Whether you are looking to sell or to dwell, there is always room to infuse a fresh, new look into a space that may be perceived as tired, worn or outdated. While a full renovation may be an option, it doesn’t have to be. With a bit of creativity, planning and perhaps a bit of do-it-yourself work, making your home feel inviting and refreshed doesn’t have to break the bank.
It is a common dilemma for many homeowners. Where should you invest your renovation dollars? A good rule of thumb is to invest in areas that may potentially add value, such as upgrading a bathroom or kitchen. Next, look to outdoor areas that can enhance the appearance or curb appeal, such as a new door, fresh siding or enhanced landscaping.
First, set a budget. Even a small budget can go a long way with proper planning. The key is to maximize value by selectively choosing to spend money on key items that may be viewed as a valued upgrade, especially as it relates to resale value, should you ever decide to sell your home.
Some ideas for quick low cost refreshers include:
Replacing a kitchen countertop.
Repainting cabinets. This is one of the least expensive ways to infuse a fresh modern look into an older kitchen.
Replacing basic appliances such as a dishwasher or refrigerator. Stainless steel remains the most desirable.
Installing an inexpensive vinyl tile over an existing floor. A 12-by-24-inch tile tends to be a more modern look, compared to a 10-by-10 inch tile.
Replace basic, elements such as toilets and faucets in a bathroom. This is a prime example of how a little can go a long way.
The Design Recipes design team was recently asked to implement some low-cost refreshers to help transform a 1950s home located in southern New Jersey.
Here’s some insight into how an outdated home was transformed into one that is now more modern and fresh.
Refreshers:
Slipcover for an existing sofa. Cost: $95
Toss pillows
Cost: $45
Wall mirror
Cost: $0 (removed from above a bedroom dresser)
Artwork
Cost: $125
Area rug
Cost: $125
Coffee Table
Cost: $0 (a pair of repurposed bookcases)
Floor lamp
Cost: $45
Refreshers:
New stainless steel dishwasher
Cost: $350
New stainless refrigerator
Cost: $995
Repainting of kitchen cabinetry
Cost: $60 per gallon of paint. Approximately six cans used.
New cabinet hardware and hinges
Cost: $100
Groutable vinyl tile, 12-by-24 inches
Cost: $1.25 per square foot
Refreshers:
Groutable vinyl tile, 12-by-24 inches
Cost: $1.25 per square foot
New toilet
Cost: $195
Cabinet with sink
Cost: $285
New faucet and showerhead
Cost: $155
Medicine cabinet
Cost: $125.00
Refreshers:
Fresh coat of paint
Cost: $60 per gallon
Side tables
Cost: $45
Bedding
Cost: $75
Table lamp
Cost: $55
Toss pillows
Cost: $45
Area rug:
Cost: $95
Refreshers:
Fresh coat of paint
Cost: $60 per gallon
Headboard
Cost: $65
Side table
Cost: $25
Bedding
Cost: $95
Cotton area rug
Cost: $45
Refreshers:
Fresh coat of paint
Cost: $60 per gallon
Console table
Cost: $85
Bedding
Cost: $185
Table lamp
Cost: $55
Toss pillows
Cost: $45
Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C.