9 Ways Renovate Your Home in a Day

Some home renovations can take years to finish, but there are many improvements that either you or a contractor can complete in just one day.

Small and inexpensive improvements paid for out of your savings could actually add thousands of dollars in value to your home advises Joanna Pretty, general manager of mortgage lender State Custodians Home Loans.

“Throughout the past 12 months, growth in the Australian property market has slowed in many key cities,” she says. “Looking for ways to create your own value is a smart option in the current economic climate and you can still keep your property investment growing. Many people heading towards retirement tend to let the maintenance and presentation slide in their home, but this really should be avoided. In particular, kitchens and bathrooms are very important rooms in terms of value and appeal, so these should be top priority.”

Here are tips from two of Australia’s top stylists for simple updates in keeping with this year’s latest decorating styles which you could complete over a weekend or less.

Update door and cabinet handles

Regularly used handles will soon start looking worn. However, new handles will instantly lift a room. If you’re on a budget, Bunnings sell handles for just a few dollars each. Different metallic shades are still on-trend according to stylist Stina Eriksson from online homewares store Zanui. “Brass and gold have been a big trend,” she says. “We’ve been seeing more gold-plated handles and homewares like bowls. As long as you don’t overpower a room with too much of it, this is a finish that will work well with a lot of furnishings.”

Replace old tap fittings

There are currently many amazing tap fixtures on the market. One of the hottest looks at the moment is matt-black tapware. Finish the look with other black accessories or else metallic candlestick holders and vases which will dramatically pop against it.

Slap on a new coat of paint

New paint will give any room a fresh new vibe - particularly if your walls are an outdated lime green! Re-painting the exterior of your home can also enhance kerb appeal. A front door painted a bold red can also make an impact, particularly, if there are no other distinct architectural feature. Neutral tones are always a great blank canvas for most homewares. However, you can still paint a feature wall a different colour for impact. Plus, if you change your mind you only have to re-paint one wall! “Fleshy pink is still hot,” says celebrity stylist and TV presenter James Treble. “But if you’re not keen on pink walls, just add some pops of pink with cushions. It's cheap, and you can work with your existing colour scheme.”

Revitalise your kitchen benchtop

A dated and ugly kitchen benchtop is a huge turn off. If you love the look of on-trend marble, some companies can pop a new slab over your existing countertop. Or else you can re-spray the surface with new paint.

Revamp your kitchen backsplash

Stina says installing an eye-catching backsplash can really lift a kitchen. “You could even go for wallpaper covered with a clear sheet of glass. Don’t be afraid to embrace patterns. As long as it’s not covering everything in sight.” Ali Express has a multitude of tiled contact paper from about $30 a metre. Simply peel and stick over the old backsplash.

Make ceiling fans a feature

Traditionally,l the aim has been to make fans “disappear” into the ceiling by making them all white. However, you can get ceiling fans with brass or wicker detailing reminiscent of a 1930s style which can be particularly eye-catching.

Install hooks for art and wall decoration

People get nervous about installing hooks into walls fearing that once a hook’s in, it’s a hassle if you change your mind. However, if you’re selling your house, the new owners will probably be appreciative of existing hooks so they don’t have to install them! “Showcasing your home with art is one sure-fire way to add impact to even the most boring room,” says James. “Large canvas prints are a great, cost-effective way to pick up on the colours in your accessories or styling.” If your house is up for sale, James suggests choosing abstract pieces.“They won’t come across as being too ‘personal’ and will still appeal to the largest market and prospective purchasers.” Another way to add texture is to hang a rug. “It adds interest and can absorb sound!”

Choose attractive light fittings

The popularity of light fittings has grown enormously in recent times. “Concrete pendants are still really in demand,” says Stina. “Clustering multiple lights together above your kitchen benchtop can create a great focal point. We’ve also seen a trend for light fixtures with the cord exposed and no lampshade which lends itself to the minimalist look. Or else if you’re a fan of texture, the tribal look showcases eye-catching natural fibres.”

Update flooring

There’s nothing as off putting as seeing a house encased in daggy carpet. New flooring can strip years away from a dated home. One popular choice is floating floorboards. These come in fantastic finishes and are so simple to install you can do it yourself.

Do you have easy renovation tips or tricks? Leave a comment below.