Simple home improvements for an inspired makeover.

Simple home improvements for an inspired makeover.

When you think of home improvements, you think of renovation, builders, and a selection of new materials and décor. Yet home improvements need not always be an expensive endeavour. Often all it takes is a keen eye with only a few adjustments to improve the look of your space.

So whether you're looking to sell your home or simply seeking an opportunity to reimagine your living space, why not consider our following cost-effective tips?

A touch of paint.

A straightforward home improvement approach is adding a fresh new paint job. While we recommend using the best quality paint, seasonal colours add an element of rebirth and sophistication. For the warmer seasons, we recommend a splash of beige, greys and a combination of warm colours such as coral, bright blue, sage and olive green.

You may also consider your trims and finishes by adding a touch of light-coloured yet glossy paint to complete the look. Grab a little inspiration from our friend Pinterest and look at what Dulux offers to match these styles.

A kitchen makeover.

Kitchen projects and renovations need not break the bank. Advancement in wood-based décors and home interior design makes installing new cabinetry, countertops and backsplashes quite affordable. Melamine for cabinets and countertops in the latest colours will cost you significantly less than stonework while maintaining the sophisticated aesthetic you're looking for.

If you're thinking of an elementary kitchen makeover over and above a fresh paint job, then consider looking at some of these designs for a burst of inspiration.

New flooring

As time passes, carpets are showing themselves to be more of a relic of a bygone era. The preferred alternative for a modern look remains a selection between hardwood, laminate and vinyl. While hardwood may cost you anywhere from R80 - R200 per square meter, installing it yourself can save you most of the labour costs. 

On the other hand, Laminates last longer, are easier to install and are sustainable. They are also gorgeous and difficult to differentiate from hardwoods because of their embossed grain or hand-scraped finishes. Beyond this, they're usually much less expensive than hardwoods.

Window restorations

Before you start, analyse your windows to understand what needs to be replaced and what needs restoration. If you live in a classic home, then window restoration is probably something you're familiar with. Wooden window sills from simpler times may be restored to add a fresh yet rustic appeal to your home. Other additions, such as vinyl or aluminium windows, will likely need replacing.

Beyond that, choosing the right glass company requires a bit of research. Lastly, if you're investing in new windows, energy efficiency is crucial and can save you on South Africa's ever-rising utility bills.

A light décor & accessory update

Bits and baubles make up the finer things in your home. Sometimes all it takes is an adjustment of the details. Observe your home surroundings. Do your fixtures need an update? Do your staged ornaments match your colour scheme?

When analysing the details, you must know the seven interior design pillars. These include balance, unity, rhythm, emphasis, contrast, scale and proportion, and details and accessories. Sometimes, the simplest subtraction or addition can completely change the overall aesthetic you're going for. 

Contact Hamiltons Property Portfolio for all your buying or selling requirements:
Johannesburg (Head Office): 011 463 0155
Cape Town: 021 418-0328
Garden Route: 044 050 3295
Eastern Cape: 076 927 7787
Or email reception@hamiltons.co.za

Hamilton's Property Portfolio holds a Fidelity Fund Certificate issued by the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority.