We’ve all been there, flipping through a magazine, looking at photos of fabulous living spaces and wondering how to get some fabulous minus Steve Wynn’s fabulous wallet.

We reached out to local designer Melissa Roche Amos of Parlor 430 Design Studio for simple, inexpensive ways to improve your surroundings—and impress your houseguests.

Throw pillows. Pops of color and texture will dress up your sad sofa or chair. Amos recommends various sizes and shapes to further enhance the space with depth and interest.

Lighting. Candles to floor lamps, Amos suggests adding ambient light. Is your overhead fixture casting a nasty glare? Remedy that with a dimmer.

Accent wall. “Roll up your sleeves and get to painting,” Amos advises. A feature or accent wall, like a headboard wall or television wall, will add some drama.

Flowers. This is Amos’ favorite tip for designing on a dime, as a grocery-store orchid will add style to any space and last for months. Or opt for fresh-cut flowers in different-sized vases to add color, dimension and scent.

Music. While not necessarily a design aesthetic, a soundtrack can be the best way to set the mood for your guests. Amos suggests a good Bluetooth speaker or a television set to a music channel. “That is why great restaurants and retail stores always play music.”