Easy Ways to Update Your Space
One of the biggest myths about home design? That it’s expensive. But here’s the truth: you don’t need a huge savings account or a full-blown renovation to make your space feel fresh, cozy, and pulled together. A few simple updates can go a long way—and they don’t have to cost a fortune.
A while back, I did a fun series on Instagram called Ask Ashley where followers sent in photos of their design dilemmas. And I noticed something funny… almost all of them had the same easy fixes. They were small changes—things anyone can do—that made a huge impact. So I pulled together my go-to tips to help you update your space without tearing down walls or spending thousands of dollars. These are ideas I’ve used over and over again in real client spaces and in my own home, and they’re things you can try today.
1. Rearrange Your Furniture
It’s free. It’s fun. And it just might be the reset your room needs.
Try pulling your sofa or chairs away from the walls—even just a few inches can make your space feel more intentional and cozy. One of the most common mistakes I saw during Ask Ashley was furniture shoved up against every wall. If you can, float your furniture a bit to give the room better flow and a more styled feel.
2. Add a Rug (or Layer One In)
A rug grounds your space, defines it, and adds texture and warmth. Without one, even the most beautiful room can feel unfinished.
Yes—you can absolutely use rugs on top of carpet (especially in bedrooms). You can also layer rugs for a cozier, collected look. Don’t overthink it—just start with something soft underfoot, and build from there.
3. Hang Drapery the Right Way
Even if you never plan to close them, curtains add softness and polish.
Skip the temptation to mount the rod right above the window trim—go higher. Hanging your curtain rod ½ to ⅔ of the way between the top of the window and the ceiling helps draw the eye up and makes your ceilings feel taller.
Pro tip: extend the rod several inches past the window on each side so your curtains can actually frame it. And make sure the fabric skims the floor—no high waters here.
You don’t need to spend a ton, either. Some of my favorite curtains are from IKEA and look just as good as designer ones once they’re hung right.
4. Swap in New Pillows
This is one of the quickest ways to update a space. Play with color, texture, and pattern—and don’t be afraid to mix and match.
With kids in the house, I don’t spend big money on pillows. I grab affordable ones from Target, HomeGoods, or TJ Maxx and switch them out seasonally. When they get stained, no tears—just a good excuse to refresh them again.
5. Add a Touch of Greenery
Whether it’s a faux potted tree in the corner or a small plant on your bathroom counter, greenery goes a long way in making a space feel alive.
I love using a little faux plant on a nightstand or bookshelf. It adds texture and color in such an easy, non-fussy way. (And no one has to remember to water it.)
6. Edit Your Shelves
Here’s the thing: shelves don’t need to be packed. In fact, they shouldn’t be.
Start fresh. Clear them off and slowly add things back in—think in terms of layers, height, and texture. Leave intentional white space so the eye has a place to rest. A few beautiful, well-chosen items go a lot further than a cluttered collection of “stuff.”
You don’t have to do everything all at once. Start small. Try one idea, then another. Live with it. Tweak it. Keep going until your space feels like you.
And if you’re craving a little more guidance, structure, or inspiration, I’ve created something just for you.
Rooted at Home is my step-by-step guide to refreshing a room with purpose. It walks you through the five foundational pieces of great design—from layout to styling—and gives you the tools to confidently make your space feel finished and meaningful, no matter your budget.
Because creating a home you love shouldn’t feel out of reach. It should feel doable. And it starts right here.