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
  • News

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 stoked 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 explained.

    What Style Is Your House? The 10 most popular American house styles explained.

    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–if you're buying—to edit the list down to your favorite 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 Essential Baking Tools Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 That Are Nice to Have)

    21 Essential Baking Tools Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 That Are Nice to Have)

    If you're a beginner baker who's just starting out (or a master chef looking to declutter), start with this list of baking tool must-haves. We'll help you set up a baking essentials kit for beginners with 21 pastry tools. For those who already own these handy tools, this list may finally provide the motivation you need to toss that never-been-used soufflé dish. Building your essential baking tools and 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 Arrangement Ideas

    Living Room Furniture Arrangement 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
  • News

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. Renovate, Remodel & Redecorate

Renovate, Remodel & Redecorate

February 19, 2016
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin FB
Family-Friendly Palette
We have the best tips and tricks to turn any space in your home into that comfortable space you've always wanted. Check out our suggestions for home renovations.
Start Slideshow

1 of 10

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Ask for Help

Family-Friendly Palette

If you're not fully comfortable completing a home renovation on your own, don't be afraid to consult a local designer to help you with your bigger tasks. Working with projects that include drywall, countertops and plumbing can intimidate many do-it-yourself entrepreneurs and can also put a big hole in your pocketbook. Be sure to check the background on the designer you choose so you know that you'll get exactly what you want in your remodel.

1 of 10

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 10

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Be Specific

White kitchen countertops

When discussing your remodel with your designer, be sure to tell him exactly what you want. If you're not specific, the designer could end up filling in the gray areas of your design with his own ideas, and you may later regret the decision. Also, keep your designer strictly on your budget. Don't allow him to purchase a more expensive fabric or paint and charge you for it later. If you try to stay within a specific time frame, your costs will stay low, too.

2 of 10

3 of 10

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Serene Scene

Bathroom

Even though most bathrooms are usually the smallest rooms in the house, they shouldn't lack any of the serenity the rest of your house claims. When redoing your bathroom, make sure that you have a professional handyman to help you with the plumbing and electric fixtures to ensure all are installed safely, and you'll know that with a professional helping you, your new fixtures will be up to code.

3 of 10

Advertisement

4 of 10

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Stylish Upgrades

Console sink

Define your style in every room of your house--even in the bathroom. You can add flair to everything from the vanity to the shower and bath towels. And even if you feel like your style isn't modern, that doesn't mean you can't have modern amenities in your bathroom. Hidden features like towel warmers and outlets in vanity drawers can easily update your bathroom, and your designer will know all about the latest features you can add.

4 of 10

5 of 10

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Storage Bonus

kitchen

Kitchen cabinets not only add storage but also act as the focal point of the kitchen. They can add height to a room by contributing floor to ceiling storage and they can also dramatically contrast the colors you've chosen for the room--but in a good way. Don't be afraid to mix and match cabinet finishes with your kitchen island and built-in cupboards. The two can complement each other tremendously.

5 of 10

6 of 10

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Classy Countertops

kitchen

Kitchen countertops come in a variety of colors, shapes, sizes, materials and prices. With so many choices, you must decide first which countertop material fits your budget. After you have decided on a material, choose the color and size of the countertop you'll need. Also be sure you know what kind of maintenance the countertop will need. Is it heat resistant? Does it need special cleaners? Is it porous or will it stain? Understand these questions before purchasing a countertop.

6 of 10

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 10

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Consider the Location

Kitchen

Choosing a flooring material depends largely on the room you decide to renovate. For example, fluffy carpet is probably not the top choice for most designers to install in kitchens. Solid stone tiles are usually not meant for bedrooms. Decide on a flooring style that is practical yet stylish for the space. Wood, tile, and laminate flooring are great choices for kitchens and bathrooms, or you can opt for a more elegant style with stone, pebble, or mosaic flooring and accent with a great rug.

7 of 10

8 of 10

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Personalize It

double vanity bathroom

After you've decided on a type of flooring, add some personality to your choice. Incorporate your color scheme into your flooring by adding little pieces of colored tile into your larger design. Place accent pieces into your wood floor to create a central design. You can also incorporate your tile design down the wall into your shower area to create a river-like illusion.

8 of 10

9 of 10

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

A Fresh Start

Gray + Blue + White Kitchen

If you feel like the room you're redecorating could use a facelift, you might need a new coat of paint. Brighten or darken the space with just a few simple brushstrokes, and painting won't damage your wallet, either. Your designer can always help you choose the right color for the room, or you can choose a color to bring out a particular decorative accent piece.

9 of 10

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 10

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Don't Paint It All

faucet

Painting is a cheap and effective way to redecorate any room, but don't assume that you can paint everything. For example, don't paint bathtubs or sinks. These two fixtures require toxic chemicals to complete the job, so leave this to a professional. Stay away from painting kitchen countertops. Standard paint isn't food safe and won't hold up to heat and moisture. Also, don't paint ceramic tile in wet areas. The water will break down the paint and ruin your paint job.

10 of 10

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 10 Ask for Help
    2 of 10 Be Specific
    3 of 10 Serene Scene
    4 of 10 Stylish Upgrades
    5 of 10 Storage Bonus
    6 of 10 Classy Countertops
    7 of 10 Consider the Location
    8 of 10 Personalize It
    9 of 10 A Fresh Start
    10 of 10 Don't Paint It All

    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

    Renovate, Remodel & Redecorate
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.