Tuck Tips: Refresh for Less
Refreshing your home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a few thoughtful decor updates, you can dramatically change the look and feel of a space—without a renovation crew or a five-figure budget.
Take inspiration from Jen Shea’s and Dave Gamble's kitchen transformation: what started as a $50,000 vision turned into a stunning $5,000 reality by strategically using paint, new hardware, and peel-and-stick tile. It’s proof enough that small changes really can make a big impact! Here are five simple Tuck Tips that offer maximum transformation with minimal investment:
1. Fresh Paint
Jen & Dave's Bedroom featuring the Gus* Carmichael Bed, which is on sale now, photographed by Kelly Lawson
Never underestimate the power of a paintbrush. At Tuck, we love wallpaper, but we also appreciate a good paint colour! A fresh coat of colour is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to refresh a room. Whether you opt for a soft neutral or a bold statement shade, paint resets the tone and brings fresh energy into a space—literally overnight!
Jen and Dave's bedroom, for example, as pictured above, underwent a moody, yet still simple transformation from white walls to this beautiful Hunter Green paint.
2. Use What You Have
Before you buy something new, shop your own shelves and closets! We're always pulling out items from cabinets and drawers—if you kept it, there's likely a reason. Put it out on display. Style a corner with meaningful pottery, framed artwork, old books, or keepsakes you love. Layering in these personal touches instantly gives your space charm and character.
This enclave at Judith’s cottage is decorated with found and foraged objects, antiques, and a beautiful Four Hands Muji Lamp.
Judith's Cottage Enclave styled with Forehands The Muji Table Lamp photographed by Kelly Lawson
3. Swap Out Cushions
Changing out cushions is one of the quickest ways to update a room. Think colour, texture, and layering. It’s also a great opportunity to play with seasonal tones and patterns without a major commitment. Bonus: it’s affordable and fun to switch things up when the mood (or the weather) changes. The shot below from Jen and Dave's bonus room shows how new cushions instantly cozy up the space.
Jen & Dave's Bonus Room styled with the Noah Cushion & Gabriella Embroidered Cushion, photographed by Kelly Lawson
4. Try A New Rug
When buying new furniture isn't in the cards for you, consider getting a new rug to transform a room. A rug can define a space and instantly anchor your furniture. Whether you’re layering it over hardwood or tile, or cozying up a bedroom or living room, rugs create visual interest and comfort. The best part? There are stylish options for every budget—and we’re proud to offer free shipping across Canada on Loloi rugs!
Kim & Steve's living room styled with Loloi's Skye Rug in the colour way Denim/Brick, photographed by Kelly Lawson
This bold Skye Rug in the colour way Denim/Brick in our clients Kim & Steve’s living room adds warmth and personality—without breaking the bank. The Skye Rug collection by Loloi has lots of affordable and beautiful rugs to choose from.
Want to learn more about rugs? Check out our other blogs for serval posts related to rug purchasing and styling, including our Rug Styling Guide blog here.
5. Add Plants
Plants bring life, movement, and softness to any room. A little greenery on a shelf, sideboard, or windowsill adds colour and calm.
If you're not a green thumb or you just can’t commit to that ‘plant-parent’ life right now, we also love faux plants to achieve a similar effect. For tips on why we love faux plants so much and ways to style them, check out this blog: Faux Real! The Top Five Reasons to Opt for Artificial Plants Over the Real Thing!
Feeling Inspired & Want More Tuck Tips?
At Tuck, we believe beautiful spaces should be accessible. Whether you're making one small change or refreshing your whole home, our team is here to help with practical, stylish ideas. Book your complimentary half-hour in-store home consultation today!
