Simple ways to refresh your living room

by bhs-ahEditor November 20, 2025

A living room should feel warm, calm, and welcoming. You don’t need a full remodel to give it new life. Small, low-cost changes can make a big difference in how the space looks and feels. Try these simple ideas to refresh your living room, even if you have a tight budget and limited time.

Declutter and Rearrange Furniture

Start by clearing surfaces and removing items you no longer use. Put away extra cords, old magazines, and decor that crowds the room. Then try a fresh layout. Pull your sofa off the wall, angle a chair, or create a cozy reading corner. Even small shifts can open the room and improve flow.

Add Color with Textiles

Pillows, throws, and rugs add instant color and texture. Choose two or three colors that work well together and repeat them around the room. A new rug can anchor the seating area, while soft throws and patterned pillows bring comfort and style. Mix textures like knit, velvet, and cotton for a layered look.

Update Lighting Layers

Good lighting changes everything. Use three layers: ambient (ceiling lights), task (floor or table lamps), and accent (string lights or picture lights). Warm bulbs make the room feel cozy. Place a floor lamp behind a chair for reading and add a small lamp on a side table for soft evening light.

Refresh Walls: Paint or Peel-and-Stick

A fresh coat of paint in a light, warm shade can brighten the space. If painting feels like too much, try peel-and-stick wallpaper on one wall for a fun focal point. You can also swap heavy art for a simple mirror to reflect light and make the room feel larger.

Bring in Nature

Plants add life, color, and cleaner air. Choose easy options like snake plants, pothos, or succulents. If you don’t want real plants, high-quality faux greenery still adds freshness. Place a plant near the window, on the coffee table, or on a shelf to soften hard lines.

Style the Coffee Table and Surfaces

Keep surfaces tidy and intentional. Use a tray to group items and add height with a stack of books, a candle, and a small plant. Rotate decor by season so the room always feels fresh. Leave empty space so the area looks calm, not cluttered.

Swap Art and Personal Touches

Change out frames, switch prints, or create a mini gallery wall with family photos and travel mementos. Use matching frames for a clean look, or mix sizes for a relaxed style. Personal pieces tell your story and make the room feel truly yours.