Easy Tricks & Tips to Help You Fake a High-End Renovation
When it comes to home improvements, the outside of the house is often forgotten. However, a well-maintained and attractive outdoor space can majorly boost your home's curb appeal and your enjoyment of it. The good news is that you don't need to break the bank to achieve the high-end look you want.
Contractors and design experts agree that with some creativity and a little elbow grease, you can fake the look of a full outdoor renovation. These budget-friendly tips will help you transform your space without draining your wallet. From simple landscaping tricks to clever painting techniques, we'll show you how to make a big impact with minimal investment.
Don't underestimate the power of landscaping
Start from the ground up (literally), by focusing on your existing landscaping. A well-maintained yard can make a world of difference in the overall appearance of your outdoor space. Begin by trimming overgrown bushes and trees, removing dead branches, and clearing away any debris.
Next, edge your garden beds to create clean, defined lines. This simple step can instantly give your yard a more polished and professional look. Consider adding some colorful annuals or perennials to bare spots in your garden for an instant pop of color and life.
Cover up the ugly parts
Every yard has its share of necessary but unattractive elements, like garbage cans or air conditioning units. Creating small walls or screens can help hide these eyesores and reduce visual clutter. Use materials like lattice, bamboo, or even repurposed pallets to improve the look of your outdoor space.
For a quick fix, try using large potted plants or decorative screens to camouflage unsightly areas. This not only hides the problem but also makes your yard more visually interesting. Remember, out of sight often means out of mind when it comes to outdoor design.
Patch up spots to fake a lush green lawn
A patchy, brown lawn can make even the most beautiful home look neglected. Fortunately, there are quick and easy ways to improve the look of your grass. Start by overseeding bare patches with grass seed that matches your existing lawn. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of topsoil and water regularly.
If you need a quicker fix, try using sod to patch larger bare areas. This instant grass solution can dramatically improve the look of your lawn in just a day or two. Don't forget to fertilize and water your entire lawn to keep it looking lush and green all summer long.
The magic of a fresh coat of paint
Never underestimate the power of paint when it comes to faking an outdoor renovation! Slapping a fresh coat of paint on key fixtures can completely transform the look of your home's exterior. Start with the front door; a bold, eye-catching color creates a welcoming focal point and boost curb appeal.
Don't stop there - consider painting trim, shutters, and even outdoor furniture for a cohesive look. If your budget allows, painting the entire exterior of your home can give it a complete facelift. Remember to choose colors that complement your home's architecture and landscaping.
Create ambiance with strategic outdoor lighting
The right lighting can dramatically change the look and feel of your outdoor space. Start by replacing old, outdated fixtures with modern alternatives. Solar-powered pathway lights are an affordable and eco-friendly option for lighting up walkways and garden beds.
String lights are another budget-friendly way to create ambiance in your outdoor living areas. Hang them along fences, pergolas, or trees to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. You can also add spotlights to highlight architectural features or landscaping elements with a professional touch.
When in doubt, cover with mulch
Adding a fresh layer of mulch to your garden beds is one of the quickest and most effective ways to improve the look of your yard. Not only does it give your landscaping a neat, well-maintained look, but it also helps keep soil moist and stop weeds.
Choose a mulch color that matches your home's exterior and existing landscaping. Dark mulches can make plants pop, while lighter colors can brighten up shady areas. Be sure you’re applying a thick enough layer (about 2-3 inches) to get the most out of your mulch.
Creative solutions for damaged pieces
Sometimes, the best way to makeover your outdoor space is to remove damaged or outdated parts. If you have broken gutters, peeling paint, or cracked concrete that you can't afford to replace right away, look for creative solutions to reduce their impact on your home's appearance.
For example, you’ll want to remove a damaged gutter section instead of leaving it hanging. Cover cracked concrete with an outdoor rug or paint it with concrete stain. The key is to deal with these issues in a way that improves the overall look of your space, even if it's just a temporary fix.
The power of outdoor rugs
Outdoor rugs are a fantastic way to carve out living spaces and cover up imperfections in your outdoor flooring. Whether you have a wooden deck, concrete patio, or even just a grassy area, an outdoor rug can instantly make a space cozier and more inviting.
Look for rugs made from durable, weather-resistant materials that can survive being outside in the elements. Choosing patterns and colors that match the outdoor decor you already have can help tie different elements of your space together.
Surface-level solutions for a worn deck
If your deck is looking worse for wear but you're not ready to commit to a full replacement, try installing surface-level decking tiles. You can place these interlocking tiles directly over old decking or concrete, instantly refreshing the look of your outdoor living space.
Available in a variety of materials and styles, these tiles are a cheap way to give your deck an expensive-looking facelift without the need for major construction. Plus, they're easy to install and remove if you decide to upgrade to a more permanent solution in the future.
Give it a try!
By trying out some or all of these contractor-approved tips you can easily fake the look of a high-end outdoor renovation without breaking the bank. Remember, the key to a successful fake renovation is paying attention to the little details and a cohesive overall design. Focus on making small, impactful changes that work together to transform your space.
With a little creativity and elbow grease, you can make any outdoor area look more beautiful, inviting, and expensive. So roll up your sleeves, grab your paintbrush, and get ready to fake your way to an outdoor makeover this spring!