Seven smart fixes: simple DIY home improvement ideas that won’t break the bank
Tackling home improvement can be daunting, especially if you’re doing it by yourself. Luckily, there are lots of simple ways to give your home a sharper and more upscale look without breaking the bank. Explore the project ideas to get a sense of what’s out there but be sure to view a few video tutorials before getting started.
Give bathroom cabinets a facelift
If you inherited bathroom cabinets that suffer from a dated, faux-80s look, one simple project idea is to give cabinets a freshening up. You can redress cabinets in a dark espresso color or opt for a lighter shade to balance the color of the walls. After removing existing hardware and nobs, and stripping the existing finish, sand down wood before lathering on your luxurious new look.
Add crown molding
Applied to the space between the top of walls and ceiling, crown molding can add a nice touch and dynamic shape to drab and flat walls. Crown molding can be purchased online or at a local hardware store and can be installed using only a miter box and saw to install (to cut corners so they fit snuggly).
Create your own throw pillows
For those willing to challenge and up their sewing game, creating new throw pillows is an inexpensive way to add warmth and personality to any room. You can choose a fabric pattern that compliments the furniture or room and use leftover fabric to create table runners to tie the room together.
Paint tub and tile
If you inherited a bathroom painted an unflattering shade of pink or pea green, your options can feel limited. Ripping out and removing ceramic tile is not only expensive, it can be time-consuming and tedious. It can also be unnecessary—just paint over it! Fresh colors can help brighten even the drabbest of bathrooms and can serve as a short-term fix until you’re ready to full gut and renovate your bathroom.
Replace and install antique hardware
If you love your existing wood cabinets or furniture but just want to give them a bolder look, opt for this simple fix. You can scour antique stores for the matching set of nobs or handles or order complete sets online from collectors. New hardware can be installed using just a screwdriver and can add a subtle, eye-catching flare to your favorite pieces.
Faux concrete countertop
If your kitchen features outdated and tired-looking countertops, you can opt to install faux concrete fixtures. By combining existing refinishing materials, DIY home decorators can create the sleek appearance of concrete without the hefty price tag. This stylistic fix can also be applied to bathroom counters to add a chic and monochromatic feel.
Open up room with a mirror
One surefire and simple way to make a tiny bedroom seem larger is by employing the use of mirrors. One effective strategy is to position one large mirror (or a few medium-sized ones) on a wall that also faces windows—this helps draw in and reflect light, and also captures the outdoor view to make a tiny room more dynamic.