8 Simple home updates you can finish in a weekend this summer

No longer in love with your space? It might be time for a quick refresh! A weekend makeover is all it takes to transform a tired, uninspired home into a space you’ll adore once again.  

There are plenty of ways to bring life back into your home in two days, whether switching up your colour palette, adding decor you love or replacing old hardware.  

Here are simple updates you can make to your space over a weekend. 

Paint a room

A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest ways to make a big impact on a small budget. Brighten the space with a cheerful pastel hue or bring an elegant, moody vibe with a dark jewel tone. Paint doesn’t have to stop with your walls, either. Switch up the colour of your doors, cabinets or even your ceiling if you’re feeling creative. If you need inspiration or just want to know what’s in style, check out the 2025's paint colour trends.  

 The best part? At Dulux Paints, CAA Members enjoy 25 per cent off regular-priced paints and earn 3 per cent back in CAA Dollars! 

Get new curtains or a rug

If your home feels off, dark, heavy curtains might be what’s dragging you down. Swap them out for something more transparent, like linen, to let the light in. On the other hand, maybe your gauzy curtains feel flimsy, and a heavier fabric would frame your window with flair. Velvet is a great option for a luxurious curtain fabric that will add intrigue to your decor. If you want to add some personality, consider a patterned curtain that will make the room pop.  

A rug can also elevate your home, brightening dull floors and creating harmony. If you’re working with a large room or an open concept floor plan, a rug will define areas with minimal effort. Consider opting for washable rugs in high-traffic areas for homes with kids and pets. 

Update old hardware

Are your cabinet handles loose or mismatched? Consider swapping them out for something modern, classy, or quirky. Perhaps you want brass handles for a vintage look or stainless steel to make your kitchen sleek. You can also give light switch covers and doorknobs this treatment, creating a cohesive look from functional art.  

Replacing a faucet or showerhead will also make a huge difference in your home. Whether you want spa treatment or just need to get rid of that leak that’s been bothering you, upgrading these fixtures is a swap that will look and feel great. 

Display artwork and accessories

Summer is the perfect time to up your artwork game, with garage sales and outdoor markets providing opportunities for a fresh frame. For best results, match the size and shape of your art to the wall. You might even consider a gallery wall, where you can mix and match prints, photos and paintings with similar themes. If you live in a small space, try a decorative mirror to open things up.  

Accessories can also make a bold statement in your home. Whether it’s a vase for fresh flowers or a sculptural piece to fill a spot on the floor, curated curios will make your home feel intentional and personal.  

Pro tip: CAA Members save an extra five per cent on their total purchase when shopping at Bouclair! 

Add more lighting

If you’re sick of shadows, more lighting is probably the answer. Combine table and floor lamps for a cozy, layered effect. If you prefer overhead lighting, why not swap out a fixture? From intricate chandeliers to retro pendant lights, a new fixture will illuminate the most beautiful parts of your home.  

For those who like to have total control over a room’s brightness, consider installing a dimmer. In a multipurpose room like a kitchen, effortlessly transition between a homework zone where it’s bright enough to read and a date night spot with mood lighting.  

Need an electrician? CAA Members save up to $100 on services booked online or through the Fixvi mobile app. 

Experiment with peel-and-stick solutions

Do you live in a rental or like to switch things up? Peel-and-stick DIYs are all the rage right now, for good reason. Wallpaper can add a unique accent, an adhesive backsplash can make a small kitchen feel more elegant, or a stained glass window film can transform a space into a piece of history. Are the insides of your drawers feeling dingy? Cut some peel-and-stick paper to size and line your cabinets with a pop of colour.  

If you decide to go this route, read product reviews and do your research to ensure you won’t cause damage to your home. When applying, align your patterns and eliminate bubbles for a professional look. 

Add new pillows and blankets

One of the quickest ways to refresh a room is to update your bedding, blankets, and throws. Swapping out these items is an easy way to reflect the season with minimal effort. 

Light fabrics like linen or cotton in summer create a breezy, relaxed atmosphere. Opt for crisp white sheets, pastel throws, and coastal blues or greens. Layer with pillows featuring tropical prints, soft stripes, or cheerful colours for an instant feeling you’re on vacation. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns, colours and textures for extra visual interest! 

Grow an indoor or outdoor garden

If your space feels dull, a little greenery might be the perfect way to revive it. Refresh your outdoor spaces with perennial flowers, which will grow back year after year—no green thumb required. A few blooms will make your backyard inviting for hosting dinners or relaxing with a book. 

If you don’t have a yard, consider getting planter boxes for your balcony or indoor houseplants. Low-maintenance options like a snakeplant or succulent won’t require constant care, so they are great picks if you’re often busy. Don’t forget to swap out the pot after you bring your plant home—choose one that will match your space or make a statement. 

Looking for more ways to refresh your home?  

Visit caaneo.ca/rewards for a full list of retailers offering great savings to help bring your decorating ideas to life.