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a brick house with a lawn and trees redesign your home
Greenbrook Design

Life, Styled

DIY Home Improvement For The Win:

Projects to Keep You Productive During the COVID-19 Pandemic

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By now, you may be over the whole quarantine thing. Sure, the first week or two was kind of refreshing. Being stuck at home was an opportunity to shift your life perspective, spend time with loved ones, and refocus your priorities. But that was a couple of months ago.

If you’re like most Americans, you’re still self-quarantining at some level, and you may be looking for new ways to stay productive. That’s where DIY home improvement projects come in. Below, you will find some practical ideas on home improvements you can make during the pandemic — some simple and others requiring a little more effort.

Cash-Out Refinancing

Your first order of business should be to consider whether or not you will be taking on any major projects and whether you will be able to pay for them. For instance, remodeling the bathroom or kitchen can add a lot of value to your home, but it also costs a significant upfront expense. And with interest rates as low as they are, right now is the ideal time to consider a cash-out refinance. With this kind of refinancing, you can use the cash you receive to complete the larger home improvements on your to-do list.

There are several options for cash-out refinancing, the three most popular being conventional, FHA, and VA cashouts. Do your research to determine which type would work best for your situation, and then contact your lender to see if you qualify.

Refreshing The Bathroom

Out of all the rooms in a home, the bathroom is generally one of the most valuable when it comes time to sell. That’s why giving your bathroom some attention can pay off in the long run. If your master or guest bathroom needs work, take advantage of being home and tackle it now. Things like repairing cabinet doors, re-caulking around the vanity and bathtub, putting in contemporary lighting, and giving the walls a fresh coat of paint can spruce up your bathroom.

a bathroom with a tub and a mirror bathroom design
Walker Woodworking

Updating The Kitchen

The kitchen is typically the other most valuable room in a home, so consider any ways to boost your kitchen’s appeal and quality. For instance, replacing cabinet handles/knobs, updating the appliances, painting the walls, and adding an island can make a big difference.

If you want to make a significant investment, consider installing new countertops and/or flooring. Moreover, new cabinetry can also transform a kitchen; if your cabinets have seen better years but you don’t have room in your budget for new ones, refacing or repainting them might be a project worth looking into.

If you’re looking to boost productivity while you’re stuck at home, making improvements to your home is one of the best things you can do. Remember to consider cash-out refinancing if you need funding to pay for some of your projects, and look into DIY home security systems if you don’t already have a quality security system. Finally, pay special attention to your bathroom and kitchen to add both appeal and value to your home.

Visit Greenbrook Design’s showroom located in beautiful Uptown Shelby. They proudly serve 16 counties, including Cleveland County, Mecklenburg, Buncombe, Greenville, and Watauga.

A kitchen with a large island countertop with white cabinets and barstools with wood floor
Walker Woodworking

DIY Home Security

When it comes to your home, nothing is more important than security. Therefore, if you don’t have a reliable, easy-to-use security system in place, now is the perfect time to change that! And the best part about modern home security is that there are a lot of DIY options.

DIY systems are cost-effective and easy to install, and allow you to monitor your property remotely through a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Research the best DIY home security system for your needs and budget online.

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connecting spaces

Connecting Spaces with Character

Design Notes

Connection has become a priority in the home over the last couple of years. It can be considered the most basic function of the home, as this is where we gather with family and friends to celebrate, congratulate, and comfort one another. Designing with socializing opportunities has been at the forefront of design for decades, exemplified by spaces such as sitting rooms and large dining tables. This need for connection has made a strong comeback, and designers are once again looking for ways to bring families together. We want to have a home where we can relax and easily engage with one another, but many homeowners also desire spaces that are unified while still retaining a unique character of their own. Let’s talk about how to create a home with connecting spaces. 

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February 14, 2022/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-dining-room-lighting-wood-lighting-dining-room.jpg?fit=1707%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1707 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2022-02-14 16:32:382025-07-25 16:33:00Connecting Spaces with Character
tile in the home

Why use tile in the home?

Design Notes

Several variables are involved in selecting the perfect tile, including material, pattern, and color, as well as factors that influence style and placement. Tile is also a versatile and durable design element, making it a suitable option for frequently used areas. Let’s explore how you can incorporate tile in the home.

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February 14, 2022/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Walker-Woodworking-master-bath-shower-white-subway-tile-stand-alone-shower.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2022-02-14 10:19:522025-07-20 10:20:40Why use tile in the home?
a kitchen with a large islandGreenbrook Design

Top 5 Kitchen Design Mistakes

Design Notes

The kitchen tends to be one of the busiest areas in the home, and over the last year, it has become more than just a place to cook food. It has evolved into a multifunctional space where everyone gathers to perform a wide range of tasks. With so much at stake, planning a renovation requires careful thought and well-designed plans. Many designers caution against following the latest trends, but there are a few additional design mistakes they also encourage their clients to avoid. If you are considering a renovation or a new construction project, here are our top five biggest kitchen design mistakes to avoid.

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February 1, 2022/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Semi-custom-cabinets-Metropolitan-Cabinets-blue-island-Metro-Door-kitchen-remodel-large-island-farmhouse-kitchen-Greenbrook-Design-Rainstorm-paint-color-lighting-for-island.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2022-02-01 16:59:332025-07-25 17:02:31Top 5 Kitchen Design Mistakes
Walker Woodworking custom cabinets Graber windwo treatments double griddle four burner stovetop inset white cabinets white kitchen cabinets under cabinet lighting Metro Quartz countertop

What You Need To Know: Top 5 Countertop Questions

Design Notes

Countertops are often underappreciated and underrated in the design world. They are the true workhorses of any space, as they are used regularly and withstand a great deal. We chop, pound, knead, spill, and more all over these smooth surfaces, yet they continue to function day after day. Unfortunately, they are not meant to last forever. Experts recommend replacing them every 10 to 15 years, especially if signs of wear and tear are evident, such as stubborn stains, chips, or cracks.

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February 1, 2022/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-Graber-windwo-treatments-double-griddle-four-burner-stovetop-inset-white-cabinets-white-kitchen-cabinets-under-cabinet-lighting-Metro-Quartz-countertop.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2022-02-01 16:52:482025-07-25 16:53:08What You Need To Know: Top 5 Countertop Questions
A kitchen with white cabinets and a tea kettleWalker Woodworking

Top 5 New Items in Kitchen and Bath

Design Notes

Sometimes, certain areas of home decor have been influenced by trends that are no longer in style and can make the space feel dated or even uninviting. Rooms also serve a specific purpose, and those can change over time. If your children are no longer living with you, their bedroom can be transformed into a craft room or even a guest suite. There are also some new things that are making their way onto potential homebuyers’ lists. We have done some research for you and discovered some of the top new items being used in home design.

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January 28, 2022/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-kitchen-backsplash-top-knob-hardware-double-oven-inset-cabinets-white-kitchen.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2022-01-28 17:20:522025-07-25 17:21:17Top 5 New Items in Kitchen and Bath
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112 N. Lafayette St.
Shelby, NC 28150

 

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Jan@greenbrookdesign.com
980-404-9600

 

Showroom Hours:
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Our showroom is open to the public. Design meetings require an appointment, which can be done by phone or email. CONTACT US

 

Vendors require an appointment. Please contact: Jan@greenbrookdesign.com

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