One hour remodeling projects for your stay-cation

Grand Rapids, Mich (WOTV) - You’ve made the decision to stay home this spring break, so you’re probably already working on an activities list for your kids. But what about some fun, inexpensive,remodeling projects to keep you occupied? Here are four projects that should take barely an hour but you’ll feel and see the dramatic changes for years to come!

LIGHT UP YOUR KITCHEN OR BATHROOM: If you love the home improvement shows on TV as much as we do, you’ve certainly noticed the trend of funky, cool, and usually functional lighting for your kitchen or bathroom. Whether a new light fixture is just the start of a remodel (large or small), concentrate on really making a statement.

• A crystal chandelier is sexy and glamorous

• Sleek and slender can be the start of a clutter-free contemporary look

• A polished nickel, traditional fixture will take the attention away from other less desirable finishes remaining in the room.

IF you need a ladder, make sure it’s sturdy. Turn the power off at the breaker box, swap the old fixture for a fabulous new one, turn the power back on and instant beauty!

 SPICE UP YOUR HARDWARE: If you know you’ll keep your existing cabinetry, now is a great time to consider changing out factory-issue pulls and knobs with designs that reflect your personality. All you need is a ruler and screwdriver. Before going shopping, here are some things to consider:

• How many knobs (one screw) and how many pulls (two screws)

• Measure the pulls to avoid having to re-drill

• Cabinet hardware comes in almost every type of finish; copper, chrome, brass, nickel, and bronze, iron, ceramic, and wooden are the most popular.

• If you have a face-frame cabinet where the hinges show, you will either need to pick hardware that matches the current hinges or replace them. This might be a good idea if you are having trouble with cabinet doors sticking or sagging.

• Knobs and pulls come in every style from contemporary to traditional to vintage.

• We love the idea of one distinctly different pull or knob that really makes a statement because it’s totally different than all the others.

Give the cabinets a good scrubbing, remove the old and bring in the fun new hardware! Don’t be surprised if friends ask if you’ve recently replaced your cabinets – that’s how dramatic of a difference hardware can really make!

 RECHARGE AND REORDER: Are you tired of the question, “Mom, where’s my cell phone or charger?” Get creative with drawer space to bring some order and sanity back into your life.

• Choose a drawer that’s accessible for everyone

• Find a divider that fits the drawer and will hold the electronic devices

• Position a power strip at the back of the drawer

• Drill a hole through the back of the drawer to accommodate the cord

• Plug it in and everyone will always be charged up and ready to go!

GIVE YOUR ROOM A COLOR MAKEOVER: While painting even one wall takes more than an hour, you can  Find My Color  in an hour with this handy on-line tool from Better Homes and Garden.

• Determine the mood of the room, then decide whether you want the walls to grab attention or just serve as a backdrop for the rest of the room

• Use the photos they’ve provided – or better yet –

• Download a photo of the room you want to paint

• Try new color schemes by starting with Editor’s Picks

• You can save your room on-line for 12 months - or –

• Print your picture, bring it to the paint store for a color match

• The site will even help you find a painter if you don’t want to do it yourself.

Remember to have fun, be brave and be bold because this is 4 you!  We'd love to see your project!  Share it on our facebook page.