DIY Home Decor Projects to Refresh Your Living Space

Our homes are our sanctuaries – the places we go to relax and unwind after a long day. But sometimes, our living spaces can start to feel stale and uninspired. Implementing some easy DIY home decor projects is a great way to breathe new life into your home without breaking the bank. Whether you want to give your space a quick facelift or start some more intensive renovations, there are endless DIY possibilities for every skill level.

Give Walls a Fresh Look with Paint or Wallpaper

One of the simplest ways to revive a room is by changing up the wall color or wallcoverings. Painting is an affordable DIY project that makes a huge visual impact. To add interesting dimension to your walls, consider painting an accent wall in a bold color or experimenting with textures like faux finishes. For a more dramatic transformation, install removable wallpaper or wall decals. The possibilities are endless when it comes to patterns, colors and designs. Wallpaper allows you to unleash your creativity without the commitment of a permanent change.

Steps for Painting a Room:

1. Choose the right paint finish and sheen. The finish impacts durability and washability. Sheen affects aesthetic. Matte or eggshell finishes hide imperfections while glossy makes a bold statement.
2. Prep the walls. Fill holes, remove fixtures, clean surfaces and apply primer. Primer helps the paint adhere.
3. Pick your tools. At minimum, you’ll need paint brushes, paint roller, paint tray, drop cloths and painters tape.
4. Start painting. Use a brush for edges and corners. Rollers work best for large, open areas. Work in sections for the best coverage.
5. Remove fixtures and finish final details. Carefully remove any lighting or hardware. Inspect walls for any final touch ups.

Tips for Installing Wallpaper:

• Measure the wall and cut the wallpaper to fit. Allow for extra to wrap edges.
• Apply adhesive to the back of the wallpaper, not the wall. Smooth on evenly.
• Line up wallpaper and press onto wall gently to activate adhesive. Smooth out air bubbles.
• Use a smoothing tool to press wallpaper flat against the wall, working from middle out.
• At corners or edges, cut through both layers of wallpaper. Then peel back top layer and apply extra adhesive before pressing back down.

With some creativity and elbow grease, you can reinvent the look of your space with a fresh coat of paint or stylish wallpaper prints.

Upgrade Kitchen Cabinets with New Hardware

Over time, kitchen cabinet hardware can start to look dull or feel loose and outdated. Refinishing or replacing cabinet hardware is an easy upgrade that can give your kitchen a more modern look and feel. Swapping out tired old handles and knobs for new ones allows you to showcase your personal style.

When selecting new hardware, consider finishes like brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze or matte black for a contemporary vibe. Opt for vintage-inspired glass or crystal knobs to give your kitchen a traditional twist. Don’t forget the hinges too – concealed hinges provide a seamless, integrated look.

Here are some tips for installing new kitchen cabinet hardware:

• Take measurements to determine the size and number of handles and knobs needed for each cabinet and drawer.
• Purchase the necessary hardware and tools. Usually just a screwdriver, but old hardware may require drilling out screws or filling in holes.
• Remove old hardware. Label pieces if removing hinges. Fill holes with wood filler and let dry completely.
• Install new knobs and handles. Follow manufacturer’s instructions. For a uniform look, maintain the same distance between each handle or knob.
• Attach new hinges by drilling pilot holes and screwing in place. Test doors for alignment and make adjustments as needed.
• Clean hardware to remove fingerprints and reveal shine. Consider adding rubber bumpers inside cabinets to cushion closing.

With a variety of shapes, sizes and finishes to choose from, new kitchen cabinet hardware offers an easy update that can transform the look of your space in an afternoon.

Craft Custom Shelving for Additional Storage

Lack of storage space is a common problem in many homes. Luckily, there are lots of DIY shelving ideas that can easily maximize unused areas of your living space. Custom shelving is useful for both open and concealed storage needs. Floating shelves instantly add modern appeal while pipe shelving fits nicely in tight spaces. For a rustic element, try wood crate shelving. Endless design options allow you to build the perfect storage solution to suit your unique space and needs.

Follow these general steps for installing custom shelving:

• Determine location, approximate size and weight capacity needed. Have a stud finder on hand.
• Gather necessary supplies: lumber, brackets, paint/stain, tools for cutting and installing.
• Measure the area and mark stud locations for secure attachment. Cut shelves to desired size.
• Paint or stain shelves and brackets before assembling. Sealing the wood protects from damage.
• Attach brackets securely into studs or use hollow wall anchors. Follow manufacturer’s instructions.
• Install shelves onto brackets. Test weight capacity and make any needed reinforcements.
• Style shelves with bins, baskets, organizational containers or decorative items.

Achieving this DIY project does require some advanced skills like measuring, cutting lumber and drilling into studs. But with proper planning and care, you can create storage that fits your space perfectly. Get creative with shapes, colors and materials – the options are endless!

Refresh Tables and Furniture with Updated Hardware

Over time, the knobs and handles on your furniture can become loose, tarnished or dated. Replacing old hardware is an easy DIY project that allows you to update the look of side tables, dressers, cabinets and more without replacing the entire piece. Swapping in new handles, knobs or pulls ties together your room’s decor and adds an instant dose of modern or vintage flair.

When choosing new hardware, opt for finishes and styles that complement your existing furniture and design aesthetic. Matte black, brass and chrome are popular choices for modern spaces, while glass, crystal or ceramic knobs bring a more traditional look. Make sure to note the placement of existing hardware to calculate how many knobs, handles or pulls you’ll need.

Follow these tips to install new hardware on tables or furniture:

• Purchase necessary hardware and tools like screwdrivers, drill, tape measure, etc.
• Remove old hardware and clean surfaces thoroughly to remove residue.
• Fill in existing holes with wood filler and sand smooth once dry.
• Mark locations for new hardware based on existing indentations or by measuring.
• Drill pilot holes if necessary based on hardware type and manufacturer instructions.
• Attach new hardware securely by hand tightening screws or fasteners.
• Finish by cleaning new hardware and testing stability. Check drawers and doors for proper alignment.

Breathing new life into dated furniture is incredibly satisfying! Take time to find unique hardware that showcases your personal taste and complements your living space.

Style Mirrors and Wall Décor for Visual Interest

Blank walls can make a space feel cold and uninviting. An easy way to add visual interest is with decorative mirrors, artwork or wall accents. Mirrors brighten up dim spaces by reflecting light. They also create the illusion making small rooms appear larger. For a coordinated look, hang a series of framed prints or photos at eye level above furniture. Collections of various sized frames or gallery walls instantly add depth and personality to any blank wall.

When decorating with mirrors or wall art, follow these tips:

• Determine the ideal placement and hang mirrors/artwork approximately 57-60 inches from the floor.
• Pay attention to spacing between pieces and aim for even gaps. Step back periodically to check alignment.
• Secure lightweight items directly into drywall with nails or Command strips. For heavier items, use anchors and hang with picture wire.
• Arrange pieces creatively by mixing different sizes, frame styles and subjects. Grouping items creates an artful composition.
• Add lighting above artwork or mirrors to accentuate the pieces. Sconces, picture lights or track lighting work well.
• Clean mirrors and glass frames thoroughly before hanging to avoid streaks. Position out of direct sunlight to prevent glare.

The reflections and artistic flair mirrors and wall décor add are an easy way to amplify the design of any room. Feel free to mix different colors, textures and materials to achieve your desired aesthetic.

Display Meaningful Photos in Creative Ways

Photos of family, friends, pets and vacations hold special memories. Displaying meaningful photos around your home in creative ways allows you to highlight these memories through your décor. Rather than just sticking prints in frames, get innovative with display methods like photo clotheslines, picture ledges, floating cloud frames or 3D wall art.

To showcase your favorite snapshots:

• Select meaningful photos to feature in your home. Opt for a variety of sizes from small wallet prints to large canvases.
• Print photos at home or order customized prints and framed photos online for high quality.

• Create a photo gallery wall showcasing favorite memories. Mix frame sizes and styles for interest.
• Print extra copies of special photos to display around the home – try the kitchen, office, nightstands, etc.
• Use Command strips to display photos on windows and mirrors for quick changes.
• Arrange photo ledges or floating shelves to highlight snapshots without needing frames.
• Decorate staircases and railings with clipping photos on clotheslines with clothespins.
• Create a photo memo board to pin up recipes, reminders, tickets, etc. alongside pics.
• Use Washi tape to display photos on walls or furniture without damaging surfaces.
• Mod Podge photos onto household items like mirrors, vases, and lampshades for a unique look.
• Preserve wedding invites, baby announcements and more behind glass picture frames.

With a little creativity, you can honor your favorite memories in artful ways throughout your living space. Display special photos proudly to relive precious moments and add personal touches.

Incorporate Greenery for Fresh Appeal

Bringing lush greenery indoors instantly livens up living spaces and improves air quality. Potted plants, fresh flowers and leafy accents like wreaths or garlands add welcoming pops of color and life to any area. Don’t have a green thumb? Opt for faux plants and flowers that provide the same beauty without needing maintenance. When adding plants and floral accents, think about placement and proper care.

Tips for decorating with greenery:

• Determine your space’s light exposure to select plants that will thrive there. Low light? Choose low-maintenance pothos or snake plants. Prefer sun lovers like succulents or orchids? Place in bright windows.
• Choose planters and pots that complement your existing décor. Add trays under pots to protect surfaces from moisture damage.
• Arrange plants of varying heights, types and pot styles for visual interest.
• Refresh wilting flowers by recutting stems and changing water frequently. Or swap in longer-lasting dried and faux versions.
• Look for small living trees like dwarf citrus or fiddle leaf figs to make a statement.
• Prune back overgrowth to keep plants looking tidy. Wipe leaves often to prevent dust buildup.
• Add floral accents like wreaths, dried bundles, potpourri or garlands to side tables, walls and mantels.

Greenery brings vitality and freshness into spaces year-round. With proper placement and care, plants allow you to add a beautiful touch of nature right inside your home.

Repurpose and Update Old Furniture

Breathing new life into outdated furniture with DIY makeovers is extremely rewarding. Rather than tossing scratched and worn pieces, put in some elbow grease to repurpose them instead. With creativity and skill, you can refinish, paint, stencil, reupholster or repurpose tired furniture into stylish showstoppers.

Follow these basic steps for furniture makeovers:

• Evaluate condition of piece. Assess what needs repairs, refinishing, etc. Solid wood is best for DIY makeovers vs particleboard.
• Prepare surface by sanding, cleaning grime, applying wood filler, etc. to create a smooth base.
• Update existing hardware with spray paint or new knobs and handles.
• Transform the look with new paint, stain, decoupage, wallpaper or chalk paint finishes.
• Reupholster worn fabric, cushions and pillows by stapling or tacking on new coverings.
• Repurpose dated furniture, like turning a dresser into a bathroom vanity. Get creative!
• Add your own flair with details like decorative trim, edging, new legs or feet.
• Protect surfaces with polyurethane, sealants or protective waxes when finished.

Don’t discard old items just because they look worn. Invest some time and care into DIY furniture makeovers to create customized focal points that save money and prevent waste.

Organize Closets and Drawers for Functionality

Messy, cluttered closets and drawers are both an eyesore and make getting ready each day more difficult. Getting organized improves accessibility, utilizes all your space and makes routines flow smoothly. DIY closet and drawer organizers allow you to fully customize storage to suit your needs. Some easy upgrades include adding closet rods and shelves, drawer dividers and specialty hangers.

Follow these tips for an organized closet:

• Declutter first by sorting items to donate, trash, or relocate elsewhere. This frees up needed space.
• Install closet organizational systems like rods, shelves, baskets and storage cubes customized to your space. Measure first for optimal use of room.
• Use specialty hangers like pinch-clip, belt and pant hangers that hold multiple items. Stagger by height and type.
• Add over-door storage and hanging shoe organizers for maximizing vertical space usage.

For organized drawers:

• Clear drawers completely and wipe down. Assess contents and sort into categories.
• Purchase clear or matching drawer dividers and compartments based on your needs like jewelry, socks, undergarments, etc. Measure drawer dimensions first.
• Use drawer organizers vertically to create rows or stack smaller compartments. Label dividers if needed.
• Designate frequently used items in top drawers for easy access. Place lesser used items in bottom drawers.

Editing down clutter and installing DIY closet and drawer organizers creates smart storage that saves you time and frustration. Now you can easily see and access all your belongings!

Display Collections Creatively for Personality

Collections reflect your interests and passions while adding visual appeal. Show off your favorite sets of objects like books, souvenirs, rocks, shells or art in creative ways around your living space. Built-in shelving, shadowboxes, cabinets with lighting or freestanding display cases allow you highlight your collections while keeping them clean and damage-free. Make your displays focal points full of color, texture and personality.

Tips for creatively displaying collections:

• Decide on location and amount of space needed. Measure area to determine cabinet or shelving sizes needed.
• Build custom shelving and boxes to fit your collections or purchase ready-made display cases.
• Use risers, stands or small platforms to raise displayed items to view easily.
• Angle items toward the viewer and group similar objects together for visual flow.
• Use different heights, patterns and colors to add dimension.
• Add accent lighting above like pendant lights or spotlights to spotlight items.
• Label collections or display photos/memorabilia from where items originated.
• Change displays seasonally to keep it fresh and rotate delicate objects.

Showcasing your unique collections allows self-expression and adds decorative flair. With a little innovation, you can easily highlight any treasured set proudly within your living space.

Incorporate Warm Lighting for Ambiance

Lighting serves both functional and aesthetic purposes in home décor. Incorporating warm lighting sets a welcoming mood and showcases decor beautifully. Strategic lighting transforms rooms after dark and makes spaces feel cohesive. Prioritize task lighting in work areas, accent lighting to illuminate artwork and ambient soft glows for relaxation.

Follow these tips for warm, cohesive lighting:

• Layer lighting for depth. Combine overhead fixtures on ceilings and walls with table/floor lamps.
• Use dimmers, smart bulbs and multiple circuits to control light brightness as needed.
• Position floor and table lamps strategically to illuminate seating areas and surfaces without glares.
• Install sconces, picture lights and directional spotlights to accent décor.
• Select bulb temperatures that give off a soft, inviting glow. Stick to 2500-3000K to avoid harsh hues.
• Use globe string lights to add a delicate glow to headboards, shelves, stair rails and trees.
• Place flameless candles of varying heights around the home for an inviting flicker.
• Swap out outdated fixtures as needed for updated styles that complement your overall aesthetic.

Lighting sets the tone for a space while enabling functionality. Evaluate how your home illuminates currently and improve with warm, thoughtful lighting placement.

Final Touches to Pull Everything Together

After implementing DIY home décor projects, take a step back to evaluate how everything looks collectively. Your changes should flow together cohesively to create a welcoming space you’re excited to relax in. Add final touches by making adjustments and adding coordinating accessories that give rooms unity and purpose.

• Walk through each space and check for consistent color schemes, styles and textures that complement one another. Switch out any pieces that seem out of place.
• Note any sparse spots that need filler accents like trays, candles, blankets or greenery to complete the look.
• Rearrange accessories or art until visual balance is achieved. Step back to judge spacing and alignment.
• Add coordinating pillows, throws and area rugs to tie furnishings together into a cohesive theme.
• Make lighting adjustments so all spaces are properly illuminated for their purpose. Set mood with dimmers.
• Maintain clutter-free surfaces and storage areas. Hide cords/unsightly tech.

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Proper hanging of wall décor is key to pulling a room together. Periodically check for any slipping frames or crooked artwork and adjust accordingly. Use anchors and wall-safe adhesives when dealing with heavier items. For lighter pieces, be strategic with placement so they can be moved easily when rearranging.

Carefully evaluate furniture placement and rearrange as needed so conversational areas promote intimacy. Floating furniture away from walls makes spaces feel more open and inviting. Place accent chairs near focal points to create vignettes for unwinding.

Final Step

As a final step, thoroughly clean all surfaces including flooring, furniture, windows and decorative items. This gives every room a refreshed, polished look. Replace burnt out lightbulbs, tidy up work areas and touch up walls as needed. Clearing clutter and grime allows your decorative details to shine.

Stepping back and checking that all elements align visually completes the transformation. Effortfully styling your home creates a restful environment that nurtures relaxation and rejuvenation. Implementing DIY projects allows you to fully customize your space while saving money. With a little creativity, elbow grease and strategic tweaks, you can craft a living space that feels fresh, inspiring and uniquely you.