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

5 Easy Afternoon Projects to Refresh Your Home

We all have those afternoons where we want to do something productive but don’t want to commit to a big project. That’s where these simple, creative ideas come in! Whether you have an hour or three, these projects will give your home a fresh look without the stress. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and fun!

Beautiful home and decor and DIY inspiration for your home

1. Update Your Throw Pillows

One of the easiest ways to change the vibe of a room is by switching up your throw pillows. You don’t even need to buy new ones—just give them a little makeover!

How to Do It:

  • Swap the covers: If your pillows have removable covers, switch them out for a new pattern or color.
  • DIY pillow covers: Use fabric scraps or old scarves to sew simple envelope-style covers (no zipper needed!).
  • Add texture: Mix and match materials like linen, velvet, or knit for a cozy feel.

This project takes less than an hour and makes a big difference!

A gallery wall doesn’t have to be a huge undertaking. Pick a small space—like a hallway, above a desk, or next to your bed—and create a mini version.

Quick Tips:

  • Use frames you already have or pick up inexpensive ones from a thrift store.
  • Mix photos, postcards, and small prints for variety.
  • Arrange them on the floor first to find a layout you love.

This is a great way to display memories or artwork without overwhelming a space.

3. Organize a Drawer or Shelf

Decluttering doesn’t have to mean tackling your whole house. Start small with one drawer or shelf—it’s satisfying and makes your space feel cleaner.

Steps to Follow:

  1. Empty the drawer or shelf completely.
  2. Sort items into keep, donate, and toss piles.
  3. Use small containers or dividers to keep things neat.

You’ll be amazed at how much better a single organized space can make you feel!

4. Paint Something Small

A fresh coat of paint can transform anything, and you don’t have to paint an entire room. Try one of these quick ideas:

Paint a Picture Frame

Give an old frame a new life with a pop of color. Matte black, soft pink, or even metallic gold can make it look brand new.

Refresh a Side Table

Sand down a small side table and paint it in a bold hue. It’s a small project with big impact!

Just make sure to use quick-drying paint for faster results.

5. Style a Coffee or Console Table

Sometimes, all a space needs is a little styling love. Pick one surface—your coffee table, entryway console, or even your kitchen island—and give it a quick refresh.

Styling Ideas:

  • Add a stack of books with a small plant or candle on top.
  • Use a tray to corral smaller items like remotes or coasters.
  • Incorporate something personal, like a small vase or souvenir.

This takes minutes but makes your home feel more put-together.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a whole weekend or a big budget to make your home feel fresh. These afternoon projects are perfect for when you want to do something creative but don’t have a lot of time. Pick one, put on some music, and enjoy the process!

Which project will you try first? Let me know in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my home look better without spending money?

Try rearranging furniture, styling shelves with items you already own, or making DIY decor like painted frames or pillow covers from fabric scraps.

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

Switching out throw pillows, adding fresh flowers, or styling a coffee table with books and decor can instantly refresh a space.

How do I organize a small space effectively?

Use drawer dividers, stackable bins, or wall-mounted shelves to maximize storage and keep things tidy.

What paint is best for small DIY projects?

Chalk paint or acrylic craft paint works well for small items like frames and requires minimal prep.

How can I make a gallery wall look cohesive?

Stick to a color scheme or theme, and use frames in similar finishes (like all black or all wood tones) for a unified look.