Do you feel like your home could use an update? Whether you’re annoyed with your appliances causing your power bills to soar or you’re tired of looking at outdated pastel walls, 2018 has brought a few renovation trends that will bring your house into this decade and beyond. Here are the 6 most popular trends of this year.

1. Universal Design

Universal design, also known as “aging in place” design, makes it possible for people to stay in their homes well into their golden years. In a home with universal design, you’ll see things like wheelchair-accessible open showers instead of bathtubs. There are often also contrasting colours for easy visual navigation and open concept spaces for ease of movement.

2. Eco-Friendly Materials

In 2018, homeowners are looking for more than a simple energy efficiency sticker. They’re concerned about the sustainability of product development, the life cycle of products, and how they affect air quality in their home.

One of the biggest changes happening this year is in flooring options. Bamboo is becoming increasingly popular because it grows quickly and doesn’t require as much land to grow as other hardwoods do. This makes it a more sustainable option. Cork is another eco-friendly option gaining momentum, and is great for sound absorption.

Water consumption is also important if you plan to create a green living space. Homeowners are replacing their water-guzzling toilets and showers with low-flow options. They’re also planting native species of flowers and trees that are already climatized and therefore don’t require as much external water or pesticides to grow.

Additionally, we’re seeing more people upgrading their windows to eliminate air leaks; reducing heating and cooling costs. There is also an increased demand for plant-based paints with no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to minimize indoor air pollution.

3. Luxury Basements

Basements are no longer the damp, cold storage spaces for forgotten household items. The basement has now become a luxurious getaway for homeowners. We’re seeing more requests to renovate basements to be an additional entertainment space, home gym or music room. Adding an in-law suite is also very popular to accommodate aging parents or multi-generational families.

4. The Connected Home

2018 has become the year of making technology a staple in any home renovation. The goal of new tech, is to streamline your life.

New tech will also save you time and money. Here are a few of the most popular options:

• Install USB plugins in the kitchen to charge your phone as you look up recipes or browse the internet while cooking.
• Get a doorbell equipped with a camera. You’ll save plenty of time not answering the door for solicitors!
• Install programmable lighting and thermostats. Both allow you to save on utility bills while giving you one less thing to worry about every day.

5. Colour

Painting isn’t exactly a major renovation, but it has turned into one of the hottest home renovations of 2018. Homeowners are turning away from neutrals like whites, greys and beiges. Now, they’re painting their walls and cabinets bold statement colours that stand out.

Just look at any paint company’s most popular colour of the year. Benjamin Moore’s colour, Caliente, is a rich red that is sure to make a statement. Dulux’s paint colour of 2018 is the deep hue Black Elegant. Valspar’s is the bold Deep Indigo. It seems that the trend of clean interiors is taking a backseat to a colourful, personalized, and homey feel.

6. A Natural Touch

Like in fashion, the 90’s seems to be making a resurgence when it comes to home renovations. Wooden cabinets are back, but homeowners are most interested in reclaimed wood, or wood with a less polished or finished feel. This is different than what was seen over 25 years ago. You’ll also see the more rustic wood look in furniture, cabinets, and wood ceilings.

Are you looking to update your home with one of 2018’s hottest renovation trends? Schedule a conversation with us today!