In the best of all worlds, there would be unlimited cash available to make any decorating decisions we would like. The reality is, for most of us, that we have to make do with budget constraints to make our homes look and feel inviting and comfortable. While we all may not be able to afford the pricey details we see in home magazines, there are still some small things we can do to brighten our living spaces. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Be bold with color, but limit it to a few items. If your carpet is beige, your walls are white, and your furniture is upholstered in basic earth tones, think of a few striking details you might use to enliven the room. How about a modern print that contains deeply saturated colors? Or use a modern area rug like a fun and funky shag area rug.
2. Add pillows upholstered in different sizes, shapes, colors, and textures. If you can’t afford to buy many of them, pick out some remnant material and make your own. Use large ones for floor seating.
3. Candles add a warm glow (the kind you get from the fireplace you can’t afford to install) and cost very little. Vary the types of candles, but don’t overdo on scented candles. Lighting them all at once can cause an olfactory overload.
4. Consider slipcovers. Is the sofa warn looking, but still structurally sound and oh-so-comfy? Slipcover it. Today’s versions are nothing like what grandma used to have and the new fitting systems keep them snug in place on most styles.
5. Keep clutter to a minimum. Little else ruins the look of a room than scattered items everywhere. Put magazines in a basket (one or two artfully arranged on a coffee table is ok), stow away the tissue box, remand clothing items to the closet or bureau where they belong. Mementos and collectibles are fine, but should not dominate the room.
6. Try the resale shop for new furniture items. It is surprising what treasures can be had there—and with a little fixing or paint, they can serve admirably for many years.
7. Open things up. Nothing brings life to a room like natural light. Roll up blinds and swag back drapery during the day. If you require more privacy, make or buy shears for the windows.
8. Rearrange the furniture. Think of ways you might move pieces around to make the space more appealing. Try setting up various spaces within a room—a cozy chair and reading lamp in a corner away from the sofa and TV or a snug nook with writing desk for the computer. Plants, screens, or bookcases can often be used as casual dividers. Or use area rugs to define ‘room’s. Try not to place all furniture items along the walls—move things out into the center of the room or on angles if possible.
9. Minimize the importance of the television set. In so many living areas, the TV is the main focal point. And while it may the center of attention much of the time, it should not be the dominant decorating feature. Hide it in a hutch or tuck it in a corner (but in direct line of sight of your favorite seating).
10. Try a dramatic paint color or technique. Instructions for accomplishing some exciting effects are easily found on the Web. Do an entire room or just one wall.