January 12th, 2002
By Jane Marsh
Guest Writer for Wake Up World
Home improvement projects will likely increase as the housing market booms through 2022. In fact, the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies released an annual report suggesting residential renovations could reach $400 billion by the fall of next year.
Home renovations are proving to be an excellent way to customize your living space for years to come. It ties into the desire for cost-saving, environmentally conscious living.
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Renovating your home can make your everyday life more efficient and comfortable. Here are seven projects to consider for your next home upgrade.
1. Natural Light
Indoor living has become the norm in the last two years, prompting homeowners to find creative ways to bring the outside in. You can enhance your mood and reduce energy costs by adding multiple window banks for natural light.
Design plays a vital role in maximizing natural lighting for your home. Depending on the room, you may consider creating entire walls of windows that let in a cross breeze or views. Another option is to insert skylights.
As the sun shifts throughout the day, window height can also provide more privacy and transform a room with brightness and shadows.
2. Sustainable Floors
The global dialogue surrounding sustainability has progressed in recent years. As such, homeowners are investing in sustainable materials for their 2022 remodeling projects.
Natural, durable floors manufactured with less environmental impact have grown in popularity. For example, linoleum, cork, bamboo or engineered hardwood flooring like maple or oak can give your home an organic, nontoxic look and feel.
Homeowners have plenty of options when refurbishing their homes with sustainable floors, such as eco-friendly finishes and recycled materials to match their design tastes better.
3. Energy Efficiency
Homeowners are getting smarter about installing energy-efficient technology and appliances in their homes. It’s recommended that you replace your current system with a newer model, especially if you live in a warmer climate or run your air conditioner year-round.
The initial costs of these advanced HVAC systems are more expensive. However, prioritizing these upgrades can provide substantial long-term savings in electricity and energy consumption.
Today’s innovative technologies are usually compatible with your phones and tablets, as well. Features may include remotely maintaining your thermostat or adjusting the temperature in a room based on occupancy.
4. Storage Space
The need for more storage space has been a popular trend in home remodeling projects, but never as much as it is now. In 2021, for example, 28% of kitchen renovations included adding extra cabinetry.
There are several ways to enhance your storage capacity. Cabinets and drawers can provide plenty of out-of-sight storage, while walk-in closets and larger pantries are also becoming more popular.
Other options include floating vanities, linen closets, dedicated laundry or mudrooms, and built-in bench seating with hinged lids.
5. Home Offices
According to the Houzz Emerging Home Design Trends Report, more companies shifted to remote work during the pandemic, and searches for home offices were up by 108% in 2021. Although several businesses have reopened, homeowners still want a quiet, flexible workspace at home.
As you begin to plan for your home office renovation, consider the following:
- Do you want windows for natural light or a view?
- Do you need a door or screen for privacy?
- Can this be a shared space for your partner’s work or your kids’ homework?
- Do you need storage space, such as a closet or a built-in bookcase?
- How much space do you need to fit your work accessories?
A functional home office is essential. However, a shared office and guest room may prove to be disruptive if you have company.
6. Kitchen Upgrades
Kitchen renovations will likely include clean, minimalist designs that anchor the home.
Projects creating open floor plans decreased from 53%-43% from 2019 to 2021, but homeowners still want kitchens that look and feel larger. Extended backsplashes and cabinetry that reach the ceiling draw the eyes upward. Other designs may feature painted islands against neutral grays, whites and pastel colors.
Upgraded faucets can also boost water efficiency and offer features like touch-free activation.
7. A Hint of Color
Neutral color palettes usually provide rooms with a soothing, airy feel. It’s forecasted that in 2022, remodelers will opt for paint that rejuvenates their home instead.
Homeowners will likely move away from all-white walls, learning toward creamier beiges, earth-inspired tones, charcoal accents or neutral blues instead. These shades make a fresh, bold statement that is still easy on the eye and maintains a sense of tranquility.
Blue paint with gray undertones goes well with other neutral and natural accents. Consider creamy upholstered chairs, rattan-textured lampshades, and exposed or natural wood.
Consider These Popular Renovation Projects in 2022
Renovating your home can be a fun and rewarding experience. Consider these popular upgrades and alterations if your house needs a new look or expanded functionality in the coming year.
About the author:
Jane is the founder and editor-in-chief of Environment.co where she shares practical tips on how to live a greener life.
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