The prospect of hosting holiday gatherings often acts as a catalyst for home refreshes, as hosts aim to avoid unfinished projects like half-painted kitchens or missing door knobs. While major renovations may not be feasible in the short term, several small upgrades can be completed within a month to elevate the guest experience.
One effective improvement is wallpapering the powder room, which serves as a high-traffic area during holidays. Due to its small size, this project is cost-effective and quick; pre-pasted panels from brands like Spoonflower are available for around $35. Using a durable Performance substrate ensures these last-minute efforts remain intact.
Ensuring guests can sleep in is considered the ultimate luxury, which can be achieved by installing quality window treatments in the guest room. Options such as natural woven or classic Roman shades from Blinds.com are noted to ship before Thanksgiving, providing necessary light control for visitors.
To prevent shoes and coats from cluttering the entryway, homeowners can create a mini mudroom using existing spaces like coat closets. This involves hanging a pegboard for bags, mounting open shelves for boots, and stacking crates to organize miscellaneous outerwear, eliminating tripping hazards and visual clutter.
For family members staying longer than a weekend who may need to work remotely, adding a small desk to the guest bedroom is a practical solution. A floating table top can be installed in a niche, with some vendors on Etsy offering international shipping within five to seven business days.
Adding a stair runner can create a cozy atmosphere for morning descents and is suitable for tight budgets. This DIY project can involve stitching together two IKEA rugs, following comprehensive guides available from designers like Chris and Julia Marcum.
Creating a dedicated coffee bar in the kitchen helps guests serve themselves without disturbing the host. While custom setups are an option for experienced renovators, beginners can start by installing a pull-out drawer for mugs and placing a tray on the counter to organize add-ins.
Finally, transforming a dull basement into a gathering space can be achieved by painting the ceiling in sunset hues. Designers suggest combining soft peach and sunbaked orange paint colors, such as Benjamin Moore's Chamois and Masada, to create an inviting atmosphere for movie marathons.
Sources: Domino.