Homeowners are spending a median of $9,000 on bathroom renovations, which is 13% higher than last year, a new study finds. These are their favorite trends.

Homeowners are spending more money to spruce up their bathrooms as the pandemic-fueled home renovation boom continues. The national median spend for bathroom renovations jumped nearly 13% year over year to $9,000, according to the 2022 U.S. Houzz Bathroom Trends Study(link is external), a survey of more than 2,500 homeowners who are planning or recently completed a bathroom renovation.

“Bathrooms have always been a top room to renovate, and we’re seeing that homeowners—driven both by aesthetic desires and functional necessities—are doubling down on their investment in these private sanctuaries,” says Marine Sargsyan, a staff economist at Houzz, a home improvement website. “While the cost of products and materials has increased due to inflation and supply chain disruptions, renovation activity remains strong, propped up by high home equity and homeowners’ desire to stay put given limited housing supply.”

Homeowners who viewed their bathrooms as “outdated” were most likely to renovate them. The Houzz study uncovered some of the following trends in bathroom remodeling this year:

1. © Rachel Loewen – Houzz The statement vanity: More than three-quarters of homeowners surveyed upgraded their vanity cabinets during a bathroom renovation. “Homeowners are turning vanities into a focal point as one of the few areas of the bathroom to offer a splash of color,” the survey notes. Three in 10 homeowners chose wood or gray, followed by blue (14%), black (5%) and green (2%). Also, with vanity upgrades, engineered quartz was a top choice as a countertop material (40%), followed by natural stones like quartzite (19%), marble (18%) and granite (16%). As for door styles, shaker continues to dominate, followed by flat- and raised-panel doors. Bar pulls are the most popular vanity door handles.
2. Upgrading home systems: More homeowners are updating behind-the-scenes items in their bathroom remodel. For example, 59% of homeowners said they upgraded their ventilation system when renovating their bathroom; 14% upgraded to radiant heating; and 9% added a tankless water heater. “The increase in upgrades to home systems can add up to some of the highest costs but remains one of the most frequent enhancements to the bathroom this year,” the report notes.
3. All about the transitional: Nearly nine in 10 homeowners surveyed chose to change their bathroom’s style during a renovation. Transitional style has taken a significant lead, followed by modern and contemporary. Transitional styles offer a combination of traditional and modern elements, combining modern fixtures with antiques, for example.
4. White still dominates: White continues to be the most popular color for bathrooms across vanities, countertops and walls. Gray walls are popular both outside and inside the shower, but blue is also gaining traction. One in 10 homeowners selected blue walls outside the shower, the report notes. “Upgraded bathroom elements are gravitating towards solid colors, as multicolored countertops and shower walls have decreased in popularity among homeowners,” according to the Houzz report.
5. Showers remain a priority: When tackling bathroom renovations, homeowners continue to prioritize the shower as a focal point. Increasing the shower size is the second-most popular bathroom upgrade. For homeowners who remove the bathtub, nearly four in five opt to enlarge the shower, making it at least 25% bigger. More homeowners are relocating their showers after having a bathtub removed.
6. Greenery everywhere: More homeowners are adding greenery when renovating their bathrooms. “The overwhelming majority say it adds to the aesthetics of the room, while a smaller majority believe it creates a calming environment,” the report notes. “Practical benefits are also noted among renovating homeowners, including air purification, odor-fighting ability and antibacterial attributes.”
7. The high-tech commode: Nearly two in five homeowners also added high-tech features to their toilets. The report notes significant increases in bidets, self-cleaning elements, heated seats and built-in night lights.
    

Pricing a Bathroom Renovation

A recent study from House Method, a resource on housing providers, found that 71% of homeowners have built equity in their home through a home renovation over the last year. Bathrooms are one spot owners are targeting for some of the highest returns on investment, according to House Method’s report, Cost of a Bathroom Remodel in 2022(link is external). The study found that midrange bathroom remodeling projects have an average ROI rate of 70%, while upscale renovations fetch 60%.

Bathroom remodels can be costly, however. What should homeowners expect to pay? The following charts from House Method show the average costs of popular bathroom renovation projects.

Image by 5460160 from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

New trends in kitchen islands offer versatility in function and design, as well as an aesthetic boost.

You may remember when the kitchen’s status symbol was a hulking appliance like a six-burner range or a smaller but still chichi wine refrigerator. These statement pieces enhanced a kitchen and set it apart from others.

Nowadays, though, islands are taking the place as the kitchen must-have. Buyers might not consider it a deal killer if a kitchen has no island, but the house may not get the same attention, says salesperson Barb St. Amant with Atlanta Fine Homes, Sotheby’s International.

“It’s the number one design feature our clients ask for in a kitchen,” says John Potter, architect and partner at Morgante Wilson Architects in Chicago.

They might be trending now, but islands are hardly new. The difference today is that islands have evolved into an aesthetic touch and a space for gathering, rather than an area dedicated solely to kitchen tasks like chopping and prepping. “Kitchen islands can be gathering spots for the family for breakfast or the cocktail hangout spot when entertaining,” says Rozit Arditi, principal of New York City–based Arditi Design. “It’s also the main conversation area where everyone gathers while cooking,” she says.

Add to that a homework center, a space for gift wrapping, and a dinner spot as families become more casual, Potter says.

Such versatility means islands are now larger, which is in step with kitchens themselves getting bigger. Many kitchens today function as part of an open-plan layout and a bridge between the workspace and entertainment areas, says designer John Hall of JH Design International in Chagrin Falls, Ohio.

Sleek is in, which means many kitchens now lack upper cabinets. Still, a longer and wider kitchen island makes up the storage difference, says designer Jodi Swartz of KitchenVisions in Boston.

Bigger islands can also fit more seating. Although the pandemic didn’t initiate any changes in the island, it’s thought to have increased how often people congregate around it, says kitchen designer Mick De Giulio of de Giulio Kitchen Design in Chicago.

More than just the workhorse of the past, the kitchen island offers homeowners all kinds of new options, styles and uses, so long as it is designed functionally. Here are some considerations.

Size

The size should be based partly on the room’s dimensions so that the island is proportional to the space. How it’s used should also influence its size. Visually, there should be enough open space in the room, too. “Open space and flow are more important than having one more cabinet for storage,” says designer JT Norman of Kitchen Magic in Nazareth, Penn.

Suppose the kitchen space isn’t large enough. In that case, an alternative may be a peninsula, once popular and still a viable option, says designer Fabrice Garson of Bilotta Kitchen & Home in Mamaroneck, N.Y.

Placement

Where an island can fit in the room will also affect its size, says De Giulio. It shouldn’t be in the way of traffic to other rooms or other parts of the kitchen.

“If you have to walk around an island to get from a sink to a refrigerator each time, that doesn’t make sense,” De Giulio says. “I still believe in the principles of the work triangle,” he says, a concept formulated by the National Kitchen and Bath Association.

The amount of aisle space between the island and perimeter countertops and cabinetry is important, too. De Giulio advises 48 inches—enough space so that, with a dishwasher’s door open all the way, two people can pass easily.

Main Functions

When designers at Bilotta Kitchen & Home first meet with a client, they ask about the homeowner’s lifestyle and preferences and design around the answers, Garson says. Some islands may include more than one level to separate functions such as mixing drinks at a bar sink on an upper level or comfortably rolling out a pastry on a lower level. Appliances like a dishwasher or beverage cooler are also popular island options, says Michael Cox, principal with Foley & Cox in New York City.

Double Islands

Superlarge kitchens are increasingly designed with two smaller islands, rather than one enormous unit that is unwieldy to get around. Another selling point for two islands is that functions can be divided between them.

For example, De Giulio has designed one island for working and congregating and the other for setting out a buffet and serving, he says. Garson has designed one island for sitting and gathering, homework, and eating and a second with a sink and appliances—“a real workstation,” he says.

Seating

For comfortable seating, De Giulio prefers a standard 36-inch counter height rather than higher 42-inch bar height. “Many children find it hard to sit on a stool at that height,” he says. Norman advises leaving 24 inches between stools for elbow room.

One option that Hall is incorporating in some islands is to have a second seating area. A table can extend from the island at a lower 30-inch height for a comfortable option.

Cabinet Construction

For storage, De Giulio favors drawers. Heights within should vary to fit what’s stored. Deep drawers work for a large pot or blender, while shallow ones work for towels and silverware. Arditi suggests adding shelves to cabinets for cookbooks and staggered storage.

Countertop Materials

Swartz’s first rule of thumb is that homeowners understand that no material is 100% indestructible. That means they should not take anything hot off a range or from an oven and place it directly on any surface, including the island.

What’s popular now are manmade surfaces that look good and can be used with less worry, Garson says. Cox favors stress-free surfaces like absolute black granite and pure white Caesarstone. Some homeowners like to integrate a butcher block or live-edge, Garson says, while others may favor a marble space.

Multiple types of edges can complete the countertop. De Giulio thinks square edges look crisp and clean in a modern kitchen while an ogee or furniture edge appears more traditional. Other popular styles include eased, pencil, and bullnose.

Permanent or Removable

Some designers and homeowners prefer a table or other piece of furniture for a less utilitarian look. A movable trolley, for instance, can be wheeled about the room. “It makes the space flexible and accommodating,” Swartz says.

The downside of a table is that the island aspect becomes less practical, since it usually won’t have storage or be at the best height for multiple tasks. The problem with a mobile design is that islands tend to get heavy with stuff piled atop them, and then aren’t easy to move, De Giulio says.

Lighting

The familiar style of three pendant lights above an island has become almost a cliché. De Giulio now favors more linear, longer fixtures in metal or metal and wood that match the scale of the island. “They appear to float above the space,” he says. Cox likes to balance quality task lighting with a “killer decorative fixture for a central focal point,” he says.

BONUS: Mix and Match?

White kitchens still rank number one in popularity, according to surveys from online design and remodeling source Houzz(link is external). However, introducing another color or material differentiates an island and adds punch.

Garson finds that more than half of his clients now want a different material or color for the island than what they use around the perimeter.

Sandya Dandamudi, president of Chicago-based GI Stone, a supplier, fabricator and installer of custom stone, sees the mix-and-match look exploding. “Several of our clients select quartz counters for the perimeter, which includes around the sink and cooktop, and opt for an exotic natural stone for the island and backsplashes. This is a great way to combine practical needs and aesthetic tastes,” she says.

Will this multicolor look remain in vogue? “Short of white or cream, what isn’t trendy?” Swartz asks. “Cabinets are fashion. Some elements go out of style every 10 to 15 years. People should choose wisely and best match the feel of their home’s architecture,” she says.

De Giulio advises that homeowners base color choices on what looks best to their eye. “It depends on a room’s whole artistry,” he says.

Image by Ryan Doka from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

When moving in or remodeling, homeowners are wise to focus on the power of light to illuminate rooms, add decorative panache and color, pare energy consumption and improve safety.

Key Takeaways:

• Make lighting a priority rather than an afterthought in your renovation and redecorating plans.
• LED innovation has expanded considerably over the years, offering an affordable and energy efficient option for lighting.
• Add lighting in multiple layers for greatest functionality, aesthetics and mood making.

October is all about getting back to a routine and welcoming the crispness of fall. It sometimes serves as a reminder to dig into a home improvement project before winter sets in.

So much of the time, plans to decorate or fix up a home focus on big fun projects such as kitchens, bathrooms, paint palettes and furnishings. Other projects, like lighting, are often an afterthought.

“Lighting is often overlooked, yet it’s so important,” says Marina Case, principal designer at The Red Shutters in Hudson Valley, N.Y., and Martha’s Vineyard, Mass.

Choosing where to cut holes for recessed ceiling cans or install light switches in walls may seem ho-hum and boring, “but these decisions and others should be part of any plan because there’s so much new lighting technology to take advantage of,” Case says.

Technology isn’t the only reason to keep lighting at the forefront of design plans. Thoughtful light decisions made early on can both help save money and time and limit mistakes. For example, adding recessing cans to a ceiling after it’s been painted might require rewiring and repainting.

Getting Started

“Start thinking about your lighting design as early as you consider your overall vision for your home,” designer Avraham Mor, CEO of Chicago-area Morlights, advises. “Lighting has one of the most significant impacts on how your spaces come to life.”

Getting started might feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not accustomed to thinking about lighting, but a little preparation and help from the experts will make a big difference.

Do Your Homework and Make a Plan

Like many industries, the lighting space has changed to accommodate new technology, energy needs, and styles. Do a bit of research on what’s available. Consider your design preferences and how far you want to move into the technology space when it comes to lighting. Remember to also consider how much natural light a space gets, Mor says.

For research, a simple Google search will produce a long list of resources. You can also opt for one of the American Lighting Association’s(link is external) publications. The association offers a downloadable “Lighting Planning Guide” and its Lighting magazine, says executive vice president Larry Lauck. All manner of topics are covered, from lighting for aging eyes to remote controls for fixtures. You’ll also learn a host of key terms like “lumens,” “baffles” and “watts.”

Learn About LEDs

Even though they’re not new, the buzzword in the industry is still LEDs. The light emitting diodes are responsible for many improvements, including energy efficiency. In today’s market, they come in a range of colors and can be programmable. In many cases, they can be controlled from an app on a phone or by voice command.

“LEDs have been around for years but became more popular in late 2009 to 2010, when they replaced compact fluorescents,” Lauck says, adding, “Each year, they’re more sophisticated and better quality.”

Among their pros:

• They consume less energy. In fact, they’re so energy-efficient that the Department of Energy(link is external) announced plans this past April to phase incandescent and halogen bulbs out of production and sale in the U.S. before a ban takes effect next year.
• They cost less. After initially emerging as a pricey option, many LEDs cost about $1.50, down from $80 apiece in 2008, says Nathan Kipnis, a Chicago and Boulder, Colo.–based architect and expert on sustainability.
• They last longer. Lauck says he used to replace a porch light monthly and now expects its LED replacement to last 10 years. Joseph A. Rey-Barreau, lighting designer and associate professor at the University of Kentucky, says LEDs typically last from 10,000 to 50,000 hours of light. For maximum longevity, he says, “don’t skimp on quality.”
• They’re smaller. Let’s face it: Sometimes lightbulbs are a bit of an eyesore. A ceiling with recessed cans can have apertures of one inch in diameter—versus the standard five or six inches from years back—so it minimizes the look of holes in a ceiling, Rey-Barreau says. They also come in narrow, less visible “ropes” for all sorts of architectural applications, Lauck says.

Visit a Retail Showroom

Nothing compares to viewing lighting options in person. If you’re uninterested in a big-box store, showrooms can be found on the ALA website(link is external) by ZIP code; some have a lighting lab, which demonstrates products in vignettes that simulate rooms.

Even if a homeowner can’t visit a lab, experts at most showrooms are trained to demonstrate options. They can help most if homeowners bring specifics, such as a floor plan or rough sketch of the room in question. It’s even better if the measurements and placement of doors, windows (since natural light affects how artificial light looks) and furniture are sketched in, says Shawn Carstensen of Wolberg Lighting Design & Electrical Supply in Kingston, N.Y.

“I’ll ask what the function of the room is, how they want it to look, and what type of light they may want to see—a wide beam or crisp focus,” he says.

Develop a Lighting Plan

With a pro on board, a homeowner can have a lighting plan drawn up. “It’s less expensive to work from a plan rather than piecemeal and have someone come back multiple times or have to correct mistakes,” Lauck says.

When preparing a plan, architect Nicole Semple, principal with Chicago-based Kuklinski + Rappe, says she and colleagues focus on using LEDs, automation, dimming, and mixing light layers for maximum effect.

Case includes lighting suggestions in her plans and elevation drawings and then has her contractor or electrician fine-tune them based on the fixtures and bulbs that will work best in each room.

A homeowner’s age and physical challenges may also come into play. “If they are getting older and have poorer eyesight, they may want different lighting to illuminate a path to a bathroom at night or into a kitchen to grab a glass of water,” Lauck says. Wheelchair users may want switches at 48 inches above a floor rather than at 52 inches.

And then there are other decisions such as the choice of fixtures, baffles, lenses, and housings (the protective covers for cans) and the number of switches.

Considerations for The Project

Once the learning and planning is complete, it’s time to get the project started. There are still a few considerations to make in order to ensure you create the look and ambiance you want.

Hire a Pro

Even if a homeowner opts not to work with a retail store’s lighting professional, hiring an expert is a good idea. Some specialists work independently and are members of the ALA or International Association of Lighting Designers.(link is external)

“Who a homeowner goes with often depends on the members of their home improvement or decorating team, their budget, and the lighting they want,” Case says.

An electrician is necessary as well, as most electricians will check if they need to upgrade an electrical panel for more light. They’re also knowledgeable about the National Electrical Code and local building codes.

A homeowner should ask upfront about charges. Some showrooms may provide a consultation for free or for a fee that’s refunded with merchandise bought, says Rey-Barreau. An independent designer may charge by the hour or by the project. Some interior designers and architects include lighting ideas in their services.

The Rule of Three

The best plans feature a mix of three layers of light that work together to make rooms function and look great, says Rey-Barreau. “Some rooms may have more layers to offer the chance for a more custom look,” he says.

• Overall or general lighting illuminates a room and helps it come alive. If the room lacks natural light, artificial light becomes more important.
• Task lighting illuminates where work is performed—a computer screen in a home office, a mirror in a bathroom, or at a kitchen countertop, Lauck says.
• Ambient creates a specific mood—bright and perky, soft and romantic, or fun and colorful.

Color and Intensity

Homeowners may think of wattage equivalents first when choosing lighting, but that term refers to the energy a bulb puts forth. The Kelvin scale measures the temperature of the light and is important since light colors aren’t all white, off-white, or yellow. They should be matched to function and mood.

“A standard incandescent might be 2850 K and have a warm yellow glow. If you want white light for a bathroom and applying make-up, you might go with 3500 K,” Lauck says. You also might want a crisp white to enhance a kitchen when selling, says Chicago salesperson Jennifer Ames of Engel & Volkers.

For other moods, you might desire a bluer light, from 4000 K to 6000 K, Lauck says. The good news is that you can find a LED for any color of the rainbow.

Play Up the Source

While LED bulbs have gotten smaller, the fixtures are playing a more decorative role. There are a plethora of sconces, pendants, chandeliers, ceiling-mounted fixtures, table and floor lamps, and ceiling fans with lighting built in. Most come in multiple styles, shapes, materials, colors, textures, sizes and prices.

Los Angeles designer Christopher Grubb of Arch-Interiors calls decorative lighting the jewelry of a room. In one kitchen, he designed the crystals of the two chandeliers to sparkle like diamonds.

When It’s All Said and Done

Even if you haven’t made lighting a priority, it’s not too late to add or change it. “It’s just harder and more costly to make changes as a project gets to later phases,” Grubb says—or after it’s done.

Bear in mind the goal of achieving balance with lighting. If too many lights are on at once, the light can wash out important design elements and distort colors, Mor says.

But if you don’t have enough, you can’t turn on more light. That’s why Rey-Barreau likes to go with more fixtures and then use dimmers to give homeowners control when they want less light.

Image by Jesse Bridgewater from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

Sustainability is trending, especially among young buyers, and an aesthetically pleasing rain barrel offers cost savings and curb appeal.

Outfitting a house with a rain barrel does more than collect and conserve rainwater: It saves money, too. Well-placed rain barrels help cut utility costs by collecting free water for gardening, lawn watering or even washing the car. And homeowners are taking note.

“There has absolutely been an increase in the popularity of rain barrels in the last decade,” says Francesca Corra, a Los Angeles–based landscape designer(link is external). She says that drought and mandatory water restrictions have highlighted the need for water conservation in California.

A rain barrel might sound like a breeding ground for mosquitoes or a potential eyesore, but it’s surprisingly easy to maintain and to camouflage these cost-cutting green home features. Here’s what to know if your clients want to add a rain barrel or spruce up an existing rain barrel before a home resale.

Benefits of Rain Barrels

Interest in rain barrels is rising, but as with many green concepts, the learning curve is still vast. Real estate professionals have a unique advantage in educating clients who don’t know much about this affordable water conservation solution.

After all, says Corra, homeowners were once concerned that solar panels could detract from a home’s appeal. Now? Fifty-two percent(link is external) of American homeowners have already installed, or given serious thought to installing, solar panels.

Rain Barrels Conserve Water

“One of the most important things everyone should be looking at right now is ways to retain any rainwater that falls on our properties and not send it out into the street. Is one rain barrel the solution to our drought problem? No, it is not. However, it does help,” Corra says.

“I have easily saved at least 500 gallons of water so far this spring and summer,” says Laura Peet, a homeowner and gardener with two 50-gallon rain barrels on either side of her Charlottesville, Virginia, home. Though Virginia is far less prone to droughts than are desert regions in California or Arizona, Peet says the clay soil tends to dry out quickly.

Rain Barrels Keep Landscaping Lush

“Whatever amount [the rain barrel] keeps from going out into the street is water saved for the plants in the garden,” says Corra. “Trees, especially, will always need more water, and they are in danger right now as more and more people are turning off their irrigation.”

Peet uses rain barrel water to keep her raised vegetable gardens lush. Tracey Zeeck, a communications director(link is external) and homeowner outside Oklahoma City, also enjoys using her rain barrel as an accessible, above-ground water source for gardening.

“I think it’s fun to capture it and use it when you want to—free water!” Zeeck says, adding that her husband thinks the plants thrive more when watered with harvested rain versus chlorinated city water.

Rain Barrels Attract Eco-Conscious Buyers

There’s no denying that more and more clients care about going green.

Fifty-one percent of real estate professionals say their buyer clients are interested in sustainability, according to National Association of REALTORS® data. Twelve percent of homeowners cite green home features as a reason for purchasing their current home, and 10% consider “landscaping for energy conservation” to be “very important.”

Rain barrels can play a small but important role in sustainability and water conservation. Saving rainwater “creates an awareness that we are doing something to help our environment,” says Corra.

How to Prevent Problems With Rain Barrels

Conserving water is excellent, but homeowners also need to keep their rain barrels from becoming problematic. Breeding insects can quickly destroy the tranquility of a yard.

Here’s what experienced rain barrel owners suggest for maintenance.

• Drain water regularly. A rain barrel isn’t meant to hold water indefinitely, says Corra. “Identify areas with the most need—i.e., trees, vegetable gardens, potted plants—and let the water out within a few days of the rain,” she adds.
• Install a mesh screen on top. If a rain barrel does not arrive fitted with a fine mesh at the entry point, installing a screen or fine netting is vital to keep debris and mosquitoes out of the water.
• Carefully consider position and elevation. “During a strong storm, the barrels will overflow, and you don’t want a steady stream of water to run against the house,” Peet says. “I have them nestled in gravel to keep any water flow away from the house.”

Conservation Chic: Can Rain Barrels Boost Curb Appeal?

There’s no reason to be concerned about rain barrels ruining the look of a home, according to Peet and Zeeck. And when they’re carefully selected to match the architectural style or disappear into the landscaping, these reservoirs of free water might actually boost curb appeal.

“Water barrels come in many shapes and sizes,” says Peet. “The ones I’ve purchased look like bourbon barrels, and I think they add a nice charm to my Craftsman-style home.”

With an increase in demand comes an increase in options, so homeowners are likely to find a rain barrel that fits the aesthetic of their home. It might also act as a conversation starter among like-minded potential buyers. After all, anyone who buys that home can now clearly signal a commitment to green living—and a lower water bill to prove it.

Image by Heiner from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

Hotel and interior design experts offer tips for staging primary bedrooms with touches of luxe.

Recently, furniture and home decor company, CB2(link is external), named “luxury for all” as one of the top three home trends of 2022. The brand’s popularity with millennials, who currently comprise the largest percentage of home buyers(link is external), means CB2’s insights are valuable intel for real estate professionals.

The use of staging(link is external) can set a listing apart from the crowd and increase the amount buyers are willing to spend on a property, according to recent data from the National Association of REALTORS®. If homebuyers crave luxury and want it at a variety of price points, sellers would do well to stage their homes in a way that reflects these lifestyle aspirations. What better template for luxury staging than a five-star hotel suite?

Making a primary bedroom look and feel like a five-star hotel guestroom is “all about making mindful choices, keeping things really simple and introducing luxurious elements in very attainable ways,” says interior designer Rebecca Gitana, founder(link is external) of Healing Through the Home.

Luxury hotel experts and interior designers offer suggestions for arranging and styling bedrooms like five-star hotel rooms.

Limit Art and Accessories

Removing family photos and personal items is standard protocol when staging a house. But retaining or adding a couple of thoughtful accessories can boost the aesthetic appeal of a primary bedroom.

“High-end hotel rooms often imbue an aesthetic of minimalized clutter—sometimes just a coffee-table book, single piece of art, or a design-centric lamp bedside are enough,” says Brandon Berkson, founder(link is external) of Hotels Above Par.

“The hotel feeling is all about less is more,” agrees commercial interior designer(link is external) Gerardy Cabrera. “You can go wild with artwork, not with quantity, but with size and color.”

Choose Crisp White Bedding

If there’s one thing that makes a bedroom feel more like a five-star hotel room, it’s high-quality, high thread-count bedding, according to Brianna Glenn, luxury travel advisor(link is external) and founder of Milk + Honey Travels.

Interior designers agree. “Crisp white bed sheets are the number one staple in any five-star sleeping situation,” says Gitana.

Jaclyn Isaac, the principal designer and owner of Doni Douglas Designs(link is external), calls white sheets a no-brainer and suggests topping them with a fluffy white duvet cover. “Certain colors don’t show well on camera, but white looks bright and clean and gives off that hotel vibe,” she explains.

Pick a Signature Scent

Filling the kitchen with the smell of fresh-baked cookies before an open house is the oldest trick in the book. The idea has stuck around because it works. But if the scent of cookies makes a kitchen feel like home, what makes a bedroom feel luxurious?

Hotel candles, according to Glenn. These days, many hotels infuse the lobby with seasonal signature scents ranging from the distinct smoky-spicy aroma of Hotel Emma(link is external) in San Antonio to the gentle waft of cherries and lilies in The St. Regis New York(link is external).

“I stayed at Royal Monsour(link is external) in Marrakech, and I remember they sent me home with a candle that had their signature scent—I could light it at home and instantly be transported back to that magical place,” she recalls.

While any high-end candle will do, homeowners can infuse their bedrooms with scents inspired by actual five-star hotels with products(link is external) from Hotel Lobby Candle, a brand launched by travel writer and influencer Lindsay Silberman.

Take Cues from Nature

Luxury lodging often brings the outside in. That’s the case with one of Berkson’s new favorite properties, Piaule Catskill(link is external), which he says features simple oak-framed beds and floor-to-ceiling windows that “allow you to wake up to the surrounding forest.”

Of course, staging a room isn’t the same as renovating it. But homeowners can still include nature with lush houseplants or simple arrangements of foraged branches. Isaac says she always uses fresh flowers when staging.

Gitana suggests taking it a step further by decorating with colors and textures that mimic the natural world outside the room’s windows. Natural fibers might include cotton, bamboo, silk or wool. Even a bedroom entirely staged in shades of white can include natural variety by mixing up the fabrics and textures.

Include a Seating Area

In the world of hospitality, consumers associate square footage with luxury. While standard hotel rooms clock in at 330 square feet on average, luxury guest rooms range from 430 to 4,000 square feet, according to hospitality management software company(link is external) Cvent.

You can’t increase the square footage of a listing, but you can spruce it up for all it’s worth. Luxury properties do this by creating thoughtful sitting areas, even in heritage hotels with limited space.

“No matter the size of the bedroom, you can create a little spot to take a call, have a cup of coffee, or just stare out the window,” says Gitana. “Create this for yourself by introducing an interesting chaise lounge or love seat into your space. Have an even smaller space? A single chair also works!”

Balance the Layout

Not all primary bedrooms are symmetrical, but thoughtful furniture arranging can make the space feel balanced.

“Start with a bed frame that fits the room,” says Cabrera. Bigger isn’t always better, as a crowded bedroom feels like the opposite of luxe. He suggests choosing a bed that leaves 3 to 4 feet of space on each side, even if that means staging with a double bed in place of a king or queen.

Once the bed is in place, position a nightstand on each side. It might sound like a simple suggestion, but the resulting visual balance evokes a luxurious sense of calm and comfort, according to Gitana. Complete the look with a large enough rug to fit under the bed and the nightstands. “A too-small rug is a rookie decor mistake,” Isaac warns.

Image by khiem tran from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

Sustainable design and warm, cozy spaces are on the rise in 2023.

While homeowners compile their holiday wish lists, we’ve compiled a list of 12 home and design trends experts think will be next year’s stars.

Architecture and design experts weigh in on what’s emerging in 2023. As the new year emerges, lifestyle changes due to the pandemic continue to hold strong. Cutting home expenses and conserving resources are top of mind for many. Move over, granite: These new countertop materials are coming in strong, and cozy comfort is taking the place of stark, minimalist design.

Home Office Updates

For many, hybrid work is here to stay, so home offices make the list, though changes are in order. Many crave some interaction, says Priscilla Holloway, a salesperson with New York City–based Douglas Elliman.

Architect Liz Peabody of Boston-based The Architectural Team says that open, partially open and glass-walled spaces are seen in houses as well as multifamily buildings’ common spaces and individual apartment units. Another change is that some offices are larger and have a window for a nice view, according to designers at The Plan Collection(link is external).

Why now? The pandemic changed how and where we work, and people are still figuring out what works best at home.

Induction Cooking

Though the change will be gradual, many homeowners are expected to switch to induction cooking from natural gas. Many are finding that their cookware is induction-safe, despite previously held beliefs, says Chicago kitchen expert Mick De Giulio of de Giulio Kitchen Design. Induction has many benefits: Water boils faster, food cooks quicker, and homeowners have more control of heat level calibration, he says. Additionally, the smooth surface is easier to clean.

Why now? Many cities are outlawing natural gas hookups in new homes and buildings to reduce fossil fuel emissions and better control environmental and climate challenges.

Eco-friendly Design

More real estate sites list eco-friendly design as a priority, from solar panels to energy-efficient windows, stronger builds that better resist severe weather, more tech features like programmable thermostats, gardening apps(link is external) and smarter, more environmentally friendly, hygienic toilets like Toto USA’s Washlet and bidet toilets. TOTO also manufactures domestically, reducing its products’ carbon footprints, says Bill Strang, president of corporate strategy, e-commerce and customer care. 

Why now? More homeowners know the importance of sustainable design due to climate change reports, how fossil fuels damage the environment and the importance of preserving resources.

Cozier Comfort

Tough times call for an antidote, and many are seeking a dose of comfort within the walls of their homes. The ebb and flow of COVID-19 in conjunction with other stressors has people wanting to feel as though they’re wrapped in a warm hug, says Chicago-based designer Tom Segal of Kaufman Segal Design. He suggests doing so with patterned wallpaper on both walls and ceilings. A tactile touch also works, he says. Think big, upholstered headboards; ’50s and ’60s lounge-style sections to sprawl, watch TV or eat; and colorful tufted or handwoven area rugs that resemble art.

Why now? Collective stress levels are at an all-time high, and people are finding they need a respite from the constant barrage of information available because of the digital age.

More Natural, Personalized Interiors

The biophilic, natural look prevails in appeal because of the benefit nature provides. Homeowners want organic furnishings, live plants and warmer colors in the clay palette, says Gena Kirk, vice president of Design Studio at Los Angeles–based homebuilder KB Home. The latest iteration reflects interest in embracing memories through personalized design aesthetics that display mementos and heirlooms, Kirk says.

Why now? During the pandemic, homeowners opted for cleaner, minimalist interiors to set a clear boundary between personal space and the outside world. They now want to return to a new form of nesting, through an accumulation of textiles, warmer colors, new hardware and fabrics for a welcoming, natural environment to live, work and play, Kirk says.

Dekton and Neolith Surfaces

Every few years, a new countertop surface takes center stage as the best in terms of durability, sustainability, color or novelty. The latest “it” surfaces are newer “sintered” stones, a combination of minerals that form a solid surface that can’t be etched, scratched, burned or stained. Dekton and Neolith appeal because they resemble marble and other high-end surfaces and are resistant to fading, says Boston designer Jodi Swartz of KitchenVisions. Milwaukee designer Suzan Wemlinger adds that because the slabs are large, there’s less need for seams, and they can be used in outdoor kitchens without cracking in extreme temperatures.

Why now? New technology processes have led to the development of these stain-resistant, strong surfaces, and kitchen counter durability is nearly always top of mind for homeowners.

Affordable Design Choices

Instead of tempting buyers with fancy cabinets, finishes and appliances, more homebuilders are turning to affordability as a feature. “Good design is not about spending the most money but offering well-designed homes, sometimes without bells and whistles,” says Mary Cook, founder of Mary Cook Associates, a Chicago-based commercial interior design firm. Builders are displaying predesigned packages of cabinets, countertops, appliances and flooring that keep costs down. They’re also cutting square footage to show that buyers can live well in smaller homes, Cook says.

Why now? Higher interest rates have put a pause on buyer frenzy. “We went from crazy busy to crazy slow,” one homebuilder says. Now is the time to see how affordability and quality design come together.

Zero Emissions

Master-planned developments are taking the guesswork out of emission-free living. Developer Marshall Gobuty of Sarasota, Fla.–based Pearl Homes shows how with his 18-acre Hunter’s Point development, the first LEED Zero–certified community in the world, he says. “There’s no energy cost associated with the 86 single-family houses except for a $35 monthly maintenance fee from Florida Power,” he says.

Why now? With the pandemic and overall inflation, energy costs continue to soar. Also, sustainable development helps communities adapt to challenges posed by climate change and protects natural resources.

In Multifamily: More EV, Fewer Additional Amenities

Few multifamily buildings are constructed without an EV charging station, says architect Peabody. Developers are including a handful and leaving infrastructure available to expand the number. At the same time, they are devoting less square footage to amenities since younger generations are less inclined to pay for features they may not use, especially after seeing how the pandemic shut down facilities. What most still want are lounges, coworking spaces and outdoor areas to exercise and unwind, Peabody says. Pet parks and spas still make the list as well, says Cook.

Why now? EV stations are essential as more people switch to electric vehicles. Just over half of passenger cars sold in the U.S. will be electric vehicles by 2030, according to Bloomberg(link is external).

Walkable, Affordable Boomer Living

More efforts are underway to create more options for the enormous boomer cohort as they age(link is external). Many want to give up owning a car, live where their location has a high walkability score and cut living costs by living in smaller, energy-efficient homes. One example is developer David Fox’s Passive House building in Northampton, Mass., to be completed in 2024; it will eliminate 80% of typical energy needs to heat and cool and be built with sustainable mass timber construction, solar panels, a community garden and a bicycle shed. The building’s 70 apartments will average 1,200 square feet; share a gym, lounge and roof area to exercise; and limit rent increases.

Why now? Boomers are the largest aging community to date, and as the country ages, more emphasis on how elders live is needed now.

Fire-Resistant Modules

On the east coast, building structures to withstand Category 5 hurricanes and floods are in high demand. On the west coast, however, San Diego–based modular builder Dvele focuses on manufacturing fire-resistant steel modular houses. The company started with 500-square-foot homes constructed from a single module design and now offers 4,000-square-foot homes from seven module designs. All are also highly energy-efficient due to self-powered solar panels, says Kellan Hannah, the company’s director of growth.

Why now? The National Interagency Fire Center statistics show that as of last October, almost 60,000 fires burned 7 million acres, above the 10-year average of 48,000 fires and close to 6 million burned acres. Fires are only worsening, meaning construction must adapt.

What’s NOT Hot?    

Several once-popular design choices are losing appeal, primarily because they require high maintenance or aren’t functional for today’s busy routines, says Gena Kirk with homebuilder, KB Home. She suggests letting go of these four in the year ahead.

High Pile Carpet 

While soft, shaggy carpet styles make a statement, they are difficult to keep clean and aren’t practical, especially in households with kids and/or pets. 

Gray Cabinets 

Gray cabinets have been popular but are cooling off as more homeowners shift to warmer hues to make their spaces more welcoming. 

Standard Subway Tiles 

Standard-size white, horizontal subway tiles are still popular, but many now prefer larger 4-by-10 inch or 4-by-16-inch tiles that run vertically to draw eyes up and give an age-old design a fresh look.

Open Shelves 

Most struggle with clutter, so even though some love the open look above, others are opting for the traditional closed cabinets since they find it easier to keep stuff concealed. These days there are countless custom interior organization systems to arrange contents in a neat fashion.

Image by khiem tran from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

The pandemic-era remodeling boom continued this year, but homeowners were more keen to seek professional help rather than do it themselves.

As the remodeling boom continues, homeowners are increasingly in search of outdoor projects and other renovation ideas. Though the housing market overall is slowing, there is no shortage of demand for home improvement. But are some homeowners trying to take on too much for their level of DIY expertise?

The following are the top home and design articles at REALTOR® Magazine Online for 2022:

1. How Homeowners Can Make the Most of Their Yards—Even in Winter

After almost two years of pandemic life, homeowners understand the significant value of having a yard. Here are 8 ideas for getting creative with outdoor space.

2. 7 Most Popular Bathroom Upgrades

Homeowners are spending a median of $9,000 on bathroom renovations, which is 13% higher than last year, a new study finds. These are their favorite trends.

3. 4 DIY Jobs Sellers Should Stop Doing

Home inspectors say they can spot the work of an amateur versus a pro.

4. Home Organization That’s Easy to Maintain

Share these tips with your clients to help them take a deep dive into decluttering and storage for greater efficiency and enjoyment of their abode.

5. 2023 Home and Design Trends to Watch Sustainable design and warm, cozy spaces are on the rise in 2023.

Image by Alexa from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

After almost three years of pandemic life, homeowners understand the significant value of having a yard. Here are 8 ideas for getting creative with outdoor space.

Key Takeaways:

• Backyards continue to be a way to extend square footage, even during colder months.
• To get started, homeowners should make a list of their favorite ways to spend time outdoors.
• They should consider decorating “rooms” of the yard but also have a place to store items when storms and winds come.

Spending time outdoors at the height of the pandemic was a way to get fresh air, exercise safely, and expand living quarters. Now, nearing three years later, an outdoor retreat has become even more sought after, causing homeowners and design professionals to get creative in maximizing square footage.

Whether homeowners have a big suburban yard, rural acreage, or a small urban balcony, there are multiple ways to take advantage of the space, even in winter. They can pile on layers or follow the Swedish mantra of Friluftsliv, which translates to “open-air living and the value of spending time in remote locations for spiritual and physical well-being.”

The key isn’t the size of their space, or which activities homeowners do, but taking advantage of Mother Nature’s gifts—air, sky, clouds, sun, and greenery.

Millennials and other new homeowners have become particularly adept at using their yards for almost everything—from camping out with a tent and fire pit to organizing a staycation, or setting up an alternative office when they need a break from their indoor space, says Kris Kiser, president and CEO of TurfMutt Foundation(link is external), the education arm of the Alexandria, Va.-based Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, which encourage enjoyment of nature.

Kiser says there’s even a new term for this trend, which doesn’t need translation: Backyarding!

Here are eight ideas to share with clients to help them make the right investments in furnishings, landscaping, appliances, and more for their yards.

1. Link the indoors and outdoors by blurring lines. The most common way to do this is to add more windows and doors to connect the spaces and make the glazing bigger to achieve better views. It can also be done by using more colors and textures found in nature inside the home and bringing in plants. Homeowners can also decorate outdoors as they do inside, according to the online design resource, Houzz(link is external). The company’s search data shows that people want their backyards to be relaxing extensions of their interiors, which can be handled with stylish, durable materials, as well as by adding a fireplace or fire pit, outdoor TV, sound system, and comfortable seating, pillows, and rugs.

2. Set up an outdoor office. Many people made do with cramped makeshift offices during the pandemic. Others created separate indoor spaces but working outdoors can literally offer a breath of fresh air to ramp up creativity. Flowers, bushes, and trees can become the living backdrop on conference calls instead of the kitchen counters or office bookcases. Essentials to make it work include strong Wi-Fi, an electrical outlet or two for equipment that’s not wireless, a sturdy table for a laptop, a comfortable chair, lighting for night-time work, and a rug to add warmth underfoot. Some may want a small portable generator to keep power running, Kiser says.

3. Dine al fresco. Homeowners shouldn’t limit themselves to only eating dinner outdoors. Any meal—breakfast, brunch, lunch, cocktails, and snacks—can be enjoyed plein air. They should have a nice flat area, whether a balcony, terrace, or deck, to set up a table and chairs with enough space to navigate around them. Homeowners also should choose a material that won’t need frequent repainting—many closely resemble real wood and stone and are sustainable. Add the right equipment—a grill, pizza oven, running water from a spigot that won’t freeze (or a sink), and firepit—to make the experience more enjoyable. They can hang some lights, maybe a curtain, and if there’s room and funds, construct a pergola for an overhead cover. If the homeowners like the sound of running water, they can add a recirculating fountain so the water won’t freeze in the winter.

4. Add entertainment. All work and no play isn’t fun, and the outdoors is a perfect place for classic games like croquet and badminton, and board games such as Monopoly and Clue, or jigsaw puzzles. Many families are also investing in large-screen outdoor TVs and movie projectors. And then there are all the pools being built. If there is no room or funds, they might consider a less costly above-ground pool or smaller hot tub. Suggest they position it close enough to the house so they’re not trekking far in the cold or snow.

5. Establish a wildlife habitat. Attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds by planting the right flowers and plants. Add a greenhouse if there’s room, which will allow homeowners to garden all year. A birdhouse and feeder or two, and great additions; even a chicken coop is becoming more commonplace.

6. Make a yard pet friendly. Are your clients’ pet owners? If they have a dog, they could add a fence of some type, maybe a sandpile for digging, a doghouse that’s large enough so Fido doesn’t feel cramped, and perhaps an agility course so he or she gets good exercise. Hardscape like bricks, concrete pavers, or stone can be an alternative spot to urinate that won’t ruin your lawn(link is external). Also, homeowners can consider some faux lawn choices—many look authentic—and avoid planting things that are toxic to dogs and people, according to The Spruce.(link is external)

7. Store neatly. Even outdoor spaces can become cluttered. A shed or closet in a garage can be set up with shelves, bins, and hooks to hang rakes, bicycles, helmets, and more. This will also keep tools out of reach of young children, and provide a place to store fuel safely, too, says Kiser.

8. Create some privacy. While homeowners may want to have a friendly relationship with their neighbors, they may also want some privacy at times, especially when working from home or throwing parties. Fences work well, but so can living screens of greenery—rows of trees, bushes, or vines. They should choose native materials that don’t require a lot of watering and consider materials that provide color or texture year-round. Suggest they start small with plantings that will grow over time, which is less costly than investing in big, mature plants.

While many of the tips on this list can be undertaken by a skilled DIYer, homeowners should also consider contacting a contractor, landscape designer, or architect sooner rather than later since many are booked far in advance.

Image by Rudy and Peter Skitterians from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission