Crafts & DIY
How to beautifully update a dated home without costly remodeling
You don't have to spend thousands to make your outdated home look refreshed and "new"!
Michael Dabu
06.12.24

Updating a dated home doesn’t necessarily require a costly remodel.

Often, small changes can have a significant impact.

When I first moved into my home, it looked outdated, but I managed to transform it without major renovations.

These ten simple updates made all the difference, and they can do the same for you.

YouTube - Welsh Design Studio
Source:
YouTube - Welsh Design Studio

Paint is an incredibly powerful tool.

It’s the quickest way to change the appearance of your home without breaking the bank.

I painted the walls, kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and even some exterior and interior doors.

It’s amazing how a fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into a space.

Don’t stop at walls; consider painting baseboards, trim, built-ins, tiles, floors, countertops, and fireplaces too.

The variety of materials and finishes available means you can achieve any look you desire, from a sleek modern aesthetic to a cozy farmhouse feel.

YouTube - Welsh Design Studio
Source:
YouTube - Welsh Design Studio

Replacing outdated light fixtures can dramatically update your home’s look.

Focus on entry lights, chandeliers, vanity lights, and flush-mount ceiling lights to make the most impact.

I swapped out my old fixtures for more contemporary ones, and the difference was night and day.

New lighting can brighten up your space and add a touch of elegance.

YouTube - Welsh Design Studio
Source:
YouTube - Welsh Design Studio

Updating doors is another effective way to refresh your home.

Old, hollow, flat doors can be replaced with white panel doors for a more modern appearance.

If replacing isn’t in the budget, painting the existing doors and updating the hardware can also work wonders.

Adding custom molding to doors can further enhance their look, giving your home a polished finish.

YouTube - Welsh Design Studio
Source:
YouTube - Welsh Design Studio

Baseboards often go unnoticed, but they play a crucial role in a room’s overall appearance.

Replacing small or dated baseboards with taller, white-painted ones can make a significant difference.

I added a small trim above my existing baseboards and painted both, which created a more sophisticated look.

It’s a simple change that yields impressive results.

YouTube - Welsh Design Studio
Source:
YouTube - Welsh Design Studio

If your carpet is over 10-15 years old, it might be time to replace it.

When I pulled up my old carpet, I discovered beautiful hardwood floors underneath.

If that’s not an option, consider installing new hardwood, luxury vinyl, or even new carpet.

Fresh flooring can transform the feel of a room instantly.

YouTube - Welsh Design Studio
Source:
YouTube - Welsh Design Studio

Outlets, switch plates, and thermostats are often overlooked, but updating these can modernize your home.

Switching out old ivory outlets and switches for white ones made a huge difference in my home.

Replacing old analog thermostats with digital programmable ones not only looks better but can also improve energy efficiency.

YouTube - Welsh Design Studio
Source:
YouTube - Welsh Design Studio

Updating grimy or outdated faucets in the bathroom is an easy yet impactful change.

When I replaced mine, I chose faucets with the same hole configuration as the existing ones to simplify the process.

The new faucets added a fresh, clean look to the space.

YouTube - Welsh Design Studio
Source:
YouTube - Welsh Design Studio

Adding molding can introduce character and sophistication to any room.

Crown molding, new window trim, and wainscoting are all great options.

In my home, I highlighted existing character details with a fresh coat of paint, which made them stand out beautifully.

Replacing old knobs and pulls on cabinets and doors is a quick and inexpensive project that can modernize your home.

I swapped out all the hardware in my kitchen and bathroom, and it instantly updated the look of the entire space.

YouTube - Welsh Design Studio
Source:
YouTube - Welsh Design Studio

Finally, updating window treatments can have a significant impact.

Removing old blinds or heavy drapes lets more light in and modernizes the look.

I chose lighter, more contemporary window treatments, which created a fresh and airy feel throughout my home.

These simple updates can uncover the hidden potential of a dated home.

By making these changes, you can transform your space into a place you love, just as I did.

It’s amazing how a few thoughtful updates can lead to a pleasantly surprising transformation.

So, don’t be afraid to try these changes in your own home – you might be amazed at the results!

Watch the full video below.

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