The August Bank Holiday marks the end of summer – a moment to slow down, reset, and get your home ready for the months ahead. While it’s not quite the time for autumn nesting, a little end-of-season refresh can make your home feel lighter, calmer, and more welcoming. I like to use this long weekend to tackle a few quick wins: jobs that take just five to fifteen minutes, but make a noticeable difference. Here are some simple ideas to get you started.
1. Hang a Picture
That artwork or photograph you’ve been meaning to hang? Now’s the time. It takes only a few minutes but instantly lifts a room. All you need is a hammer, nails, and a spirit level (plus a pipe-and-wire detector if you’re being extra safe).
2. Fix Peeling Wallpaper
If summer humidity has caused a corner of your wallpaper to peel, don’t worry – you don’t need to redo the whole wall. Dab wallpaper paste under the loose section, smooth it down with a clean cloth, and it’ll look as good as new.
3. Plump Up Cushions
After a summer of lounging, cushions often lose their bounce. Instead of buying new ones, grab some toy stuffing from a craft shop. Open a small section of the cushion insert, top it up, then sew it closed. I always overfill slightly so the cushions stay plump into autumn.
4. Swap Drawer Handles
An easy seasonal refresh is to update handles on drawers, cabinets, or even kitchen units. Whether you choose brass, wood, or ceramic, this small change makes a big difference. Handmade options on Etsy are brilliant for one-of-a-kind finds.
5. Freshen Curtains and Blinds
Dust builds up over summer, especially with windows open. A steam cleaner can quickly revive curtains, banish odours, and remove creases without taking them down. For blinds, just wipe each slat with a damp cloth and mild detergent, then dry with a rag.
6. Repaint High-Impact Spots
Late summer is a great time to refresh with colour. Instead of tackling an entire room, choose high-impact areas such as a door, window frames, or even a single feature wall. A soft, sun-washed shade can carry the brightness of summer into the cooler months, while deeper tones—like olive green, navy, or terracotta—set the mood for autumn. It’s a simple project that instantly changes the atmosphere of a room and makes everything feel renewed.
These little updates don’t take much time but will give your home a lift—perfect for heading into September feeling refreshed and ready for the season ahead. The August Bank Holiday isn’t just for relaxing (though that’s important too!)—it’s also the perfect moment for a quick home reset.
All images: Clair Strong Interior Design
