10 projects to tackle in 2014

We’re at the back end of 2013 now with Christmas getting closer and closer.

The last thing you’ll be thinking about is spending any money on the home with the expense the festive period brings.

So why not start planning for 2014 instead?

There are a number of ways your home can be improved in the New Year, so make sure your ‘to do’ list is up-to-date. Have a look at the 10 projects you should be tackling in 2014:


Bathroom landscapeImage from pinterest

The bathroom

Bathrooms should ooze style and comfort, so if yours is looking a little worse for wear it’s certainly time to consider a revamp. The first step is to decide what you want from the bathroom. Do you also have a family to consider?

This isn’t a project that you’ll be doing again in a hurry so it’s of vital importance to get everything right first time around, including the fittings. One tip would be to avoid what’s fashionable at the moment, because it can quite easily go out of fashion in 12 months’ time.

As such, avoid fittings such as red basins, even if it does look great in the showroom. A word of advice would be to avoid cheap installations too because despite how tempting they may be, they’re cheap for a reason. Always ensure to plan a budget and stick with it.



Kitchen landscapeImage from pinterest

The kitchen

There’s little worse than an outdated kitchen and if yours looks like it’s from the 80s it’s past time to give it a much needed refurbishment. As the hub of your home the kitchen should look fantastic.

But before getting carried away with magazines and showrooms you need to plan a realistic budget. Make sure this budget is in relation to the size of your home as well. Property guru Phil Spencer warns of spending too much or too little on the kitchen because it can have a significant impact to the value of your home.



Exterior painting and decoratingImage from pinterest

Exterior property decorating

The kerb appeal of your home is very important and is detrimental to making a great impression on any visitors and guests. But despite this, many people leaving their property’s exterior to become worn and as such, won’t have the excellent appeal they should.

The exterior of your home is exposed to the elements throughout the year, which is why it’s important to have it repainted once every couple of years. Of course, you’re likely to need scaffolding to scale your home and perhaps you would be best off with a professional to take care of the work because it can be a lot of effort (probably one of the reasons you’ve yet to repaint your home in the first place).



WindowsImage from pinterest

Replacement windows

Just like the paintwork, windows are vital to improving the kerb appeal of your property. Old wooden frames could be worn and rotting, casting a negative impact on the overall look, whereas modern uPVC replacements can instantly boost the appeal.

Your windows are also responsible for much of the heat lost in your home. Inefficient windows can be costing you up to £200 a year, whereby replacing them with new double glazing can help you make quite the saving.

With new windows in place your home will become a lot warmer in the winter, as draughts and cold spots can be successfully eliminated. You can also cut condensation problems and reduce noise pollution too.



House extensionImage from pinterest

Home extensions

Do you need more space in your home? Then there is another option than to relocate, and home extensions are certainly becoming popular in the UK. Because of relaxed planning permission regulations you may not even need to apply to the local council but always check with authorities because starting any developments.

Why would you need an extension? There are a number of reasons to choose an extension, whether you want to create a kitchen/diner, give yourself extra living space or even add a new bedroom. An extension can increase the value of your home quite significantly too.



FlooringImage from pinterest

Floor renovation

Carpet still has a place in the home but over the last decade there have certainly been a lot of homeowners having their carpet ripped out and replaced with wooden flooring. This has changed the character of British homes and the wooden flooring looks brilliant. It is now typically found in the living room, dining room and even hallway.

Of course, where comfort is of importance such as the bedroom, carpet is still preferred. But wooden floors give you durability and resistance that’ll last for years. Try to avoid cheap wooden flooring because it can be prone to splits and always consider an expert to ensure it’s installed correctly without any problems. Taking on the task yourself could cause damage which will inevitably need repairing.



Bedroom ensuiteImage from pinterest

Bedroom ensuite

Have you ever dreamed of having an ensuite for your bedroom? Then make that dream a reality in 2014. Did you know that ensuites are one of the most desired extras for potential home buyers? You can add a lot of value to your home and have the convenience of your own ensuite. Of course, the extra bathroom could be much needed too if you only have one in your home.

If you’re limited for space, then consider just having a shower room. With a little more space you can add a basin and toilet. As with the bathroom, don’t go for something that’s fashionable because that could be dated in as little as 12 months’ time.



A Garden lanscape installation done by ACH Landscapes in HaveringImage from pinterest

Garden redesign

Is your garden looking tired and in desperate need of some TLC? A garden redesign and landscaping can completely change the appeal and make it a welcoming space for you to relax in at evenings and weekends.

The last place you want to be in your spare time is down on your hands and knees digging up old plants, so get some help from professionals in garden landscaping. Consider a patio or decking area to keep you off of the grass when you’re entertaining and have a garden you can admire throughout the year.



Interior paintingImage from pinterest

Interior decorating

When was the last time you decorated? If your walls are starting to look a little worn and tired then it’s time to get out the paintbrushes and spruce up the place. You can take the job one room at a time so it doesn’t have to be a massive project. Keep to a budget you’re happy with and don’t forget extras such as the skirting boards and alcoves.
Even consider replacement interior doors to finish the job.

With interior decorating, neutral colours are often recommended especially if you’re considering selling your home in the future. A feature wall is also popular, so if you’re feeling brave then go with extra colour. Don’t forget to finish the room with furnishings to add more appeal.



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Loft conversion

Do you need extra space in your home? Why extend your property when instead you could make use of some wasted space in your home? So where is this wasted space? In the loft. The good news is a loft conversion won’t need planning permission and you can get cracking right away.

No matter what you want the extra space for, you can make your dream a reality. Typically homeowners look to have bedroom ensuite in the loft as this adds the most value to your home (up to 20% extra), but a home office, playroom or standard bedroom are also popular ideas. Make sure to plan thoroughly and use a company who will complete a fantastic job.

Tom

I have been managing online projects since 1999 and I'm a experienced marketeer, who is well versed in international brand management, online business strategy and developing long term relationships. Through my academic and professional background I am a specialist in generating online loyalty towards brands. My experience has taught me that ultimately business is about relationships and people. For more information see my Google+ page.