21 Stunning Home Makeovers and DIY Projects That Defined Our Year

As the curtains close on yet another vibrant year, it feels almost cliché to utter, “Where did the time go?” Yet, the sentiment rings true, especially when we reflect on the incredible journey of transforming spaces and bringing dreams to life. It’s only now, in the quiet of December, that the true scope of our creative endeavors truly ‘clicks’. From quick refreshes to ambitious overhauls, the past year has been a whirlwind of sawdust, paint, and profound satisfaction. What a happy coincidence that we completed precisely 21 makeovers, DIY projects, and significant refreshes in 2021 – a number that perfectly encapsulates a year of relentless dedication and boundless creativity. Each project, big or small, added a unique chapter to our home story, making every effort worthwhile.

Looking back at these remarkable before-and-after transformations, it’s no wonder we feel utterly spent, grateful for the much-needed respite between Christmas and New Year’s. This year presented its share of unexpected challenges, including a major setback with water damage that could have derailed our plans. However, with perseverance and a clear vision, we managed to navigate these hurdles, ticking off a substantial number of our 2021 home goals set way back in January. These projects aren’t just about aesthetics; they represent thoughtful design, resourceful solutions, and the joy of crafting inviting spaces. We believe that every corner of a home should tell a story, and this year, we wrote 21 beautiful new chapters.

Join us as we take a comprehensive look back at each of these 21 inspiring home makeovers and DIY projects. Prepare to be amazed by the dramatic changes and innovative ideas that truly transformed our spaces, and those of our cherished friends and family. From cozy bedrooms to expansive outdoor retreats, each project showcases dedication, vision, and a passion for creating truly blessed homes.

1. Kristina’s Quick 1-Day Bedroom Makeover: A Tranquil Spa Retreat

Kicking off our year of transformations, we embarked on a mission to create a serene and relaxing oasis for our incredibly deserving friend, Kristina. This project proved that a significant impact can be achieved in a surprisingly short amount of time. In just one day, we reimagined her bedroom, transitioning it from a functional space to a luxurious spa-like retreat. Through strategic color palettes, soft textures, and thoughtful decor placement, the room was imbued with a calming ambiance, providing Kristina with the peaceful sanctuary she truly deserved. This speedy transformation highlights the power of focused design and efficient execution.

2. Olivia’s “Big Girl” Bedroom Refresh: A Boho-Chic Haven

As Olivia celebrated her ninth birthday this past year, it was time for her room to evolve with her. We aimed to create a space that felt a bit more “tween-ish,” reflecting her growing personality and interests while retaining a playful charm. The refresh incorporated boho-chic elements, including stylish textiles, unique decorative pieces, and a more sophisticated color scheme that still felt youthful and vibrant. The result was an undeniably cute and age-appropriate bedroom that Olivia absolutely adores, providing her with a personal retreat that truly feels like her own as she transitions into her pre-teen years.

3. The Carney Family’s Rec Room Renovation: A Multi-Generational Hub

Undoubtedly one of our most ambitious and rewarding projects of the year was the renovation of our neighbors, the Carney family’s, rec room. With nine children ranging from ages 4 to 19, the challenge was immense: designing a functional, durable, and engaging space that catered to such a diverse age group. Our solution involved creating distinct “stations” within the room, each designed for different activities, along with abundant integrated storage to keep clutter at bay. This strategic layout ensured that everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, had a dedicated area to play, study, or relax, making it a true success story in multi-functional family living.

4. Kristina’s 1-Day Patio Spruce Up: An Inviting Outdoor Nook

Our knack for quick, impactful transformations shone again with Kristina’s townhouse patio. As spring blossomed, we set out to create a charming and inviting outdoor space, perfect for enjoying warm weather. This swift makeover involved smart furniture choices, vibrant planters, and strategic lighting, all designed to maximize comfort and appeal in a compact area. The revitalized patio instantly became a delightful extension of her living space, proving that even small outdoor areas can be transformed into beautiful havens for relaxation and entertainment.

5. Our Back Porch Refresh: Elevating Outdoor Comfort

Our back porch has seen numerous evolutions over the years, adapting to changing styles and needs. This past year, however, marked its best phase yet with a comprehensive furniture replacement. The goal was to create a truly comfortable and stylish outdoor living area that could withstand the elements while providing an ideal setting for family gatherings and quiet evenings. The updated furniture not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal but also significantly improved the functionality and comfort of the space, solidifying its role as a favorite spot for relaxation and entertaining.

6. Our Gardening Shed Overhaul: Functional Storage Magic

Even the most utilitarian spaces deserve a touch of magic, and our gardening shed was a testament to this principle. This overhaul was proof that a fresh coat of paint combined with a few strategically placed wall hooks can work wonders in transforming a disorganized area into a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing storage solution. We streamlined gardening tool storage, created designated zones for various supplies, and infused the space with a sense of order and charm. This project emphasizes that organization doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, just smart.

7. Our DIY Bocce Ball Court: Backyard Entertainment Elevated

Given our love for hosting backyard gatherings and outdoor entertaining, adding a DIY bocce ball court was a natural and exciting decision. This project was conceived to enhance our outdoor living experience, providing a dedicated space for friendly competition and leisurely fun. The construction of the court itself was a rewarding process, resulting in a perfectly sized and leveled playing field that instantly became a focal point for our backyard activities. It’s the perfect little addition that encourages outdoor play and creates lasting memories with friends and family.

8. Rachel and Daniel’s Nursery Makeover: A Whimsical Woodland Haven

The arrival of a precious new baby for my sweet cousin Rachel and her husband Daniel provided an irresistible opportunity to dive into a nursery makeover! I eagerly embraced the chance to design a charming woodland-themed nursery for their baby boy. This project was pure joy, from selecting enchanting wallpaper to incorporating adorable animal motifs and creating cozy nooks. The completed nursery is a whimsical and comforting space, perfect for welcoming their little one into the world and fostering sweet dreams and playful moments. Every detail was carefully chosen to create a serene and inspiring environment.

9. Our DIY Pergola Cabana: The Ultimate Poolside Retreat

This project, without a doubt, truly tested our limits and left us feeling the glorious ache of accomplishment (and perhaps a need for a chiropractic adjustment!). Our DIY pergola cabana was a colossal undertaking, but with the invaluable help of my dad and brother, we collaboratively constructed this magnificent poolside sanctuary. The vision was to create a stylish and shaded area next to the pool, perfect for lounging, entertaining, and escaping the summer sun. The final result came together incredibly well, transforming our backyard into a luxurious resort-like escape that we’re immensely proud of. It’s a testament to teamwork and perseverance.

10. Our DIY Modular Outdoor Kitchen: Culinary Convenience in a Day

Imagine building a fully functional outdoor kitchen in just one day – well, we did it! This DIY modular outdoor kitchen project was an exhilarating challenge, designed to bring the convenience of indoor cooking to our patio. The modular design allowed for rapid assembly and customization, resulting in a streamlined and efficient cooking area perfect for al fresco dining and entertaining. We simply cannot wait for the warmer weather to return so we can fully utilize this incredible addition. It’s a game-changer for backyard entertaining, promising countless memorable meals under the open sky.

11. Richard and Ashlee’s Bedroom Makeover: A Welcoming Start for Newlyweds

To celebrate our newlywed friends, Richard and Ashlee, as they moved into their new home, we gifted them a complete bedroom makeover. The goal was to create a harmonious and inviting sanctuary for them to start their married life together. We focused on maximizing comfort and style, selecting a palette that was both serene and sophisticated. Thoughtful furniture arrangements and elegant decor choices transformed the room into a peaceful retreat, demonstrating how a well-designed bedroom can truly enhance a couple’s new beginnings. It was a joy to contribute to their new chapter.

12. Regan’s Toddler Bedroom Glow Up: From Crib to “Big Girl” Dreams

A significant milestone this year was Regan transitioning out of her crib, necessitating a wonderful “big girl” room glow-up. We embraced a charming cottagecore style, incorporating delightful chinoiserie wallpaper and introducing twin beds. This thoughtful design not only provided her with a beautiful and comfortable sleeping space but also anticipated future fun, allowing for sleepovers with her big sister and cousins. The room blossomed into a whimsical and inviting haven, perfectly suited for a growing toddler’s dreams and adventures, blending playful elements with elegant touches for a timeless appeal.

13. Our Paint Storage Closet Spruce Up: Maximizing Garage Efficiency

Sometimes, the most needed makeovers are the ones that bring order to chaos, and our garage paint storage closet was a prime example. This “freebie” yet incredibly essential organizing project utilized leftover paint and scrap wood to construct custom shelving, making our lives significantly easier. What was once a jumbled collection of cans and supplies became a meticulously organized and accessible space. This spruce-up transformed a neglected corner into an efficient command center for all our painting needs, proving that smart organization doesn’t have to break the bank but can profoundly impact daily functionality.

14. Our Hallway Bathroom Refresh: A Touch of Classic Elegance

While perhaps not a full-blown makeover, our hallway bathroom refresh made a significant impact with minimal effort. This project focused on strategic decor swaps to infuse the girls’ bathroom with a more classic and timeless feel. By updating towels, adding sophisticated art, and integrating elegant accessories, we subtly elevated the space. The result was a chic black-and-white aesthetic that felt both fresh and refined, proving that sometimes, small changes can yield dramatic results in transforming the overall ambiance of a room without extensive renovation.

15. Our Classic Modern Dining Room Makeover: A Scenic Transformation

For years, our dining room lacked a cohesive vision, often feeling like an afterthought. This year, we rectified that with an “official” dining room makeover, and the results far exceeded our wildest expectations. The centerpiece of this transformation was the stunning scenic landscape mural wallpaper, which instantly imbued the room with depth, character, and an air of classic modernity. Paired with updated furnishings and lighting, the space now feels incredibly refined and inviting. We are absolutely in love with the dramatic yet elegant impact of the mural, turning this once-overlooked room into a true design statement.

16. Our Home Gym Shed Renovation: A Budget-Friendly Fitness Hub

This shed renovation was a delightful whim that resulted in a much-desired outcome: our very own “official” home gym! Committed to a budget-friendly approach, we undertook numerous DIYs, including stripping out the existing ceiling to expose the rafters and installing faux brick wall paneling for an industrial-chic aesthetic. The transformation of this utilitarian shed into a motivating and functional fitness space was incredible. It proves that with creativity and resourcefulness, you can achieve impressive results and dedicated areas for your passions without excessive spending, making daily workouts more accessible and enjoyable.

17. Our Playroom Refresh: Taming the Tornado of Toys

Over the years, our playroom has bravely endured the “Olivia/Regan tornado,” accumulating clutter and wear and tear. A much-needed overhaul was in order to bring order, functionality, and renewed inspiration to this bustling space. This refresh focused on implementing smart storage solutions, durable and washable furnishings, and a more streamlined aesthetic to withstand the rigors of enthusiastic play. While this year saw significant progress in taming the chaos, we have exciting plans to finalize the remainder of the room in 2022, creating an even more inviting and organized environment for creative play and learning.

18. Our Foyer Makeover: A Bright and Welcoming Entrance

The unfortunate water damage incident presented an unexpected opportunity to completely reimagine our foyer. With the walls stripped down to the studs, we seized the chance to brighten the paint scheme and implement a fresh furniture and lighting “switcheroo.” This unexpected necessity allowed us to transform the entryway into a much more open, airy, and welcoming space. The updated palette and carefully selected pieces now create a lighter, more inviting first impression, blending old-world charm with a refreshed, modern sensibility. It’s a testament to finding beauty and new possibilities even amidst unforeseen challenges.

19. Our En Suite Bathroom Remodel: The Ultimate Sanctuary

If you had asked me in January 2021 if a complete en suite bathroom renovation was on the horizon, I would have dismissed it as a long shot! Yet, despite the considerable mess and upheaval involved, this project became a reality and has undeniably transformed our master bathroom into my absolute favorite room in the entire house. Blending modern amenities with vintage charm, the remodel created a luxurious and functional sanctuary. Every detail, from the tile work to the fixtures, was meticulously chosen to craft a space that feels both elegant and deeply personal. It’s a true haven for relaxation and rejuvenation.

20. Our Living Room Spruce Up: The Arrival of Dream Furniture

Our living room spruce-up was a project of patience and persistence. Back in January 2021, we finally saved up and ordered the sofas and recliners we had always envisioned for this central family space. What followed was a lengthy nine-month “gestation period” (as it seems to be for furniture these days!) before our dream pieces finally arrived. The wait was absolutely worth it, as the new furnishings brought unparalleled comfort, style, and functionality to the living room. We are completely thrilled with the final look and feel, transforming it into a cozy, inviting hub for relaxation and quality time with loved ones.

21. Our Backyard Overhaul: An Expansive Outdoor Transformation

Saving one of the biggest transformations for last, our backyard underwent an extensive overhaul this year, making it a truly remarkable accomplishment. A top priority was replacing the old, dilapidated fence, which instantly elevated the aesthetic and security of the entire property. Beyond that, a multitude of projects came together harmoniously, including landscaping enhancements, defined zones for dining and relaxation, and improved functionality throughout. The collective effort transformed our backyard into a breathtaking outdoor oasis, where every element perfectly complements the others. It’s now a space that perfectly balances beauty and utility, providing endless opportunities for enjoyment and creating an inviting extension of our home.

Whew! Looking back at this extensive list, it’s clear that we might need to extend our hibernation a little longer to fully recover from such a productive year. Despite its inevitable ups and downs, including unforeseen challenges, 2021 was undeniably a good year—a year marked by growth, resilience, and immense creative satisfaction. Each project taught us something new, pushed our boundaries, and ultimately brought us closer to our vision of a perfectly curated home.

As we step into a new year, the inspiration continues to flow. We’ve already begun dreaming up several exciting room makeovers and DIY projects planned for dear friends throughout 2022. But for now, it feels truly wonderful to pause, take a deep breath, and appreciate just how far we’ve come. We’re incredibly thankful for every brushstroke, every hammer swing, and every moment of creativity that made this past year so memorable. Here’s to more transformations, more learning, and more beautiful spaces in the years to come!