10 Creative and Budget-Friendly Ways to Make Your Home Feel Like a Resort
You don’t have to spend a fortune to transform your home into a relaxing, resort-inspired haven. With a little creativity and some strategic changes, you can enjoy vacation vibes every day—without leaving your house. As part of Alexander Homes with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, my husband and I know that small, thoughtful touches can make a huge difference. Here are 10 ways to elevate your home on a budget.
1. Create a Luxurious Aromatherapy Shower
Bring spa vibes to your bathroom with an aromatherapy shower upgrade. Hang a $5 bundle of fresh eucalyptus (available at grocery stores) from your showerhead. The steam releases calming oils, giving your bathroom that high-end resort scent without the cost.
2. DIY Mood Lighting with Dimmers and LED Strips
Lighting can instantly change a room’s feel. Add dimmer switches to your living room or bedroom lights for under $20, or install warm LED light strips under furniture or cabinets to mimic the soft, ambient lighting of a luxury resort.
3. Set Up an Outdoor Escape for Less
Transform your patio or backyard with a cozy retreat space. Buy an inexpensive hammock or string lights (both can often be found for under $30). Add a few outdoor throw pillows or a colorful outdoor rug to create a getaway atmosphere right at home.
4. Upgrade Your Bedding the Smart Way
Instead of buying a whole new bedding set, invest in soft, crisp sheets and a few oversized throw pillows. Use a simple white duvet cover to mimic the minimalist look of resort beds. You can also add a folded blanket at the foot of the bed for that “turndown service” feel.
5. Bring the Resort Scents Indoors
Skip pricey candles and make your home smell like a resort with inexpensive essential oils. Create a DIY room spray with lavender, coconut, or citrus oils mixed with water in a spray bottle.
6. Enhance Your Bathrooms with Simple Touches
Resorts pay attention to the small details in bathrooms. Roll your towels spa-style and store them in a basket. Swap out your old soap dispensers for sleek, refillable glass ones (found for $10–$15 online) and add a small plant for a fresh, clean look.
7. Use Mirrors to Reflect Light and Space
Adding mirrors is a cheap way to make any space feel larger and brighter, just like the expansive rooms in a resort. Look for thrifted mirrors or lightweight peel-and-stick options to create the illusion of more light and openness.
8. Add a Pop of Greenery
Resorts are known for lush plants, but you don’t need a green thumb—or a big budget—to recreate the look. Start with low-maintenance plants like pothos, snake plants, or even faux greenery. Place them in stylish, inexpensive pots to elevate your space.
9. Turn a Corner into a Coffee Bar
You don’t need a big kitchen to create a resort-worthy coffee station. Use a small cart or tray to display your coffee maker, mugs, and a few luxury extras like flavored syrups or fancy sugar cubes. You’ll feel like you’re in a hotel lobby every morning.
10. Showcase Your Home with Affordable Marketing
One way resorts stand out is through their stunning photography—and your home can, too! My husband and I, through Alexander Homes, specialize in creating beautiful visuals with drone photography and videography. Whether you’re upgrading for yourself or thinking of selling, showcasing your space with professional-quality imagery doesn’t have to break the bank.
Enjoy Resort Living Every Day
These small changes can have a big impact on how your home feels—without draining your budget. At Alexander Homes, we believe every home deserves to feel special. If you’re ready for more ideas or want to explore a new property that fits your dream lifestyle, we’re here to help!
