When we moved into our homeābuilt in 2007āit had all the essentialsā¦ but none of the personality. And if you’re living in a newer or builder-grade home, I know you get it. It’s like a blank canvas: functional, yes, but not exactly cozy or you.
But here’s the beautiful thing: charm isn’t about square footage or original wood floorsāitās about the details you layer in over time. Let me show you 14 easy and budget-friendly ways to add character and soul to your home, one DIY project at a time.
1. Say Yes to Wallpaper (Even Temporary!)
Start small: a powder room, a closet-turned-office, or even the back of a bookcase. Try peel-and-stick for commitment-free charm, and donāt shy away from bold printsāthey add instant personality.
š Pro Tip: Use leftover wallpaper scraps to line drawers or trays for an unexpected pop.
2. Hide Storage in Plain Sight
Add charm and function by disguising storage. Try a skirted table to hide toys or tools, use ottomans with hidden compartments, or add toe-kick drawers to the kitchen.
š Try This: Bookcases can be customized with doors, trim, and baskets for a chic, built-in feel.
3. Color Drenching = Designer Vibes
Painting your walls, ceiling, and trim all one color creates a cozy, cohesive look. Moody tones (navy, deep green, charcoal) work great in small spaces too!
šØ Paint Hack: Use an eggshell or satin on walls and semi-gloss on trim in the same color for subtle contrast.
4. Peel-and-Stick Tiles = Instant Upgrade
You don’t need a contractor to get a gorgeous backsplash or dramatic floor. Peel-and-stick tiles come in modern styles and are renter-friendly.
š§¼ Pro Tip: Clean surfaces thoroughly and seal edges with caulk for longer wear.
5. Bookcases on a Budget
Custom millwork is dreamyābut pricey. You can DIY the look with pre-made shelving, crown molding, and strategic trim.
š My Favorite: Flanking a fireplace or TV with BILLY bookcases + trim = instant custom look.
6. Ceiling Magic
Paint isnāt just for walls! Try beadboard planks, ceiling medallions, or even wallpaper for an unexpected moment overhead.
š Design Hack: A painted ceiling makes a room feel tallerāespecially in bathrooms and hallways.
7. Flat Sheets as Wallpaper (Yes, Really!)
Thrifted or clearance sheets can be starched to the wall like wallpaper. Itās budget-friendly and totally removable.
šŖ DIY Tip: Use liquid starch and a roller to apply; it’s washable and leaves no damage.
8. Make It Cozy with Unexpected Touches
A canopy over your bed, a chunky throw, a vintage lampāthese little moments create warmth.
š” Mood Maker: Layer rugs, hang string lights, or swap out builder-grade light fixtures for thrifted finds.
9. Use Trim and Molding to Add Architecture
Even flat walls can feel like they have history with added trim. Picture frame molding, board and batten, or shiplap go a long way.
Premade Accent Wall Molding Kit
š Pro Tip: Foam molding is lightweight, easy to install, and paintableāperfect for DIYers.
10. Upgrade Your Hardware
Swap out basic cabinet knobs, door handles, and light switch plates for brass, matte black, or ceramic options.
š§° Small Investment, Big Impact: Even changing just your bathroom hardware can elevate the entire space.
11. Add Vintage Finds
Thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and estate sales are treasure troves of one-of-a-kind pieces that tell a story.
šŖ Favorite Finds: A vintage mirror, antique frames, or an old bench instantly adds charm.
12. Hang Curtains High
Mounting your curtain rods closer to the ceiling elongates the room and adds drama.
šŖ” Style Tip: Use clip rings and linen panels for a relaxed, effortless look.
13. Create Faux Architectural Features
Use wood or MDF to frame out doorways or create faux beams, corbels, or arches. Paint to match or contrast!
š Creative Hack: Faux fireplace mantels made from reclaimed wood can become an instant focal point.
14. Layer in Personality
This is where you come in. Display your kidsā artwork, frame a handwritten recipe, or style a shelf with books that actually mean something.
š Heartfelt Touch: Your home should reflect your storyānot just follow trends.
š Final Thoughts: DIY Doesnāt Mean Doing It Alone
At Abby Road Home, I believe adding charm isnāt just about designāitās about empowerment. Whether youāve got five minutes or five hours, every little change adds up.
Your home doesnāt have to be āfinishedā to be beautifulāit just needs to feel like you.
