Turn an old home’s quirks into its perks with these easy and affordable DIY updates
If the bones of your home are good and your decorating budget is slim to none, chances are that a full-scale renovation just isn’t at the top of your priority list.
But the good news is that there are easy ways to update an old home and make it feel brand new again, just by making your mark on its interiors and external facade.
From painting the front door your favourite shade, to hanging up artworks that take you to your happy place, there’s always something that can be done to bring some light and life into the place you call home.
Here are 8 quick, DIY ways to make an old home feel like new, without breaking the bank.
1. Refresh accessories
Before you begin binning items in your home and pledging to simply replace everything, take a step back and consider all of the elements that make up the space. Could a simple change, like replacing a mirror, make a big impact? Prehaps there’s something in your home that could be upcycled and repurposed? We love how a round mirror and black tapware change the look of this bathroom in a white farmhouse.
2. Find new ways to use old things
Finding new ways to use old things can include repurposing items, or simply embracing the quirky period details of your home. Here, a set of exposed copper pipes have been transformed into an eye-catching rack for the display of pots, pans and other kitchen utensils.
3. Bring in the greenery
Living in an older home usually means embracing a collection of antique and vintage furniture to match. But if things begin to feel too stiff and formal, indoor plants will be your saviour. Here towering plants and clusters of potted plants have transformed a plain passageway into a luxe conservatory.
4. Paint your front door
Be energised as soon as you pull into the driveway with a statement front door that packs a punch. Nothing feels more youthful than a bold pop of colour, so be brave and choose your favourite shade. We’re loving the zesty yellow chosen for this weatherboard cottage.
5. Embrace all-white everything
There’s a reason white is often described as ‘fresh’ and that’s because it really does renew a space by bouncing natural light around and making everything seem spacious and uniform.
6. Introduce industrial finishes and fixtures
Making a classic country kitchen seem brand new is easy with a touch of ultra-modern powdered black steel. If you’ve got chrome fixtures and cabinet hardware, replacing them with matte black or even brass or leather pulls is an easy, affordable update.
7. Install a hanging chair
A change is as good as a holiday, so look at things from a new perspective from the comfort of a hanging egg chair. This is perfect for old homes with wide verandahs and pretty garden views.
8. Add art
So you’ve got amazing furniture, you’ve re-jigged your homewares and introduced layers of texture and colour, but still feel like something is still … missing? It could be a lack of artwork. Artwork is the most powerful decorating tool and once you notice the difference you’ll never go back. Invest in a single statement piece or try creating a gallery wall.
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