15 easy ways to get that modern house feel

Modern style uses colour sparingly – but the colour chosen to highlight a space is often bright – resulting in a fresh feel that pops against its surroundings. And because the background furniture and walls are neutral, you can change styles with no more than a few accessory switches, making modern-style affordable to boot.

Learn how to choose the right white paint colour.

One of the easiest ways to spot an older home, no matter how many renovations have been done, is yellowed, cracked or otherwise dated light-switch and outlet covers. This is a simple, inexpensive fix and it makes a huge impact in an older house.

Dated cabinet hardware and taps are a great place to start when updating your home. Easy to accomplish on your own, yet bold enough to make a difference. This is a one-weekend project with a big payoff. Look for sleek designs and modern finishes – and if you’re looking for extra gusto, consider painting cabinets and adding a splashback.

Follow these tips for replacing cabinet knobs and handles.

Once the envy of homeowners everywhere, the dreaded popcorn ceiling has outlived its glory days by about 30 or 40 years. Luckily it’s a lot easier to remove than you might think. Check out this article, on how to get rid of a popcorn ceiling, and you can thank us later!

Another DIY fix, replacing old, dated light fixtures with sleek new models is a very effective way to go modern while adding value to your home.

Here’s everything you need to know about lighting.

While carpet is still a great floor covering choice, if it’s dated, in the bathroom or wall-to-wall shag, it’s likely got to go. For a modern look, stick with easy to lay pre-finished flooring, oblong or plank tile.

Beware of the 10 most common flooring installation mistakes.

New paint is an instant face lift. Simply by covering marks, dings and scratches in your walls you’ll make your home look and feel fresh. It will also allow you to cover any dark or dated colours with a light, monochromatic palette that will breathe new life into your home. For the ultimate in modern style, pair light, barely-there colour with natural wood accents.

Here are the painting tips professional painters don’t want you to know.

There are many ways to add high-tech elements into your home, from motion-detecting lights, to built-in charging stations or stereo speakers. Most items can be homeowner installed, and the sky is the limit regarding selection and price for tech-loving homeowners.

Check out these expert home security tips.

If you’re looking to save some money with your home updates, installing a programmable thermostat is the way to go. Programmable thermostats let you set and control the temperature in your home based on your schedule, which prevents energy use when you aren’t home. This can result in as much as a 5 to 20 percent decrease in your home energy bills.

Watch out for 11 ways you’re shortening the life of your air conditioner.

If you’re looking to make a modern statement consider replacing traditional panelled doors with sleek designs, or vertical panes with frosted glass. While you’re at it, upgrade hinges and handles for maximum impact.

Learn how to hang and frame a door.