Home remodeling touches all of us at some point of home ownership whether it involves a quick one-room ‘make-over’ or an entire house, remodeling has become an endearing pastime. As a result, industry experts have tracked some important trends that remodelers should pay attention to when approaching a home project based on a study by NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry).

Home Design – Home factors such as universal design* and  whole house accessibility throughout the lifetime of the occupant. Aging in place improvements that helped maintain quality of life especially pertaining to kitchen and bath.

Adopting a long-term view when it comes to home design will protect your quality of life as you age when accessibility becomes an issue. Designing wider door openings and hallways, sensors that make the home accessible and useful to everyone are just a few ways to embrace universal design.

Project Features – Incorporating energy savings and efficiencies, replacing tubs with larger, walk-in showers (although soaking tubs are popular). Partial kitchen upgrades include countertops and tile floors while high quality, luxury products are sought out that also feature low maintenance and durability.

As for kitchen and bath remodeling Millennials have been found to invest 42% more in remodeling their bathrooms and 17% more in transforming their kitchens compared to other age groups based on a study conducted by NKBA (National Kitchen+Bath Association). For more kitchen and bath trends please refer to Top 10 Kitchen Trends for 2016, Futuristic Bath Trends.

Energy Saving – Better lighting such as sustainability LED lighting and energy-saving devices and appliances drive the desire for a low-maintenance and highly efficient home.

Smart Technology – Remodeling gives opportunity for spending on smart systems according to Houzz. Smart home security/safety systems topped the list followed by new/updated features such as smart entertainment upgrades, new technology for smart lighting and climate control.

Whether your remodeling project is small or large, taking the time to consider these trends will ensure years of return on your investment!

Please visit Architectural Digest to view the full gallery of images from the home renovation project featured.

*Universal Design: the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. (Sheryl Burgstahler, Ph.D)