Now that Spring is here, homeowners across the nation are gathering home improvement ideas to enhance the interior and exterior of their properties. We’ve researched and scoured the best websites to bring you the trends you’ll fall in love with. Read on for inspiration for your next project.
Budget Your Home Renovation First
When it comes to remodeling, you’re going to need a budget. Smaller upgrades like painting, minor landscaping, and DIY projects are the easiest to pay for out of pocket. But if you’re looking at major projects – consider getting a cash-out refinance. That’s probably the cheapest money available.
And before you start planning, keep this in mind:
Any renovations that require additional roofing or foundation are more costly. Stay within your current footprint, floorplan, and square footage, and you’ll save money. However, that’s not always possible for larger projects like room additions or a second story.
Kitchens Still Top the List
Every year and 2022 is no different – the kitchen remodel reigns supreme as the number one room homeowners want to renovate. Unlike other rooms where you can make a difference with paint and new furniture, it doesn’t work with a kitchen. Unless you’re just replacing a sink or countertop, a kitchen renovation can take the longest and is one of the costliest.
What should you tackle first? Dated cabinets that scream the 80s, 90s, and 2000s are just depressing. Here’s a money-saving tip – if you have good solid wood cabinets, you might consider having them painted rather than replaced.
You’ll need a professional who uses high-quality cabinet paint and has a shop where they can spray the drawers and doors.
Compare the cost of painting vs. replacement. It may or may not be worth it.
Best Resources for Kitchen Remodel Ideas
- Martha Stewart doesn’t disappoint with her article about kitchen cabinet trends, including some surprising color choices you won’t want to miss.
- Backsplash has the latest ideas of how a backsplash can make a statement. From classic marble to colorful ceramic tiles and ever-popular white subway tiles.
- The Spruce goes over the top ten countertop choices from granite to soapstone and marble and more. Plus, you’ll get a good idea of what will work for your home, along with the pros and cons of each material.
- Houzz has the top ten faucet trends with great images for kitchens and baths for 2022. You’ll see the different sizes and finishes and be amazed at the variety of choices.
- ApartmentTherapy highlights farmhouse-style sinks and shows the top four sink designs making a splash this year.
Bathroom Upgrades Continue Their Popularity
Second, only to the kitchen remodel is the bathroom. Let’s explore some trends and resources.
Bathtubs and showers keep getting better, deeper, and more luxurious. If you don’t have much space, you may still be able to install a deep-soak tub for a fun upgrade. If you have a larger bathroom, consider the all-in-one shower and tub with a modern twist of an enclosed larger space.
- Decorilla does a beautiful job highlighting options for various size bathrooms. You’ll find plenty of inspiration, including deep-soak tubs, both modern and traditional.
- CountryLiving has a montage of more traditional bathroom trends that go well with some of the beautiful older homes in the Midwest. They also include modern spa designs that provide homeowners a much-needed sanctuary.
Flooring Makes a Big Difference
Let’s talk about flooring. Compared to years ago when we carpeted our entire home, now we carpet single rooms. In 2022, most homeowners will be willing to pay a higher price for top quality. And with new technology, there are more choices, including vibrant colors and patterns to choose from.
- LivingEtc lists 11 incredible examples of wall-to-wall carpeting you’ll fall in love with. From bright colors to natural fiber rugs and bold patterns – floorcovering now takes center stage.
- ArchitecturesIdeas makes a statement covering 14 flooring trends. You’ll see the latest offerings, from hardwood planks to parquet and patterns. The article also covers budget, practicality, maintenance, and more, which will help you select the best product for your needs.
Open Space vs. Self-Space
2022 brought with it a new debate. Which is better – a modern open space design or more individual spaces offering privacy away from the rest of the house?
Personal needs are changing, and so is the way Americans are living. BuzzFeed has a lively article worth reading announcing the “Death of Open Floorplans.” It goes over one of the most significant changes we’ve seen over the last few years – much more time at home.
Although most homeowners still prefer the open floor plan, some want private spaces. The good news is that you can create dedicated spaces with room dividers, bookcases, and well-placed furniture without having to go through an entire renovation.
Add Peace & Calming with a Home Office
If you’re working from home – even a few days a week – having a dedicated office space is a must. Consider converting the attic or basement to an office hideaway. And you can always have it double as a guest room if needed. If you’re not seeing clients, the location can be anywhere.
Short on space but have a large lot? Consider a tiny house. TinyHeirloom has an excellent article about the backyard office. And although you can’t get a mortgage for a tiny home, you can get a conventional cash-out refinance on your primary residence and pull out enough cash to build a tiny office as long as you have equity.
Basements Transition to Greatness
If you live in the Midwest and deal with tornados, you know how vital a basement is. Rather than let it go neglected as a sad laundry room or dusty storage area, consider these top uses for your basement:
- SebringDesignBuild shares some fantastic ideas, including a guest suite that can compete with a luxury hotel, a sports room decked out with a bar, a big-screen TV, a pool table, or a home office tucked away that’s perfect for concentrating.
- HomeAndGardens have unique basement renovation ideas, including how important it is to have the space well-lit. Whether you have access to natural light or need strategically placed lighting, you’ll get some great tips.
Outdoor Entertainment Areas
One of the ways to expand your space is to upgrade your back and side yards.
- Polywood has an impressive article jam-packed with unique ideas for taking advantage of the space you have outdoors. In addition to a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, consider an outdoor living room, a vertical garden, or even office space.
- TheSpruce delivers once again in their article about porch and patio upgrades. One crucial element they go over is seasonality and planning the right design. Firepits are still popular, as are luxury upgrades.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this compilation of the latest spring home renovation trends and tips for 2022. And if you need financing, be sure to contact the team at Homestead Financial Mortgage.