Your home is your refuge, and it’s important to take stock occasionally and consider some affordable but noticeable improvements.

Home improvement projects don’t have to break the bank or take a lot of your time. There are plenty of projects you can handle yourself in just a weekend. Here are 5 suggestions.

No. 1: Freshen Up Your Entry

If the first sight that meets your eyes when you arrive home is a tired front door with zero curb appeal, it’s time to freshen things up. An inviting entrance makes the whole house better, and it’s not hard to create.

It’s often enough to apply fresh paint and hardware to your existing front door. Consider putting your house number on the door in artsy tiles, and adding an attractive, updated light fixture. Depending on the space, you might consider adding some flowers or greenery in an attractive planter, a decorative bench, or a colorful doormat.

No. 2: Update Lighting

Changing out light fixtures is a quick DIY project that instantly improves the look of any room. Create a harmonious feel by selecting fixtures that complement each other and your home’s overall style.

Overhead lighting can be too harsh for most rooms, so make your home comfortable and functional, add a handsome table or floor lamp to a dim corner. If you’re on a really tight budget, try spray-painting some of your existing light fixtures, perhaps using stencils or decals.

No. 3: Modernize the Bathroom

The bath is a great place to look for a quick project, and modernizing this small space can be fast and easy.

Maybe you just need to update the hardware. Put sleek stainless pulls on drawers and cabinets, it’s surprising how new handles make cabinets and drawers look fresh and new. Add a wonderful new showerhead, a floor runner with a striking patern, frosted cling stickers on the corner of your mirror. These tiny improvements add up to big impact. If you feel that a something a bit more dramatic is in order, you’d be amazed at how a beautiful new vanity can be both affordable and easy to install.

No. 4: Replace Kitchen Hardware

The difference is astounding! You can make your kitchen shine by just changing the cabinet and drawer hardware. Cabinetry makes up the bulk of your kitchen space, so this change can really be dramatic. You’ll find hardware in a huge range of styles and price points. Look at your favorite home store, or shop online.

No. 5: Add Storage

As George Carlin famously said, your home is a “place for your stuff.” So this weekend why not create an attractive place for your stuff? Adding shelving is a very doable DIY project that will come in well under most project budgets. You can create your own shelves or buy them ready to hang. Then choose some of your favorite “stuff” to put on  display!

Even small improvements can make your home-sweet-home a little sweeter and give you a satisfying sense of accomplishment. Give yourself the gift of more comfortable surroundings, and enjoy your home more every day.