In recent years, our homes have regained prominence as the place where life happens, not just where we recharge between activities and errands. Additionally, the shifting sand of our current economy and housing market has dramatically slowed down relocation to find “the next best thing.” Since the ultimate home trend is making the best of what you’ve got, people are taking a creative look at living spaces and their function, and some incredibly versatile- and practical- ideas have emerged as a result.
Homewise Roofing and Exteriors has collected some of this summer’s most popular exterior remodeling ideas to provide you with inspiration for your own home’s next upgrade.
1. Sharing the Space
The skyrocketing cost of living has made it impossible for many people to afford home ownership. Rather than renting, many are adopting a more practical solution. Multigenerational households are on the rise, with parents moving in with their children and vice versa. Young adults are not leaving home as early as they might have once done.
To enable these family members who once lived independently of one another to coexist with some degree of privacy and autonomy, many are choosing to add new entryways into their homes, as well as driveways extensions and new parking areas. When possible, they are adding second kitchens and living rooms by repurposing existing spaces. Playrooms may be transformed into studio apartments and dining rooms become bedrooms.
2. Safety and Efficiency Upgrades
Extreme weather incidents and extreme temperatures seem to be on the rise. With added concerns for safety and durability of homes, many are opting for exterior upgrades. New roofs with enhanced insulation technology and severe weather fortifications, as well as triple-insulated windows, and new, more durable siding are all ways to gain peace of mind, keep nature at bay, and make controlling the climate of the home more energy efficient.
3. Biophilic Design in Exterior Remodeling
When the world shut down for Covid-19, we began to look afresh at our connection with nature. Incorporating natural elements and making home harmonious with the environment became the goal of biophilic design. The trend of bringing the outdoors inside and living as close to the outdoors as possible continues to be good for our minds, bodies, and spirits.
Exterior remodeling can help achieve this. Install larger picture windows to replace the ones that currently line your walls. Enhance access to porches and decks with double French doors that can be thrown wide open, making one continuous indoor-outdoor space.
4. Backyard Sanctuaries
People are also opting for the addition of private, backyard spaces and cozy patios. Often these are added as extensions of bedrooms or are tucked into cozy nooks where the edges of the home meet.
Where existing outdoor spaces lie, homeowners are taking them to the next level of luxury and enjoyment. Decks are being transformed into outdoor kitchens and bars, and children’s play spaces are upgraded into game rooms. Cold plunge pools, workout spaces, and meditation gardens all elevate the experience of home life, making your day off feel like a vacation, right there in your own zip code.
5. Additional Rooms
A natural outflow of our focus on making the best of our homes is an uptick in addition of practical rooms and multipurpose spaces. Home gyms, spas, home offices, playrooms, and additional guest rooms are all popular ways to expand your living space.
If you want to get the most out of your investment in an additional living space, consider the way your family lives and operates. How would you complete this statement, “Home would be a much better place to be if only…?” Perhaps your long-distance friends and relatives would come and visit more often if you had an additional guest room. Perhaps you would get more done on your work- from- home days if you had your own office…not the kitchen table. Maybe your frustrations over toys scattered about the house could be eliminated if the kids had a play space of their own. As you consider your options, think about ways to make home more peaceful and functional.
6. Smart Technology
Indoor living has gotten very “smart” in recent years. We now have systems to make every facet of living in our homes easier. Why not extend that same technology and convenience to your outdoors? Consider upgrading your irrigation system, your entertainment, and your outdoor lighting with the same technologies you’ve been enjoying indoors.
7. Color is Back
After many years of dull neutrals and drab grays, people are ready to see color again. You can upgrade your exterior by installing new siding in a visually pleasing color. By doing so, you add personality, curb appeal, and interest to your home. The same can be true with shutters, trim, and accents on your home’s exterior. Earthy tones and natural colors that mimic what the outdoor world already offers are very popular right now, but so too are pops of brightly colored accents and geometric patterns. Ultimately, it’s your home, so bring in the colors that bring you joy.
We’re Here to Help
Whatever exterior remodeling project you have in mind, Homewise Roofing and Exteriors is here to help. We can take care of those windows, doors, and all the exterior features of that addition you are planning to build. We would love to partner with you to make your home your favorite place to be. Give us a call to set up your consultation today!
