When deciding which home renovation projects to tackle next, many homeowners struggle between choosing practical projects that their home needs and ones that the homeowner wants. For instance, while you may want a new coat of paint in your bedroom, your refrigerator having a leak is a more pressing concern. However, in many cases, you don’t have to choose between practicality and style. Below are just a few home renovation ideas that will not only make your home look better but are also practical investments.

Modern, Energy-Efficient Windows

A great place to start is with your home’s windows. Your windows not only have a big aesthetic impact on a room but also on the home’s value and operating costs. If your windows are on the older side, now may be a good time to upgrade to more energy-efficient versions.

With energy-efficient windows, you’ll help your home moderate the internal temperature, saving you on heating and cooling costs. New windows will also help raise the value of your home, especially if you plan on selling in the near future. Lastly, you can use the opportunity of getting new windows to change up the appearance of the room. For instance, maybe you opt for larger windows in a room for more natural light or go with windows that have a black trim for a stark contrast with the rest of the space.

Durable Vinyl Flooring

A common home renovation project is replacing flooring. That’s because no matter how careful you are, your home’s flooring will take a beating over time. You may have some worn-down carpeting or faded hardwood floors that you want to replace.

One flooring option you should consider is durable vinyl flooring. Vinyl flooring can last longer than carpeting and hardwood floors and is ideal for homes with children or pets, or in areas susceptible to dirty shoes. According to Arizona Hardwood Floor Supply, “The uniqueness of vinyl plank flooring is primarily because of its special layered construction. The top layer protects against scratches and scuffs, making it a lot easier to maintain than hardwood floors. Underneath the top layer are strong support layers that give each vinyl plank incredible stability and strength. You will rarely ever see vinyl planks break or collapse under external pressures such as foot traffic.

A Statement Wall for Storage

If you have a large, empty wall, consider turning it into a statement wall that doubles as extra storage. For example, you could install a large bookshelf that covers the majority of the wall area. You’d then have a ton of extra storage space and a statement piece that draws the eye when you walk in. To further enhance the look, you can paint the wall behind the bookshelf a bold color that stands out from the other walls or use wallpaper for a more high-end look. Another option is to install some lighting behind the bookshelf, helping it stands out even when the room lights are dim.

Turn Your Nook into an Office

Working from home is becoming increasingly popular. If you work from home but don’t have a dedicated space to do so, consider turning an unused nook into a workspace. You might have an unused space in one of your hallways or underneath a staircase that would be perfect for a small, compact home office. All you’d need to add is a floating desk for your computer, a comfortable chair, and maybe some shelves for storage. To make the space more comfortable, consider a fresh coat of paint in your nook or adding a soft area rug underneath your desk.

Energy Efficient Appliances

When raising your home’s value is one of your biggest priorities, consider upgrading your outdated appliances. Appliances are often a big factor when negotiating the sale price of a home, and if you have new, energy-efficient models, you’ll be able to set a higher asking price. And, between now and when you sell the home, you’ll get to enjoy these new appliances and the cost savings that come from them.

Mood Control with Layered Lighting

Finally, consider adding some mood lighting to common areas or your bedroom. There are many light fixtures that allow you to control the color and intensity of the light with a remote control or through your smartphone. With just the tap of a button, you can instantly change the mood of a room, turning your child’s playroom during the day into a relaxing spot to read a book at night. When paired with more traditional lighting sources, you can create unique atmospheres in each room that are not only stylish but practical.