Home renovations prove to be a great way to personalize your living space for years to come. It is linked to the desire for an economical and environmentally friendly life.
Renovating your home can make your daily life more eco-efficient and comfortable. Here are seven keys to consider for your next home renovation.
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1. Daylight
Indoor living has become the norm over the past couple of years, prompting homeowners to find creative ways to bring the outdoors inside. You can improve your mood and lower your energy costs by adding multiple banks of windows for natural light.
Design plays a vital role in maximizing natural lighting in your home. Depending on the room, you might consider creating entire walls of windows that let in the breeze or the view. Another option is to insert skylights.
As the sun changes throughout the day, window height can also provide more privacy and turn a room into light and shade.
2. Sustainable floors
The global dialogue around sustainability has progressed in recent years. So homeowners are investing in sustainable materials for their 2022 renovation projects.
Sustainable, natural flooring made with less impact on the environment has grown in popularity. For example, linoleum, cork, bamboo, or engineered hardwood floors like maple or oak can give your home an organic, non-toxic look and feel.
Homeowners have many options when renovating their homes with sustainable flooring, such as eco-friendly finishes and recycled materials to better match their design tastes.
3. Energy efficiency
Homeowners are increasingly savvy about installing energy-efficient technologies and appliances in their homes. It is recommended that you replace your current system with a newer model, especially if you live in a warmer climate or use your air conditioner year-round.
The initial costs of these advanced HVAC systems are higher. However, prioritizing these upgrades can result in substantial long-term savings in electricity and energy consumption.
Today’s innovative technologies are also often compatible with your phones and tablets. Features can include remote maintenance of your thermostat or adjusting the temperature in a room based on occupancy.
4. Storage space
The need for more storage space has been a popular trend in home improvement projects, but never more than now. In 2021, for example, 28% of kitchen renovations included the addition of additional cabinetry.
There are several ways to improve your storage capacity. Cabinets and drawers can provide plenty of hidden storage space, while taller dressers and pantries are also becoming more popular.
Other options include floating vanities, linen closets, dedicated laundry or vestibules and built-in banquettes with hinged tops.
5. Home offices
According to Houzz’s Emerging Home Design Trends report, more businesses have shifted to remote working during the pandemic, with searches for home offices up 108% in 2021. Although several businesses have reopened, owners still want to a relaxed and flexible workspace at home.
When you start planning your home office renovation, consider the following:
- Do you want windows for natural light or a view?
- Do you need a door or a screen for more privacy?
- Can it be a shared space for your partner’s work or your children’s homework?
- Need storage space, like a closet or built-in bookcase?
- How much space do you need to place your work accessories?
A functional home office is essential. However, a shared office and guest bedroom can be disruptive if you have company.
6. Kitchen upgrades
Kitchen renovations will likely include clean, minimalist designs that anchor the home.
Projects that create open floor plans fell from 53% to 43% from 2019 to 2021, but homeowners still want kitchens that look bigger. Expansive backsplashes and ceiling-height cabinetry draw the eye upward. Other designs may feature islands painted against neutral grays, whites and pastels.
Improved faucets can also increase water efficiency and offer features like touchless activation.
7. A touch of color
Neutral color palettes generally give rooms a soothing and airy feel. It is expected that in 2022, renovators will opt for a paint that rejuvenates their home.
Homeowners are likely to steer clear of all-white walls, learning toward creamier beiges, earth-inspired tones, charcoal accents, or neutral blues. These shades make a fresh, bold statement that’s always easy on the eyes and maintains a sense of calm.
Blue paint with gray undertones pairs well with other neutral and natural accents. Consider cream-colored upholstered chairs, textured rattan shades, and exposed or natural wood.
Consider these popular renovation projects in 2022
Renovating your home can be a fun and rewarding experience. Consider these popular updates and modifications if your home needs a new look or expanded functionality in the coming year.
By Jane Marsh. Articles in English