Overlooked Areas to Renovate: Entryways
Your entryway is the first thing visitors see when they walk through the door, yet it’s often overlooked during renovations. An upgraded entryway dramatically improves your home’s overall aesthetic and makes a lasting impression. Simple updates like installing new flooring, upgrading lighting fixtures, or adding custom cabinetry for storage will transform this small space into a welcoming and practical area.
If you have a larger entryway, add a bench with storage underneath, where shoes and other clutter can be tucked away. Install a statement light fixture or replace the front door for an eye-catching upgrade. These changes increase the beauty of your home and improve its functionality.
Laundry Rooms: Make Chores More Enjoyable
Laundry rooms tend to be purely functional, with little attention paid to their design. However, renovating your laundry room will turn it into a more enjoyable and efficient space. Custom cabinets, built-in hampers, or even a folding station make laundry tasks much more manageable. Upgrading appliances to energy-efficient models, improving ventilation, or adding more natural light will also increase the room’s usability and comfort.
Hallways: A Forgotten Opportunity
Hallways are often seen as transition spaces, used only to move from one room to another. However, they offer untapped potential for storage and design enhancements. Add built-in shelving or cabinetry to create functional storage without sacrificing square footage. Painting or installing accent lighting in hallways also makes the space feel more open and inviting.
In homes with wider hallways, you might even create a mini home office or reading nook by incorporating a built-in desk or seating area. By giving your hallways more attention, you’ll turn them from purely functional spaces into attractive and useful areas.
Staircases: A Design Feature in Waiting
Staircases are often treated as purely functional, but they can serve as a striking design element when thoughtfully renovated. Upgrading your staircase adds a sense of elegance and continuity to your home’s design. Replace outdated railings with sleek, modern options, or swap out carpeted steps for hardwood or a statement runner.
For added storage, incorporate pull-out drawers under the stairs or use the space beneath for a cozy reading nook or built-in shelving. Renovating your staircase elevates your home’s overall aesthetic and increases its functionality and character.
Attics: An Unexpected Retreat
Attics are another often-overlooked area that can be transformed into functional living space. While many homeowners use their attic solely for storage, it can be turned into a cozy bedroom, a quiet office, or even a home gym.
Before renovating your attic, make sure it’s properly insulated and that there’s adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. Adding dormer windows will bring in more natural light, making the space feel larger and more inviting.
Renovating overlooked areas will improve your daily living experience. By focusing on spaces that are often neglected, you’ll maximize your renovation budget while increasing your home’s value.
FAQs on Overlooked Areas to Renovate
Is renovating overlooked areas expensive?
Not necessarily. The cost of renovating overlooked spaces like laundry rooms or hallways can be much lower than major renovations like kitchens or bathrooms. By focusing on simple upgrades like new storage solutions, lighting, or paint, you’ll achieve dramatic improvements without a huge investment.
How do I decide which area to renovate first?
Consider how much time you spend in each space and how it currently functions for your needs. If your laundry room feels cramped or your basement is underutilized, those could be ideal places to start. Also, think about the potential return on investment if you’re planning to sell your home in the future.
Will these renovations really add value to my home?
Yes, even smaller renovations in overlooked areas can increase your home’s value. Well-designed entryways, finished basements, and upgraded laundry rooms all add appeal to buyers, making your home more attractive when it comes time to sell.
Can I do these renovations myself?
Many of these renovations can be done as DIY projects, depending on your skill level. Painting, adding shelving, and simple cabinetry installations can often be completed without professional help. However, for more complex tasks like electrical work or large-scale renovations, it’s best to consult a professional.
Low Keys Home Inspections offers home inspections to homebuyers and sellers in the Florida Keys. Contact us to request an appointment.