Contemporary Living Room Makeover for Less Than $500

$74 - Paint
The stark white walls in the living room are painted a golden color and the entry walls are painted a soft green. A brown stripe is painted the perimeter of the living room walls.

$15 - Mantel
A 1x8 and 1x4 is formed into a box shelf for the mantel and painted with textured paint to mimic the mortar in the fireplace.

$45 - TV Cabinet
A TV cabinet is given an interesting finish with gel stain. The stain is brushed on then small circles are created with a craft brush.

$60 - Rug
A shaggy white rug is placed in the living room and a graphic-patterned rug is placed in the entry.

$11 - Throw and Pillows
Sculati creates do-it-yourself chenille pillows out of four layers of fabric. Choose four fabrics with ends that fray easily (wash and dry a small piece to test it first), then cut the fabric into 22-inch squares. Layer the four fabrics and sew them together on the diagonal in one-half inch rows. Next, cut through the top three layers only. Finally, wash and dry as normal.

$35 - Entryway Accessories
Pieces include a light fixture, table lamp, mirror and cushion for the existing bench.

$25 - Toy Box
The plastic bin is replaced with a small cabinet.

$487 - Total Cost