Phase 2 of The House Behind The Trees ~ The downstairs #TeelsBuildaHouse

So we are starting the downstairs ... I HATE to say basement because we had a basement in our old home, where you opened a door and went down stairs separated from anything else. It was a finished basement complete with a bedroom, craft room, family/game room and we spent a lot of time there ~ our oldest son moved down there in jr high and stayed through high school ... until we finished the master suite in the attic then he moved back up to the bedroom floor with his brother and sister.  So here our downstairs is open to the rest of the house, you can see through to the outside from the top of the stairs going down because we have a wall of windows down there as well.  We really didn't plan to have a kiddo down there but since we are having to do a switch-a-roo with rooms (I'll explain later) he is moving home soon and will be downstairs. Anyhoo, our downstairs will house our main family room, our middle sons room, a full bath and kitchenette.  I thought it would be fun ...

Low-Cost Updates That Will Make Your Home Look Expensive

 Give your home a high-end look without embarking on an extensive and costly remodel. A few quick, low-cost updates can make your home appear newer, larger, and more upscale. Thanks to BHG here are a few ideas that will give your space fresh appeal with these budget-friendly ways that make it look more expensive.

Paint Trim ~ Trim work highlights your home's features, drawing extra attention to walls, windows, staircases, and more. Painting trim an updated color can further define these elements and contribute to a high-end look. Cover dated-looking woodwork with a fresh coat of white paint, or choose a contrasting trim color, such as black, for a distinctly modern effect.
📸JOYELLE WEST


Make the entry a focal point ~ You might not have the cash for a full-on exterior makeover, but improving your entryway can make a big impact on your home's curb appeal. Use a dark hue to make the point of entry pop, then flank the front door with tall planters. Finish the look by adding symmetrical plantings on either side of the walkway.
📸ED GOHLICH


Create the illusion of higher ceilings ~ Soaring ceiling heights are a striking feature in many expensive homes. If physically raising the ceiling height isn't within your remodeling budget, use window treatments to create the illusion of a taller ceiling. Hang curtain rods closer to the ceiling, and opt for long, flowing drapes to give the room a grander feel.
📸BRIE WILLIAMS


Update light fixtures ~ If that eyesore overhead makes you cringe every time you flip the light switch, ditch it! Swapping out an old light fixture for a new one instantly updates the ambiance of your space. You can easily tackle the job yourself with no electrician needed.
📸JONNY VALIANT


Create fake built-ins ~ If you like the look of library-like shelves but don't want to splurge on a custom design, use bookcases to create the appearance of floor-to-ceiling built-ins. In this living room, four tall bookcases were stacked and secured to the wall with anchors. To reinforce the built-in look, consider adding trim along the top of the shelving units
📸KIM CORNELISON


Start with a neutral palette ~ Have you ever noticed how most high-end homes are awash in neutrals? Neutral color schemes feel calm, clutter-free, and classic. Bring high style to rooms by choosing neutral hues for anything that's expensive to update, such as floors, fixtures, and upholstery, and using accessories to introduce bold colors and textures. A neutral base lets colorful accents take center stage.
📸JEFF HERR


Add Wallpaper ~ Boldly patterned walls can create an upscale feel, but the treatment doesn't have to be expensive. Because peel-and-stick wallpaper tends to be less pricey than the traditional variety, it makes a great budget-friendly update for your home (and it's much easier to apply). Try this wall treatment in a small space, such as an entryway, powder room, or laundry room, to add major style while keeping costs low.
📸SARAH DORIO


Update and unify hardware finishes ~ Give a bathroom or kitchen a sparkly new look by coordinating hardware finishes. Replacing mismatched accessories with new, coordinating pieces is an affordable update that will make your space look polished and luxurious. Consider outfitting fixtures with matte black hardware for a sleek, on-trend look that will age well.
📸JULIE SOEFER


Add molding ~ Give plain walls a paneled look by . This treatment, known as picture-framing, is a simple way to draw eyes to certain areas of the room. Keep the spacing even and the edges aligned for a symmetrical, eye-pleasing look.
📸BRIE WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY, INC.

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