As we head into the fall months, lumber prices remain stable. Throughout the year the market saw swings up and down as construction increases in the summer months then softens in winter. While the swings are not volatile, additional news of impending tariffs lends concern to the future. While the prices of lumber is relatively stable, closely matching how it was in 2023, many key professionals say this is due to decreased supply. Western-SPF in Canada and Eastern-SPF purchasers voiced their supply concerns not matching the construction demand. “In the…
Read MoreYear: 2025
Self-Luxury: Redefining Home Renovation
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 MoreRemodel 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…
Read MoreRemodeled Home Goes Light on Demolition, Heavy on Efficiency
The New American Remodel® 2026 takes a “soft remodel” approach, revitalizing a 1951 Winter Park, Florida home without stripping it down completely. Overseen by the Phil Kean Design Group, the project expands the house from 3,341 to 3,905 square feet while preserving much of its original structure. The remodel focuses on strategic design updates and product integrations that enhance livability, sustainability and performance, turning an outdated, inefficient property into a contemporary, eco-friendly residence. Energy efficiency is at the heart of the project, with advanced methods such as injected foam insulation,…
Read MoreThe Ultimate Mid-Century Modern Kitchen and Laundry Makeover
The Highland Park kitchen and laundry renovation by DorianBahr masterfully balances mid-century modern design with today’s innovations, creating a space that is both elegant and highly functional. Thoughtful details such as walnut veneer cabinetry, black pewter appliances and acorn-shaped pendants preserve the warmth and character of the 1950s while incorporating modern conveniences like LED lighting and a pop-up downdraft system. Every design decision was made to respect the home’s historic charm while ensuring the space met contemporary needs for efficiency and comfort. This project, known as The Lacey Project, has…
Read MoreMajor Bathroom Renovation Trends
Bathroom renovations remain one of the most valuable investments for homeowners, both for boosting resale value and improving daily comfort. According to the 2025 Houzz Bathroom Trends Study, the median spend on bathroom remodels in 2024 was $13,000, with major renovations averaging $22,000. Instead of complete overhauls, most homeowners focus on system upgrades like ventilation, heating and plumbing improvements, while nearly 40% expand their showers. Accent walls are also making a splash in bathrooms, with blue emerging as the most popular choice. Other trends highlight the growing demand for functionality…
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