When it comes to remodeling your home, settling for less is not an option. You want something that reflects your style while being fresh and in line with the latest décor trends. To find truly awe-inspiring home remodeling ideas, it's always a great idea to explore the work of award-winning designers and builders who have risen to the top. This list is a great starting point, featuring remodeling ideas for kitchens, bathrooms, and the entire house. It also provides tips and tricks to consider when making your own remodeling decisions, ensuring you invest your money wisely.
What Should I Remodel First?
If you're unsure where to begin, it's best to prioritize the kitchen, bathrooms, or floors. Refinishing or replacing your hardwood floors can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your home. It's a low-risk project that can be completed fairly quickly compared to other remodels. However, if you're up for a larger challenge, the kitchen and bathrooms take the top spots on the priority list. They have the biggest impact on your daily life and are the best investments for future-proofing your house.
What Remodel Adds the Most Value?
For the most significant return on investment, remodeling the kitchen is your best bet. Even minor kitchen remodels, such as cabinet refacing or installing new countertops, can recoup up to 85.7% of their cost. Full kitchen remodels typically yield around 41.8% of your investment. If your kitchen is already in good shape, consider updating your bathroom(s) instead. There are plenty of inexpensive bathroom remodeling ideas that can add value to your home. Additionally, new floors, especially hardwood, are a worthwhile investment, with a potential return between 118% and 147%.
Ready to see some remodels that will knock your socks off? Here are a few award-winning examples to give you some inspiration.
Increase Your Home’s Resale Value With a Kitchen Upgrade
Upgrading or improving your kitchen is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your home. And you don't need to embark on a huge project to make an impact. Take a look at this remodeled kitchen that perfectly preserves the character of the house while modernizing the space.
By combining dark wood tones with white cabinetry, the designers created a kitchen that looks bigger and brighter. They retained original ceiling details, such as beams, to add warmth and personality. The use of different types of lighting adds dimension and brings a modern touch to the room.
In this remodel, the designers replaced an ill-fitting peninsula with an island, improving flow and functionality. They also added extra cabinets for increased storage and freed up counter space. By preserving the original details and incorporating modern changes, they created a comfortable and inviting kitchen.
Retreat to a Cozy Oasis at the End of the Day With a Bedroom Refresh
A bedroom refresh can make a world of difference in creating a relaxing space. Take a look at these award-winning bedrooms that combine style and comfort.
To transform a "dated" and "dark" bedroom, GMI Design Group increased the size of the windows, bringing in more light and making the room feel more spacious. The use of beige and light gray tones creates a calm and contemporary vibe, while pops of color in artwork and throw pillows add warmth and charm.
The Aspiring Home Interiors knows how to effortlessly mix minimalist style and comfort. Light, airy blues and whites, combined with natural wood accents, give this bedroom a welcoming and vacation-like atmosphere. The hardwood floors and furniture add warmth to the space, creating a perfect balance.
Michelle Yorke Interior Design chose darker tones for this cozy room. With grays and blues leading the way, the space offers a perfect place for relaxation. The bed invites you to sleep in, while the chair is ideal for late-night reading. Beige and white accents lighten the room, adding a touch of elegance.
Remodel Your Bathroom To Add More Functionality and Appeal
Bathroom remodels can greatly enhance the functionality and appeal of your home. These award-winning projects showcase the possibilities.
This remodel project by Remodel Boutique demonstrates how the right details can turn a bathroom into your personal sanctuary. With a double vanity, a soaking tub, an elegant shower, and even a reading corner, this bathroom offers a spa-like experience within the comfort of your own home.
Alair Homes Dallas/Fort Worth shows how smart use of space and simple details like wallpaper can transform a bathroom. By adding a bathtub, warm wood cabinetry, and colorful wallpaper, they rejuvenated the space without breaking the bank.
Help Warm Up the Look of Your Home With an Updated Fireplace
Fireplace remodels can bring warmth and character to your home. Take a look at these award-winning fireplace transformations.
Designer Madison Rees at Rock Solid Renovations replaced the rustic look of a family room fireplace with a clean, contemporary design. Smooth black granite with gold and creamy veining adds movement and sparkle to the space. The fireplace now serves as a focal point, bringing warmth and value to the home.
The Scan 87 fireplace, designed by Niels Kjeldsen Design, combines modern and timeless design. Its unique silhouette and glass window make it a functional and fashionable focal point in any room.
Reclaim Square Footage With a Basement Remodel
Basements often become forgotten storage spaces, but they can be transformed into functional and inviting rooms. Take a look at these award-winning basement remodels.
Martanne Construction shows how luminous a basement can be with the right design. By maximizing light and using light colors and materials, they turned a forgotten space into an entertainment hub with a kitchen, living room, and bathroom.
Dave Osmond Builders created a media room that resembles an old movie set. With a dry bar, wine cellar, and dining area, this basement is perfect for entertaining and family gatherings. The use of industrial elements, black-and-white artwork, and a vintage-style popcorn machine adds charm and character to the space.
These award-winning remodels showcase the potential to transform your home into a place you'll love. However, it's essential to avoid common remodeling mistakes, such as starting without a solid plan and budget or focusing too much on trendy designs. Consider low-effort and low-cost remodeling ideas, such as redoing the siding, adding a small deck, or replacing your garage door, which can have a significant impact on your home's value.
If you're ready to embark on a remodeling journey, our Ultimate Home Remodeling Checklist can guide you through the planning and execution process. For more remodeling tips, including how to hire a remodeling contractor, visit the PODS Blog.