In today’s economic climate, the art of pinching pennies has become popular again. People are looking for all kinds of ways to save money, including on items such as groceries, clothing and even home maintenance and decorating.

For 2012, comfort, elegance and luxury are all in style. But how do you achieve those styles with a limited budget? The New Year is a perfect time to make old things new again, so think in terms of renewing and reusing to achieve a fresh look.

Paint

A fresh coat of paint can make any room look new. Relatively inexpensive, changing the color of any room is an easy way to freshen up your look. You can choose to change the color of every wall, or paint an accent wall in a high-contrast color. You also can choose to repaint trim and edges to create a fresh look. Be sure to choose a color that is complimentary to the existing shade of paint on your walls, as well as the furniture and other décor.

The average-sized room will use roughly three quarts of paint if you desire to paint each wall in the room. However, a single quart of paint will do if you plan to create an accent wall instead. Visit your local home improvement or paint store for ideas on which color of paint will best achieve your new look.

Window Treatments

Next to paint, changing up your window treatments is an easy and inexpensive way to freshen the look of any room. You need not buy entirely new window treatments to accomplish your goal. Instead, consider reusing what you already have to make new creations.

First and foremost, clean any existing draperies to help restore their natural luster. Once they are clean, you can update their look by adding rosettes, tiebacks or tussles, or by buying a new curtain rod to display them.

Accessories

For under $40, you can brighten up any dining room or kitchen eating area with inexpensive seat cushions and a new table covering.

Seat cushions look great on just about any style of table and chairs. Choose a color that is easily complimented by a new or existing table cloth. Pair them together and – VOILA – you have a new look for next to nothing.

Throw pillows are another way to easily change up the look and feel of a room. For under $30, you can purchase new ones in a bolder or calmer color, depending on the mood you wish to achieve. Want to save even more? Buy some new fabric and fit it over existing throw pillows. If the old pillows are in good shape, this is a great way to freshen them up without spending a lot of money.

Accent lamps and picture frames also are a great – and inexpensive – way to update a room. Want to splurge just a little in one area, but go cheap in others? Consider adding a unique or vintage-style accent table. These tables are perfect for any room. Place potted plants, lamps or even picture frames on them to dress them up and make them more inviting.

Need help deciding what to do? Keep in mind that many home improvement stores offer free classes and free advice on how best to update the look of any room.

Happy decorating!

~Shari Berg