Do you want to make your home look new without breaking the bank? Did you know that a few changes and tools can turn your ordinary area into something special? I’ll present you with some simple home projects in this article that will help your interior design and make your rooms stand out. Every idea in this book is useful for decorating, simple enough for anyone to start with and looks great in any home.
Easy DIY Wall Art Using Everyday Items
Wall decor is a simple way for me to make my space mine, thanks in large part to repurposing items around my home. Fabric scraps, old picture frames, corkboards and kitchen utensils are a few of the objects I regularly use for this project. What we really want is for these DIY artworks to be attractive and inspire conversations. This design looks best in a home with a simple or contemporary design, so that the art really catches your eye.
In one of my preferred setups, I cut old cutting boards into coasters, applied some old house paint and turned them into unique decor pieces. I themed these up with some stenciled wall hangings and retro baking molds. The matte black backdrop made all the items stand out, while still keeping the display simple. The jewelry is available in many forms and from a range of materials, but they come together to create an interesting collection.
From what I have seen, people enjoy it when their art feels like it was made just for them. It’s possible to frame or display handwritten recipes and kids’ drawings as part of your décor. Better Homes & Gardens states that letting things be imperfect and bringing in old treasures can increase how you feel in a room. I absolutely agree with you.
A good idea is to put a shelf beneath the wall art, so you can move in seasonal items or candles to match the display.
Transform Old Furniture With Chalk Paint
Chalk painting some old furniture was among the most fulfilling DIY projects I’ve taken on. Whether it’s a dresser, nightstand, or an old desk, chalk paint allows for a matte, velvety finish without the need for heavy sanding or priming. It’s a good method for lovers of vintage designs or anyone who wants their interiors to stand out without investing in new furniture.
In that project, I covered an older oak dresser with white chalk paint and changed the knobs to brushed gold. It was a very noticeable difference. The paint’s softness alongside the metal made the piece look both elegant and rough. I stood the picture up against a navy-blue wall so it could stand out more.
Personally, I think chalk painting is very forgiving, so it’s suitable for those just starting out. I like to rub the corners a bit with sandpaper which helps give the set a more old-fashioned feel. As I have learned from HGTV, painting furniture adds interest and warmth to a bedroom which is always something I look for when designing.
To wrap up this section, I want students to know you can create more beautiful decorations by applying a stencil or decoupage to the drawer fronts.
DIY Floating Shelves For Extra Storage
Using floating shelves is an easy and attractive option for people who need some storage space but don’t want clunky furniture. They fit perfectly in bathrooms, kitchens and small hallways because I don’t have much room there. They aren’t only for storage—they also look great when styled with decor.
Setting up three wooden shelves stained in walnut above the toilet in a small bathroom was one way I organized my bathroom. Small potted plants, glass jars of cotton balls and Q-tips and a picture frame holding a quote were arranged on each shelf. With dark wood and bright white walls and fixtures, the space looked just like a relaxing spa.
While installing floating shelves might look hard, it gets easy once the wall studs are found. I fix the flags with tough anchors and check their alignment using a level. Using Real Simple Magazine’s advice, vertical space can help make any room seem bigger and better organized.
Under-shelf hooks are a great way to organize mugs, towels or keys under the right kind of shelf.
Create A Rustic Mason Jar Organizer
Mason jars have always caught my eye and it’s not only because of their old-fashioned look, but also because they are great for different DIY projects. Turning a mason jar into a mounted organizer is one of my favorite projects to do at home. This smooth farmhouse look matches perfectly in bathrooms, kitchens and the craft area.
Recently, I used four mason jars and pipe clamps to attach them to a reclaimed board of wood. I hung the board up on one of the kitchen walls. Inside the jars were cooking items, fresh herbs and garlic. The warmth of the wood and the clear containers made it easy to see what everything was.
Success here is about making sure your choices for colors and finishes go well together. My preference for wood cuff bracelets is antique brass clamps and a distressed wood style. The client we did the bathroom for loved how slick their blue-tinted jars for cotton swabs and brushes looked and worked. A few years back, I followed a Country Living suggestion to use mason jar lights and loved how they looked.
It would be nice to put a chalkboard label with the name of each ingredient on every jar which makes everything clearer and cuter.
Upcycle Wooden Pallets Into Coffee Tables
There’s a great feeling when you can make interesting pieces from objects that are no longer used. I’ve upcycled wooden pallets into several custom coffee tables, each tailored to the room’s theme. If you’re going for rustic, industrial or modern-farmhouse decor, this can be a terrific DIY furniture project.
I stacked two pallets, sanded them, colored them with dark espresso stain and put rolling caster wheels on them to allow them to roll. A smooth glass top on top of the wood made the table sturdy, easy to clean and trendy. The cabinet looked wonderful against the neutral-colored sectional and the rest of the room.
When choosing pallets, I always check for heat-treated stamps (marked “HT”) to ensure safety. I add extra boards where there are any gaps and finish the whole piece with polyurethane for protection. Apartment Therapy and other designers agree that DIY plays a big role in making special furniture. It helps create interest and individuality in your space.
You could make this section better by inserting a lower shelf between the pallets for storage baskets or items you’d like to hide.
Handmade Terrariums For A Fresh Look
Plants in a home add both beauty and health benefits and you can do this with classy terrariums. I’ve made a lot of DIY terrariums in the past, choosing glass jars and adding air plants and succulents. They add a fresh, minimal maintenance style to any space.
Recently, I decided to use a large apothecary jar, lining it with pebbles, activated charcoal and some cactus soil. Following that, I put in three little succulents and moss. After that, I spread pebbles on top and placed a small ceramic owl at one corner. My hallway console now holds this piece and adds a pleasant and calming atmosphere.
They’re not only meant for growing plants—they can be designed as fun little gardens. Loading them in clear glass or plastic jars with large openings is a helpful idea. According to Martha Stewart Living, placing different-height terrariums on shelves helps give the space a pleasing botanical look.
If you’d like, install LED strip lights below the shelf so they can add more illumination to your terrarium.
DIY Photo Gallery Wall
A photo gallery wall might be the most enjoyable DIY decorating project you do. It’s simple, won’t break the bank and helps your home truly feel like it’s yours. I have put gallery walls up in hallways, stairways and even the bathroom; they’re a nice touch anywhere.
To create a modern style, I use black frames all the same size and place them evenly. Because each photo is in black and white, all the images look like a unified set. I’ve played around with various frame sizes and orientations to make the portfolio look more varied. A light wall makes the perfect background for showing this type of art.
Arranging the layout carefully is very important. Before attaching items to the wall, I lay out frames on the ground and use painter’s tape to outline the pattern on the floor. It is suggested by The Spruce to space your frames about 2-3 inches apart for a professional finish. I enjoy using art prints, quotes and travel photos to break up my walls.
To enhance this project, I’d include a picture ledge below the frames for rotating seasonal artwork or kids’ creations.
Repurpose Crates As Storage Cubes
Converted wooden crates have been one of the easiest and most useful DIY projects I’ve managed at home. It’s best for adding flexible storage to your living room, bedroom or entryway. Simply stacking, mounting or placing crates underneath furniture can give rooms a rustic look. What makes them great is that you can apply paint or stain to ensure they match your home’s interior.
I organized four crates in a 2×2 setup and attached them with screws inside the room, then painted the finished product matte black to go with the baseboard trim. Replaceable boxes for decoration and several wire baskets hold my chargers and remotes inside the cubes. Because the fronts are open, you can easily reach what you need while keeping the area in order.
In my opinion, fitting either caster wheels or hairpin legs to the top of these cubes completes their appearance. Bob Vila once noted that wooden crates are among the most underutilized DIY resources, and I couldn’t agree more. Because of their differently sized and shaped bodies, trucks can do many different jobs.
An improvement could be achieved by adding cushioning to the inner sides with fabric or wallpaper, as this makes rooms more pleasant and coordinated in bedrooms or nurseries.
Easy Fabric-Covered Bulletin Boards
Bulletin boards are functional, but they don’t have to look boring. A decorating tip I really enjoy is wrapping corkboards in nice fabric and finishing with decorative elements. They act as both practical and attractive pieces in your home office, kitchen or craft works area. You can finish it fast and still see amazing results.
Linens were used for the main fabric in my workspace and I bordered each edge with brass tacks for a textured finish. I put my frame in an old style and hung it above where my desk is. This bag saves space by holding photos, notes and swatches, all the while blending with the rest of your interior.
What’s impressive about this project is that you don’t need many materials and you don’t need to sew. Use spray adhesive and a staple gun to guarantee that the board will not move. House Beautiful notes that personalizing where you work can actually help you be more creative and get your job done faster—which my work experience agrees with.
Consider using up the fabrics to create a coordinating pencil holder or desk mat to bring everything in your study together.
Create Your Own Candle Holders
There’s a special charm to candlelight and you can easily add it to your home by making your own candle holders. Cement, glass, copper pipes and tree branches are all materials I’ve used to create my holders. They help give dining tables, mantels and bathroom vanities a unique feel.
One way I played with copper was to fashion tea light holders using little copper plumbing parts. I made the copper radiant and placed them in a tray made from old wood. Mixing soft wood with warm metal achieved a smart, yet comforting look for the room.
What’s even better about this project is that you can make it any way you like—modern, rustic or boho. According to Elle Decor, mixing metals and natural textures in small accessories like candle holders can elevate a room’s aesthetic without overwhelming it.
I’d propose adding variations in height by either making holders in several sizes together or stacking elements one on top of the other.
Install A Peel-And-Stick Backsplash
It keeps surprising me how effective a peel-and-stick backsplash is at changing a room’s appearance. They are good products for people renting and want to install something nice in their kitchens or bathrooms at the weekend. They’re an affordable option, you don’t need any tools and they copy the looks of tile, marble or metal perfectly.
My recent kitchen upgrade included using glossy white subway tile stickers. After, everything looked modern, carefully arranged and the open area seemed cheery and dignified. It only took a couple hours to fit the screen and I could wipe it clean with a damp cloth.
There are so many styles to pick from and some of them actually have 3D textures. I start by cleaning the wall so it’s clean, then use a utility knife for well-defined and neat edges. This Old House suggests peel-and-stick backsplashes because they are sturdy and easy to install where moisture is common.
You might also consider having under-cabinet lighting put in which would make the backsplash stand out and add a better-quality look to your kitchen.
DIY Window Seat With Storage
Adding storage to your window seat takes more effort, but it’s definitely worthwhile. It gives an extra seating area and storage to rarely used parts of bedrooms, hallways or dining rooms. I put mine next to a bay window and it made the space look like new.
I assembled the bench frame from MDF and had the top hinged to provide inside storage. I completed the space by adding a custom cushion and some throw pillows. We’ve moved board games and extra blankets to the bench and kept it around so people can relax, read or unwind while looking out.
You should measure twice and attach the seat sturdily to the wall. I relied on The Family Handyman which advises that using piano hinges adds smoothness to the lid’s movement and cushions with foam keep the crate comfortable. Thanks to what they shared, I could avoid most common challenges.
Pull-out drawers may be better than a hinged top if you plan to use the storage a lot—it’s simpler and easier on your body.
Refresh Cabinets With New Hardware
Fixing new knobs and pulls makes a kitchen or bathroom look new without you having to buy a new cabinet. This DIY project is easy for beginners and gives you fast results you can see. Whether I’m working in an older or newer home, upgrading the hardware always seems to make a big difference.
For one bathroom, I replaced the old chrome knobs with black bar pulls. As soon as I was done, everything looked totally different and much more cohesive with the new additions. I finished the whole vanity in about an hour.
Be sure to match the finish of your hardware with already present metals in the room and make sure the screw holes are even with the screws you already have. In Domino Magazine, hardware swaps are promoted as a cheap but powerful method for giving a room a new look and I think that’s spot on.
Include backplates to add to the drama or simply use two finishes together—brushed brass and matte black make a sophisticated look.
Build A Custom Pegboard Wall
An organized wall with pegboard is always my first choice for keeping tools or craft materials in order. This medium can be adjusted in so many different directions. Closets aren’t the only place I recommend; I’ve installed them in garages, pantries and even kids’ playrooms as well. With some color and a little creativity, a pipe can look good as well as serving a purpose.
I painted my large pegboard a soft gray and enclosed it with pine trim hung with nails. Using hooks, shelves and wire baskets, I arranged scissors, tapes and sketchbooks. It is easy to adjust the layout which matches any changing requirements. Not only that, it saves you from clogging up your drawers.
I believe that the project works best when it is made unique to my taste. Place some floating shelves, jars and lights above or next to the pegboard. According to Architectural Digest, you can add a pegboard to your creative area to display your tools and gain extra ideas.
Let’s close this with a tip: Put a magnetic strip or a quick chalkboard on the wall alongside the pegboard for notes and making quick sketches.
Make A Statement With Painted Doors
I found out right away that painting my doors completely changed the ambiance of each room as I worked on refreshing my home on a budget. Bland hallways became much more interesting when painted in navy blue, sage green or matte black. The room looks more elegant thanks to easy design changes, not by updating major features.
I like applying high-quality semi-gloss or satin paint for its durability and because it’s easy to clean. You can complete the look by adding beautifully finished brass or subtle black knobs or handles. With neutral walls surrounding them, these door accents stand out clearly in any area of the room—most especially in simple spaces.
Experience has shown me that this project gives the house its own charm. Joanna Gaines believes that carefully putting color on doors can give a space just the right touch of subtle charm. For me, it’s a clear improvement.
If you decide to go further, try painting a geometrical shape or include a piece of chalkboard paint on your door for added usefulness. The few seconds it takes for these enhancements makes your door special.
DIY Entryway Bench With Hooks
Despite being small, your entrance is actually the first impression your house gives. With only a DIY bench and some hooks, you can quickly keep bags, coats and keys arranged in small spaces. Make one with reclaimed wood and black metal hooks and you’ll see the difference right away.
For maximum suitability with your furniture, I advise using oak if your home is traditional or pine if you want a rustic feel. Put a cushion on the sofa and place a few storage baskets beneath it. The hooks must be evenly lined above the bench and fixed into a wooden layer at the back for more endurance.
With kids around or lots of guests over, this project can make your life much easier. It helps keep your home free from clutter and gives it a friendly note. Better Homes & Gardens believes that putting in benches and hooks near the front door is an easy way to add storage without messing up the space.
For one look, paint the bench to coordinate with your wall paneling; for another, use a different color contrast to make it stand out. A mirror above the hooks will make the space brighter and look more open.
Decorative Ladder For Blank Walls
I added a decorative wooden ladder to my home and it really brought a lovely look to the space. You can easily hang throws, strands of lights or magazines from it in your living room or bedroom. A ladder introduces height and a bit of character to normally empty or boring vertical spaces.
I started with pine that had visible history and then used a light stain to highlight the grain. Because it leans against the wall, it’s an excellent choice for anyone who doesn’t want to put holes in the wall, especially renters. A good guideline is to use at least five rungs and putting up seasonal decor or woven baskets gives your ladder a friendly touch.
Although this style is popular in farmhouse decor, it fits right into minimalist and boho designs too. Real Simple used original barn wood, creating an interesting and inviting appearance. Because this piece is flexible, you can change its look as your room changes.
Another idea is to stream soft LED fairy lights or add some artificial plants that bring in textured changes to the background. Attach non-slip pads at the base to guarantee the table remains safe for everyone in your family.
Turn Tin Cans Into Stylish Planters
You can green up your home and be creative by recycling tin cans by using them as planters. Making this project at home helps you decorate with plants and recycle everyday household objects. I put mine in the kitchen window right away and it added both life and personality to the space.
The cans can be painted in chalk paint to look simple, wrapped in jute rope for a rustic feel or decorated with printed paper. First, drill holes in the bottom for water drainage and top with pebbles before applying soil. Little succulents, herbs or even trailing ivy look lovely planted in small containers.
I’ve found that these planters fit well on shelves, windowsills or on top of desks. Apartment Therapy mentions that small indoor gardening helps clean the air and lower stress levels and I’ve noticed how peaceful and caring my kitchen becomes with several pots around.
Try arranging three or five differently sized planters on top of a wooden slice or tray to create a more stylish look.
DIY Rope Mirror For Nautical Charm
A rope mirror you make yourself brings coastal beauty and interest to your hallway, bathroom or bedroom. By using a round mirror and thick natural jute rope, I made my own dream catcher, so it’s now one of the most praised aspects of my home. Textured surfaces and warm colors make otherwise dull reflections pleasant to look at.
I started out using a mirror with no frame and I attached the rope tightly, coiling it around the entire border with industrial-strength glue. If you prefer, wrap it more to get a thicker line or tie up a loop at the top for a simpler way to hang it. A white or seafoam green wall adds just the right nautical touch, leaving the look only slightly maritime.
Coastal-style interiors are now common and Pinterest often recommends this look to fans of beach and lakestyle designs. Because it’s both simple and formal, you can use it in many spaces.
If you want it to catch the eye even more, set it against a wooden panel background or display it on a table, using matching rope baskets below for balance.
Create A Cozy Reading Nook
All you really need for a comfortable reading spot is quiet space, comfortable seating and the right environment. I changed my bedroom window bay into a calm area by using several layers of textiles, softer lighting and mounted shelving.
A little armchair or padded bench is the best, put it beside throw pillows, a lovely knit blanket and a floor lamp fitted with a warm-looking bulb. Shelves fixed to the wall and a little table for drinks or snacks round out the room. Roman blinds or light curtains allow you to change how much light you let in and also provide privacy.
This is what I turn to after having a long day. Taking time to read in a chosen reading space can boost your mental health and lower stress levels, according to Elle Decor. I’ve found that I now spend much more time reading in the office because I love the atmosphere.
Besides, you can include a scented candle, a unique proverb frame or a wall light to make the room more special for you.
Frame Your Light Switch Covers
Replacing light switch covers has a big visual effect for very little effort. At first, I tried this project in my guest room and found that it really lively up the space. It makes something useful also look appealing.
Choose a small photo frame that doesn’t have glass in it for a better effect. If you have traditional surroundings, go with a wooden frame or pick brushed metal if your furniture is contemporary. Cut the backing to match the size of the switch or outlet and stick it place using adhesive strips so it can be easily taken off.
I discovered this while watching a HGTV renovation and now I’ve applied it to a number of rooms. It’s an affordable way to finish rooms quickly, with a added sense of exclusivity in powder rooms or hallways.
Make the overall look of your project special by setting your framed items in fancy or vintage-looking frames and placing similar art or wall decorations around.
Build Your Own Farmhouse Headboard
Designing a headboard in a farmhouse style was a very enjoyable home project. It immediately lends the bedroom a natural, countryside style and it feels special because you create it yourself. Choose pieces made of reclaimed wood to help your space move from plain to extraordinary.
With weathered oak, I created boundary walls with a layered feel, putting the boards across. The headboard was given an aged look by being whitewashed just slightly. If you decorate with extra bolts or cross beams, your room will get a barn-door look which fits perfectly with neutral colors and comfy, natural-fiber textures like linen and cotton.
What I’ve discovered is that it encourages others to approach me in conversation. Many people ask me how I got my furniture and are surprised when I reveal it’s from my own DIY skills. An article in Country Living suggested attaching sconces to the headboard for warmth and lighting and that idea would be great for your space as well.
If you’d like to enhance your bedroom, you can add a ledge for books or candles behind the pillows. The simple addition makes it both function better and look better.
Install A Chalkboard Wall In The Kitchen
Having a chalkboard wall in your kitchen is an excellent way to use DIY ideas. You get something useful and creative to use in the kitchen. I put a chalkboard on the wall next to my pantry and it quickly became where our family wrote lists, drew things and left notes.
It is very easy to get and apply chalkboard paint. If you want clean edges, painter’s tape should do the trick or you can use molding for a more polished finish. You can use magnetic chalkboard paint to pin your notes or pictures alongside what you write which is great if your kitchen follows a modern or industrial theme.
Emily Henderson and similar designers often suggest chalkboard walls as they’re practical and look beautiful too, especially for apartments or kitchens without walls. A well-loved finish makes a room look more cozy and friendly.
If you’re looking to expand this idea, pair the wall with floating shelves above or below to store chalk, mugs, or small plants. Adding this small update to your kitchen gives you something to look at and extra storage.
Make A Floating Nightstand
If space is limited or your interior is minimal, a floating nightstand is just what you need. My guest room is much bigger now after I built a bed in it, saving valuable floor area. A wall-mounted unit looks best for modern or Scandinavian areas, where lines are kept clean and simple.
I built the shelf from a solid pine board, stained it dark walnut and fixed it with hidden brackets. One minimal pull-open drawer holds everything so the countertop remains free from clutter. I mounted a wall sconce over the console and added a small succulent and a clock to the top.
You can benefit from this project if you’re looking for a cleaner, less cluttered look in your bedroom. Architectural Digest regularly shows how making your home simple and clear can convert any space into a serene rest area.
Should your creativity call, you might choose to insert a USB port or a cable grommet so you can charge devices or add a little leather sling at the bottom holding your magazines or books.
DIY Under-Bed Rolling Storage
Until I made DIY rolling storage drawers, I didn’t realize how I could use under-bed space. You can use these for storing your seasonal clothing, additional bed linen or children’s toys, without adding mess to your room.
I built mine using medium-density fiberboard (MDF), added small caster wheels underneath, and installed finger pulls on the front panels. Maybe paint your suitcase to match your bedroom furniture or place stenciled numbers on them for fun. The smooth movement of these drawers comes without requiring tracks.
According to me, this product should be in every small bedroom or shared home. Utilizing vertical and hidden storage is what keeps a house tidy and easy to use, according to The Spruce and this project does both very well.
You can use fabric bins in your drawers for sorted storage or put felt inside to keep sensitive garments safe from damage.
Reuse Old Windows As Wall Decor
Upcycling old windows for wall decor has been one of the prettiest and most environmentally friendly ideas I’ve tried. These vintage frames add character and texture to a room, especially if you’re drawn to cottage or farmhouse design aesthetics. I placed mine over the sofa in my living room and now it’s the main feature in the room.
Begin with a recycled window frame—if the glass is whole, keep it, otherwise remove it. Rub off the bumps, paint the frame as you wish and hang it whichever way fits your space best. I placed a little wreath and some fairy lights inside to dress up the place for each holiday.
You will often see interior designers like Joanna Gaines add interesting details by using reclaimed architecture. You can easily mix rustic and modern looks with this design.
You can go even further and use the panes to feature family pictures or quotes printed on clear film, much like little open galleries.
Build A Bookshelf With Cinder Blocks
It turns out you can make bookshelves out of cinder blocks and still have something stylish. I made one in my office and loved how it looked brick against the light wood and plants around it.
Section each shelf with four concrete blocks and two or more wooden pieces laid between them. Use paint or stain to create a personal look on the planks. Since the unit is stable on its own thanks to the heavy blocks, it works well for renters or wherever else a wall mount is not available.
I was inspired by this design concept in Dwell Magazine because it seems so adaptable. Doors can be moved at any time, increased in height with vertical blocks or put outdoors. It’s also a very low-cost way for anyone new to DIY furniture to get started.
You may choose to upgrade the design setting the blocks in matte black, putting sticky lining on the shelves and placing plants, candles and books inside to suit your space.
Use Stencils To Paint A Faux Rug
If you don’t want the expense or upkeep of a textile rug, try making one with stencils. Applying this style to my sunroom’s wood floors made a simple floor into a more striking and impressive area.
Pick a sturdy floor-paint brand and pick out a style that matches the rest of your room— including Moroccan, geometric or floral. Use painter’s tape to mark your rectangle, just like a real rug and stencil and paint it with layers. Keep wear at bay by using a sealant in very busy places.
HGTV introduced me to the idea which they put to use in both children’s playrooms and laundry areas. It’s an excellent choice for people paying rent or who are watching their funds closely but still want to stand out at home.
For more personality, draw a fringe style with stencils at the corners or lay some small rugs across your painting to add texture.
DIY Hanging Herb Garden
Installing a simple DIY hanging herb garden is a perfect way to improve the look and usefulness of your kitchen or balcony. I like to add plants inside simply for their looks, but also because I can pull fresh herbs from them. No matter how much space you have, vertical gardens find a small area to put plants and allow them to thrive all around you.
I chose some wood, jute rope, metal hooks and mason jars for this project. I decided to install the backsplash against a white subway tile tile to make the contrast stand out in the kitchen. Basil, thyme, parsley and rosemary not only thrive inside, but also look nice when planted together. I situated the decorative piece next to a broad kitchen window so the plants are well—lit all day. It may be made even better by swapping ceramic pots for a polished style or reclaimed wood for a rustic feel.
According to my experience, having this herb garden makes making meals much more pleasant. Interior designer Bobby Berk believes plants liven up any space and I completely agree with him. This project appeals to people who both cook and value easy herb storage without using up more room in the kitchen.
If there isn’t much sunlight in your kitchen, you should think about using under-shelf grow lights to support your herbs. You might also consider drawing on your pots with chalkboard paint to name the herbs, creating a decor piece at the same time.
Upcycle Bottles Into Pendant Lights
Varying your lighting can affect the atmosphere of any room and upcycling empty bottles into trendy pendant lights is both good for the environment and for style. It’s great that this style adds an industrial-modern feel to dining areas, breakfast nooks or home bars. It’s a simple DIY idea that looks nicer in your home and helps save resources.
I made my project by using clear bottles, removing the bottoms and putting vintage Edison bulbs inside for a nice glow. There are woven cloth cords that dangle from a piece of rustic wood set into the ceiling above. Thanks to the dimmer switch, you can enjoy the flecks of color in the room with different lighting moods. If you want something dramatic, use green or amber colored bottles for your liquors.
Many of our guests comment on and are surprised by our pendant light fixture. It seems to me that making your own lighting can connect you emotionally with a room, especially if the light tells a story. As Architectural Digest notes, applying custom lighting can change the feeling of any space quickly.
Should I develop this project even more, I’d place three tiers on a kitchen island or breakfast bar. Putting these lights beside dark wood stools or a concrete countertop can turn your room into a well-designed studio.
Create A Family Command Center
It’s important to have a single area that keeps your family organized—this is called a family command center. I designed one for our mudroom wall, and it’s been a game-changer. A DIY home project like this helps you organize your appointments, grocery lists, important notices from school and your keys. Using wallpaper adds interest and orderliness to entryways or hallways.
I made a magnetic chalkboard the center of the wall, surrounded by distressed white wood. On one side, you’ll find a mail sorter having three slots called Incoming, Outgoing and Bills. After that, I set up a slender floating shelf to keep pens and markers in place. Having a cork section makes pinning important notes a breeze and the hooks there are useful for storing backpacks and keys instead of leaving them on the floor. I based the color choice largely on white, black and gray, with only a hint of warm wood.
What makes family life easier is that everyone knows what’s going on. Martha Stewart once pointed out that organizing your home helps create clarity and calmness in messy areas and I’ve experienced that with my own kids. The design is uncomplicated, neat and fully practical.
If you choose to create one, think about including a digital screen to help you sync your calendar or choose a small tablet for use on the wall. For an interesting look all year round, you can add family photos or festive décor to your area.
DIY Bath Tray With Handles
During your rest times, a bath tray with handles gives you luxury and also makes moving things easier. I hoped to find something both elegant and useful and my simple DIY home project really delivered. It looks lovely on the tub and makes a lovely mini spa spot for holding a book, candles, drinks or a plant.
The batteuse I built was carved from a single, stained oak board, measuring about 36 inches and I attached matte black handles for easy holding. I applied a coat of waterproof polyurethane to keep water out of the table top. Special notches on the tray can hold a wine glass as well as your phone or tablet. You don’t need many tools, but the project has a big effect.
Whenever I finish a tiring day, I use it and it gives the bathroom a truly relaxing ambiance. Better Homes & Gardens points out that even simple items such as a bath tray can make your space feel like a luxury hotel. It’s the small changes that help a bathroom feel as relaxing as a retreat.
If you’re looking to personalize it further, you could engrave a quote or your initials into the wood. Having a non-slip bottom or choosing to include a place for a small potted succulent can help your design be more useful and attractive.
With a bit of imagination and work, you can give both your house’s function and style a nice update. Whether you’re looking to stay organized, add charm, or relax in comfort, there’s something here for every home and skill level. Have any of these ideas worked for you or do you have a unique DIY tip? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
