So you didn’t buy a turnkey home. Not many people are afforded that luxury and, if you’re a DIYer, you might even be happy about this, as you get to put your own personal stamp on the new abode. Redoing the kitchen and bathrooms are huge if you’re thinking about resale value, but sometimes it’s more enjoyable to revamp things in a way that’s more fun than functional. If Pinterest overwhelms you, we can help. Read on for five trendy home improvements that will have your new pad looking on point in no time.
- Create a Chalkboard Paint Wall
Of course, kids will be over the moon for this, but adults can enjoy it just as much. Put it in a high traffic area like the kitchen. Whether you use it as a giant calendar, for important messages, or just for the fun of it, a chalkboard paint wall is the ultimate in decorating playfulness. Let the wild rumpus start! This DoItYourself.com article will walk you through the steps, which include prepping the wall, applying the chalkboard paint, painting the frame, and prepping the wall for use. Once it’s up, it’s also imperative that you keep meticulous care of it so that it looks great to visitors. Not only should you clean it regularly but you’ll also have to condition it. When you see how great this keeps it looking, you’ll know this extra step is well worth it.
- Choose Paint Colors That Are Outside the Box
Taupes and muted grays can be fantastic, but bold paint colors are the trendy home decorating idea we didn’t even know we needed. When chosen with care, bright and bold paint colors can infuse energy into your home. As this HGTV.com article recommends, “If you want a more active space, consider introducing stronger, more intense color. Even if you want a light-colored room, choose colors that are slightly more saturated than off-white or light pastel.” When choosing paint color, think about the mood you are trying to set in that room, and what the lighting will be like. If you’re just getting started with bold colors, consider starting small (like a den or bathroom). Once you get more comfortable with them, you can expand into your bigger rooms. Don’t be afraid to try some really unique colors, like bright pinks and corals. When paired with white trim, these can create magical looks. People love to decorate when they buy houses, but do keep in mind that if and when you go to sell, you need to go back to more neutral tones that have a broader appeal.
- Let There Be Light
These days, lighting is often used to make a room truly stand out. Gone are the days of boring chandeliers that no one notices. From industrial lighting and rustic farmhouse pieces to glam lighting and white and whimsical contemporary choices, the possibilities to take your rooms from boring to bombastic are nearly endless.
- Fold ‘Er Up
Minimalism is having more than a moment. Not only does clutter look bad but it’s also been proven to cause stress—as if we needed any more of that in our lives. It’s probably why the KonMari method has been so popular. Developed by organization consultant Marie Kondo, this method simply advises you to pick up items you are on the fence about keeping. If this item sparks joy, you keep it. If not, you get rid of it. It’s that simple and yet that profound. Even better, it helps your house to look amazing and clutter-free. Another way you can achieve this is to buy the oh-so-trendy foldable appliances when moving into your new home. Some items are sold this way but you can have anything custom made to do so. Picture your entire kitchen with only a glass vase filled with peonies on it, as everything else folds up. It’s breathtaking, really. And it can also make your home look and feel bigger.
- Barn Doors Are Anything But Basic
You’ve likely seen this trend on Pinterest and/or on your friend’s Facebook page. Taking a traditional door and changing it to a barn door that slides manages to add a vibe that’s both homey and edgy, and this is not an easy feat. Whether you go with a reclaimed wood barn door, an industrial slider, or a more traditional wood option, this will be a real conversation piece in your home.
Don’t let your home be a style snooze. Incorporate any or all of these home improvement ideas and you’ll surely be the biggest trendsetter in your neighborhood.
