12 Easy Updates You Can Make to Your Home

For those of you not in tune to what is happening in the interior design world, get ready. Everyone in our industry is busier than ever before and having trouble keeping up with the demand. Contractors can only take on so much work and it's getting to the point that most people will have to wait until Spring to have a renovation done. It's not surprising with the recent pandemic and people being in their homes more than ever. The chair that was uncomfortable is being replaced, the dated paint colors are being updated. The money they were going to use for a luxury vacation is being used for some long overdue home projects.

Before we dig in to share some home projects that will make a huge impact, we wanted to let you know that this episode is sponsored by Currey and Company. Currey is mainly known for their lighting, such as chandeliers, pendants, wall sconces, table and floor lamps and outdoor lighting, however, they have an extensive line of furniture, upholstery and accessories. They have been in business for over 30 year. Their customer service, commitment to craftmanship and quality is what makes them one of our go-to sources.

1. Exterior updates

a. Front door – give it a pop with a new color – our favorites:

• • Sherwin Williams SW6430 Great Green
    
  • Sherwin Williams SW6680 Friendly Yellow
    
  • Sherwin Williams SW6606 Coral Reef
    
  • Sherwin Williams SW6596 Bella Piink
    
  • Sherwin Williams SW6220 Interesting Aqua
    

b. Light Fixtures – When I drive through neighborhoods, they are always way too small. You may not always have a lot of width, and in that case go high. The tiny, corroded brass fixtures that came with the house need an update! Look for taller lanterns for a big impact.

c. Door Handle – I'm not sure what the life span of these is but replacing yours with brand new one depending on the style of your home will give you a bang for your buck. There is a look for modern, rustic, craftsman and traditional homes.

d. House Numbers – Another easy fix that will give your house a fresh look. – A company called Modern House Numbers has some great ones as well as Frontgate.com for a more traditional look.

3. Interior updates

a. Stair Runner – A patterned or textured carpet. Even if you don't have hardwood on the sides, this is a great way to update and freshen up a carpet that gets a lot of wear and tear. You can get creative with patterns or colors or even go with a sisal look, something different than the rest of the carpet in your home.

b. Backsplash – This is a project that is quick and makes a big change. There are so many options to give your kitchen personality. Look for some great inspiration at tilebar.com and thetileshop.com

c. Wallpaper – We continue to preach this, but it is so true, it adds so much to a space! Consider wallpapering a ceiling in a dining room or bathroom.

d. Change out your cabinet hardware. Do a combination of knobs and pulls. Generally, pulls on the doors and knobs on the drawers. One of our favorite sources with several design styles and finishes is Top Knobs.

4. Furniture

a. Swap out mushy pillows and get rid of foam inserts. Upgrade to better quality pillows and forms to add different colors/textures to make the room feel new.

b. Consider replacing chairs in the kitchen with a bench/host and hostess chair – Break up the seating. Instead of having 6 of the exact same chair at a table, consider upholstered chairs with arms at the ends and replacing 2 chairs on the side with a bench. A great way to make a change without getting rid of the whole set.

c. Replace your coffee table – these generally take a lot of abuse. Consider a larger table and style it with books, candles and a basket for remotes.

d. Paint an antique chair, chest or table in a fun color. Either something you've been storing or go to a local antique shop or flea market.