Kitchen & Bathroom Design Blog

Here is a new blog post from a guest author contributing to
Lang’s Kitchen & Bath’s website. All views expressed are those of the author.

Along with the perpetual New Year's resolutions that many fail to fulfill, the first month of the fresh year is the best time for a home makeover. As they say, the new year marks new beginnings. If you want to freshen up your kitchen, living space, or bedroom without breaking the bank, here are eight practical ways.

1. Paint Cabinets and Walls

One challenge of home remodeling is the budget. But whether you want a new environment, are planning to sell your home, or simply have a spare budget, it’s best to put these dollars into home modification.

Repainting the cabinets and walls in the kitchen, living room, or other areas is an easy yet impactful renovation tactic that can completely transform your home. Replacing old, flaking, and curling wall paint can make your home look brand new, clean, and visually attractive to visitors.

If you have paint cans lying around from your last remodeling, know that opened paint cans can last for five years if sealed properly. Use any excess paint supplies or purchase new ones. Search online for trendy paint colors in 2024 if you need some creative inspiration to start.

2. Upgrade Countertops

This home upgrade may be costly, but it's worth every penny you put into it. The kitchen is the focal point for many homebuyers or visitors, so many splurge in transforming their kitchen. Most would prefer granite and quartz countertops for a luxurious feel. Granite countertops cost around $40–$100 per square foot, while quartz countertops cost between $50–$200.

If budget is not a concern, upgrading to these options can elevate the look and feel of your home to luxury. But while these two are the trends, you must consider whether it's practically the best for you. Factors like limited repair options, annual sealing for some materials, and professional installation may make these home projects costly. Laminating or opting for a ceramic or porcelain tile may make more financial sense for you.

3. Repair Doors

The doors are the underestimated part of the home, unless they're heavily decorated, which often happens during the holidays. They protect the family so replacing them is the best solution if they show signs of rotten wood, cracks, splits, and dents.

Choose the right materials when buying a new door. The two most popular options are wood and aluminum. Pick a material that matches the style of your abode. You don't always have to consider a replacement. If the door only squeaks annoyingly every time it's moved, the hinges might need more lubrication.

The lack of lubricant can make the door susceptible to friction and will ultimately create squeaky noises. Take silicon spray or lithium grease and remove the hinge pins individually. Coat the hinge pins with lubricant while wiping any excess with a spare rag before returning the pins. It should solve the squeaky noises for a few weeks.

4. Install Energy-Efficient Appliances

With sustainability in the minds of many homeowners, an excellent way to promote a cleaner environment is by switching to energy-efficient appliances. By upgrading to these power-saving devices, you can enjoy lower electricity bills and help protect the planet.

If you plan to furnish your home with a new air conditioner, stove, or dishwasher, look for Energy Star-certified brands. The Energy Star is a joint program by the EPA and the Department of Energy to promote the efficient use of power in every household. Based on their data, a certified energy-efficient building uses 35% less energy than a typical space. Upgrade your appliances, use less electricity, and save a lot in the long run.

5. Change Curtains

To match the fresh year's theme and ambiance, change the color of your curtains, too. This minor revamp leaves a positive impression on home occupants. Choose a color that matches the home's overall theme and add a personal touch according to your style.

Well-picked and assimilated curtains instantly upgrade your residence, improve the lighting, and change the vibes.

6. Update Lighting Fixtures

Do you want a particular home area to be more lit? Installing lighting with the right temperature gives your dwelling an instant lift. Lighting colors have different temperatures, so pick one that matches the intended ambiance you want for a space.

For instance, the kitchen needs to be well-illuminated for cooking and food preparation — white bulbs can help with this. Meanwhile, warm lighting in the bedroom creates a cozy atmosphere, promoting sleep.

Lighting is crucial for the home's ambiance and functionality. Upgrade the areas that need them based on the specific atmosphere you want to create.

7. Accent with Plants

Plants can add color, texture, and natural elements to your dwelling. An earlier study proved that houseplants like English ivy and bamboo palms can help diffuse toxic chemicals.

These beauties work harder by brightening your space while filtering indoor air impurities, saving you a few bucks for running an air purifier. Plus, being near any natural element can also improve your mood.

These natural pots can be herbs, flowering, or purifying plants, but choose your favorite decorative greens. Oversized plants are a show stealer if your room has space for them. A fiddle leaf fig that can grow up to 6 feet tall will look best near a window with a lot of sunshine.

8. Upgrade Flooring

Upgrading the floor can be considered a significant home renovation that's only possible with enough budget. However, one affordable flooring modification is changing to vinyl. It gives the surface a new, textured style that looks expensive.

If you want more fancy flooring this new year, upgrading to hardwood, ceramics, luxury vinyl, or laminated flooring is the best choice. Before starting this renovation, talk with and obtain flooring samples and quotes from professionals so you'll know the costs.

The Home Makeover You Want for the New Year

The magic of the New Year brings the best opportunities to change many domains of your life, including home. Doesn't it inspire you if your abode exudes a fresh theme and cozy vibe right off the New Year's bat?

A home makeover doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. It will surprise you to know that home renovations can be affordable DIY projects. All you need is the materials and time — or a weekend if you work on weekdays, to transform your private space into a beautiful haven. Alternatively, make this the year you embark on a larger-scale home remodeling project to make your home living spaces come to life!