How to Create an Open Floor Plan in Your Home

Are you looking to create an open floor plan and a versatile living space in your home? An open floor plan might be the answer. These suggestions will guide you in creating an open floor plan that suits your lifestyle and preferences. So, get ready to reimagine and fall in love with your living space.

Remove Non-Load-Bearing Walls

This can dramatically transform your home’s layout and create a spacious and inviting open floor plan. Say goodbye to barriers and hello to seamless flow. Opening up space unleashes endless possibilities. With those walls gone, rooms blend harmoniously. No more feeling boxed in. The newfound freedom allows natural light to dance effortlessly. Now, the entire space feels brighter and more welcoming. Entertaining guests becomes a breeze. Additionally, the removal of walls encourages social interaction and connectivity. Conversation flows effortlessly from one area to another.

Your kitchen merges seamlessly with the living room. No more isolation for the cook. Furthermore, it’s a hub of activity where family and friends gather. Overall, removing walls reveals hidden potential. Flexibility becomes your ally.

Additionally, furniture placement becomes a playground of creativity. The possibilities are endless. Not only does it create an open floor plan, but it also adds value to your home. Potential buyers are drawn to the airy, modern appeal. Removing non-load-bearing walls is like a magic trick. It transforms your home into a whole new space that feels open, bright, and filled with endless possibilities.

A small apartment with a bed and a dining room set.

Go For An Open Staircase

When it comes to creating an open floor plan, an open staircase is a game-changer. The flow between different levels becomes seamless by replacing a traditional closed staircase with an open design. No longer confined, your home becomes a symphony of connected spaces. The open staircase serves as a graceful transition, inviting you to explore new heights. Furthermore, the open design encourages interaction and a feeling of unity. With each step, you connect with the activity happening on different levels. It’s like a dance, where the rhythm of your home beats harmoniously. Natural light becomes a star performer, cascading through the open staircase and illuminating the entire space.

It’s a celestial spotlight highlighting the beauty of your home’s architecture. An open staircase is an architectural masterpiece, a statement piece that adds a touch of elegance to your living space. It becomes a focal point, drawing the eye and anchoring the open floor plan. Its transparency allows for unobstructed views, creating a sense of continuity. Furthermore, you can admire the living room from the top floor or catch a glimpse of the kitchen as you ascend. The open staircase is the bridge that unites different areas, connecting the heart of your home. So, embrace the freedom of an open staircase, and let your home soar to new heights of openness and beauty.

Add Sliding Doors

Next, sliding doors are the secret weapon you need if you want to create an open floor plan. These versatile design elements effortlessly blend practicality with style. With a gentle push, they slide open, unveiling a world of possibilities. Transitioning from one area to another becomes a seamless experience. It’s like a magic portal, connecting rooms and bringing people together. Whether hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening, sliding doors adapt to your needs. They grant you the power to open up or close off spaces as desired effortlessly. Want an intimate dining experience? Slide the doors closed. Craving an open flow for entertaining? Slide them wide open.

The flexibility is at your fingertips. Sliding doors are more than functional; they’re an architectural marvel. Their sleek and modern design elevates the aesthetic of your home. They create visual harmony, blending seamlessly into your overall decor. These doors are masters of light manipulation. When open, they bathe your space in natural light, creating an airy and welcoming atmosphere. When closed, they provide privacy without sacrificing the sense of openness. Sliding doors are the epitome of practical elegance. They effortlessly unite different areas of your home, enhancing connectivity and fluidity. The smooth glide and the satisfying click bring a sense of satisfaction and joy. So, unleash the power of sliding doors and unlock the beauty of open space in your home.

 A living space with an open staircase, which is one of the best ways to create an open floor plan in your home.

Furniture Arrangement And Layouts

When it comes to creating an open floor plan, furniture arrangement is your secret weapon. With a well-thought-out layout, you can maximize space and enhance the flow of your home. First, consider the purpose of each area and how they can harmoniously coexist. Strategically place your furniture to create functional zones without obstructing the visual flow. A sectional sofa can act as a subtle divider between the living and dining areas.

Next, use area rugs to anchor each space, adding a touch of coziness and definition. Create sightlines by positioning furniture for unobstructed views from one area to another. This opens up the space, making it feel more expansive and connected. Furthermore, embrace versatility by choosing multifunctional furniture that adapts to different needs. A stylish storage ottoman can serve as extra seating and hide away clutter.

Additionally, consider the traffic flow and ensure pathways are clear and unobstructed. Allow for ease of movement between areas, promoting a seamless transition. Incorporate flexible seating options, such as chairs that can easily be moved around for social gatherings. Experiment with different arrangements until you find the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics. When arranging furniture after relocation, you can arrange your new home to fit your lifestyle. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and mix different styles and shapes. The key is creating a layout that promotes interaction and individual comfort. So, let your creativity soar as you arrange your furniture, transforming your space into a harmonious and open floor plan that reflects your unique style and needs.

Color Continuity

This is the secret ingredient to creating a cohesive and open floor plan in your home. Maintaining a consistent color palette can achieve a harmonious visual flow that unifies the space. Start by selecting a primary color and then choose complementary hues for each area. Whether it’s soothing neutrals, vibrant jewel tones, or earthy tones, the key is to keep the colors connected. Transition smoothly from room to room by incorporating accent colors that tie everything together. Use transition colors like soft gradients or shades that blend seamlessly. The consistent color palette creates a sense of continuity and spaciousness. It’s like painting a beautiful canvas that extends throughout your entire home.

The cohesive colors connect each area visually, making the space open and expansive. Avoid jarring contrasts that break the flow. Instead, opt for subtle variations within the same color family. Consider the lighting in each space to ensure the colors shine at their best. Natural light enhances the beauty of the color palette, while artificial lighting can set the mood. Using consistent colors creates an open floor plan and provides a backdrop for your furniture and decor to shine. It allows your eye to move effortlessly from one area to another without any jarring interruptions.

If you want to expand your living space, you can do a simple basement remodel and turn it into living space with ease. The result is a unified, inviting, spacious, and visually pleasing space. So, let color be your guide as you paint your home with a palette of continuity, transforming your open floor plan into a work of art.

A dining room set and gold decor.

In Summary

By implementing these various techniques, you can achieve a space that is not only visually stunning but also promotes connectivity and versatility. Embrace the freedom of open spaces, where natural light dances effortlessly and the boundaries between rooms blur. Say goodbye to confinement and hello to a sense of spaciousness that enhances both daily living and entertaining. With each step, your home becomes a harmonious symphony of design and functionality. So, let your imagination soar and remodel your living space. Create an open floor plan that reflects your unique style and fosters an environment of openness, unity, and endless possibilities. Finally, get ready to enjoy a home that feels larger, brighter, and more welcoming than ever before.

Whole House Remodeling: A Fresh Start for Your Home and Lifestyle

Imagine a home that perfectly reflects your style, meets your functional needs, and embraces the latest technological advancements. Whole house remodeling offers a fresh start for homeowners, providing an opportunity to transform their living spaces and enhance their lifestyles. It goes far beyond merely cosmetic changes. A well-executed remodeling project can have a profound impact on the functionality and efficiency of a home. It’s not just about creating a beautiful haven; it’s about optimizing every square inch to suit your unique requirements. This article will give you valuable tips for a successful house remodeling project. Whether you’re looking to update an older property or breathe new life into your current home, these insights will help you make informed decisions and turn your vision into a stunning reality.

Caption: When doing the whole house remodeling, don’t forget to enhance the appeal of your curb and overall exterior because it can attract possible buyers.

The Benefits of Whole House Remodeling

Enhancing functionality and comfort: A clear house remodeling plan allows you to reconfigure rooms, add storage solutions, and improve traffic flow, resulting in a more functional and comfortable living space.

Creating a cohesive and harmonious design: Cohesive design choices, such as consistent color schemes, flooring, and architectural details, bring a sense of harmony and visual appeal to your home.

Increasing property value: Upgrading key areas like kitchens and bathrooms, enhancing curb appeal, and incorporating modern features and finishes can make your home more desirable to potential buyers.

Improving energy efficiency: Remodeling your home allows you to update outdated systems and incorporate energy-efficient solutions.

Boosting your lifestyle: A well-executed whole house remodeling project will positively impact your lifestyle. It creates an environment that reflects your taste and supports your daily activities, enhancing your overall quality of life.

Assessing Your Needs and Goals

Before you kickstart your remodeling project, it is crucial to take the time to define your specific needs and goals. Consider various factors, including functionality, aesthetics, energy efficiency, and any plans you may have for your home. Reflect on how you currently use the space and identify areas that need improvement or optimization. Additionally, take into account your personal style preferences and desired ambiance. Understanding these elements will enable you to make informed decisions and prioritize your remodeling efforts effectively.

Equally important is creating a realistic budget and timeline. Set a budget that encompasses all aspects of the project, including materials, labor, and potential unforeseen expenses. Establish a feasible timeline to ensure the project progresses smoothly and complete within a reasonable timeframe. Proper planning at the outset will save you from unnecessary stress and allow for a more efficient and satisfying remodeling experience.

Make a remodeling plan before starting the work.

Creating a Detailed Plan

You need a clear remodeling plan to ensure a result following your initial idea. It allows you to visualize the outcome, more easily convey your ideas to professionals, and minimize potential problems and surprises.

Space planning plays an integral role in optimizing the layout of your home. It allows smart utilization of square footage and ensures that the layout supports your lifestyle and specific needs.

In your detailed plan, include vital elements such as:

Lighting: Consider using natural and artificial lighting sources to create a well-lit and inviting atmosphere in every room.

Flooring: Choose flooring materials that suit the style and functionality of each space, whether it’s hardwood, tile, carpet, or a combination.

Fixtures: Select fixtures that complement the overall design scheme and enhance the functionality of each room, such as faucets, door handles, and cabinet hardware.

Implementation

Throughout the entire implementation phase, maintain open communication with the professionals you’ve hired. Regular updates and discussions will help you realize your idea in the desired way. It also allows for necessary adjustments and ensures prompt addressing of any concerns or changes.

The first phase of implementation is demolition. During this phase, you must remove existing structures and finishes to make way for new ones. It means a lot of mess and an increased chance of damaging your property. Renting storage during the renovation is the best thing to do, as safe storage for your items is essential during this phase. Renting storage will help declutter the space and protect your belongings.

After demolition comes the rebuilding stage. In this stage, your vision takes shape. This phase involves the construction of new walls, flooring installation, cabinetry, fixtures, and any other necessary structural modifications. It requires precise coordination among various professionals, such as contractors, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters.

Use multifunctional furniture to save up some space in your home.

Maximizing Functionality and Efficiency

A whole house remodeling is an opportunity to enhance the functionality and efficiency of your home in various ways. One critical aspect is the implementation of proper storage solutions and organization. Ample storage space reduces clutter and allows a more organized and streamlined living environment. Consider built-in cabinets, shelves, and closets that maximize vertical space and utilize underutilized areas.

Optimize the use of space through smart design choices. Use multifunctional furniture, such as storage ottomans or sofa beds. Open floor plans create designated zones for different activities. Incorporate flexible layouts that can adapt to your changing needs over time.

Incorporating Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology has become an increasingly popular trend in remodeling projects, offering homeowners a range of benefits. Automated systems provide enhanced security, convenience, energy efficiency, and entertainment options. They can monitor your home remotely and receive instant alerts in case of any suspicious activities. Smart lighting allows for customization, energy-saving features, and control of lights remotely. Smart thermostats enable efficient heating and cooling management, optimizing energy usage and reducing utility bills. Modern home entertainment systems are seamlessly integrated and provide immersive experiences. When incorporating smart home devices into your remodeling project, consider popular options such as voice-controlled assistants, smart locks, smart thermostats, and wireless speakers. Smart home technology elevates your living experience and brings convenience and efficiency to your daily life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whole house remodeling offers a transformative opportunity to enhance your home and lifestyle. By assessing needs and goals, hiring professionals, creating a detailed plan, maximizing functionality, incorporating smart home technology, and considering key elements, you can create a home that truly reflects your vision. So, take the first step towards your dream home and unlock the potential of house remodeling to elevate your living experience. With careful planning and execution, you can enjoy a beautiful, functional, and personalized space that brings joy and comfort to your everyday life.

17 Remodeling Projects You Might Need to Make If You Have Children

Children are a blessing, but they push your home to the limits. They need plenty of space and storage. Plus, the house that felt perfectly safe when you first found it looks like a nightmare waiting to happen once you introduce kids to the mix.

Moving may not be the best option for a growing family in today’s economy and real estate market. Transforming your current home is likely more financially manageable and prevents the upheaval of a move. You can stretch your budget further by spreading the projects throughout your kids’ growth. Accommodate the different needs of each age and stage with these home remodeling projects.

Babies

Before you bring your first baby home, you need to make some initial safety adjustments. You also want to maximize your current space’s functionality and wrap up unsafe projects for little ones.

1.   Prepare the Nursery

Prepping the nursery is the most exciting project on the whole list. You’re transforming a room into the perfect space for your new little one. Revamp the closet, making plenty of room for all the baby gear. Install a dimmer switch so you can control brightness for nighttime feedings. Finally, ensure the room is up to your safety standards.

2.   Update the Entryway

Babies need lots of stuff, so traveling can get challenging. Make things easier on yourself by updating your entryway. If your floorplan allows, expand the usable space so you have more room to set down the diaper bag and other accouterments. Adding a storage bench lets you tuck away extra shoes and have a place to sit down.

3.   Fix Staircases

The steps into your home and heading upstairs or downstairs are all possible safety hazards. Loose boards on your steps are a serious problem. Hammer in any loose nails and secure carpeted treads to avoid an accident.

4.   Finish Painting Projects

Paint can completely transform a space, but it’s also loaded with toxic fumes. Even low-VOC options are harsh on a baby’s lungs. Prevent breathing problems by wrapping up any desired painting projects before your baby arrives. Otherwise, you may need to stay in a hotel or with family for a few nights to clear the fumes.

Toddlers

Once your child can crawl, you start seriously rethinking your home’s safety. Toddlers will go everywhere and get into everything.

5.   Refinish Floors

Just as rickety stairs posed a problem when you were carrying your little one, floors are a safety risk for mobile toddlers. Hardwood floors offer durability other options can’t match. You’ll need to designate an area in your home to store the supplies since the materials need at least three days to acclimate before you can install them. Strategically add area rugs to cushion your toddler’s knees in areas they crawl frequently.

6.   Open the Floor Plan

A mobile toddler can get into trouble quickly. Improving the sight lines in your home will give you peace of mind and keep your little one safer. Talk with a contractor to see which walls you can safely knock down.

7.   Revamp the Laundry Room

Toddlers go through so many outfits a day, and their clothes are slowly getting bigger and bigger. The amount of time you spend in your laundry room will increase from here, so now’s the time to treat yourself to a laundry room makeover. Install a counter for accessible folding space and add shelving to hold all the stain-treating products you need.

8.   Child-Proof Outside Spaces

Your toddler is old enough to begin playing outside but still too young to make smart decisions while out there. Remove toxic plants because your little one will sample them at least once. If you live near a busy road, consider installing a fence or hedge around the property as additional protection. Pools should also be behind locked gates.

Preschoolers

If you thought babies came with a lot of stuff, just wait for the toy explosion that comes with having a preschooler. Kids who attend daycare will also bring home a stack of their “art” daily. Your home needs ways to accommodate the increase.

9.   Install Built-Ins

You’ve probably realized by now storage is your best friend and defense against a chaotic house. Built-ins will add character to your home and solve your “stuff” problem. Once in place, use baskets and containers to keep things looking tidy.

10.        Build a Breakfast Nook

Once the days of highchairs are behind you, your family is more likely to congregate in the kitchen for mealtimes. Building a breakfast nook in the corner of your kitchen is an excellent solution for keeping everyone together. If you don’t have enough space, add tall chairs around your island to create an eat-in kitchen.

11.        Set Up a Designated Play Area

The amount of toys increases exponentially when your kids grow into preschoolers. Keep your living room clutter-free by creating a designated play area. You can either transform an unused bedroom, convert an unfinished space or build an addition.

Attics and basements are good possibilities because they provide plenty of square footage and are cheaper than an addition. However, an addition lets you place the playroom where it makes the most sense with the flow of your home.

Elementary and Middle Schoolers

Your school-age kids will need space for hobbies and their school stuff. This stage is about making your home function more effectively for new activities and growing children.

12.        Create a Home Office

A home office can serve dual purposes with school-age kids in the house. It can function as a space for you to get away from the hubbub to work or pay bills in peace. The office also gives a quiet and dedicated area for young ones to do homework.

13.        Improve Kitchen Storage

Growing kids eat a lot, which worsens when they become teenagers. Now is the time to upgrade your kitchen storage. Find a good contractor to discuss ways to increase your pantry size or functionality. If your kitchen is outdated and ready for a remodel, you can also rethink the layout to give you maximum cabinet space and countertops.

14.        Establish a Drop Zone

Between the soccer cleats, dance shoes, instruments and hobby items, you’re drowning in a sea of child chaos. It’s great your kids are at an age where they want to try everything, but you need a solution for the mess. Create a drop zone in your entryway, mudroom or laundry room. You’ll need plenty of storage space to tuck away all the gear. Add a cubby for each child and install coat hooks.

Teenagers

Teenagers long for more space of their own. These home remodeling projects will give them exactly what they’re looking for.

15.        Add or Expand a Bathroom

Teens spend a lot of time in the bathroom. The time it takes them to get ready and shower each day shoots through the roof after childhood.

You’ll notice increased fighting over the bathroom at this stage if you have more than one child. When you’re current setup isn’t working anymore, you can make your life easier by making the existing space bigger by adding a sink and having them share better, or adding a new bathroom.

16.        Create a Teen Hangout Space

The playroom your kids loved needs an update. Your teens are too old for the toys of their childhood and have outgrown the decor, so refresh the room with fun paint. Change out tired and stained carpeting, or refinish wood floors. Adding some lounge furniture and gaming equipment is the cherry on top.

17.        Add a Bedroom

Young kids often like to share a bedroom with siblings. It gives them a sense of safety from the dark and someone nearby to play with. Now that you have teenagers, they may want their own space.

A basement or attic conversion is the perfect spot to add a new bedroom for your teen. Building out over a garage is another possibility, but it will cost you more.

Spread Projects Out to Save Money

Give yourself more time to save for home remodeling projects by completing them as your kids get older. Children have different needs during each phase of their lives. Holding off on particular renovations allows your house to adapt to each stage and keeps more cash in your wallet.

7 Renovations to Consider To Prep For Your Growing Family

Growing your family is an exciting time that changes all parts of your life — including your home. If your house accommodates fewer family members than you’ll soon have, there are several adjustments you can make. Here are seven renovations to consider as your family grows to keep everyone safe and happy.

1.   Bathroom

When your home has more people, you can benefit from more bathrooms. Everyone needs to use them and fighting for space is often the cause of stressful mornings. Having separate bathrooms for kids and adults increases the likelihood that everyone can enter when necessary.

You can add a bathroom almost anywhere with access to plumbing and electricity. Adding a half-bath could be a great choice if you have a spare closet. Many people put a bathroom in their laundry room since there’s easy water access and some already have sinks.

Due to the potential risks, hiring a licensed contractor is best if you need rewiring or significant plumbing changes. Depending on the size of your bathroom, you can section off the toilet, sink and bathtub to allow multiple people to use the space simultaneously.

2.   ADU

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a separate unit on your property you can use for many things. Adding or renovating an ADU can benefit your growing family in many ways.

When you have a new baby, family members may offer to come and help out — especially if you have other kids. This unit gives you and your guest space, serving as a separate home when someone needs it.

As your kids grow up, they might want a space to hang out with their friends and have sleepovers. ADUs help them feel independent while still being under your watch. For teenagers, these units are perfect for introducing what it’s like to live in their own place. It allows them to learn about and try new life skills while you’re around to help.

3.   Playroom

If you’re expecting a baby, it’s time to think about where they’ll play as they grow. A playroom is a hub for young kids to move around and express their creativity. You can quickly renovate almost any room to be a playroom.

Remove potential dangers like window blinds with cords, and consider covering hardwood or cement floors with a softer material like linoleum or carpeting. You can install shelves to store toys and art supplies. A table allows them to create, while an open floor space will enable them to play with their toys however they choose.

If you enjoy colorful walls, a playroom is the perfect place to implement them. You could even use magnetic or chalk paint that increases the number of play surfaces.

4.   Yard

If you have a lot of private yard space, you can let your children run and play without as much worry as a public park or playground can cause. However, if having little ones is new to you, there are some things to remember.

Fences are a great way to keep your kids, other people and animals out of your yard. You can choose a grid fence that allows you to see around the perimeter or a privacy fence that limits someone’s ability to see in your yard. You should also add security fencing around pools, hot tubs or anywhere that could be life-threatening to your child if they approach it alone.

Evaluate your landscaping. While you should always watch young children when they play inside, accidents happen. Try to remove any poison oak or ivy from the area. Also, consider eliminating any bushes that grow berries toxic to humans.

5.   Home Office

A home office could be suitable if you work from home, or want a quiet place to pay bills and engage with your hobbies. You can convert a spare bedroom or walk-in closet into an office space. If you have a finished basement, you can add part of it to create a private room. The size of your home office depends on what you’ll do.

Good lighting is ideal for a personal workspace. If you don’t have windows, consider installing an intuitive lighting system to help you switch from alert and productive to calm and relaxed.

6.   Windows

You might not think about your windows, but they can greatly affect your mental health. Natural light is excellent for stress management — a valuable tool when adding more kids to your ranks.

Consider adding windows to naturally dark spaces to give your home more reading and playing locations that don’t waste electricity. Expand windows that show your backyard to get a better view of what all your young ones are doing while outside.

If you transform a room into your child’s bedroom, securing the windows can give you peace of mind. It can keep them from opening one or a sensor can alert you when they do. This update is especially useful if you have little ones on the higher stories of your house and the damage from going out the window is worse.

7.   Kitchen

Growing your family is an excellent excuse to renovate your kitchen. Kids will need access to things like cups, plates and napkins. However, you’ll want them to avoid the stovetop, cleaning products and knives.

If you have a small kitchen, consider expanding by opening up your floor plan. Create sufficient space between your entryway and your range. Get a refrigerator with a front water dispenser children can easily access. Install new shelves up high so kids can reach them and cover sharp edges.

Include a pull-out step stool to help your children reach the sink. Additionally, installing a sink with an automatic sensor could save you water. You could even make a specific area to store a toddler tower so your little one can help you prepare food.

Growing Your Home With Your Family

A happy household means having what each person needs to thrive — including any new arrivals. By renovating to meet your family’s needs, you can create a positive environment for your kids to learn and grow.

The Most Important Home Renovations You’ll Make On Your Home

There are dozens of unique renovations and remodeling projects for homeowners to choose from, but not all are smart investments. Only a handful of renovations consistently increase a home’s property value and give the owners a total return on their investment. Here are seven of the most important renovations you can make on your home.

1.  Kitchen Remodel

A kitchen remodel is arguably the best home renovation you can make. However, it’s essential to make a key distinction between minor renovations and upscale renovations.

As a general rule, a minor remodel is going to add more value to your home than a major upscale remodel. Making practical adjustments is more cost-effective than overhauling the kitchen’s entire design.

According to data from the 2022 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling Magazine, the average minor kitchen remodel earned a 71.2% return on investment and boosted the home’s resale value by more than $20,000. Renovations like these are great places to start:

• Increase countertop space
• Replace the kitchen doors and windows
• Get new cabinets
• Re-tile the flooring
• Install a skylight for more natural lighting
• Put in a ceiling fan for better ventilation

Try to avoid non-essential luxury additions when renovating your kitchen. Fancy countertop materials, colorful backsplashes, and other bells and whistles won’t bring much value to your kitchen. This room is all about functionality.

2.  Bathroom Remodel

Bathroom remodels are important home renovations, but they differ slightly from kitchen remodeling projects. Minor renovations and upscale additions have almost identical average ROIs at 51.8% and 51.5%, according to the 2022 Cost vs. Value report. Although their costs can widely differ, they will give you similar returns.

Since major and minor renovations are equally effective, you have many renovation options. These are some of the most popular bathroom additions:

• Heated tile floors
• Bidet toilet attachments
• Multi-function shower heads
• LED vanity mirror
• Vanities with maximum countertop space
• Low-temperature lighting
• Floating shelves
• Wall art prints

People want to relax and unwind in their bathrooms, which means they love having luxury designs and accessories that enhance their hygiene habits. So, along with updating all the basic fixtures, don’t be afraid to adopt a modern industrial design to make your bathroom look more high-end.

3.  Garage Door Replacement

A garage door replacement doesn’t seem like a massive home renovation, but it has the greatest ROI out of any remodeling project at more than 93%. Considering it only costs an average of $1,188 to replace your garage door, it should be one of the first renovations on your to-do list. There are several big reasons why this project is so valuable for homeowners:

• Boosts curb appeal
• Improves home security
• Blocks outside noise
• Makes heating and cooling more efficient

Although a garage door replacement isn’t as flashy as the other projects on this list, it’s so cost-effective that it belongs in the upper echelon of home renovations. It’s a simple project, but it can significantly improve your home’s appearance and living conditions.

4.  Accessory Dwelling Units

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are unique home renovations. Not only can they increase your home’s value, but they can also give you a passive income stream. Some people use them as rental spaces, while others use them to provide more privacy to family members. In many cases, homes with an ADU sell for up to 30% more than comparable homes without an ADU.

ADUs are incredibly versatile. You have many design options to choose from:

• Detached ADU: standalone unit in the home’s backyard or driveway
• Attached ADU: unit attached to the primary residence
• Above garage ADU: unit built above the garage, often as an extra sleeping area for relatives.
• Garage conversion ADU: unit converted from a traditional garage to a new bedroom, bathroom or workspace
• Basement conversion ADU: underground unit attached to the primary residence through a new separate entrance
• Attic conversion ADU: unit converted from an attic to a new living space, accessible through a private outdoor stair

Choosing the right ADU for your home’s layout is the key to getting a good ROI.  Detached ADUs are the most popular, but they’re also the most expensive to build. A conversion ADU might be in your best interest if you have a dusty old attic or unfinished basement.

5.  Energy-Efficient Appliances

You can never go wrong by renovating your house with new energy-efficient appliances. A few simple additions here and there can significantly increase your property value by increasing energy efficiency, lowering utility costs and improving the home’s quality of life. The following appliances with EnergyStar certifications have the most significant savings potential:

• Refrigerators: $200 during the product’s life span
• Dishwashers: $130 yearly on water costs
• Dehumidifiers: 30% more savings than non-EnergyStar models
• Washing machines: $370 during the product’s life span
• Dryers: $20 on monthly electricity bills

Energy efficiency in residential and commercial spaces is the most effective strategy for combating climate change. Humans can’t solve this problem overnight, but they can slowly address it by making incremental improvements to their everyday lives. Outfitting your house with energy-efficient appliances is a great place to start.

6.  HVAC System Upgrade

Upgrading your HVAC system is another excellent way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and livability. The Department of Energy recommends an HVAC system replacement every 10–15 years, depending on the system’s condition. You should get an upgrade if your current system is showing these signs of deterioration:

• Too much noise
• Excessive dust in the house
• Inconsistent temperatures from room to room
• Dry air in the winter and humidity in the summer
• Rising energy bills

Like the other aforementioned appliances, HVAC systems with EnergyStar certifications bring the most value. They use 8% less energy than conventional HVAC models, making your home more comfortable, affordable and sustainable at the same time.

7.  Outdoor Hangout Areas

An outdoor hangout area would make a welcome addition to your home. The most popular and cost-effective outdoor renovation is a wooden deck, boasting a 64.8% ROI, according to the 2020 Cost vs. Value Report. Here are some other outdoor additions you should consider:

• Patio, veranda or pergola
• Pool or hot tub
• Exercise area
• Basketball court
• Tennis court
• Nature path

However, an outdoor renovation can also backfire if it’s not appropriate for the climate. For example, a swimming pool won’t bring much value to a house in Alaska, but it’s a fantastic addition to a Florida house. Remember to consider your local environment when deciding which outdoor space to add.

Take These Renovations Seriously

Most home renovations are fun side projects people can do if they have a few thousand dollars to spend. However, these renovations are not side projects. They can significantly increase your home’s value and make your property the most coveted lot in the neighborhood. If you want to make one of these renovations, you must take them seriously.