Purchasing a new home is an exciting milestone, but deciding where to begin with upgrades can be overwhelming. To help you prioritize, I have compiled a list of impactful enhancements that lay a strong foundation for your decorating and renovation journey. These strategic changes will not only elevate your home’s aesthetics but also ensure that you don’t regret skipping essential upgrades in the future. Remember, it’s better to focus on doing one room or area thoroughly rather than spreading your budget too thin. A well-executed space leaves a lasting impression and sets the stage for subsequent projects.
1. Upgrade Baseboards and Casings
Mouldings add depth and sophistication to any room. Opt for taller, more substantial baseboards that complement the proportions of the space and ceiling height.
Pro Tip: For 8’ ceilings, a minimum 5” baseboard is ideal, while 9’ ceilings call for 7” baseboards. A 3.5”-wide casing is a versatile and timeless choice that works well in most designs.
2. Replace Bifold or Sliding Doors with Hinged Doors
Bifold doors may be a builder’s shortcut, but they often lack functionality and durability. Hinged doors not only offer better performance but also create a polished and cohesive look.
Sliding doors have their place in tight spaces, but whenever possible, prioritize hinged doors for a more refined aesthetic.
3. Invest in Solid Wood Doors
Solid wood doors provide greater durability, sound insulation, and an elevated sense of quality compared to hollow-core options.
Pro Tip: When replacing hollow-core doors with solid ones, consider adding a third hinge for additional support. A skilled carpenter can seamlessly adjust the door jambs to accommodate the extra hinge.
4. Adopt a Cohesive Wall Color Palette
Painting open-concept spaces or the main floor in a unified color instantly makes the area feel larger and more harmonious.
Pro Tip: For light-colored walls, painting the ceiling in the same shade creates the illusion of taller ceilings by eliminating the horizontal separation line.
5. Eliminate Popcorn or Textured Ceilings
Removing popcorn or textured ceilings is a transformative upgrade that enhances the room’s modernity and allows for future additions like crown moulding and recessed lighting.
Tackling this messy project upfront is crucial. Avoid delaying until the home is furnished, as it can disrupt your space and complicate the process.
6. Upgrade Lighting Fixtures
Lighting has a profound impact on a room’s ambiance and functionality. Replace small, central ceiling Lighting has an impact on a room’s ambiance and functionality. Replace small, central ceiling fixtures with recessed lighting to create a more expansive and balanced feel.
Pro Tip: Always install dimmers to adjust lighting levels for various moods and occasions. If recessed lighting isn’t feasible, opt for larger semi-flush fixtures to better align with the room’s proportions. Layering light sources, such as table lamps and sconces, further enhances depth and warmth.
These upgrades are foundational steps toward creating a timeless and functional home. By focusing on these impactful changes, you’ll be well-positioned to enjoy the decorative and fun aspects of design in the future, knowing that your home’s essentials are expertly addressed.
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