The alphabetical guide to showing your abode some special attention this season and beyond... Because home is where the heart is, and because it’s likely where you spend a majority of your free time, it’s important to show it some love and to make it a place that’s tailored just to you. Here are some places you may choose to invest some time, elbow grease and money that could really pay off.
A. ATTIC.
Basements get a lot of play for being spaces to transform into game rooms, offices and even mini-apartments, but don’t discredit your attic if you have one! It can be more than an area for storing things.
B. BEDROOM.
Ditch the clutter and blue light from electronic devices here and invest in a good night of sleep by instead focusing on incorporating calming colors, soothing sounds and a nightstand where you can keep a good book nearby.
C. COOLING.
Ditch those pesky window air conditioning units and see if you can invest in installing a central air system.
D. DOORS.
A statement front door can really set the tone for your home as guests approach. It’s a feature you can decorate seasonally and where you can show off your curb appeal personality.
E. ENERGY EFFICIENT.
Upgrade outdated appliances like your refrigerator, washer and dryer with Energy Star-rated versions that will save on your electric bill in the long run. Bonus: they’re better for the environment.
F. FLOORING.
Have pets and want to ditch the carpet in favor of hardwood? Have hardwood floors and want to spruce things up with an amazing area rug? Flooring can be a huge focal point in a room.
J. JACUZZI.
Get that hot tub you’ve been dreaming of, or upgrade your bathroom tub with one that features Jacuzzi jets. Ahh.
K. KITCHEN.
Not the one inside your home, an outdoor kitchen! If you love to cook and entertain, consider an outdoor pizza oven, top-of-the-line grill and seating area, too.
G. GREENERY.
An inexpensive investment you can make at home is to add some houseplants to your environment. Benefits include improved air quality, reduced stress and overall wellness. Just make sure that if you have pets that they are out of reach or are pet-safe.
H. HANDCRAFTED.
Having something unique and one-of-a-kind is a great way to make your home your own. Head to a local interiors store where they specialize in refurbishing furniture or invest in a piece of artwork to hang.
I. ICEBOX.
Go retro and purchase a fun, funky model or grab a storage freezer to store perishables to free-up space in your kitchen’s refrigerator.
L. LAUNDRY.
A dedicated laundry space where you can sort clothing, store necessities and have an easy area for folding can feel like a lifesaver at times and makes the chore a lot easier.
M. MUDROOM.
If you have kids this one is great. It’s a place they can kick off their shoes, hang jackets and store backpacks before entering your main living space and adding clutter.
N. NESTING.
In the winter months in particular, you are likely spending time cuddled up in the warm comfort of home. Consider investing in an assortment of cozy blankets to have on hand and fun baskets and bins to store them in when not in use.
O. OFFICE.
Working from home is more popular than ever before. If you’re doing it, try to find a space where you feel productive and that doesn’t intrude with other functions of your home. Say no to setting up shop in your bedroom or in the kitchen.
P. PORCH (OR PATIO).
The thought of a porch swing invites feelings of relaxation. Take this to heart and create the outdoor sitting space of your dreams and get the most out of warm weather months.
Q. QUIET SPACE. This could be your bedroom, or even your bathroom or a sunroom. Invest in a spot where you can retreat at home and where all the touches are meant to encourage relaxing and unwinding.
R. RETRO TOUCH.
Love the look of Smeg appliances or an old Victrola? Invest in and incorporate your favorite antiques into your décor.
S. SOLAR.
Want to save on your electric bill and invest in the environment, too? Consider an initial splurge on installing solar panels. It will pay off in the long run.
T. TV.
Is binge-watching or having friends over to watch the game your thing? Invest in that big-screen TV you’ve been eyeing. You may want to add a surround system, too.
U. UNIQUE PIECES.
Do you have drawings from a child that are cherished? Old family photos you need to frame and hang? Treasures you picked up while traveling? Make them centerpieces in your home and show them off.
V. VELVET.
There’s no better material to add if you’re looking for a lush, romantic touch. Consider it for curtains, pillows, or even on your sofa.
W. WINDOWS.
New windows can be an expensive investment, but when they’re airtight and properly installed they can enhance your home’s look and help with heating and cooling efforts.
X. XYSTUS.
What is it? By definition, it’s a garden walk surrounded by trees. If you love a lush landscape, consider meeting with an area professional to see how he or she can help transform your outdoor space.
Y. “YEAR OF.”
Every year, PANTONE announces its popular Color the Year. If it’s one that appeals to you, consider purchasing accents for your home in the shade. This year, the shade is Viva Magenta.
Z. ZONES.
If you’re a fan of dedicated spaces versus an open concept area at home, consider adopting zones for each room that are conducive to organizing and performing that room’s functions.
