Summer is just around the corner, meaning homeowners are thinking more and more about renovations. Warmer temperatures, longer days and drier conditions make summer one of the most practical times to tackle home improvement projects. The following trends are going to be at the top of clients’ renovation design list. Outdoor improvements are among the most popular projects right now. In a 2025 Fixr survey, 56% of home improvement experts said outdoor and backyard upgrades are a growing priority for homeowners. Adding a fire pit can make the backyard a…
Read MoreDay: May 27, 2026
New construction trends to watch this year
Five new construction trends are emerging in Twin Cities, Minn. By next spring, these are the trends homebuyers are going to be asking about for their renovations. Black metal mullion windows are showing up in starter homes, custom builds and remodels, bringing in natural light into homes and expanding the interior space. Tongue-and-groove white oak planking on tray and cathedral ceilings has been frequently paired with structural beams. The ceiling as fifth wall trend has graduated out of kitchens and is now showing up in primary bedrooms and screened porches.…
Read MoreRemodel of the Week: Kismet Reimagined
In Portland, Ore., Mountainwood Homes revitalized a well-loved 40-year-old-home with an uncomfortable kitchen layout and dated design throughout. The team completed this whole-home renovation, Kismet Reimagined, by adding a pacific northwest moody flair, while honoring the home’s original elements that complemented daily life. On the cosmetic side, the Mountainwood team thoughtfully integrated new terrazzo tile, flooring, walnut cabinetry and wallpaper in rich natural hues. The kitchen received upgraded designer appliances and a reconfiguration of the island, removing the sink for function and adding seating for entertainment. The new home is…
Read MoreU.S. Census Bureau April 2026 Residential Construction Report
On May 21, 2026, the U.S. Census Bureau released its Monthly New Residential Construction report for April 2026. Regarding building permits, single-family authorizations in April were at a rate of 872,000, 2.6% below the revised March figure of 895,000. Across the U.S., privately-owned housing starts in April were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1,465,000, 2.8% (±11%)* below the revised March estimate of 1,507,000, but 4.6% (±13.9%)* above the April 2025 rate of 1,400,000. Single-family housing starts in April were at a rate of 930,000, which is 9% below…
Read MoreNARI introduces 2026-27 leadership
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) introduced its 2026-2027 executive officers following the association’s Annual Conference House of Delegates. Sworn in at the event was Jonathan Kelly, CRA, who will serve as NARI President for the 2026-2027 term. Other members of the executive committee are: Aaron Enfinger, CR, Chairman of the Board, The Cleary Company, Columbus, Ohio. Joe Bowen, President-Elect, Bowen Remodeling & Design,Crofton, Md. David Davison, MCR, MCKBR, Treasurer, Realty Restoration, LLC, Austin, Texas. James Kitchin, MCR, GCP, Secretary, InterWorks, LLC, Portland, Ore. “One of the moments…
Read MoreNAHB urges Congress to advance housing supply reforms
On May 21, 2026, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Chairman Bill Owens, a home builder and remodeler from Worthington, Ohio, testified before the House Small Business Committee on how small builders can help close the nation’s housing gap. “NAHB estimates the country is facing a structural shortage of about 1.2 million homes,” said Owens. “Small builders are doing all they can to increase housing supply, but they cannot overcome the shortage as long as rising costs and system delays continue to hold back progress.” In his testimony, he…
Read MoreBathroom renovations shift away from trending designs
Bathroom design trends are constantly changing; trends shift with time and most homeowners are looking to renovate spaces for long-term living. Designers are starting to see homeowners renovate their bathrooms, one of the most used and personal spaces of the home, with functionality and personalization in mind, rather than following trending designs. The once-popular sleek, all-white bathroom design now feels cold and sterile. Instead, homeowners are looking to renovate their bathrooms to feel more lived-in, softer and personal. Similar to the all-white bathroom design, the all-gray look that once made…
Read MoreConstruction employment increases in 32 states
Construction employment rose in 32 states from April 2025 to April 2026, according to an analysis of new federal data released by the Associated General Contractors of America on May 22, 2026. Texas added the most construction jobs, adding approximately 18,700 jobs, followed by North Carolina, Ohio, Louisiana, Illinois and Missouri. Louisiana had the largest percentage gain in the span of 12 months. “It’s encouraging to see construction employment increasing in many parts of the country,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. In April 2026, Florida added the most…
Read MoreNAHB analyzes remodeling market demographics
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) analyzed data from the Consumer Expenditure Survey and revealed which demographics are fueling the remodeling market. Married-couple households remain the dominant force in remodeling, accounting for the majority of both projects and spending. The Consumer Expenditure Survey examined remodeling spending in 2024, when an estimated $670 billion was spent on remodeling projects. Approximately 20 million households, nearly one-quarter of owner-occupied homes, undertook home improvements ranging from large additions and major renovations to smaller alterations and upgrades. Families with children, particularly those with kids…
Read MoreRemodel of the Week: Story Hill Renovations
Story Hill Renovations modernized a 1930s Tudor home, while still preserving its historic charm. The whole home remodel began with the first floor, which was fully renovated to support the client’s empty-nester lifestyle. The goal was to improve flow, accessibility and everyday comfort. The renovator replaced the existing peninsula with a central island, converting the sunroom into a light-filled dining space and introducing a layout ideal for entertaining. Historic materials and details anchor the space, including black-and-white checkered flooring, red oak custom inset cabinetry and a classic subway tile backsplash.…
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