Bring some life to your home this spring and summer with a makeover. After a long and dreary winter, it may be time for some changes, but knowing where to start can be your biggest challenge. Here are some ideas to help you focus on those areas that need enhancing.
To start with, scale down and eliminate all the items and accessories that no longer work. Look at your rooms with a fresh eye, as though you are a potential buyer. Try to be objective about what works and what doesn't. Yes, Aunt Edna's chest has been in the family for a million years, but it may be time to say goodbye to it.
There are a lot of projects homeowners can do themselves. Research at the library and on the Internet can yield a wealth of information. Do-it-yourself centres offer mini workshops that teach homeowners the basics, like how to lay tile and choose paint colours. Finding a balance between renovating and redecorating is an effective way to get the most out of a budget.
The quality and appeal of the kitchen and bathrooms greatly determine the resale value of a home. Stainless steel appliances and granite countertops are prized items in the kitchen. New tile in the bathroom gives a clean look that is very attractive.
Unfortunately, kitchen cupboards, appliances, and bathroom fixtures are some of the most expensive items to replace. The good news is that there are ways to redecorate these rooms without paying a fortune.
Kitchen cabinets can be updated with moulding, new hardware, and paint. Bathrooms can also be spruced up with new lighting, mirrors, and hardware. Another approach is to replace the flooring, preferably with beautiful hardwood, easy-maintenance laminate, or long-lasting ceramic. Natural materials like hardwood and ceramic give a visual look that is stunning.
For a fireplace that needs updating, there are many options. Cover it with MDF board, tile, mouldings, medallions, or scrollwork. You can also consider painting, re-staining, or adding a new mantle. The fireplace is usually the focal point in a living room. Any major changes to it will transform the room and create the "wow" factor you are looking for.
Don't underestimate the power of colour. If all the rooms have been painted safe beige, then it's time to break out of the box. Make a leap towards something more bold and fabulous. Colour is the most personal and effective way to quickly change the style and overall feel of a home.
For example, dated carpet and furniture can be a challenge to work around. One solution is to find ways to harmonize or complement the existing colours in each room. Colour wheels at paint and decorating stores can provide inspiration.
Finally, accessorize! Accessorize! Accessorize! A few well-chosen accessories can create an effortless style. You can transform a room with bold fabrics such as stripes or floral and scenic patterns. However, keep in mind that the current trend is "less is more." Too many accessories will give a busy and cluttered look.
Renovating, redecorating, or a combination of the two will give a sense of satisfaction and bring new energy and life into your home, whether your desire is to create a haven for relaxation, or a sophisticated, vibrant space for entertaining.
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