With fall in full swing, it’s time for the annual scramble to get your home ready for the holidays in the coming months. Whether you're planning to host intimate gatherings or grand celebrations for the whole crew, now is the perfect time to give your living space a little TLC so you’re not down to the wire. The good news? You don't need a major renovation project to get started. In fact, we're here to share quick and easy home improvement ideas that will make your house holiday-ready in no time!
From reviving your kitchen for those delicious holiday feasts to adding that extra touch of Louisiana charm with upgraded molding and trim, we're here to help you sprinkle a bit of holiday magic into every room. Here are our top recommendations to get started on for an easy, breezy season ahead.
#1: Kitchen Refresh
Your kitchen is the heart of your home during the holidays, and it deserves a little love to ensure it's up to the task. Now, we get it; the holiday season can be a whirlwind of preparations. That’s why we curated a list of doable projects that make a big impact and can be completed in a relatively short amount of time.
Steps for a Quick Kitchen Refresh:
Paint Your Cabinets: A fresh coat of paint on your kitchen cabinets can work wonders. Choose a color that complements your overall theme and space. White can help to brighten up a kitchen that doesn’t get a lot of natural sunlight while a deep, rich color can add the perfect touch of drama.
Upgrade Hardware: Swap out old cabinet knobs and pulls for new ones. This simple change can instantly modernize your kitchen, and depending on the style and quantity, you could spend as little as $30 on the entire project.
Add Under-Cabinet Lighting: Under-cabinet lighting not only brightens your workspace but also adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Small, inexpensive upgrades like this help make your kitchen feel larger and more custom.
Update Backsplash: A stylish backsplash upgrade is a great weekend project that can dramatically transform the look of your kitchen. Opt for a tile or mosaic that comes secured to a backing for a quicker install time.
#2: Upgrade Your Molding & Trim
If you are looking to add some more character to your space or just want to revive its architectural beauty, updating your crown molding and trim can help you strike the right balance of old and new. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right products so you’ll love the finished outcome.
Choosing the Right Molding Styles
The first step is selecting a molding style that complements your home and your personal taste. Acadiana homes often feature a blend of French, Spanish, and Creole influences, so you'll find a variety of molding to choose from ranging from ornate to simple profiles. Just make sure to select an option that pairs nicely with any baseboards or chair rails you may need.
Materials Matter
When upgrading your molding and trim, it's essential to use quality materials that will stand the test of time. At Doug Ashy, we offer a wide range of molding materials, from traditional wood options that are great for staining, to more modern alternatives like MDF that are perfect for painting. Stop in to discuss your needs and we’d be happy to help you shop the best materials for the job.
Installation Tips
Installing molding and trim might seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it can be a manageable DIY project.
Measure and plan carefully.
Use the right tools, including a miter saw for precise cuts.
Secure the molding with adhesive and finish nails.
Fill any gaps or seams with caulk for a seamless finish.
Sand and paint for a polished look.
#3: Give Your Home a Fresh Coat of Paint
Paint has the incredible ability to change the mood and ambiance of a room, making it a perfect project to tackle for the holidays. Whether you want to create a cozy atmosphere, brighten up a space, or emphasize certain features in your home, paint can do it all.
Choosing Your Paint Finish
When selecting paint, the finish matters. You want to avoid using flat paint in your kitchen or bathrooms, as it’s not suitable to hold up against moisture. Eggshell is a common choice for high-traffic areas and easily hides imperfections. A high-gloss finish like satin, however, is great for a kids bedroom thanks to its durability to withstand clean up.
#4: Focus on Lighting
In Louisiana where hospitality reigns supreme, creating the perfect ambiance for your holiday gatherings is a top priority. Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting a warm atmosphere, making it a key element to consider when preparing your home for the holidays.
Here are some ideas to illuminate your home with a soft glow:
String Lights: Hang string lights along your porch, in the living room, or around the dining area for a cozy, twinkling atmosphere.
Candles: Place candles in decorative holders on your tables and mantels to add a sense of intimacy.
Chandeliers and Pendants: Consider updating your existing lighting fixtures for a polished and elevated look.
Lamps and Sconces: Add table lamps or wall sconces to create pockets of soft, inviting light.
Dimmer Switches: Install dimmer switches to have control over the intensity of your lighting, allowing you to adjust it as the evening unfolds.
Creating a Holiday Lighting Plan
To achieve the perfect lighting for your holiday gatherings, it's essential to plan strategically. Consider the flow of your event, the areas where guests will gather, and the overall ambiance you want to create. With a thoughtfully designed lighting plan, your home will shine during this special season.
Lighting Fixtures at Doug Ashy
When it comes to lighting fixtures, Doug Ashy Building Materials offers a wide selection to suit your style and preferences. Whether you're looking for classic chandeliers, contemporary pendant lights, or energy-efficient LED options, we've got you covered.
#5: Enhance Your Outdoor Space
The temperature during the holidays makes outdoor living more tolerable and enticing, so it’s not an area you’ll want to overlook before your guests arrive. After all, the festivities often spill outside, and you'll want your front porch or back patio to be just as inviting as your living room.
Here are some ideas for giving your outdoor area a holiday-ready makeover:
Festive Decorations: Hang wreaths, garlands, and twinkling lights to turn your entryway into a statement piece.
Cozy Seating: Arrange outdoor seating with comfy cushions and throws for a cozy gathering spot to cuddle up.
Fire Pit: If you have the space, consider adding a fire pit for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories.
Planters and Pots: Fill planters and pots with seasonal flowers and greenery to add a touch of color and life.
Outdoor Rugs: Define your outdoor space with an area rug that compliments your holiday decor.
By enhancing your outdoor space, you're not only creating a beautiful backdrop for your holiday gatherings but also setting the stage for lasting memories. Whether it's sipping hot cocoa under the stars or enjoying a glass of wine on the deck, your outdoor area will be a cherished part of your holiday celebrations.
Getting Started With Doug Ashy
It's clear that preparing your home for the holiday season is a labor of love—and we want to make the process as enjoyable as possible for you. Our team of experts is here to offer guidance, share their knowledge, and provide you with the high-quality building materials you need to tackle your updates with ease.
If you’re in Acadiana, Lake Charles, or Covington, visit your nearest Doug Ashy store today to kick your project off ahead of schedule.