10 Chicest Ways to Remodel Your Home
How many times have you said you’re going to repaint the kitchen, swap out the furniture in your bedroom, or upgrade your appliances? We all have an endless to-do list of things to change around the house, but how often do we actually get around to them? Whether your place is big or small, it deserves to feel chic and welcoming.
Let’s face it: remodeling is expensive. Between hiring an expert and purchasing materials, costs can quickly rise when you tackle even smaller household projects. Yet, that doesn’t mean you can’t achieve more with the money and time you do have.
The trick is in the details. While not all of us have budgets for extensive renovations, that doesn’t mean we can’t work with the existing space. Sure, you might not be able to add an extra closet in your hallway or double the size of your bedroom, but you can change the smaller touches that contribute to the overall style of your home.
While we all want the latest and greatest trends to inspire our home design, these fleeting styles come and go in the blink of an eye. You need something that will last a lifetime. This guide explains 10 of the chicest ways to remodel your home not just for today but for the future.
1. Under the Stairs Revamp
Take a hint from Harry Potter and transform the area under your stairs. You’ll be surprised how much square footage you’ve been wasting. Updating under the stairs will require some construction, but it’s minimal, affordable, and flexible. What can you do with this newfound stair space? You can’t go wrong with a built-in bookshelf, cozy lounge, or home office.
2. Staircase Update
While the area under your stairs is a great starting place, the stairs themselves might be in need of an update. Luckily, redoing your stairs is painless and easy. With some patience, you can definitely manage this DIY yourself. Treat your wooden staircase to a fresh stain or swap out floorboards for some eye-catching material. For a modern touch, add a pop of color to your railing or accents.
3. Upgraded Furniture
One of the easiest ways to remodel your home is as simple as purchasing new furniture. If you’re like most Americans, you probably buy your furniture from a big-name retailer. While these are undoubtedly convenient, you’re likely to run into trouble with longevity, quality, and style.
Instead, think of your furniture as an investment. These are functional pieces that form the foundation of your entire home. Think about it this way: you can buy a trendy table for your kitchen from IKEA that falls apart in a few years, or you can outfit your space with an Amish dining table that’s functional, stylish, and built to last.
4. DIY Kitchen Island
Kitchen islands are as luxurious as they are useful. Even if you’re more of a microwave maven than a dedicated chef, you can still benefit from some extra space in the kitchen. While a large island addition can be pricey, you can do a smaller renovation yourself. You can make over some cabinets and match them to your kitchen style, or even just modify an existing piece of furniture. You’ll finally have somewhere to store those piles of cookbooks!
5. Cozy Fireplace
Fireplaces are the focal point in any room, but most homes today are built without them. If you don’t have a wood burning fireplace in your house, you can achieve the same cozy warmth with a few faux modifications.
Add your own gas or electric fireplace insert that’s just as warm and chic but without the hassle of a big build. If you’d prefer just honing in on the aesthetic of a fireplace, opt for a mantle instead. Believe it or not, you don’t need an actual fire to feel cozy. Fill the mantle interior with oversized candles, wood logs, or a trendy backsplash.
6. Outdoor Kitchen
Who doesn’t love outdoor eats? If you’re blessed with outdoor space in your home, you need to make sure it’s working for you. Think beyond landscaping and lawn chairs with an outdoor kitchen. It’s easy to build your own with an outdoor grill and some counter space, and this will transform your backyard into an entertainment wonderland. The only downside is that your guests will never want to leave.
7. DIY Bar Cart
Bar carts are a trend we can all get behind. If you have an extra bookshelf or a corner of your home that needs to be livened up, a bar cart/shelf/space might be just what you need. Like an outdoor kitchen, bar space is perfect for entertaining guests (or even just entertaining yourself). Add some chic glassware and your favorite libations, and you’re ready to start serving.
8. Shower
On average, individuals spend over 60 hours a year in the shower. While an average shower is relaxing on its own, a few small upgrades will make this the paradise you never knew you needed. Update the tile and try a new flooring to take your relaxation to new heights. Finally, don’t forget to install a new shower head to feel like you’re stepping into a luxury resort shower every day.
9. New Lighting
A picture might be worth a thousand words, but lighting is what really makes an impact. If you’re relying on your built-in, outdated lighting, it’s time for a change. Light brings an older space into the 21st century and set a distinct mood for your home. Browse the latest trends in lighting technology to see how you can make your own lighting work for you. Don’t be afraid to go bold, be whimsical, and use unconventional technology.
10. Repaint
That new lighting won’t do any good if the walls of your home are still sporting colors from decades ago. Color can age your home, and a fresh coat of paint is a powerful thing. You don’t need a degree in color theory to master the basics of home painting. In general, lighter colors are chic and airy while darker colors pack a real punch of boldness. Decide what you’re trying to say with your room, and say it with the color.
You really can achieve your dream home on any budget. While significant renovations take both time and money, these chic ideas offer a fresh perspective without turning your home into a construction zone. How can you bring your house into the latest century?
