1Add a Sliding Barn Door

Doors can take up space, but they're essential for privacy and storage concealment. A sliding barn door is an attractive solution, like one used to hide dining and kitchen storage. These doors roll on easy-to-install hardware. Select a design that complements existing room accents or paint it a contrasting color for a bold statement.

2Screen and Revamp an Outdoor Space

While open outdoor spaces are wonderful, a screened-in porch offers added benefits. Screens keep out insects and provide some privacy, making the space more usable in warm weather. Updating the screens can inspire other enhancements, such as adding soft shades for sun protection, a light fixture and ceiling fan for extended use, and a durable floor finish to handle foot traffic.

3Revamp a Closet

Consider the daily frustration of a cluttered closet. A simple DIY makeover can enhance both its beauty and functionality. Begin by emptying the closet and adding a colorful mix of patterns and hues—try wallpaper on the lower half and bright yellow on top. Select versatile storage solutions like hanging rods, shelves, open storage, and drawers or baskets. To save space, replace doors with soft, repurposed window treatments.

4Remake Your Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets can be costly to replace, and renovations often become expensive. A simple makeover idea is to remove the upper cabinet doors for a fresh, open-shelving look. This not only modernizes the space but also encourages decluttering. Fill and sand the hinge holes, then paint the shelves a bright white to enhance the openness. Explore how to convert your cabinets to open shelving for a budget-friendly update.

5Install a New Garage Door

Enhancing curb appeal is a valuable way to improve your home, and a mini garage remodel can be easily achieved with a new garage door. Opt for a good, mid-range door that can be painted to match your existing color scheme. Consider various styles and details before finalizing your garage remodel plans.

6Add an Island to the Kitchen

Even small kitchens with good traffic flow can accommodate a kitchen island without breaking the bank. Consider off-the-shelf counter-height tables, which provide extra prep and serving space. Opt for a small island with open storage and add wire baskets to maximize vertical space. The best part? These pre-made units require no extra effort to install.

7Improve a Home Office

Adding a home office can vary in complexity depending on your home's layout, but it significantly enhances daily efficiency. Start by choosing a space with enough counter room for at least two people, allowing for shared use by kids or a parent-child duo. Opt for practical furniture with drawers, cabinets, and open shelves to organize family paperwork. Include a chalkboard, corkboard, or magnet board for displaying schedules, tasks, and family mementos.

8Install an Exterior Pathway or Deck

While many home makeovers focus on interiors, updating exterior spaces can enhance curb appeal and create valuable daily-use areas. A well-planned exterior makeover can also address landscape issues, like areas with too much shade. Combine plants with hardscape elements, such as a simple deck transitioning into a gravel and paved path, with low-maintenance plants suited to your climate.

9Upgrade Storage and Display in a Laundry

Washers and dryers often get overlooked in home improvement projects, yet a well-designed laundry space can make chores more pleasant. Upgrades don't need to be costly or time-consuming. Install open shelves with gently curved brackets for functionality, and paint them bright white to keep the area open and airy. Avoid clutter by choosing accessories thoughtfully, and add a few decorative touches like a vase or a colorful rug to transform the space.

10Upgrade Your Vanity, Sink, and Accessories

Often, a room has elements that function well, such as the floor, toilet, or shower in a bathroom. By selectively upgrading key pieces, you can achieve the effect of a larger remodel without the high cost. Consider purchasing bathroom vanities as packages to save money and simplify decisions. Also, update accessories like mirrors, light switches, and fixtures for added impact.