5 Affordable Home Design Trends for a Fresh Look

​Updated wallpaper can also come into play. Large-scale floral wallpaper or a vibrant print can look modern and sophisticated in a home office or as a focal point behind a headboard in a primary bedroom. ​

​​“I’m a maximalist when it comes to wallpaper, and floral wallpaper is very on-trend,” Griffin says. “A few companies … do really interesting, modern takes on floral prints.” ​

​And don’t forget the power of a fresh bouquet, adds Griffin.​

​“Florals always make a big impact,” she says. “I like to start the week by bringing new florals in, which finishes the space.”​

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​3. Shop your own house for mid-century chic​

​With its clean lines, simple design and emphasis on functionality, mid-century modern style is more popular than ever. You may already have the perfect on-trend statement piece of teak, rosewood or oak furniture from the 1960s or 1970s that’s simply in the wrong room. You can give these pieces pride of place and a fresh twist by incorporating contrasting elements to set them off, says Johnson.​

​“With mid-century modern, you think of straight edges and straight lines, but right now there’s a mix of lots of rounded edges coming in,” Johnson says.​

​For example, flank a long teak credenza with a pair of modern curved armchairs, or layer an oval rug under a straight-backed sofa softened with several new fluffy throws and accent pillows. Glass and metal tables also are part of the mid-century modern look, and their reflective properties can make small spaces feel airier.​

​Neutral, earthy shades found in mid-century modern décor — such as mustard yellow, olive green, ocher and deep red — reflect the organic nature of that era’s design and still look current when combined with soft whites and grays.​

​“Today we're seeing an influx of lots of bright, cheerful tones, so adding in layers of colors on top of those textures you already own can make a really interesting, dynamic space,” adds Johnson. ​

​4. Treat your space to new textures​

​Don’t want to commit to a new wall color? Griffin suggests revamping a room by bringing in different textures instead. ​

​“If you shy away from color, try layering textures so rooms don’t feel flat,” she says. “We’re seeing lots of texture in hard goods such as coffee tables and side tables.”​

​Inlaid panels of slatted trim pieces or grooves cut into the wood add interest to furniture, Griffin says. ​

​Drapery panels, cozy throws and accent pillows made with knitted fabric or velvet can create a warm environment. Add interest and texture underfoot with a good-quality rug, she says. ​

​“I'm a huge fan of rugs because they can really transform the direction, the style and the color of a space,” Griffin says.​

​Inexpensive touches of metallics can add glam too. For example, consider swapping out old kitchen or bathroom hardware for silver knobs to inject some sophisticated style. ​

​Pick up a few sleek lamps or place metallic candlesticks, framed mirrors, decorative bowls or trays to enhance your dining or living room. ​

​5. Don’t be afraid to mix and match​

​Decades ago, design trends dictated that sofas, love seats and armchairs all had to feature the same fabric, shape and scale — ditto in the primary bedroom, where dressers and nightstands had to match. These limited style options resulted in bland, boring spaces. Now, Johnson suggests thinking outside specific design conventions by surrounding yourself with things that make you feel comfortable and happy. ​

​“Today’s shoppers are tossing out all the rules about sticking to one trend,” she says. “They’re truly aligning with their personal style and embracing a mix of all the things they love, including colors.” ​

​Mixing styles can help achieve a well-designed, balanced space that reflects your personality, she says. Have one or two pieces you love? Build your room around those items by choosing a common thread such as the same color or repeating the same shape to create a cohesive look. ​

​Above all, have fun with the process. Try a few new things this spring and enjoy bringing your home to life. ​