When it comes to making those much-needed updates to your home, you may be asking yourself where should you even start? Even if you’re not committing each and every weekend to making improvements to your home, it’s likely that you have a list of projects you’d like to complete once you have the time and the money to do so. While there are some home improvement projects that can take days to finish and some require a sizable investment, there are many that are actually easier and more affordable than you might think. If you’re looking to give your home a facelift this weekend, here are seven home improvement projects you can pull off in just a couple of days.
#1 Update Kitchen Cabinets
It could be that your kitchen has good bones and is completely functional, but just looks tired, outdated and in desperate need of a facelift. A quick and easy way to transform the appearance of your kitchen is by updating your cabinets. Repainting your cabinets and swapping out old hardware with new knobs and pulls is a simple fix and shouldn’t take more than a couple of days to complete. Make sure to prep your surfaces properly and consider mixing up colors for a unique look. You can find new hardware at your local home improvement store or home decor store. Other ideas for updating your kitchen cabinets include adding task lighting, converting your cabinets to open shelves by removing the doors or installing roll-out shelving to improve functionality.
#2 Upgrade Window Treatments
Upgrading your home’s window treatments can be a fast and inexpensive way to breathe new life into your space. You have two options: you can reinvigorate your existing window coverings by cleaning them, washing them, sewing a new pattern into the fabric (if you know how), etc., or you can replace them with something new. There are a few things to consider when buying new window treatments for your home, such as the type and style you want, fabric, color, control mechanisms and so on. If budget is a concern, consider investing in affordable blinds that are modestly priced but still look and feel luxurious.
#3 Repaint
If you feel like the interior design of your home has grown stale, consider repainting your walls, doors, windows, trim and whatever else you think could really use a refresher. There are an endless number of creative painting techniques that will help you revitalize the look of any space. Coat an entire room in a fresh, new color or try something fun and unique, such as painting a bright and vibrant accent wall in a neutral room or adding life and character to a room by using stencils to create intriguing patterns.
#4 Add Storage
Whether your home lacks closet space or you’re simply trying to organize the space you have, there are a variety of projects you can complete in just a few short days that will provide you with all the storage you need. If you’re an experienced DIY-er, it’s likely that you have the skills to create your own storage solutions. Try making your own bookcase, a storage bench or wall coat rack from scratch. However, if handmade crafts aren’t exactly your forte, take a trip down to your local thrift store and see if you can find gently used furniture that can be repurposed and upcycled for your storage needs. Simply add a fresh coat of paint and you now have the perfect one-of-a-kind piece to help you stash your belongings and declutter your home.
#5 Swap Out Your Lighting
A quick way to add flair and ambiance to your home is by updating your light fixtures. Choosing the right light fixtures is crucial to your home’s design for a couple of reasons. First, it ensures you get the appropriate lighting for your space. Second, it helps you tie your home’s design and architectural style together. When shopping for new light fixtures, there are a variety of factors you’ll need to consider. For example, you’ll need to decide on the type of lighting you need, whether you’re looking for general lighting solutions, functional task lighting or stylish accent lighting. You’ll also need to choose the kind of fixture you want—such as ceiling, wall or free-standing fixtures—as well as whether you want lighting that’s modern and contemporary or rustic and traditional.
#6 Work on Your Landscaping
When it comes to making home improvement updates, don’t forget about your landscaping! According to Home Advisor, the average cost of hiring a landscape designer to upgrade your backyard is around $4,394—yikes! The good news is that you don’t have to hire a professional landscaper to transform your outdoor space into a beautiful retreat your friends and family will love spending time in. A beautifully landscaped yard can help boost curb appeal and improve your guests’ impression when they see your home for the first time. You should be able to find most of what you’ll need in the gardening center of your local home improvement store. In just a weekend, you can add mulch, greenery, flower beds, outdoor lighting, a water fountain or other enhancements that will make your home’s landscaping the talk of the neighborhood.
#7 Go Green
If you’re like most people and you love saving money (while helping the environment in the process), consider going green. There are a many simple home updates you can make to help reduce your energy usage and improve your home’s energy efficiency that will result in saving money on your utility bills. For example, you can replace your old thermostat with a newer model, unplug your devices when they’re not being used or switch out incandescent light bulbs with LED’s, which are much more energy-efficient.
What else is on your list of home improvement projects to tackle this weekend? Begin by using these seven ideas as inspiration and start transforming your home a weekend at a time.