D.R. Domenichini Construction, in partnership with Studio 38 Designs, received a 2022 Regional Contractor of the Year (CotY) Award from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry for a full home renovation in Morgan Hill, California. The project, which fell in the $250,000 to $500,000 category, reimagined a dated floor plan into an open-concept layout ideal for entertaining. Updates included the removal of a load-bearing wall, expanded sightlines, and layered lighting—blending bold color accents with warm wood textures to bring character and cohesion throughout the home. The homeowners, known for…
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Q1 2025 NKBA/ John Burns Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI)
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) offers the Certified Remodeler (CR) designation to professionals with proven experience and knowledge in the remodeling industry. This credential signifies that a remodeler has mastered both the technical and business sides of the trade, from building codes and project management to financial planning and ethical practices. To qualify, candidates must have at least five years of continuous experience and complete 16 hours of continuing education. The certification process includes a comprehensive examination that evaluates knowledge across multiple remodeling disciplines. NARI also offers…
Read MoreBehind the Scenes: Unveiling the Judging Secrets of the NKBA
The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Design Competition evaluates entries based on several core criteria: creativity, presentation, design planning, adherence to NKBA Planning Guidelines (4th Edition), elements and principles of design, safety and ergonomics, and the overall “wow” factor. Judges, including NKBA-certified designers and industry professionals, spend approximately 15 minutes per entry, providing valuable feedback and numerical scores. This feedback is essential for entrants, helping them understand their strengths and areas for improvement. According to NKBA, “The NKBA Design Competition is a rigorous process that demands excellence in every…
Read MoreNARI’s Certified Remodeler Program Sets Industry Standard for Remodeling Professionals
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) offers the Certified Remodeler (CR) designation to experienced remodeling professionals who demonstrate comprehensive expertise in both technical and business aspects of the industry. This certification signifies a remodeler’s proficiency in managing full-scale remodeling operations, including sound business practices, financial oversight, marketing strategies, building code compliance, job site evaluation, and green remodeling techniques. To be eligible, candidates must have at least five years of continuous experience in the remodeling field, be employed by or own a firm with at least 90% of its…
Read MoreMarch Private Residential Construction Spending Dips
In March 2025, private residential construction spending in the U.S. declined by 0.4%, marking the end of a five-month growth streak. This downturn was primarily driven by a 1.2% decrease in home improvement expenditures, reflecting subdued remodeling activity in the first quarter. Despite this monthly dip, overall spending remained 2.8% higher than in March 2024, indicating some resilience in the housing market. Single-family construction spending saw a modest 0.1% increase for the month but was still 0.8% lower compared to the previous year. Multifamily construction spending remained flat in March…
Read MoreRemodel of the Week: Ruby Hills, Pleasanton, California
MSK Design Build undertook a comprehensive renovation of a 1997 executive home in Ruby Hill, Pleasanton, California, transforming it into a modern luxury residence. The clients, a professional couple with two children, aimed to replace the outdated pink-and-floral interior with a contemporary design suitable for both family living and entertaining. Key objectives included creating an open-plan kitchen and great room, converting a formal dining room into an elegant bar and games area, and replacing a powder room with a wine room featuring a waterfall. The design team, led by Kelly…
Read MoreResidential Building Worker Wage Growth Slows Amid Softer Labor Market
Wage growth for residential building workers slowed in March 2025, reflecting a softening in the construction labor market, Wage growth for residential building workers slowed in March 2025, reflecting a softening in the construction labor market, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Average hourly earnings rose to $38.76, a 4.5% increase from the previous year—down from a peak of 9.3% year-over-year growth in June 2024. The decline points to easing pandemic-related labor shortages and a shift in according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Average hourly earnings…
Read MoreHome Depot Releases May 2025 Pro Forecast Outlook
Home Depot’s May 2025 Pro Forecast highlights ongoing supply chain constraints and heightened demand as key drivers behind rising material costs, particularly for lumber and steel. These pressures are expected to continue affecting budgets and timelines across the construction and remodeling industries. The company advises contractors and builders to stay informed on price trends and adapt procurement strategies accordingly. To support professionals facing these challenges, Home Depot is expanding its distribution infrastructure. New distribution centers are slated to open in Detroit, southern Los Angeles, San Antonio and Toronto, aiming to…
Read MoreImproving America’s Housing 2025
The Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies’ 2025 report, Improving America’s Housing, highlights a significant surge in home improvement and repair spending, which soared to $611 billion in 2022—a 51% increase from $404 billion in 2019. Although there was a slight decline of 0.3% in 2023, expenditures remained substantially higher than pre-pandemic levels. This sustained investment is attributed to factors such as increased home equity, the aging housing stock, and the shift toward remote work, prompting homeowners to adapt their living spaces to new needs. The report anticipates that remodeling…
Read MoreFrom Tile to Toilets, Home Renovation Costs to Rise as New Tariffs Take Effect
Home renovation costs are poised to rise significantly due to new tariffs implemented by the Trump administration, as reported by USA TODAY. These tariffs affect a wide range of imported materials and products commonly used in home improvement projects, including items like marble, tiles, and appliances. Industry professionals have already observed price increases and supply chain disruptions, leading to project delays and cancellations. For instance, Kevin Twitty, a designer based in Portland, Oregon, noted a 25% increase in renovation costs and mentioned that some clients are pausing their projects due…
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