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Top 10 DIY Renovation Projects for Beginners

Not all renovation projects require the hiring of professional contractors. Many DIY projects that beginners can perform still result in a beautiful finish when completed. Completing a DIY renovation project will not only make your home look and feel nicer, but it will also give you a well-deserved boost of confidence and pride.

However, certain projects are better suited for beginners than others. So today, we will be taking a closer look at which DIY projects you can try yourself and which projects might require the skilled hand of a professional in order to ensure a quality result. Enjoy!

Painting the Walls

Simply giving your walls a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the overall aesthetic and atmosphere in the room. Due to the relatively low amount of tools required, it is also one of the more affordable projects, making it a great place to start.

While almost everyone can wield a paintbrush, you would benefit from learning a few techniques in order to get a smooth finish that will stick to the walls for years to come. Depending on the surface, you might need to strip old wallpaper or sand down rough surfaces, so research before applying new paint.

Installing a Backsplash

The backsplash serves a practical function in your kitchen or bathroom by preventing your wall from being exposed to water or stains from other substances. This is another relatively easy project for beginners, and you have many different options in terms of materials and designs.

Updating Cabinet Hardware

Another small project that is quick and easy to do yourself is updating the cabinet hardware in your kitchen or even replacing door knobs around the home. This will instantly transform the cabinets or doors themselves, showcasing them in a new light.

Installing Shelving

As long as you have the right power tool, you should be able to install shelves in just about any type of wall with relative ease. Once you get past the initial worry of making mistakes and actually start drilling, you will become an expert at installing shelving in no time. And remember, most holes can be covered and hidden at a later date.

Laying Vinyl Flooring

Perhaps not the best project for a complete DIY beginner, laying vinyl flooring is a bit more advanced but still perfectly doable if you have the time and courage to try it. The tools required for this are also quite modest, as a few hand tools will typically be enough to lay your new floor fully.

Projects Better Left to Professionals

As we have now covered some of the projects suited for DIY beginners, it is also important to examine the other side of the coin. For instance, any plumbing or electrical work that involves installing new fixtures or components is typically not something you should do yourself, as there are dangers involved, not just in terms of damaging the structure or safety of your home, but also yourself.

The same goes for any structural modifications. While you might think it is easy to knock down that wall dividing your living room and kitchen, it is important to ensure it is not a load-bearing wall and to knock it down in the correct manner to ensure a smooth and safe result.

At The HandyForce, our professional handymen have the skills and experience to handle these complex projects safely and effectively, so if you are looking to get started with more advanced renovation projects, feel free to contact us and learn how we can help you.

#1 – May 2024: Prep Your Home for Summer!

Welcome to our new monthly series! It is dedicated to bringing you useful and practical tips each month that you can use to help maintain and beautify your home. We really hope you find this new series valuable.

With summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to ensure your home is ready for the heat and fun that this season brings. At The HandyForce, we’re excited to help you prepare your home so you can relax and enjoy the sunny days ahead. Here’s a checklist to get your home summer-ready inside and out!

1. AC Maintenance: Stay Cool and Efficient
Before the summer heat peaks, it’s crucial to have your air conditioning system checked and serviced. Regular maintenance not only prevents unexpected breakdowns but also keeps your AC running efficiently, which can save on energy bills.

Tip: Schedule a professional tune-up that includes cleaning or replacing filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical connections. This will ensure your AC operates at peak performance when you need it most.

2. Pest Prevention: Seal Out Summer Bugs
Warm weather invites all kinds of pests, so it’s important to prevent them from becoming uninvited guests. Taking action now can save you discomfort and potentially costly pest control treatments later.

Tip: Inspect your home for any cracks or openings and seal them. Ensure window screens are intact and fix any holes to keep mosquitoes and other insects out. Consider natural deterrents like citronella candles or essential oils.

3. Prep Your Outdoor Spaces: Create Your Summer Sanctuary
Whether it’s barbecues, garden parties, or simply enjoying a quiet evening outside, preparing your outdoor living spaces can enhance your summer enjoyment.

Tip: Clean your patio or deck, arrange comfortable seating, and add some shade with umbrellas or a canopy. Spruce up your garden with new plants and ensure your outdoor lighting is working well for those lovely summer nights.

4. Safety Checks: Keep Your Cool Safely
With all the outdoor activities and home cooling needs, summer is a time to be extra cautious about home safety.

Tip: Check all outdoor electrical outlets and cords for safety. Keep grills and fire pits at a safe distance from flammable materials. Ensure your smoke detectors are working properly as open windows can lead to unexpected hazards.

We at The HandyForce are here to assist with any of these tasks—from AC maintenance to pest-proofing to decking out your outdoor spaces. Just give us a call, and we’ll handle the rest so you can focus on enjoying your summer.

Here’s to a wonderful and relaxed summer!

Have a wonderful May!

-The HandyForce

The Importance of Regular Home Maintenance: A Checklist for Every Season

Regular maintenance is necessary if you want to keep your home in the best shape possible. The effort you put into these seasonal tasks directly affects how expensive repairs will be if things go wrong, cuts down on time needed if things get out of hand, and can even help you protect your property investment better due to better durability and a prolonged lifespan.

Of course, we can do all of this and more with out HomeCare Plan!

Therefore, we have compiled a checklist covering all four seasons so you can get a good overview of some of the most important maintenance tasks to cover year-round. Most of the items on this list can be performed by yourself, or you can hire a professional handyman to relieve you of the burden and stress involved. Enjoy!

Maintenance During Spring

After the darker winter months, many of the maintenance tasks move outside to ensure that the snow and cold have not caused too much damage. Now is also when you will need to consider doing yardwork to keep the grass or weeds from growing too tall and troublesome.

  • Inspect the roof
  • Inspect the exterior siding
  • Clean the gutters
  • Service the HVAC system
  • Maintain your lawn
  • Check for pest infestations
  • Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Check outdoor faucets and irrigation systems
  • Clean windows and screens
  • Check and repair outdoor lighting

Maintenance During Summer

Many of the tasks from spring still apply during the summer, such as moving your lawn or checking for pests. As Canadian families tend to spend more time outside during this time, certain tasks become more important to ensure a safe and inviting environment and keep everything in working order.

  • Inspect and clean outdoor decks and patios
  • Power wash the exterior surfaces
  • Check and repair any cracks in driveways or walkways
  • Prune the trees and shrubs
  • Clean and maintain the outdoor furniture and grill
  • Check and repair window screens
  • Test and service the air conditioning system
  • Inspect and repair the caulking around doors and windows
  • Check for leaks in hoses and sprinkler systems
  • Inspect and repair any damaged fences and gates

Maintenance During Fall

Once the days begin to grow shorter, it is time to prepare for the cold winds and increased rainfall. These tasks will help you maintain a home in good shape and protect against wind and water damage from the seasonal changes in the weather.

  • Rake the leaves and clean the gutters
  • Inspect and clean the fireplace and chimney
  • Seal any gaps and cracks around the doors and windows
  • Drain and prepare outdoor faucets and irrigation systems for winter
  • Inspect and service the heating system
  • Clean and stow away the outdoor furniture and garden tools
  • Check insulation in the attic and crawl spaces
  • Test and replace all batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Check for drafts around the doors and windows
  • Inspect and repair any roof shingles and flashing with signs of damage

Maintenance During Winter

The Canadian winters can be rough, so it is important to properly prepare for the cold times ahead. As you can see, the checklist is focused on preventing cold damage, in particular, to keep your home warm and comfortable.

  • Inspect and clean your snow removal equipment
  • Check and replace worn weatherstripping around doors and windows
  • Check for ice dams on the roof
  • Insulate any pipes in unheated areas
  • Test and service the generator if you have one
  • Clean and maintain your humidifiers
  • Monitor the indoor humidity levels
  • Check for drafts around electrical outlets and switches
  • Check and replace the furnace filters
  • Inspect and clean the dryer vents

Click here to learn more about our HomeCare Plan!

If you find that some of these tasks are becoming too much trouble to keep up with, The HandyForce employs a dedicated, experienced handymen who are always ready to step in and help out. Contact us today to learn more.

How to Create the Perfect Outdoor Living Space

While there is something to be said for a perfectly manicured and plain grass lawn, the same can be said for an outdoor area that has been designed to fit the needs of your entire family, allowing your children to explore the natural world, and provide a comfortable space for your gatherings and relaxing evenings.

In this article, we will look into different ways to make use of your backyard in an attempt to create the perfect outdoor living space, no matter your individual preferences and needs.  From building a cozy fire pit for those cool Canadian evenings to designing a vibrant garden oasis that thrives in our diverse climate, we will cover some of the most popular ideas. Enjoy!

Fire Pit and Cozy Seating

A fire pit is more than just a source of warmth, it is a focal point that brings people together. Imagine cool Canadian evenings illuminated by the flickering flames, creating an inviting atmosphere for friends and family to gather around.

When designing your outdoor space, consider the placement of the fire pit. It should be strategically positioned to maximize warmth while offering a clear view of the surroundings. As for seating you should opt for comfortable, weather-resistant furniture that encourages relaxation and conversation.

Fencing for Privacy and Security

Fences play a significant role in defining the boundaries of your outdoor space while offering a screen to block wind and nosy neighbors. When choosing a fence design, it is important to consider both the aesthetics and functionality, as well as taking the neighboring properties into account.

For a cohesive look, you should select a fence that complements the style of your home and outdoor decor. Popular choices in Canada include wooden fences that add warmth, metal fences for a contemporary touch, or natural materials like bamboo for a tropical vibe. Gates can also be added to the design as welcoming entryways, enhancing the curb appeal of your outdoor living space.

Outdoor Decks

An outdoor deck is a versatile extension of your home that offers endless possibilities for relaxation, entertainment, and connection with nature. Whether attached to your house or built as a standalone platform in your yard, a well-designed deck can become the heart of your outdoor living space.

Begin by envisioning how you want to use the deck. Will it serve as a dining area, a lounge space, or a combination of both? The layout should accommodate your intended activities. If space permits, consider incorporating multiple levels or zones to cater to various functions and increase the visual interest.

Weather Protection and Lighting Solutions:

As our last item on the list, weather protection is vital to ensure your outdoor space remains usable year-round. Pergolas or awnings provide shelter from rain and harsh sun, while still allowing for an open and airy feel. Additionally, consider retractable screens that can be lowered to shield against insects or wind.

To extend the usability of your outdoor space into the evening hours, we recommend that you implement some creative lighting solutions. For instance, string lights can add a touch of magic and create a warm ambiance. And pathway lighting not only adds safety but also guides the way as the sun sets.

Small-Scale Renovations for Increasing Resale Value

Typically homeowners consider large projects when brainstorming ways in which to increase their resale value. But not all renovations require you to add extra livable space or completely overhauling your property. Sometimes, it is the small-scale changes that can make a substantial impact on the perceived value of your home.

Today we will look closer at the art of strategic, small-scale renovations and how they can yield significant returns. From revitalizing key rooms like kitchens and bathrooms to enhancing curb appeal through targeted exterior upgrades, this article will guide you through a range of impactful ideas that are affordable. Enjoy!

The Power of First Impressions

Let us start with the exterior, as this is typically what potential buyers see the first. And in fact, curb appeal can make or break a potential buyer’s first impression of your home. As they say, you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

The exterior of your home sets the tone for what lies within, and small-scale exterior upgrades can play a pivotal role in drawing in prospective buyers whether they see a for sale sign driving by, or browsing realtors online. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, trim, and shutters can instantly rejuvenate the facade of any home.

Landscaping is equally important, as well-maintained flower beds, manicured lawns, and neatly trimmed hedges create an inviting atmosphere. Enhance the entryway with potted plants and a clean welcome mat to make visitors feel at home from the moment they step foot on your property. Finally, old and worn fencing can detract substantially from the visual appeal, and is not that expensive to fix.

Kitchen Revitalization

Almost anyone looking to buy a home will look closely at the kitchen, as it is often considered the heart of the home, and where most Canadian families spend a significant amount of time. While full renovations can be relatively expensive, the good news is that you do not need a complete overhaul to make an impact.

Strategic small-scale renovations to the kitchen can help make it much more appealing. Some of our favorite tips include updating the hardware with modern finishes that are in vogue, replacing outdated cabinet pulls and knobs.

If your budget allows, repainting cabinets and adding new, sleek handles can give your kitchen a fresh, contemporary look. Modern light fixtures, such as pendant lights above an island or under-cabinet LED lighting, not only illuminate the space but also add a touch of sophistication.

Paint and Refresh

Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to transform the look and feel of your home. When painting with resale in mind, neutral and light colors are preferable, as they create a blank canvas that allows buyers to envision their own style and furniture in the space. A neutral palette also makes rooms feel larger and more open.

Consider painting over bold or dated colors that might not align with a wide range of tastes. Beyond walls, you should also pay attention to baseboards, trim, and ceilings to ensure a cohesive and polished appearance.

Return on Investment

Finally, while large-scale renovations can come with hefty price tags, small-scale improvements can offer substantial returns on your investment. The appeal of these small upgrades lies in their ability to make a noticeable difference without breaking the bank.

Another benefit of opting for smaller scale renovations, is that it often times leaves open the option of hiring contractors to help with the actual work. At The HandyForce we would love to hear more about your project, as we are experienced in renovations, whether interior or exterior.

We understand that changing the initial perception can result in higher offers and a faster sale process, ultimately providing a favorable return on the relatively modest investment you have made with your small-scale renovations. Good luck!

🌼 The HandyForce Spring Newsletter! 🌼

🌼The HandyForce Spring Newsletter! 🌼

Spring is finally here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to spruce up your home and prepare for the sunny days ahead. At HandyForce, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain a beautiful and functional living space. Here’s what we have in store for you this season:

Spring Home Maintenance Tips:
Inspect Your Roof: After the harsh winter months, it’s essential to check your roof for any signs of damage or wear. Look out for missing shingles, cracks, or areas of moisture buildup.

Clean Your Gutters and Eavestroughs: With spring showers on the horizon, it’s crucial to ensure your gutters are clear of debris to prevent water damage to your home’s foundation. Regular gutter cleaning can help maintain proper drainage and protect your property from costly repairs.

Check Your Exterior: Take a walk around your home to inspect the exterior for any signs of damage or wear. Look out for cracks in the foundation, peeling paint, or loose siding. Addressing these issues early can prevent further damage down the line.

Service Your HVAC System: As temperatures rise, it’s time to prepare your air conditioning system for the warmer months ahead. Schedule a professional HVAC service to ensure your system is running efficiently and to avoid any unexpected breakdowns.

Refresh Your Outdoor Space: Dust off your patio furniture, clean your outdoor grill, and spruce up your garden beds for a welcoming outdoor oasis. Adding fresh mulch and planting colorful flowers can breathe new life into your outdoor space.

🌼 Special Offer: 🌼
To help you tackle your spring home maintenance checklist, we’re excited to offer an exclusive 20% off Eavestrough Cleaning Services. Don’t let clogged gutters ruin your springtime fun – let The HandyForce take care of the dirty work for you!
Simply mention this promotion when booking your appointment to redeem this special offer. Our skilled technicians will ensure your eavestroughs are clear and ready to handle whatever spring throws their way.
Offer is only valid for Eavestrough Cleaning booked in April 2024.

Contact Us:
Ready to schedule your eavestrough cleaning or have questions about our services? Reach out to us at contact@thehandyforce.com or give us a call at 647-427-RENO (7366). Our dedicated team is here to assist you every step of the way.
Thank you for choosing HandyForce for all your home maintenance needs. Let’s make this spring a season to remember!
Warm regards,
The HandyForce Team

The Benefits of Home Additions for Growing Families

Adding a new expansion to your house will have a wide range of positive influences on your entire family. By expanding your living area, whether it is through extra bedrooms or the addition of a bathroom, Canadian families can reap a host of benefits tailored to their unique lifestyle.

And as the real estate market in Canada continues to evolve, properties with adaptable and functional spaces stand out from the crowd. So today we will delve into the numerous advantages that home additions offer Canadian families. Enjoy!

Increasing Living Space and Comfort

The most obvious benefit is that you get extra rooms for family members to use, resulting in better privacy and an overall improved living experience. Whether you add extra bedrooms so each of your children can have their own, or a home office to use when working from home, you can not only reduce potential conflicts and enhance privacy, but also make life more comfortable.

An extra bathroom is also a great way to alleviate the morning rush, and make regular daily routines smoother. Overall, any increased living area should allow family members to enjoy their activities without feeling cramped or crowded. This newfound comfort can lead to a more harmonious household, making daily life more enjoyable for everyone.

Accommodating Growing Needs

As families grow, their needs evolve as well. From the arrival of a new baby to the teenage years, each stage of life requires different types of spaces. Home additions offer the flexibility to adapt your living environment to meet these changing needs.

A nursery can easily be transformed into a playroom in a few years, and eventually into a study space or extra bedroom for adolescents as they age. The ability to adjust your home to match your family’s growth curve ensures that you avoid outgrowing your living space too quickly, providing stability and continuity for your family.

If you love your home and the location, it can sometimes be the best option to invest in additional space, rather than uprooting your family in search of another house, with all the unknowns that it might bring.

Enhancing Functionality

At the same time, not all home additions are merely to increase the amount of space available. Often times they also need to serve practical functions, especially in our modern times, with more and more people working from home. Adding a home office can facilitate remote work and increase productivity.

If you are spending too much time cleaning up the house after your children’s play dates, then a dedicated playroom can keep toys and games organized, reducing clutter in other parts of the house.

And a guest suite can accommodate visiting family members or friends comfortably, without infringing on anyones existing lifestyle or privacy. Creating specialized spaces for hobbies, fitness, or entertainment adds value to your daily routine and reduces the need to seek such activities outside the home.

Adding Property Value

Home additions are not only beneficial for the immediate needs of your family here and now, but also for the long-term value of your property. As the real estate market in Canada remains competitive, homes with adaptable and functional spaces are highly desirable. And any extra space you are able to add, will also help the overall value by default.

At The HandyForce we understand that a well-executed home addition, that seamlessly integrates with the existing structure, can lead to a significant increase in property value. This investment can pay off when it comes time to sell, potentially providing a higher return on investment compared to the cost of the addition. So contact us today to schedule a talk, where we can discuss your options.

The Best Home Renovations for Small Spaces

When your space is limited, every improvement counts. Small areas can pack a big punch with the right changes. Whether you are dealing with a tiny apartment, or just want to enhance the functionality of your snug rooms, today we will be covering renovation ideas that are tailored to maximize your space and enjoyment.

We will cover different storage solutions to help you declutter, how to approach lighting, provide tips on mirrors and the illusion of space, and many other important tricks to help you make the home feel bright and open. Enjoy!

Strategic Storage Solutions

One of the most effective ways to maximize your smaller living area is through strategic storage solutions. These space-saving ideas not only help you keep your belongings organized, but also ensure that your small space remains clutter-free and functional.

Built-in shelving is a game-changer for small spaces. Consider installing shelves directly into the walls to free up valuable floor space. Whether in the living room, bedroom, or even hallway, built-in shelves provide a stylish way to display items without overwhelming the room.

The area under your bed is another often-underutilized storage opportunity. You can buy cheap plastic containers with wheels that fit under the bed, where you can store excess clothing, bedsheets and other items you do not need every day. This solution is perfect for bedrooms where space is at a premium.

Lighting and Mirrors

Another way to get more out of your space is to choose the right lighting. Try picking lamps that illuminate the entire room when powered, instead of several smaller lamps. You can also opt for whiter light, as opposed to warmer and more yellow, as this will also help brighten your room, making it feel more open and inviting.

If you prefer, then recessed lighting, which is also known as can lights, is another great choice for your small spaces. These lights are installed directly into the ceiling, eliminating the need for bulky fixtures that obstruct the view. Recessed lighting provides even illumination without taking up valuable headroom.

And last but not least, installing hanging mirrors on your walls are a classic trick to visually expand a space. Placing mirrors opposite windows or other light sources reflects natural light and gives the illusion of a larger area. Choose large mirrors with decorative frames that complement your decor.

Choosing Neutral and Light Colors

When it comes to the color of your living area, you should be aware that it can have a powerful impact on how we perceive space. When it comes to small spaces, using neutral and light colors is a proven strategy to make the area feel open, airy, and more spacious than it actually is.

Opt for light-colored paint or wallpaper for your walls. Whites, creams, soft grays, and pastel shades reflect light and create a clean canvas that visually enlarges the room. Consider an accent wall in a slightly darker shade to add depth if you prefer, as this will not overwhelm the space if done right.

The same ideas can be applied to your furniture. Choose neutral-colored fabrics for your bedsheets, and furniture pieces himself in light colors, in order to create a cohesive and visually uncluttered look. Feel free to add smaller objects with brighter colors for a splash of interest, but try to keep larger pieces neutral.

Vertical Space Utilization

As our last tip, you should not overlook the potential for vertical space when you are short on floor space. This principle is all about making the most of the height of your room, effectively doubling your available storage without crowding the area when done right.

Tall bookshelves are not only for books but also for displaying decor and storing essentials. Install tall and narrow bookshelves that reach the ceiling, in order to draw the eye upward.

As for your kitchen and bathroom, high cabinets and storage units provide ample space for storing items you do not need to access every day. This keeps the lower areas free for easy access and day-to-day essentials.

The Importance of Proper Home Ventilation

The air we breath in our homes has a significant impact on our life and health. So good ventilation is like a breath of fresh air for your living space. Ventilation is all about making sure that the air moves around properly. This might not sound exciting, but it is a really important aspect of ensuring your family is safe and sound.

For this article we will be exploring why proper home ventilation is such a big deal. From stopping mold and dampness to keeping the air inside clean, ventilation helps your home stay cozy and safe. So whether you are into saving energy, staying healthy, or just enjoying a nice breeze, understanding why ventilation is key can make a big difference for you and your home.

Preventing Mold and Dampness

Proper home ventilation is one of the primary tools Canadian homeowners have in the battle against mold and dampness. When indoor air becomes trapped and stagnant, especially in spaces like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, excess moisture can accumulate and cause damage to the structures of the home, as well as to the health of the people living there.

Unfortunately it can be difficult to assess whether one has adequate ventilation without professional help. The HandyForce is therefore always ready to hear from homeowners looking for an inspection, or help with installing new and improved ventilation. From installing exhaust fans in moisture-prone areas to ensuring proper airflow, our expertise can help prevent the onset of mold and keep dampness at bay.

Maintaining Indoor Air Quality

Another equally important aspect to consider when talking about ventilation, is indoor air quality. The air we breathe inside our homes can directly affect our health, and not just due to mold and dampness as discussed above.

Without adequate ventilation, indoor pollutants like dust, pet dander, allergens, and even volatile organic compounds from household products can become trapped. Over time, these contaminants can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health concerns.

Therefore, ensuring your ventilation systems are promoting airflow and exchanging stale air for fresh outdoor air, you can help maintain a healthy indoor environment.

Energy Efficiency

The impact of proper ventilation on energy efficiency cannot be underestimated. In the quest for comfort, we often rely on heating and cooling systems to regulate indoor temperatures. But, without adequate ventilation, these efforts can go to waste due to temperature imbalances.

By ensuring a controlled airflow, proper ventilation helps distribute conditioned air evenly throughout your home. This means your heating and cooling systems can work more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.

In order to achieve the best possible energy efficiency, it is important that your entire ventilation system is working correctly. If you are experiencing issues due to leaks or poor airflow, consider contacting our professionals for help.

Types of Ventilation Systems

These days there are two primary types of ventilation systems that dominate the landscape of home improvement in Canada. These are natural and mechanical ventilation systems.

Natural ventilation simply involves opening windows and doors on a regular basis, in order to allow fresh air to flow in and stale air to exit. While effective, this approach might be limited in some situations, particularly during extreme weather conditions.

Mechanical ventilation, on the other hand, involves the use of exhaust fans, air exchange systems, and ventilation units to actively control indoor air quality. These systems provide a consistent flow of fresh air while expelling indoor pollutants.

We at The HandyForce can guide you in selecting the appropriate ventilation system for your home’s unique needs. We possess the knowledge to evaluate your home’s layout and recommend the most suitable solutions, ensuring that your ventilation system performs optimally and serves your comfort and health needs.

Design Strategies for Elevating Home Interiors

There are many different interior design philosophies out there, and most of them are viable options, and just down to personal preference. This is why it may come as a surprise to many people, that there are actually a handful of golden principles that can be used no matter which style you are aiming for, in order to achieve the best with what you got.

In this article we will explore some different strategies for taking your interior design to the next level, and achieving a personalized space that will impress your guests, improve your quality of life, and possibly even raising the value of your home in the process. Enjoy!

Light is Paramount

No matter if you are going for a modern scandinavian look, a rustic french interior or something else, using light to your advantage is important. In case you already have plenty of natural light coming into your home, it is just a case of making sure the furniture does not block it.

Otherwise it might be worth the investment to contract a professional home services company in order to create additional skylights, or increase the size of your windows. This will not only help lighten up the space, making it feel larger, it can also help the resale value of your home.

Choosing Statement Pieces and Furniture

Another important aspect to elevating the design of your home, is to make good use of unique statement pieces, that will make your home stand out while also reflecting your personality.

This could be in the form of abstract art for instance, if you are going for a New York style Loft with exposed brick walls, or classical paintings if you are choosing a more traditional interior in your home.

But you can also mix and match with care. If you have an heirloom piece with sentimental value, you should be able to mix it with your modern black and white design – just experiment until you find the right place for it.

Wall Treatments and Accent Features

This is a trend that has been gaining popularity across Canada in recent times. Whether you choose to try your own hand at selecting and implementing wall treatments for maximum impact, or choosing a professional home service company, this fairly inexpensive addition can add a touch of class and exclusivity to any room.

It is important to choose the right paint colors, textures, wallpapers, and architectural details that align with the design vision, so if you are in doubt, consider using contractors with a keen eye for interior design and experience in the field.

Open Concept Spaces

The last item on our list deals with one of the most sought after features for homebuyers in Canada. Having an open kitchen area is something that most families value these days, as it increases the amount of natural light, makes it easier to communicate and socialize, and thus adds extra value to your home.

For those that are worried about making it too open, it is still possible to make clever use of room dividers, rugs or carpets that designate different areas, or furniture placements that help create distinct zones, while still allowing an open layout.

This strategy tends to be fairly cheap as well, since it typically just requires knocking down a wall or beam, tidying up the mess left behind, and then applying a quick layer of paint or two.