Transform Any Space Instantly with These 7 Miniature Paint Ventures
If you're aiming to revamp the atmosphere of a room on a limited budget, nothing can be more transformative than paint. Regardless of the color you opt for, paint sets the overall tone for the room. You might be considering painting only the four walls, but there's a multitude of other areas where paint can make an impressive impact. Here are seven strategic locations in your home that could greatly benefit from a new coat of paint.
Kitchen Cabinets
Swapping out kitchen cabinets can be quite an expensive undertaking. However, applying paint can work wonders for lesser cost. If your cabinets are of high quality and are in good condition, painting them can be relatively easy. Just ensure to remove the hardware and take the doors off the hinges to guarantee a smooth application. While kitchen cabinet painting is a DIY-friendly project, it can be quite extensive, so you might want to seek assistance. And don't forget to prepare, sand, and prime the surface before painting (to avoid these common cabinet-painting pitfalls).
Trim and Moldings
If your trim and moldings share the same color as the walls, you're missing out on a significant design opportunity. If you're aiming for a dramatic effect, opt for a bold color. For instance, black trim against a white wall provides a chic, modern look. Hunter green trim and moldings blend seamlessly with neutral-hued walls. You can even opt for more unconventional choices, such as light pink or blue for a bedroom with traditional styling. The options are endless.
Wood Furniture
Feeling bored with that old college desk or those family hand-me-down dining chairs? Wood furniture can be costly to replace, especially when it's made of solid wood. But a little paint and some spare time are all that's required to revamp the look. Ensure that your furniture is in good condition before painting, and prepare it appropriately (you might need to sand, clean, and prime first). Our comprehensive guide to painting wood furniture will help you avoid any missteps.
Mantels
A fireplace is a beautiful architectural feature, but an outdated or tedious mantel can detract from its charm. If you have a wooden or brick mantel, repainting it can breathe new life into the space. Select a dark hue to contrast the walls and make the mantel stand out, or choose a unique finish for something truly distinctive.
Beams
If your home is older, you might have exposed beams. If the wood doesn't fit your current aesthetic, consider painting it with a few coats of paint. If you don't like your beams, paint them the same color as the walls and ceiling to help them blend in. If you adore this architectural element but don't like the current stain or finish, consider priming and painting them a contrasting color for a striking effect.
Ceilings
When it comes to paint, don't be shy about reaching for the sky and painting your ceiling a different color than the walls. This technique works particularly well in smaller rooms like bedrooms, guest rooms, and powder rooms. You can experiment with color in a playful manner here. In larger spaces, like the dining room, especially those with trays or coffered ceilings, consider a more sophisticated hue for an added ambiance.
Small Bathrooms
If you've ever yearned to explore your home's design possibilities, there isn't a better place to do so than a small bathroom or powder room. While these spaces are often overlooked, they present many intriguing design opportunities. If you're feeling adventurous, introduce a bold color that doesn't quite fit your overall design scheme–this is the perfect spot for it. Best of all, you'll likely need only one can of paint, making this an affordable project.
After transforming your walls with a new coat of paint, consider refreshing your kitchen cabinets to save costs compared to replacement. A simple paint job can significantly enhance their appearance, as long as you properly prepare and prime the surface.
If your trim and moldings blend with the wall color, consider painting them in a bold hue for a striking impact. This design change can greatly enhance the overall look of a room, providing a chic, modern touch or a unique contrast.
