mostly just listing things for myself incase i forget, i hope this list can help somebody else though.
windows software
visual
- secureuxtheme [namazso] - c++, theme loader, open source, driverless, secure boot compatible, no file modifications [recommended]
- ultrauxthemepatcher [manuel hoefs] - c++, theme loader, closed source, secure boot compatible, modifies files
- openshell [openshell] - c++, collection of modifications [taskbar, internet explorer & file explorer], open source
- retrobar [dremin] - c#, taskbar replacement, open source, simple installation & configuration
- explorer patcher [valinet] - c, file explorer modifier, open source
security
other
- scoop [luke sampson] - powershell, package manager, open source, no admin requirements, scriptable [recommended]
- chocolatey [rob reynolds] - c#, package manager, open source, nuget reliance, pollutes path
- paint.net [dotpdn] - c#, photo editor, closed source
other resources
windows 7 modifications
guides
visual
configurations