Looking for some home improvement ideas?
People do home improvement projects all the time. They renovate kitchens, redo bathrooms, replace carpeting, repaint walls and more. Some projects are more practical than others. In this article we’re going to give you a few ideas for your home improvement projects.
Real estate professionals would argue, for example, that ideas which add living space or boost a home’s curb appeal can increase resale value. Replacing old windows, a roof, or furnace when needed makes a home more functional and efficient.
But the concept of what’s practical can also change. If you never cook and eat out all the time, do you really need that fancy chef’s kitchen? If you travel for work three weeks a month, do you really want to add a home gym?
On the other hand, if you are more of a homebody, there might be some changes to your home that you will appreciate. Here are five DIY home improvement ideas to consider if you’re staying home more.
1: A home office
It might sound nice to lie in bed with your laptop while working from home, but people who are used to working remotely would tell you that having a dedicated workspace is important. Especially if you have children or a partner at home, a home office is essential. A spare bedroom can be turned into a home office, if even temporarily. So can a nook in a finished basement or attic. Often, it’s simply a matter of adding a desk, comfortable chair and any storage you’ll need for office supplies or papers.
2: A covered deck or porch
When the weather is nice, it’s tempting to take work outside. Sometimes, though, the glare from the sun makes it impossible to use a computer, tablet or phone screens outdoors. A covered area for your home’s exterior could solve that problem.
That could mean adding a roof to an existing deck, or maybe even just a pergola that can provide at least some shade. There are also retractable awnings that can be installed on your home’s wall, which when extended could provide shade for a deck or patio.
3: A home theatre
A dedicated theatre room in your home sounds like a luxury, and maybe it is, but if your media consumption habits change, it might come in handy.
With today’s technology, spare space in a basement, bonus room or extra bedroom can be transformed pretty quickly into a home theater. A large TV or screen and projector, a surround sound system and comfortable seating are all you need to watch your favorite movies or shows in style.
If you have children, you might especially appreciate an entertainment room separated from the rest of the house.
4: Outdoor recreation
Just as you might want to get outside to work when the weather is nice, your family will also want to get outdoors for play. This could make a swimming pool, home basketball court, or even just a playset for the kids more practical than if you weren’t spending so much time at home. Keep in mind that when people are social distancing, parks, playgrounds, and public pools might not always be options. Therefore, having some things to do in your own garden could be something you and your family get a lot of use out of.
5: Smart home technology
Smart home features are becoming more popular among people looking for home improvement ideas, so they can be a value proposition for your home. They’re also pretty convenient if you’re home all the time. Smart speakers, lights, thermostats, and window coverings make it easy to control your home’s environment. Cameras can allow you to remotely keep an eye on your children and entryways. There are even smart appliances available – you could potentially start your dishwasher or preheat your oven from your home office or bedroom.
When you’re away from home, there are things your house probably doesn’t need. But when you’re staying home more, a few DIY home improvement projects can not only add curb appeal to your home but also make your life at home a lot more convenient and fun.
