10 Powerful DIY Home Upgrades and Decor Trends in Kenya

In today’s fast-evolving Kenyan housing landscape, more homeowners are taking home improvement into their own hands through DIY home upgrades. With the rising cost of professional remodeling, DIY (do-it-yourself) methods offer a cost-effective, personalized way to enhance interiors and raise property value.

From Nairobi apartments to suburban homes in Kiambu, Kenyans are embracing creative projects that require minimal tools but deliver maximum impact. This guide explores 10 powerful DIY home upgrades and decor trends that are redefining Kenyan homes.

1. Statement Accent Walls with Local Flair

Accent walls are among the easiest and most affordable ways to upgrade a room. Many Kenyans are using textured paint, wood paneling, or wallpaper inspired by local prints such as Maasai shuka or Kitenge patterns to create stunning focal points.

These accent walls work particularly well in living rooms, bedrooms, and even home offices, adding bold character and cultural depth.

2. Reclaimed Wood and Pallet Furniture

Reclaimed wood and pallets have become a major DIY resource for Kenyan homeowners interested in eco-friendly design. Whether it’s a custom coffee table, bookshelf, or TV stand, pallets are repurposed into functional and rustic furniture pieces.

This trend not only saves money but also promotes sustainability and adds charm to interiors.

3. Indoor Plants and Vertical Gardens

Urban gardening is booming in Kenya, particularly in city apartments where space is limited. DIY vertical gardens or indoor plants like snake plants, succulents, and peace lilies are being used to create calming and fresh environments.

Vertical planters made from recycled plastic or wood provide a green solution that also doubles as decorative art.

4. LED Mood Lighting and Smart Bulbs

DIY lighting upgrades can transform a room’s atmosphere. Kenyans are increasingly using LED strips and smart bulbs that change color and brightness to create mood-specific lighting.

These installations can be done without rewiring and controlled via mobile apps or smart home systems like Alexa and Google Home.

5. Floating Shelves and Open Storage

Floating shelves serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Whether in the kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom, these easy-to-install wooden or metal shelves are ideal for decluttering while maintaining style.

They are also perfect for showcasing books, plants, and handmade crafts.

6. Peel-and-Stick Tiles and Vinyl Flooring

For renters and homeowners looking to avoid permanent changes, peel-and-stick wall tiles and vinyl floor sheets are ideal. They are waterproof, easy to install, and available in a wide variety of patterns.

This trend is especially popular in Nairobi’s rental market, where stylish but removable updates are appreciated by landlords and tenants alike.

7. Custom Curtain Rods and African-Inspired Drapery

Curtain rods made from painted PVC pipes or wood dowels are becoming popular DIY projects. They pair well with handmade drapery featuring Kitenge, Ankara, or Tie and Dye prints, giving rooms a warm, personal, and distinctly African touch.

8. Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Instead of replacing cabinets, many Kenyans are choosing to reface or repaint them. Popular shades include matte black, white, or teal. Adding new handles or knobs completes the upgrade and gives kitchens a modernized look for a fraction of the price.

9. Budget-Friendly Bathroom Makeovers

DIY bathroom upgrades such as stick-on backsplash tiles, new mirrors, towel hooks, and upgraded showerheads are low-cost yet impactful changes. Homeowners are learning basic plumbing techniques to handle minor installations without hiring professionals.

10. DIY Wall Art and Local Crafts

Custom wall art is on the rise, from framed fabric to stenciled quotes and family photo collages. Many homeowners incorporate locally sourced decor like woven baskets, wooden masks, and beadwork to celebrate Kenyan heritage in their interior design.

Planning Your DIY Project: Step-by-Step

1. Identify the Area to Upgrade – Choose a room or element that needs attention.
2. Set a Budget – Estimate your material and tool costs upfront.
3. Research – Watch YouTube tutorials, visit local workshops, or talk to hardware suppliers.
4. Shop Smart – Purchase supplies from affordable spots like Kamukunji, Gikomba, or Jumia.
5. Do a Test Run – Try your technique on a small section before tackling the full project.

Must-Have Tools for DIY Projects in Kenya

• Tape measure
• Screwdrivers and drill
• Spirit level
• Hammer
• Paint rollers and brushes
• Cutter and utility knife
• Wood glue or hot glue gun

These are easily available in local hardware stores across Nairobi and other towns.

Budget Tips for Maximum Impact

• Shop off-season or during end-of-year clearance sales
• Repurpose old items (e.g., crates, glass jars, broken furniture)
• Collaborate with neighbors for bulk material discounts
• Prioritize projects with high visibility (entryway, living room)

Kenyans report spending as little as KES 7,000 to KES 15,000 on single-room DIY transformations.

Benefits of DIY Home Upgrades

• Increases property value by up to 20% for basic improvements
• Encourages personal creativity and ownership
• Reduces reliance on expensive contractors
• Promotes sustainability through recycling and repurposing
• Enhances comfort and functionality of living spaces

Risks and How to Avoid Them

1. Injury: Use protective gear and follow safety instructions.
2. Poor results: Always prep surfaces and follow instructions carefully.
3. Wasted materials: Double-check your measurements before cutting or painting.
4. Time management: Set realistic deadlines and don’t rush projects.

Want a new apartment designed with modern finishes that you can personalize? Explore Gazebo Apartments

Need inspiration? Browse high-end design trends at Architectural Digest

Conclusion

With a growing DIY culture, Kenyan homeowners are embracing affordable, stylish, and personalized ways to upgrade their homes. Whether you’re repainting, installing floating shelves, or creating a vertical garden, these powerful DIY trends prove that home transformation doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Start small, stay consistent, and enjoy the satisfaction of building a space that truly feels like yours. With creativity and the right guidance, your home can reflect your personality, culture, and comfort—without relying on professionals.