Summer is winding down, and before we know it, the holiday season will be here. That means cozy gatherings, hosting family dinners, and welcoming friends into your home. If you’ve been thinking about making improvements, now is the ideal time to act. Tackling renovation projects before the holidays ensures your home is not only beautiful, but also functional, comfortable, and ready for the busiest season of the year.
At Pacific Coast Renovations, we’ve seen firsthand how small upgrades—or even larger remodels—can completely transform a home. Here are some of the top projects homeowners should consider completing before the end of the year.
1. Kitchen Upgrades for Holiday Hosting
The kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the holidays. It’s where meals are prepared, cookies are baked, and loved ones gather to snack, laugh, and share stories. If your kitchen feels outdated or cramped, holiday hosting can feel more stressful than joyful.
Projects to consider:
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Countertops & Backsplash – Upgrading to quartz, granite, or even butcher block can instantly modernize your kitchen while adding durability for heavy use. A new backsplash—whether sleek subway tile or a patterned mosaic—creates a focal point that elevates the entire room.
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Cabinet Updates – If replacing cabinetry isn’t in the budget, refinishing, painting, or simply upgrading the hardware can give your kitchen a fresh new look.
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Lighting – Task lighting under cabinets, pendant lights above an island, or recessed ceiling fixtures can make cooking and entertaining easier while enhancing the atmosphere.
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Added Prep Space – If you have room, adding an island or peninsula creates more counter space and storage, which is a lifesaver when preparing big holiday meals.
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Appliance Upgrades – Energy-efficient ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers not only improve functionality but also reduce energy costs.
By completing these upgrades before the holidays, you’ll have a kitchen that works as hard as you do—and looks stunning while doing it.
2. Bathroom Refreshes for Guests
When guests visit during the holidays, your bathrooms are guaranteed to see more traffic than usual. An outdated or worn bathroom can make visitors feel less comfortable, while an updated one leaves a lasting impression.
Consider these upgrades:
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Fixtures & Faucets – Swapping out an old faucet, showerhead, or towel bars can make the space feel instantly modern. Matte black, brushed gold, or polished chrome finishes are trending and timeless.
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Vanity & Storage – A new vanity can improve both style and storage. A double-sink vanity in a guest or master bath is especially practical for larger households.
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Tile & Flooring – Updating outdated tile or replacing vinyl flooring with waterproof luxury vinyl plank (LVP) can give your bathroom a spa-like look while handling heavy foot traffic.
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Shower & Tub Upgrades – Frameless glass shower doors, rainfall showerheads, or a freestanding tub can take your bathroom from basic to luxurious.
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Fresh Paint – Even a new coat of moisture-resistant paint can brighten the room and make it feel refreshed.
These improvements can often be completed quickly, so your home is ready for holiday company.
3. Flooring Updates
Flooring often goes unnoticed—until it’s worn, stained, or scratched. With guests coming and going, your floors will take center stage during the holidays.
Options to explore:
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Hardwood Flooring – A timeless choice that adds warmth and beauty. Prefinished engineered hardwoods can often be installed quickly.
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Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) – An affordable, durable option that’s water-resistant and available in countless styles mimicking wood and stone.
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Tile Flooring – Great for bathrooms, entryways, and kitchens, tile offers long-lasting durability and easy cleaning.
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Carpet Replacement – For bedrooms and basements, a fresh carpet installation adds comfort and warmth for the winter months.
New flooring not only improves your home’s appearance but also boosts resale value—making it a smart investment before the new year.
4. Entryway & Living Room Makeovers
Your entryway is the first impression guests will have of your home, and the living room is where most gatherings happen. Refreshing these spaces before the holidays creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Project ideas:
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Front Door Upgrade – A new door with glass inserts or sidelights not only boosts curb appeal but also improves insulation.
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Trim & Molding – Crown molding, baseboards, and window trim provide a polished, high-end look that elevates your interiors.
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Fireplace Update – Consider refacing your fireplace with stone, tile, or a new mantle for a cozy holiday focal point.
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Built-In Storage – Custom shelving or cabinets around a fireplace or TV area create a functional and stylish gathering space.
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Fresh Paint & Décor – A new paint color can completely transform the look of your main spaces. Pair it with updated lighting or furniture for a full refresh.
The result? A home that feels warm, inviting, and holiday-ready the moment guests walk in.
5. Energy-Efficient Improvements
As the colder months set in, homeowners often notice higher utility bills. Tackling energy-efficient upgrades before winter not only makes your home more comfortable but also helps you save money.
Smart upgrades include:
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Windows & Doors – Replacing drafty windows and exterior doors with energy-efficient models helps keep heat inside and reduces drafts.
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Insulation – Adding insulation in attics, basements, or crawlspaces improves comfort and energy efficiency year-round.
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Heating Systems – If your furnace is outdated, upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient system can lower costs and improve reliability before the coldest days hit.
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Smart Thermostats – Installing a programmable or smart thermostat allows for more control over your home’s energy use.
These upgrades are practical investments that pay off both now and in the long run.
6. Exterior Touch-Ups
Don’t forget about curb appeal. Even if much of the holiday season is spent indoors, the exterior of your home is the first thing guests see. A few strategic updates can help your home shine.
Projects worth considering:
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Exterior Painting or Siding – A fresh coat of paint or siding repair can completely transform your home’s look and protect it from harsh winter weather.
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Outdoor Lighting – Pathway lighting, porch sconces, or uplighting on landscaping not only improve safety but also create a welcoming glow.
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Deck & Patio Upgrades – If you plan to use outdoor heaters or firepits, refinishing or repairing your deck ensures it’s ready for guests.
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Roof & Gutter Maintenance – Cleaning and repairing gutters or addressing roof issues prevents costly water damage during the rainy season.
Exterior projects not only prepare your home for the holidays but also protect your investment for years to come.
Don’t Wait—The Holidays Will Be Here Soon
The end of the year is a busy time for both homeowners and contractors. Materials can sell out, and project schedules fill up quickly. If you’re considering a renovation, now is the time to act.
At Pacific Coast Renovations, we specialize in helping Pierce County homeowners transform their homes efficiently, beautifully, and on budget. Whether you want to update your kitchen, refresh your bathrooms, or make your home more energy-efficient, our team is here to make it happen.
Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s get your home ready for the holidays.
