All articles tagged with #home renovation
California is moving to ban the fabrication of engineered quartz countertops containing over 1% crystalline silica, following a surge in fatal silicosis cases among workers. While Australia implemented a similar ban in 2024, no single alternative material perfectly replicates quartz’s durability and low-maintenance appeal, forcing homeowners to weigh trade-offs between porcelain, granite, and quartzite.
A growing number of homeowners are renovating their homes to include small 'Costco doors' connecting garages to kitchens or pantries. These modifications allow shoppers to directly unload heavy bulk items, such as 25-pound bags of rice, from their vehicles into their homes, eliminating the need for multiple trips. While the trend offers ergonomic benefits by reducing physical strain and fall risks, some homeowners express concerns regarding pest entry and security. Builders report high demand for this specific feature, reflecting a broader shift toward home efficiency in 2026.
In August 2026, Anglo-Saxon human remains discovered during a 2019 kitchen renovation in Wye, Kent, were formally re-interred at a local church. The bones, initially mistaken for animal remains, triggered a police investigation before being identified as approximately 1,000 years old. The homeowner, Ross Sledger, described the ordeal as a 'crime scene' that disrupted his renovation plans and sleep, but ultimately resulted in a respectful burial ceremony.
In Damascus, Oregon, Hana Brown and her husband funded a $400,000, 900-square-foot ADU on their two-acre property so Hana’s Bosnian refugee parents could live rent-free nearby. The one-bedroom, open-concept unit features a large kitchen island, vaulted ceilings, a deck, mudroom, and space to add accessibility features later. The Cataks moved in during summer 2024, bringing daily proximity and support, while the family navigated unexpected costs like fire access and sprinklers. The arrangement reflects a deliberate, long-term plan for aging in place and close family ties.
The article showcases the top 10 home renovation transformations of 2025, highlighting a mix of historic inspiration and modern updates across various U.S. cities and London, including kitchens, bathrooms, and entire homes, with notable projects like a $1,000 facelift in New Orleans and a colorful London kitchen.
A renovated 70s ranch home, heavily altered with unnecessary additions like a turret and double gable, has sparked outrage and humor online, highlighting issues of tasteless design and the environmental impact of large, resource-intensive homes that contribute to housing shortages and waste. Experts suggest investing in eco-friendly upgrades and reducing consumerism to mitigate these effects.
Paula Cox renovated her 1940s house in Austin with the help of Clayton Korte, adding modern touches to create a home closer to her grandchildren, inspired by an architectural tour of the city.
Dopamine decor is a trend where people use bold colors and quirky items in their homes to boost mood and happiness, inspired by the brain's reward system. While popular on social media and believed to enhance wellbeing, it may not appeal to all buyers, with some preferring neutral tones for resale. The trend encourages affordable, creative ways to add personality and joy to living spaces.
Diane Keaton, renowned actress, also left a legacy as a passionate house renovator and flipper, transforming nearly 50 homes with her unique, eclectic taste, and influencing property values through her distinctive style and vision.
Actor Christopher Lloyd is selling his Montecito, California mountain home for $6.83 million, a renovated 2,880 sq ft contemporary residence with ocean and mountain views, indoor-outdoor living spaces, and a guest house displaying his Emmy awards. The home, purchased in 2017, is described as a peaceful sanctuary with a focus on natural beauty and tranquility.
A homeowner reflects on missing their old carpet after replacing it with luxury vinyl plank flooring, highlighting personal preferences in home decor.
Chelsea Handler revealed her biggest financial mistake was renovating her five-bedroom home into a two-bedroom to prevent family visits, which decreased its value and led to costly re-renovation. She now owns a luxurious property in Mandeville Canyon and advocates for investing in real estate as a stable financial strategy.
Nicole Curtis announced on Instagram that she decided to pause the new season of Rehab Addict after two episodes to take a break for her family, with the show temporarily replaced by My Lottery Dream Home on HGTV, and clarified that there was no behind-the-scenes drama or replacement by David Bromstad.
The Starmer family in Florida spent $69,000 converting their garage into a rent-free apartment for their son to support his startup, which also became a successful side business for them by sharing renovation plans and courses online.
The Starmer family in Florida converted their garage into a rent-free studio apartment for their son to support his startup ambitions, which also became a potential income source when rented out on Airbnb, showcasing a creative and supportive approach to family and business.