5 Chicago Renovation Tips to Tidy Up Before the Holidays

As the holiday season approaches in Chicago, many people prepare to welcome friends and family into their homes. With the hustle and bustle of the Windy City just outside the door, creating a tidy, organized, and inviting environment can make the season even more enjoyable.

From maximizing storage to cozying up with Chicago-style decor, here are five essential renovation tips to help Chicagoans organize and refresh their homes before the festivities begin.

1. Create a Functional Entryway

The entryway is the first thing guests will see, making it one of the most important spaces to upgrade for the holidays. In Chicago, where snowy boots, heavy coats, and other winter gear are essential, a well-organized entryway is key.

Tips for a Functional Entryway:

• Install Built-in Storage: Built-in cabinets or cubbies are perfect for organizing winter essentials like scarves, gloves, and hats. They keep items easily accessible come the colder months and reduce clutter.
• Add a Bench with Shoe Storage: A bench not only provides a seat while taking off boots and snow pants, but can also incorporate storage for footwear. This helps reduce mud and snow tracked into the home and provides a neat appearance.
• Use Hooks and Racks: Installing sturdy hooks for coats and bags and a wall-mounted rack for umbrellas will make it easy to store bulky items while keeping the entryway clutter-free. In Chicago, where outerwear is a must, adding extra hooks can accommodate multiple guests’ coats.

2. Upgrade Your Kitchen for Efficient Entertaining

The kitchen is the heart of any home during the holiday season, especially with the city’s rich food culture. From preparing hearty dinners to baking festive treats or host a family holiday, a well-designed, organized kitchen will make holiday hosting much smoother.

Kitchen Organization Tips:

• Install Pull-Out Shelving: Pull-out shelves in cabinets and pantries improve storage accessibility and maximize space. Use them to store baking supplies, spices, and holiday platters, keeping everything within easy reach.
• Add a Kitchen Island: If you have space, a kitchen island provides extra prep space and can double as a serving area during gatherings. It’s also an excellent spot for family and friends to gather while you cook.
• Upgrade Appliances: Investing in efficient, compact appliances, like a dishwasher or convection oven, can speed up cooking and cleaning, giving you more time to spend with loved ones.

3. Create a Cozy and Functional Living Room for Gatherings

In a city where winters are long and cold, Chicagoans know how to make the most of indoor spaces. The living room becomes a focal point for holiday gatherings, so it’s important to make it cozy and inviting.

Living Room Renovation Ideas:

• Install Built-In Shelving and Cabinets: Custom shelving can make organization a breeze, providing a place for board games, blankets, and holiday decorations. Built-ins also add a polished look to the room.
• Consider a Fireplace Upgrade: Whether you have a traditional wood-burning fireplace or a modern electric model, a cozy fireplace can enhance the ambiance and provide warmth during winter. If you don’t have one, consider installing an electric fireplace that doesn’t require venting.
• Upgrade Your Seating: Sectional sofas or modular furniture allow for flexibility, enabling you to rearrange seating as needed to accommodate guests. Adding storage ottomans can help keep extra blankets and pillows hidden but accessible.

4. Revamp Bathrooms for Guest Comfort

Holiday gatherings mean more people using your bathrooms, so it’s important to ensure they’re both functional and welcoming. A few upgrades can help avoid overcrowding and improve the overall experience for your guests.

Bathroom Renovation Tips:

• Add Storage Solutions: Installing shelves, hooks, and cabinets in bathrooms will keep toiletries, towels, and other necessities organized. This is especially helpful if you have limited space.
• Install a Second Sink or Vanity: If you have a larger bathroom, adding a second sink can help accommodate multiple guests, reducing wait times and making mornings less hectic.
• Upgrade to a Tankless Water Heater: Nothing is worse than running out of hot water in the middle of a Chicago winter! A tankless water heater provides on-demand hot water, ensuring that all your guests can enjoy a warm shower.

Chicago Tip: Insulate Pipes and Windows in your bathroom. Chicago winters are notoriously cold, and insulating your bathroom’s pipes and windows can prevent drafts, improve energy efficiency, and reduce heating costs.

5. Create a Cozy Outdoor Space for Year-Round Enjoyment

Chicago winters are known for their chill, but with the right outdoor setup, you can create a warm, usable space even in cold weather. This is ideal for those who want to maximize their hosting options or provide a quiet place to unwind.

Outdoor Space Tips:

• Install a Covered Patio with Heaters: A covered patio offers protection from snow and rain, and with outdoor heaters, you can make the space cozy even in winter. Add a fire pit for extra warmth and ambiance.
• Incorporate Weather-Resistant Furniture: Opt for furniture that can withstand Chicago’s varying weather conditions, from snow to rain to summer heat. Weather-resistant furniture is durable and low-maintenance, saving you time and money in the long run.

Bonus Tip: Streamline Your Storage Areas

Having adequate storage is key to keeping your home organized and clutter-free, especially during the holidays when you may accumulate seasonal items and gifts.

Storage Organization Tips:

• Upgrade Closets with Organizers: Closet organizers, like shelving, hooks, and bins, allow for optimized space use. Dedicate sections for seasonal clothing and holiday decor, making it easy to switch things in and out.
• Use Multi-Functional Furniture: Furniture with hidden storage, such as storage benches, ottomans, or even beds with drawers, can be a lifesaver in smaller Chicago homes or apartments.
• Install Garage Storage Solutions: If you have a garage, consider adding storage racks, hooks, or cabinets to keep holiday items like outdoor lights, ornaments, and extra seating neatly stored and easily accessible.

Chicago Tip: Label boxes and storage bins by season so you can quickly find what you need year after year. This small touch can make holiday preparation much simpler and less stressful.

The Areté Way to Achieve a Holiday-Ready Chicago Home

Preparing your Chicago home for the holidays doesn’t have to mean a complete overhaul, but these strategic renovation tips can make a big difference in creating a welcoming, organized space. From functional entryways to cozy outdoor areas, focusing on thoughtful upgrades will keep your home tidy and ready for the season.

With these renovation ideas, you’ll not only be ready to host family and friends but also have a stylish, Chicago-inspired home that exudes warmth and hospitality. Happy holidays!

Looking to prepare your home for a Chicago winter? Dedicated to quality renovations, stunning design, and integrity in our craft, Areté is the best place to transform your home through any size renovation using quality products and intricate design. Contact Areté Renovators today at 773.683.3033 to start your renovation process and get your home ready for the holidays.