Nothing makes your home feel more inviting than updates that reflect your personality. While major cosmetic upgrades can be a daunting—and costly—endeavor, you don’t have to go to extremes to make a big difference. Pick an area of your home that you’d like to revitalize and do a few cosmetic updates on a budget. You may be surprised by how easy it can be!
The following are five updates you can complete in just a day or two, with maximum effect for minimum expense:
Enhance curb appeal in a snap.
Make a great first impression and feel refreshed every time you come home: paint the front door a new color, replace your old mailbox, plant some flowers or hang some blooming baskets, or add artistic house numbers.
Add backsplash.
Adding backsplash can be an expensive look for an affordable price. It’s also an easy way to add the colors and style you want in the kitchen or bathroom with very little downtime. You use these rooms every day, so make them pop! Make it fun with subway tiles, embossed tin squares, or stick-on stone.
Give your cabinets a facelift.
Are your kitchen cabinets reminiscent of the ’70s in avocado green or harvest gold? Bathrooms in old pine? A fresh coat of paint and new hardware are inexpensive ways to bring your kitchen and bathroom cabinets back into this decade. These are also easy updates for any level of experience. You can have a whole new look in less than a weekend—especially if you get a friend to help.
Light it up!
An often-overlooked detail, lighting fixtures can be an obvious out-of-date giveaway. Don’t leave your family in the dark: change out light covers, purchase some stylish lamps or new lampshades, or install dimmer switches to give your lights a modern look.
Start small.
If you want a manageable start, choose the smallest room in your home to update first. A half-bath or laundry room is a safe place to experiment with bold colors, patterned wallpaper, or unique artwork. A small room means a big change with little investment—and the sense of accomplishment from finishing one room may be just the nudge you need for the next update.
Image credit: “Paint chips” by HomeSpotHQ via Flickr.
