The Top 10 Remodeling Trends of 2019

As 2019 comes to a close, it’s time to look back at the top remodeling trends that emerged this year. Specifically, we’ll look at trends that have staying power — the ones that will continue to stay fresh into the new decade.

Let’s jump into the biggest remodeling trends of 2019!

1. High-Tech and Custom Features

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It’s a trend that began many years ago and shows no signs of stopping. Smart home appliances and devices surged in 2019 when more and more homeowners chose to invest in technology and custom features that simplified their routines. Here are just a few examples:

  • Smart light fixtures and window shades that learn your behaviors and preferences
  • Luxury, energy-efficient appliances
  • Custom storage designs, like deep drawers, hidden cabinets, and specialized dividers
  • Toilets with high-tech features

2. Farmhouse

You don’t need a space-age aesthetic in order to take advantage of modern comforts like new technology. In fact, farmhouse style was the most searched home design trend of 2019, according to Google’s “Top Trending Searches” report.

Farmhouse style is all about going back to basics with a cozy, relaxed charm. Think salvaged furniture, shiplap walls, and industrial lighting.

3. Subway Tile

Simple, shiny, and easy to clean, there’s a lot to love about subway tiles. While their popularity has ebbed and flowed over time (including a huge surge in 2019) they never seem to go out of style, which makes them a great, timeless choice for many rooms in the house — especially kitchens.

Although subway tiles are traditionally simple and uniform in color and shape, that doesn’t mean you don’t have options. You can choose from glass, stone, and marble tiles in a variety of colors.


4. Open Shelving

Maybe it’s because people are embracing the farmhouse aesthetic. Or maybe they just want to show off that gorgeous subway tile. Whatever the reason, 2019 saw an interesting shift away from upper cabinetry, with homeowners opting instead for alternative storage options, such as:


5. More Color

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After a long stretch of minimalism and plain white, 2019 brought us hints of a return to more bold and saturated colors, like classic blue and even some warmer colors, like coral. Rich dark green was an especially big color in 2019 as well.

Neutrals always have an important role to play, though. We saw a lot of dark, sophisticated gray and muted pastels too.


6. Double Bathroom Sinks

According to the 2019 US Houzz Bathroom Trends Study, 69% of homeowners updating their bathroom sinks chose a double-sink setup, with most opting for two mirrors as well. One large mirror is another contemporary and clean-looking option.

If you have the space, this is a great, functional choice that adds convenience to your life and a beautiful, symmetrical appeal to your bathroom.

7. More Luxurious Showers and Tubs

Another notable bathroom trend from the Houzz study: Homeowners remodeling their master bathrooms were much more likely to increase the size of the shower than to increase the size of the whole bathroom.

Also, freestanding flat-bottom bathtubs increased in popularity from 41% in 2017 to 50% in 2019.

8. More Metallics like Gold and Copper

Shiny metallics have been popular choices for both kitchens and bathrooms over the past year. These materials can be incorporated through faucets, cabinet hardware, light fixtures, sinks, and even larger appliances.

Matte black accents and accessories have also been on the rise. It’s an interesting contrast to the move toward shiny metals and brighter colors.

9. Unique and Custom Sinks

Photo by Newberry ArchitectureSearch kitchen design ideas

Many homeowners and designers said no to humdrum sinks in 2019. Unique, custom sinks often feature metallics (like copper), hammered finishes, eye-catching details, and added functionality (like integrated pot holders and removable cutting boards).

10. Touches of Art Deco

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As we approach the 2020s, it’s fitting that elements of the 1920s have made a comeback. Along with the move toward more bright colors and custom designs, we’ve seen more bold, eccentric, and ornate patterns and designs. Examples include:

  • Geometric lines and artwork
  • Nature-inspired patterns, including feathers and leaves
  • Curved furniture
  • Antique touches
  • Opulent-looking mirrors

Like farmhouse style, Art Deco had a lot of search traffic over the past year and made it into the top five in Google’s 2019 report.

What 2019 remodeling ideas do you love?

Are you planning a home remodeling project? Do any of these trends resonate with you? Your home should be all about you and the things you love. At Hamish Murray Construction, our focus on flexibility makes it easy for homeowners to get the beautiful and unique results they want.

Want to work with your own architect or designer and bring the plans to us? No problem! Need help developing your design? We’d be happy to introduce you to one of our talented, long-standing partners. We can’t wait to hear about your vision for your remodel!

Contact us today to discuss your ideas and get started!