Team Two Times

The possibilities are endless if you have a tired old living room and $1,000. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Add chair rails for instant charm. If you want to take it a step further, try painting a dark color below the rail and a lighter shade above. For a little work and about $200, this is an easy project that offers dramatic results.

Change your flooring. If you think you can’t afford hardwood floors, you’re wrong. There are many great looking laminate floors on the market for $1-1.50/sq ft. This puts the cost of wood flooring for the average living room at about $400, and with the new “click lock” or “snap together” flooring systems, anyone can install them. There’s no glue or mess and you can change them in a few years just as easily.

Don’t forget to accessorize. An area rug is a simple way to ground the space and add color. A new media center will also change the feel of your room. If you don’t have money in the budget to buy a new one, try looking in the online classifieds for one that will work with your design. If you can’t find one that matches your current furniture, think about painting or refinishing one that will fit in your space. You’ll not only get the look you love but imagine the bragging rights!

Save money for beer and pizza, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy your new living room. I should also note that if you invite friends to assist you ALWAYS serve the beer after the job is done. Trust me on this.

Labels: $1000 living room makeover, 24 hour design, budget, design on a dime, do it yourself, fun home projects, hgtv, home improvement, russ hemmis, team two times