10 Remodeling Projects to Do Before the Holidays

Tired of all those to-do lists and home improvement projects piling up year after year? Remodeling expert Laurie March shares her must-try projects to get your home guest-ready just in time for the holidays.

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November 24, 2014

By: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Photo By: Brian Patrick Flynn

Project 1: Update a Contractor-Grade Kitchen

The kitchen of this new construction home was reinvented as a high-design masterpiece featuring gray cabinetry, brass hardware and a custom-built island. See the before-and-after kitchen makeover here.

Project 1: Update a Contractor-Grade Kitchen

A standard stainless steel sink was traded in for a sleek apron sink to coordinate with the kitchen's modern makeover.

Project 1: Update a Contractor-Grade Kitchen

The biggest splurge in the kitchen was the storage-packed kitchen island, which is made of welded steel and silvered alder wood, topped with a concrete work surface. See the before-and-after kitchen makeover here.

Project 1: Update a Contractor-Grade Kitchen

A custom serving buffet was designed to provide extra storage, then finished with the same paint used on the existing kitchen cabinets for a cohesive look. See the before-and-after kitchen makeover here.

Project 2: Refinish Cabinets Like a Pro

The contractor-grade cabinets of this Atlanta kitchen were given a high-end update with a sprayed finish and satin brass hardware. Get professional refinishing tips here.

Project 3: Install a Brand-New Backsplash

To add classic pattern and timeless color to this kitchen, 12-by-12-inch sheets of mosaic marble tile featuring a black-and-white basket-weave pattern were installed. Choose the best kitchen backsplash with tips here.

Project 4: Pack Storage and Style Into a Kitchen

In addition to providing extra storage, serving buffets offer designated space to spread out food and drinks for guests. Get stylish, space-saving solutions for your kitchen here.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Project 5: Add Wow Factor to a Breakfast Nook

What was once a neglected spot just off the kitchen is now a classic, casual place to entertain. See the before-and-after makeover here.

Project 6: Pull In a New Stair Runner

Previously covered in dated, contractor-grade carpet, this stairway was transformed with a custom runner made from patterned sisal lined with a two-inch canvas border. Discover the top 10 stair-runner styles here.

Project 7: Flip Your Entry on a Budget

With a budget of $1,500, this entryway was transformed into a warm, welcoming space packed with understated elegance, including a saloon-style gallery wall and fresh paint. See the before-and-after makeover here.

Project 7: Flip Your Entry on a Budget

This 17-foot-tall wall is completely covered with a collection of works of art, from masks and matted artwork to canvas prints and eclectic decor. See the before-and-after makeover here.

Project 8: Install a TV Above the Fireplace

Due to careful planning, design considerations and ample safety measures, a flat-panel TV above this great room's modern mantel is functional and aesthetically pleasing. Learn how to install a TV over your fireplace with these instructions here.

Project 9: Make a Modern, Floating Wood Mantel

Give your fireplace a contemporary update with a do-it-yourself modern mantel made from mitered wood planks. Get the complete step-by-step instructions here.

Project 10: Design a Great Room Around a Holiday Focal Point

Neutral colors, a modern fireplace and a well-organized floor plan bring this great room to life. See the before-and-after makeover here.

Project 10: Design a Great Room Around a Holiday Focal Point

Mix different prints within expansive spaces to create a layered effect. Vary the size and scale of the prints, as well as layer different shades in the same color family. See the before-and-after makeover here.

Project 10: Design a Great Room Around a Holiday Focal Point

End tables are excellent solutions for accommodating lighting and storage. See the before-and-after makeover here.

Project 10: Design a Great Room Around a Holiday Focal Point

A small and unassuming area opposite the great room windows was transformed into a mini design studio where the homeowner can work while engaging with friends or watching TV. See the before-and-after makeover here.

10 Remodeling Projects to Do Before the Holidays

Related To:

Shop This Look

Project 1: Update a Contractor-Grade Kitchen

Project 1: Update a Contractor-Grade Kitchen

Project 1: Update a Contractor-Grade Kitchen

Project 1: Update a Contractor-Grade Kitchen

Project 2: Refinish Cabinets Like a Pro

Project 3: Install a Brand-New Backsplash

Project 4: Pack Storage and Style Into a Kitchen

Project 5: Add Wow Factor to a Breakfast Nook

Project 6: Pull In a New Stair Runner

Project 7: Flip Your Entry on a Budget

Project 7: Flip Your Entry on a Budget

Project 8: Install a TV Above the Fireplace

Project 9: Make a Modern, Floating Wood Mantel

Project 10: Design a Great Room Around a Holiday Focal Point

Project 10: Design a Great Room Around a Holiday Focal Point

Project 10: Design a Great Room Around a Holiday Focal Point

Project 10: Design a Great Room Around a Holiday Focal Point

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