A new home study, conducted between January and March 2026, offers insights from more than 20,000 U.S. respondents into home renovation trends for construction and design professionals, as well as homeowners looking to begin a renovation project. The study found that, despite economic uncertainty, home renovation budget costs continue to remain steady and are actually rising in certain parts of the U.S. “Home renovation continues at historic levels, even as homeowners take a more cautious approach to future projects,” says Marine Sargsyan, head of economic research at Houzz. Among all…
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Renovators are strategic upgrades
Home renovators are looking for upgrades to enhance their quality of life now and boost their home’s resale value in the future. While most homeowners are choosing to remodel rather than relocate, renovators are still selecting home upgrades that increase property value. Minor kitchen remodels recoup up to 83% of their cost, making them one of the most popular investments for current owners. Homeowners are becoming strategic when undergoing a renovation project. According to the Journal of Light Construction’s Remodeling 2025 Cost vs Value Report, minor kitchen remodels recoup up…
Read MoreTop 5 renovation trends in 2026
Homeowners are investing in renovations now more than ever, with remodeling projects rising steadily across the nation as homeowners prioritize comfort, functionality and long-term value. As the middle of the year approaches, overall renovation trends in 2026 have pointed towards smarter and more sustainable upgrades that are tailored to everyday lifestyles. Smart home integration has been a popular integration in remodels. Homeowners are prioritizing centralized control over lighting, security, climate and appliances through unified platforms. As environmental awareness grows, so does the demand for eco-conscious building materials in remodels. With…
Read MoreChicago backyard upgrades elevate livability
In Chicago, homeowners are thinking about how their backyard is used day-to-day, making the goal of a renovation project to restructure the space without compromising daily functionality. Chicago-based advisor Joe Freeman shared clients’ driving decisions when considering a backyard remodel and the top upgrades emerging in backyard design. The data showed that 62% of Chicago residents prioritize relaxation in their backyard design, while 38% want more time with friends and family and 31% are thinking about home value. Landscaping was the most popular upgrade, followed by outdoor seating, raised garden…
Read MoreBathroom designs shift toward wellness-inspired layout
New bathroom trends are defined by warmth and character. Clients want refreshing and reimagined bathroom spaces that will support their way of living for years to come. Designer Melanie Boyden noted that bathroom layouts are leaning more towards smarter, serene features in wellness-inspired design. Blue-and-white Delft-style tiles scattered playfully across the backsplash of a project offer a playful, dainty flair to the space. This is another trend that is expected to become popular throughout the remainder of the year. Unlike the bold, large-scale cement tiles that made waves in years…
Read MoreSmall enhancements to elevate bathroom remodels
Small bathroom enhancements can turn a cramped area into a stylish and functional space during a renovation. Utilizing smart storage solutions, as well as paint, tile, wallpaper and lighting can enhance a bathroom’s design. Consider giving a compact powder room in an older home a sense of grandeur with patterned wallpaper. Adding a mirror on the far wall of a smaller, more narrow bathroom can double the perception of space and bounce light around. Bring color into the project by adding a colorful sink. Softer, earth-toned colors can warm up…
Read MoreHomeowners want these features in their backyard renovation
The backyard is where homeowners have the option to spend time relaxing, entertaining, exercising, gardening and bonding with loved ones. According to a new study by Alan’s Factory Outlet, 77% of homeowners are planning a backyard upgrade in 2026 and they have their eyes on certain features for their renovated yards. The study found that landscaping and aesthetics were the top backyard priority, cited by 62% of homeowners surveyed. New sods, privacy shrubs, rocks, lights, flower boxes and edging can enhance a project. Meanwhile, 48% of homeowners have outdoor seating…
Read MoreEye-catching kitchen design trends
In 2026, kitchen design is all about blending beauty with purpose: Warm minimalism, mixed materials and layouts that not only work for everyday living, but also elevate it. From statement islands to hidden storage and bold yet balanced color palettes, today’s kitchen renovations are evolving into spaces that feel both elevated and lived-in. A wall of pale wood cabinetry with barely-there hardware and clean, uninterrupted lines creates a calming visual rhythm in kitchen design. This trend leans heavily into simplicity, but not the cold kind. Natural wood tones soften the…
Read MoreExterior renovations require balance for a lasting look
Home renovation designs require careful planning and execution to ensure that exterior designs will have a lasting, beautiful and sustainable impact on a client’s home. For example, leaving a brick exterior as it is, instead of painting over it, will allow the exterior to age gracefully and balance with nature. While painting over a project might have a fresher presentation, it can risk moisture being trapped beneath the brick. “Brick, on its own, ages gracefully and tolerates Mother Nature much better without paint on the surface,” said Tyler Hull, Founder…
Read MoreBathroom remodels shift to color and smart technology
When it comes to bathroom designs during a remodel, two things are most prominent. First, all white bathrooms are out; color is in. Second, smart technology is being embedded in bathrooms. According to data from Grand View Research, the market for smart technology, specifically smart showers, is expected to expand by 11.7% from 2023 to 2030. The idea behind this rising trend is that integrating digital technology into a shower’s plumbing systems can provide a client with a catered, spa-like experience, making it a modern bathroom upgrade that combines form…
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