Townhome Transformation

Now the space is stylish and inviting. The homeowner spent some extra money and had the stairs re-covered in Berber carpet. Buyers look for Berber, so for a small area, it is a wise investment with a 90-percent resale return. A light, neutral tone is a safe bet, and a stain guard will increase its value.

Stacked, square shelves divide the living and dining area, but still keep an open feeling. Dark furniture with crisp-white upholstery and an organic wall hanging lend a modern touch to the living area. Two vertical mirrors opposite the side chair add depth and the illusion of more space. The lone desk that was in the dining room was replaced with a contemporary table and chairs.

Cost breakdown:

sod and plants $395
porch furniture $200
living room $610
room divider and tabletop $360
window treatments $80
paint and supplies $75
accessories $275

Total: $ 1,995

Products from Target:

outdoor planters for top of posts, 084150499
doormat, 066060209
living room lamp, 074000338
square end table for living room, 249120093
tall mirrors for living room, 074110366

Products from The Home Depot:

plant, 703287101957
exterior lantern, 046335840317

Products from Pier 1 Imports:

orange pillows used in living and dining rooms, 2106563
winterberries decorative stems for dining room, 2133302
vase on dining table, 2092135
blue seat cushions for dining table, 2108428

Products from JoAnn:

blue burlap fabric, 6726756
black vinyl for cutouts on art project, 3526316

Products from Cost Plus World Market:

studio day sofa, 000000372991
studio chair, 000000383112

Products from Ikea:

shelf for chalkboard wall and entry wall, 14729
square mirrors, 17370