Easy Affordable Home Decor

How to Make Your House a Home: Affordable Upgrades and Personal Flair

Your home should be a reflection of you—whether you’re drawn to a neutral palette, the charm of shabby chic, or the sleekness of modern architecture. I believe that no matter your design style, you can always add personality and flair to your space, turning it into a sanctuary that feels uniquely yours.

Designing a Space That Reflects You

When I think of my own home, I love working with a neutral base and building from there. Neutrals create a versatile canvas where you can layer in textures, prints, and pops of color that evolve with the seasons. My favorite item in my home is my hand-blown leopard print Murano glass lights over my kitchen island. They add a fun, unexpected twist to an otherwise sleek and classic kitchen, much like the way I approach mixing oversized cabbage roses with geometric patterns.

Shabby chic might lean into distressed finishes, soft fabrics, and vintage finds, while architectural sleekness brings clean lines and minimalism. But no matter your aesthetic, you can always add a spark of personality with simple, affordable upgrades—even from the dollar store!

3 Dollar Store Upgrades to Transform Your Space

You don’t need to splurge to make a big impact. Here are three items from the dollar store that can instantly elevate your home:

1. Glass Jars or Vases – Use them as decorative accents or for functional purposes like storing kitchen essentials or holding fresh flowers. Add a ribbon or twine to give it a rustic, personal touch.
2. Picture Frames – Swap out old or dated frames for sleek, modern ones, or go for a mix of metallic and matte finishes. You can even spray paint frames for a pop of color or a distressed vintage look.
3. Candles and Candle Holders – Candles add instant warmth and ambiance to any space. Choose candles in neutral tones or vibrant seasonal colors to create a cozy atmosphere. A mix of different-sized candle holders adds dimension to a coffee table or mantel.

These small additions can refresh your space without breaking the bank, proving that it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference.

Creating a Space That Brings You Joy

When you walk into your home, it should feel like a warm hug—comfortable, familiar, and undeniably you. I love mixing prints, textures, and colors that bring me joy, whether it’s the vibrant reds that pop against a neutral backdrop or the delicate florals that contrast with stark geometric shapes. Your space should tell your story, and when you fill it with items that reflect your personality, it becomes more than just a house—it becomes your home.

Fall Fragrance Recipe: Non-Toxic and Cozy

One of my favorite ways to make my home feel cozy and inviting during the fall season is by filling it with warm, comforting scents. I love using a wax warmer to create non-toxic fragrances that are safe and natural.

Here’s an easy DIY recipe for a fall-inspired scent:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (acts as the base)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (or a cinnamon stick)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: a few drops of clove or orange essential oil for an extra fall vibe

Instructions:

1. Add the coconut oil to your wax warmer.
2. Sprinkle in the cinnamon or drop in a cinnamon stick.
3. Add the vanilla extract and any optional essential oils.
4. Let the mixture melt, filling your home with the rich, warm scent of fall.

This simple blend of cinnamon, vanilla, and coconut oil creates an inviting fragrance without any harsh chemicals, making your home smell like a cozy autumn day.

Final Thoughts

Making your house feel like a home is all about reflecting who you are in your space. From affordable upgrades that add instant flair to creating natural, non-toxic scents that bring warmth and comfort, it’s the personal touches that transform a house into a home. Whether you’re drawn to a neutral palette or enjoy mixing and matching styles, your home should be a joyful space where you can truly express yourself.

So, why not try a few of these tips today? Elevate your space, mix in a little personality, and let your home tell your story!