Simple upgrades
TO TRANSFORM A HOME
Clean and declutter Stuff… we always seem to accumulate so much stuff! And if you are not regularly sorting through what you have, this ‘stuff’ can quickly take over your home. If you can, try and be brutal with what you keep. If you don’t love it, use it or need it, should it really be in your home taking up space? The less clutter you have, the easier your home is to keep clean, and the more pleasant it will feel.
Paint and dress Paint – the go-to instant updater. A fresh coat does wonders for a home, both internally and externally. This goes for furniture too.
Update handles and small features There have been many trends in fixtures and fittings over the years and if your cupboards are looking dated, simply replacing the handles can overhaul the look.
Lighting
When it comes time for a house refresh, chances are that you have been thinking of, dreaming about, and maybe even planning what to do for a long time, which is probably a good thing, as off-the-cuff design decisions are often not the best ones. One wellness trend that has truly stood the test of time is the white kitchen. Simple and elegant, the popularity of the style actually dates to the early 1900s. The reason? Creating a sterile, clean environment. If you are considering creating appeal with a ‘wellness trend’ think carefully about how they will be received, either by yourself (you may love it now, but will you still in six months?), your tenants or future buyers. There are a few past ‘wellness’ trends you might like to avoid. The 19th century saw quite a few such trends introduced, but, unlike the appeal of the white kitchen, they didn’t stick around too long. Blue tinted windows were one fad thought to improve the overall health of people. It lasted little more than a couple years before it was debunked by scientists. Circular structures were a design also thought to provide a healthier lifestyle in the home. Why? It was believed they created more airflow through the home. But the challenges from a practical building perspective of circular designs led to octagonal builds increasing in popularity. These days, square or rectangular home layouts are far more the norm. If you are planning on improving your home, best to stick with simple and effective improvements that will make all the right impressions. Budgets, time constraints and accessibility do not always lend themselves to large scale renovations. Sometimes simplicity is best. Whether getting your property ready to rent or sell, or for your own enjoyment of living, there are upgrades that you can carry out yourself.
Updating aged lighting and fixtures can instantly modernise the look of a property. You can pick up relatively inexpensive and stylish downlights from any local hardware store, for example – but ensure you hire a licensed electrician to install them.
Updating appliances Over time, electrical appliances such as dishwashers, ovens and microwaves may look worn; or even become an eye-sore, not to mention less efficient. Mismatching appliances can also detract from the overall look. These days there are plenty of options available in colours and finishes, and you can even extend this to fixtures and fittings.
Update the dated splashback If the kitchen or laundry is looking a little drab, before you reach for the tools to rip off those old tiles, there are plenty of products on the market to simply update what is currently there. Tile paint and stick-on tiles are a simple way of covering an unloved look.
Tidy the front of the home While it may take a little bit of elbow grease, tidying the front of the home can do wonders for increasing the street appeal. Trim trees and plants, layer some fresh mulch, tidy up edges and pavers, and straighten up the letterbox.
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