Refreshing the Old House: Small Renovations to Make It Feel New

  • Posted on Nov. 7, 2023
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Old house renovation is a unique yet tempting design challenge. While these houses often boast distinctive features that lend them character, there can be an uphill battle to align the space with your personal style and modern design preferences. 

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However, there's good news – you don't always need extensive renovations to breathe new life into an older home. Here is how you may refresh your old home with tiny changes.

Define The Style and Color Palette

When dealing with an old home that may have a strong existing style, it's essential to start by choosing a color palette and design theme that resonate with your taste. By deciding on aesthetics, you'll have a clearer vision of what to change or enhance in the space.

Replace a Prominent Focal Point

Large pieces of furniture usually dominate a room's visual landscape. If a particular piece doesn't align with your desired style, consider swapping it out. Relocation of an oversized sofa or an outdated bed frame can give both spaces a fresh feel.

Refresh with a Single Wall Repaint

A fresh coat of paint may not alter the room's structure, but it works wonders in transforming its appearance. An accent wall can provide an instant makeover, particularly in all-white rooms. For a more comprehensive update, consider repainting one or two rooms entirely to create a cohesive atmosphere.

Update Hardware

Small details like cabinet pulls, door handles and drawer knobs can have a surprisingly significant impact on home remodeling. You may also replace the dials on stovetop ranges and faucets to breathe new life into the space.

Reimagine the Fireplace

Older fireplaces may feel out of place, but a simple update makes a world of difference. Painting red brick in a fresh, modern color completely refreshes the appearance. Additionally, consider retiling the fireplace using peel-and-stick tiles. For non-functioning fireplaces, creative solutions like filling them with books or decorative logs can add charm.

Embrace Temporary Wallpaper

Instead of dealing with the hassle of removing outdated wallpaper, consider adding temporary wallpaper. These semi-permanent options are easy to apply and can be switched out periodically to refresh the room's appearance.

Revamp Soft Goods

Textiles like curtains, blankets, pillows, and bedding are perfect for bringing a new vibe to a room quickly. By choosing textiles that align with your desired style, you can create various moods – be it a coastal theme, cottage-style coziness, or minimalistic sleekness.

Introduce Peel-and-Stick Tiles

Stick tiles are a cheap and quick alternative to replacing flooring or walls. These DIY-friendly tiles work wonders on floors, walls, backsplashes, or countertops, providing a fresh look without the need for professionals.

Lay Down Rugs

Rugs, whether modern or vintage, can significantly impact the atmosphere in an older home. For a more dramatic change, consider replacing outdated carpets or flooring, which can bring an immediate sense of rejuvenation.

Refresh Trimwork

If your home features plain or uninspiring trim work, a fresh coat of paint can make a world of difference. Opt for a vibrant hue that contrasts with the walls to infuse new energy into the space.

Update Accent Pieces

Evaluate the accent pieces scattered throughout your home and identify opportunities for upgrades. Items like antique shelving units or retro side tables might have their charm, but if they clash with your new vision, consider swapping them for pieces that better align with your desired style.

Transform the Ceiling

Looking up, you can bring fresh life to a room by reimagining the ceiling. A vibrant ceiling color, wallpaper, or paneling can transform a space, diverting attention from dated textures or finishes that linger from years past.

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