Whether designing an exterior renovation to add to a client’s long-term livability or boost a project’s curb appeal for resale, the following are expert-recommended exterior home upgrades. The garage door takes up a significant portion of the facade of a project, so naturally, its design should reflect aesthetic and functionality. A garage door replacement will have the biggest impact on curb appeal and resale value. A porch renovation is another efficient way to boost curb appeal. “Updating (an) old rotting wood front porch is a great way to add both…
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Real Home Trend is Redefining Renovation Design
Today’s homeowners are moving away from picture-perfect decorating toward spaces that tell a story when remodeling. Instead of matching sets and untouched surfaces, clients are looking to embrace layered rooms filled with meaningful items designed to reflect their daily lives, otherwise known as the ‘real home’ trend. “A real home feels layered, lived-in and deeply personal,” said designer Mimi Meacham. “It tells the story of the people who live there. You see the books they actually read, the art they’ve collected over time, the heirlooms, the kids’ projects and the…
Read MoreRemodel of the Week: Alex Yeske Interiors
Alex Yeske Interiors renovated a 1939 Californian Home and gave it new life with a layered, English-inspired glow. The goal was to preserve the home’s historic charm while introducing British-inspired layers, soft lighting and a calm, garden-led palette. “We wanted our work to feel like it had both always been there and could stand the test of time for many years to come,” said Yeske. Completed in just over eight months, the most transformative decision in the project was also the simplest, by removing almost all overhead lighting. In the…
Read MoreBathroom remodeling trends embody spa-inspired comfort
One of the most notable bathroom remodeling trends in 2026 is the shift toward spa-inspired bathroom environments. Clients are increasingly investing in personalized bathroom design that incorporates calming layouts, premium materials and modern lighting to create relaxing, resort-style spaces within their homes. “Homeowners are looking for more than just functionality—they want luxury and comfort,” said Kevin Ward, owner of Signature Bath Studio. “A well-designed bathroom can become a personal retreat while also adding significant value to the home.” Freestanding tubs, soaking tubs, and walk-in models are becoming popular choices among…
Read MoreFunctionality becomes the main trend in kitchen remodels
The most popular trend in kitchen remodels is not based on aesthetic or “what’s in,” but rather one primary focus: How to elevate the functionality of one of the most used rooms in the home. Kitchen renovations are being done with long-term functionality in mind. Elizabeth Valkovics, the founding principal of Batten Court Design, said clients are looking for timeless design paired with durable materials and fixtures, like honed quartzite, solid oak cabinetry and unlacquered brass. “We are seeing a rise in holistic design that considers the layout, improved lighting,…
Read MoreAging housing signals future remodeling market growth
An analysis from the National Association of Home Builders showed that the U.S. owner-occupied housing stock has aged measurably, particularly since the Great Recession, as residential construction has consistently fallen short of demand, contributing to a persistent housing shortage. According to the latest data from the 2024 American Community Survey (ACS), the median age of owner-occupied homes has reached 42 years old. As a result, the aging housing stock opens the door for a future growing remodeling market. Older homes tend to be less energy-efficient than newly-built, modernized houses and are…
Read MoreWhy are open concept floor plans so popular?
Open concept floor plans are often the go-to choice for many homeowners today because it matches the pace of modern living. Remodeling company, Empirical Construction cites that family lifestyles today are much more open for entertainment and less formal. Open-concept floor plans allow for ease in movement and more natural light, supporting connections across the kitchen, living and dining spaces. The rise of indoor-outdoor living also supports the trend, with the average home size decreasing the backyard becomes an additional living and entertainment area. “An open floor plan also creates…
Read MoreBathroom remodel trends highlight luxury and functionality
Homeowners in Paramus, N.J., are increasingly investing in high-end, detail-oriented Bathroom Remodel projects that emphasize both luxury and long-term functionality. Designers and experts at Bergen Bath Studio highlight how bathroom design preferences in Paramus are setting themselves apart in 2026. “Paramus homeowners typically look for a more customized and upscale finish in their bathroom renovations,” said Bob Clark, owner of Bergen Bath Studio. “There’s a strong focus on both design detail and long-term durability.” Another notable trend in Paramus is the growing demand for premium Bathtub Installation options. Clients are increasingly…
Read MoreLos Angeles design team shares bathroom remodeling tips
Love Home Renovations, a home design and remodeling company based in Los Angeles, Calif., shares their best practices when to approach bathroom remodeling. The most important considerations before any design work begins is communicating with your client on their lifestyle. While some may be basing renovations on aesthetic purposes, the functionality of the space should come first. Changing the floorplan can completely change a space, however additional costs like structural engineers, rerouting plumbing, electrical work and permitting need to be weighed and communicated properly. Setting realistic expectations before the bathroom…
Read MoreRemodel of the Week: Steve Gray Renovations
Steve Gray Renovations’ clients found a lot that they were absolutely in love with, but the 1950s Sears Home that came with it was not quite what they envisioned. Its original footprint was 1800 square feet, with a small, walk-out basement. The beautiful 3 1/2 acre lot in Zionsville, Ind. offered good schools, a great community and a tranquil, tree-filled setting for a dream home opportunity. The renovation company worked with conceptual designer Gary Nance to re-envision the original home’s foundation and incorporate it into a home renovation plan that would…
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