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sell or to dwell, there is always room to infuse a fresh, new look into a space that may be perceived as tired, worn or outdated.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.
WHAT’S WORTH IT? WHAT’S NOT?
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.
IDEAS FOR QUICK, LOW COST REFRESHERS
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Here’s some insight into how an outdated home was transformed into one that is now more modern and fresh.
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LIVING ROOM
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
KITCHEN
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
BATHROOM
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
MASTER BEDROOM
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
SECOND BEDROOM
Refreshers:
— Fresh coat of paint
Cost: $60 per gallon
— Headboard
Cost: $65
— Side table
Cost: $25
— Bedding
Cost: $95
— Cotton area rug
Cost: $45
THIRD BEDROOM
Refreshers:
— Fresh coat of paint
Cost: $60 per gallon
— Console table
Cost: $85
— Bedding
Cost: $185
— Table lamp
Cost: $55
— Toss pillows
Cost: $45
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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. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at www.cathyhobbs.com .
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