Avoid a ‘higgledy-piggledy’ decor trend that makes your home look cheap – my budget-friendly advice revamps your space

AN old-fashioned decor trend can make your home look cheap, according to an expert.

He shared his cost-effective tips for renovating living spaces on a budget.

Paul Hambidge shared his expert tips for upgrading homes on a budget (stock image)Credit: Getty

Paul Hambidge is the managing director at Factory Direct Flooring, a UK-based company specializing in wood, laminate, and vinyl flooring.

Speaking to The U.S. Sun, he shared strategic ways to revamp homes.

STRATEGIC STYLE

Hambidge said a harmonious style is necessary to keep a home from looking “higgledy-piggledy.”

"The days of different rooms in the house having very different personalities are long gone,” he said.

“Now, there's a trend for flow and continuity throughout the entire home."

He shared the importance of not overlooking how flooring styles impact overall appearance.

“While it's not specific to a type of flooring, those replacing their existing flooring in one room should devote more attention to how their choice complements other floors in neighboring rooms, especially where the thresholds meet.”

He said a near-match will draw unwanted attention if it isn’t the “exact” same as flooring in other rooms.

“Instead, think about how your choice will complement the style of floor it meets at the threshold to another room or hallway,” he said.

“For instance, if you have limestone in your corridor, consider picking out another natural material, like real wood, with a grain that matches the darker flecks in the limestone."

FASHIONABLE FLOORING

Hambidge said many affordable alternatives for real wood floors give the same “gorgeous” look.

Top 3 interior design trends of 2024

“If you're looking for a budget-friendly flooring option for your home, you might consider vinyl, which typically comes at a fraction of the cost of other flooring options,” he said.

“It's easy to install, clean, and maintain, and is durable too, but if the worst should ever happen such as a large tear, it's also the most budget-friendly floor type to replace.

“There are hundreds of different designs available, including the ever-popular herringbone pattern, so you could imitate real wood, slate, concrete, or stone flooring if you want something that looks more luxurious while saving money."

He said room size must be considered when deciding between flooring colors.

“In smaller rooms where light is at a premium, choose lighter flooring to help create a calming area that also makes the space feel bigger and brighter,” he said.

Tips for making a small room look bigger

JJ Hornig, founder of Roxy Rentals, told The U.S. Sun her top hacks for making a room appear bigger.

Wallpaper on the ceiling: Hornig explained, "When making a space look larger or adding a new level of style, one big power play is drawing the eyes up."
Embrace vertical space: This trick helps to "free up valuable floor space and draw the eye upward, making the room feel taller."
Opt for multi-functional furniture: Pieces with built-in storage can create more space in your home.
Choose a “light and airy palette with pops of color.”
Elevate your room with statement artwork.

“Pair it with lighter walls too, so that you have a a low contrast between the floor and wall color.

“Too much contrast can make the room feel cramped because it creates a harsh horizon line.