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5 Easy Afternoon Projects to Refresh Your Home

Do you ever find yourself with a free afternoon and the urge to do something creative at home? Maybe you want to spruce up your space but don’t have the time (or energy) for a big renovation. The good news? Small projects can make a big difference! Here are five simple, fun ideas to refresh your home in just a few hours.

Photo by Scott Webb on Unsplash

Beautiful DIY and home and decor inspiration for your home

A gallery wall is a great way to add personality to any room. You don’t need fancy frames or expensive art—just a mix of photos, prints, and even small decor items.

How to Get Started

  • Gather frames, artwork, or objects you love.
  • Lay them out on the floor first to plan your arrangement.
  • Use removable hooks or adhesive strips for easy hanging.

Pro Tip

Mix different frame styles and sizes for a more interesting look. Black-and-white photos with a pop of color in one frame can make it feel cohesive yet dynamic.

2. Refresh Your Throw Pillows

Switching out throw pillows is one of the easiest ways to update a room. You don’t even need to buy new ones—just change the covers!

Simple Ideas

  • Swap seasonal colors (light pastels for spring, warm tones for fall).
  • Mix textures like linen, velvet, or knit for depth.
  • Try DIY pillow covers with fabric remnants or old scarves.

Bonus: Store extra covers in a basket for quick changes whenever you want a new look.

3. Organize a Small Space

Tackling clutter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Pick one small area—like a junk drawer, entryway table, or bathroom cabinet—and give it a quick refresh.

Quick Steps

  1. Empty the space completely.
  2. Sort items into keep, donate, and toss piles.
  3. Use small bins or trays to keep things neat.

Even 30 minutes of organizing can make your home feel cleaner and more intentional.

4. Paint Something Small

Painting a whole room might be too much for an afternoon, but smaller projects can still pack a punch.

Ideas to Try

  • Paint a wooden stool or side table.
  • Refresh a tired picture frame with a bold color.
  • Add a pop of paint to cabinet knobs or drawer pulls.

Use leftover paint or a sample pot to keep it budget-friendly.

5. Style a Cozy Corner

Every home deserves a little nook for relaxation. Transform an unused corner into a cozy spot with just a few touches.

What You’ll Need

  • A comfy chair or floor cushion.
  • A small side table or stack of books.
  • A soft throw blanket and a candle or small lamp.

This is the perfect place to read, sip tea, or just unwind.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a whole weekend to make your home feel fresh and inviting. With just a little time and creativity, these projects can give your space a whole new vibe. Which one will you try first?

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have a lot of time for home projects?

These ideas are designed to take just a few hours or less! Start with the smallest project (like organizing a drawer) and work your way up.

Do I need special tools for these projects?

Nope! Most can be done with basic supplies like scissors, removable hooks, or a small paintbrush.

How can I make a gallery wall look cohesive?

Stick to a color scheme or theme (like all black-and-white photos or nature prints) to tie everything together.

What’s the easiest way to refresh a room quickly?

Switching out throw pillows or adding a cozy blanket can instantly change the look and feel of a space.

Can I do these projects with kids?

Absolutely! Painting small items or arranging a gallery wall can be fun family activities.