The 5 Best Makeover Ideas from Before and After Projects We Saw in July
July was a busy month for Apartment Therapy readers, who submitted tons of gorgeous before and after projects in every size and scope. From $10 thrifted dresser redos to total kitchen overhauls, this month’s makeovers were seriously impressive — but there were a few practical tips that stood out in the crowd.
Here, five of the best and brightest ideas from July’s before and afters to steal for your own projects, no matter what you’ve got on your to-do list for August.
A 1950s House’s Overgrown Yard Becomes a Dreamy, Functional Patio Retreat
This charming house set in the woods started off looking a little worn out and overgrown — but with a fresh paint job, a lot of landscaping, and a new patio, owners Heather and Nick were able to create a relaxing outdoor space fit for lounging. One genius idea to borrow from this project? Using your house’s siding in your design. Heather and Nick added a breakfast bar and open shelves to the side of their house, making their patio even more functional.
A Bland Brown Kitchen Gets a Bright White Redo — With a Twist
“White kitchen” doesn’t have to mean all-white kitchen. In fact, you can still keep the best parts — the brightness, the clean-looking design — while also adding in some extra personality. This kitchen redo from Chesca is proof: While the cabinets are classic white, Chesca chose gray countertops and a light blue tile for the backsplash to add in a little character. But the best part of this kitchen? The bright yellow fluted wood breakfast bar, which Chesca DIYed herself. This redo’s proof that small details can truly make all the difference.
This $2,000 Living Room Redo Features a Surprising (and Gorgeous) Paint Color
Want to make a big impact for a small amount of money? Pick a bold paint color, and take it all the way to the ceiling, like homeowner Nick did in his Victorian-era living room. Bright pink on the walls and ceiling is statement-making, especially when paired with the room’s original Victorian-era features. This room simply wouldn’t be the same without that big dose of color.
A Glam, Eclectic Redo Makes This Boring Bathroom Unrecognizable
Almost every piece was replaced in homeowner Arianna’s glam, eclectic bathroom redo — except, that is, the vanity. Since it was in solid shape, Arianna didn’t want to scrap it. Instead, she and her husband crafted new doors with a textured wood style and oversized gold pulls, then painted them in fresh periwinkle paint. The project saved money and materials — and the vanity’s completely unrecognizable now.
A $300 Transformation Gives a “Boring” Entryway a Little Oomph
DIY wainscoting is a surefire way to add some texture and character to plain walls. If you want to take your project up a notch, look to homeowner Alissa’s charming entryway redo. To help her entryway feel cohesive, Alissa used the same black on her wainscoting as she did on her front door. Even though the open-concept entryway doesn’t have any walls, the paint technique helps it feel like its own little area.