Making the most of what you already have

Renovating has never been more popular. Despite the soaring costs of living and building materials people continue to embrace the idea of breathing new life into their homes.

According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), there were 6,007 planning applications submitted for new dwellings in Q4 of 2021, an increase of 24.3 per cent compared to the same quarter in 2020. While these figures may indicate a rise in new builds, it’s important to note that a significant portion of these applications are for renovations and extensions.

So what are the most popular renovation jobs people are getting done? It seems that maximising what’s already there is a growing trend. More and more people are looking for ways to enhance and improve their existing living spaces rather than moving house.

Extensions are also in demand. But people are prioritising functionality over size. Smaller extension projects like attic and garage conversions are on the rise. And with many of us working from home, creating a home office or a dedicated workspace has become a top priority.

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Homeowners looking to maximise their living space are turning to garden rooms, which have become a popular trend in recent years. Garden rooms are a great way to create additional space without the need for a large extension or the disruption of building works within the home. They offer a versatile space that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a home office, gym, studio or even a guest bedroom.

Kitchens and bathrooms remain at the forefront of renovation projects. Updating these areas not only improves the look and feel of the home but can also add significant value. And with open-plan living still popular for many homeowners, the kitchen has become the focal point of many homes. Homeowners are opting for contemporary finishes, clean lines, and integrated appliances to achieve a modern look.

Sustainability is another growing trend. There is a shift towards natural and eco-friendly materials such as stone, bamboo and cork. Not only are these materials kinder to the environment but they also add character and warmth to the home.

But it’s not just about aesthetics; energy efficiency is also on the rise. With energy bills increasing people are becoming more aware of the need to reduce their carbon footprint and save on costs. Retrofitting homes with insulation, upgrading windows and doors, and installing more efficient heating systems are popular ways of achieving this. However, there is still a lack of understanding around retrofitting and energy efficiency. A report by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland found that homeowners are hesitant to undertake energy-efficient upgrades due to a lack of knowledge and perceived high costs.

While renovation work is still booming, the pandemic has had an impact. Supply chain disruptions and increased demand have led to a rise in the cost of building materials. This has resulted in some homeowners delaying or scaling back their renovation plans. According to the Irish Home Builders Association, the cost of building a three-bedroom semi-detached house has risen by €15,000 over the past year due to the increased cost of building materials.

So while renovation remains a popular choice for homeowners, there are still challenges. People are opting for smaller projects to maximise existing living spaces rather than building from scratch. Kitchens, bathrooms, and extensions remain popular, while sustainability and energy efficiency are growing trends. Architects and designers have an opportunity to educate homeowners on the benefits of retrofitting and how to go about it.