Home improvement ideas
This page contains info about my Home improvement ideas. Ideas can be added whenever I think of them and researched later. Projects that I decide to pursue can eventually get their own wiki pages.
Ideas to Consider
| Project | Area | Priority | Estimated Cost | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Install under-cabinet lighting | Kitchen | Medium | $300–$700 | Researching |
| Replace living room ceiling light | Living Room | Low | $200–$500 | Idea |
| Install smart thermostat | HVAC | High | $200–$350 | Researching |
| Paint bedroom | Bedroom | Medium | $200–$500 | Planned |
| Add closet organization system | Bedroom | Medium | $500–$1,200 | Idea |
| Install additional electrical outlets | Home Office | High | $400–$800 | Get Estimates |
| Replace bathroom vanity | Bathroom | Low | $800–$1,500 | Idea |
Kitchen
Under-Cabinet Lighting
Idea: Install LED lighting underneath the kitchen cabinets.
Why:
- Improve task lighting over countertops.
- Make kitchen brighter in the evening.
- Add low-level lighting without using overhead lights.
Options to Research:
- Hardwired vs. plug-in
- Warm white vs. adjustable color temperature
- Dimmable lights
- Smart-home integration
Estimated Budget: $300–$700
Status: Researching
Notes:
- Prefer wiring to be hidden.
- Ask electrician whether lights can use the existing wall switch.
- Look at examples before choosing color temperature.
Cabinet Hardware
Replace existing cabinet handles with brushed nickel or matte black hardware.
Estimated Cost: $150–$250
Notes:
- Measure existing hole spacing before purchasing.
- Save one existing handle as a reference.
Living Room
Replace Ceiling Light
Replace the existing ceiling fixture with a more modern fixture.
Budget: $200–$500
Ideas:
- Dimmable LED fixture
- Warm-white light
- Simple contemporary design
Status: Idea
Add Built-In Shelving
Consider installing shelving around the television.
Potential Uses:
- Books
- Photographs
- Travel souvenirs
- Electronics
- Decorative items
Estimated Budget: $1,500–$4,000
Notes:
- Get at least two contractor estimates.
- Consider adding concealed wiring for television and network equipment.
Bedroom
Paint Bedroom
Current Color: Beige
Possible Colors:
- Sherwin-Williams Sea Salt – SW 6204
- Sherwin-Williams Alabaster – SW 7008
- Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray – SW 7015
Finish: Eggshell
Estimated Cost: $200 DIY / $800 professionally painted
Related Page: Paint Inventory
Closet Organization
Replace the basic shelf-and-rod closet with an adjustable organization system.
Desired Features:
- Double hanging rods
- Shoe shelves
- Drawers
- Adjustable shelves
- Storage area for luggage
Estimated Budget: $500–$1,200
Home Office
Additional Electrical Outlets
Install additional outlets behind the desk.
Reason: Reduce the number of extension cords and power strips.
Possible Work:
- Two additional duplex outlets
- USB-C charging outlet
- Ethernet jack
- Concealed cable management
Status: Get Estimates
Improve Video Recording Area
Improve the room for video calls and recording.
Ideas:
- Add area rug to reduce room reflections
- Install curtains
- Improve lighting
- Add acoustic panels
- Add permanent microphone boom arm
- Improve background appearance
Related Page: Home Technology
Energy Efficiency
Smart Thermostat
Potential Benefits:
- Better scheduling
- Remote control
- Energy usage reports
- Automatic temperature adjustments
Products to Research:
- ecobee
- Google Nest
- Honeywell Home
Questions:
- Is existing HVAC wiring compatible?
- Is a C-wire available?
- Does the utility company offer a rebate?
Projects Completed
| Project | Completed | Final Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replace kitchen faucet | March 2025 | $425 | Installed by plumber |
| Install bedroom ceiling fan | June 2025 | $610 | Added wall control |
| Replace hallway light fixtures | September 2025 | $340 | Used LED fixtures |
Contractors
Electrician
Company: Example Electrical Services
Contact: John Smith
Phone: (555) 555-0123
Notes:
- Used previously for bedroom ceiling fan.
- Good experience.
- Ask for estimate for office outlets.
Painter
Company: Example Painting Company
Phone: (555) 555-0187
Notes:
- Recommended by neighbor.
- Have not contacted yet.
Someday / Maybe
Ideas that would be nice but aren't currently priorities:
- Replace interior doors
- Add smart lighting
- Upgrade kitchen countertops
- Install heated bathroom floor
- Replace bedroom carpeting with hardwood
- Add additional kitchen storage
- Improve entryway storage
- Install whole-home water filter