10 Home Improvement Projects to Tackle This Winter

The winter days can feel short, cold, and gray, making it all too easy to start feeling the blues. But here’s the thing – there’s a lot you can do at home to make this season warmer, brighter, and a whole lot cozier. Tackling some fun home improvement projects will lift your mood, make your space more inviting, and even give you something to look forward to after a long, chilly day.

Winter Home Improvement

Whether you’re into big projects or just want a quick pick-me-up, there’s a project here for everyone. Let’s dive into some home improvement ideas that’ll leave you feeling cozy, productive, and ready to take on the winter.

1. Add a Splash of Color: Paint a Room or Accent Wall

A fresh coat of paint, whether it’s an entire room or a simple accent wall, can make a big difference. Head down to one of your favorite home improvement stores and take a look at the sea of colors they have in stock. 

For some warmth, try cozy colors like warm yellows, terracotta, or a rich forest green. Cooler colors like soft blues and grays can create a calming effect, perfect for relaxing evenings at home. 

If you’re feeling bold, go with a bright color for an accent wall to inject some energy into the space. Painting doesn’t require more than the paint itself, brushes, rollers, and a bit of time, making it an affordable and transformative project.

2. Build a Backyard Fire Pit: Warm Up and Enjoy the Outdoors

If you’re lucky enough to have a backyard or some outdoor space, a fire pit can be a wintertime game-changer. Building a fire pit can range from a quick, DIY project with affordable materials, to something a bit more elaborate, depending on your preferences and budget. Still, this is one of the best home improvement ideas on the list because what’s better than a cup of hot cocoa beside a fire at night? 

To keep it simple, pick up a fire ring, or some bricks and gravel to create a basic, circular pit. If you’re feeling a little more ambitious, consider a stone or brick structure that’s permanent. Either way, having a fire pit will give you a reason to spend more time outdoors, enjoy the crisp winter air under cozy blankets, and roast a few marshmallows with friends.

3. Set Up a Cozy Reading Nook

Who doesn’t love curling up with a good book on a cold winter day? Creating a cozy reading nook is easy and can quickly become a wintertime retreat. While rebuilding an entire room might require the help of some local home improvement companies, you can aim to simply refinish a small corner of a room in your house. 

Find a comfy chair or even a floor cushion, then layer it with some throw blankets, a soft rug, and a few pillows. Add a small side table for your book and a warm drink, and maybe a lamp for some soft lighting. 

This nook can be set up anywhere you have a little extra space – by a window, in a corner of your living room, or even in a hallway alcove. Best of all, this project doesn’t require any major purchases, just a few items you probably already have!

4. Give Your Kitchen Cabinets a Makeover

Your kitchen gets a lot of use, so why not give it a fresh, new look this winter? Painting or refinishing your cabinets can completely transform the heart of your home, making it feel brighter, newer, and more stylish.

Choose a color that complements your kitchen’s existing style – white or soft gray is great for a clean, modern look, while deeper shades like navy or forest green can add a hint of luxury. With a little paint, some sandpaper – and patience – you can make your cabinets look professionally updated without breaking the bank.

5. Install Under-Cabinet Lighting for a Bright, Modern Touch

Adding lighting beneath your cabinets is a great way to brighten up your kitchen or workspace, especially in the winter when natural light can be in short supply. This can be as simple as sticking on battery-powered LED strips or, if you’re comfortable with a little wiring, you could opt for hardwired LED lights that plug directly into an outlet.

Under-cabinet lighting not only enhances your kitchen’s look, but it’s also practical. You’ll enjoy a well-lit prep area, and the soft glow can double as a nightlight or accent lighting when it’s dark outside. 

6. Try a Peel-and-Stick Backsplash

Here’s another one that doesn’t require home improvement financing. If you want a quick way to update your kitchen or bathroom without committing to a full remodel, peel-and-stick backsplash tiles are a fantastic option. 

They come in a range of colors, patterns, and materials, from classic subway tiles to sleek, modern metallics. They’re easy to apply, affordable, and completely removable – making them a great option if you’re renting or just want a temporary refresh.

A new backsplash can add dimension and style to a room and is perfect for small spaces that need a little pick-me-up. Plus, it’s a project that can be completed in a day!

7. Upgrade Your Bathroom with New Fixtures or Hardware

Giving your bathroom a little refresh can be as simple as swapping out the faucet, towel bars, and cabinet hardware. Modern hardware can make a bathroom look instantly updated and stylish without a lot of cost or hassle.

Opt for warm metallics like brass or copper for a contemporary, on-trend look, or classic brushed nickel for timeless appeal. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, try adding a new mirror or replacing your shower head with a high-pressure or rain-style option to make your bathroom feel like a luxurious spa.

8. Refinish Old Furniture for a New Look

If you’ve got a piece of furniture that’s seen better days, why not give it a makeover? Refinishing old furniture is not only a fun winter project, but also an eco-friendly project that adds a personal touch to your home.

You can sand down an old wood table or dresser and stain it for a rustic, natural look, or try painting it a bold color to brighten up your space. Don’t be afraid to add new hardware or even stencil on some fun patterns for an extra bit of creativity.

9. Create a Gallery Wall for a Personal Touch

Looking for a project that’s low on the budget, but high on impact? Try creating a gallery wall. It’s a great way to display your favorite art, photos, or even inspirational quotes, adding warmth and personality to any space (perhaps even that new reading nook).

All you need are frames, which you can buy new or thrift for a unique, mismatched display. Arrange your frames on the floor first to get the perfect layout. Then, start hanging! A gallery wall can work in a living room, hallway, or even a bedroom, and it’s a fun project you can update as your style evolves.

10. Add Warmth with Area Rugs

An area rug can transform a room in seconds. It adds color, texture, and warmth, which is perfect for the winter season. Layering rugs is a fun trend you can try, especially if you want to add dimension to a space.

For maximum coziness, go with something plush or try a faux fur rug. Rugs are also great for protecting your floors, adding comfort, and tying together different elements in a room. Plus, they’re easy to change out whenever you want a new look.

Cheers to the Chilly Season

There’s so much you can do without researching the best home improvement loans. A little elbow grease and creativity can take you very far. Instead of staying cooped up this winter, think of it as a time to make your home as cozy, colorful, and functional as possible. 

Whether you’re painting, building a fire pit, or simply refreshing some decor, these home improvement projects will help brighten your space – and your spirits – during the chilly season.

The next time you’re cozied into your reading nook, come check out more of our lifestyle articles. We’ve got everything you need to stay informed and live your best life all season long.