Groovy Pad Goes Contemporary

The ceiling border was scraped off the wall with a mixture of equal parts of vinegar and water. The new crown molding that replaced it is a simple way to add extra value to a room. The homeowners' furniture gets refinished by applying liquid sander, some primer and then a coat of brown paint.

The 1970s den (not shown) made a miraculous jump into the future with a fresh coat of paint, furniture that fits the scale of the room, a designer carpet and accessories.

Cost breakdown:

bathroom upgrade $962
headboard and furniture $134
cornice $75
window treatments $85
chairs $223
rugs $120
paint and accessories $392

Total: $1,991

Bathroom products:

paint, Benjamin Moore's Nimbus Gray, eggshell, 2131-50, and Smokestack Gray, eggshell, 2131-40, Pineapple Paint Company
light fixtures: Three-Light Bronze Scroll, 121816, coffee marble glass globe shades, 121816 and Flush Mount One-Light Rustic Brown, 170553

Guest bedroom products:

mirror, 018528323, Marshalls
paint, Benjamin Moore's Sandy White, eggshell, 2148-50, Pineapple Paint Company
bedding, 007665776267, Wal-Mart
panels for guest bedroom headboard, 07665778244, Kmart
primer, liquid sandpaper and spray adhesive, The Home Depot
batting and foam, JoAnn

Den products:

candles, A.C. Moore
fresh flowers, Giant Foods
window treatments, Westport Plaid Ivory, 87276100082, Bed, Bath & Beyond
paint, Benjamin Moore's Georgian Green, eggshell, HC-115, Pineapple Paint Company