Let’s face it: the real estate market is unpredictable. One minute you’re convinced your home’s worth a million bucks, the next you’re being told to “neutralize the walls” and “rip out that 2007 espresso kitchen.” Whether you’re thinking of selling, refinancing, or just want your place to look like it belongs in a design magazine, the right upgrades can do more than just make your home look good — they can add real value.
We’re not talking about gold-plated toilets or imported Italian chandeliers. We’re talking smart, stylish upgrades that today’s buyers (and appraisers) care about.
So if you’re planning a remodel in 2025, here are seven home design trends that don’t just look good — they work hard to increase your property’s value.
1. Multi-Purpose Spaces Are the New Must-Have
The pandemic didn’t just change how we work — it changed how we live. Now, every square foot in your home is expected to do double (or triple) duty. Enter: the multi-purpose room.
Whether it’s a guest room that converts into a home gym, or a dining nook that doubles as a Zoom-ready workspace, buyers are looking for flexibility.
“We’re seeing Utah homeowners lean hard into multi-purpose spaces and wellness-inspired design,” says Bryant, founder of Pro-Worx Construction, a full-home remodeling expert. “Think meditation corners, fold-away desks, and garage gyms — anything that lets homeowners get more use out of their space.”
Tips for maximizing value:
- Use pocket doors or barn sliders to zone spaces
- Install built-in shelving for storage + aesthetics
- Add soundproofing where possible (yes, seriously — especially if you have teens or work from home)
Estimated ROI: Up to 10% increase in perceived value depending on layout functionality.
2. Natural Light is a Hot Commodity
Sunshine sells. And we’re not just saying that because Sacramento has 269 sunny days a year. Big windows, open layouts, and light-friendly materials are buyer magnets.
Why it works: Natural light makes spaces feel larger, happier, and more expensive. It’s also been linked to better sleep, improved mood, and lower utility bills.
If your current windows scream “1993 suburbia,” consider:
- Enlarging existing windows
- Adding skylights or solar tubes
- Replacing heavy drapes with light-filtering shades
Design tip: Choose light, reflective paint colors like warm whites, soft taupes, or greige.
Bonus: Energy-efficient windows often come with tax credits or rebates. Check with EnergyStar.gov for incentives in your area.
Estimated ROI: 60-80% on window replacements; higher curb appeal means faster sales.
3. Kitchens with Personality (and Storage!)
The all-white kitchen had a good run, but in 2025, buyers want character. And no, we don’t mean neon backsplash tiles — we’re talking warmth, texture, and functionality.
What’s trending:
- Wood-grain cabinets with matte black fixtures
- Statement pendant lights (we’re loving Schoolhouse and Rejuvenation for inspo)
- Hidden appliance garages and oversized pantries
- Bold islands in contrasting colors
Want a quick kitchen win? Swap out cabinet hardware, install under-cabinet lighting, and paint the island a rich navy or forest green.
Bryant adds, “People want kitchens that feel custom, not cookie-cutter. Add practical luxury — soft-close drawers, smart appliances, or even just killer lighting.”
Estimated ROI: Kitchen remodels can yield a 70-80% return, especially when they enhance flow and functionality.
4. Sustainable = Sellable
Eco-conscious design is no longer niche — it’s mainstream. Today’s buyers are looking for homes that are as good for the planet as they are for their utility bills.
Green updates worth the investment:
- Bamboo or cork flooring (durable, renewable, and stylish)
- Low-VOC paints (bonus: no lingering paint smell)
- Recycled countertops (like PaperStone or Vetrazzo)
- Energy-efficient HVAC systems or solar panels
And don’t forget smart water-saving upgrades:
- Dual-flush toilets
- Low-flow faucets and showerheads
Local tip: Sacramento-area homeowners can check SMUD rebates for money back on energy-efficient upgrades.
Estimated ROI: Up to 10% added value, plus long-term savings.
5. Bathroom Retreats Are Back (and Bigger)
No one wants to brush their teeth next to a toilet crammed into a closet-sized room. Buyers want bathrooms that feel like a spa, not a bus stop.
What’s in for 2025:
- Walk-in, curbless showers with oversized tile
- Wall-mounted vanities with underglow lighting
- Warm neutrals + organic textures (think stone, wood, linen)
- Rain showerheads + built-in benches
“We’ve had clients in Utah turn old tub alcoves into full-on steam rooms — with mood lighting and sound systems,” says Bryant. “Luxury doesn’t have to mean over-the-top — just thoughtful touches.”
Don’t forget: Heated floors = chef’s kiss.
Estimated ROI: A midrange bathroom remodel has an average return of 60-70%.
6. Smart Tech that Isn’t a Gimmick
A fridge that texts you when you’re out of oat milk? Meh. But a home that manages security, lighting, and temperature from your phone? Now that’s worth it.
Top smart upgrades buyers actually want:
- Smart thermostats (like Nest or Ecobee)
- Keyless entry systems
- Motion-activated outdoor lighting
- Integrated smoke/CO detectors
- App-controlled blinds
Don’t overdo it: Stick to upgrades that are easy to use and don’t require a degree in rocket science.
Bonus SEO Tip: Be sure to mention compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit if you’re writing a listing description.
Estimated ROI: Smart home features can add 3-5% to resale value — and appeal to tech-savvy millennial buyers.
7. Curb Appeal Gets an Upgrade
First impressions matter. Especially when buyers are swiping through listings like they’re on Tinder.
What’s trending:
- Painted brick or modern siding
- Statement front doors in bold colors (deep blue, red, or matte black)
- Sleek house numbers + mailbox combos
- Xeriscaping and low-maintenance native plants
“Curb appeal is your home’s handshake. If it’s limp, people won’t walk through the front door,” says Bryant. “Even a simple upgrade like new lighting and fresh paint can do wonders.”
Small curb appeal upgrades with big impact:
- Upgrade outdoor lighting
- Power wash driveway and paths
- Replace old garage door with a modern design
Estimated ROI: Up to 100% on basic exterior improvements, especially paint, doors, and landscaping.
Final Thoughts: Renovate Smart, Not Big
You don’t need a $100,000 remodel to add serious value to your home. Strategic updates — like refreshing your kitchen, adding multi-use space, or upgrading to smart lighting — can give your house the edge it needs in a competitive market.
And if you’re not sure where to start?
“Think about how you actually use your home — and how someone else would want to,” says Bryant. “You’re not just designing for yourself anymore — you’re designing for the future owner.”
For more inspiration (or to steal ideas from the Utah crowd), check out Pro-Worx Construction’s full home remodeling projects.
Just remember: it’s not about following every trend. It’s about choosing upgrades that make sense — for your home, your neighborhood, and your wallet.
Happy remodeling, and may your Zestimate rise ever upward.
Check out more design trends in our blog on mantel pieces here!
