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Exploring Biophilic Design: More Than Just Bringing Nature Indoors

Biophilic design has gained traction in recent years as people seek ways to reconnect with nature in their built environments. However, it’s important to understand that biophilic design goes beyond simply adding a few houseplants to your space. It’s a holistic approach to design that aims to foster a deep connection with nature through various elements incorporated into the design and materials used.

What is Biophilic Design?

Biophilic design is about creating environments that mimic nature’s patterns, forms, and processes. The term “biophilia” refers to the innate human connection to nature. Biophilic design harnesses this connection by incorporating elements such as natural light, vegetation, water features, and organic materials into architectural and interior spaces.

Direct Experiences with Nature

One aspect of biophilic design involves incorporating direct experiences with nature into the built environment. This can be achieved through the use of natural materials such as wood, stone, and clay, which not only bring elements of the outdoors inside but also create a sense of warmth and authenticity. Integrating live plants into the design further enhances this connection, bringing the soothing presence of greenery into our living spaces. Additionally, features like natural lighting, flowing water elements, and even fireplaces can evoke a sense of being immersed in nature, promoting relaxation and well-being.

Indirect Experiences Through Representations

Biophilic design also encompasses indirect experiences with nature, which can be achieved through representations of natural elements in the design. This includes using color schemes inspired by nature, such as calming blues, earthy greens, and warm browns, which evoke feelings of tranquility and connection to the outdoors. Artwork that depicts natural scenes or motifs can also help to bring the outside world indoors, while materials that mimic natural textures, like marble or stone-effect tiles and countertops, further blur the lines between the built environment and the natural world.

Creating Spaces of Refuge and Relaxation

Another key aspect of biophilic design is the creation of spaces that provide refuge and relaxation, allowing occupants to escape the stresses of modern life and recharge in a natural setting. This can involve designing cozy nooks or seating areas surrounded by greenery, or incorporating elements like natural water features or views of greenery through windows and openings. By prioritizing the integration of these natural elements into the design, biophilic spaces can promote mental clarity, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.

Looking Beyond the Interior

It’s important to note that biophilic design isn’t limited to what’s inside a space – it also considers the natural spaces that can be seen through windows and openings. Whether it’s a lush garden, a serene woodland, or a breathtaking mountain view, the ability to connect with these natural landscapes from within the comfort of our homes can have a profound impact on our mood and mindset.

Overall, biophilic design offers a holistic approach to creating spaces that promote well-being and connection with nature. By incorporating direct and indirect experiences with nature, creating spaces of refuge and relaxation, and considering the natural surroundings beyond the interior, biophilic design has the power to transform our built environments into havens of tranquility and inspiration. Need inspiration? Give Lenton Company a call to discuss transforming your living space into a retreat with style and serenity.

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Six Strategies for Positive Transformation in the Remodeling Journey

Embarking on a home remodeling project is a thrilling adventure that holds the promise of turning your living space into a sanctuary of comfort and style. Amidst the joy of envisioning your dream home, it’s essential to acknowledge the allure of enhancements and the desire to elevate the project scope. Explore the positive aspects of incorporating new ideas during the design and construction phases, ensuring a rewarding and fulfilling remodeling experience.

As your home transformation unfolds, it’s only natural to be inspired by evolving trends, innovative technologies, and fresh design concepts. The excitement of upgrading fixtures, materials, and adding thoughtful features can be invigorating, contributing to an ever-evolving vision of your ideal living space.

Rather than viewing changes as obstacles, consider them as opportunities for adaptive planning. By embracing flexibility within the remodeling process, homeowners can integrate upgrades seamlessly, enriching the project without compromising its integrity.

1. Collaborative Planning:

Engage in collaborative planning with your contractor to ensure that the evolving vision aligns with the overall project goals. This creates a foundation for shared enthusiasm and creativity.

2. Empowerment through Prioritization:

Identify and prioritize features that resonate most with your vision. By acknowledging your must-haves, you empower yourself to make informed decisions that align with your evolving preferences.

3. Open Communication:

Maintain open channels of communication with your contractor. Engage in regular discussions about potential upgrades, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and shared enthusiasm for positive change.

4. Budgeting for Enrichment:

Allocate a budget specifically for enhancements and upgrades. This proactive approach allows for the inclusion of new ideas while ensuring financial responsibility and control.

5. Documentation for Clarity:

Document all changes formally, including updated plans, budgets, and timelines. This not only ensures clarity but also provides a tangible record of the positive transformations woven into your remodeling journey.

6. Celebrate Flexibility:

Embrace the positive side of flexibility. As your vision evolves, welcome the exciting journey of transformation, recognizing that each upgrade contributes to the creation of a more personalized and enriching living space.

The journey of home remodeling is a dynamic and evolving experience, marked by positive transformations that elevate your living space. Changes can be reframed as a celebration of the evolving possibilities within the remodeling journey. The chance to refine and enhance your project is an opportunity to create a home that truly reflects your evolving tastes and desires. If 2024 marks the beginning of your remodeling adventure, give Lenton Company a call today, and we’ll guide you through every step of the process.

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The Art of Whole House Makeovers

Embarking on a whole house makeover is a thrilling endeavor that goes beyond mere renovation—it’s a journey of transformation. Whether you’ve recently acquired a property that needs a complete overhaul or you’re looking to breathe new life into your existing home, a whole house makeover offers the opportunity to reimagine your living spaces. In this blog post, we’ll explore the magic of whole house makeovers and how they can redefine the way you experience your home.

Vision and Planning:

The first step in a whole house makeover is envisioning the desired outcome. What themes, styles, and functionalities do you want to incorporate? Collaborate with design professionals to translate your ideas into a comprehensive plan. Consider the overall flow of your home, identifying key areas for improvement.

Holistic Design Approach:

Unlike individual room renovations, a whole house makeover involves a holistic design approach. Cohesiveness across spaces is key. This could involve selecting a consistent color palette, flooring, or design elements that tie each room together. The aim is to create a unified, seamless aesthetic that enhances the overall ambiance of your home.

Functional Upgrades:

Beyond aesthetics, consider the functionality of each space. Modernizing kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances, revamping bathrooms for increased efficiency, safety and planning for future accessibility, and optimizing storage solutions throughout the home are common goals. A whole house makeover allows for a comprehensive assessment and enhancement of the functionality of every nook and cranny.

Technological Integration:

Embrace the conveniences of modern technology in your whole house makeover. Smart home systems, energy-efficient appliances, and automated features can elevate your living experience. Integration of these technologies not only enhances daily life but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of your home.

Embracing Trends and Timelessness:

Strike a balance between incorporating current design trends and creating a timeless appeal. While trendy elements can infuse freshness into your home, opting for timeless features ensures that your makeover withstands the test of time. This balance ensures a lasting aesthetic that remains relevant for years to come.

Budgeting and Project Management:

Undertaking a whole house makeover requires meticulous budgeting and project management. Work closely with professionals to establish a realistic budget and timeline. Factor in unforeseen circumstances and make contingency plans to ensure a smooth and stress-free renovation process.

A whole house makeover is more than a renovation; it’s a journey of self-expression and transformation. Whether you’re revitalizing a dated home or personalizing a new space, the key lies in careful planning, creative vision, and collaborating with experienced professionals. At Lenton Company, our designers and build team expertise guides you through the planning and execution phases, ensuring that your vision is brought to life with precision and quality craftsmanship. As you embark on this exciting endeavor, envision the lifestyle you want to achieve then watch as your living spaces become a true reflection of your dreams and aspirations.

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Deck the Halls: A Guide to Preparing Your Home for the Holidays

The festive season is upon us, and that means it’s time to transform your living space into a warm and welcoming haven for holiday cheer. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings, dinner parties, or overnight guests, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your home is ready for the festivities to come.

1. Clean and Declutter.

Start your holiday preparations with a clean slate. Declutter your living spaces, dust off neglected surfaces, and vacuum those hard-to-reach corners. A tidy home not only looks more inviting but also provides a fresh canvas for festive decorations.

2. Decorate with Purpose.

Embrace the spirit of the season by adorning your home with festive decorations. Whether you prefer traditional red and green or a more modern aesthetic, choose a theme that resonates with you. Consider incorporating twinkling lights, wreaths, and garlands to infuse your space with holiday magic.

3. Set the Table in Style.

If you’re hosting holiday meals, pay special attention to your dining area. Invest in table linens, elegant dinnerware, and decorative centerpieces to create a memorable dining experience. Consider adding personal touches like place cards or themed napkin rings for an extra dash of charm.

4. Cozy Up Your Space.

Make your home a cozy retreat from the seasonal chill by adding soft blankets, plush pillows, and warm throws to your seating areas. Create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to relax and enjoy the holiday festivities.

5. Prepare the Guest Room.

If you’re expecting overnight guests, ensure your guest room is a comfortable retreat. Freshen up bedding, provide extra blankets, and stock up on essentials like toiletries and towels. Consider adding a festive touch with holiday-themed accents to share the spirit with your guests.

6. Stock Up on Supplies.

Be well-prepared for holiday entertaining by stocking up on essential supplies. Check your pantry for baking ingredients, refresh your spice rack, and ensure you have ample beverages on hand. Having a well-stocked kitchen simplifies hosting gatherings and impromptu celebrations.

7. Create a Welcoming Entrance.

Set the tone for festive celebrations right from the entrance. Hang a wreath on your front door, add twinkling lights, and place a festive doormat to welcome guests with holiday cheer. A warm and inviting entrance creates a positive first impression for visitors.

8. Plan for Entertainment.

Prepare for holiday gatherings with a plan for entertainment. Create playlists with your favorite holiday tunes, have a selection of board games or activities on hand, and consider setting up a cozy nook for reading or watching holiday movies.

9. Safety First.

With decorations and additional activities, safety is paramount. Ensure that walkways are well-lit and clear of obstacles. Double-check your holiday lights for any frayed wires and follow safety guidelines when using candles or other open flames.

10. Embrace the Spirit of Giving.

Finally, remember that the holidays are a time for giving. Consider incorporating charitable activities into your holiday preparations, such as donating to a local food bank or participating in a gift drive for those in need.

Should you discover a checklist of home maintenance and repair tasks that need attention before your guests’ arrival, consider reaching out to Lenton Company’s Bob Jobs division for assistance at 661.273.9179. Introduced earlier this year, Bob Jobs is the ideal solution for handling handyman tasks and individual projects. Let us know if we can help to make sure your home is a haven of warmth, joy, and holiday spirit. Here’s to a season brimming with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments!

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Baby Boomers Lead in Renovation Activity for 2023

Home renovation is a significant aspect of homeownership, and it’s always interesting to see how trends evolve over time. In 2022, more homeowners than ever before were focused on long-term living in their homes rather than selling in the near future. Renovation activity was in full swing, and kitchens and bathrooms were the star attractions. That trend continues for 2023 with a few surprising twists.

Staying Put: A Long-Term Approach

Last year, a whopping 61% of homeowners revealed their intention to stay in their homes for 11 years or more following their renovations. This marks a significant shift as the share of homeowners planning to sell their homes soon dropped by half since 2018, with only 6% of homeowners considering this option, compared to 12% in 2018.

Renovation Activity Is Boomingt

Similar to last year, homeowners are actively engaged in improving their living spaces, with nearly 3 in 5 undertaking remodeling (58%) or decorating (57%) projects. Additionally, nearly half of homeowners focused on necessary repairs. The median expenditure for home renovations nationwide last year was $22,000, while those in the top 10% of spend invested a considerable $140,000 or more. The momentum continues with over 55% of homeowners planning renovation projects in the near future.

Kitchens and Bathrooms Take Center Stage

When it comes to renovation, interior spaces are the top choice for homeowners. Notably, homeowners tackled on average nearly three interior projects simultaneously. Kitchen and bathroom remodels remain the most popular projects. Kitchens and primary bathrooms also command the highest median spend.

Professionals Are in Demand

Since last year, homeowners have increasingly turned to construction professionals and designers for their renovation needs. While specialty service providers were the most frequently hired (46%), construction professionals, such as general contractors and kitchen or bathroom remodelers, were a close second at 44%. The percentage of homeowners relying on construction professionals grew by 6 points compared to the previous year, as did the share relying on design-related professionals like Lenton Company, which increased from 20% in 2021 to 26% in 2022.

Baby Boomers Lead the Way

The baby boomer generation continues to be at the forefront of renovation activity, with 6 in 10 homeowners belonging to this age group. They were followed by Gen Xers (27%) and Millennials (9%). Interestingly, Gen Xers surpassed baby boomers in terms of median spending for the first time last year.

Aging Homes Call for System Upgrades

As the median age of homes in the United States continues to increase, homeowners are increasingly focusing on improving their home systems. In 2022, nearly 3 in 10 homeowners opted for plumbing upgrades, while electrical and home automation upgrades were close behind. Electrical upgrades, in particular, gained traction increasing by 4 percentage points after remaining stable at 24% for two years. Among typical home system upgrades, cooling and heating systems commanded the highest median spends, and were undertaken by more than 1 in 5 renovating homeowners.

Overall, the trend continues for homeowners who demonstrate a clear preference for long-term living in their renovated spaces. Renovation activity remains robust, with kitchens and bathrooms taking center stage. The hiring of construction and design professionals also saw a significant uptick. As homes age, homeowners are addressing crucial system upgrades to ensure their living spaces remain safe and efficient. These trends offer insights into the evolving priorities and preferences of homeowners, as well as the booming industry of home renovation. What can Lenton Company’s design-build professionals do for your home? Give us a call at 661.273.9179 and let’s start a conversation.

Source: 2023 U.S. Houzz & Home Study: Renovation Trends

Research Study: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/2023-u-s-houzz-and-home-study-renovation-trends-stsetivw-vs~166887998

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10 Tips For Your First Remodeling Project

Embarking on your first home remodeling project is an exciting yet challenging endeavor. Whether you’re looking to update a single room or tackle a complete home makeover, careful planning and preparation are key to ensuring a successful outcome. Here we share 10 valuable tips to guide you through your inaugural home remodeling journey.

1. Set a Clear Budget

Before diving into any remodeling project, establish a clear but realistic budget. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and allocate funds for various aspects of the renovation. That includes materials, labor, and unexpected expenses. Having a well-defined budget will help you make informed decisions throughout the project.

2. Prioritize Your Needs vs. Wants

Make a list of your priorities. What are the must-haves, and what are the nice-to-haves? This helps you stay focused on what matters most and prevents you from overspending on non-essential items.

3. Research and Plan Thoroughly

Invest time in researching design ideas, materials, and potential contractors. Create a detailed project plan that includes a timeline, design sketches, and a list of necessary permits. The more prepared you are, the smoother the process will be.

4. Choose Reliable Contractors

Selecting the right contractor is crucial. Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors, and check online reviews. When interviewing a contractor, ask for a quote, find out how long they have been in business, and verify their licenses and insurance. Choose professionals who are experienced in the type of remodeling project you’re undertaking.

5. Obtain the Necessary Permits

Depending on the scope of your project, you may need permits from the local government. Check with your municipality to ensure you’re in compliance with all regulations and obtain the required permits before starting any work. If you hire a general contractor, they take this headache away from you by handling all permits.

6. Stay Flexible

Home remodeling projects can be unpredictable. Be prepared for unexpected issues or delays. Having a contingency fund in your budget can help you handle unforeseen expenses without derailing your project.

7. Communicate Effectively

Maintain open and clear communication with your contractor. Regularly discuss project progress, timelines, and any concerns. Effective communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that your vision is realized.

8. Don’t Skimp on Quality

While it’s important to stick to your budget, avoid cutting corners on quality materials and workmanship. Investing in high-quality materials and skilled labor pays off in the long run by increasing your home’s value and longevity.

9. Prepare for Temporary Disruptions

Home remodeling can be disruptive to your daily life. Prepare for temporary inconveniences, such as limited access to certain areas of your home or increased dust and noise. Make temporary living arrangements, if necessary.

10. Enjoy the Process

And, finally, remember to enjoy the process! Home remodeling can be a transformative and rewarding experience. Embrace the challenges and enjoy the process of transforming your home into a more functional and beautiful space that reflects your personal style and preferences.

Thinking about a kitchen remodel? Be sure to download the complimentary Kitchen Remodeling Checklist found on the home page of LentonCompany.com. Then be sure to watch the short video series covering all major decisions you’ll need to make. You’ll find expert guidance on everything from plans to counter tops and cabinets, storage, and lighting choices. There’s even a video explaining the all-important kitchen triangle.

Lenton Company is here to help bring your vision to life. As a third-generation, family-owned company, our team has been designing, building, and remodeling life-changing spaces since 1984. Give us a call at 661.273.9179 if you are ready to start a conversation.

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Turning Adversity into Advantage

A small house fire can be a harrowing experience, leaving homeowners feeling overwhelmed and distressed. The silver lining is that every challenge can present an opportunity. Surprisingly, an unfortunate incident can serve as a turning point to transform what was once a dated and ordinary space into a modern and stylish oasis.

Once the immediate concerns have been addressed and the area deemed safe, homeowners can harness the power of renewal through a thoughtful remodeling process. Collaborating with skilled contractors and design professionals is an essential step in this process, as their expertise helps navigate the challenges of restoration and modernization.

One of the most significant advantages of remodeling after a room fire is the opportunity to update and upgrade while embracing modern design elements. Outdated fixtures and materials can be replaced with contemporary alternatives that not only enhance the room’s aesthetics but also contribute to its overall functionality. Homeowners can explore innovative technology, integrating smart lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and state-of-the-art ventilation systems to create an efficient living space.

A room fire can prompt homeowners to reconsider the room’s layout and organization. As walls are repaired and floors replaced, the space becomes a blank canvas for creativity. By optimizing the layout, homeowners can maximize the room’s potential, ensuring that every inch is utilized effectively to create a spacious and functional environment.

Revamping the room’s aesthetic appeal is another exciting aspect of the remodeling process. Homeowners can experiment with color palettes, textures, and decor to create a unique ambiance that reflects their personal style.

While a house fire may be a setback, it can also serve as a stepping stone toward a brighter and more stylish future. The remodeling process offers homeowners the chance to embrace change, optimize functionality, and craft a space that resonates with their unique preferences. By collaborating with Lenton Company’s design/build/remodel experts, homeowners can turn a challenging situation into an opportunity for renewal to create a modern and inviting sanctuary.

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How to Ready Your Home for the Holidays

Are you hosting for the holidays with guests set to stay over? As you look around your home wishing you had signed a remodeling contract months ago, don’t despair. There’s still time to make small changes to ready your home before guests arrive. Here’s a timeline we’ve adapted from Real Simple magazine, while adding a few of our own approaches into the mix.

Five Weeks Out

Time to focus on the guest room and accommodations if overnight guests are expected. Be sure there’s open storage for company to use during their stay. Update any bedding or window treatments that have seen better days. Make sure an outlet is visible and add extra charging cords or a power strip for your guests’ devices to recharge.

Four Weeks Out

There’s no better way to help your entire home feel clean and welcoming than a fresh coat of paint in a few key areas. Add surprising paint colors or vibrant patterned wallpaper if you’ve been wanting a bold change. If a simple refresh suits your style, a new coat of paint in the same color will do the trick. Our team of craftsmen can help with painting or papering, just give us a call.

Three Weeks Out

Time to inspect your light fixtures, especially in the guest room, living room, and entryway. If anything looks rusted, cracked, or dated, now’s the time to purchase and install new lighting options.

Two Weeks Out

Now starts the fun part. Update decorative accessories by adding plants, new rugs, and throws to your space. These small updates are low-cost but can have high impact helping you dress your home up. If you haven’t already – because you were busy decluttering, painting, and installing new lighting – now’s your chance to add seasonal décor. Lenton Company Pro Tip: Festive throw pillow covers are a great way to help your current pillows look refreshed and celebratory, without the need to buy whole new pillows.

One Week Out

Almost there and now is the time to clear away all the remaining clutter that piles up daily. Dust corners, clean windows, and your home is certain to sparkle and shine.

If you were planning a kitchen, bath, or multi-room remodel before guests arrived but put it on the back burner, we would love to help put your plans in motion in time for next year’s celebrations.

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Architecture as Art: The American Craftsman

At the turn of the 20th century, two architect brothers – Charles and Henry Greene – worked together in Pasadena, California to create what is known as Craftsman homes. The brothers were influenced by the English Arts & Crafts movement, which was a push back to the Industrial Revolution by promoting the work of skilled craftsman over machine made goods. Another influence was Oriental wooden architecture, popular in the day. Available as kit homes and in pattern books, craftsman bungalows became the most popular style of small house from about 1905 through the 1920s. Today, they are a treasure worth restoration.

External Features

The outside of a Craftsman home is easily recognizable by some standard features. A low-pitched, gabled roof reflects the Oriental architecture influence on the style. These rooflines typically have a wide, unenclosed eave overhang with decorative supports. The front porch area extends the livable space of small homes making it comfortable to spend time outdoors.

Columns, whether tapered or double, are another distinctive characteristic that support the overhang. A partially paned door with glass panes in the upper third of the door and separated from the bottom paneled portion by a thick piece of trim is another authentic look. Multipaned windows are another featured detail. The most common configurations are either four-over-one or six-over-one double-hung windows.

Earthy Colors and Mixed Materials

A nature-inspired palette of browns and greens helps the low-profile bungalows blend seamlessly with their surroundings. One or two contrasting colors are typically used to highlight architectural features like trim or decorative supports. Craftsman homes almost always feature a mix of materials: clapboard or shingled siding with the porch piers and foundations often made of stone, brick, concrete block, or stucco.

Indoor Spaces

As you might expect, inside living spaces reflect the warmth and comfort of natural woods and a variety of textures and details. Since the homes were typically constructed as bungalows, simple, wide-open layouts make the most of limited square footage.

Inspiration Leads to Renovation

While not every home has the basic structure to transform into a Craftsman, there are features that can be introduced inside and out to mimic the classic California vibe.

Instead of a front porch, consider adding a patio cover in the back of the house to serve the same purpose of extending living spaces with the benefit of privacy. Plan a mix of materials and textures to replicate the earthiness of nature and use contrasting paint colors to highlight details. Introduce glass panes and stained glass in cabinetry to give an artistic ambiance.

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Invest in Improvements on Trend for 2022

The 2022 U.S. Houzz & Home Survey released earlier this summer. According to Houzz, the data reveals that not only did renovation budgets grow in 2021, but project scopes also expanded. For the purpose of their study, recent homeowners are defined as those who have not yet moved into their home or moved in less than a year ago. Short-term owners moved into their home one to five years ago. Long-term homeowners moved into their home six or more years ago.

Renovation Activity & Spend Hit 4-Year High

Home renovation activity and spending are at the highest rates reported since 2018. More than half of homeowners (55%) renovated in 2021, up from 53% in 2020 and 54% in both 2019 and 2018. Following 15% growth in median renovation spend in 2020, homeowners reported an additional 20% jump in 2021 median spend, which now stands at $18,000.

Planned Renovation Spending Increases Year Over Year

More than half of homeowners (55%) plan to renovate in 2022, and nearly half (46%) plan to decorate. For the first time since 2018, homeowners’ planned spending has increased. The median has been $10,000 for the past three years and is now $15,000, a 50% jump.

Recent Homebuyers Spend Double the National Median Spend

Recent homebuyers, who account for 10% of renovating homeowners, spent nearly double the median ($30,000) in 2021, surpassing the median spend for short-term and long-term homeowners ($19,000 and $15,000, respectively). Recent homebuyers with higher-budget projects (the top 10% of spend) invested $175,000, compared with $100,000 for short-term homeowners and $90,000 for long-term homeowners. This higher spending limit potentially can be attributed to the number of projects recent homebuyers undertake at a single time. They are averaging three to four rooms, as well as home systems such as electrical and plumbing.

Investment in Interior Rooms Rises

The median spending increased for all interior room renovations in 2021. The kitchen, which remains the most popular interior room to be upgraded and is the room with the highest spend, saw an increase in investment of 25% ($15,000 in 2021 versus $12,000 in 2020). Interior rooms with the most dramatic spend increase are guest bathrooms (38%), laundry rooms (33%), living rooms (33%) and guest bedrooms (28%).

Other findings include homeowners exploring alternative funding sources – use of cash declined 7 points while financing with credit cards increased 6 points. Another area of investment increase was on outdoor security system upgrades.

Source: 2022 U.S. Houzz & Home Study: Renovation Trends