Resolutions to ace your space

From kitchen renovations to organizing and clearing out to finally painting the walls, why not resolve to get your nest looking its best in 2012?

Changes don't have to be expensive to make an impact.

"Setting realistic goals that provide immediate gratification, such as painting an accent wall or clearing the clutter with new home organization items ... can make a huge difference in your home's appearance immediately," said Jaclyn Pardini, a spokeswoman for Lowe's.

Artist Chandra Michaels of Sugarluxe art and accessories ( www.sugarluxe.com) plans to spend at least part of the new year pushing a paintbrush. A relatively small investment in paint can provide dramatic improvements.

"As an artist I find I'm so much happier when surrounded by color," Michaels said. "I'm painting walls, the front door - in a retro aqua - love!"

Dara Caponigro, editor-in-chief of Veranda magazine, resolves to have people over at least once per month in the new year. That will encourage her to focus on tablescapes, which she loves.

"I think setting a beautiful table can be such an expression of who you are and so satisfying because it's a little mini creative project," Caponigro said.

Pardini recommends small updates that have big impact.

"In today's economy, homeowners are thinking in terms of what needs to be done and focusing their time and money on refresh-type decor projects," Pardini said. "For example, instead of tackling a complete kitchen remodel, they may update the color and texture of their countertops and cabinets with a paint product called Cabinet and Countertop Transformations for a new look that costs less than $500."

Experiment in the kitchen with a bold hue of paint, because with limited wall space, the color won't overwhelm the room. "Consider food-inspired paint colors," Pardini suggested.