Top Home Remodeling and Interior Design Trends of 2014

Angie's List recently published the results of its survey with remodelers and interior designers about the trends they are seeing in 2014. They found that homeowners are most interested in making strategic improvements to boost functionality, increase efficiency and take advantage of existing space. Opening up the kitchen. Removing a wall between the kitchen and an adjoining room remains one of the hottest trends in home remodeling. The project appeals to homeowners because it instantly creates more space and dramatically changes the look and feel of the home. Installing hardwood flooring in the kitchen. Although hardwood usually costs more than other flooring options, it offers durability and a cozy, timeless look that never goes out of style. Customizing the home. Homeowners are making targeted improvements to ensure the home is a good fit for their lifestyle and family size by turning unused rooms into offices, dens, hobby rooms and children's play rooms. Separating the shower and tub. The days when the shower-tub combo reigned supreme are long gone. Home remodelers say the latest trend is to ditch the tub altogether, or to keep it separate from the shower. Combining old and new styles. A hot design trend in 2014 involves juxtaposing old and new concepts. In today's trendy home, a stainless steel refrigerator might sit next to a farmhouse sink or an antique chandelier might illuminate an IKEA bookcase. Remodelers also report an increased demand for recycled building materials, which they say can enhance old-meets-new design. Going greener. Green home improvements have been trendy for years, but remodelers and designers say homeowners continue to strive to improve the efficiency of their homes - from installing home automation systems that prevent energy waste to replacing outdated light bulbs and shower heads.

Remodeling Your Home? Make It More Energy Efficient!

Remodeling is a great way to make your home more comfortable and attractive. It also provides an opportunity to improve energy efficiency, helping to reduce energy costs and protect the environment. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started.

Kitchen. Save energy in the kitchen by installing ENERGY STAR qualified appliances, such as refrigerators and dishwashers. Consider high-efficiency, light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures and lamps for under-cabinet lighting. LEDs not only use less energy than conventional lamps; they last much longer and are more durable.

Bathrooms. Conserve water and reduce water heating costs by adding low-flow showerheads and aerated faucets. While you are at it, seal air leaks and install the appropriate insulation in the walls behind tubs and showers. Finally, control moisture and save energy by installing ENERGY STAR qualified ventilation fans. 

Room additions. Use advanced framing techniques to lower costs and improve energy efficiency, and to reduce the amount of materials needed and minimize waste. Advanced framing replaces lumber with insulation material, increasing the overall insulation value of entire walls. Install ENERGY STAR qualified windows, doors, and skylights, and make sure outside walls are insulated to recommended levels to maximize energy efficiency.

Basement. Finishing your basement not only adds living space for your family, it is an opportunity to reduce energy costs as well. Add insulation to basement walls and crawl spaces based on the levels recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy. Seal air leaks around all plumbing and wiring holes on outside walls and in the crawlspace. Replace older, single-pane windows with glass block or ENERGY STAR certified high-performance windows.

For more energy-saving ideas and remodeling tips, see Home Design & Remodeling from the U.S. Department of Energy.

This article previously appeared in the Richmond DPU The Gas Advantage newsletter, and is used with permission.