Affordable Amazon Finds: A Shoppable Guide to Elevate Your Space on a Budget

Decorating your home doesn't have to be expensive. With these affordable Amazon finds, you can give your space a stylish upgrade without breaking the bank. From cozy reading chairs to moody wall art, these pieces will help you create a home that feels uniquely you. Happy shopping!

Shed to Sauna Oasis: Our Ultimate Backyard Spa Transformation

There’s something magical about a DIY project that gets the creative juices flowing, and this one? It’s a whole new level of amazing. What started as a dusty old shed filled with cobwebs and forgotten lawn tools has been transformed into a luxury sauna retreat—complete with a bubbling hot tub. Yes, we took a humble shed, gave it a major glow-up, and turned it into a cozy, relaxing backyard oasis. The sauna itself was surprisingly affordable!

Ready to see how we did it? Let’s dive in.

From Storage to Spa: The Vision

We had this old, neglected shed sitting on a deck in the backyard, and we thought, “Why not turn this into something people actually use?” The shed was a basic, somewhat forgotten structure, mostly used for storing old tools and random outdoor gear. With its dusty floors, bare walls, and zero personality, it was far from inspiring. But where others saw clutter, we saw untapped potential, especially with that fantastic deck overlooking the forest. I mean, come on—talk about unused potential!

With solid walls and ample space, we knew this could be transformed into something much more exciting than a storage area. Our vision was clear: create a tranquil retreat where you could enjoy a sauna session and unwind in a hot tub, all while staying close to nature. And so, the journey began to turn this shed into a serene spa haven.

Before: The Shed’s Exterior Transformation

Before the magic happened, the shed’s exterior was a bit of a forgotten corner on the deck. It sat there, an unassuming structure that was part of a larger, underutilized outdoor space. The deck itself was decent but lacked character.

The Shed’s Exterior Makeover

Fast forward to the "after," and it's hard to believe this is the same space. We transformed the deck into a warm, inviting entrance to the sauna retreat! We painted the exterior in our favorite shade of black, "Iron Ore," which added a modern, sophisticated touch. To further elevate the look, we replaced the old storage door with double patio doors, flooding the interior with natural light and seamlessly connecting the sauna to the outdoor living space. This exterior makeover not only enhanced the shed's appearance but also integrated it beautifully into the deck’s overall design. Now, let's step inside...

Interior Design: Embracing Minimalism and Serenity

For the sauna's interior, we opted for a minimalist design to cultivate a serene, spa-like atmosphere. Our aim was to create a calming retreat that feels both elegant and functional. To enhance durability and waterproofing, we installed large format tiles on the floor and continued them up the wall behind the hot tub. For added warmth and texture, we covered the upper half of the wall with bamboo paneling rolls. The installation process was simple, using pneumatic U-shaped fasteners, and the result was a naturally inviting space with minimal effort and cost. This blend of simplicity and sophistication transformed the sauna into the perfect escape. Shop what we used for the walls here

The Sauna: Our Secret to Cozy Comfort

The key player in this transformation is, of course, the sauna. We chose an infrared sauna that checked all the boxes: affordable, compact, and packed with features that bring the spa experience home. The best part? It was totally affordable. You don’t need a massive budget to create a luxurious backyard retreat. If this project has you dreaming about your own backyard spa, you’re in luck! We’ve included a link here so you can shop the exact sauna we used.

In the end, the transformation of this simple shed into a stylish, functional sauna retreat exceeded our expectations. This project shows that it’s absolutely possible to create a beautiful at-home sauna with the right planning and creativity, making it a perfect addition to any outdoor living space!

The Ultimate Guide to Staging Your Home for a Quick Sale

Selling a home can be both exciting and stressful. One of the most effective ways to ensure a swift sale is by staging your home to impress potential buyers. Staging isn't just about making your home look good—it's about creating an environment that allows buyers to envision themselves living there. Here’s your ultimate guide to staging your home for a quick sale.

1. Start with a Deep Clean

A clean home is a must for a successful sale. Begin by giving your home a thorough deep cleaning. Pay attention to details like windows, baseboards, and grout lines. A spotless home signals to buyers that the property has been well cared for and invites them to imagine themselves living in a pristine environment.

2. Declutter and Depersonalize

Less is more when it comes to staging. Remove personal items such as family photos, collectibles, and excess knick-knacks. This helps potential buyers to see the space as a blank canvas and envision their own belongings in it. Decluttering also makes your home look more spacious and organized.

3. Neutralize the Space

Neutral colors appeal to a broad range of buyers. Consider painting walls in neutral shades like beige, gray, or off-white. These colors create a calm, inviting atmosphere and make it easier for buyers to imagine their own style in the space. Ensure that any bold or unusual paint colors are toned down.

4. Enhance Curb Appeal

The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers will see. Enhance your curb appeal by tidying up the yard, trimming hedges, and adding fresh mulch or potted plants. A welcoming front door with a fresh coat of paint and new hardware can also make a big difference.

5. Furniture Arrangement Matters

Arrange your furniture to create a sense of flow and highlight the home’s best features. Avoid overcrowding rooms with too much furniture; instead, choose pieces that enhance the room’s functionality and style. Ensure that each room has a clear purpose, and consider moving or removing furniture that doesn’t contribute to the space.

6. Highlight Key Features

Draw attention to the unique features of your home, such as a fireplace, built-in shelving, or large windows. Arrange furniture and décor to accentuate these features, and make sure they are clean and in good condition. If you have a great view, make sure the windows are clean and unobstructed.

7. Add Fresh and Inviting Touches

Small details can make a big impact. Add fresh flowers, strategically placed candles, or a bowl of fruit to create a welcoming and homely atmosphere. Ensure that each room smells pleasant—consider baking cookies or using air fresheners to create a fresh, inviting aroma.

8. Lighting is Key

Good lighting can transform a space. Maximize natural light by opening blinds and drapes. Use a combination of overhead, task, and accent lighting to brighten up each room. Make sure all light bulbs are working and consider updating outdated fixtures for a more modern look.

9. Stage Each Room

Each room should have a clear function. If you have an extra room, stage it as a bedroom, home office, or playroom to show its potential. Avoid using rooms for purposes they weren’t intended for, as this can confuse buyers about the home’s functionality.

10. Make Minor Repairs

Fix any minor issues that could detract from the home’s appeal. This includes repairing leaky faucets, replacing broken tiles, and patching up holes in walls. Addressing these small problems can give buyers the impression that the home is well-maintained.

11. Hire a Professional Stager

If you’re unsure where to start or want a polished finish, consider hiring a professional stager. A stager can provide expert advice, arrange furniture and décor, and ensure that your home looks its best. Their experience can be invaluable in achieving a quick sale.

Conclusion

Staging your home is a powerful tool in the selling process. By following these tips and creating a clean, neutral, and inviting space, you’ll make it easier for buyers to imagine themselves living in your home. With a little effort and attention to detail, you’ll be well on your way to a quicker and more successful sale. Happy staging!