So the weather outside is frightful. That doesn’t mean your home should be. Although spring is typically the time homeowners begin renovation projects, there are great benefits to revitalizing your abode in the the winter months. For one, discounts. You can usually find cheaper materials and decor in the off-seasons. On top of that, if you’re looking to go big, permit approvals typically take less time. Here are a few simple ways you can cure your home of the winter blahs!
1) Freshen up the paint
Are your bland walls making you groan? Give them a fresh coat of paint! Elle Decor revealed recently that the colors energizing coral, hunter green and misty blue are some of the top trends for 2019:
Just be sure to crack a window unless you are using environmentally-friendly, low VOC paint. Check out the DIY Network’s recommendations on what type of paint to use for which project HERE.
Another option is to try a stencil. They are a sleek alternative to designer wallpaper and won’t break the bank if you DIY. You can also use them on floors and furniture.
Inspiration Station
How to Stencil (Country Living)
Personalize Your Home with 10 Stencil Projects (Bob Villia)
Stencil Inspiration (Royal Design Stencils)
2) Add a backsplash
There are countless ways you can customize your kitchen with a beautiful backsplash. It can be very affordable and you can really let your personality shine through with subway tile, glass, metal or whatever your creative mind can get away with. A backsplash is also much easier to clean and repels against smelly odor that can be absorbed in the walls from the deviousness that is taco night.
Inspiration Station
Backsplash Inspiration Gallery (Better Homes & Gardens)
7 Budget Backsplash Projects (DIY Network)
3) Save $$$ on your energy bill
Adding insulation can save you big bucks on your energy bill, especially if you live in an older home. Older homes typically have less insulation than modern homes and over time all home insulation starts to degrade. The first step is to determine if you actually need it. Energy.gov says an energy assessment is necessary either by a qualified home energy auditor or by performing it yourself. They offer a comprehensive guide HERE.
Another way to save money is to purchase a smart thermostat. They turn off when no one is home and target temperatures to certain rooms. CNET recommends some of the top brands HERE.
4) Let there be light
An easy way to make your home look and feel more warm and inviting is to invest in the right lighting. Whether its installing dimmers, switching to LED, or heading down to Home Goods and checking out some new floor lamps, there are many ways you can go from drab to fab.
Inspiration Station
15 Beautiful Living Room Lighting Ideas (The Spruce)
Chic Home Lighting Ideas (HGTV)
Interior Home Lighting Ideas (Home Depot)
5) Update bathroom fixtures
It’s all in the details. Consider replacing hardware like faucets, door handles, towel bars and toilet paper holders so that they better fit your style and match one another. If you don’t want to buy new, consider refinishing them.
Inspiration Station
Low-Cost Bathroom Options (Better Homes & Gardens)
How to Make Affordable Bath Updates (The Home Depot)