Feb. 4 2025

3 Simple Projects to Brighten and Refresh Your Space

by Rou Leonard

Winter is here, and though the last chill of winter lingers in the Northeast, brighter days are just around the corner. It’s the perfect time to refresh your space, make your home feel like new again, and shake off those winter blues. Why not use this transitional month to tackle a few easy home projects that bring warmth, charm, and even a touch of spring into your home? Here are three simple ways to make your space feel fresh, cozy, and ready for the season ahead. 

 
 

Refresh Your Walls with Paint

Few things transform a room as effortlessly as a fresh coat of paint. Whether you’re making a statement with a bold accent wall or completely reimagining the space with a new hue, paint is your secret weapon. It’s affordable, impactful, and perfect for those longer early-spring evenings when you’re still spending plenty of time indoors.  

What You’ll Need: Paint, painter’s tape, drop cloths, rollers, and brushes. 

Pro Tip: Warm, inviting colors like soft grays, muted yellows, or calming greens can make your home feel cozier during the chilly months. IHR Bright Color Recommendations-1

Our Favorites: 

Peignoir by Farrow & Ball
A dreamy, elegant neutral with subtle warmth


Wales Gray by Benjamin Moore
A versatile shade that works in every room


India Yellow by Farrow & Ball
A rich, golden tone perfect for brightening a space


Honeydew by Sherwin-Williams
Crisp and refreshing, with a touch of spring


Collector's Item by Benjamin Moore
Classic and sophisticated, ideal for kitchens or hallways

 

Pro Tip: Pair your chosen paint color with new throw pillows, curtains, or a cozy rug to tie it all together. 

Imagine curling up with a book in your freshly painted living room or sipping your morning coffee in a revitalized kitchen. With just a few hours of effort, you can transform the way a room feels—no major remodel required! 

 
Refresh Your Cabinet Hardware
 

Are the knobs and pulls in your kitchen or bathroom looking a little tired? Switching out cabinet hardware is an easy DIY upgrade that delivers maximum impact with minimal effort. Sleek, modern hardware can completely change the look and feel of a space, giving it a refreshed and modern vibe without breaking the bank. 

What You'll Need: A screwdriver and your choice of new hardware (easy to find at any home improvement store). 

Pro Tip: For a polished look, match your new hardware to your existing fixtures, like faucets or lighting.  

Our Favorites Brands:

Sekelskifte

Classic Nordic charm with clean lines  

Top Knobs

Contemporary elegance with standout durability 

Rowen & Wren

Perfect for a timeless, artisan feel 

Rejuvenation

A go-to for vintage-inspired and modern designs. 

 
 
 

Think about this as giving your cabinets a “mini makeover.” It’s amazing how a little detail, like brushed brass pulls or matte black knobs, can make your kitchen or bathroom feel practically brand-new.   

Upgrade Your Lighting Fixtures

Say goodbye to outdated fixtures and hello to warm, stylish lighting. Replacing old light fixtures is one of the easiest ways to brighten your home—literally and figuratively. A thoughtfully chosen ceiling light or sconce can create a focal point in a room while improving function and ambiance. 

 
iStock-1490946223
 

What You’ll Need: New light fixtures, a screwdriver, and wire connectors if needed.

Pro Tip: Always turn off the breaker before starting any electrical work. If you’re unsure about wiring, don’t hesitate to call in a professional—it’s worth the peace of mind.  

Our Favorite Picks: 

Visual Comfort

Modern classics for both function and elegance. 

Lumens

 Contemporary pieces with bold designs and artistic flair. 

Design Within Reach

Mid-century staples that feel timeless and chic. 

 
 
 

Whether you choose a simple pendant light to brighten your kitchen island or a dramatic chandelier to anchor your dining room, lighting can shift the entire personality of a space. Plus, as the days get longer, your lighting choices will complement—not compete with—the spring sunshine streaming in. 

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It's the little things that make all the difference!

These small but impactful projects are perfect for March—a month that’s all about renewal and small promises of the season ahead. By refreshing your walls, hardware, and lighting, you’ll infuse your home with charm, warmth, and just the right amount of excitement for what’s next. 

Make a plan, gather your supplies, and enjoy the process of turning your home into an even more inviting haven. Spring is coming, and with these upgrades, your home will greet it in style! 

 
 

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