Home Improvement and Renovation Trends on the North Shore
Since the pandemic began, we’ve experienced many lifestyle changes. Ultimately these changes are reflected through home improvement and renovation trends. Check out some of the latest home improvement and renovation trends on the North Shore of Massachusetts, overall stemming from our ever-changing lifestyles.
Office Space
In recent years, we have all seen an uptick in remote and hybrid work. With this came an increased need for in-home office spaces and this trend of dedicated workspace is set to continue as remote work is here to stay. Homeowners may build their own dedicated home office space to accommodate these working conditions when renovating homes in the future. Sheds and garages can even be built or converted into office space for those without a standard 9 to 5 desk job looking to work from home!
Home office renovations may also include revamping pre-existing workspaces with more comfortable furniture and functional features to support a remote work environment like more storage and organization options for cords, appliances, and supplies while working.
Outdoor Living
By improving and renovating outdoor spaces, homeowners are maximizing their liveable space. Nicer weather brings on projects set to create outdoor space that is both comfortable and functional. This may include decks, patios, porches, and gardens. Outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas are also a popular trend – do you want to have a grill or maybe even an outdoor pizza oven? Are you going to be your own outdoor bartender while you and your friends watch movies on your new TV? There are so many options to customize your outdoor living spaces to your preferred lifestyle!
Open Floor Plans
Are open floor plans on their way out the door? Days during the pandemic included working, relaxing, and family-focused activities likely all in the same room. While the open floor plan provides openness for multitasking and connectivity, homeowners are beginning to realize the benefits of having separate spaces for all of life’s activities. New remodels including rooms allow privacy for remote work, school, and any virtual meetings. Additionally, individual rooms allow for more diverse design choices within your home. If you’re struggling to get this effect with a preexisting open floor plan, try separating your areas with bookshelves, screens, other decorative items, or even your furniture layout.
Energy Efficiency
We are likely to continue to see more energy efficiency in homes as owners attempt to cut energy costs. A new HVAC technology, called variable refrigerant flow systems (VRF systems), is on the rise. These systems are able to heat and cool different areas of a building simultaneously. They are highly versatile and offer more efficiency and zoning capabilities than traditional systems, leading to better comfort wherever they are used. The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act provides additional benefits to an eco-friendly home as it includes tax benefits for more sustainable home energy products, including the installation of solar panels.
Coastal Touches
Because the North Shore is full of coastal towns and communities, coastal touches tend to find their way into home design trends in the region. Whether they are in one room or sprinkled throughout the entire home, coastal color palettes, relaxed and comfortable materials, and New England-themed accents help create a peaceful environment that will never go out of style.
Whether you are buying, selling, or renovating your home, you need the right resources. Over the last 20+ years as a realtor, I have worked with amazing individuals who will make the home improvement and renovation process as seamless as possible. Get access to my list of trusted partners here! If you are looking to buy or sell a home on the North Shore, contact me today.
