View source for Home improvement ideas

This page contains info about my [[Household|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 ===

{| class="wikitable sortable"
! 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 ===

{| class="wikitable"
! 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