The primary driver of bathroom remodels is homeowners’ desire for luxury bathrooms. Interior designers and architects weighed in, sharing what bathroom features homeowners are prioritizing to achieve that luxurious bathroom design. Modern free-standing tubs can open up the space and reflect the look of a luxury resort bathroom. Interior designer Jessica Risko Smith said that pairing a free-standing tub with light wood flooring and crisp white walls can instantly modernize a bathroom. Architect Colleen Healey boldly suggests adding a skylight into the bathroom to bring in natural light. Warm woods,…
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Construction employment up 64,000 jobs nationwide
Data and analysis on construction employment indicate the sector remains stronger now than this time last year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment posted gains in June, with a majority of states gaining jobs. Of the regions, Texas reported the largest numerical increase at 5,200 jobs, but percentage-wise, New Mexico recorded a+3.2% jump. California faced the sharpest numerical decline of 4,100, while Montana fell 1.6%. “Year-over-year, construction employment increased by 64,000 jobs nationwide, a 0.8% gain compared to June 2025. Texas led all states with an increase of…
Read MoreInterior designers predict 2027 renovation trends
As we pass the 2026 midyear mark, interior designers are already predicting the style shifts and upcoming trends for 2027. According to these interior designers, the biggest shifts are less about one particular style and more about creating homes with greater intention and with consideration for the future. At the same time, rooms are becoming more flexible and personalized, reflecting how families actually gather, entertain and move throughout their spaces. Wellness has been a popular priority throughout 2026 and it looks like that is not about to change anytime soon…
Read MoreRemodeling spending expected to slow down
According to new data from Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, annual spending on home improvements and repairs is expected to slow down until mid-2027. The latest Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) suggests this will lead to a third straight quarter of decelerating year-over-year growth, with spending projected to be $519 billion through mid-2027. “Growth in remodeling permitting and retail spending on building products has flattened recently, suggesting that renovation activity is cooling,” said Rachel Bogardus Drew, Director of the Remodeling Futures Program at the Center. “Reduced housing…
Read MoreHome accessibility upgrades fuel renovation boom
Home accessibility modifications are driving a renovation boom as homeowners bring multiple generations of family under one roof. Instead of a simple kitchen refresh, clients are prioritizing grab bars, wider doorways and walk-in showers that serve toddlers and elders alike. The most requested upgrades tend to focus on the rooms where families spend the most time and where safety risks run highest, including curb-less walk-in showers, wider doorways, lever-style doorknobs instead of round knobs and lighting improvements. Multigenerational household renovation has become common as more families choose to combine resources…
Read MoreRemodel of the Week: Bailey Design + Build
In this Louisville, Kentucky, home remodel, Bailey Design + Build transformed the home’s outdoor space into a personal retreat, adhering to the homeowners’ vision while breaking boundaries in a backyard renovation. The project’s main objectives were to increase privacy from neighborhoods, add more shade, add premium appliances that enhanced the clients’ desired outdoor living lifestyle and create a warm atmosphere by integrating inviting textures. The remodeler integrated a bar and dining area beneath a custom standing seam metal roof, blending practical coverage with a polished look. Privacy screens were softened…
Read MoreRemodeling trends prioritize balance
Home renovation and design trends for 2026 are shaping the biggest home renovation projects by seamlessly blending modern and traditional styles, with a strong focus on practicality and aesthetics across key areas of the home. Many homeowners choose to upgrade their homes with energy-efficient features, bold colors and natural wood paneling, creating a balanced decor style that feels both timeless and current. Overall, the biggest design trend is not focused on a single aesthetic but on balance and ensuring the home meets the clients’ long-term needs. More homeowners are prioritizing…
Read MoreJCHS study points to massive repair demand
New analysis of the American Housing Survey (AHS) from the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS) indicates that homeowners struggle to maintain their aging homes. As the nation’s housing stock sits at an average of 42 years old, home maintenance is necessary to keep residences comfortable and functional. As 29% of low-income homeowners live in houses built before 1960, the maintenance repairs often required of older homes, such as roofing, siding, windows, insulation and HVAC, are more costly than cosmetic remodeling. “Regardless of building age, higher-income homeowners consistently outspend…
Read MorePending home sales soften in June
According to the National Association of REALTORS® Pending Home Sales report, pending home sales in June decreased by 5.4% month-over-month and 0.3% year-over-year. However, at the local level, several markets posted notable year-over-year gains in pending home sales. Among the 50 largest metro areas, 10 markets posted large annual increases in pending home sales. The Pending Home Sales Index is a leading indicator for the housing sector, based on pending sales of existing homes. NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said that elevated mortgage rates and home prices are driving factors…
Read MoreContractor confidence rises as backlog falls
A new reading from the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) reported that its Construction Backlog Indicator fell to 8.8 months in June. Also, ABC’s Construction Confidence Index readings posted increases in sales and staffing levels for the month. Construction Backlog Indicator is down 0.3 months from May but up 0.1 months from June 2025. While readings for profit margins declined, all three components remain above 50, leading industry expectations for continued growth. “The effect of rising input prices may be weighing on contractor profitability,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. “Contractor…
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