Winter in Iowa can be a time when many find themselves confined to their home, sheltering themselves from the outside cold and elements. Although this can be a cozy experience, it can also produce anxiety when you are feeling trapped by the outdated, unattractive appeal of the décor that surrounds you, with the daunting thoughts of pricey renovations that seem far out of reach for the average homeowner.
What if this year were different? What if the time spent indoors could instead be used updating your home using cost-effective, low stress but high impact changes that will make your home look like it belongs in a magazine? The average homeowner does not have an unlimited budget, but with a few minor tweaks, a little elbow grease, and a few dollars, any home can take on a new look at a reasonable price. Listed below are a few examples.
Paint
It’s been said time and time again, and it remains true- paint is the biggest bang for your buck if a new look is what you’re after. Painting walls gives an immediate refreshment to the wear and tear of daily living and can help in making a room feel lighter and brighter or cozier, depending on the appeal you seek. Painting kitchen cabinets can give an outdated, boring kitchen a whole new look or provide a bathroom a quick refresh with a swap to the vanity color. White and gray are no longer the only on trend colors, as deep, rich shades of green and navy have become the new neutrals. A compliment to the new paint is new hardware. A quick swap of metals can bring a new look without power tools or materials.
Of course, another way paint can enhance a space is by painting furniture currently acting as an eyesore in your home or by picking up a piece at a local second-hand store. DIY furniture makeovers create a fresh new piece at a low cost along with a before and after story to share.
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