New Start: 21 Ways to Refresh Your Home for 2016

To combat scum buildup in the bath, don’t just ring in the New Year with upgraded shower curtain rings, but a fresh shower curtain, too! Even if they’re not visibly torn or faded, swapping an old curtain for a new one ensures that past mold and mildew don’t creep into future baths.

Related: 9 Ways to Make Your Old Bathroom New Again

If you faked a clean house last year by stashing loose garments, shoes, and toys in the closet, your family may stumble on your not-so-closeted secret of clutter this year. Return abandoned items to a DIY closet organizer and attractive storage bins, or give them the final farewell and donate them to a good cause.

Related: Organize Closets with 11 Things You Already Own

Even though the remains of holiday meals are long gone from the fridge (we hope!), last year’s leftovers are still likely lingering and growing stale in the pantry. Toss out expired canned and boxed goods, pack and donate any unused comestibles, and then wipe food stains and crumbs from the shelves to give your pantry a fresh start!

Related: 14 Instant Fixes for a Total Pantry Makeover

Rearranging home accents is a simple way to remedy furniture faux pas of the past, whether that be not cleaning underneath armchairs or side tables, or leaving your sofa near the window to fade from sun exposure. Additionally, rearranging furniture to suit the way you actually live can cure clutter and make any room look bigger.

Related: The 7 Room Layout Mistakes Almost Everyone Makes

Whether it’s a drab, industrial fan or glaring lights, unwanted ceiling fixtures don’t have to be permanent fixtures in your home. There are plenty of easy DIY electrical projects to help you revamp or replace outdated lights or fans—without a shocking price tag!


Related: 9 Clever Ways to Counteract Low Ceilings

If cord chaos is putting a chokehold on your digital life, camouflage the mess using cord wraps, cable boxes, and multi-device power strips. Once properly corralled, keep track of cords for all of your electronics using bargain, color-coded labels!

Related: Under $50 - 10 Must-Haves for an Organized Desk

When it’s lights out on your old, worn-out lampshade, swap it for a DIY shade that exudes warmth and style. If you'd rather not craft one from scratch, embellish an existing lampshade by spray painting it, wrapping it with yarn or twine, or covering it in beautiful, rustic paper.

Related: 15 Lazy Ways to Make a Big Change in Your Home

Beat the clock on spring cleaning by wiping down your windows and window sills this winter. Use a commercial or homemade cleaner to get rid of gunk and grime, so that even with winter's shorter days and less sunlight, your home will still remain bright.

Related: 10 Cleaning Habits to Blame for Your Messy Home

Keep your spirits bright by repainting your front door in a reinvigorating new shade. Before brushing it in style, clean the door and apply a coat of primer if you’re transitioning from a darker to a lighter shade.

Related: 9 Bright and Bold Colors for Your Front Door

Durable yet elegant, clear canisters and jars are the perfect vessel for storing kitchen essentials. Fill food-safe containers with everything from pantry staples to special-occasion delicacies, and then stack them to minimize clutter and maximize counter space!

Related: 9 Home Organization Secret Weapons

If barren walls have left a gaping hole in your home decor, install floor-to-ceiling shelves to add style and utility to any room. The possibilities are as endless as the shelves, from vertical units to display dishes in the kitchen to a bookcase in the living room for well-read DIYers.

Related: 10 Space-Saving Ideas to Steal from Houseboats

Building a DIY key holder takes only a few minutes and can save hours of time that might otherwise be spent fumbling for lost keys in the morning. Repurposed from an old cork board and fabric scraps, this organizer minimizes the need to rush and ushers you out the door with peace of mind.

Related: 14 Ultrafunctional Ideas to Steal for Your Entryway

From simple wicker baskets for stashing umbrellas or hats, to ultra-modern entryway credenzas, adding storage to the foyer is a space-smart way to utilize an empty area. If your entryway is low on floor space, install floating shelves to boost style and storage.

Related: Start Fresh: 10 Essentials for an Organized Entryway

A lack of decor on the outside of your home doesn't bode well for its curb appeal. Fortunately, you don’t have to be a pro designer to add character to your address. A DIY house number plate—plus a touch of inspiration—is the perfect choice when it comes to dressing up your facade!

Related: Before and After - DIY Facelifts for 8 Home Exteriors

Before you send your mail carrier packing at the sight of your dingy mailbox, upgrade it post-haste! Consider building a DIY mailbox from salvaged auto parts, a bike frame, or a wooden crate for a retro-yet revitalized look that doesn’t break the budget.

Related: You've Got Mail - 11 Inventive DIY Mailboxes

In the dead of winter, even a touch of greenery can revitalize the home while energizing you. Invite the outdoors inside by customizing a planter or constructing a terrarium from items as large as a fish tank or as small as a glass pendant, and filled with vibrant, seasonal plants.

Related: 9 Bright and Colorful Houseplants You Can't Kill

You've probably taken down the Christmas decor, but the magic and charm of the holidays can remain through seasonally appropriate decor. Carefully consider your artwork, lighting, and foliage to create a warm ambiance in winter, or cool appeal in scorching temperatures!

Related: 7 Ways to Transform String Lights from Holiday to Every Day

This year, take time to pamper yourself and your bedroom with luxurious new sheets, bedspreads, and blankets fit for a queen or king (sized) bed. Refreshed bedding is a simple way to begin 2016 well-rested and prepared for what the year brings.

Related: 10 Things Your Bedroom Might Be Missing

Discover and admire beautiful and innovative home architecture, from grand Victorians to quaint cabins and all the styles in between. Take a look at the latest images and inspiration!