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When it comes to transforming your space, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a well-executed Grand Rapids Home Renovation. Whether you’re looking to revamp a kitchen, add a deck, or do a full home remodel, Avalon Remodels is primed to bring your vision to life. In this article, we’ll dive deep into all aspects of home renovation in Grand Rapids, explore trends, outline steps, and show how Avalon’s services shine in each domain.

Why Choose Avalon Remodels for Your Grand Rapids Home Renovation?

Before jumping into trends, costs, or planning, let’s talk about who Avalon Remodels is and why they make for a compelling choice in Grand Rapids.

Avalon Remodels (also operating under Avalon Roofing & Exteriors / Avalon Building Concepts) has a robust portfolio in the region.  Their services encompass a wide variety of remodeling work: kitchen and bathroom renovations, basement finishing, custom cabinetry, flooring, siding, window and door replacement, and more.  Additionally, Avalon offers exterior remodeling — roofing, guttering, siding, storm restoration — which positions them as a one-stop solution for both interior and exterior upgrades. 

Their 30+ years of experience in Western Michigan’s remodeling and exterior construction sector lends confidence that they understand local codes, weather conditions, and homeowner expectations. With such a depth of services, working with Avalon can reduce coordination headaches when multiple trades are involved, since many tasks can be handled in-house or through a well-coordinated network.

So if you’re considering a Grand Rapids home renovation, Avalon Remodels is well worth a look.

Trends Shaping Home Renovation in Grand Rapids (2025 & Beyond)

To ensure your remodel is both contemporary and enduring, consider these rising trends in home renovation — many of which Avalon Remodels is well-equipped to deliver.

1. Energy Efficiency & Green Upgrades

• High-performance windows & doors: Replacing old single-pane windows with double- or triple-pane, low-E models can significantly reduce heating/cooling bills. Avalon explicitly lists window replacement among their offerings. 

• Insulated siding & exterior envelope improvements: Upgrading siding, adding better insulation, and sealing air leaks are increasingly popular, especially for homes with aging exteriors.

• Solar readiness & smart home integration: Some homeowners are planning wiring and roof reinforcement for future solar panels.

2. Open & Flexible Living Spaces

Modern homes favor open plans, multifunctional rooms, and flexible layouts. Walls are being removed, partitions replaced with sliding or folding elements, and storage integrated in creative ways.

3. Spa-inspired Bathrooms & Wellness Zones

Luxury bathroom features—walk-in showers, steam options, integrated seating, high-end tile—are rising in demand. Spa-like lighting, heated floors, and wellness features are being folded into main bathrooms and even ensuite powder rooms.

4. Statement Kitchens & Culinary Zones

Kitchens remain a major focal point for renovation ROI. Key trends:

• Bold, two-tone cabinetry (e.g. darker lower cabinets, lighter uppers).

• Open shelving mixes with closed cabinetry.

• Integrated appliances and hidden storage for a cleaner aesthetic.

• Large islands (with multi-use zones: cooking, seating, prep).

• Bold backsplashes, sculptural hardware, and material contrast.

5. Outdoor Living as an Extension of Inside

In Michigan, maximizing seasons is key. Decks, patios, pergolas, fire-pit areas, and screened-in porches are becoming integral parts of renovation plans. Avalon offers custom decks and outdoor additions. 

6. Basement & Lower-level Upgrades

Finishing basements to serve as additional living space, home offices, entertainment zones, or guest suites is a strong trend—especially as remote work continues. Avalon points to basement finishing among its services. 

7. Retro to Modern: Blending Character with Clean Lines

Homeowners with historic or older homes often want to preserve character (exposed beams, original moldings) while infusing modern materials, minimalist finishes, and smart tech. This blending of old and new is a fine balance.

The Grand Rapids Home Renovation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

A successful remodel hinges on organized, deliberate process. Here’s a general roadmap you can follow (and expect Avalon or any good contractor to follow closely):

1. Vision & Ideation

• Gather ideas: magazines, Pinterest boards, local show homes.

• Define your priorities: what must you change, what’s optional?

• Think about functionality, aesthetics, and future resale value.

2. Budget Establishment

Decide what you’re willing to spend overall, then allocate across rooms (kitchen often demands more). Factor in a contingency (10–20%) for surprises. Be realistic about what quality materials and labor cost in your market (Grand Rapids area).

3. Hire the Right Professional

• Interview multiple contractors.

• Request portfolios, references, and proof of licenses/insurance.

• Ask for detailed proposals (line-item cost breakdowns).

• Ensure contract clarity: timelines, payment schedules, scope, change orders.

Avalon Remodels’ advantage is its integrated services (interior + exterior) and local experience.

4. Design & Permitting

• Finalize layouts, materials, finishes, lighting, plumbing, etc.

• Submit drawings to the city or county for required permits.

• Review for code compliance (e.g. electrical, plumbing, structural).

5. Pre-construction Preparations

• Order long-lead-time items (cabinets, windows, specialty fixtures).

• Prepare the work area (protect flooring, set up dust barriers).

• Confirm schedule, delivery windows, staffing.

6. Demolition & Framing

• Carefully demolish only what needs removal.

• Inspect structure (beams, joists, wiring, plumbing) for hidden issues.

• Reframe walls, doorways, and ensure structural integrity.

7. System Rough-ins (Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC)

• Install wiring, piping, and ducting before closing walls.

• Coordinate with inspectors to get approvals.

• Plan for smart-home wiring, extra outlets, and future expansion.

8. Insulation & Drywall

• Insulate walls, ceilings, and floors for thermal and acoustic performance.

• Hang drywall, tape, mud, and sand.

• Prepare surface for painting or finishes.

9. Finish Work & Installations

• Install cabinetry, countertops, fixtures, tile, flooring.

• Paint walls, ceilings, and trim.

• Complete lighting and hardware installation.

• Seal and caulk appropriately.

10. Final Touches & Clean-up

• Inspect all work with the contractor.

• Address punch-list items.

• Final cleaning (dust, debris removal).

• Walkthrough with the homeowner to ensure satisfaction.

11. Project Handover & Warranty

• Turn over manuals, warranties, and maintenance tips.

• Ensure the homeowner knows how to care for new elements.

• Fix any post-occupancy issues under warranty.

Cost Factors & Return on Investment (ROI)

When planning a Grand Rapids home renovation, you’ll want to understand the variables that drive cost—and which upgrades deliver real value later.

Key Cost Drivers

• Scope & scale: Full house renovations cost exponentially more than single-room upgrades.

• Material quality: Custom cabinetry, natural stone, and high-end fixtures raise budgets.

• Structural changes: Removing load-bearing walls, adding windows or new roofs, or changing footprints is costly.

• Mechanical systems: Upgrading HVAC, plumbing, or electric adds complexity.

• Accessibility & site conditions: Tight spaces, multi-level homes, or lot constraints can increase labor time.

• Permits & codes: Ensuring compliance or making required upgrades can add unforeseen costs.

Typical ROI Zones

• Kitchen remodels: Often recoup ~60–80% in resale, depending on scope and quality.

• Bathroom upgrades: Midrange remodels usually yield strong payoff.

• Exterior improvements (roof, siding, windows): These are not only appealing but add lasting energy and maintenance value.

• Basement finishing: Adds usable square footage, increasing value.

• Outdoor living: Quality deck or patio often strengthens curb appeal and lifestyle value.

Working with a firm like Avalon, which handles both interior and exterior upgrades, can help align these ROI zones, control cost inflation from multiple vendors, and maintain design cohesion.

Local Considerations in Grand Rapids

Because every city has unique conditions, here are Grand Rapids–specific factors to consider for your home renovation:

• Weather & Climate: Michigan winters mean snow, freeze-thaw cycles, moisture exposure — prioritize quality roofing, siding, proper drainage, and well-sealed windows. Avalon’s exterior services are tailored to that environment. 

• Historic Neighborhoods: Many Grand Rapids homes have historical character. Any renovation in these neighborhoods may require permissions, neighborhood association oversight, or preservation guidelines.

• Local Regulations & Permitting: Be familiar with the City of Grand Rapids building regulations, inspections timeline, and fee structures.

• Supply & Labor Costs: Local suppliers and contractors may have different costs vs. more urban regions—plan accordingly.

• Storm Damage Risk: Due to Michigan’s storms, hail and wind damage are relevant. Avalon offers storm damage restoration services. 

• Home Market & Trends: Buyers in the Grand Rapids area look for energy efficiency, outdoor amenities, modern kitchens, and smart systems. Keeping those trends in mind helps future-proof your renovation.

How Avalon Remodels Can Optimize Your Project

By choosing a company like Avalon Remodels (Avalon Roofing & Exteriors / Avalon Building Concepts), your renovation can benefit in multiple ways:

1. Streamlined coordination
   Instead of juggling separate interior and exterior contractors, Avalon already offers both, which reduces miscommunication and scheduling conflicts.

2. Local experience & reputation
   Their long presence in the Grand Rapids region gives them insight into local vendors, permitting process, climate considerations, and typical challenges. 

3. Comprehensive service offering
   Whether you're replacing your roof, updating siding, remodeling your kitchen or finishing a basement, Avalon can cover many domains under one roof. 

4. Warranty & Accountability
   As an established firm, they likely provide warranties and have reviews and insurance to back up their work. 

5. Design Alignment
   Having a single point of vision makes it easier to maintain consistency in materials, style, and execution across different rooms and exterior elements.

Sample Project Ideas & Real-World Inspirations

Here are some renovation ideas and examples that fit well in Grand Rapids homes, which Avalon could execute:

• Kitchen refresh with a two-tone palette, hidden appliance garage, and quartz countertops

• Spa-style bathroom with rain shower, floating vanity, and heated floors

• Open-concept living with a structural beam, sliding glass wall to patio

• Basement turned into a media/game room with wet bar

• Siding and window upgrade to improve energy efficiency and curb appeal

• Addition of a screened porch or composite decking outdoor living

• Storm restoration after hail damage to roofing and siding

You’ll find similar types of projects among local remodelers in Grand Rapids, such as Renaissance Exteriors and Thompson Remodeling, reflecting the demand for both interior and exterior upgrades. 

Tips to Get Started (and Avoid Common Pitfalls)

Here are some practical tips if you’re considering your own Grand Rapids home renovation:

• Start early with planning — time is often the biggest variable.

• Secure multiple competitive bids — not just cheap ones, but truly comparable scopes.

• Ask for references — view their past work, speak with former clients.

• Look for hidden problems early — peeling paint, moisture stains, sagging floors may hint at deeper issues.

• Be flexible on finishes, rigid on layout — keep structural decisions fixed early; finishes can adjust.

• Hold money for the punch list — retain ~5–10% until final walk-through is complete.

• Communicate clearly and often — make sure you have a channel (app, email, weekly meeting) for updates.

• Think about future needs — age-in-place design, smart wiring, or expansion options.

• Don’t cut corners on waterproofing and drainage — exteriors, roofs, gutters are critical in Michigan’s climate.

• Document everything — photos, change orders, approvals.

Conclusion

A successful Grand Rapids Home Renovation is a blend of vision, practical planning, selecting the right partners, and executing with care. If you’re looking for a remodeler who brings both interior finesse and exterior strength, Avalon Remodels (Avalon Roofing & Exteriors / Avalon Building Concepts) may well be the partner you need. Their long-standing reputation in Western Michigan, breadth of services, and familiarity with local conditions make them a credible contender for your next project.

Whether you're dreaming of a dramatic kitchen overhaul, modernizing your home’s exterior, or creating more living space through basement finishing or outdoor additions — it all begins with a thoughtful plan and a trusted team. Use this guide as your roadmap, reach out with clear expectations, and watch your Grand Rapids home evolve into the space you’ve always wanted.