Also, be sure to check out my feminine homemaking digital download templates! So, without further ado, let’s jump in!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

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Updated: August 21, 2024

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #36

For my 36th fun fact, I want to share that I am trying to get into and learn how to make cheese!

So far, I’ve started with simple cheeses like mozzarella and cottage cheese, but I’m hoping to get to a point where I can make hard cheeses like cheddar!

The Heart of the Home: Kitchen Countertops

So, first up on the list of the 6 affordable ways to update your home is to start with the kitchen counter. 

Because I’m renting this house that my mémère and pépère built, there are a lot of outdated home features, and the kitchen counters were one of them.

At the time, they were a drab gold color, and with the kitchen cabinets, it was wayyy too dark in the kitchen. So, my quick and easy fix for this problem was to add vinyl to the countertops. 

Now, full disclaimer, it was challenging to adhere the vinyl in the curved areas, like around the sink. But I’d say it is a much cheaper and longer-lasting solution than if we were to paint it.

We painted the backsplash as well, and while yes, it has also held up the same amount of time (about 3 ½ years), the backsplash sees way less traffic. Plus, there were times when we accidentally scuffed the backsplash, and it chipped the paint. 

The vinyl, on the other hand, has held up pretty well. I’d say the only areas that didn’t are the areas we had trouble with from the beginning, and even those are pretty minor. 

In addition to updating your countertop with vinyl, I would even go as far as to say what you keep on your countertops is also significant.

For example, a lot of modern kitchens keep the area simple. There isn’t much existing on the countertops for appliances and kitchen accessories. 

Updated kitchens have related items on display, like wooden cutting boards, lamps, or vintage/cottage decorative pieces.

This is where items like an oil or soap tray are perfect because they fit the description of having a decorative display in the kitchen while also being practical. 

Cozy Outdoor Living Space

Next up on the list of 6 affordable ways to update your home without remodeling is to have a cozy living space outside. 

I won’t go into too much detail on decorating your outdoor space because I have a full video and guide below, but know that having an enticing living space outside will add sophistication to your home. 

An outdoor patio can easily be associated with luxury, but it doesn’t always have to cost a fortune.

Get furniture from Facebook Marketplace and slowly acquire more decorative elements like tablecloths, rugs, plants, etc., to make your living space cozy.

Personally, I love to spend time on my screened-in porch. Whether it’s in the morning with a cup of coffee or in the evenings with a glass of wine, getting inspired by Pinterest for the upcoming projects I want to take on. 

Neutral Colors are Essential

The 3rd must-have, out of the 6 affordable ways to update your home without renovating is to acquire neutral-colored items.

I’m not a professional interior designer by any means, so this is just my opinion, but hear me out.

For the most part, colors will come and go.

So even though bold and dark colors are in right now, it doesn’t mean they’ll always be. Just like the gold countertops I mentioned earlier. At the time, it was in style when my pépère built the house. Now, not so much.

But I feel like neutral colors will ALWAYS be the base. 

So whenever you’re shopping for decorations, accessories, or essentials think neutral colors. 

For example, my comforter and chunky knit blanket are a good baseline for the orangy-toned flooring. While this pine flooring is beautiful for this room, I’d say the orangy tone is another updated color. 

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Affordable Bathroom Counter Transformation

Next up for the 6 affordable ways to update your home is to touch up your bathroom vanity. 

This way is very similar to the kitchen countertop, but it takes it a step further. 

So adhere the vinyl to the countertop. Also, on a side note, make sure the vinyl is waterproof (same for the kitchen countertop).

And add some simple yet decorative items. A bathroom vanity tray is a great way to do this.

But, take it a step further. I’d say if your sink is outdated, paint it! 

Now, I painted mine, and I do have a major recommendation. Don’t rush the process by simply taping the painter’s tape over the drain. Actually, take the drain out. 

Learn from my mistake because I just covered the drain with painter’s tape, and because it wasn’t 100% flush with the drain, water got underneath and peeled the paint.

However, all things equal, considering that only the bottom section has peeled and the rest is still intact, I’d say it’s a pretty worthy update, especially if you’re on a budget. 

Make sure you get the correct epoxy paint that can handle washing and everyday wear. You can find a link for the one I used here. 

Update the Corner into a Reading Nook

The second to last way on this list of 6 affordable ways to update your home is to have a cozy reading nook.

I think this speaks for itself, but the idea is to have an inviting and welcoming area. 

So often homes, whether outdated or not, have almost like an awkward area or vacant corner. And I find people sometimes struggle with how to fill the space. I feel like you can never go wrong with adding an accent chair, ottoman, or bench to create a cozy reading nook. 

Not only does adding these accent furniture pieces add an element of warmth, but it’s also an inviting place to sit or even put items down on. 

For example, I have a classier floordrobe because my clothes are at least on my ottoman and not on the floor. It’s all about perspective!!

Simplicity and Space

Last but not least, the 6th affordable way to update your home without renovating, is to consider simplifying your area. 

I find many outdated homes are filled with visual attention grabbers. 

In other words, certain design elements have harsh contrasts, excessive textures, or even an abundance of curvatures, all grabbing your attention. 

So, while a modern style is simple and sleek, an outdated red brick chimney, curvatures in wooden cabinets, and popcorn-textured walls don’t exactly fit the style of a modern home.

So, if you’re looking to update these areas without renovating, ask yourself how to make the area simple. Also, allow for more space to highlight the areas in your home that you want the attention on. 

This may take the form of making more space in your home by removing unnecessary furniture.

Or it may take the form of what I like to call “covering it up” by, let’s say hanging a picture or TV on that popcorn-covered wall to break up the texture. Or even adding a carpet to outdated flooring.

And don’t be afraid to have the less is more mentality when it comes to physical space.

In the end, having an area to do things, like setting up a table for paint and sip with your friends, is a priceless experience worth making room for. 

6 Affordable Ways to Update Your Home Without Remodeling 

So there you have it! 6 affordable ways to update your home without remodeling. Let me know if the comments if you have done or plan on doing any of these upgrades to your home! Again, check out my online storefront for lots of feminine digital downloads. Until next time! 

The post 6 Affordable Ways to Update Your Home Without Remodeling first appeared on Katie T's Home.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

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Updated: Jun 19, 2024

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #28

Fun fact time! This is a new section I’m including on my blog posts so my readers can get to know me on a personal level!

So, for my 28th fun fact, I want to share that I am attempting to garden this year! I’m new-ish to gardening and would love any tips from the experts out there! 

But my goal is to make more food from scratch. Whether it be sauce, salsa, pickles, etc., so having a garden will help fulfill this goal! 

First Things First: Clean the Area

Before I list the 7 bathroom vanity tray items, make sure your area is clean! I used a homemade vinegar solution to clean my countertops.

The recipe is super simple to make. All you need is a little time and some lemon peels! Instructions are below:

• Slice up your lemon peels
• Add vinegar to them and let sit for a few weeks
• drain out the vinegar and add an equal amount of water
• enjoy your new cleaner!

Also, as promised, the FREE label for a vinegar cleaner like this one. Just make sure you use a waterproof label adhesive! 

So now, let’s jump into the 7 bathroom vanity tray items!

Decorative Greenery as an Accent

Every tray is going to look a little different, as it should. Your decorative vanity tray might be larger or smaller.

And because everyone has a unique set of circumstances, it allows for individuation and personal style in each setting. 

My preferred style is modern cottage. It’s a classy and elegant twist on a rustic farmhouse style. Although, I do go back and forth on the two styles because there is so much overlap!

Regardless, I think a good start would be to have some decorative greenery for the aesthetic. 

This is because the greenery will help give depth and fill in the voids while adding a pop of color. This holds truth even on the bathroom vanity tray that is now relocated to my upstairs bathroom. The image below is an older photo, but the greenery really adds a pop of color!

Without adding the greenery, the tray would have a more contemporary look, which is not the style I am looking to achieve today. 

With that said, a good rule of thumb when wanting to add a more rustic and wholesome look to any area would be to add organic materials like greenery, wood, or stone. 

Essential Towles and Facecloths

Next up for the 7 bathroom vanity tray decor and essentials are to include facecloths or towels!

This will vary depending on the space you are working with, but having these handy will be convenient while giving the bathroom countertop a spa-like ambiance. 

Neutral colors are always a safe bet when it comes to decor. So, if you are searching for new facecloths, I’d recommend keeping the color neutral.

Also, keep in mind, that if you decide to fold the towels in a fancy roll, like I did, any pattern on the towel may get disrupted, so it’s best to stick with a solid color. 

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Decorative Jars 

The 3rd item out of 7 bathroom vanity tray decor/essentials is a decorative jar (or two)! This is where you can showcase your style because each jar or canister will elevate the aesthetic of your bathroom decor tray.

I received these farmhouse decor accessories from a friend as a wedding gift. They are the perfect size for this stand and allow room for other essentials and decor.

Something to keep in mind is if you want the jar to be see-through or a solid color. If it’s clear, like glass, this will make it easier for guests to determine what’s in them. 

But I will say many solid decorative jars are stunning when used in a bathroom decor tray, so whatever fits your situation is the best way to go!

Another thing to keep in mind, (as someone who is facing this issue) is how well the jars handle dust.

Because these specific ones are dark AND they have a flat top, it does not lend itself to hiding dust very well. Thankfully, my husband and I are pretty on top of cleaning regularly, but if you live in an older house or live near a body of water where dust is more prevalent regardless of the amount of cleaning that you do, I’d go with a lighter, solid colored jar that doesn’t have a flat top like these do.  

Hand Cream or Moisturizer

Hand cream or moisturizer is always good to have on hand and easily accessible for guests. Keeping it in the bathroom is the perfect place, because they may want to use it after they wash their hands.

This is another area where you can put the moisturizer in a nice container, but keep in mind that it should be labeled for the sake of guests knowing what it is. That is why I kept mine in its original container. 

If you do transfer it to another container, I’d recommend keeping note of the expiration date. If it’s a glass bottle, perhaps write it on the bottom with a marker (use rubbing alcohol or sanitizer to clean it off) because moisturizer does expire. 

If you have sensitive skin like I do and want a basic two-ingredient moisturizer, click the article below.

I’m not a professional cosmetic chemist by any means, but from personal experience, this moisturizer recipe has been the only one that hasn’t burned my face.

The biggest obstacle with this recipe is that it is a harder moisturizer, so spreading it isn’t as easy. My workaround is to put it in a candle warmer to melt it, and it’s perfect to go on!

Decorative Candle

The 5th out of 7 bathroom vanity tray must-have items is to incorporate a candle.

I’ll be honest, I’m not a huge candle-burning person for a few reasons.

One, the scent of many candles is overpowering and, two, many of them contain toxic ingredients.

I go into more detail in the article linked below and show you how I made a maple-scented candle, but besides the point, I think candles are still worthy of putting in your bathroom decor tray. 

Similar to the facecloths and towels, candles give a spa-like atmosphere, which is the perfect finishing touch to a bathroom vanity, regardless of style. 

Live Plant

Next up is a live plant!

Again, similar to the accent greenery, a live plant adds an organic and natural look.

Plus, there are many added health benefits of having plants in the home. Many of them clean the air we breathe, and who wouldn’t want that??

Homemade Soap

Last on the list of the 7 bathroom vanity tray items is to include homemade soap!

Okay, I know I don’t technically have soap on my tray. But I thought it was worth mentioning here because it is super important. 

Also, the recipe I used for my soap is as follows:

• 1 part castile liquid
• 2 parts water
• several drops of essential oil

If you are nervous about having soap on or near a wooden soap tray, check out my post on how I added a waterproof layer to my kitchen soap tray!

7 Bathroom Vanity Tray Decor Essentials for a Small Organized Bathroom

Well, my friends, that’s a wrap! I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about the 7 bathroom vanity tray essentials to include in your small AND now organized bathroom! Don’t forget to comment below on what you think or if you have any additional recommendations for this list! Until next time! 

Love,

Katie

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The post 7 Bathroom Vanity Tray Decor Essentials for a Small Organized Bathroom first appeared on Katie T's Home.

These 5 tips are specifically designed for renters like you. They will not only help you maximize your space but also incorporate trendy elements, create a cohesive design, and reflect your style. Whether you’re a first-time renter or a seasoned pro, these insights will empower you to transform your rental into a stylish and inviting space. So, let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to game-changing decor!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

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Maximize Your Space for Decorative Purposes

One of the key aspects to consider when decoratively maximizing your space is having the right storage. Whether the house or apartment has suitable closets and drawers or you need to obtain storage through furniture. Either way, storage is vital in getting the most use out of your space. 

Without having proper storage solutions in your apartment, there will be no room for decor. Think of it like a backyard filled with trees. If the end goal is to have a nice patio, you first need to remove the trees in the way. A home or apartment is no different. 

If you want a visually appealing space that allows you to express your style and taste, you need to start with the basics. And, that means having a clean area to start with, and the way to do that is to have optimal storage space. 

Functionality and Philosophy of Use

Out of the 5 home insp tips every renter needs to know for game-changing decor, this one is my favorite. The 2nd tip, out of the 5 is how the overall apartment or house functions and flows. You may be limited in terms of what you can and can’t do because the space is not yours to permanently change. 

For example, I’m currently renting the house I’m living in, and there are certain areas where the philosophy of use for that area is less than optimal. The bathroom vanities are one of those areas because they have no drawers. 

It would be ideal to have drawers in the bathroom vanities to store the essentials like toothpaste, toothbrushes, hair elastics, etc. Unfortunately, this is an area that is beyond my control. So the question becomes, how to find a way around this less-than-optimal functionality and do it in a way that looks good and not out of place?

Well, that my friends, is why I created a decorative bathroom tray! There is one in each bathroom, and they are super convenient and look good too. 

So, what about your space? Are there areas where the functionality is less than optimal? What decorative elements can you add that will enhance the overall space and functionality of the room? 

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Think back to the first tip in terms of storage or even furniture pieces that have hidden storage. These pieces will be game-changers in how the room functions and flows, creating the sense that there is more room than there actually is. All the while doing it in a way that looks good. 

Incorporate Trendy Elements

When incorporating trendy elements, it’s important to strike a balance and avoid going overboard. Remember that trends come and go, so it’s best to choose elements that can be easily replaced or updated when your tastes change or when new trends emerge.

One way to incorporate trendy elements into your rental space is by adding statement pieces. These can be bold, eye-catching items that instantly draw attention and add a touch of personality to your decor. 

Consider incorporating a trendy pattern or color into your furniture, such as a vibrant geometric print chair or a trendy color block area rug. These statement pieces can easily be switched out or updated as trends evolve, allowing you to keep your space feeling fresh and up-to-date.

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Another way to incorporate trendy elements is through smaller accents and accessories. These can be easily swapped out to reflect the latest trends without a major investment. 

For example, you can add trendy throw pillows in the latest color palette or incorporate trendy decor pieces like a farmhouse lamp or indoor plants. By incorporating these small touches, you can infuse your rental space with the latest trends and create a cohesive, stylish look.

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Incorporating trendy elements into your rental space allows you to stay on top of the latest design trends and gives you the freedom to express your style. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with different elements to maximize your space and create a game-changing decor that truly inspires.

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Create a Cohesive Design

One key aspect of achieving a cohesive design is to establish a consistent color palette. 

Sticking with neutral colors is one of the best ways to do this. Also, remember the more areas where there is drastic contrast in color, the more the home will feel disjointed. 

In addition to a cohesive color scheme, consider the overall style you want to convey. Whether you prefer a minimalist, bohemian, or farmhouse, make sure your furniture and decor choices align with that style. Mixing too many styles can create a cluttered and disjointed look, so aim for consistency.

One of the biggest challenges I face with decorating this home is finding that balance between my style and the style of the home itself. For those new to the blog, my Memere and Pepere built the house, and they built it with the notion that the craftsmanship of the house would stand on its own without the need for decor.

On the flip side, my preference would be to have a minimalist base. Whether it be less contrasting colors on the walls or even textures or patterns throughout the house. And to be clear, I’m not saying I wouldn’t want any contrasting colors, textures, or patterns, but rather, less of it. Taking this approach would allow me to incorporate more statement pieces or decorate the way that I’d like.  

My workaround for this is two things. Finding that middle ground and bringing out the best in the house, even if it’s not 100% my style. And the second approach is what I like to call “covering it up”. 

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Whether it means applying vinyl to those gold countertops (yes, this was one of the first projects I did when I moved in). Or adding large pictures to brighten the dark wooden bookshelves. Either way, there are countless ways to change or tweak parts of the home or apartment without it being costly or permanent. 

Reflect Your Style

Finally, the last out of the 5 home inspo tips every renter needs to know is reflecting your style. One way to showcase your style is through color and texture. If you’re a fan of cozy and inviting spaces, incorporate chunky knit blankets or faux fur pillows for warmth. If you prefer a more modern and sleek look, opt for furniture and decor that are neutral-colored and simple in design. 

Don’t forget about incorporating elements that showcase your hobbies and passions. For example, if you’re an avid reader, create a cozy reading nook with a comfortable chair. 

If you love travel, display souvenirs and photographs from your adventures, or in my case, rocks from the beach. By incorporating these personal touches, you create a space that is visually appealing and tells a story about you.

Another big tip that I cannot emphasize enough is not looking at items for face value. 

For example, my husband and I inherited these extra plates from his grandparents. Instead of having them sit in a cabinet, they make perfect display pieces. Challenge yourself and see if there are everyday household items that can be useful as decorations instead of taking up that valuable storage space. 

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5 Home Inspo Tips Every Renter Needs to Know for Game-Changing Decor

In conclusion, these 5 home inspo tips are the key to transforming your rented space. With a focus on maximizing your space, philosophy of use, incorporating trendy elements, creating a cohesive design, and reflecting your personal style, you can break free from the limitations of renting and express yourself fully. 

Don’t let your temporary living situation hinder your creative spirit! Start implementing these game-changing decor tips today and turn your rental into a noteworthy space!

The post 5 Home Inspo Tips Every Renter Needs to Know for Game-Changing Décor first appeared on Katie T's Home.