Nicole Daily Blog
Beautiful DIY and home and projects inspiration for your home

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're craving a little change but don't want to commit to a big renovation. I totally get it! That's why I've put together my favorite quick and satisfying afternoon projects that can instantly refresh your space.

Photo by Joonas Sild on Unsplash

Beautiful DIY and home and projects inspiration for your home

Gallery walls are one of my favorite ways to add personality to any room. You don't need fancy art - family photos, postcards, or even kids' drawings work beautifully!

How to do it:

  • Gather frames in different sizes (thrift stores are great for this)
  • Lay them out on the floor first to plan your arrangement
  • Use washi tape to mark the wall before hammering nails
  • Mix in other elements like small shelves or decorative plates

Pro tip:

Keep frames about 2-3 inches apart for a cohesive look. Don't stress about perfection - the charm is in the slightly imperfect arrangement!

2. Update Cabinet Hardware

This is one of those small changes with big impact projects. Swapping out dated knobs and pulls can completely transform your kitchen or bathroom.

What you'll need:

  • New hardware (measure your existing holes first)
  • Screwdriver
  • Measuring tape
  • Optional: wood filler if changing hole positions

Modern brass or matte black finishes can instantly modernize older cabinets. For a budget-friendly option, spray paint your existing hardware!

3. Make Over a Tired Piece of Furniture

That old side table or dresser doesn't need to be replaced - give it new life with a simple makeover.

Easy transformation ideas:

  • Paint it a fresh color (chalk paint is beginner-friendly)
  • Replace the knobs or handles
  • Add decorative contact paper to drawer fronts
  • Sand and stain for a natural wood look

I recently painted an old wooden chair with leftover paint, and it became my new favorite spot to sit with my morning coffee!

4. Organize a Problem Area

Choose one small area that's been bothering you - maybe the junk drawer, under the sink, or that closet that's become a catch-all.

Simple organization solutions:

  • Use drawer dividers for utensils or office supplies
  • Install tension rods under sinks for hanging spray bottles
  • Add baskets or bins to corral similar items
  • Label everything so it stays organized

You'll be amazed at how much better you feel after tackling just one small organizational project!

5. Create a Cozy Reading Nook

Everyone deserves a special spot to relax with a good book. You don't need a whole room - just a corner will do!

Elements of a perfect reading nook:

  • Comfy chair or floor pillows
  • Good lighting (a floor lamp or string lights work great)
  • A small side table for your tea or coffee
  • A soft throw blanket
  • A basket for books or magazines

I created mine in an unused corner by the window, and it's become my happy place. The best part? It took less than an hour to set up!

Final Thoughts

The best home projects don't have to be complicated or expensive. Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest difference in how your space feels. What I love about these afternoon projects is that they're manageable, satisfying, and give you that wonderful "I accomplished something" feeling.

Which project speaks to you? I'd love to hear what you're planning to tackle in your home! Share your before and afters with me on Instagram - it's so inspiring to see what everyone creates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the easiest afternoon project for beginners?

Updating cabinet hardware is the simplest project - just unscrew the old knobs and screw in new ones!

How can I do these projects on a tight budget?

Shop your home first, use leftover paint, and check thrift stores for inexpensive frames or furniture to update.

What if I don't have power tools?

Most of these projects only require basic tools like a screwdriver, hammer, and paint brushes - no power tools needed!

How do I choose colors for my gallery wall frames?

Either go for a cohesive look (all white or black frames) or mix metals and colors for an eclectic vibe - both work beautifully!

What's the quickest project that makes the biggest impact?

Organizing a single problem area like a junk drawer or under the sink gives immediate satisfaction in under an hour.