Bedrooms are our sanctuaries: a place to retreat, rest and revive. If yours has been lacking a bit of love lately, perhaps it’s time to give it some new character.

Breathing new life into a bedroom with a few wallet-friendly fixes and fresh interior design ideas can instantly change the vibe and create an inspiring haven that you just can’t wait to get home to every night.

Here are five ways to transform and makeover a bedroom for less than $500.

#1 Fresh paint

If using such a bold color, keep walls neutral and lift them up with a fresh lick of paint.

Consider this: cool whites feature undertones of green, blue and grey and work well in rooms with lots of natural light.

Warm whites are best if your room doesn’t receive much sunlight; the undertones of yellow, red and brown make them perfect for transforming bedrooms into warm, intimate sanctums.

Choosing the right shade of white for your bedroom is essential. Picture: Getty Images

#2 New bedding

Weaving a bold color through your bedroom is a great way to liven it up.

Dark green is an ongoing color trend, so try using it as an accent with a dark green throw or some emerald cushions over a crisp white quilt set. Or, have it as the key player in your makeover.

#3 Bedside table lamps

Lamps add a sweet touch to any room in the house, but when choosing bedroom lighting keep it subdued.

Look for CFL and LED light bulbs; they allow you to customize the mood of your space.

Keep lighting dim in the bedroom, it’s a sanctuary after all. Picture: Getty Images

#4 Drawer Handles

Give your old furniture a fresh face and revamp a chest of drawers by replacing the old knobs with one-of-a-kind decorative handles.

This is a savvy, cost-saving approach and new drawer handles will add instant personality and spark to any room.

#5 Wall art

A bedroom makeover is easy when you add a new statement piece of art or photography.

If you’re opting for a theme that combines elements of nature and natural timbers with neutral walls and a statement quilt cover, keep things abstract. Go for bold wall art that complements your overall look.

Bold, abstract art can easily transform a bedroom, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. Picture: Getty

Originally published as 5 ways to make over a bedroom for under $500 by Kristy Barratt.