Winter right time for mini projects

Wintertime finds us all indoors more, and, especially after the holiday decorations come down, home base just might be calling out for a bit of a boost. It really does not take much to add a refreshing punch to any room.

There's no need for the wrecking ball or massively expensive renovations. I am always thinking about small ways to introduce a new color or pattern, or redefine the aspect of a room that's gotten a bit tired. Here are some projects that I promise will give you maximum impact with a minimum of time and work.

Let's start with the ceiling, an area that is most often overlooked as a stylemaker, usually painted white and forgotten. You can add surprise, drama and architectural details to a ceiling.

A stunning example is shown here in one of the whimsical guest bedrooms at the Hotel Le Bellechasse in Paris, designed by Christian Lacroix. Oversized butterflies in glorious natural colors float above the bed, promising dreams of youthful adventure. Painting a masterpiece on your ceiling might not be part of your skill set, but there are some simpler ways to make a ceiling sing.

Divide the ceiling into large grids, paint a light and dark line along the grid lines to create some depth. You can produce a sky by layering shades of white and gray for clouds over a blue background. Highlight a ceiling light (sconce or chandelier) by painting a trompe l'oeil frame around it, very effective against a blue sky. You can also build in architectural detail with ceiling moldings and crown moldings, or add beams with 1-by-4-inch strips of pine applied evenly spaced across the surface. Unify the design by painting all one color.

Mini-reno idea two: Engage in a light switch. Dimmers are a decorator's best friend, but I'm thinking a bit further than that. The lighting market is so exciting today, with dazzling options for every kind of light, from floor and table lamps to kitchen sconces and modern chandeliers. What's hanging in your hall right now? Replace nondescript fixtures with some steel and crystal to build impact in your entranceway. Could the kitchen spots over the island be replaced by two or three pendants? Dining room chandeliers cross modern sleek lines with oversized shades and crystal baubles. These new styles update traditional and complement modern decor. Is there a poorly lit corner that could be utilized with a swag floor lamp or torchiere? Any of these light plays will transform a room.

For mini-reno idea three, I chose doors. I'm not considering every door in your home. But why not replace some key interior doors with a more stylish alternative? Visit your door store or browse the Net for inspiration. Etched glass with patterns that allow for partial or full privacy are perfect for the home office, dining room or sitting room.

Glass combines well with wood, composites and wrought iron. Doorways can be redesigned for sliding doors rather than the regular swing variety, and this is a space-making option. A new entrance door makes a powerful statement, and you can take advantage of additional light by introducing some glass sections to the door or side panels.

Next week's column has three more mini-renos that are sure to capture your imagination; a weekend's work that will pay big dividends.

Debbie Travis' House to Home column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Please email your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com. You can follow Debbie on Twitter at @debbie_travis, and visit Debbie's new website, www.debbietravis.com.