What’s Hot (and What Actually Works) in Home Upgrades Right Now — from Kris
Here’s what I’m seeing on jobs across the Twin Cities, plus a few smart upgrades that pay you back.
Floors: Warm, Wide, and Work-Hard
- Wide-plank, mid-tone wood is the look—natural texture that hides everyday messes.
- On a tighter budget or for wet zones, LVP (luxury vinyl plank) still wins for toughness and easy care.
- Carpet is back in bedrooms and lower levels—warmer, quieter, and softer underfoot.
- Pro tip: Matte to satin finishes show fewer footprints and scuffs than glossy dark floors.
Kitchens & Baths: Classic Lines + Cozy Tech
- Keep backsplash timeless: simple rectangular tile (brick pattern) with either a clean white or a soft color.
- Heated bathroom floors have moved from “nice-to-have” to “no-brainer”—comfort without a big energy penalty.
- Quiet smart tech: thermostats, leak sensors, and simple shower controls that make life easier without turning your home into a spaceship.
Color Notes (Low-Risk Updates)
- Lean into nature-inspired tones—muted greens, earthy neutrals, and soft mauves. Use bolder colors on an accent wall, vanity, or front door instead of committing the whole house.
Energy-Smart Upgrades That Pay Back
- If you’re due to replace HVAC or a water heater, consider a heat pump and tighten up insulation and air sealing first. That combo cuts bills and boosts comfort.
What I’m Recommending Right Now
- Main level: Engineered white oak (matte, mid-tone) or quality LVP for waterproof zones.
- Bedrooms/basements: Good carpet with a serious pad—warm, quiet, and cozy.
- Kitchen/bath: Large-format porcelain tile + heated floors; classic brick-pattern backsplash.
- Whole-home comfort: Smart thermostat, air sealing/insulation, then plan your next HVAC move.
If you want this tailored to your place—kids, pets, mudroom traffic, the whole picture—I’ll put together a list of materials and a realistic timeline. Then I’ll install it like it’s my own home. ~ Kris