Easy Upgrades

Lately, I have been looking at my home with an objective eye.  Why? Because all too often I see homeowners get too comfortable in their space and then when they finally decide to do some renos it is so costly and such a huge production that they just don't.  So I've been looking around my home and making some minor tweaks here and there and wow, does it ever make a difference!  You don't have to drop a bundle on a kitchen reno try switching out your hardware or maybe a new kitchen faucet (like I did).

Here are some easy fixes for your home.

Update your lamps with new shades, try colour or black or a new simpler shape for a more streamlined look

Update your accent cushions with designer fabrics, a bit of a splurge but maybe just do the fronts of the pillows and save with a solid for the back

 

Replace the legs on your sofa, opt for sleeker lines

Sew drapery rings to ready-made flat panels.  This gives them a custom look (without the price) and they will open more easily too

 

Try re-framing your favourite photos and create a gallery wall.  Less clutter on surfaces (so less dusting) and it's a great way to show off the people you love or the places you have traveled.

Switch out the old hardware in your bathrooms and kitchen - it's amazing what a $2.99 handle can do to a room!

Spray paint your outdoor wicker or metal furniture instead of buying all new stuff.  If you live in a cooler climate like me with a short summer it's hard to justify the price of new furniture so I spray paint mine.

 

Spray paint your builder-grade brass doorknobs in a matte black for a fresh facelift with the cost of replacing them..  You can even do this for the brass surround of your fireplace just get a spray paint that is resistant to heat

This summer lighten up that dark furniture with some slipcovers!

If you don't have a kitchen back splash think about installing on this year.  chances are it isn't a big space so you could splurge a bit on an expensive tile - this classic shape like a subway tile but you can get creative with material.  Glass subway tiles look amazing!


Switch out the old builder grade or 1980's light fixture especially the ones in the entry and dining room, they make the most impact and are the most viewed.

Take a look at some of your older pieces, could you give them new life (paint job or new fabric?) or how about a new use?  An old bench with new paint and some fabric would be a great addition to an entry or mudroom.