advice from Houzz, but puh-leaze! Could you send a worse message to an audience that may already be mostly composed of design and furnishings addicts?)