If you're looking to update your home this winter, consider doing some quick projects like updating the kitchen or bathroom. These are indoor jobs that don't require dealing with the cold weather, and they can significantly increase your home value. Besides, it’s a good way to save some money with the prices for materials usually rising in spring.
Here are some of the ideas to think of.
1. Go for the new lightning
Installing a new light fixture in your bathroom can give it an instant makeover by giving off brighter and fresher-looking lighting. You could go for something traditional like hanging fixtures, or you might prefer one that sits on top of mirrors to reflect more ambient sunshine around the room.
If you are not really comfortable with disconnecting the electricity and some wire job, consider hiring a professional for this part.
2. Add some tiles
Tiles can be a good way to update your bathroom without having the entire space changed out. They're easy and quick to install (and you don't need any tools), durable, moisture-resistant — there's really nothing not love about them! You could go with something classic like white or black subway tiles, but why not experiment by arranging herringbone design across one wall? Or try hexagon-shaped ones in another area?
3. Adding wallpaper won’t hurt
Wallpaper is a cool way to jazz up your powder room without taking too much space. You can choose from a variety of designs, including ones that are splash-proof so they won't peel off in high humidity areas.
4. Modernize your vanity
If you're looking to take your bathroom design up a notch, consider adding some personality and flair to your vanity. You can paint it bold new colors, replace its countertop with a wooden/granite one, install new hardware, change the stencils, etc.
5. Old furniture — new style
Upcycling furniture is a great way to spruce up your space without breaking the bank. If you're looking for an affordable makeover, consider converting old dressers and nightstands into new bathroom storage systems. Paint them whatever color you like, cut a hole for a sink — it’s all up to you.
6. Get a towel warmer
When it's cold outside, and you need to get out of the shower, there is nothing better than coming back into a warm bathroom. A wall-mounted towel warmer will keep your towels and space nice and cozy. A warmer can be installed easily by plugging it in with an outlet nearby.
7. Change the mirror
When you're looking for an upgrade, replacing that old frameless mirror with one of these artful versions is a simple and stylish way to spruce up any bathroom. They come in different shapes — like circles or triangles — which will help give your bathroom some style and character, so you feel like it's yours rather than just another generic room with no personality.
Make sure to get a mirror with a hanger bracket to ease the installation process. Alternatively, you can keep your old mirror and simply get a new frame.
8. Replace the hardware
To give your bathroom the brand new feeling, all you need is some accent features. Think of replacing a toilet paper holder, light fixtures, faucets, a towel rack, and so on. Go for a classic nickel, or get something funky from a thrift shop — whatever matches your style.
9. Add a new wall storage
You can make your bathroom feel more spacious by installing floating shelves or a wall cabinet above the toilet and adding a bar with hooks next to the tub. This will allow you easy access for storing anything that needs storage in this area while also giving it some visual appeal. If hanging things on walls isn’t possible because of limited space, try positioning a ladder and use it as an additional storage space.
10. Go for eco-friendly elements
According to the research made by Freddie Mac, energy-efficient features can boost your home value up to 2.7%, and besides, you’ll be helping the planet at the same time.
Upgrade your home's lighting with an energy-efficient option like halogen incandescent, CFL, or LED lights. You can also install insulation and a toilet that meet Energy Star standards, although these are more complex projects which might require professional help.
11. Paint the walls
The right color can make all the difference when selling your home. For a fresh, clean look that will boost resale value, try warm or neutral tones like cream and white. If you want something different, then painted stencils offer an added flourish along trim lines for any room in need of extra creativity.
12. Update your shower space
There are lots of ways to make your shower more functional and stylish. Shower shelves can hold all the soaps, shampoos, or lotions you need in an easy-to-reach place without cluttering up counter space with bottles that will eventually get messy if left sitting on top.
Don’t worry if your shower is tiled, just go for a lighter shelf and use water-resistant adhesive or screws.
13. Add the window blinds
Installing new blinds can be an easy way to give your bathroom that fresh, clean feel. You might even discover improved energy efficiency and reduced cooling costs in summer and heating costs in winter.
14. Replace the exhaust fan
Your bathroom exhaust fan is an essential part of your home's ventilation system. It removes heat, odors, and moisture from the room, helping to prevent mold while improving air quality for you.
The average lifespan of a fan usually lasts 10 years, but if it has been a while since the replacement, it’s better to invest in a new one today before something goes wrong with its efficiency or function altogether.
15. Add storage space
To maximize your storage space, consider adding some static or slide-out shelves to the cabinets in a bathroom. You can use baskets for further organization and store extras like linens and towels on them too! These pre-made pieces come from hardware stores, but you might be able to reuse parts of an old dresser/vanity if needed (just make sure it’s stable).
If you're looking to update your bathroom, consider tackling a few of these projects or putting them all on the list. Think about what needs to be done there and how much money is available for upgrades. The best thing about these projects is that you can do most of them by yourself or with a partner.
If a bigger renovation is planned, you might think of getting a cash-out refinance to replace your current mortgage with a larger amount.
This is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Please consult a legal, financial, or professional advisor for your specific situation.
