Once measured by square footage, imported finishes, and dramatic statement pieces, it has shifted toward what we are calling self-luxury, the creation of personal spaces that restore, ground and comfort us. At Chapter, a full-service design-build firm, we define self-luxury as the intersection of design and self-care — treating the home not as a backdrop but as an active participant that nurtures well-being as intentionally as one cares for body and mind. This philosophy guided a recent Westchester renovation, offering a glimpse into how this new approach to luxury is…
Read MoreDay: October 1, 2025
Remodel of the Week: Historic Lake Geneva
Facing Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, a Greek Revival facade underwent a remodel and addition to blend modern needs with its historic charm. The project, in collaboration with En Masse Architecture and Abrams Valenti Interiors completely revitalized the underused property by modernizing the layout and upgrading fixtures. While the home has underwent other remodels, the layout of the 4,000-square-foot home, did not align with the new owners’ lifestyle. The kitchen and the dining room were relocated to better connect with the outdoors and add a private terrace. The new scullery allows for separation…
Read MoreHow one kitchen remodel survived a hazards stack-up
For homeowners Mary and Dave, the goal of their kitchen remodel was to create a more functional, welcoming space that worked for their family of five while still honoring the character of their 1920s home. Dana King designer Meg Blaies approached the project by reimagining inefficient closets and a disjointed bar into ample storage, improving workflow with appliance placement and adding custom elements, such as a built-in-style hutch. Historic details were preserved wherever possible, with thoughtful updates such as subway tile in a herringbone pattern, cove molding and wavy glass…
Read MoreCreating spaces that grow with you
Most remodels focus on creating the perfect space for today—a dream kitchen, a finished basement or a relaxing bathroom retreat. But the most impactful renovations are those designed to last, evolving alongside your needs and lifestyle for years to come. By planning beyond current wants, homeowners can avoid costly updates later and ensure their spaces remain both functional and timeless as life changes. Flexible layouts, like basements that can shift from playrooms to gyms or in-law suites, and multipurpose rooms that adapt over time, help homes stay relevant through every…
Read MoreNew tariffs on building material and cabinet imports
The U.S. Commerce Department released a notice that they are implementing a 10% tariff on all timber and lumber imports and an additional 25% tariff on kitchen cabinets and furniture. They announced that imports of these materials and products pose a national security risk. The tariffs go into effect on Oct. 14. The tariffs on furniture products are expected to rise to 30% on Jan. 1, 2026. The kitchen cabinet levies are scheduled to double to 50% on the same date. Lumber America does not produce enough soft lumber to…
Read MorePrices for home remodeling outpaced inflation in the second quarter
Home repair and remodeling costs are climbing faster than inflation, according to Verisk’s latest Repair and Remodeling Index, which showed a 3.4% annual increase in the April–June quarter compared to a 2.7% rise in consumer prices overall. The index, which tracks more than 10,000 products, also rose 0.6% from the prior quarter. Much of the increase is being driven by higher labor costs, with the most labor-intensive projects, such as tile replacement and bathroom remodels, seeing the steepest quarterly gains. While tariffs on imported goods were expected to push costs…
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