English Living
Interiors
THE MOST POPULAR HOME IMPROVEMENTS OF 2023
The projects Brits are taking on this summer, revealed
The nation has experienced many changes over the past few years, but one of the most prominent is the way in which we use our homes. From hosting gatherings as an alternative to going out, to exercising at home instead of visiting the gym, our humble abodes have become a base for working, socialising, and living. In fact, a recent study has revealed that Brits are spending an average of 401 more hours in their homes per year in 2023 than they did in 2020.
Therefore, it is no surprise that demand for home improvements has risen intensely in the past few years. From fancy floral landscaping to contemporary kitchen countertops – Google search demand shows that households up and down the country are looking to invest into their homes more than ever. But, what are the top trending home improvements of 2023, and what transformations are the nation looking to take on this summer? St. Modwen Homes, the national and award-winning housebuilder, reveals all…
Within the top 10, we see a range of home improvements, with a 50/50 split between indoor and outdoor upgrades. From floor to ceiling, the nation is looking to enhance their homes for the better – both practically and aesthetically. Let’s delve into the top five…
Garden Furniture
When the sun comes out and the temperatures rise, us Brits love nothing more than grabbing our SPF and heading outdoors – and what better place to do it than in a well-presented garden? Now, garden furniture and accessories aren’t technically home improvements, but a great setup has actually been proven to boost the value and curb appeal of your home, alongside providing households with an extended alfresco living space. According to property experts, a great shed is the most effective value-boosting addition to your garden, with 82% of professionals in agreement. Prospective buyers love to see how their potential home will look in practice, and using furnishings, structures, and décor to create a spacious, zoned, and well-kept garden can help to invoke that inspiration.
House Beautiful
Vinyl flooring
When homeowners are looking for a durable, low-maintenance flooring choice, vinyl is the ultimate option. Vinyl is mostly found in high-footfall areas of the house like kitchens, dining rooms, and bathrooms due to its water-resistant and easy-clean properties. Vinyl flooring also provides the aesthetic of more expensive, hard-wood flooring, but offers easier care, more design choice, and most importantly, an affordable cost. So, it is no wonder that it is the second most popular improvement on our list.
Composite decking
We’ve all heard horror stories about wooden decking breaking, rotting, or fading – but luckily there is an alternative if you are dreaming of a sun-drenched deck for your own personal lounging area. Composite decking isn’t number three on the list for no reason - this alternative material is a lot more durable than traditional wooden decking, and since the majority of composite decks are made from recycled material, it is also a lot more environmentally friendly! Additionally, as composite is a man-made material, there will be no visible defects or splintering, and there are hundreds of customisable designs available, helping to create a ‘perfect’ alfresco display.
Carpet
With energy bills rising exponentially, alternative methods to help keep our homes warmer during the winter are always welcomed. This may be one of the reasons why our number four spot, carpet, is so popular. Adding carpet to a room can help to insulate it, therefore keeping the heat indoors, and reducing the need for additional heating. This, alongside the fact that carpet is comfortable, customisable, and classic – makes it a perfect flooring option for bedrooms, hallways, and living spaces.
Bathroom tiles
Finally, the fifth home improvement on our list… bathroom tiles. The easiest and most effective way to decorate a bathroom, tiling can completely transform the aesthetic of your bathroom, without buying new furniture or accessories. Whether you choose trendy parqueting style, or go for a more traditional marble finish, there are thousands of tiles to choose from to create your very own unique display. Plus, a recent study found that 76% of property specialists agreed that good quality tiles adds value to your home. Bonus.
St. Modwen Homes can help…
Home improvements can be exciting and fulfilling projects, but the price of completing them to a high standard can strip the enjoyment out of the process. Luckily, national and award-winning housebuilder, St. Modwen Homes, is offering a helping hand. Throughout the summer, St. Modwen Homes is giving up to £25,000 towards upgrading your abode when you purchase a new home with them. From beautiful bathrooms to landscaped gardens – the choice truly is yours to help design your blank canvas.
For more information, please visit the St. Modwen Homes website here.
