Low-cost remodeling tips

ORIGINALLY WRITTEN AMANDA KNOLES
Most people have a dream list of things they would like to remodel in their homes. Some ideas fall into the fantasy category and a few might require a hefty loan, but there are many inexpensive ways to achieve a mini makeover without spending a fortune.

Start with a list of things you would like to change and break it down into tasks that can affordably be accomplished yourself or with the help of family and friends. Many do-it-yourself projects cost less than $500. For example you could replace a clunky looking sink in a guest bathroom with a sleek pedestal sink. Or add a sink with a vanity and storage drawers in a bathroom that needs more storage space.

Changing faucets and knobs is a quick and inexpensive way to update your bathroom. Chrome is still the most popular choice for bath fixtures but you can also choose from nickel, bronze, wrought iron, enamel accents and even wood in styles from country and traditional to casual/contemporary.

Installing a new vinyl or tile floor in a bathroom or kitchen can often be done in a weekend. You can select from vinyl sheet floors to natural stone patterns in tile or laminate wood products to coordinate with any decorating style. Adding or replacing tiles can update the kitchen backsplash area between the countertop and wall cabinets. Coordinate the colors with your countertops or choose a contrasting color for a more dramatic look.

Painting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to give your home a new look. Consider painting one wall of a family room, living room or bedroom using a bold color or textured finishing technique. The can of paint and tools should cost less than $50 and you’ll have a dramatic new focal point for the room. Add pillows, lamps, rugs and accessories to enhance the wall as your budget permits

If your sofa and chairs are looking worn or outdated slipcovers are an inexpensive way to transform them. You’ll find them in a variety of styles and price ranges. Buy the best quality you can afford and look for styles that are machine washable, especially if you have children or pets. Pillows and throws in luxurious fabrics are available in department stores, discount stores and import stores and can give your slipcovers a decorator look without a large outlay of cash.

Changing rugs and window coverings can also provide an instant makeover. Switching from traditional blinds to shutters or shades will give any room a more contemporary look. Many attractive window treatments can be achieved without sewing by simply draping fabric over a rod. Your local department store, fabric or craft store should offer plenty of ideas to inspire you. Replacing overhead light fixtures or adding a ceiling fan can make a dramatic difference in a family room or bedroom and you’ll find a broad range of styles to fit with any decor.

If you’re one of the millions of viewers who love home makeover shows on TV, you know that one of the tricks they use is to move a lamp or rug from one room to another. For example a geometric rug that no longer goes with your living room decor might be perfect in a guest bedroom or teenager’s room.

Another trick that decorators often use is to take an old lamp and give it new life by painting the base a different color or attaching a new shade. Visit flea markets and antique stores for lamps with interesting bases, then cover the shade with fabrics, beading, or any trim you choose. Need to break up a room but can’t put up a dividing wall? Purchase an attractive folding screen or install folding louvered doors.

Can’t afford to replace your kitchen cabinets? Paint them or refinish them and apply new hardware. The choices in hardware styles available today range from Victorian glass knobs to drawer handles in the shape of knives and forks.

Flea markets, garage sales and antique stores are great places to find bargains on furniture like hutches, bookshelves, dressers and vanities that can be painted or refinished. Be creative and think of out of the ordinary ways to use different pieces of furniture, then use faux finishes, stencils and decoupage to give them a custom look.

Searching for a way to turn your bedroom into an inviting retreat? Add a small round table with a beautiful tablecloth and coordinating chairs.

Copyright (c) 2004 Publishers-Edge

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