SoftPlan Systems, Inc. has released an update to SoftPlan 2026 that includes new AI rendering functionality. With a single click of the mouse, SoftPlan’s AI Enhanced Render tool uses AI processing to turn any simple 3D model into a stunning, realistic rendering. SoftPlan’s latest innovation, AI Enhanced Render, can create photorealistic visuals from basic 3D concepts in minutes. Once an exterior or interior view is selected for processing, SoftPlan’s AI analyzes the lighting and materials of the design model and then generates a beautiful, lifelike image that includes complex elements…
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Kitchen remodels shift towards longevity and efficiency
Kitchen remodels are drifting away from being aesthetically impressive for a moment and more towards being built for everyday work life in 2026. Homeowners researching Kitchen Remodeling are looking past dramatic finishes and focusing on layouts, materials and planning methods for daily efficiency. Kitchens are being designed with long-term use in mind, reflecting a growing understanding that a kitchen is not a showroom, but one of the hardest-working rooms in the home. The most noticeable shift in 2026 kitchen renovation design is the move away from decorative excess. Oversized islands,…
Read MoreConstruction employment stalls in December
A recently released report from the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) reported that construction job growth was limited in an estimated more than half of all metro areas. Their report cites that construction employment throughout 2025 remained stable in only 55 metro areas and declined in 129 metro areas. The largest construction employment losses were in the Las Vegas (-11 percent), New York City (-8 percent) and Riverside ( -7 percent). While the largest increase was in Washington (12 percent), Kansas City (9 percent) and Arlington ( 6 percent).…
Read More2026 Construction Outlook
Construction activity is expected to stay strong heading into 2026, with data centers, manufacturing and infrastructure projects leading the way. Contractors are still dealing with high material costs, labor shortages and tariffs, but the new tax law may offer some relief to the construction industry. Economic conditions are showing signs of improvement, though many construction companies are still facing higher costs and tighter margins. For reference, prices are rising at about 3% per year, much lower than the spikes in 2022, but still above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. In…
Read MoreFive renovation trends taking over 2026
Designers are already starting to pinpoint renovation design trends set to take over homes in 2026. Features like in-home gyms and saunas are on the rise, while cooler stones and tiles are being replaced with rich hues and seamless stone. Open concept layouts will be left behind in 2025 and will be replaced by more defined spaces. “As people spend more time at home, the appeal of more traditional floor plans with spaces that are separated for visual and sound privacy has become very evident,” said Peter Miles, architect and…
Read MoreWhat’s limiting American construction productivity
The downward trend of productivity falling in the U.S. construction industry fell 30% between 1970 and 2024, while overall labor productivity more than doubled. A report from leading investment banking, securities, and asset and wealth management firm Goldman Sachs explains why the U.S. construction industry is trailing behind countries’ construction industries. One reason Goldman Sachs attributes to the trend is the limited gains in industry innovation. They cited that most construction materials and tools first originated in the 1950s. The industry has yet to fully take advantage of recent technologies…
Read MoreRemodel 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…
Read MoreFeatures 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%…
Read MoreFive 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…
Read MoreConstruction 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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