Simple home updates that make a big impact

Every home needs an update or a refresh every now and again; not to chase trends or impress the neighbours, but simply to stay functional, feel fresh, and give worn-out spaces the care they deserve.

Still, when words like ‘refurbishment’ or ‘maintenance’ come up, it’s only natural to tighten the purse strings. Home updates are often associated with high costs and lengthy to-do lists, but that doesn’t have to be the case.

We’ve rounded up five small home updates that make a big impact, without draining your time or budget.

1. Update your lighting fixtures

Lighting can completely change the mood of a room, and the good news is, most updates won’t require an electrician.

Best upgrades to instantly refresh:

• Swap out harsh bulbs for warm-toned LED bulbs (look for 2700K or 3000K for a cosy glow)
• Replace old lamp shades with ones that add a pop of colour or pattern
• Install dimmer switches to adjust light levels and set the mood
• Add stick-on LED strips under kitchen cupboards, TV stands, or shelves for subtle, modern highlights

2. Update door and cupboard handles

You’ll be surprised at the impact a few new handles and knobs can make. Look around your local thrift or homeware store, often selling beautiful and modern pieces that give your doors and cupboards a whole new feel, no renovation required.

Best upgrades to instantly refresh:

• Mix different materials, like matte black, brass, wood, or ceramic, for a refined touch
• Try patterned and textured handles and knobs for a more playful, creative finish
• Install soft-drawer mechanisms in kitchens and bathrooms for a modern feel
• Upgrade your front door with a smart lock, a small change that boasts style and security

3. Repaint, repaint, repaint

What a world of difference a fresh lick of paint does to a room! And all you’ll need is a few brushes, paint, and some helping hands! Whether you’re repainting a whole room or just touching up worn patches (from moving damage, kids being kids, or unruly pets), a little paint goes a long way.

Best upgrades to instantly refresh:

• Cover up scuffs, nail holes, or scratches for a cleaner look
• Focus on high-traffic areas like hallways or around light switches
• Create a feature wall in a bold colour for maximum impact with minimum effort
• Consider peel-and-stick wallpaper in a favourite pattern or texture for something a little different

4. Update your accent pieces

The finishing touches that can make or break a room are its accent pieces. Think mirrors, artwork, pillows, throws, rugs, and carpets. They add warmth, personality, and polish. Swapping them out seasonally or when your taste shifts is a simple way to breathe new life into any room.

Best upgrades to instantly refresh:

• Rehang any crooked mirrors or hanging artwork, making sure they’re at eye-level (around 145cm from the floor to the centre)
• Use mirrors to bounce natural light into dark spaces
• Choose accent pieces in colours that complement your space without overwhelming it
• Layer rugs or change up textures to add warmth and interest

5. Finally fix those “I’ll get to it” repairs

Every home has them. That cupboard drawer that won’t open? The door that doesn’t close properly? The tap that keeps you up at night with its constant dripping? These minor annoyances can be easy to ignore, but fixing them can significantly improve the comfort and flow of your home.

Best upgrades to instantly refresh:

• Mend that squeaky hinge or jammed drawer; most fixes take less than 10 minutes
• Repair or tighten anything that rattles, leaks, or misaligns
• Use the momentum to reassess underused nooks; you might find a new way to make them shine

You don’t need to stretch your pockets to update your home. By making a few small updates here and there, you can breathe new life into your space without taking on a full renovation or spending a fortune. Whether it’s swapping out door handles, creating a stunning accent wall, or finally fixing that tap that wakes you up at 2 a.m., these small updates can make your home feel fresher, calmer, and more “you”.

Start small and let the momentum guide you; your future home is just a few tweaks away!

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Featured Image: Pexels

A version of this article was first written by Annemieke van Nieuwkerk for Food&Home.