Top 10 DIY Projects to Make Your New House Feel Like Home
Moving into a new home is a bit like stepping into a blank canvas. It’s exciting, but let’s be honest—it can feel a bit bare at first. The walls may still be the “safe beige” that the previous owners loved, and the rooms might still feel a bit too much like the estate agent’s photos. This is where a few simple DIY projects, using the right tools and materials, can make a world of difference. Here are 10 beginner-friendly ideas that’ll help transform your new house into a home, one small project at a time.
1. Create a Statement with an Accent Wall
An accent wall is one of the easiest ways to add character to a room. With a few tins of paint and some basic painting tools, you can go from bland to bold in a single afternoon. Try a deep green or rich terracotta to add warmth, or even consider timber panelling for a rustic, textured effect. If painting sounds a bit daunting, try peel-and-stick wallpaper, which is ideal for experimenting without commitment. And don’t worry too much about perfection—DIY is as much about the personal touch as it is about the finished result.
Crown Emulsions, Crafted and Elle Decoration at Maxwells DIY
2. DIY Shelving with a Twist
Shelving can add both style and storage, so why not make it a bit more interesting? Pick up some timber planks from the store and build custom shelves that fit your space. Floating shelves can make a room feel intentional and allow you to display your books, plants, and little bits and bobs that tell your story. Pair them with sturdy brackets and your trusty drill, and you’ve got a weekend project that’s both practical and decorative. Plus, shelves are brilliant for showcasing plants if you’re going for that touch of greenery.
3. Upgrade Your Lighting for Ambience
Standard ceiling lights are practical, sure, but they’re not exactly cosy. Swapping out a few light fixtures can completely change a room’s atmosphere. Use adjustable spotlights in workspaces like the kitchen and softer, ambient lighting in places where you want to relax, like the living room or bedroom. You’ll need a basic electrical toolkit (think wire cutters, a screwdriver, and a tester screwdriver for safety), and a bit of patience. Don’t be afraid to get creative with pendant lights, wall sconces, or even a few strategically placed floor lamps.
4. Build a Custom Splashback
A splashback in the kitchen or bathroom is not only practical but also a great way to add style. You can go traditional with tiles or keep it simple with waterproof timber panelling or even stainless steel sheets for a more modern look. This project will require tile adhesive, grout, a trowel, and possibly a tile cutter, but it’s well worth it for a unique, personalised finish. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of looking at a job well done every time you boil the kettle.
5. Plant a Personal Garden
There’s something about a few plants that instantly makes a house feel like home. Start with a couple of potted plants and, when you’re ready, create a small garden area outside. Whether it’s an herb garden by the kitchen window or a few flower beds along the front path, it’s incredibly rewarding to watch your efforts grow. You’ll only need a few basics—like a trowel, spade, and secateurs—to get started, plus a bit of compost for happy plants.
6. Give Your Front Door a Fresh Look
Repainting the front door is a simple but impactful way to make your home feel welcoming from the moment you arrive. Choose a colour that makes you smile every time you walk up—perhaps a cheerful yellow or a classic navy blue. All you need is an exterior-grade paint, a few brushes, and some masking tape to keep things neat. For an added touch, consider updating the door hardware, such as the knocker or letterbox, for a completely refreshed entrance.
7. Upgrade Cabinet Handles and Hardware
A quick way to refresh your kitchen or bathroom is by swapping out those outdated cabinet handles for something a bit more stylish. It’s as easy as unscrewing the old handles and installing new ones, which come in all sorts of styles—from sleek and modern to vintage brass. All you’ll need is a screwdriver, and maybe a bit of wood filler if you’re re-drilling holes. This small change can completely transform the look of your cabinets and make them feel unique to your home.
8. Add Timber Panelling for a Cosy Look
Timber panelling isn’t just for traditional cottages—it can actually look incredibly stylish in modern homes, depending on how you approach it. Using tongue-and-groove panels or timber sheets, you can create a feature wall that adds warmth and texture to any room. All you need is a saw to cut the panels to size, some adhesive, and a spirit level to keep things straight. Once it’s up, a coat of varnish or paint will complete the look. It’s a bit more advanced, but the result is a cosy, inviting space.
Wood cut to size for shelving for Maxwells DIY
9. Create a Relaxing Outdoor Space
Even a small outdoor area can be transformed into a personal retreat. Consider adding timber decking tiles for an easy flooring solution, and bring in a few potted plants, string lights, and some seating. This project doesn’t require much—just a hammer for assembling any seating or planters, and maybe a screwdriver for furniture assembly—but the result is a perfect little corner to relax in. And if you’re feeling ambitious, add a small fire pit or some outdoor cushions for an extra touch of comfort.
10. Add Curtains or Blinds for Privacy and Style
Bare windows can make a space feel stark and unfinished, and curtains or blinds add that warmth and comfort that turns a house into a home. For a bit of drama, hang your curtain rod higher than the window frame; it’ll make the room feel taller. You’ll just need a drill, wall plugs, and screws to secure the brackets. For a natural look, go with timber or bamboo blinds—they add texture without being too heavy.
Make It Your Own
These projects are simple enough for beginners, but they each offer a chance to make your home feel uniquely yours. The best part? With the right tools and materials, you’ll find the process almost as rewarding as the results. So, pick a project that excites you, gather your supplies, and dive in. Before you know it, your house will feel less like “the new place” and more like the home you were always meant to come back to.
