Small changes, big impact: DIY projects for every room

September 2024

Illustration of Coventry
Illustration of Coventry

Five ways your savings can have a lasting impact

Small changes, big impact: DIY projects for every room

September 2024

Your home isn’t just where you live – it’s where life happens. It’s where you unwind, create memories and, for many, it’s an important investment too. While major renovations can transform a space, you don’t always need a big budget to make a difference. Small, thoughtful improvements can enhance both the look and feel of your home, whether you live in it or rent it out.
 

For homeowners and landlords alike, these DIY projects are a great way to add value and comfort to any space.

Create a feature wall

A feature wall is a striking way to bring character into a room. Whether you choose a bold paint colour, eye-catching wallpaper, or a carefully arranged gallery of framed prints, it can become the focal point of any space. The wall behind the sofa or above the bed is a good place to start. For a personal touch, try using stencils to create a unique design.

Update light fixtures 

Lighting plays a huge role in setting the mood of a room, and swapping out old fixtures can be an impactful upgrade. Replacing dated ceiling lights with stylish pendants or modern wall lights can give a space a fresh, contemporary feel. For a cosy atmosphere, consider switching to warmer bulbs. This small change can have a big impact, for your own comfort or to make the property more inviting to tenants.

Add shelving

Extra storage is always a plus. Shelving in living rooms or kitchens is perfect for displaying books, plants, or décor, while in bathrooms, well-placed shelves keep essentials within easy reach. Whether your style is rustic with reclaimed wood or sleek and minimalist with metal, shelving adds both function and style to any space.
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Revamp your hallway

The hallway sets the tone for the rest of the property, and it’s worth making it more welcoming and functional. Installing hooks for coats and bags, adding a small bench, or even a shoe rack can make this space work better. A decorative mirror can open up the area, and a fresh coat of paint on the front door or walls brightens everything up. 

Refresh cabinet handles

Updating cabinet handles is a quick fix with a surprisingly big impact. In kitchens or bathrooms, swapping out old handles for something new gives your cupboards an instant lift without needing a full renovation. For a modern touch, brushed nickel works well, while antique brass adds warmth and character. This change can make a space feel fresher and more attractive, whether for your own enjoyment or to keep occupants happy.
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Add wall panelling

Wall panelling is trending for good reason – it adds depth and style to any room. Panelling can make a dramatic impact without a major overhaul, creating a cosy and elegant atmosphere in your living room, bedroom or hallway.

Regrout tiles

If your bathroom or kitchen tiles are looking a bit tired, regrouting them can make a huge difference. Fresh grout can revive old tiles, making them look clean and new again. This will brighten up your room, giving your space a fresh, polished appearance.

Create a garden feature

Got outdoor space? Make the most of it! A garden feature, like a raised flower bed, herb garden, or a DIY water feature, can transform a plain garden into an attractive, welcoming area, for your own enjoyment or that your tenants will love. Plus, a well-kept garden adds kerb appeal, which is always a bonus if you’re looking to sell or attract quality renters.


These DIY projects show that even small changes can make a big impact. With just a bit of time and effort, you can create a home that’s more comfortable, more attractive and, potentially, more valuable.

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Top tips for an autumn-ready outdoor space
 

September is the perfect time to turn any outdoor space into a cosy retreat where you can relax and unwind.

Your home isn’t just where you live – it’s where life happens. It’s where you unwind, create memories and, for many, it’s an important investment too. While major renovations can transform a space, you don’t always need a big budget to make a difference. Small, thoughtful improvements can enhance both the look and feel of your home, whether you live in it or rent it out.
 

For homeowners and landlords alike, these DIY projects are a great way to add value and comfort to any space.

Create a feature wall

A feature wall is a striking way to bring character into a room. Whether you choose a bold paint colour, eye-catching wallpaper, or a carefully arranged gallery of framed prints, it can become the focal point of any space. The wall behind the sofa or above the bed is a good place to start. For a personal touch, try using stencils to create a unique design.

Update light fixtures

Lighting plays a huge role in setting the mood of a room, and swapping out old fixtures can be an impactful upgrade. Replacing dated ceiling lights with stylish pendants or modern wall lights can give a space a fresh, contemporary feel. For a cosy atmosphere, consider switching to warmer bulbs. This small change can have a big impact, for your own comfort or to make the property more inviting to tenants.

Add shelving

Extra storage is always a plus. Shelving in living rooms or kitchens is perfect for displaying books, plants, or décor, while in bathrooms, well-placed shelves keep essentials within easy reach. Whether your style is rustic with reclaimed wood or sleek and minimalist with metal, shelving adds both function and style to any space.
#

Revamp your hallway

The hallway sets the tone for the rest of the property, and it’s worth making it more welcoming and functional. Installing hooks for coats and bags, adding a small bench, or even a shoe rack can make this space work better. A decorative mirror can open up the area, and a fresh coat of paint on the front door or walls brightens everything up. 

Refresh cabinet handles

Updating cabinet handles is a quick fix with a surprisingly big impact. In kitchens or bathrooms, swapping out old handles for something new gives your cupboards an instant lift without needing a full renovation. For a modern touch, brushed nickel works well, while antique brass adds warmth and character. This change can make a space feel fresher and more attractive, whether for your own enjoyment or to keep occupants happy.

Add wall panelling

Wall panelling is trending for good reason – it adds depth and style to any room. Panelling can make a dramatic impact without a major overhaul, creating a cosy and elegant atmosphere in your living room, bedroom or hallway.
#

Regrout tiles

If your bathroom or kitchen tiles are looking a bit tired, regrouting them can make a huge difference. Fresh grout can revive old tiles, making them look clean and new again. This will brighten up your room, giving your space a fresh, polished appearance.

Create a garden feature

Got outdoor space? Make the most of it! A garden feature, like a raised flower bed, herb garden, or a DIY water feature, can transform a plain garden into an attractive, welcoming area, for your own enjoyment or that your tenants will love. Plus, a well-kept garden adds kerb appeal, which is always a bonus if you’re looking to sell or attract quality renters.


These DIY projects show that even small changes can make a big impact. With just a bit of time and effort, you can create a home that’s more comfortable, more attractive and, potentially, more valuable.

Related articles:

#

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 #

Top tips for an autumn-ready outdoor space
 

September is the perfect time to turn any outdoor space into a cosy retreat where you can relax and unwind.