$45 hacks that Joanna Gaines would definitely approve of

You don’t need a huge budget to make your home feel warm and inviting. Joanna Gaines has built her whole style around thoughtful details—texture, natural tones, and small touches that make a space feel lived in but intentional.

The good news is, you can pull off that same cozy, curated look without spending much at all. With under $45, these home updates bring charm, comfort, and timeless appeal that even Joanna herself would give a nod to.

Add farmhouse hooks by the door

A few wall hooks near the entryway instantly make your space feel organized and lived in. Go for wood or metal hooks that look aged or handmade—they bring that classic farmhouse feel. Hang them on a wood board for a custom touch or mount them directly on the wall.

Use them for hats, bags, or throw blankets to make the area both functional and pretty. It’s a small change that adds warmth and gives your home that “welcome home” look Joanna always creates.

Swap in linen or waffle towels

Good textiles go a long way, and linen or waffle-weave towels can instantly elevate your kitchen or bathroom. They look high-end and fit right in with that natural, neutral aesthetic Joanna is known for.

Fold a few neatly on open shelves or hang them from a peg rack for texture and warmth. You can usually grab a set for under $45, and they’ll make your space feel more styled and intentional without being overdone.

Bring in a small olive tree or faux greenery

Joanna always adds greenery to soften a space, and a small olive tree or potted plant does exactly that. Whether it’s real or faux, the muted green leaves add life and contrast against white walls and warm wood tones.

Place it in a woven basket or ceramic pot to complete the look. Even a faux olive tree from a home store can pull a room together and make it feel cozy, calm, and naturally styled.

Upgrade your soap dispensers

Plastic soap bottles stick out in an otherwise pretty kitchen or bathroom. Replace them with glass or ceramic dispensers in neutral tones for a designer look on a small budget.

It’s one of those tiny upgrades that changes the whole countertop. Pair them with a wooden tray or small plant, and your sink area will look styled without feeling staged.

Hang woven baskets for wall art

Woven baskets add warmth and texture like few other décor pieces can. Hang a few in varying sizes on a blank wall for that farmhouse-meets-modern feel Joanna always nails.

You can find them at thrift stores, craft markets, or even discount retailers for under $45 total. The neutral tones blend well with any style, and the organic texture makes the space feel layered and homey.

Use peel-and-stick wallpaper on one wall

Accent walls don’t have to break the bank. Peel-and-stick wallpaper in a subtle stripe, floral, or shiplap pattern can transform a plain room into something that feels custom and cozy.

Stick with soft, natural tones—think muted greens, warm grays, or beige. It’s renter-friendly, removable, and adds that touch of farmhouse charm without the mess or expense of real wood paneling.

Add a soft throw with fringe

Draping a throw blanket across your couch or armchair instantly makes a room look finished. Choose one with tassels or fringe in a neutral or muted color.

It’s cozy, practical, and adds that layered, lived-in feel Joanna is known for. For under $45, it’s one of the easiest ways to make your living space feel inviting year-round.

Replace dated cabinet knobs

Swapping outdated cabinet hardware can completely change how your kitchen or bathroom looks. Go for vintage-inspired knobs or simple matte black pulls for a timeless farmhouse feel.

Even if you only replace the ones on a small vanity or dresser, the upgrade makes everything look more intentional. It’s quick, affordable, and adds that subtle designer touch that feels handcrafted.

Add a jute or braided rug

Natural fiber rugs add texture and warmth, especially in small spaces like entryways, kitchens, or laundry rooms. A round or rectangular jute rug grounds the space and fits perfectly with Joanna’s style.

Look for one with simple edging or subtle patterning to keep it versatile. It’ll instantly make any area feel more put together without overpowering the rest of your décor.

Style a tray with everyday items

Joanna often uses trays to pull small spaces together. Grab a wooden or metal tray and add a candle, a small plant, and a pretty bottle or jar to make a simple but styled vignette.

It works on coffee tables, counters, or even in bathrooms. The best part? You can use things you already own. It’s proof that good design doesn’t need a big budget—just a little attention to detail.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.