What are 10 home improvement projects I can do myself?
If you’re a homeowner who enjoys rolling up your sleeves and tackling projects around the house, DIY home improvements can be a fun and rewarding way to add value, function, and style to your space. Whether you’re updating a single room or enhancing curb appeal, the key to a successful project is a little planning and preparation.
The good news? Not every project needs to take weeks or require professional-level skills. With the right tools, materials, and mindset, many upgrades can be completed over a weekend – or even in a single afternoon. Here are 10 home improvement projects that are perfect for motivated DIYers looking to make a big impact with a manageable time commitment.
10 Home Improvement DIY Projects
Most of these home improvement projects can be completed in a week or less.
1. Add Curb Appeal to Your Home Entrance
Your home’s entryway sets the tone for what guests, and potential buyers, can expect inside. A welcoming front entrance not only enhances curb appeal, but also reflects your home’s personality and style. Even small updates can make a big impact.
Start with simple touches like colorful potted plants or seasonal hanging baskets to frame the doorway and add a burst of life. Consider painting your front door in a bold, fresh color to create an eye-catching focal point, and update the door hardware with a modern or classic finish to instantly elevate the look. If your porch feels dim or dated, new outdoor light fixtures can dramatically improve both the ambiance and functionality. Whether you opt for lantern-style sconces or sleek modern lighting, good illumination can highlight architectural details and make your entryway feel more inviting after dark.
2. Update Your Hardware for a Simple Refresh
You don’t need a full remodel to make a noticeable impact in your kitchen, bathroom, or living spaces. Sometimes, the smallest details, like cabinet pulls, drawer handles, and door knobs, can deliver the biggest visual upgrades. Swapping out outdated hardware for modern, stylish pieces is an easy, budget-friendly project that can instantly freshen up the look and feel of your home.
Whether you choose sleek matte black finishes, warm brass tones, or timeless brushed nickel, updated hardware can complement your design style and add polish to any room. It’s also a great way to bring consistency throughout your home without undergoing a full renovation. Best of all, it’s a manageable DIY project that doesn’t require major tools or professional help – just a little planning and a few hours of your weekend.
3. Add Shelves and Storage Space
Creating additional storage isn’t just about reducing clutter – it’s about making your home feel more open, organized, and efficient. One of the easiest and most effective ways to do this is by adding shelving or built-in storage solutions in high-traffic areas. From floating shelves in the living room to a console table with baskets in the entryway, a few smart additions can help keep everyday items within reach without overwhelming your space.
Entryway shelving is especially helpful for managing things like bags, keys, shoes, and mail the moment you walk in the door. Similarly, adding custom shelves in a bathroom, pantry, or laundry room can give you more vertical storage and free up valuable counter space. Whether you’re working with a small nook or an open wall, thoughtful storage upgrades can instantly enhance both the function and style of your home.
4. Install Decorative Light Fixtures
Lighting plays a key role in setting the tone of your home, and swapping out basic fixtures for decorative lighting is a simple way to make a dramatic difference. Whether you’re refreshing a dining area, entryway, or living room, the right light fixture serves as both a functional element and a stylish design statement.
Consider pendant lights, chandeliers, or sconces that complement your existing décor style, whether it’s modern farmhouse, traditional, or contemporary. Vintage or antique-inspired lighting can add charm and character, and can often be found at local antique shops, flea markets, or even online marketplaces like Etsy and eBay. Not only do these fixtures enhance the visual appeal of your space, but they also help define zones within open floor plans and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere throughout your home.
5. Upgrade Your Kitchen or Bathroom with Beadboard
If you’re looking to add charm and character to your kitchen or bathroom without a major renovation, beadboard is a budget-friendly and stylish solution. This classic wall treatment brings a vintage-inspired touch that works beautifully in both traditional and modern farmhouse-style homes. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy cottage feel or simply want to add texture and warmth, beadboard delivers timeless appeal.
It’s easy to find in pre-cut panels at most home improvement stores. Which makes beadboard a favorite among DIYers for its versatility and straightforward installation. You can use it as a backsplash in the kitchen, an accent wall in the bathroom, or even as wainscoting to elevate cabinetry and shelving. With a coat of fresh paint, such as crisp white, soft gray, or muted blue, beadboard instantly brightens the room and creates a clean, finished look that stands the test of time.
6. Install Molding
If you’re looking for a simple project that can dramatically enhance the style of any room, consider installing decorative molding. Whether it’s crown molding, baseboards, or chair rails, this elegant trim instantly adds visual interest and elevates the overall feel of your space. It’s a classic upgrade that brings structure, symmetry, and charm to both traditional and modern interiors.
Molding can be used to create definition between walls and ceilings or to add dimension to plain walls. For maximum impact, consider layering multiple types of molding for a more custom, built-in look. Be sure to choose a molding profile and scale that aligns with your home’s architectural style, such as sleek, simple lines for contemporary spaces or more ornate profiles for historic or craftsman-style homes. With ample planning and precision, installing molding can be a DIY-friendly project that delivers lasting value and aesthetic appeal.
7. Give Your Backyard a Makeover
Transforming your backyard doesn’t have to involve a major renovation. Sometimes, a few thoughtful updates can breathe new life into your outdoor space. Start by clearing away clutter, trimming overgrown plants, and creating a clean canvas. Then, layer in comfort and style with weather-resistant furniture, cozy cushions, and a few statement pieces like a fire pit or pergola to define the space.
You may also consider adding potted plants, container gardens, or flower beds that can instantly add color and charm to your space. Another option is to add string lights or solar lanterns to bring ambiance that extends well into the evening. If you’re ready for a bigger weekend project, consider laying a flagstone or paver patio to create a dedicated area for dining or lounging. With a blend of function, beauty, and a little creativity, your backyard can become an extension of your home, and a place you’ll enjoy all season long.
8. Hang Decorative Wallpaper
Wallpaper has made a major comeback, and today’s options offer far more than the dated patterns of the past. From bold florals to subtle textures and geometric prints, decorative wallpaper can add depth, personality, and visual interest to nearly any space in your home. Whether you’re going for a modern look, a vintage vibe, or a cozy, layered aesthetic, there’s a wallpaper design that fits your style.
If you’re new to wallpaper, consider starting with a statement wall in a bedroom, hallway, or dining area. This allows you to add a pop of pattern without overwhelming the room. Peel-and-stick varieties also make it easier than ever to experiment without the long-term commitment. With a little prep work and attention to detail, wallpaper can completely transform the feel of a space by adding sophistication, charm, or even a playful twist in just a few hours.
9. Make Drawer Space More Efficient
If your countertops or nightstands are constantly cluttered with charging cords and devices, consider turning an ordinary drawer into a discreet charging station. By simply drilling a hole in the back of a desk, dresser, or kitchen drawer and threading a power strip or USB hub inside, you can charge phones, tablets, and smartwatches out of sight – keeping surfaces clear and organized.
This clever upgrade not only improves functionality, but also helps maintain a cleaner, more streamlined look in your home. It’s especially useful in home offices, entryway drop zones, and bedrooms where outlets are limited or visible cords disrupt the design. With just a few tools and some thoughtful planning, you can make the most of your existing drawer space and bring a touch of smart organization to everyday living.
10. Install New Plumbing Fixtures
Upgrading plumbing fixtures is one of the easiest ways to give your kitchen or bathroom a fresh, modern look, without the time or cost of a full renovation. Swapping out dated faucets, shower heads, or sink hardware can instantly elevate the style of your space, while also improving functionality and water efficiency.
If you’re planning a DIY update, be sure to select fixtures that are compatible with your current plumbing configuration. This will help you avoid additional modifications and make installation more straightforward. From sleek matte black finishes to timeless brushed nickel or polished brass, today’s fixtures offer a wide range of styles to match any home aesthetic. With just a few tools and an eye for design, you can make a small upgrade that makes a big impact in your daily routine.
These are some relatively simple DIY projects you can complete in a weekend or even less. Such projects are rewarding whether you’ve lived in your home for a long time or it’s a brand new to you.
How Covenant Homes Can Help
Ready to take your home to the next level? While weekend DIY projects can make a big impact, nothing compares to the experience of designing and building a custom home tailored to your lifestyle. If you’re dreaming of a home that reflects your style, needs, and vision from the ground up, Covenant Homes is here to help.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can bring your dream home to life – with craftsmanship, care, and a commitment to quality that sets us apart.
