25 Budget Living Room Makeovers Under $300
Transforming your living room doesn’t always mean breaking the bank. With a pinch of creativity, some DIY magic, and smart shopping, you can completely reinvent your space without spending a fortune. This guide shares 25 budget living room makeovers under $300 that feel fresh, stylish, and functional. Whether you’re renting, have a small space, or just want to inject new energy into your home, these ideas will inspire you to get hands-on and have fun with your living room makeover.
1. Paint an Accent Wall
Painting an accent wall is like giving your living room a focal point. Choose a bold color that complements your existing furniture. Even a single wall can change the entire mood of the room. Personally, I transformed a dull beige wall into a calming teal feature, and the difference was night and day. All it took was a $50 can of paint and some painter’s tape. The best part? You don’t need to repaint the whole room, which keeps the cost down and the impact high.
2. Swap Out Throw Pillows
Throw pillows are like the jewelry of your living room. Swapping them can instantly refresh your space. Mix textures—velvet with linen, patterns with solids—to make it visually interesting. For under $100, you can completely change the mood from cozy to chic. I once bought bright mustard pillows for my gray sofa, and it felt like the room woke up. Bonus tip: rotate them seasonally to keep your living room feeling new.
3. DIY Floating Shelves
Floating shelves are both decorative and functional. They give your walls life without cluttering the floor. A few planks of wood and some brackets from a hardware store can cost as little as $50. Display plants, photos, or small books, and suddenly your room feels curated and personal. Floating shelves are especially great for renters, as you can remove them without leaving permanent marks.
4. Upgrade Lighting Fixtures
Lighting can make or break a living room’s atmosphere. Swapping outdated fixtures for budget-friendly options or adding floor lamps can dramatically change the vibe. A warm-toned lamp makes a space cozy, while pendant lights feel modern. You can often find stylish options under $120 at big-box stores or online marketplaces. Proper lighting transforms dull corners into inviting spaces for reading, working, or entertaining.
5. Refinish or Paint Old Furniture
Old furniture doesn’t need to be tossed. Sanding and painting a coffee table or cabinet can make it look brand new. Chalk paint is a favorite for budget makeovers, costing about $40 per can. I painted my grandmother’s old wooden cabinet white, added new handles, and it became the centerpiece of the living room. Refinishing is satisfying because you see your effort turn into art—and save a lot of money at the same time.
6. Add Area Rugs
Area rugs define space, add warmth, and inject style. Even a small rug under a coffee table can pull the room together. Affordable rugs are available for $60-$150, and choosing patterns or textures can hide imperfections on floors. I found a jute rug that not only matched my couch but also made the room feel cozy during cold winter months. Always measure your space to ensure the rug enhances your room instead of overwhelming it.
7. Create a Gallery Wall
A gallery wall is a beautiful way to tell your story. Mix framed photos, art prints, and even small objects for a layered effect. Using thrifted frames and prints, you can keep costs under $100. I created a gallery wall with travel photos, and friends always stop to admire it. The key is balance: vary frame sizes and spacing to keep the wall dynamic but not chaotic.
8. Hang Decorative Mirrors
Mirrors double as decor and space enhancers. Hanging a large mirror reflects light and makes your room appear bigger. You can find stylish mirrors for $40-$90, or even DIY one using a thrifted frame and mirror sheet. I added a round mirror above my sofa, and suddenly the room felt airy and welcoming. Pro tip: place mirrors opposite windows for maximum natural light effect.
9. Swap Curtains
Curtains can dramatically alter your living room’s mood. Light, airy fabrics create a breezy feel, while darker tones add intimacy. Affordable curtains can be found for $40-$80, and installing them higher than your window frames can make the ceiling appear taller. I replaced heavy drapes with sheer linen panels, and the room instantly felt brighter and more spacious.
10. Add Indoor Plants
Indoor plants are budget-friendly mood boosters. Not only do they bring color and life, but they also purify the air. For $30-$100, you can buy a variety of pots and greenery. I mixed tall fiddle leaf figs with smaller succulents on shelves, and the room transformed from dull to vibrant. Bonus: taking care of plants adds a calming daily routine to your life.
11. DIY Coffee Table Makeover
Your coffee table is the centerpiece, so why not give it some love? Sand, paint, or even apply peel-and-stick veneer for a fresh look. Budget $50-$100 for materials. I once painted a scratched-up table with a bold navy blue and added a glass top. It instantly upgraded the entire living area. Coffee tables also provide functionality, so updating them is a win-win.
12. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a renter-friendly way to add texture or pattern. Choose geometric prints, florals, or metallics. Costs range from $40-$100. I added a subtle chevron wallpaper behind my TV, and it created depth without overwhelming the room. Best of all, it’s easy to remove or swap if your taste changes.
13. Update Hardware on Furniture
Switching knobs and handles can transform cabinets and drawers. It’s a tiny detail with a huge impact. Many stylish options are under $50. I updated my old TV console with brushed gold pulls, and it looked modern and polished. Small changes like this show attention to detail and make the room feel intentional.
14. Use Decorative Baskets
Baskets add charm and storage simultaneously. Natural fibers like rattan or wicker look stylish while hiding clutter. A few baskets can cost $30-$70. I organized blankets, magazines, and toys in baskets, and the room instantly felt cleaner and cozier. They’re a practical and aesthetic win, especially for family living rooms.
15. Layer Lighting
Layering different light sources—floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces—creates depth. Even a single extra lamp can change a room’s mood. Layered lighting costs $40-$90 when using budget lamps. I added a floor lamp behind my reading chair, and the corner became the perfect cozy nook. Play with warm vs. cool light to set your desired vibe.
16. Add Floating Media Console
A floating media console modernizes your TV area while freeing floor space. Budget-friendly options range $50-$120. I installed one under my wall-mounted TV, and suddenly the room felt more open and stylish. Floating consoles also allow for decorative storage underneath, keeping the area neat.
17. DIY Wall Art
Creating your own wall art is cost-effective and personal. Use canvas, paint, or even framed fabric. Costs can be as low as $20. I painted abstract art for my hallway, and it became a conversation starter in the living room. DIY wall art is satisfying because it’s uniquely yours and adds character you can’t buy.
18. Rearrange Furniture Layout
Sometimes the best makeover costs nothing. Rearranging furniture can open up space, improve flow, and create focal points. I moved my sofa away from the wall and angled my chairs, and suddenly the room felt larger. Shifting pieces encourages new perspectives and makes your space feel fresh without spending a dime.
19. Add Slipcovers
Slipcovers breathe new life into worn sofas. Affordable options are $50-$150. I transformed a faded couch with a soft linen slipcover, and it instantly felt new. Slipcovers also protect furniture and allow seasonal color changes. It’s a practical, budget-friendly way to reinvent seating.
20. DIY Curtain Tiebacks
Tiebacks add elegance to curtains. Use rope, fabric, or decorative knobs. Costs range $10-$30. I made braided tiebacks for my sheer curtains, giving the room a sophisticated touch. Small details like these elevate the overall aesthetic and show thoughtfulness in design.
21. Install Peel-and-Stick Tiles
Peel-and-stick tiles are an easy way to refresh walls or floors. Costs are $50-$120 for stylish patterns. I installed them behind my media area, giving the room a modern, textured look. They’re perfect for renters and anyone avoiding permanent renovations.
22. Upgrade Sofa Throws
Throws add comfort, color, and style. Affordable options range $30-$80. I layered a chunky knit throw on my sofa, and suddenly movie nights felt luxurious. Changing throws seasonally keeps your space feeling dynamic and cozy.
23. Add Small Accent Furniture
Small accent tables or chairs enhance functionality and style. Budget $60-$120. I added a small round side table next to my armchair, perfect for coffee or books. Accent pieces provide versatility while filling empty spaces tastefully.
24. DIY Ottoman Makeover
Ottomans are functional for storage and seating. Paint, fabric, or cushion upgrades cost $40-$90. I recovered mine in velvet fabric, making it a chic centerpiece. Ottomans are surprisingly transformative—they elevate comfort and style simultaneously.
25. Create Themed Corners
Themed corners add personality without cost-heavy renovations. Choose a reading nook, a mini bar, or plant corner. Budget $30-$100 depending on accessories. I made a cozy reading corner with a lamp, throw, and small shelf. These corners become conversation spots and make the room feel curated.
Transforming your living room doesn’t require thousands of dollars. These 25 budget living room makeovers under $300 show that small, intentional updates can create huge visual and emotional impact. From DIY projects to smart purchases, you can craft a space that reflects your personality, boosts comfort, and stays wallet-friendly. Start small, experiment, and watch your living room come alive with charm, color, and character.
