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Easy Home Upgrades To Start Your Year Off Right

Whenever I leave for a trip, I really try to clean my house really well. I’m talking sheets laundered, bed made, every room vacuumed, surfaces wiped down, you get it. I tell myself that “Future Jess” is going to be so happy. And surprise, Future Jess is ALWAYS extremely grateful that Past Jess made her life so easy and nice when she gets home. The same principle could apply to you right now. There could be a couple of things you’ve been wanting to add or upgrade, but they’ve been pushed down the list. Think now of crossing those things off, while saving money, and all before the start of the new year! Future You would likely be unbelievably happy and grateful. So today, we’re looking at Wayfair’s pretty wonderful End of Year Clearance Sale to round up some of these simple but very impactful easy home upgrades. I mean, up to 60% off and fast shipping, while checking off “want to do” boxes is a Christmas present in and of itself. Let’s get into it.

There are not many of us who couldn’t benefit from some more storage… especially really beautiful storage. I LOVE both of these cabinets, and if I had the space, would happily have one in my home. Plus, both of these cabinets offer open and closed storage. That means you can show off your pretty things and hide away the items that are best kept out of sight until they are needed. I know arches have been all the rage, but both of these feel so classic that they will seamlessly work stylistically for many years to come. Oh, and did I mention that they are HEAVILY on sale and each comes in three different wood tones? So yes, this is such a smart (and pretty) purchase to make your 2026 start on the right foot.

easy home upgrades
design by mallory wackerman | styled by emily bowser | photo by veronica crawford | from: a full look inside mal’s 500 sqft resort-like hollywood oasis

Remember when Mallory had the genius idea to use storage benches as her banquette seating in her studio apartment? Well, it looked so good, but they definitely weren’t inexpensive. Luckily for all of us, Wayfair has a nearly identical option for a fraction of the price! It also comes in black and white oak and is under $300. See? I told you it was good! Again, the more storage the better, and these would make great dining benches, a perfect entry bench, and awesome in a bedroom. So many uses and options.

Do you have a room that needs both an architectural feature and some soundproofing? These wall panels are for you. Practically every home I’ve lived in before this one hasn’t had great insulation, meaning sound travels. These are a very cool and chic way to help that problem! Maybe if you’re getting your kids an instrument for the holidays, consider getting these as a present for you to help dampen their practising:) Everyone wins!

If you’ve looked into good Roman shades, then you know they can cost A LOT. Enter these thermal, blackout, cordless shades that are 68% off. So basically, you are getting really awesome shades that come in a bunch of colors and size options for such an incredible deal. The reviews are also really great, so I highly suggest you check these out. And I can tell you from experience, your room will feel different in the best way when you add window treatments.

A new rug makes a room feel brand new, guaranteed and we really love this one! A little color so it’s not too neutral but not too bright to distract. The perfect modern traditional rug, if you ask me.

design by jess bunge | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: jess’ long and skinny balcony reveal!!

I know we are practically in winter, so prepping your outdoor space for the spring sooner rather than later (especially if you have some time off around the new year) isn’t a bad idea. These wood tiles are such a great way to personalize and make your outdoor space look more polished. I used something similar on my balcony and still love it. The wood is so pretty that there’s no need to paint them, like I did with mine, but it’s also an option if you want.

Move over, garage fridge, and hello, refrigerator drawers! A true dream of mine, if I ever own a home. These are great because they can be freestanding or easily integrated into your cabinets if you are renovating. Emily has them in her mountain house and her farmhouse, if that tells you anything:) Oh, and they are 68% off…

design by mallory wackerman | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: see how mallory turned her coat closet into a speakeasy

Speaking of fridges, maybe this is the year you finally get that freestanding beverage fridge. If you are like me and are renting, this may be the more practical option to the drawers I was just talking about. But of course, you can be a homeowner and get one too:) As an avid beverage consumer, this would undoubtedly level up my 2026. Did I mention it’s under $200??

And finally, if you don’t really “need” anything but are looking for a small but impactful upgrade (especially for those cold winter nights), warm light light bulbs are a game-changer. These ones are a bit more decorative and have a vintage feel, but that only makes them better in my book. A quick, affordable fix. Isn’t that the best kind??

So while I don’t want anyone to feel pressure to upgrade their homes, sometimes making small changes (particularly when the deals are so good) is just a nice thing to do for yourself. With that said, we highly recommend checking out Wayfair’s End of Year Clearance Sale that’s happening until January 1st. Great pieces for awesome prices that will get to you fast.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Mallory Wackerman | Styled by Emily Bowser | Photo by Veronica Crawford | From: A Full Look Inside Mal’s 500 Sqft Resort-Like Hollywood Oasis

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agromechindustries
18 seconds ago

This post is such a motivating way to head into a new year, and the upgrades you chose feel both beautiful and genuinely doable. Focusing on small but impactful tweaks like fresh textiles, better lighting, stylish storage, and a few well-timed Wayfair sale finds shows how you can completely refresh a space without a full renovation. Thanks for blending design inspiration with practical links and tips—it makes it so easy for readers to take action and give their homes a cozy reset.

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