Changing a Light Fixture and Painting a Door Can Change the Feel of a Space (Photo: Beth Caldwell Photography)
Times are undoubtedly strange and, as we all practice social distancing and try to maintain our sanity, why not take on a project or two that will help you enjoy your space more…and maybe add some value to your home?
Here are a few ideas of things big and small you do as you take a break from working remotely, homeschooling kids and/or binging on online content:
Get on the Kondo Train: There’s no time like being stuck in your home to do an audit of how much stuff you have — that you use AND that you don’t. Whether you are a fan of KonMari and Marie Kondo or just want to do some spring cleaning and purging your own way, set aside time to go through your closets, cabinets and drawers. You’d be surprised how many batteries you actually have and may discovery you have more strainers than you could ever use in your kitchen.
Embrace Your Inner Cinderella: In the interest of sanitization and general cleanliness, take time to tackle the not-as-regular tasks — from washing your baseboards to emptying kitchen cabinets and drawers to remove crumbs and dust. To make things manageable, create a list of these tasks and schedule time to tackle one every few days.
Become a Caulking Master: Have you noticed caulk pulling away around the bathtub or gaps between your countertop and backsplash in the kitchen? This is one task we almost always attend to before listing a home — because it prevents water penetrating areas it shouldn’t and it makes bathrooms and kitchens show better. You’ll find plenty of YouTube tutorials on this DIY project or just check out this easy step-by-step article. Having done this myself, I will say you’ll get better with practice…so what better time to learn?
Update Small Fixtures & Finishes: From changing the knobs and pulls on dressers or cabinets to replacing a bathroom mirror, vanity light or hardware (see above and below), there are so many simple projects you can take on that will help you add style and value to your spaces with minimal effort.
Change Your Palette or Wall Art: While it may feel like the walls are closing in on you, instead of ignoring them, focus on them! Perhaps you’ve been thinking about updating the wall color in your bedroom or adding wallpaper to an accent wall or powder room…I say, go for it! If that’s a bit too much, go through those old photos (digital and not) and consider adding a picture ledge or new gallery wall with treasured photos placed in new frames.
Upgrading Your Bathroom Hardware Is Easy
You may find that working on one or more of these projects is a welcome distraction and therapeutic during these uncertain times, and that the end result will boost your mood and more for months and years to come. Finally, please put you and your household's health first. If your chosen task requires supplies from the hardware store or otherwise, consider ordering online and following best practices when handling packages once received.
And, as always, if you are looking for specific ideas for your home, I’m available for virtual consultations…just reach out!
Amber Harris is the owner of At Home DC, an interior decorator and a licensed real estate agent with Keller Williams Capital Properties working with clients in DC, Maryland and Virginia.