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From creating spaces for the soul, not for resale, to the rise of the smart home, find out what will be top-of-mind for homeowners this year.

“The golden era of renovation?” Well, it just might be in 2024. Blend together daily routines still finding their footing after the pandemic and a dollop of economic uncertainty, and the notions of home, work, comfort, and connections have taken on some new meanings.

Rejuvenating our physical spaces and infusing them with a fresh sense of optimism and change makes a lot of sense. Here are the five trends to watch for this year:

1. America is Ready to Renovate

What do you get when you mix high housing costs, volatile—sometimes surging—interest rates, and a somewhat limited for-sale inventory? This year, the result is (at least compared to more recent history) a practical nationwide standstill in home sales.

But, as the saying goes, when one door closes, another opens, and in this case, the open door is an increased interest in renovations. Let’s dive in to two of the factors at play:

For starters, the dramatic increase in interest rates is persuading current homeowners to stay put. Just one data point: A recent survey by Zillow indicates that homeowners with mortgage rates below 5% are almost twice as likely to remain in their current homes.

Secondarily, the housing market is flooded with aging properties. Homes that are 20-39 years old have reached what is considered “prime remodeling age,” typically a time when homeowners consider renovations. And these houses are only getting more prevalent. By 2027, according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), the number of homes falling into this age bracket is projected to peak at 24.2 million.

So, while your neighborhood might have a lot fewer For Sale signs this summer, there’s a good chance you’ll see a few more subcontractor vans around your block.

2. The Need to Navigate Climate

What do you get when you mix high housing costs, volatile—sometimes surging—interest rates, and a somewhat limited for-sale inventory? This year, the result is (at least compared to more recent history) a practical nationwide standstill in home sales.

But, as the saying goes, when one door closes, another opens, and in this case, the open door is an increased interest in renovations. Let’s dive in to two of the factors at play:

For starters, the dramatic increase in interest rates is persuading current homeowners to stay put. Just one data point: A recent survey by Zillow indicates that homeowners with mortgage rates below 5% are almost twice as likely to remain in their current homes.

And sometimes climate migration works the other way, too. Redfin reports a sustained and substantial interest in cities like Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Miami, driven by more affordable housing options. Homeowners in these areas are renovation-ready, too, but are more likely to explore options and projects aimed at reinforcing their homes against extreme weather phenomena such as high winds, heavy precipitation, and rising temperatures.

3. Seamless Living: The Future of Smart Home Connectivity

You don’t have to ask ChatGPT to know that in just a year, technology and artificial intelligence (AI) have made significant advancements, promising unparalleled efficiency, comfort, and convenience both within and outside the home. (Sadly, robot butlers still seem a long way off.)

Home products are increasingly leveraging AI to adapt to habits and daily routines, offering a level of personalization and assistance, as well as seamless integration. Smart homes can make multi-sensory environmental changes by taking everything from temperature, lighting, and airflow to sound, scents, and more, into account.

Think products like the Marvin Awaken, a skylight that opens to allow in fresh air and can change the lighting of a room via its built-in LED technology. Busy households are now able to enjoy a more comfortable environment without the need to really think about opening windows, adjusting the thermostat, or changing the lighting. Automation is on the case.

Making their homes more energy efficient is also an aspiration for homeowners, and smart home technologies can help achieve this goal, whether by reducing costs or minimizing carbon footprints long-term, and they may enjoy a tax incentive for doing so. Renovations that upgrade with smart-home solutions that enhance energy efficiency show no sign of slowing down.

And for some, security is a top priority, and the adoption of connected devices such as alarm systems, cameras, lighting, and locks, all of which can be monitored and controlled remotely, continues to rise. Add in enhanced energy efficiency and it’s easy to see why smart homes and smart home products continue to be on many renovators’ must-have lists.

4. Creating Spaces for the Soul, Not the Resale

It’s a cliché nearly as ubiquitous as “location, location, location.” Ask any number of homeowners, builders, designers, and realtors why they’re embarking on a remodel project and you’ll likely hear: “resell.” And while resale considerations are still valid, a transformative shift is underway. Simply put, people are placing an increased value on their happiness and not an eventual sale price.

Design considerations that support this shift place a premium on creating spaces that are calm, tranquil, and support well-being. While this emphasis isn’t new per se, it continues to gain steam as the emphasis on our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual connections to our homes change.

These well-being initiatives take on a variety of shapes. Lighting, particularly the incorporation of natural light, is one major focus. Natural light isn’t just about aesthetics; it has the power to elevate moods, infuse a sense of vitality, and offer a fresh perspective.

Recognized by sleep scientists for its role in regulating daily rhythms, natural light supports not only physical health but also our emotional and social selves.

“Of course, a primary benefit of windows and glass doors is our ability to take in natural light from the comfort of our favorite spaces at home,” said Christine Marvin, chief marketing + experience officer at Marvin. “In fact, studies show that the more we expose ourselves to natural light, the better it is for both our alertness and sleep cycles.”

Along with light, the desire to embrace the serenity of natural views is on the rise for homeowners. Various studies support the idea that connecting with nature positively influences mood, fostering optimism, and providing an energy boost that contributes to overall well-being. Our attraction to nature has also spurred the popularity of biophilic design, whether it involves incorporating plants and natural materials in the home or using items that emulate the colors, textures, or patterns found in nature.

Speaking of color, it plays an outsized role in how a home feels. As the 2024 palette emerges, color forecasts are leaning into serene and calming hues, balanced by warmer, earthy tones. Paint companies and color authorities like Pantone are steering toward hues that not only soothe but also awaken the senses, foster optimism, and support the pursuit of balance.

5. The Importance of Aging-In-Place Design

It’s easy to see the appeal of staying in your existing home as you grow older. Comfort, convenience, and familiarity all play a role. But if aging in place is the plan, it’s an important consideration when it comes to home renovation projects. While many older homes are ill-equipped for safe, accessible living as we age (and often need large-scale modifications), these renovations can be some of the most beneficial changes over time.

Enhancing living spaces for the long-term means thoughtful design elements and modifications. Optimized lighting that boosts visibility and reduces fall risks by incorporating additional windows is key, and is especially important for those with aging eyesight.

No project should skimp on the idea of getting around safely. Widening both interior doorways and exterior entries to better accommodate walkers and wheelchairs, implementing zero-threshold entries and flush sills to eliminate tripping hazards and enhance accessibility are just a few examples. It might seem like a small change, but aging or arthritic hands need ergonomic considerations. Door, drawer, and cabinet handles with a lever-style design offer comfort and ease of use. And where these handles are placed makes a difference. Windows with the option to put hardware in a lower position on the sash means they’ll be accessible from a seated position.

And if you need to prioritize areas for spending, think kitchens and bathrooms. Tailoring counter and window heights in the kitchen makes a huge difference in comfort and convenience, while in the bathroom, having fixtures accessible is a necessity, along with adding features like walk-in showers and strategically placed grab bars enhance safety and ease of use.

A New Era for Homeowners

So, with the “golden age of renovation” upon us, homeowners’ relationships with their living spaces are undergoing a significant shift. The confluence of an aging housing stock and a willingness to stay in existing homes will help drive remodel momentum. Mix in a growing interest in technological advancements, a focus on well-being through thoughtful design, and practical modifications to facilitate aging in place, and you have an environment primed for renovation projects.

No matter if you’re planning a massive remodel or some simple updates to make your spaces a bit more relaxing, there’s inspiration and innovation everywhere.

This article originally appeared on the Inspired by Marvin blog.

With twelve styles of architectural doors and countless options for wood types, finishes, and accents, the possibilities for creating a truly unique look are endless! But don’t let the abundance of choices overwhelm you.

TruStile Door’s newly revamped Door Design Tool can simplify the process and bring your vision to life. Design multiple custom doors from the comfort of your home or office and store your creations on your own personal dashboard in the cloud. You can even export your designs to Excel or other programs. Drawings can also be generated and imported into CAD programs. With TruStile, bringing your custom doors designs to life with the following four easy steps:

Multiple Doors

Configure multiple interior or entry doors and save them by project.

Personalized Dashboard

Access a dashboard of all saved door projects.

Door Schedules

Download any project as a door schedule in Excel or other formats.

Export Drawings

Print your drawing or export your door drawings in DXF format to use in a wide variety of CAD programs.

Learn more about TruStile Interior and Entry Doors.

Interior doors should be a natural part of the architectural plan, not just an afterthought; they are an essential part of the overall design.

When you choose TruStile interior doors, you don’t have to settle for cookie-cutter solutions or worry about compromising your design vision because of limitations imposed by standard door manufacturers and suppliers. Authentic Designs® by TruStile helps you select the right door for your home’s architectural style. Each of the 12 Authentic Designs series provides a door selection to complement popular architectural styles, as well as design and material options to help you truly make your designs one-of-a-kind. Plus, each door is crafted to your exact specifications so you know it will fit perfectly into your project without having to compromise on quality or accuracy.

Art Deco

Highly decorative, this eclectic style features geometric shapes and materials like metal and glass to encapsulate the architectural design.

Colonial

Symmetry and balance are the staples of the colonial style of architecture with more formal design choices.

Contemporary

The building style of today, that features oddly shaped frames, clean lines, and natural materials.

Cottage

It makes you think of a home in the English countryside. Small and cozy, the cottage architecture relies on elements such as arched doorways and steep roofs.

Craftsman

Quality workmanship is the epitome of the craftsman home style. Hand-crafted features are a staple in their simplicity and originality, with thick trim as a staple of this style.

French Country

The immaculate decorative detailing and distressed woodwork symbolic of a French Chateau make this style rustic yet chic.

Mediterranean

Arched doorways and windows are vital components of this architectural style that radiates richness and charm.

Modern

Modern home styles emphasize horizontal lines and industrial materials based on the principle that less is more.

Southwest

This Spanish-style architecture is characterized by arched entryways, simple lines, bright, bold colors, and stucco walls.

Traditional

A conservative style that mimics the local community’s beauty means that this style varies from location to location while always keeping its timeless charm.

Tudor

Elegant designs and gentle arches are the main components that work with the steeply pitched roofs and tall windows of this style of architecture.

Victorian

Reliant on intricate ornamentation and detail, this home style is historic, elaborate, and whimsical.

TruStile interior doors provides a door selection to complement popular architectural styles, as well as design and material options to help you achieve a look that is uniquely yours. That’s the level of customization you can expect when you choose TruStile (link to trustile page) doors from Kansas City Millwork.

See our article “Front Door Styles Guide: How To Choose Your Next Front Door” for advice on choosing an entry door.

Brought to you by Marvin.

The modern farmhouse aesthetic is one of today’s popular design choices. But what is it, exactly? And if you choose this look for your home, how can you make sure your windows go with the overall modern farmhouse design?

The modern farmhouse style is equal parts elegance and everyday utility. Walk into a modern farmhouse and you’ll experience an effortless “lived-in” vibe with contemporary features and striking materials all around you. So, how do you achieve a modern farmhouse look for your own home, and when it comes to the windows that fill that space with light, which types of windows complete the modern farmhouse aesthetic? This article will explore these questions and more.

What is the modern farmhouse style?

Harkening back to an era when life was less complicated, modern farmhouse style is, at its core, pure and simple. It uses natural elements in its design, common areas in its architecture, and above all, blends the outside with the inside thanks to its generous use of windows. Vertical elements like standing seam roofs and cedar siding evoke vintage barn structures while the use of contemporary materials elevates the overall look.

Modern farmhouses can have white, natural wood or chalky stone exteriors. They can be one structure, or several small and detached ones linked by breezeways or long sun-filled hallways. A key tenet is to present the architecture as asymmetrical, making the home appear to be comprised of various pieces. The center of the home is often a great open room, anchored by an unadorned hearth that acts to connect the kitchen to the living space.

This popular style can utilize steel, metal materials, and live edge woods as in its new iteration known as the industrial farmhouse. Or it can be a purely white modern farmhouse with neutral colors and rustic woods. Trim is typically minimal or non-existent, and windows are typically unadorned in both styles. It is through these clean sight lines and uncomplicated shapes that today’s farmhouses are defined.

What should I choose for modern farmhouse windows?

According to Marco Vincent, Lead Architecture Consultant in the Marvin Design Lab, black interior double hung windows without simulated divided lites, or grids, are the most complementary selections for the farmhouse design. “Double hung windows can absolutely feel modern – counter to common opinions,” he said. Additionally, windows can be white or a light natural wood clad style to allow the warmth of a wood interior with a low maintenance exterior.

Casement style windows are also common and offer a pleasing view to the outside with the benefits of a larger opening that provides cross ventilation. But whatever style or color is chosen, it is important to adhere to symmetry. If grids are selected, beveled or ogee edges are discouraged. “Grids should be in a square profile with a clean cut,” Vincent said.

What design elements should I use for the farmhouse style?

Rustic, natural, warm, and uncomplicated describe today’s successful modern and industrial farmhouse style. Although both are born of the same concept, the modern farmhouse is “a little cleaner looking with whites and exposed woods,” Vincent said. Industrial farmhouses raise the bar and harken back to the Industrial Revolution with a “glass and steel vibe,” he added.

Currently, black windows and hardware are the most popular choice for builders and homeowners, but gunmetal finishes are on the rise. “It’s a Batman color,” said Vincent. And wood flooring is often used but it needs to look as if it has been there a long time to give it a settled-in appearance.

Natural tones like ivory and cream are preferred for farmhouse décor. To bring interest to the interior, designers will often add texture. The subtle use of boucle, faux fur, and sisal rugs add interest to this soft palette. If color is added, it is in the Scandinavian hues of sky blue and greyish green.

Is the farmhouse style a trend…or here to stay?

“Modern farmhouse design embodies what the next chapter of design is already looking like,” said Vincent, hinting at its longevity. “It is a fusion of ideas and really, for the lack of a better word, Feng Shui. It combines all kinds of elements instead of being chained to a prescriptive style.” Simply put – it is the blending of the very best of traditional and modern.

This article originally appeared on the Inspired by Marvin blog.