Skip to content

Top Navigation

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Gardening
  • Home Improvement Ideas
  • Cleaning and Organizing
  • Recipes and Cooking
  • Decorating
  • Holidays
  • Rooms
  • Shopping

Profile Menu

Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Subscribe
Pin

Explore Better Homes & Gardens

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Explore

    Explore

    • The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      Don't let these pesky plants crash your garden party! The first step is to know your enemy. Then you'll know the best way to deal with your weed problem. Read More
    • 6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      A professional organizer offers advice on how to tidy up your home without feeling overwhelmed. Read More
    • 5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      Anti-inflammatory smoothies do exist! Instead of blending in boatloads of sugar and artificial ingredients, try these smoothies for inflammation that are packed with ingredients that may help lower your risk for chronic diseases including cancer, heart disease, depression, and more. Read More
  • Gardening

    Gardening

    See All Gardening
    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    Upcycle old newspapers, junk mail, and other waste paper to make these easy, eco-friendly containers you can use to sprout new plants for your garden.
    • Flowers
    • Houseplants
    • Plant Encyclopedia
    • Garden Pests
    • Trees, Shrubs & Vines
    • Caring for Your Yard
    • Edible Gardening
    • Garden Design
    • Gardening By Region
    • Landscaping
  • Home Improvement Ideas

    Home Improvement Ideas

    See All Home Improvement Ideas
    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular American House Styles

    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular American House Styles

    In a world full of so many different house styles, it can be a little challenging just to narrow down your own home's architectural style, let alone edit the list down to your favorite style or understand the distinctions characteristic to each house style. We'll show you the 10 most popular American house styles, including Cape Cod, French Country, Colonial, Victorian, Tudor, Craftsman, Cottage, Mediterranean, ranch-style, and Contemporary.
    • Home Exteriors
    • DIY Home Electrical Tips & Guides
    • Outdoor Structures
    • Home Remodeling
    • Plumbing Installations & Repairs
    • Remodeling Advice & Planning
    • Flooring
    • Lighting
    • Decks
    • Porches
  • Cleaning and Organizing

    Cleaning and Organizing

    See All Cleaning and Organizing
    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    Cleaning your home doesn't have to be a daunting, time-consuming chore. The key to managing household duties quickly and efficiently is to design an easy-to-follow routine that includes all the most important tasks. Follow these step-by-step instructions for creating a customized whole-home cleaning schedule.
    • House Cleaning
    • Laundry & Linens
    • Cleaning Tips
    • Closet Organization
    • Organization Tips
    • Kitchen Storage Organization
  • Recipes and Cooking

    Recipes and Cooking

    See All Recipes and Cooking
    21 Baking Essentials Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 Nice-to-Haves)

    21 Baking Essentials Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 Nice-to-Haves)

    Whether you're a beginning baker just starting out or a master chef looking to declutter, we'll help you set up a beginner's baking essentials kit with 21 tools. For anyone who already owns these handy baking tools, this list may finally provide the motivation you need to get rid of that soufflé dish you never use. Building your baking equipment inventory starts here.
    • How to Cook
    • Chicken Recipes
    • Desserts & Baking
    • Fish Recipes
    • Beef Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch
    • Dinner Recipes & Meal Ideas
    • Ethnic Food
  • Decorating

    Decorating

    See All Decorating
    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    Designers weigh in on the most popular decorating styles, colors, and materials you can look forward to in the coming year.
    • Choosing Color
    • Expert Decorating Advice
    • Fireplace Design Ideas
    • Do It Yourself Magazine
    • Window Treatments
    • Styles & Decor
    • Interior Painting
    • Home Makeovers
    • Small-Space Decorating
    • Traditional Home
  • Holidays

    Holidays

    See All Holidays
    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    What began as a small movement, has grown into a global holiday dedicated to celebrating the strong women in our communities.
    • Valentine's Day
    • Mother's Day
    • Easter
    • Father's Day
    • Fourth of July/Memorial Day
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • New Year's
    • Juneteenth
    • Hanukkah
  • Rooms

    Rooms

    See All Rooms
    Living Room Furniture Layout Ideas

    Living Room Furniture Layout Ideas

    Get tips for arranging living room furniture in a way that creates a comfortable and welcoming environment and makes the most of your space.
    • Bedroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Bathroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Kitchen Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Living Room Decorating and Design
    • Dining Room
    • Home Office
    • Kid's Rooms
    • Baby Nursery
  • Shopping

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. BHG.com
  2. Home Improvement Ideas
  3. Home Remodeling
  4. Remodeling on a Budget
  5. Easy Ways to Give Your Home Character

Easy Ways to Give Your Home Character

Caitlin Sole headshot
By Caitlin Sole Updated June 19, 2022
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin FB
Deck

With little time and little money, you can add lots of charm all around the house. Here are 19 do-it-yourself projects to consider.

Start Slideshow

1 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Update Lighting

kitchen

Add comfort, convenience, and character with the right lighting. Update the chandelier over the dining room table. Add simple plug-in puck lights under kitchen cabinets and inside closets. Cozy up a dark corner with an accent light. Install mini accent lights above wall art or framed family photos.

1 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Focus on the Foyer

Foyer

Make the foyer useful by clearing out clutter that accumulates around the front door. Include a storage unit to keep mail, car keys, and other essentials in order. If space permits, include a small bistro table and chairs for a cute conversation space.

2 of 20

3 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Frame the Views

Nature's Hue

Dress up your windows with colorful treatments. Hang the draperies higher than the windows to make the ceilings seem higher.

3 of 20

Advertisement

4 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

How to Hang Curtains

Try these handy tips for measuring and hanging window treatments.

4 of 20

5 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Put Unused Space to Work

Dainty Dining Space

Give an awkward area purpose and appeal. Transform a basic bay or boxy window into a reading nook. Or furnish an empty corner of the living room with a game table and storage cabinet.

5 of 20

6 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Be Savvy About Storage

key storage utensil organizer entryway wall
Credit: Jay Wilde

If you have a home that lacks closet space, place pegs and shelves in convenient nooks to provide places to hang, store, and display everyday necessities.

6 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Make Way for Display

rustic hutch with storage

Use open shelving throughout the house to store and display collectibles. In addition to adding storage, the airy shelves can also make a small room feel larger.

7 of 20

8 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Accent with Architectural Details

white kitchen

Bring your basic builder's kitchen to life. Frame windows with wide molding, install cornices on top of cabinets, or add bun feet or carved legs to cabinets for furniture-style accents.

8 of 20

9 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Get a Custom Look for Less

shelf

Embellish or paint plain, purchased brackets and attach them to shelves in any room for a custom look that won't drain your wallet.

9 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Try Wood Underfoot

sun room

A natural wood or bamboo floor will last longer than synthetic materials, and will transform the character of your interior. In addition, it won't trap allergens. Use machine-washable area rugs to warm the space and protect heavy-traffic areas.

10 of 20

11 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Add Old-Fashioned Appeal

Wall decor

Visit a flea market for vintage signs, furniture, and collectibles that will fill your home with friendly charm.

11 of 20

12 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Paint Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen Cabinet Colors

Can't afford to purchase brand-new kitchen cabinets? Fake it by using bright paint to take your cabinets from dull to darling.

 

Learn how to paint kitchen cabinets.

12 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Update Doorknobs

Doorknob

Reinvent your entry or interior doors with antiqued brass, crystal, porcelain, or colored-glass doorknobs.

 

How to Change a Doorknob

13 of 20

14 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Install Beadboard

cottage bathroom

Add dimension and charm to bathroom walls with beadboard. Save money by tackling the project yourself—in a weekend —and using panels, which are virtually identical to authentic beadboard, and they're sold in lightweight 4x8-foot sheets.

 

How to Install Beadedboard

14 of 20

15 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Style the Mantel

Give a boring and bare fireplace mantel warmth and charm by adding family photos, heirlooms, and seasonal decor. See how to create a magazine-worthy mantel with these tips.

15 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Add Decorative Shutters

Living room table

Make your home look good inside and out with decorative indoor shutters. Traditional wood shutters and plantation shutters add rustic appeal. Some even help insulate your cozy spaces.

16 of 20

17 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Claim a Plain Wall

Niche

Transform a blank wall into a storage-and-display showcase by adding stacks of open shelves, or by cutting out drywall to create a recessed niche.

17 of 20

18 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Enhance the Exterior

home exterior

The simple and affordable additions of shutters, window boxes, and planters near the front door make a friendlier facade and provide cheerful color. Hang the window box at a height you can reach easily to care for the plants. Fill it with your favorite blooms.

18 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

19 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Let Your Garden Glow

lantern and planters

Outdoor lights, including floodlights, globes, tier lights, and lanterns, are easy to install and are the perfect way to add warmth and color to your front yard. For a touch of romance, use candlelit lanterns to create soft pools of light along a garden path.

19 of 20

20 of 20

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Dress Up Your Deck

Deck

Make a boxy builder deck look like a custom addition using decorative metal or glass balusters and post caps that double as planters or light fixtures. Add delightful details with colorful plants, pillows, furniture, outdoor rugs, and accessories.

20 of 20

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Caitlin Sole

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 20 Update Lighting
    2 of 20 Focus on the Foyer
    3 of 20 Frame the Views
    4 of 20 How to Hang Curtains
    5 of 20 Put Unused Space to Work
    6 of 20 Be Savvy About Storage
    7 of 20 Make Way for Display
    8 of 20 Accent with Architectural Details
    9 of 20 Get a Custom Look for Less
    10 of 20 Try Wood Underfoot
    11 of 20 Add Old-Fashioned Appeal
    12 of 20 Paint Kitchen Cabinets
    13 of 20 Update Doorknobs
    14 of 20 Install Beadboard
    15 of 20 Style the Mantel
    16 of 20 Add Decorative Shutters
    17 of 20 Claim a Plain Wall
    18 of 20 Enhance the Exterior
    19 of 20 Let Your Garden Glow
    20 of 20 Dress Up Your Deck

    Share & More

    Tweet Email Send Text Message
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Logo Products at Walmart
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Real Estate Real Estate Services
    Better Homes & Gardens

    Magazines & More

    Learn More

    • About Us
    • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
    • Books from Better Homes & Gardens
    • Help
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithBH&G is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Better Homes & Gardens. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.bhg.com

    Sign in

    View image

    Easy Ways to Give Your Home Character
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.