Remodel of the Week: Laurel Builders Transforms Cramped Kitchen into Award-Winning Gathering Space

Laurel Builders Inc. of Shakopee, Minnesota, earned the 2025 National Remodeler of the Year Award from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) for their outstanding residential kitchen remodel in the $100,000 to $150,000 category. The project involved reimagining a small, dimly lit kitchen with a disconnected breakfast bar into a bright, open-concept space that seamlessly integrates with the main floor. By removing walls and structural elements, the team created a unified area that offers ample storage, cooking space, and an inviting seating area for family and guests. The…

Read More

5 Home Renovation Projects That Are Most Tariff-Proof

These five remodeling projects are less affected by the rising costs of imported materials due to recent tariffs. They include updating kitchens and bathrooms, enhancing energy efficiency and improving curb appeal, as they often rely on domestically sourced materials or labor-intensive work. Allowing homeowners to focus on these areas to mitigate the impact of increased material costs and ensure their renovations remain within budget. Read More  

Read More

April Private Residential Construction Spending Dips

Private residential construction spending declined for the third month in a row in April, driven by drops in single-family construction and home improvement projects. Compared to a year earlier, total residential spending was down 4.8%, with single-family spending falling 1.1% in April—ending a seven-month growth streak—and multifamily spending down 11.3% year-over-year. Elevated mortgage rates, material tariff concerns, and broader economic uncertainty continue to weigh heavily on the housing sector. Read More  

Read More

Remodeling Trends Reflect Shifts in Homeowner Priorities

The residential remodeling industry is rapidly growing as homeowners seek more functional, sustainable and tech-integrated living spaces, with the market projected to hit $129.07 trillion by 2030. This shift goes beyond aesthetics, reflecting new lifestyles like remote work and eco-conscious living, leading to demand for innovations like energy-efficient materials and adaptable home designs. According to Danny’s Dry Wall, “Aging homes and rising property values driven by investors accounting for 14.8% of home purchases in early 2024 are sustaining demand. As budgets recover post-2024, homeowners are investing in remodels that enhance…

Read More