Remodeling to Add Value To Your Home
- katiefrench4
- Jul 14
- 5 min read
What is in and what is out. Current remodeling trends.
Homework is your go-to resource for design, build, and remodel inspiration! If you’re looking to increase your home’s value, remodeling key areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and basement can deliver impressive returns. These spaces are not only essential for every day living but area also major selling points for potential buyers and can greatly increase your home's value before a sale.
Why remodel and improve your home?
Increase Home Value: Renovations can boost your property’s market value and appeal to potential buyers.
Improve Functionality: Remodeling allows you to reconfigure spaces to better suit your needs and lifestyle.
Enhance Comfort: Updates can make your living environment more comfortable and enjoyable.
Energy Efficiency: New windows, insulation, and appliances can reduce utility costs and environmental impact.
Modernize Style: Upgrades refresh the look and feel of your home, keeping it up-to-date with current trends.
Fix Safety Issues: Remodeling can address outdated electrical systems, plumbing, or structural concerns.
Accommodate Life Changes: Create space for a growing family, aging in place, or a home office.
Personalization: Tailor your home to your tastes, preferences, and daily habits.
Reduce Maintenance: New materials and finishes often require less upkeep and last longer.
What offers the biggest value to remodel bathrooms?
Remodeling a bathroom is a smart investment that can significantly enhance both the comfort and value of your home. An updated bathroom not only improves everyday functionality and aesthetics, but it can also address long-standing issues like poor layout, outdated fixtures, or water damage. Modernizing your bathroom allows you to incorporate energy-efficient features, increase storage, and create a relaxing, spa-like environment tailored to your personal style. Additionally, a bathroom remodel can boost your home’s resale value, making it more appealing to potential buyers and ensuring a strong return on investment.
1. Vanity & Sink Area:
In: Floating vanities, quartz or solid surface countertops, integrated sinks, and sleek, minimalist hardware.
Out: Bulky cabinets, vessel sinks, and overly ornate details.
2. Shower & Bath:
In: Walk-in, curbless showers with frameless glass, large-format tiles, rainfall showerheads, and built-in niches or benches. Freestanding soaking tubs are also popular when space allows.
Out: Standard alcove tubs with shower curtains, small tiles with heavy grout lines, and whirlpool tubs (they are high maintenance and less energy efficient).
3. Lighting:
In: Layered lighting—recessed lights, LED mirrors, and decorative sconces. Warm, natural-looking light is preferred.
Out: Single overhead fixtures, fluorescent lighting, and dated Hollywood vanity bulbs.
4. Flooring:
In: Large-format porcelain tile, natural stone, luxury vinyl, and even heated floors for added comfort.
Out: Linoleum, basic ceramic tile, or carpet.
5. Storage:
In: Recessed medicine cabinets, built-in shelves, and open shelving for a clean look.
Out: Over-the-toilet shelving units and cluttered countertops.
6. Color Palette:
In: Soft, neutral tones (whites, beiges, grays), earthy shades, and nature-inspired accents.
Out: Busy patterns, bold primary colors, or overly bright and dated wallpaper.
7. Fixtures & Finishes:
In: Matte black, brushed gold, and mixed metal finishes for faucets and hardware.
Out: Shiny brass or chrome everywhere.
8. Toilets:
In: Low-flow, water-saving models, wall-hung toilets, and bidet features.
Out: Basic models with high water usage.
Kitchen
Remodeling a kitchen can dramatically enhance both the functionality and value of your home. Upgrading to modern cabinetry, durable countertops, energy-efficient appliances, and updated lighting creates a more inviting and efficient space for cooking and entertaining. A fresh kitchen design not only reflects your personal style but also makes daily routines easier, improves storage, and appeals to future buyers.
1. Cabinets:
In: Full-height cabinets, shaker or flat-front doors, soft-close hinges, open shelving, and two-tone color schemes (like dark lowers and light uppers).
Out: Ornate, raised-panel doors, short upper cabinets, and heavy wood finishes (like cherry or oak with red tones).
2. Countertops:
In: Quartz, quartzite, and other durable, low-maintenance surfaces; waterfall edges; and subtle veining.
Out: Tile countertops, basic laminate, and busy or speckled granite patterns.
3. Backsplashes:
In: Full-height slab backsplashes, large-format tiles, and simple, classic subway tile with unique layouts.
Out: Tiny mosaic tiles, short 4-inch backsplashes, and busy or dated tile patterns.
4. Appliances:
In: Energy-efficient, built-in appliances, panel-ready or matte finishes, and smart technology integration.
Out: Bisque, black, or white appliances, bulky microwaves above the range, and non-matching finishes.
5. Lighting:
In: Layered lighting with under-cabinet LEDs, statement pendants, recessed lights, and dimmers for flexibility.
Out: Single overhead fluorescent fixtures, small builder-grade pendants, or outdated track lighting.
6. Flooring:
In: Wide-plank engineered wood, luxury vinyl plank, large-format porcelain tile, and heated floors.
Out: Linoleum, small ceramic tiles with dark grout, and traditional vinyl sheet flooring.
7. Sinks & Faucets:
In: Deep, single-basin sinks (stainless, granite composite, or fireclay); touchless or pull-down faucets in matte black, brushed nickel, or brass.
Out: Double-bowl stainless sinks, standard chrome, and basic builder-grade faucets.
8. Islands & Storage:
In: Large multifunctional islands with seating, built-in charging stations, and hidden outlets; pull-out organizers and deep drawers.
Out: Small, nonfunctional islands and corner cabinets with wasted space.
9. Color Palette:
In: Warm neutrals, natural wood accents, rich but muted tones (deep green, navy, charcoal), and pops of color in a curated way.
Out: All-white everything, overly bright accent walls, and dated yellows or reds.
10. Hardware:
In: Sleek, modern pulls and handles in matte black, brushed gold, or mixed metals.
Out: Ornate or tiny hardware, or builder-basic knobs and pulls.
Basement
Remodeling a basement adds valuable living space and versatility to your home. By finishing the area with durable flooring, improved lighting, and flexible layouts, you can create a comfortable zone for entertaining, working, or relaxing. An updated basement not only increases your home’s usable square footage but also boosts property value and makes your space more inviting for family and guests.
1. Layout & Purpose:
In: Open, multifunctional spaces that can be adapted for media rooms, home offices, gyms, or guest suites. Dedicated zones for entertaining, working, and relaxing are popular.
Out: Dark, closed-off rooms with little flexibility, or unfinished “catch-all” storage spaces.
2. Flooring:
In: Luxury vinyl plank (LVP), engineered hardwood, stained concrete, and carpet tiles for warmth and durability. Waterproof and moisture-resistant materials are key.
Out: Old-school wall-to-wall carpet, basic linoleum, or unfinished concrete.
3. Lighting:
In: Recessed lighting, layered lighting with sconces or lamps, and larger egress windows for natural light.
Out: Single ceiling bulbs, fluorescent lighting, and dim, windowless spaces.
4. Walls & Ceilings:
In: Drywall with smooth finishes, painted in light, neutral colors. Feature walls with wood, stone, or modern wallpaper add style. Drop ceilings with clean lines or exposed, painted ceilings for a loft vibe.
Out: Wood paneling, popcorn ceilings, or dated drop ceilings with bulky tiles.
5. Storage Solutions:
In: Built-in shelving, under-stair storage, and custom closets to keep the space organized.
Out: Open shelving with clutter or basic freestanding racks.
6. Bathrooms:
In: Modern, full or half bathrooms with quality fixtures, walk-in showers, and good lighting.
Out: Basic, outdated powder rooms or unfinished bathroom spaces.
7. Bar & Entertaining Spaces:
In: Wet bars with beverage fridges, sleek cabinetry, and integrated seating.
Out: Oversized, dark wood bars or makeshift setups without plumbing.
8. Home Technology:
In: Built-in speakers, smart lighting, and wired high-speed internet for home theaters or offices.
Out: No tech integration or only basic cable wiring.
9. Comfort & Climate:
In: Proper insulation, dehumidifiers, and radiant floor heating for year-round comfort.
Out: Damp, chilly, or poorly insulated spaces.
10. Color Palette & Décor:
In: Light, bright colors, layered textures, and natural wood accents to keep the basement from feeling dark or cold.
Out: Dark, heavy colors or unfinished surfaces.
