Here are the top home remodeling and design trends for 2024, as revealed by Houzz.

If you’re considering a renovation or simply enjoy staying ahead of the curve, Houzz has just released their most comprehensive report of the year. The 2024 U.S. Houzz & Home Study presents findings from a survey of more than 30,000 registered Houzz users and provides insights from 2023 renovation projects that are shaping trends for 2024.

The survey, conducted between January and February of this year, covers all aspects of the renovation journey, from initial planning to budgeting, and highlights specific home improvement and decorating projects. It also delves into the generational preferences among Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, and Millennials.

To gain insights into the current state of the renovation industry and how it might influence your choices if you’re about to start a remodel, continue reading for some of the most interesting findings from the survey.

Home Renovation Spending Soars to New Heights

Although many point to the tough economy as a reason to reduce spending, home renovations seem to be an exception. Houzz reports a significant increase in renovation spending in recent years. The median amount spent surged by 60%, from $15,000 in 2020 to $24,000 in 2023. (Houzz defines median spend as the 'midpoint level,' meaning half of renovating homeowners spent more, while half spent less.)

In fact, more than half of homeowners who renovated (51%) spent $25,000 or more in 2023, a significant rise from 37% in 2020. If you’re considering a renovation soon, these numbers might help you prepare for any potential budget surprises.

Gen Xers Continue to Outspend Other Generations

If you’re a Gen Xer, you’re probably feeling the strain the most during a remodel—Gen Xers have spent the most on renovation projects for the second consecutive year. In 2023, their median spend was $25,000, compared to $24,000 for Baby Boomers. (Houzz categorized generations using Pew Research Center’s age ranges: Gen Zers [18-26], Millennials [27-42], Gen Xers [43-58], Baby Boomers [59-77], and Seniors [78+].)

Kitchen and Bathroom Budgets Are on the Rise

As expected, the kitchen remains the most commonly renovated room, with 27% of homeowners taking on the project. Guest bathrooms and primary bathrooms are also popular, at 25% and 23%, respectively. Not surprising, these spaces are among the most expensive to renovate.

What might be a bit more surprising is the growing amount homeowners are spending on these rooms. Houzz revealed that the median spend on kitchens and primary bathrooms surged in 2022, with another increase in 2023—by 20% and 11%, reaching $24,000 and $15,000, respectively.

We’re Investing Twice as Much Time in Planning

The classic saying 'measure twice, cut once' rings true here—Houzz’s findings reveal that planning now takes far more time than the actual construction. On average, homeowners spend twice as long on the planning phase compared to the building phase across all types of renovations.

The data also provided specific timelines for various projects—kitchen renovations took the longest in 2023, with an average of 9.6 months for planning and 5.1 months for construction. Living rooms followed closely with 8.1 months of planning and 4.1 months of building.

Paint and Lighting Lead the Charge for Popular Purchases

While product purchases during renovations have slowed slightly, one category has stood out in the market: paint. In 2023, 64% of homeowners renovating their homes bought paint, making it the most popular purchase. Surprisingly, lighting followed closely behind, with 52% of homeowners opting for new light fixtures.

Homeowners Are Putting More Money into Heating and Cooling Systems

If you’re planning a renovation, consider upgrading your heating and cooling systems, as many homeowners did in 2023 according to Houzz. The median spend on these systems has risen by 10%, with costs averaging $5,500 for heating and $6,000 for cooling.

Overall, Houzz observes an increase in median spending on various home system upgrades, including electrical, plumbing, automation, and security.

Outdoor Security Features on the Rise

Speaking of home systems, outdoor systems are becoming more popular, especially in the lighting category, where 22% of homeowners made upgrades. Security features, such as cameras and sensors, are also seeing a rise in investment, with 18% of homeowners adding them—up 2 percentage points from last year. Millennials and Gen Xers are the most likely to update their outdoor security, at 21% and 20%, respectively. Clearly, safety is becoming a higher priority for many, with people willing to invest in technology that enhances peace of mind.

Skylights Are Gaining Popularity

We’re all focused on improving natural light, and it's not just about light fixtures as mentioned earlier. Windows and skylights are being upgraded across all age groups—Gen Xers and Baby Boomers are the most likely to enhance their windows or skylights (21% each), while Millennials and Seniors are not far behind (20%).