Saturday, March 28, 2026
Features that can redefine a living room
Spring is widely cherished as a season of rejuvenation. As winter winds down, many people embrace the arrival of spring blooms and the regrowth of grass on the ground and leaves on the trees, which can breathe new life into landscapes that might have grown a bit stale in previous months.
That same staleness can affect a home’s interior as well. Home interiors can benefit from periodic updates in much the same way a landscape benefits when spring blooms return. As homeowners seek to refresh their living spaces, they can consider these features to redefine their living rooms.
• Fireplace: A wood-burning fireplace is undeniably a game changer when looking to redefine a living space. But such a project could be a significant undertaking in a home that does not already feature a wood-burning fireplace. Homeowners who want to add a wood-burning fireplace can reinvent a living room, but they will likely need to adhere to building codes, secure permits and even consult with an engineer to ensure such an addition does not affect the structural integrity of the home. A gas-powered fireplace is a less demanding project, but will also require some extra work if homeowners need to connect a gas line where no such line currently exists. A plug-in electric fireplace can create a new ambiance and will not require as much time, effort and money as the alternatives.
• Coffered ceiling: A coffered ceilings can immediately redefine the impression people get of a living space. Coffered ceilings feature a series of rectangular, square or octagonal grids that are typically accentuated by molding. Coffered ceilings provide a luxurious and even historic aesthetic, making them an ideal addition for homeowners looking to redefine an existing space.
• Windows: New windows are another option when homeowners are hoping to redefine a living room. Modern windows are energy-efficient, so replacing
aging windows may help homeowners combat rising energy costs. If a yard is a notable feature of a home’s exterior, new windows that accentuate the view from a living space can quickly redefine how residents and guests see the room. Permits may be necessary if you’re expanding existing windows, but that can be worth it if you’re able to design the space around the view. All that extra natural light also may reinvent the feeling people get upon entering the space.
• Wallpaper: Interior design specialists note that wallpaper is making a comeback. Wallpaper can be used to draw attention to a wall in much the same way bold colors are chosen for accent walls. Wallpaper on an accent wall can feature a bold pattern or a strong color to add a sense of personality to a room that might be lacking if the walls are currently painted in neutral colors.
Homeowners can consider any number of features when looking to give their living spaces a fresh look.
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Popular kitchen flooring materials
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It’s well-documented that kitchens are popular gathering spaces in homes. Perhaps that’s one reason why homeowners looking to sell their homes direct so much attention to the kitchen before listing their properties. The real estate experts at Trulia note that emphasis is well worth it, as buyers inspect kitchens and primary bathrooms more than any other spaces in a home.
Cabinets and countertops garner considerable attention when pondering kitchen renovations, but it’s equally important that homeowners pay attention to flooring when planning a remodel. The following are some notable flooring materials homeowners may want to consider as they plan to remodel their kitchens.
• Ceramic tile: Ceramic tile is a popular kitchen flooring material. The flooring experts at Avalon Flooring note that ceramic tile boasts an elegant and clean feel. Ceramic tile also is durable and easy to maintain. That simple maintenance includes ease of cleaning, as ceramic tile can be quickly cleared of spills and dirt tracked into a kitchen from outside. Ceramic tile also comes in a wide variety of colors, a versatility that undoubtedly adds to its popularity.
• Porcelain tile: Porcelain tile is another versatile option that can add instant aesthetic appeal to a kitchen. Porcelain tile is waterproof, which appeals to
many homeowners looking to renovate their kitchens. Porcelain also is easily cleaned and durable, as flooring experts estimate that porcelain tiles can last anywhere from 15 to 50 years. Porcelain tile also requires minimal maintenance, which appeals to busy homeowners.
• Engineered hardwood: Engineered hardwood is a popular choice that many homeowners appreciate due to its strength and aesthetic appeal. This flooring material is made with real wood that’s reinforced to make it even more durable and water-resistant. The result is an easily maintained product that also can last as long as solid wood flooring so long as it’s well-maintained. Various shades, designs and textures are available, which makes this a versatile option.
• Laminate flooring: Laminate flooring is a budget-friendly option that’s available in a wide range of styles, colors and patterns. The smooth surface of laminate flooring makes it easy to clean, and it’s resistance to water is another characteristic that appeals to homeowners. But spills on laminate floors are best cleaned up quickly, and the material is vulnerable to warping and staining if exposed to moisture for extended periods of time.
These are some of the options homeowners can consider as they ponder which material to install on their kitchen floors as they remodel these popular rooms.
How to make a laundry room a more functional space
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Functionality is important when designing the interior spaces in a home. Homeowners who redesign their interior spaces can emphasize functionality to help reduce clutter and create a more efficient and even calming space.
Laundry rooms may not be the most glamorous rooms in a home, but they do get lots of usage, particularly in homes with children. Because laundry rooms tend to be well trafficked areas, it makes sense for homeowners to make them as functional and user-friendly as possible. With that in mind, homeowners can consider these tips to make laundry rooms more functional spaces.
• Purchase laundry pedestals with storage capacity. Laundry pedestals make useful additions to a laundry room. Many homeowners place their washing machines and dryers on top of pedestals with storage drawers, which can be used to store everything from dryer sheets to clothes irons to stain removal kits. Pedestals can be particularly useful in cramped laundry rooms where the only means to adding storage is to go up and not out.
• Install a freestanding laundry sink. A laundry sink also adds function to a laundry room by enabling homeowners to hand wash certain clothes
and apply stain removal products in the same space where the rest of their clothes are being cleaned. Installing a laundry sink is a relatively inexpensive job, but the cost may go up if new plumbing, venting or electrical work is necessary.
• Add a countertop work space. If you already have ample storage and won’t be placing the washer or dryer atop a laundry pedestal, then installing some countertop above the appliances can add function and aesthetic appeal. A countertop workspace above a dryer provides an accessible space to fold laundry the moment it dries, reducing the likelihood that clothes will become wrinkled and ensuring you won’t put off folding.
• Install floating shelves. Floating shelves won’t cost a lot of money, but they can be ideal in cramped laundry rooms. Shelves provide a space to store detergent and other items that may not fit inside laundry pedestals, including baskets.
• Add hanging storage. Some articles of clothing should not be dried in a dryer for fear of shrinking the fabric or destroying the item. In such instances, some readily accessible hanging storage capacity can make the laundry room more functional. Items can be hung on hangers or over a hanging rack suspended from the ceiling if space is minimal.
Laundry rooms are heavily used spaces in a home, so it makes sense to take steps to make these areas as functional as possible.
Notable features of modern bathrooms
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Functionality is important when designing the intBathrooms are more than just places to wash up. These spaces are evolving from utilitarian rooms to high-tech sanctuaries with all the modern conveniences one can imagine. Homeowners are increasingly investing more into their bathrooms, reflecting a growing desire for quiet luxury and personal health.
According to the 2026 National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Trends Report, 72 percent of designers report that clients are enlarging their bathrooms to accommodate new wellness-centered
features. Modern bathrooms are defined by some notable features.
Home spa shower
The NKBA reports more homeowners now prioritize a larger, feature-rich shower over just a bathtub. Steam showers are no longer niche; they integrate aromatherapy and chromotherapy (mood-enhancing light) systems into the designs. Although open, walk-in showers are still popular for their accessibility, there’s a rising trend in shower pods, which are enclosed, cozy spaces that more effectively retain heat and steam.
Aging in place elements
Features once associated with getting older are now being rebranded as high-end design elements. According to Forbes, curbless entries and built-in benches are some luxury safety features built into modern bathrooms.
Smart technology
Polaris Market Research says the global smart bathroom market is projected to exceed $11 billion in 2026. Technology focused on efficiency and hygiene is popular. Intelligent toilets that have self-cleaning UV nozzles, heated seats and motionactivated lids are rising in popularity. Smart faucets with precise flow control and leak detection also are becoming standard, with Houzz saying sustainability
features like these are a must-have for 84 percent of renovators.
Evolving minimalism
Organic minimalism is a defining style within modern bathroom trends for 2026. This idea prioritizes clean looks with natural materials like stone and wood, which are replacing cool grays and stark whites that have been dominating bathroom schemes for some time, according to Re-Bath design expert Jenny Mars. Designers favor largeformat slabs or tiles to minimize grout lines. Earthy tones like sage green, terracotta, and warm wood vanities also are popular.
Layered lighting
Design pros are using lighting as a functional tool, and say that task lighting must be layered for the best effect. Nighttime-specific low-glow lighting and integrated mirror LEDs support a natural circadian rhythm while offering comfort and safety. The NKBA says 91 percent of respondents cite lighting as a top priority in their bathroom designs. Mood lighting in showers and other lighting features are popular requests.
Modern bathrooms continue to evolve with features that add aesthetic appeal, sustainability and technology to these historically utilitarian spaces.
5 ideas to repurpose a formal dining room
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Traditional formal dining rooms are not as necessary as they were a generation or two ago. A recent study by Realtor.com found formal dining rooms are often the most underutilized square footage in homes, and a significant percentage of Millennial and Gen Z homeowners prefer flexible “lifestyle rooms” over dining spaces.
So what can homeowners whose dining room tables are covered in mail or the kids’ homework do to repurpose the space into something they will actually use? The following are five ideas to repurpose a formal dining room into a more usable space.
1. Lounge: Those who enjoy hosting friends or family without sitting down to formal dinners might appreciate transforming the dining space into a cocktail lounge. Swapping the dining room table and chairs for low swivel chairs around a coffee table or high-backed bar stools around bar tables easily converts the seating space. A built-in wet bar or a bar cart helps complete this social hub for intimate conversation. Paint the room in darker colors or use textured wallpaper to simulate an after-hours feel that separates the space from the rest of the house.
2. Library: Homeowners can create a digital detox zone by way of a cozy library. A timeless choice, a library can feature floor-to-ceiling bookshelves or built-ins and comfortable reading chairs stationed by a window.
3. Music space: Homeowners who play an
instrument may appreciate a designated space for jam sessions. Dining rooms with high ceilings and bare floors often provide excellent acoustics for music. Complement the space with a high-tech audio system and sound baffling panels for those who plan to record.
4. Home office: Hybrid work is a permanent fixture in today’s career landscape. A dining room located near the front of the home presents a prime location for a professional workspace. Replace a table with a sleek executive desk. An existing buffet or sideboard can be repurposed as printer storage or for filing. Consider adding French doors or partitions to provide privacy without compromising on light flow.
5. Homework zone: Active families may need to transform the dining room into a homework lab that offers a quiet space for educational pursuits. Organized cabinetry can house school materials, craft supplies, and much more, confining it all to one room. Locating the computer in the space creates a centralized “safe” spot for internet browsing and monitoring young children in the process.
Dining spaces may be going the way of the dinosaur, reflecting modern homeowners’ preferences for more flexible and useful spaces.
High-ROI outdoor living components
Outdoor living has become a coveted feature for many homeowners and those looking to buy. In 2026, landscape architecture has shifted from something that is purely ornamental to features that are functional and resilient. The American Society of Landscape Architects says a professionally designed landscape can increase a home’s value by anywhere from 15 to 20 percent. Some projects can yield a return on investment of even more — even recuperating the entire cost.
Where is a homeowner to start when it comes to maximizing the potential of a landscape? These projects and components can be a good place to start.
• Natural stone patios: A high-quality patio can offer a great ROI. These patios may use the same stone levels and lines as the interior of the home.
• Outdoor kitchens: HGTV says an outdoor kitchen ROI can range from 55 percent to 200 percent, depending on the location and comparable homes in the area. High-value versions include built-in grills, weather-resistant cabinetry, and stone prep areas.
• Climate-controlled pergolas: Pergolas on their own can add interest and function to outdoor spaces. Those that feature motorized louvers that adjust for sun and rain have become a luxury essential for many homeowners. They help extend the usability of outdoor spaces during various seasons.
• Smart lighting systems: Integrated systems with LED lights controlled by apps are now major selling points for homes. These systems improve security and curb appeal at night. According to Urban Oasis Contracting, outdoor lighting doesn’t just show a space, but also transforms it. Adding carefully placed lights can redefine the property in distinct ways.
• Softscaping improvements: Mature trees can add character to a property and also reduce cooling costs via natural shade. Landscapes that require low irrigation are outperforming traditional lawns, according to Organic Valley.
Homeowners looking to get great returns on outdoor living investments can consider prized improvements that transform exterior living spaces.
Things to know when replacing windows
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Windows are durable, but they do not last forever. The experts at This Old House say the life span of home windows is between 15 and 50 years, with most reaching the upper limits of their life expectancy at around 20 years. Once they reach this age, the seals begin to weaken or fail, and windows become susceptible to drafts and water seepage.
Replacing windows can be a good investment. Such a project is one of the more effective ways to elevate a home’s curb appeal and value. New windows are energy efficient and make homes more secure. They also tend to look better than old, fading windows. When pondering a window replacement project, it’s important to consider these factors.
• Know the window types. Double hung windows are classic and have operable upper and lower sashes. Lowering the upper sash allows warm air near the ceiling to escape and cooler air can to flow in through the bottom. Single hung windows only have an operable lower sash. Sliding windows have one or more panels that move horizontally, and picture windows are fixed models designed to offer wide, unobstructed views and lots of light.
• Repair or replace windows. Existing windows might just need to be repaired, saving homeowners
thousands of dollars. It’s best to consult with a professional to see if certain components can be repaired rather than replaced. Typically, rotten framing, wet or weeping windows or significant drafts require replacement.
• Identify the differences between replacement windows and construction windows. Traditional replacement windows are sometimes called pocket windows, says Consumer Reports. They fit inside an existing window frame. Construction windows require the removal of the entire old window, including the frame, sill and trim. The latter cost more to install.
• Familiarize yourself with window frame materials. Various window frame materials are available for purchase, and variables such as heat transfer, maintenance and durability differ with each product. Vinyl is a common material that’s low-maintenance and affordable. Aluminum and aluminum clad windows can be economical options, and they are corrosion-resistant and require little maintenance. Wood also is popular for the interior parts of a window, and offer a traditional look. Wood is available on new construction windows. Fiberglass windows also are available in new construction windows. They won’t crack, warp, rust, corrode, or peel, and the frames will not expand and contract as much as other materials.
• Keep costs in mind. According to Fixr, an online marketplace for local remodeling services, the average national price for a professional to replace a window is around $800. For a one-story house, a window replacement project of multiple windows may cost around $8,000.
When selecting replacement windows, look for The National Fenestration Rating Council label to get a snapshot of the window’s energy performance to compare with others. The Energy Star logo indicates that the window meets Energy Star standards.
Cost-effective curb appeal boosters
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One shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. However, that often is hard to do, particularly when it comes to homes. Curb appeal bears significant influence regarding how a property is perceived. A property that is neat and aesthetically appealing probably will be preferable to one that looks like the homeowners did not maintain it.
Boosting curb appeal is a common focus of sellers before listing a property. But what can those who don’t have big budgets for major overhauls do to improve their curb appeal? Plenty of projects can offer maximum output with minimal investment.
Refresh the front door
Painting the front door can add brightness and improve the look of a home’s entryway. Most exterior paint costs between $30 and $40 per gallon, so this is undeniably a budget-friendly improvement. If money allows, replacing the door altogether will generate bang for your buck.
Improve or add landscaping elements
Landscaping should be designed to highlight the home’s best features. It should look symmetrical and feel manicured. If it’s not possible to plant new
flowers or bushes, simply cleaning up debris and weeds, and trimming existing greenery can make it feel neater and more polished.
Clean
up
Power-washing the siding, cement walkways and garage door can create instant impact. It’s amazing how much dirt and mildew can reduce the luster of a home. Cleaning off years of grime can be a fast and inexpensive refresh.
Reseal the driveway
around the property will cast a more positive glow on a home, both literally and figuratively.
Add a seating area
Make sure the driveway is clean and tidy. If it has cracks or discoloration, filling in cracks and applying a new coat of sealer will make a big difference. Homeowners can hire someone to reseal the driveway or do the work on their own.
Add more lighting
Updating front porch lights and accent lights
If space by the front door allows, add a bench or some chairs to create a welcoming seating area. A potted plant or two nearby will help the area seem intentional.
Improving curb appeal doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. A few easy touches can boost the look of any property.
