Welcome to our guide on 23 amazing before-and-after home remodeling ideas! Renovating your home can completely transform living spaces and create the perfect house for your needs. However, embarking on a remodel also requires proper planning, budgeting, and vision to achieve stunning results. Whether you’re tackling a minor update or full-scale renovation, we’ve compiled 23 inspiring before-and-after remodeling projects to spark ideas and illustrate just what’s possible. From gorgeous kitchen overhauls to basement transformations and everything in between, read on for eye-catching ideas to make your own home’s remodel a success!
Refresh a Dated Kitchen on a Budget
Outdated kitchens can easily appear dark, closed-off, and disconnected from the rest of the home. Minor upgrades and strategic changes can entirely revitalize the space while working within your budget.
Before: This traditional 90s kitchen suffered from poor lighting, ornate detailing, and compartmentalized work zones that obstructed flow. Dated oak cabinets and soffits made the small room feel even more closed-in.
After: A coat of bright white paint instantly modernized the cabinets and opened up the space. Simplifying the soffits and backsplash brought a cleaner look, while new counters and stainless appliances provided an updated feel. The changes cost under $2,000 total, delivering major impact without breaking the bank.
Strategic updates like painting cabinets, switching hardware, and replacing lighting can refresh a kitchen’s look for a reasonable price. Focus on changes that make the space feel more open, airy, and connected to living areas. Simple white paint can work wonders.
Convert an Unused Garage into Livable Space
Underutilized garage space offers unique potential for converting into extra living area. Whether transforming it into a bedroom, home office, studio, or lounge area, a garage conversion project expands your home’s functional space.
Before: This detached garage was essentially wasted space, while the homeowners needed extra room at home. The layout offered flexibility for renovation into a usable living area.
After: Converting the garage into a master suite added over 400 square feet of living space. Vaulted ceilings enhance the open feel, while walls, insulation, flooring, lighting, and windows transformed the concrete shell into a bedroom oasis. A connecting hallway was built leading to the main house.
If feasible with your home, garage conversions can add valuable square footage for your needs. Consider what the space could become – such as a bedroom, office, yoga studio, or lounge. Garages make ideal additions when located close to the main house.
Open Up a Cramped, Galley Kitchen
Galley kitchen layouts position the cabinets and counters in two parallel rows, which can feel restrictive. But strategic demolition can knock down walls to establish an open concept kitchen and dining area.
Before: This narrow galley kitchen design cut it off from the rest of the home. Appliances and prep zones were tight and limiting. Poor lighting design made the space feel dark and dated as well.
After: Removing walls completely transformed this kitchen by unifying it with the dining room. The cohesive open concept enabled better workflow and lights the space. Contemporary finishes like quartz counters, subway tile, and new cabinets finished the remodel.
If your kitchen is boxed in and disconnected from living areas, explore knocking down select walls. Evaluate structural elements first to see if an open concept is feasible. Also focus on lighting, task flow, and finishes to maximize the spacious new layout.
Add Character with Exposed Brick Accents
Exposing original brick covered up by drywall or plaster can infuse unique character into many spaces. The raw, industrial texture pairs well with both modern and traditional design styles. Accent walls with exposed brick also create visual interest.
Before: This dated living room lacked character and dimension with flat painted walls and too little natural light. The cluttered wall unit also claimed valuable space.
After: Removing the wall unit revealed an original brick fireplace, which immediately became a striking focal point. Exposing the natural brick on the adjacent wall amplifies the effect. White trim, updated lighting, and minimalist furniture keep the space feeling fresh.
Consider exposing, restoring, or whitewashing original brick elements to add charm – whether a fireplace, kitchen wall, or accent area. Take care to moisture-proof the brick properly so it transitions well inside. Exposed brick introduces warmth, texture, and history to any room.
Convert a Porch into a Sunroom
Enlarging your home’s footprint by converting an existing covered patio or porch into a sunroom adds valuable living space and a pleasant room to enjoy the outdoors. The renovation also provides natural light.
Before: This semi-enclosed porch had aesthetic issues with a concrete floor, cheap paneling, and awning windows. The awkward, narrow room was underutilized and disconnected.
After: New windows and French doors surround the bright, inviting sunroom on three sides. Drywall, insulation, tongue-and-groove ceiling, and tile floors transform the space into a seamless extension of the home. Comfortable furniture and abundant plants enhance the outdoor living feel.
Assess your home to see if a porch, patio, or deck could become a sunroom or 3-season room. The ideal spot has existing roof framing and partial enclosure. Focus on abundant windows, good insulation, and transitions to contiguous rooms.
Redesign an Attic into One-of-a-Kind Living Space
Whether finishing an attic into a bedroom, office, playroom, or lounge, this unused space offers unique potential. Dormer windows, insulation, flooring, and electrical upgrades are often needed to make attics fully livable.
Before: This bare attic was essentially dead space used only for storage. The angled ceilings, unfinished walls, and lack of lighting suited it only for boxes and holiday decor.
After: Reframed walls, new windows, and a built-in bunk bed nook transform the attic into a kids’ bedroom they can grow into. Plank flooring, drywall, electrical, insulation, and proper stairs also update it for practical use.
Evaluate your attic’s size, framing, roof structure, and access when considering an attic conversion remodel. Focus on headroom, insulation, airflow, window placement, and how the new space will function. Attics make ideal casual hangout spaces, bedrooms, and offices thanks to their secluded, private feel.
Modernize a Dated Master Bathroom
Outdated master bathrooms can detract from your enjoyment of the space. By remodeling the layout, fixtures, lighting, textures, and colors, you can create a calming, spa-like retreat. Focus on practical storage solutions and a minimalist, uncluttered look.
Before: This master bath was trapped in the 80s, with a compartmentalized layout, gaudy tile, poor lighting, and virtually no counter space. Closed in and cramped, the space was inconvenient and out of sync with the rest of the home.
After: A clearer layout, double vanity, frameless shower, built-in storage, and Zen-inspired elements completely updated the master bath. Neutral tones, ample lighting, and simple textures craft a soothing oasis. The new design minimized clutter while maximizing function and aesthetics.
Look for ways to open up the space, streamline storage, update fixtures/finishes, and complement the master bedroom when remodeling a master bath. Aim for a spa-like, retreat-ready space.
Revitalize a Kitchen on a Budget
Even modest kitchen renovation budgets can deliver dramatic transformations with smart planning. Focus on high-impact changes – like paint, lighting, backsplash, and updating cabinet hardware. New countertops, sink fixtures, and appliances can come later.
Before: This outdated kitchen suffered from heavy ornate detailing, poor lighting, and disconnected work zones that hindered prep. Oak cabinets and soffits also made the modest room feel dark and closed-in.
After: Bright white paint instantly refreshed the cabinets, while new hardware and backsplash modernized the look. Updated pendant lighting marked a huge change. The same footprint feels lighter, cleaner, and more inviting with a $3,000 budget.
Evaluate which elements bring the most dated feel or hamper kitchen function. Prioritize changes like paint, backsplash tile, lighting, and hardware for the biggest visual impact within your budget. Minor updates can make a major difference.
Transform a Cellar into Stylish Wine Storage
For wine connoisseurs, transforming an unused cellar or vault into organized wine storage can be a dream project. Climate control, racking systems, lighting, flooring, and finishes tailored to storing wine create a stunning showcase.
Before: This dingy cellar had expansive potential thanks to its size and earth-sheltered underground location. But the dank space begged for a complete makeover to become usable for wine.
After: Humidity control, new racking, LED lighting, vibration pads, and epoxy flooring optimize the cellar for wine storage and enjoyment. Dark colors and minimalist decor amplify the modern elegance, making a once-gloomy space highly functional and beautiful.
Consider an old basement, root cellar, or vault on your property for a cellar conversion – their underground design suits wine’s needs. Focus on racking, climate and humidity control, lighting, flooring, and aesthetics in your remodel plan.
Expand Square Footage with a Bump-Out Addition
Adding new livable space by “bumping out” parts of your home’s footprint – like building on top of a garage or extending a room – can add valuable square footage. The new extension ties into the existing structure.
Before: This home’s kitchen was cut off from the dining and living areas. The disjointed work triangle hampered prep efficiency. Cabinet space was also maxed out.
After: Bumping out over the garage expanded the kitchen dramatically with a large island and family eat-in area. The open dining room connection improved flow and opened sightlines. More counter space and custom cabinetry optimized the layout.
Assess windows, exterior walls, and available square footage for bump-out potential. Extending over a garage or building up above it are common approaches. Focus on blending with the existing architecture.
DIY a Dramatic Kitchen Backsplash
Installing an eye-catching backsplash is one of the easiest DIY upgrades for drastic impact, whether you prefer modern, rustic, retro, or minimalist styles. Be adventurous with materials – from penny tiles to marble, glass, or even corrugated metal.
Before: This bland retro kitchen suffered from boring builder-grade cabinets and generic laminate counters. The bare drywall lacked any personality or focal point.
After: A geometric herringbone marble slab backsplash instantly energized the space with color, shine, and texture. White cabinet paint boosted the light and bright new vibe. The $120 DIY splash made a huge impact.
Measure precisely and prepare the wall surface so backsplash tiles adhere properly. Use spacers between tiles for consistent grout lines. Take your time laying tile and use plans/guides for complex patterns. Sealing grout completes the stunning transformation.
Modernize Grandmillennial Style with Crisp, Contrasting Colors
The recently trending “grandmillennial” look embraces elements of classic English, French, and cottage styles. Modernizing the traditionally soft palette with contrasting hues keeps the look fresh rather than stuffy. White paint, black accents, and natural wood prevent an overly precious vibe.
Before: The outdated charm of this sunroom felt disconnected from the rest of the home. Mismatched furniture and paint colors amplified the problem. Poor lighting left spaces gloomy.
After: Clean white built-ins, walls, and finishes create contrast with the existing wood ceiling and natural stone fireplace. Pops of black in the furnishings and lighting enhance the balance. Crisp yet timeless, this space celebrates its architectural roots in a revived modern style.
When remodeling grandmillennial spaces, emphasize contrast through color, texture, and lighting. Crisp whites, warm wood tones, and matte black accents feel current. Tailor furniture to suit architectural elements for cohesion.
Create a Home Office Retreat in the Attic
Attic spaces are ideal for private, focused home office designs thanks to their separation from busier household areas. When remodeling attics for office use, emphasize natural light, efficient workspace, and inspiration from views.
Before: This attic was essentially untouched empty space with raw roof framing and plywood floors. Poor insulation and temperature control also made it inhospitable.
After: Framing knee walls under the slope opened up floor space and allows standing room. New windows flood the office with natural light. Insulation and HVAC transforms the once-drafty space. Clean finishes and minimalist decor promote concentration.
When converting attics to offices, address structural elements like rafters and knee walls for usable space. Emphasize lighting, insulation, flooring and storage needs based on your work style. Offices benefit from muted colors and minimalist decor for focus.
Design an Organized Mudroom
High-traffic mudroom spaces near entries can easily become disorganized catch-alls for household clutter. Remodeling them into well-planned storage zones with custom built-ins transforms messy mudrooms into orderly spaces.
Before: This home’s main entry opened right into a small kitchen, with virtually no space to store shoes, coats, and other items. The result was constant clutter.
After: Bumping out the wall and adding a custom storage mudroom solved the issue. Cubbies, hooks, benches, and cabinets organize seasonal items and everyday essentials out of sight. Mudrooms designed for your needs reduce daily clutter.
Evaluate your home’s entry points to identify the best mudroom opportunities. Look for unused adjacent walls or corners to carve out organized storage zones. Custom mudroom builders can create tailored solutions.
Celebrate Architectural Character in a Kitchen Remodel
Kitchen remodels in older homes benefit from honoring distinctive existing architectural details through creative remixing. Blend original charm with modern updates for a standout new-meets-old style.
Before: This outdated 1930s kitchen had uninspired laminate cabinets, poor task lighting, and crumbling linoleum floors. Charming built-ins and arched doorways were also hidden by clutter.
After: White cabinet paint illuminated the detail of the original cabinets while quartz counters and a custom range hood added modern flair. New tile flooring complemented the vintage character. Stylish open shelves showcased serveware instead of hiding charm. Keeping architectural details during the remodel respected the home’s roots while introducing fresh new elements.
When remodeling a kitchen rich in original details, look for ways to retain and refresh charming built-ins, arches, flooring, and other elements. New lighting, surfaces, and finishes can blend seamlessly.
Convert a Porch to a Three-Season Porch
Converting an existing screened porch or patio into an enclosed three-season porch adds valuable living space to enjoy in spring, summer, and fall. The versatile room functions as a dining room, lounge, plant conservatory, and more.
Before: This outdated back porch off the kitchen had aesthetic issues like crumbling concrete steps and a sinking roof. The awkward space wasn’t used much due to poor insulation.
After: New roof framing, abundant windows, French doors, and insulation transformed the porch into a beautiful sun-filled room usable most of the year. Tongue and groove ceiling, updated decking, and automatic screens finished the conversion nicely.
Assess your porch’s size, roof structure, and layout when considering a three-season porch conversion remodel. Focus on window placement, insulation, roof improvements, and integrating indoor/outdoor vibes through textures and views.
Open up a Boxy Kitchen by Knocking Down Walls
Closed-off small kitchens boxed in by walls can expand dramatically by opening sightlines and airflow to adjacent rooms. Evaluate load-bearing structures first, then remove partition walls for a more spacious, functional layout.
Before: The walled-off galley kitchen in this home felt extremely cramped and dark, with virtually no room for prep or storage. Appliances were also minimal and outdated.
After: Knocking down the walls separating the kitchen and dining room established an open, unbroken shared space. The airy design provides room for a sizable center island and breakfast bar. New finishes like the backsplash modernized the aesthetic as well.
If walls are obstructing your kitchen, explore selectively demolishing them to establish open sightlines. Just be sure to assess if they are load-bearing first. Also focus on a logical new workflow and modern finishes to suit the open layout.
Bring the Outdoors In With Indoor Vertical Gardens
Incorporating vertical greenery indoors makes any space feel fresher, more uplifting, and connected to nature. DIY vertical gardens are simple: Use wall-mounted containers or built-in planters to grow low-light plants. Include grow lights if natural light is insufficient in the area.
Before: This dim basement lounge had uninviting bare walls and minimal light. The dreary space needed a revitalizing makeover.
After: Installing custom floor-to-ceiling planters transformed the blank wall into a living green sculpture. For under $30, the indoor vertical garden introduced life, vibrancy,fresh oxygen, and inviting nature views. Small grow lights nurture the low-light plants.
When designing indoor vertical gardens, consider easy-care plants like pothos, philodendrons, ferns, pilea, ivy, succulents, and air plants. Include grow lights if natural light is low. Watering systems can also ease maintenance.
Install Timeless Subway Tile in the Kitchen
Subway tile backsplashes are a classic, versatile, and affordable kitchen remodeling upgrade. The rectangular tiles lined up in an offset brick pattern complement any style, from farmhouse to modern. Subway tiles introduce pops of color, texture, and shine.
Before: This rental kitchen was desperately bland and outdated with minimal prep space, builder-grade cabinets, and zero personality. The bare white walls begged for an easy makeover on a budget.
After: Simply adding a bold emerald green subway tile backsplash completely transformed the aesthetic. Crisp white grout