Today is a little different than my normal format.  Based on a group prompt from one of the interior designers I follow, here are 7 things I would do with $100 to improve the aesthetics of my home.  Each of these makes an impact far beyond the $100 price tag.  Give one a try – it just might surprise you!

Idea #1: Add a Mirror

You can easily find a large-scale mirror for $100 these days (if you buy secondhand, you can really maximize that budget, too!).  Bringing one into your space makes the room feel larger and I love the way they reflect light.  PRO TIP: When you hunt second-hand, look for top brands like Pottery Barn, Pier 1 Imports and Anthropologie.  Sometimes you can snag an excellent deal!

Idea #2: Paint for the Win

If you have a few basic supplies, $100 can buy a lot of paint!  Use it to freshen up a dingy stairwell, create a fun feature wall or give a color pop to a nook.  Paint is always an easy DIY, and you can make a splash (no pun intended!) in an afternoon.  PRO TIP: Consider painting your interior doors.  You can either go bold with a fun color or dress them up with a neutral (black is awesome!) – either way is a huge upgrade!

Idea #3: Bring the Outdoors In

A $100 spent on potted plants can completely alter a space.  Big box hardware stores often sell massive plants for a great price – you might be able to get a couple! – and they command so much attention in a room.  PRO TIP: Dress up the plastic pots with a quick trip to the thrift store.  You can almost always find oversized wicker pot covers for a dollar or two.

Idea #4: Frame in an Art Piece

If you spend your $100 on a dozen inexpensive matching frames, you can fill them with coordinating prints by cutting up an outdated calendar or an old book.  Hung together in a grid, they make an impressive art piece that will look far pricier than they are.  PRO TIP: If your frames are larger than your art, scrapbook paper makes pretty mats. 

Idea #5: Wallpaper It

In the world of top-quality wallpaper, $100 won’t buy a ton, but more than enough to make a fun statement in a powder room or nook.  It’s a great way to go bold without a huge commitment (or breaking the bank!) Peel-n-stick wallpaper installs easily, making it a quick DIY.  PRO TIP: Wallpaper the ceiling in the entry or mud room for an unexpected designer look.

Idea #6: Swap Out Hardware

Changing the hardware on either cabinetry or furniture pieces is a great way to modernize a look.  You can opt for a color change (gold is very in right now!), or try out a unique look to dress up an area in your home.  PRO TIP: If you don’t need a lot of pieces, craft stores often have very unique knobs – porcelain, marble and even glass!

Idea #7: Upgrade a Chandelier

Swapping a chandelier out can completely change the look and feel of a room, and you can often find unique ones for less than $100, especially if you shop used.  My favorite place to look for fun chandeliers is the Habitat for Humanity Resale Store.  It’s amazing what you can find!  PRO TIP: Don’t discount items that aren’t – technically – chandeliers at all.  You can DIY one using anything from a unique wicker basket to some discarded bike wheels.

So there you have it.  Seven home décor ideas for $100!