Renovating your home is an exciting journey. It’s an opportunity to refresh outdated spaces, boost functionality and increase your home’s value. Many homeowners focus on the obvious areas like the kitchen and bathrooms, but there are several overlooked features that can make a huge difference.
Upgrades that are not just stylish but also add value and comfort are essential to any home renovation plan. These elements often get forgotten in the frenzy of renovations but can elevate your living space significantly. Let’s explore these eight often-forgotten additions that can elevate any renovation project.
1. Custom Lighting Solutions
One of the first upgrades you should consider is custom lighting. Custom lighting isn’t just a simple lamp or bulb change, but a more comprehensive lighting solution that can highlight different areas, art and create an ambience. Many homeowners focus on basic overhead lights and neglect the importance of layering different lighting types. Adding ambient, task and accent lighting allows you to create the right atmosphere and enhance the room’s practicality. It’s an easy way to elevate any space and make it more inviting.
“Lighting is key everywhere in the house. I like low level and ambient lighting in bedrooms with good reading lights. In the main entrance of the house, I have the biggest oversized powder-coated white light that overhangs. It looks so big but it works. Lighting is everything”, Kelly Hoppen says in an interview with GQ.
Lighting can completely transform a room, influencing everything from its mood to its functionality.
2. Ample Storage Solutions
Another commonly overlooked feature is storage. While it might not seem like the most exciting renovation element, thoughtful storage solutions can make a world of difference in keeping your home organised and clutter-free. Additionally homes with custom built-in storage solutions, such as bookcases and wardrobes, can sell for 2-5% more than similar homes without them.
Joanna Gaines, known for her work on Fixer Upper, advises, “A great way to stay organised is to create intentional spaces for toys, craft supplies, and odds and ends. I think storage is the most undervalued part of a home. Adequate storage can make every room feel more peaceful and beautiful simply by removing clutter and freeing up visual space.”
Built-in cabinets, under-stair storage and multifunctional furniture are all clever ways to maximise space and reduce clutter. A well-organised home not only feels larger but is also far more functional, and it’s something many homeowners overlook when redesigning.
3. Multi-Functional Spaces
As more people work from home, creating rooms that adapt to your needs is essential. When renovating, consider how you can create multi-functional spaces. It’s a smart way to make your home more versatile, especially if you’re working with limited square footage.
Multi-functional spaces allow you to use each room in several ways. For example, a home office that doubles as a guest room or a gym that can also function as a yoga studio. This is becoming increasingly common, 26% of homeowners utilise their kitchens for socialising and entertaining, while 16% use them as home offices. With the right design, your space can serve multiple functions, from a home office to a guest room to a play area, without sacrificing comfort or style.
4. Smart Home Features
Technology is changing the way we live, and integrating smart home features into your renovation project can make a big difference. In 2023, 19.7% of UK households incorporated smart home products and this number is expected to rise to 50.2% by 2027. From smart thermostats and lights to advanced security systems, these features add a level of convenience and security that traditional homes just can’t match. Many of these devices can be controlled remotely, making it easy to monitor your home from anywhere.
Smart home technology is not only a huge plus for convenience, but it can also help reduce energy bills. Smart thermostats, for example, can learn your schedule and adjust the temperature in your home accordingly, saving energy and money. The future of home living is smart, and integrating these systems into your renovation will make your home more appealing to modern buyers.
5. Built-In Home Security
Security should be an integral part of any renovation. Many homeowners only think about it after the renovation is complete, but the best time to integrate home security is during the renovation process.
A spokesperson from Barry Bros, one of London’s longest-standing security experts, explains: “The best time to think about home security is during renovation. From hidden safes to bespoke lock systems, integrating security at this stage means it blends seamlessly into your home rather than standing out as an add-on.”
Incorporating home security features such as hidden safes, smart locks, and integrated alarm systems during renovation ensures they’re both functional and discreet. By prioritising home security, you’re not only enhancing your peace of mind but also increasing your home’s value. A home that’s well-secured is far more attractive to potential buyers.
6. Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems
If you’re renovating a property, don’t overlook heating and cooling systems. Energy-efficient HVAC systems, underfloor heating, and upgraded insulation can drastically improve your home’s comfort level and reduce long-term energy costs. According to the Energy Saving Trust, homes with energy-efficient heating systems can save between £280 annually on energy bills.
Investing in a modern heating or cooling system during renovation ensures your home remains comfortable year-round without the high costs.These upgrades may require a bit more investment upfront, but they’ll pay off in the long run, both in terms of reduced utility bills and added comfort.
7. Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor living spaces are increasingly becoming a priority in home renovations. With more people working from home and spending time indoors, a well-designed outdoor area can serve as a relaxing retreat or entertainment hub. Whether it’s a patio, garden room, or outdoor kitchen, these spaces extend the usable area of your home and improve your quality of life.
The value of outdoor spaces is significant; a well-designed garden or patio can boost your home’s value by £50,000 . Not only do they create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living, but they also make your home more appealing to potential buyers who are looking for multifunctional spaces.
8. Adding Extra Square Footage with a Garden Room
If you are looking to add more space that can be multi-functional unlike a regular patio, opt for a garden room instead. They offer a seamless way to expand your living space without the need for major renovations. A garden room can serve multiple purposes – whether it’s a home office, gym, studio, or just a quiet retreat. Not only do garden rooms provide the extra square footage you need, but they can also add significant value to your home.
According to a representative from PMG Garden Rooms, “A garden room is an easy addition to any home when you have expert help. It’s a flexible space that can be used for a variety of purposes and it can add considerable value to your property”.
Garden rooms are a smart way to increase your home’s footprint while adding value. A well-designed garden room can add 5% to 15% to a property’s value depending on location and size. It also makes your property more appealing to potential buyers looking for a functional, stylish addition.
Conclusion
When renovating your home, it’s easy to focus on the most obvious upgrades – kitchens, bathrooms and fresh paint. However, by considering these overlooked features, you can create a home that is not only beautiful but also functional, secure and energy-efficient.
Thoughtful touches like custom lighting, smart storage and multi-functional spaces will improve the way your home works for you. With the right upgrades, your renovation can pay off for years to come.
For more renovation tips and expert advice, be sure to visit Lockdown House.