A fresh lick of paint on your front door and windows won’t just transform your home’s exterior, but could increase its value by up to 25 per cent, according to a survey by Dulux Weathershield.
“Fixing up any peeling or cracking paint and cleaning windows creates instant ‘kerb appeal’, and sends a positive message that you’re house-proud inside and out, crucial if you’re trying to sell,” advises Dulux Weathershield colour expert, Louise Tod.
“We found people expect to pay 23 per cent more for a freshly-painted home, and 47 per of prospective buyers named a front door in need of renovation as the most off-putting sign when viewing, and not far behind that, weathered window sills.”
Make an entrance
So often filled with clutter and overflow, it’s easy for hallways to give a less-than-best impression.
“If you’re looking to update the look of your home, the hallway is one area where simple changes can have a big impact. Avoid anything other than the essentials in this area, and ideally opt for furniture which doubles as storage, or a narrow console table,” says Richard Burbidge, whose company specialises in stairways, stair parts and mouldings (richardburbidge.com).
“If you’re replacing the stairs – which can make a major impact with minimum disruption – select the most appropriate style for your property, and in a dark hallway, consider glass panels and a slim balustrade to create the illusion of light.”
Fresh focus
Banish a dull view and boost privacy by screening glass with window film, which comes in a range of coloured, cut and printed patterns.
“The beauty of the range of patterns available means there’s something suitable for every taste and every room. It prevents nosy neighbours peering in and blocks out unsightly views. Film is easy to apply, there are online demonstrations, and once applied, it needs no specific aftercare and can be cleaned using simple household cleaning products,” says Micky Calcott, managing director at The Window Film Company.
Furniture facelift
“Injecting individual personality into a room is easily done by painting a piece of furniture in a fashionable neon shade, which instantly makes it a statement,” says Homebase paint buyer, Heather Taylor.
“There’s a real trend for upcycling and giving pieces a new lease of life, and we’ve seen craft paint sales rise by 78 per cent.”
Cupboard update
Displays in glass-fronted dressers are always attractive, and will be even more striking if the cupboard’s interior is wallpapered or painted.
“Paint the back of the cupboard in a rich, deep shade and then use ends of rolls of wallpaper to line shelves. Pretty floral papers will contrast well with plain china,” says Melanie Adams, founder and buyer at Wallpaper Direct.
Handle it right
Decor details count, and new handles, light pulls, furnishing trims and edging are all affordable ways to transform a look.
“Fixtures and fittings really make or break an interior project, and attention to detail is key,” says celebrity property expert Sarah Beeny, who’s created a new handle collection with furniture fitting specialists, Hafele UK.
“I’ve really enjoyed creating a wide range for the collection, particularly the ‘period’ range, using brushed chrome, copper and stainless steel with timeless designs. One of my favourites is the Blake Card Frame Cup Handle, which is brilliant for helping organise a chest of drawers, as each one can hold a individual card detailing contents.”
Lawn magic
If you long for a rolling, green lawn, but are defeated by the weather and wear and tear from children and pets, there is an answer –go faux.
“The popularity of artificial grass has increased significantly over recent years. The product quality is now excellent, and people become frustrated with our erratic weather, which can reduce even the best lawn to a sea of mud,” says Dan Foskett, managing director at Grass Direct.
“There’s a wide range of styles and prices to suit all budgets, so you can opt for a lush lawn, a putting green, or one that’s tough enough to cope with football-mad kids and pets. Artificial lawns have great drainage and, of course, the added bonus – there’s no need to mow!”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here