News

Remodel of the Week: Vujovich Design Build

Vujovich Design Build remodeled a cramped and outdated kitchen inside a 1937 Minneapolis Home, preserving the historic charm while improving function and flow for everyday living. The interior design won first place in the Historic Renovation/Restoration (50 years or older) category for this project in the 2025 Midwest Design Awards and took thoughtful, creative measures to bring this kitchen into the present while still honoring its past.  Walls were opened to improve flow and select windows were closed to reclaim wall space for cabinetry. A walk-in pantry was added, concealed…

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Features expected to be more expensive in 2026

With increasing costs across the country and new tariffs on foreign goods prices of certain materials are expected to climb even more in 2025. These goods are expected to increase the most: lumber, cabinetry, windows and exterior doors, roofing and cladding, tiles and flooring. While the White House announced the delay of tariffs on furniture and kitchen cabinets until 2027, price of lumber is rising regardless and so is cabinetry. “Last year, we were notified by one of the largest cabinetry manufacturers that our price was going up by 9%…

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Five upcoming trends in home design

The American Society of Interior Designers released its 2026 Trends Outlook Report, highlighting the following five trends predicting home design.  According to the report, downsizing, co-living and co-housing, aging-in-place strategies and urban roommate models are gaining traction. This all corresponds to a preference for independent living meeting a desire for connection.  The report also observes climate extremes, rapid technological change and global climate as scenarios implementing the need for resilience and adaptability. This is reflected in increased sales of generators, backup batteries, security systems, gun safes and wildfire-resistant homes.  Other…

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Construction materials up 2.8% in 2025

According to a report from the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) construction input prices are 2.8% higher than a year ago. While input costs decreased  0.6% in December compared to the previous month, overall material prices increased. For example material prices of copper wire and cable increased 4.6% in December, reportedly up 22% year over year.  This includes primary nonferrous metal prices up 62% over the past year. “Prices for commodities less exposed to tariffs, like asphalt or crushed stone, will likely remain tame in the coming months due to…

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Kitchen design is getting a makeover

The new year is bringing in a new set of trends for kitchen design. While homeowners’ taste in interior design is ever-changing, the desire for timeless functionality remains. From statement appliances to expressive details, this guide provides an in-depth look into 2026’s kitchen design trends.  While hardwood flooring will forever be a kitchen staple, warm and textured stone might see the limelight in 2026.  “Kitchens in 2026 are reclaiming the artistry of tile, from the soft whisper of tumbled limestone to the vibrant symphony of mixed-stone mosaics,” said designer Richard…

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The most popular remodeling projects in 2025

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) surveys professional remodelers every quarter. The answers are compiled to produce the NAHB/Westlake Royal Remodeling Market Index (RMI). This survey provides insight into the current and future confidence of remodelers. Alongside this NAHB asks a special set of questions on their current topic of interest. In Q4 they surveyed the frequency of 22 remodeling projects on a scale of 1-5. In 2025, remodelers indicated that bathrooms were the most common project.  73% of remodelers surveyed rated it common to very common (4 or…

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A guide to 2026 remodeling trends

The 2026 home renovation market requires smart investing against a rise in energy costs and strict building codes, with remodeling trends focusing on efficiency over anything else. Energy efficiency in homes is no longer an upgrade, but a must-have feature in home designs, as homeowners are now seeking home improvements that pay for themselves in lower monthly bills. Home remodeling in 2026 is about creating value that lasts, and the upcoming remodeling trends reflect just that.  Smart home systems are becoming standard in remodels. Technology such as AI-powered thermostats and…

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2026 Kitchen remodeling trends

Houzz announced its 2026 Kitchen Trends Study, surveying over 1,800 homeowners to discover emerging kitchen remodeling trends. According to the report, a majority of homeowners are changing their kitchen style in the renovation, with the transitional style still the top choice.  In a shift from previous years, white cabinets are losing their spark as the most sought-after cabinet color. Wood tones have surpassed in popularity, with medium wood tones becoming the next trend, followed by light and dark tones. Neutral color palettes such as an off-white or soft cream are…

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Why minerals matter in roofing systems

Minerals play a key role in the performance of roofing materials. According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, asphalt shingles remain the most widely used roofing material in the U.S., at about 80%. In the asphalt shingles contain a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and surfaced with mineral granules. The mineral granules protect from UV expose which can lead to higher rates of deterioration. Choosing the correct roofing materials for the local climate is important, asphalt shingles also provide a resistance to weather including hail and are naturally fire resistant. The…

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Global remodeling market on the rise

The global remodeling market is on track for substantial growth, expected to rise from $973.37 billion in 2025 to $1.02 trillion in 2026, driven by a 5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). Factors contributing to this growth include increased residential renovation spending, early adoption of smart home upgrades, as well as heightened demand for aesthetic improvements and professional services.  By 2030, the market is projected to reach $1.24 trillion, thanks to a greater emphasis on sustainable retrofits, energy-efficient materials and expanding commercial renovation ventures. Trends anticipated in the future include…

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