Award-Winning Home Remodeling Ideas You’ll Want to Steal

When it comes to remodeling your home, you don’t want to settle. You want something that complements your style but is still fresh and in step with the latest (and hopefully also timeless) home renovation ideas. So to find truly awe-inspiring home remodeling ideas, it’s always great to check out the work of designers and builders — the ones that have won awards and risen to the top. La crème de la crème.

This list is a great place to start, featuring home remodeling ideas for kitchens, bathrooms, and pretty much the entire house, while also giving you tips and tricks to keep in mind when making your own remodeling decisions, so you’ll invest your money wisely.

What Should I Remodel First?

It’s a safe bet to collect home renovation ideas for the kitchen, the bathroom(s), or the floors.

Refinishing or replacing your hardwood floors can give you a lot of bang for your buck — it immediately transforms the look and feel of your place. Whether you want to make your home nicer for yourself or to entice potential buyers in the future, it’s a low-risk project that can be completed fairly quickly, compared to other remodeling projects.

That said, if you’re ready to tackle a bigger challenge, the kitchen or bathrooms take the top spots on the priority list. They make the biggest impact in your daily life and are also the best investments to future-proof your house for renting or selling in the future.

What Remodel Adds the Most Value?

Your best bet for getting the most return on your investment is to remodel the kitchen. Even minor kitchen remodels that are mostly cosmetic fixes (like refacing the cabinets or installing new countertops) can recoup up to 96 percent of their cost, while full kitchen remodels typically get you back about 38 percent of your investment.

If your kitchen is already in good shape (lucky you!), it may be worth looking into updating your bathroom(s) instead. There are plenty of inexpensive bathroom remodeling ideas that will add value to your home.

New floors are also a good investment because they’re a relatively easy upgrade. In fact, you can recover between 118 percent and 147 percent of your investment on hardwood floors (depending on whether you’re refinishing or replacing them)!

Ready to see some remodels that will knock your socks off? Here are a few award-winning examples to give you some reno inspo.

Increase Your Home’s Resale Value With a Kitchen Upgrade

Upgrading or improving your kitchen is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your home. And depending on how much work is needed, it doesn’t even have to be a huge project to make an impact! Here are some home remodel ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

Recognition: 2021 Remy Award Gold & All-Star, Historical Renovation/Restoration $250,000 and Over
(Source: Remodelingkc.com )

1. Use House Remodel Ideas That Match Your Home’s Vibe.

When it comes to great home remodeling ideas, look no further than this project by Architectural Craftsmen & Team Member Orion Design Inc., which highlights the importance of making sure you preserve the character of the house — to keep the look and feel harmonious as a whole.

You wouldn’t necessarily want a historic house with a contemporary kitchen, as it would lose most of its charm and look out of place (and it could also be jarring for future buyers).

This remodel updated an old kitchen, while making sure to keep the charm and character of the space. It accomplished this by keeping naturally dark wood tones in some of the storage cabinets while contrasting them with some white cabinetry on the opposite side of the space to make the kitchen look bigger and brighter.

The designers also kept original ceiling details, like the beams, that add warmth and personality. Additionally, they used a mix of different types of lights to add dimension and bring modern touches into the room.

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Avoid style elements that will clash with the other rooms in your home.
• Contrast dark and light elements to make your kitchen feel bigger and brighter.
• Retain distinctive features of your home when possible to help tie everything together.

Recognition: 2021 Remy Award Gold, Kitchen $60,001 to $100,000
(Source: Schloegel Design Remodel)

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Blend colorful elements with natural fixtures made of wood and/or metal.
• Countertops and backsplashes don’t have to match perfectly to complement each other.
• Use light wall colors or materials to amplify the room's natural light.

Recognition: 2022 National/Regional CotY Award, Residential Kitchen under $30,000
(Source: Time 2 Remodel)

3. Create Extra Storage and Space Without Undergoing a Major Home Interior Renovation.

We said before that even a small remodel can be great for your home value, and this project by Time 2 Remodel is a great example of a home renovation idea that had big results despite its limited space. Here, the designers replaced an ill-fitting peninsula with an island for better flow and functionality and installed extra cabinets for added storage, which, in turn, freed up much-needed counter space. 

Finally, they matched the original details, such as the oak floor and the textured drywall, to keep the personality of the space and make all the modern changes feel like they belong and were always there. This particular remodel was in a small space and came with a smaller price tag, but the final result is undeniably impactful.

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Add ceiling-height cabinets for extra storage and counter space.
• Replace space-stealing peninsulas with more functional islands.
• Make changes that modernize the space without looking disjointed from the rest of your home.

Retreat to a Cozy Oasis at the End of the Day With a Bedroom Refresh

Recognition: 417 Magazine Best Bedroom 2023 Winner
(Source: 417mag.com)

1. Make the Bedroom Look and Feel Bigger by Adding Light.

To refresh a bedroom the homeowners said was “dated” and “dark,” GMI Design Group’s Fernanda Edwards started by bringing in some light — literally. Enlarging the windows from four-feet to five-and-a-half-feet tall did the trick, brightening and expanding the feel of the room. 

Beyond that significant structural change, however, the rest of the home renovation ideas involved subtle touches to create a calming but contemporary vibe: beige and light gray for the walls and carpet and cool whites for the linens, chair, and couch. Pops of color in the artwork and throw pillows add warmth and charm to the overall look, as well.

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Enlarge the windows or remove any treatments that block the natural light.
• Use cooler tones for a calming vibe.
• Include a few pops of colors to give a neutral-toned room some vibrancy.

Recognition: Interior Design Society – Best Bedrooms $30,000 and Under (Winner)
(Source: Interior Design Society)

The experts at The Aspiring Home Interiors know how to mix minimalist style and comfort effortlessly. Light, airy blues and whites with natural wood accents give this bedroom a welcoming, destination vacation feel. The hardwood floors and furniture add warmth to an otherwise cool room, creating a perfect balance.

The attached bathroom takes notes, incorporating the blue tones found throughout the bedroom. The widened entryway into the bathroom makes the room feel more open, and the flooring shifts effortlessly from hardwood to marble without feeling disjointed. The white bathroom floors mirroring the white walls is a nice cohesive touch.

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Paint your bedroom walls a light or white hue for a clean, breezy feel.
• Add warmth to a minimalist room with wood details and flooring.
• Widen the bathroom entryway to make the room feel larger.

Recognition: Interior Design Society – Best Bedrooms $30,000 and Under (First Runner Up)
(Source: Interior Design Society)

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• To make a bedroom feel extra cozy, opt for softer materials and upholstered furniture.
• Dark doesn’t mean drab — all you need to do is add a few lighter-colored pillows or accents to give it balance.
• Throw in a few extra throw pillows and blankets to make a bedroom less stark and more soft.

Remodel Your Bathroom To Add More Functionality and Appeal

Recognition: 2022 National/Regional CotY Award, Residential Bath over $100,000
(Source: Neil Kelly Inc)

1. A Home Interior Renovation Can Blend Historic Charm With Modern Convenience.

This project by Neil Kelly Design/Build honors the history of this old house (built in 1890!) while adding contemporary touches. The designers accomplished the not-so-easy feat of making a space look like it belongs in a historic house — but in a modern time.
 
One of the reasons the owners wanted to remodel this space was to add functionality. For instance, they asked for the traditional clawfoot tub to be replaced with a more practical walk-in shower, and they also needed extra storage.
 
The designers married industrial and vintage styles with enough details to let you know it was carefully planned and executed — down to the very last tile.

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Replace older pedestal sinks with a single vanity or cabinets for added storage.
• To embrace an older home’s charm, choose a tile pattern with a vintage design.
• Replace an outdated tub with a walk-in shower.

Recognition: 2022 National/Regional CotY Award Winner, Residential Bath $25,000 to $50,000
(Source: NARI)

Not every home renovation idea has to come with a large price tag. In fact, this very different remodel project by Remodel Boutique shows how the right details can turn a bathroom into your very own sanctuary in a cost-efficient way, so you can have your small luxuries without losing money when it comes to resale value.

This primary bathroom, in a converted attic, helps take advantage of every last inch of square footage in the home. And while the peculiarities of the space could have been a nightmare, the designers took advantage of the unique architectural shapes of the room and turned it into a spectacular home spa.

Not only were they able to add a double vanity, a soaking tub, and an elegant, comfortable shower, but they also separated and enclosed the toilet area and added a relaxing reading corner, to give full spa-retreat vibes to this space. 

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Use odd roof lines or awkward spaces to your advantage.
• If you’re tight on space, add towel bars, shelving, and recessed shower shelves instead of a towel closet or cabinets.
• If you do have extra square footage, enclose your toilet area for added privacy.

Recognition: 2022 National/Regional CotY Award Winner, Residential Bath Under $25,000
(Source: Alair Homes Dallas/Fort Worth via Facebook)

3. Use Fun House Remodel Ideas To Showcase Your Personality.

This next project by Alair Homes shows how smart use of space and pretty simple (and often underrated) details like wallpaper can make all the difference.

A bland, all-cream bathroom was expanded to add a bathtub, and warm wood cabinetry was installed to bring some coziness into the space. The designers replaced unflattering fluorescent lights with cute sconces, and, finally, added the focal point: fun, colorful wallpaper. If floor-to-ceiling color isn’t your thing, you can still infuse your bathroom with life by adding a small plant, artwork, or even a colorful tub.

A tired space was brought back to life without spending a ton, while adding functionality for its current inhabitants and value for a potential future sale.

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Wood cabinets can keep a white bathroom from looking cold and drab.
• Include a stylish mirror with a brass or gold frame.
• Add a fun detail to the small space, like a funky wallpaper, colorful artwork, or a vibrant area rug.

Help Warm Up the Look of Your Home With an Updated Fireplace

Recognition: 417 Magazine Best Fireplace 2022 Award
(Source: 417mag.com)

Sometimes changing seemingly small details can make all the difference — and implementing fireplace remodeling ideas is a prime example. Looking to freshen up an outdated family room, designer Madison Rees at Rock Solid Renovations exchanged the rustic look for a clean, contemporary aesthetic. Smooth black granite took the place of old-fashioned stone, incorporating gold and creamy veining to add movement and sparkle — and to catch the light of the fire. 


As the new focal point of the room, the fireplace not only brings warmth and a cozy glow for cold nights but adds a welcome boost to the value of the home. The two black end tables flanking the fireplace are a nice way to contrast the white wall without drawing attention away from the fireplace. Having artwork or another small piece of decor with a hint of color adds some depth to the room without straying too far from the primarily black-and-white color palette. 

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Trade in old fashioned stone for a sleeker option, like granite, tile, or concrete.
• Don’t add too much color if you’re going for a primarily black-and-white room — but incorporate a small touch or two.

Recognition: French Magazine Ideat Best Fireplace 2021

2. Swap Bricks and Mantles for Something More Modern.

Fireplaces often evoke nostalgic images of cozy, rustic cabins or grand, traditional living rooms filled with stone hearths and wooden beams. However, the Belgian company Metalfire has reimagined this classic element with a fresh, modern perspective. Instead of adhering to conventional materials and designs, this room has a minimalist approach, utilizing simple, straight lines that exude contemporary elegance. The clean lines and sleek surfaces create a striking contrast to the traditional image of a fireplace, making it not just a functional piece but a bold statement in any space.
In addition to its modern aesthetic, the fireplace incorporates technical features that enhance its appeal. Advanced combustion technology ensures efficient and environmentally friendly performance, while customizable options allow for seamless integration into various architectural styles. 

Recognition: Wood Burning Winner of 2022 Red Dot Design Award

3. Find a Fireplace That’s Simplistic Yet Stylish.

The Scan 87 fireplace, designed by Niels Kjeldsen Design, uses a throwback furnace silhouette with a thoughtful eye toward modern design sensibilities to create a timeless piece. It’s both functional and fashionable, providing ample heat while working as a natural focal point in the room. Its glass window lets everyone see the roaring log flame, no matter where in the room they sit.

You’ll notice that the darker fireplace color is contrasted by the lighter colored walls and furniture. This not only allows attention to be drawn to the fireplace, but it also preserves the room’s more luxurious look. To tie in the fireplace’s darker hue, very fine details, like the iron console, are incorporated. 

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Choose a fireplace with a unique design to add a fun focal point to the room
• The fireplace color can contrast with the wall color without making the space appear too chaotic.
• If your fireplace doesn’t blend seamlessly with the rest of your decor, find a way to add a few subtle pieces in the same hue.

Reclaim Square Footage With a Basement Remodel

Recognition: 2021 Remy Awards Gold, Basement Under $100,000
(Source: Martanne Construction)

When you live in a home for decades, basements frequently become forgotten storage spaces for unused things. Basement remodeling ideas on a budget abound, but this design by Martanne Construction is unique in proving how luminous a basement can truly be.

With this renovation alone, the homeowner added 1,500 square feet of living space. Not bad for a project that didn’t involve any additions, right? The entertainment hub now has a kitchen, living room, and bathroom that can all be used to host guests or for family gatherings. And the choice of light colors and materials maximizes light, so you don’t feel trapped in the basement — even with just two small windows. 

If you’re wanting a guest space in your basement but looking for ways to cut costs, you may want to forgo the full kitchen idea. Like its upstairs counterpart, a full kitchen can run around $45,000. It’s a nice feature for guests and necessary if you want to turn the basement into a rental space, but it’s an easy way to trim expenses if necessary.

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Use light colors and materials to keep the basement from having a claustrophobic feel.
• Put a kitchen and bathroom in the basement so guests don’t have to go to the main level to get what they need.
• If possible, put a few windows in the basement, even if you have to fake it.

Recognition: 2022 National/Regional CotY Award Winner, Basement Under $100,000
(Source: Dave Osmond Builders)

2. Give Your Media Room a Touch of Film Noir.

When it comes to media room home remodel ideas, this project by Dave Osmond Builders is a great example. It has all the charm of an old movie set — but also includes the function of a dry bar, a wine cellar, and a small dining area you can use for food or games. The space almost feels like a hotel inside your own home, and that’s hard to beat for inexpensive, fun staycations.

This basement incorporates industrial elements like exposed brick and a dark ceiling, and the old Hollywood hotel atmosphere is reinforced by the black-and-white artwork, bold colors, and vintage-style popcorn machine.

Recognition: 2022 National/Regional CotY Award Winner, Basement $100,000 to $250,000
(Source: Innovative Construction)

3. Add Comfort Without Being Kitschy.

For a compromise between light and personality, this remodel by Innovative Construction offers coziness without feeling like a themed room. The blue cabinets are a fun way to add some color to the room and balance nicely with the more beige and brown tones in the furniture and cabinetry. Recessed lighting in the ceiling adds light to the window-less area without having the harshness of fluorescent lighting.

The basement amenities include a kitchen and bathroom, making it great for entertaining and spending family time, but it doubles as a guest space with plenty of privacy. In fact, the owners prioritized making a comfortable living area for their parents during extended visits — so they’ll want to visit more often.

If you look closely, you’ll notice that there’s a portable A/C unit in the wall by the dining table. This is a great way to prevent adding an extra HVAC unit to your home or dealing with added construction costs. Your guests can keep the temp at the preferred level without draining the main systems.

Steal These Home Remodeling Ideas:

• Use recessed lighting on a dimmer switch instead of more harsh overhead light.
• Include some color in the space with accents and cabinetry.
• Put a portable A/C unit in the space to cut down on renovation or utility costs.

Main Takeaways From These Home Remodeling Ideas

Kitchen Remodeling

• Keep original details to maintain the original charm and make a space more cohesive.
• Consider the construction style when designing your space.
• Realize you can make a big impact, even with a small budget.
• Make functionality a top priority.
• Find ways to make the most of storage and counter space.

Bedroom Remodeling

• Keep things comfy and cozy. Don’t overcrowd the space.
• Opt for big windows with lots of natural light.
• Bright bedrooms give you a wide-open feeling, whereas darker tones keep things sleepy (ideal for a bedroom).
• Add warmth to the space with pillows, blankets, and upholstery.

Bathroom Remodeling

• Challenging shapes and spaces are opportunities for unique details that add charm and appeal to your home.
• Furniture in unexpected spaces can turn a simple bathroom into a multifunctional space.
• Small but fun details like wallpaper can make all the difference in an otherwise simple bathroom.
• Blend vintage designs with modern amenities when updating a bathroom in a historic home.

Fireplace Remodeling

• The fireplace is a natural focal point of the room, a prime opportunity to set the vibe.
• Keep the fireplace in the center of the room to spread warmth evenly and so the flame is easily visible.
• Forgo the brick fireplace with chain coverings and opt instead for clean, modern lines with glass coverings.
• Having mirrors in the same room as the fireplace allows the flames to be seen from every angle.

Basement Remodeling

• A basement doesn’t have to feel like a basement.
• Use white walls and light accents to keep the space from feeling gloomy.
• Keep the space’s open feel, even if you’re adding separate areas, to prevent the room from being too cut up.
• Basements can be moody without being dark.
• A good basement will be multi-functional.

What Should You Not Do When Remodeling a House?

The sky’s the limit, when it comes to updating your home. Just make sure you don’t fall into these traps:

• Start without a solid plan and budget: Things can escalate and get out of hand very easily, so be sure to plan for unexpected issues and expenses.
• Focus on being trendy when it comes to your design: Trends come and go quickly, and you don’t want to regret a big and expensive choice in just a few short months.
• Overspend on specialty rooms and amenities if you plan on selling soon: Consider that a buyer’s taste or lifestyle may be different from yours, so only spend on expensive add-ons like pools and home theaters, if you plan on enjoying these new luxuries for a while.
• Over-upgrade or add unnecessary amenities: As with specialty rooms, these mostly pay off if you’re going to use them for a long time. But they don’t add to resale value, so try not to go overboard, and always factor in how long you plan to live in your current house.

What Are Some Low-Effort and Low-Cost Home Remodeling Ideas That Pay Off?

Small fixes that don’t cost too much can make all the difference when it comes to home renovation ideas. Here are a few:

• Redo the siding: This project can recoup around 95 percent of your investment.
• Add a small deck: It’ll not only give you extra outdoor space, but you’ll usually get back around 72 percent of the cost when it’s time to resell.
• Replace your garage door: It’s quick, easy, and inexpensive — and it enhances curb appeal, which will help in a potential sale.

How To Move From House Renovation Ideas to Remodeling Results

Whether you’re doing a quick bathroom redo or renovating your entire home, our Ultimate Home Remodeling Checklist gives you a clear roadmap to planning, prepping, and getting it done. 

For more remodeling tips, such as how to hire a remodeling contractor, visit the PODS Blog.

Ivonne Spinoza is a freelance writer and a frequent contributor to the PODS Blog. Her work has appeared in Matador Network, PBS’ Independent Lens, and The Chicago Tribune, among others. When she’s not snuggling her cats, she’s either Kondo-ing someone’s life or fighting jet lag at some airport.

(Source for image featured at top: Neil Kelly Inc)