space Archives - Huckins Farm

Summer in New England is pure magic. The sun’s shining, the grills are firing up, and that to-do list you’ve been ignoring all winter? Yeah, it’s calling your name. But don’t worry—we’re not talking major renovations. These are simple, satisfying summer DIY projects that will make your home feel fresh, fun, and full of New England charm.

Whether you’re in a Boston brownstone or a Cape Cod cottage, here are some of the top trending summer DIY ideas to tackle this season:

1. Build a Backyard Herb Garden

New Englanders love their fresh ingredients. Whether you’re crafting cocktails or just want to step up your pasta game, an herb garden is a must. You can create a raised bed, repurpose an old pallet, or even use mason jars on your deck rail.

Bonus tip: Add local favorites like basil, thyme, chives, and mint. Your mojitos will thank you.

2. Refresh Your Front Door with a Pop of Color

A bold door is the easiest curb appeal upgrade ever. Think sea glass blue for coastal vibes or a classic Nantucket red to really show off that New England pride.

Pair it with a DIY seasonal wreath using shells, driftwood, or local wildflowers for a Pinterest-worthy entrance.

3. Craft Coastal Planters with a Nautical Twist

Pick up some terracotta pots and wrap them in rope, paint them with beachy colors, or stencil on starfish and anchors. These look great on porches, patios, and even window sills.

4. ✨ Create an Outdoor Movie Space

Use a blank wall or hang a white sheet, grab a projector, and boom—you’ve got the coolest backyard in the neighborhood. Add string lights, comfy pillows, and don’t forget the bug spray (hey, it’s still New England).

This is a favorite for warm summer nights and makes your home the hangout spot all season.

5. Upcycle Old Furniture (Yard Sale Finds Welcome!)

New England towns are full of summer yard sales—aka DIY treasure hunts. Sand down that forgotten chair, paint it with chalk paint, and give it new life. Or turn an old dresser into a cute outdoor bar for summer cocktails.

Upcycling is eco-friendly, wallet-friendly, and totally on trend in 2025.

6. Build a Backyard Fire Pit

Gather some bricks or stones, clear a space, and you’re in business. A fire pit adds warmth, light, and endless marshmallow-toasting potential. Perfect for New England nights that cool down fast—even in July.

Be sure to check your local fire safety codes before you strike that first match!

Why These DIY Projects Matter

These aren’t just weekend time-fillers. Summer DIY projects help you:

Boost curb appeal
Increase your home’s value
Make the most of your outdoor space
Create meaningful memories with your crew

Ready to Roll Up Your Sleeves?

Whether you’re going coastal chic or rustic farmhouse, these projects are perfect for anyone looking to add a little charm (and maybe a little sweat equity) to their New England home.

DIY doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small, have fun, and embrace that perfectly imperfect, hand-crafted charm. Summer flies by in New England—make the most of it by creating a space you love coming home to.

DEBBIE SPENCER GROUP

REALTOR®, CRS, SRES

m: 617-285-7300
t: 781-860-7300
e: debbie@thedebbiespencergroup.com

1 Militia Drive, Suite 204, Lexington, MA 02421

www.thedebbiespencergroup.com

Deciding if it is time for your family to upsize or downsize is not always a clear choice. There are factors to consider that might push you to take the leap or stay put for a while longer. Whether you are thinking about upsizing so your family can spread out or purging possessions so you can downsize, here are some questions to ponder.

1. How are you using your current space?
Do your family members feel like they don’t have adequate privacy or space to do their own thing? Are you tired of working at the dining table and really need an office or workshop? Is having the kids share bedrooms just not working out? Maybe an upsize is warranted. On the other hand, do you have rooms that aren’t being used, or are you tired of paying property taxes on more house than you need? Check for the downsize column!

2. Have you considered the maintenance costs?
If upsizing is on your mind, consider the added costs for maintaining a larger home and property, whether in money or time. Will you be able to keep up with cleaning, lawn care, and general maintenance issues that come with owning a home? If you are ready to cross maintenance off your to-do list, perhaps you are ready to downsize to a more manageable property or one where the HOA handles part of the job.

3. What are your outdoor space needs?
Are you ready to give up having a yard or garden to downsize to a maintenance-free space? Do you have pets that need outdoor space? Do you need more outdoor space for your children to play or your dog to run around in? The size of the house is one thing, but the property is important also.

4. Have you looked to the future?
What do you expect your needs to be in the next five, ten, or twenty years? Do you want a large home where your children and grandchildren will come for vacations and holidays, or will you be spending those times at their homes? Will you want to entertain groups of friends, or do you foresee going out for your entertainment? What will happen if your spouse passes; will you want to stay in the home on your own?

5. Do the financial implications add up in your favor?
Can you handle the higher costs involved with a larger home, or are you ready to cut costs with a downsize? Consider where you stand on your current mortgage. Are you alright with starting a new mortgage at this point in your life, or are you in a position to purchase in cash? What are the tax implications for your move?

6. Is it the right market to upsize or downsize?
A seller’s market is hot for those looking to sell a larger home and downsize. Upsizing may be riskier in a big seller’s market, but if your family would be happier in a larger home, it might be worth the leap.
Whatever questions you have about purchasing your next home, I’d be honored to assist you. So let’s work together to make sure your next move is the right one.