Home tips, industry trends, and our latest featured projects.
2023 Home Remodeling Surge Explained — Benson Homes
The overwhelming majority of homeowners have decided to keep moving forward with their plans to remodel their bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, exterior areas, and more this year. Learn why in this article.
During times of economic and supply chain uncertainty, many homeowners may wonder if it’s the right time to jump into a remodeling project, or if it’s safer to “press pause” for a bit. But according to a late 2022 survey released by Houzz, the overwhelming majority of homeowners have actually decided to keep moving forward with their plans to remodel their bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, exterior areas and more this year. If anything, they are more eager than ever to keep the ball rolling on the changes they have planned for their homes. In fact, only 1% of homeowners canceled their remodeling plans…and nearly a quarter of homeowners plan to start their home improvement projects in the next 12 months. We’ve seen the same trends among our own local clients, and decided it was worth exploring.
So, what are the factors that are pushing so many homeowners to commit to their remodeling projects this year?
Home availability is dropping but interest rates remain elevated.
The cost of moving to a new home is often much steeper than improving a current home. Mortgage rates hit a peak last year, but they are continuing to trend upwards this year. While the market remains volatile and is still uncertain, more homeowners seem to be making the conscious decision to settle in and apply their finances towards improving their current homes, rather than looking elsewhere or building from scratch.
Remodeling can be a better investment than buying.
Not only can the costs associated with buying a new home be astronomical these days, but the National Association of Realtors says that housing inventory is expected to remain tight in 2023. A large portion of homeowners (67% according to Houzz) are choosing to stay put in their current homes and strategically invest in remodeling projects that will raise their home’s value. This decision, coupled with the housing inventory shortage, can lead to a much higher ROI. So homeowners reap the benefits of living in a newly remodeled home in the short term, while knowing that the funds and time they invested into creating a better home will pay off in the long run, if they ever decide to sell.
Homeowners are ready to create their dream spaces.
The last several years have been tumultuous and full of ups and downs. Homeowners, after spending more time than ever within their own 4 walls, are ready to take their current spaces and fully enjoy them. They don’t want to keep putting off creating their dream homes any longer.
One top challenge the survey uncovered is that a startling 35% of homeowners are struggling to find the right professionals for their remodeling needs. With ongoing supply chain and labor shortages, homeowners beginning the remodeling process should proceed with caution. It is crucial that homeowners ensure that they are working with someone that is experienced and brings lots of knowledge, contacts and expertise to the table in order to help navigate shifting timelines and materials issues. It can be daunting to find the right company for custom remodeling and design, but investing in a home remodel isn’t likely to pay off unless it can be executed with quality design, craftsmanship and materials that will stand the test of time.
If you’re struggling to find the right remodeling partner, or have questions about the scope of what it will take to make your home dreams a reality, schedule a complimentary consultation with Benson Homes by connecting with us here.
Resources:
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/mortgages/mortgage-interest-rates-forecast/
Cozy Winter Home Transition Tips — Benson Homes
Here are three simple ways to transition your home for the upcoming winter months to give it the ultimate, relaxing vibe.
Welcome wreath by local small business, Renee Beamer Harbor & Home.
In the whirlwind of the fun – yet, sometimes chaotic – weeks of gearing up for the holidays, a reprieve from the “parties for hosting” can play a big difference in how we ultimately enjoy the season with our loved ones.
Our homes have the power of becoming an everyday retreat; a source of rejuvenation and solace against the backdrop of the hustle and bustle of store returns, lines at the post office, gift exchanging, office parties, school programs, and more.
As an added bonus, studies show that having a calming “home base” to retreat to in the midst of a busy season can have a profound and positive impact on our mental health.
The fact of the matter is, your home doesn’t have to be located in a secluded mountainside to function as a place of restoration and repose. There are simple updates you can add to your home to give it a cozy feel, all the while keeping up with interior design trends we’re scoping out for 2023.
Here are three simple ways to transition your home for the upcoming winter months to give it the ultimate, relaxing vibe:
Get in Touch with Texture
Of course, a good, old-fashioned blanket and throw pillow can uplevel the coziness of any home. But this season, texture is making a major splash on the home decor scene.
Whether it’s a curated assortment of layered fabrics, or a large, abstract canvas featuring spackled art in neutral, calming tones; touching in with this side of design will build a cohesive, calming feel to any space.
Images below from West Elm
It’s Time to Play With Color
As we head into the colder months, updating an interior wall or two with a fresh coat of paint can make an immediate and lively impact on your space. Current color trends are skewing dark and rich, with an emphasis on high contrast and saturation.
Think earthy, mossy greens, warm creams, and even contrasting black and white as the hues-du-jour. These deep, rich colors will set a relaxing and unwinding tone to any room, especially living and sleeping areas.
CUSTOM-DESIGNED built-in for our client’s cosmetic storage, jewelry, & accessories.
Home remodel by benson homes
Get Bold With Lighting
The weather outside doesn’t need to be frightful to enjoy the natural, golden glow of a fireplace – or a candle or two, for that matter.
As we move into 2023, bold lighting fixtures with natural accents (like stone and wood) are making their way to the forefront of the trends this season. Classic designs with a matte black finish and more art-deco-themed pieces with statement bulbs are making strong, purposeful statements in homes this season.
3D Rendering of a cozy sitting room we remodeled. We upgraded the space by changing the fireplace size & doors, tiling the hearth, staining the brick, and INSTALLING a beautiful custom walnut live edge mantle handcrafted by Shire House Furniture Co. One fun feature is the little door to the right of the fireplace which is used to load wood from the outside.
custom statement lighting piece we designed and built for a client featuring live edge wood and amber glass globes.
Are you ready to make your home the ultimate relaxing retreat? Give us a call at (757) 689-3465 or email info@bensonhomes.com to get started today!
Sources:
https://www.hgtv.com/shopping/news-and-trends/where-to-shop-falls-hottest-trends
https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/home-improvement/painting/paint-trends-fall-2022
https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/lighting/planning/lighting-trends/
Is Your Bathroom Your Oasis?
It’s possible to achieve spa-quality pampering from your own home. Here’s how!
It’s possible to achieve spa-quality pampering from your own home. Here’s how!
Using your bathroom is more than a part of your daily routine. It’s an act of self-care. After all, it’s really only there that you’ll find a few moments a day where you can relax and find some true alone time.
But what if your bathroom could serve as more than just a place to get ready for the day – what if it was a place that could become a true escape, with spa-like features that make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated each time you entered the room?
In this day and age, homeowners are opting for luxurious, yet simple, bathroom features to give themselves a relaxing respite in their own corner of the world.
Here are five major trends we’ve seen in our latest Benson Homes bathroom remodels to consider for your home:
1. For the Shower
First and foremost, homeowners are indulging in some special extras for the shower. They can opt for shower heads that come complete with natural scented oils to enhance their relaxation and indulge in a little aromatherapy while they clean. Additionally, open concepts for showers are on the rise.
2. Backlit mirrors and medicine cabinets
To add a touch of glam to your daily routine, consider optimum, LED backlighting for your mirrors and cabinets. Not only does it add a sense of calming ambience to the room, it’s also quite practical for makeup application, shaving and hair styling.
3. Space-conscious soaking tubs
It’s time to celebrate the tiny tub. More and more, homeowners are getting rid of bulky jacuzzi bathtubs, which are classically difficult to clean and take up a huge amount of real estate in the bathroom. Smaller soaking tubs paired with a separate shower make for both optimum tranquility as well as functionality.
4. Adding a touch of nature
Incorporating materials such as hardwoods, stone, bamboo, plant life and other natural occurring elements to your bathroom remodel can add a splash of Zen to any space. Keeping up with the trend, homeowners are opting for countertops made of quartz to tie the look and feel of the room together.
5. Smart fixtures
The simplest changes to beautify or enhance the quality of your bathroom can stem from updates to your fixtures. Smart toilets, heated flooring, digital faucets, and even shower heads with Bluetooth connections can add a touch of luxury without major renovation overhauls.
Even the smallest changes or updates to your home bathroom can make the biggest impact when it comes to having a secluded and private place to relax.
Are you ready to practice self-care from the comfort of your own home? Give us a call at 757.689.3465 or send us an email at info@bensonhomes.com!
Ferguson Bath & Kitchen Gallery Interview — Benson Homes
NEW interview with Amber White from Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, & Lighting Gallery! Watch to learn about 2020 remodeling trends, and more.
From traditional to contemporary and every style in between, Ferguson offer a vast selection of plumbing, lighting and appliances from today's top manufacturers, beautifully showcased in their state-of-the-art showrooms.
In addition to their unmatched product selection, Ferguson's product experts have years of industry experience and are knowledgeable about the latest product trends and the building and remodeling process. They work with both trade professionals and homeowners to ensure product selections are perfect for every project. Their passion for customer service is easy to see after just one visit to your local showroom.
We love working with Amber and the rest of the Ferguson team!
In an illuminating new video interview, Benson Homes sits down with Amber White from Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, & Lighting Gallery to delve into the heart of 2020 remodeling trends, showcasing the vast array of possibilities that Ferguson brings to the table. This discussion opens a window into the world of home remodeling, revealing trends that blend the traditional with the contemporary and everything in between, offering a comprehensive look at the selection of plumbing, lighting, and appliances from today's top manufacturers beautifully displayed in their state-of-the-art showrooms.
Ferguson: A Beacon in Home Remodeling
Ferguson stands out not only for its unmatched product selection but also for the depth of knowledge and industry experience harbored by its product experts. These experts, who possess a keen understanding of the latest product trends and the building and remodeling process, work closely with both trade professionals and homeowners. Their goal is to ensure that every product selection perfectly complements each project, reflecting Ferguson's commitment to facilitating seamless remodeling experiences.
2020 Remodeling Trends: A Fusion of Style and Functionality
The interview highlights how 2020 saw a fascinating evolution in home remodeling trends, with homeowners and designers alike seeking a balance between aesthetic appeal and functional design. Ferguson's showrooms serve as a testament to this trend, offering inspiration and practical solutions across a wide spectrum of styles. From sleek, contemporary designs that emphasize clean lines and minimalist aesthetics to the warm, inviting nuances of traditional decor, Ferguson caters to every taste and preference.
The Ferguson Experience: Beyond the Products
What sets Ferguson apart in the remodeling industry is not just their extensive product range but the exceptional customer service and expertise they bring to each interaction. Amber White's insights during the interview underscore the importance of personalized service in the remodeling journey. Ferguson’s product experts take pride in their passion for customer service, which shines through in every showroom visit. Their expertise ensures that clients are guided through the selection process with care and attention, making even the most complex projects feel manageable and exciting.
A Partnership Built on Excellence
Benson Homes’ collaboration with Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, & Lighting Gallery epitomizes a partnership built on a mutual commitment to quality, innovation, and client satisfaction. This relationship allows Benson Homes to offer its clients access to Ferguson's comprehensive selection of products, combined with insightful expertise that can transform any space. Working with Amber White and the Ferguson team, Benson Homes continues to bring dreams to life through remodeling projects that reflect the latest trends, backed by a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
The video interview with Amber White from Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, & Lighting Gallery offers a captivating look into the world of home remodeling, marked by a year of innovation and transformation. Ferguson’s commitment to providing a vast selection of top-quality products, combined with their unmatched expertise and dedication to customer service, positions them as a leader in the industry. For homeowners and trade professionals alike, Ferguson represents not just a resource but a partner in the journey of transforming spaces. Through its partnership with Ferguson, Benson Homes reinforces its dedication to delivering not just homes but visions brought to life, where every detail contributes to creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.
Video Interview with Mosaic Home Designs
NEW interview! Join us as we talk with Mosaic Home Design's consultant, Andrea Bennett, about tile trends for 2020 and more. We hope this interview demystify the home remodeling process and shows you how fun the design phase can be!
Mosaic Home Designs brings you products, designs, and solutions for your home. They directly source products including tile & stone, semi – custom and custom cabinetry, hardwood, luxury vinyl tile, plumbing, lighting, shower systems, and more.
We love working with Andrea and the rest of the Mosaic Home Designs team!
Benson Homes continues to bridge the gap between homeowners and industry experts through its insightful video interview series, this time featuring Andrea Bennett from Mosaic Home Designs. This engaging conversation sheds light on the tile trends of 2020, offering homeowners a glimpse into the latest in tile design and how these trends can enhance their home remodeling projects. Mosaic Home Designs, known for their comprehensive range of home products, designs, and solutions, collaborates closely with homeowners to bring their vision to life, making the design phase an enjoyable and creative journey.
2020 Tile Trends: A Fusion of Innovation and Style
The interview with Andrea Bennett unveils the 2020 tile trends that are shaping modern home interiors. This year, homeowners are gravitating towards tile designs that combine both aesthetic appeal and functionality, with a keen focus on creating spaces that reflect their personal style while ensuring longevity and durability. Trends include the use of bold patterns, vibrant colors, and innovative textures, as well as a resurgence of classic styles reimagined for contemporary living.
The Mosaic Home Designs Approach
Mosaic Home Designs stands out in the industry not just for its wide product range, which includes everything from tile and stone to custom cabinetry and luxury vinyl tile, but also for its approach to the home remodeling process. Andrea Bennett emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the design team and homeowners, ensuring that every project is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of each client. This partnership-centric approach demystifies the remodeling process, making it an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.
Beyond Tiles: A Holistic Home Solution
While the focus of the interview is on tile trends, it's clear that Mosaic Home Designs offers much more than just tile solutions. Their expertise extends to semi-custom and custom cabinetry, hardwood flooring, plumbing, lighting, and shower systems, among others. This comprehensive offering ensures that homeowners can find all they need for their remodeling projects under one roof, supported by a team of experts who are passionate about home design.
Andrea Bennett: The Heart of Creative Solutions
The interview offers a personal look at Andrea Bennett, highlighting her passion for design and her dedication to helping homeowners achieve their dream spaces. With years of experience in the industry, Andrea brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to each project, guided by the belief that the home should be a reflection of the homeowner's personality and lifestyle. Her approach is hands-on, working closely with clients from concept to completion.
A Partnership Built on Shared Vision
The collaboration between Benson Homes and Mosaic Home Designs is a testament to their shared vision of making home remodeling an accessible, enjoyable, and creative process for homeowners. Through this partnership, clients benefit from the combined expertise of Benson Homes' remodeling prowess and Mosaic Home Designs' design and product knowledge. Together, they are setting new standards in the industry, turning the dream of the perfect home into a reality.
Conclusion
The video interview with Andrea Bennett from Mosaic Home Designs is a valuable resource for homeowners looking to stay ahead of the curve with the latest tile trends and home design solutions. It highlights the importance of choosing the right partners for your remodeling project, ones who understand your vision and are committed to bringing it to life. With experts like Andrea and companies like Mosaic Home Designs, the journey of transforming your home is not just about achieving the perfect aesthetic but also about enjoying the process every step of the way. Through these collaborations, Benson Homes continues to enrich the home remodeling landscape, one beautiful space at a time.
Video Interview with Coastal Cabinets by Jenna
Tune in for an interview with one of our industry partners Jenna Boseman of Coastal Cabinets by Jenna! In the video below you'll learn about cabinet trends in 2020, what to expect when working with Coastal Cabinets, and a bit about Jenna herself.
Jenna Boseman started Coastal Cabinets in 2015 after more than 15 years in the cabinet industry. Her beautiful custom kitchens are designed and built to suit every need and style. More than just that, though, Jenna wants her company to offer a casual and friendly atmosphere for clients. After all, it’s the relationships she has built along the way in which she most prides herself.
We love working with Jenna and her team!
In an engaging video interview, Benson Homes introduces one of its valued industry partners, Jenna Boseman, the visionary behind Coastal Cabinets. Founded in 2015 after Jenna’s extensive 15-year tenure in the cabinet industry, Coastal Cabinets has become synonymous with custom kitchen designs that cater to every need and style. This feature provides an intimate glimpse into the trends of cabinet design in 2020, the client-centric approach of Coastal Cabinets, and Jenna Boseman herself, whose passion for creating beautiful spaces is matched only by her commitment to forging lasting relationships with her clients.
Jenna Boseman: Crafting Custom Kitchens with Heart
Jenna Boseman's journey in the cabinet industry is a narrative of passion, expertise, and innovation. With over 15 years of experience, Jenna's foray into founding Coastal Cabinets was driven by a desire to not just design kitchens but to create spaces that are the heart of the home. Her designs are not just about aesthetics; they're about creating environments that are functional, welcoming, and reflective of the homeowner's personality and lifestyle.
2020 Cabinet Trends: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
The interview sheds light on the cabinet trends of 2020, highlighting how traditional styles are being seamlessly blended with modern innovations. Jenna discusses how the trend is leaning towards personalization and functionality, with homeowners looking for unique ways to make their kitchens not just visually appealing but also more efficient and comfortable spaces for family gatherings, entertainment, and culinary explorations.
The Coastal Cabinets Experience: Beyond Just Design
Working with Coastal Cabinets is described as a journey that goes beyond the realm of design. Jenna emphasizes a casual and friendly atmosphere, where the focus is on understanding the client's vision and bringing it to life. This client-centric approach is what sets Coastal Cabinets apart; it's not just about delivering a project but about building a relationship. Jenna prides herself on the connections she's made over the years, reflecting a business model that values people over transactions.
Innovative Designs Tailored to Every Need
The video interview showcases Coastal Cabinets' commitment to innovation and customization. Jenna and her team are dedicated to crafting solutions that are tailored to the unique needs and styles of their clients. Whether it's integrating the latest technology into cabinetry or finding creative ways to maximize space, Coastal Cabinets is at the forefront of kitchen design, ensuring that each project is as unique as the homeowner themselves.
A Partnership Built on Shared Values
The collaboration between Benson Homes and Coastal Cabinets is a testament to their shared values of quality, innovation, and client satisfaction. This partnership has resulted in numerous successful projects, with Jenna's expertise in cabinetry complementing Benson Homes' comprehensive approach to home remodeling. Together, they've transformed countless kitchens into spaces that are not just beautiful but are truly the heart of the home.
Conclusion
The video interview with Jenna Boseman of Coastal Cabinets offers invaluable insights into the world of custom kitchen design, highlighting the trends, processes, and personal touch that define their work. Jenna's passion for design and her commitment to her clients shine through, underscoring Coastal Cabinets' role in creating spaces that are not just kitchens but are central to the home's identity and the family's lifestyle. Through its partnership with Coastal Cabinets, Benson Homes continues to underscore its dedication to bringing the best in design and craftsmanship to its clients, one kitchen at a time.
Video Interview with Eubank Design Concepts
In light of Home Remodeling Month, we thought we’d introduce you to some of our industry partners in a series of video interviews. Our first discussion is with Carol Eubank of Eubank Design Concepts. In this video you'll learn about interior design trends in 2020, what to expect when working with Eubank Design Concepts, and a bit about Carol herself.
Carol has worked with the Benson Homes team for over a decade. She has 30+ years of design expertise and is a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). Her depth of knowledge results in remodeling designs that take space planning, finish selections including flooring, cabinets, and architectural elements, and furniture placement into consideration.
We love working with Carol! Be sure to click on the video below and stay tuned for the next one in our series!
In celebration of Home Remodeling Month, Benson Homes embarked on an insightful journey, engaging in a series of video interviews with their esteemed industry partners. Kicking off this innovative series, they presented a conversation with Carol Eubank from Eubank Design Concepts, a collaboration that brings to the forefront the synergy between architectural integrity and interior design flair. This video interview, rich in content and perspective, unveils the evolving landscape of interior design in 2020, the nuanced process of working with Eubank Design Concepts, and an intimate glimpse into the professional ethos of Carol Eubank herself.
The Evolution of Interior Design in 2020
The interview with Carol Eubank, a seasoned interior designer with over 30 years of experience and a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), delves into the dynamic trends shaping interior design in 2020. Carol's insights provide a window into the preferences of homeowners and how these have shifted over the years, reflecting broader changes in lifestyle, technology, and environmental consciousness. This conversation is not just about the aesthetics of design but also about functionality, sustainability, and personalization, which are increasingly becoming focal points for homeowners.
The Eubank Design Concepts Experience
Working with Eubank Design Concepts is a journey into the realm of meticulous design and thoughtful space planning. Carol Eubank's approach to remodeling designs is holistic, taking into consideration not just the physical attributes of the space but also the lived experience of the inhabitants. The interview highlights how Carol and her team prioritize space planning, finish selections—including flooring, cabinets, and architectural elements—and furniture placement to create harmonious, functional, and visually appealing living environments.
Carol Eubank: The Visionary Behind the Designs
The video interview offers a rare look at Carol Eubank, not just as a designer, but as a visionary who has devoted her career to transforming spaces into reflections of the people who inhabit them. Her passion for design and her commitment to excellence have made her an invaluable partner to Benson Homes for over a decade. Through the interview, viewers gain insight into Carol's design philosophy, her inspirations, and the joy she finds in bringing her clients' visions to life.
A Collaboration Built on Excellence
The partnership between Benson Homes and Eubank Design Concepts exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between architectural remodeling and interior design. This collaboration ensures that every project they undertake is a testament to their shared commitment to quality, innovation, and client satisfaction. The video interview is not just an exploration of design trends and processes; it's a celebration of a partnership that has enriched the homes and lives of countless individuals.
Looking Forward
As the first in a series of video interviews, this conversation with Carol Eubank sets a high bar for the discussions that will follow. Benson Homes' initiative to highlight their industry partners through these interviews is a testament to their holistic approach to home remodeling. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration, expertise, and shared vision in creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply personal and reflective of the homeowners' lifestyles and aspirations.
In conclusion, this video interview with Carol Eubank by Benson Homes is more than just a discussion about interior design trends and methodologies. It is a nuanced portrayal of the art and science of design, a reflection on the collaborative process of remodeling, and a tribute to the individuals who dedicate their lives to the craft of transforming spaces. It invites viewers to explore the possibilities of their own homes, to see beyond the visible, and to imagine the potential that lies within, waiting to be uncovered and brought to life.
Remodeling Trends For Coastal Homes
The Benson Homes team has been remodeling coastal homes for more than 30 years and in that time we’ve seen some interesting shifts in remodeling trends. One major change over the years has been the movement from formal, divided living floor plans to open and casual spaces. Another is the shift in preferred color palettes from dark wood finishes and deep colored granites to lighter and more neutral color schemes accented with weathered woods. We love designing remodels for coastal homes and have embraced the functional and aesthetic changes that homeowners are seeking today. Here are some of the popular remodeling trends our clients are incorporating into their homes.
1. Indoor/outdoor connections. Reconfiguring existing space to enable easier transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces is something we do quite often. This may entail removing walls, adding windows, or installing sliding glass doors (or all three). The goal is always to invite the flow of natural light into the home and to capitalize on exterior views, allowing the home to feel light, airy and open.
2. Clean color palettes featuring white, neutrals, and pops of blue. Natural beach hues are a popular choice for coastal home selections; from all white kitchens to neutral family rooms accented with a gorgeous wood fireplace. They are easy on the eye, creating a relaxing atmosphere that’s both cozy and welcoming.
3. Informal dining spaces. Homeowners are requesting open kitchen and dining rooms or eat-in spaces that are comfortable for both family meals and entertaining friends and neighbors. Many prefer to have their meals in a less formal setting. This configuration also allows the person who is working in the kitchen the ability to observe their children or interact with others.
4. Specialty outdoor spaces. Decks, patios and screened porches will always be mainstays for coastal homes, but some folks are taking it up a notch and creating specialty outdoor spaces. An outdoor living room is a great place to entertain and enjoy warm summer nights. The addition of a fireplace will extend the use well into the fall and early winter months. Pool houses or cabanas are also popular, some with outdoor kitchens and bathrooms.
5. Mudrooms. Let’s face it, when you live near the beach you deal with a lot of sand. Adding a mudroom can be life changing! It provides a catchall space for flip-flops, beach bags, towels, book bags, sports equipment, and coats. You can customize it with bench seating, individual lockers, drawers or cubby storage.
Do you have a new space in mind for your coastal home? If you are looking for some design inspiration for your home, we invite you to view our project galleries. Let us know if you’d like to discuss your ideas with us. We would love to bring your vision to life.