Frequently clients hire us soon after purchasing a new home knowing they have renovations to do or simply need our help with furnishings and the finishing touches.From the front door to the basement, here are some useful tips on how to update a home with high appeal and a low investment.
Curb appeal – Be an attention seeker!Be creative, do something that will get your home noticed, while still being tasteful.Paint your front door a bold colour, with a grey exterior go for yellow or a fresh blue, with a red/brown exterior go for charcoal grey.We like to tell our clients to add in stylish decorative elements to the exteriors – On the exterior your light fixtures, house numbers, mailbox and door hardware are easy fixes to update and get your home noticed and add some personality. Make sure you keep the finishes the same throughout, black or brushed silver are most popular.
Upon entering, the foyer is the place to set the tone for the home.If it is a casual home go for a sisal rug and a bench with accent cushions; or for a formal home dress it up with a dark geometric tile or rug and a sleek console with mirror above. We all know the kitchen is the heart of the home, and we do a lot of kitchen renovations. It is best to seek a professional for advise when considering any updates in a kitchen as it is one of the most expensive areas to renovate will be a main deciding factor for a buyer on the purchase of your home.In most cases you will get your return back by updating older and dated cabinet doors.The best way to do this is to replace your door faces or get your existing doors painted.The most popular looks today are fresh off white cabinetry or a darker warm grey paint or stain.Also changing dated hardware on your cabinet doors is a fantastic way to update your cabinets without a lot of cost.
Replacing laminate countertops will also improve your kitchen’s appeal and add value.We are huge fan of marble countertops, although they can etch, stain.For most people looking for a more practical material while still trying to achieve a similar look, we think quartz is a fabulous product since it has beautiful options, both practical, and durable.While quartz can be costly, granite or a solid surface like Corian could be a more economical option.
We recommend to not going too busy when selecting your countertop colour and pattern; keep them neutral to ensure their longevity.If you are budget conscious a place to save is on the backsplash.A simple, classic, porcelain subway tile will give you great timeless appeal.
Like the kitchen; cabinets, countertops and tile will make the biggest impact in your bathrooms.Often painting out your existing bathroom’s vanity a fresh white or grey could be an easy way to transform your space.Splurge on beautiful floor tiles and the countertop; these items are worth it and will make an important impact.If your bathroom is neutral but lacks personality, look to transform the feel of the room without great expense by adding some art, statement shower curtains, bath accessories
From the driveway to the basement, be thoughtful this spring about how you update your home.Hire a professional like us and focus on highlighting your home’s unique character and charm through some thoughtful updates and renos and love your home again.
——————————
Kate Davidson, is the founder and principal designer of Kate + Co Design. For more than a decade the multidisciplinary interior design firm has been providing complete residential and commercial design services throughout North America. Kate + Co is known for creating luxurious livable interiors. www.kateandcodesign.com @kateandcodesigninc
