What is trending in home renovation and design? We got some insights from Vic Fiore, co-owner of the award-winning Magnolia Home Remodeling Group to learn all about the latest design trends, finishes, and materials in home renovations. Here is what Vic has to say:
Kitchens: “Clients have become adventurous with their selections...,” notes Vic. “White cabinets are popular with a splash of color like blue cabinets in the island and backsplashes with glass and deeper colors. “
Bathrooms: White materials with a bold pop of color, accent walls and floors with patterned or jeweled toned tiles are the latest trends in bathroom renovations. Vic also mentions, “Gold accents in the plumbing fixtures, different style knobs and trims. Spa-like resort bathroom renovations are also trending, with steam showers and soaking tubs.“
Custom Millwork: Specialty areas such as entry ways with custom nooks for shoes and coats, to updating fireplaces and adding built-in bookcases. “Millwork gives a home character," says Vic. “It adds personality to your home.”
Basements: Vic has seen this trend, “It’s not just a basement. People are adding a half bath, gym or office, as well as incorporating a kitchenette or bar area. It’s a theater, workout area, home office. The basement becomes more of a living space than just one room. It’s a space you don’t mind being in.”
Outside: Decks and patios have been upgraded to outdoor gathering spaces. Using a spectrum of materials, from composite multi-level decks designating as multi-functional entertainment areas, to pavers and stone bringing natural design elements into the outdoor spaces of your home. Custom outdoor bars, kitchens and firepits are also trending. “Trending materials - everything composite - for your deck, siding, trim and rails” says Vic. “They are maintenance free, have a nice color selection and a great materials palette. You get a natural look without the maintenance.”
What can you expect in a home renovation project with Magnolia? Vic shares this. “We hold virtual meetings. Our customers love them. We follow up with a home consultation and show examples of work. If an architect needs to be involved, we will work through the plans. Every project has a materials sheet.
“Our clients work with our preferred vendors and get help with material selection that fits the design in both performance and costs within the allowance set. There are a lot of products to select - tiles, fixtures, etc. Working with a professional helps them bring everything together. Our customers have access to great materials across New Jersey. We assign project coordinators and project managers as well.” Chris Fontana and Vic Fiore, the owners, are directly involved in every project.
“Our goal is to build relationships; that is how we build our business,” says Vic. “Treating people ethically. We communicate in real time. We keep people informed and it helps reduce the stress level. We work on older houses 100+ years old. You find deficiencies, rot, things not up to standards. We try to have a family and team environment. A good work life balance. “
Magnolia offers 100% financing. “We’re dealers for third party lenders; Wells Fargo, Greensky, and Medallion that offer unsecure home renovation loans at affordable rates. Some are 0%. You can use it to get your project started or use it to fund the renovation. You can apply online and get an instant decision. It’s well received.”
Magnolia Home Remodeling Group has an “A” score on Angie’s list with over 189 reviews with a 4.9 out of 5 customer rating. They were also winners of Best of Houzz 2020, and have been for three years in a row. “We send out ratings after the job is done. To gauge service, process, materials…do they have all their project papers…it’s effective. We strive for excellence. “
Visit their 2020 Home Remodeling Catalog online for more design ideas at or a complimentary estimate. https://www.magnoliahomeremodeling.com/ .