Whether you’re looking to enhance your living space or completely transform your home, remodeling offers endless possibilities.

From stylish home decor and cutting-edge electronics to perfect lighting that sets the mood, the right updates can breathe new life into any room. Whether upgrading your kitchen with sleek appliances, reimagining your bathroom with spa-like features or creating the ultimate man cave or she shed, the expert advice in this guide will help bring your vision to life.

We consulted top professionals experienced in various aspects of home remodeling—inside and out—for tips on where to start and what to look for, in addition to the latest trends and advice on choosing top-notch contractors.

These expert insights will help you navigate the remodeling process and ensure you’re making informed decisions for every space in your home, from selecting the perfect materials for exterior painting to considering the best pool designs for your backyard oasis. 

Bathrooms

When it comes to remodels and updating, bathrooms are one of the most common rooms to address. Take heart! You don’t have to gut the room and completely start over to enjoy a major change.

As with any home remodeling project, start with your budget. Decide if you’re keeping the current layout and remember that moving plumbing or walls can have a big impact on cost.

New flooring is often on the wish list, but don’t cut corners on installation.

“When done correctly, flooring in the bathroom should run under the cabinetry. It’s not recommended to put new material on top of existing tile or flooring,” says Cystal Hernandez, owner and lead interior designer of Crystal Design Co. in Mount Dora.

“If you’re on a budget and need to redo the floor in an old bathroom, buy a prefab vanity, which is half the cost of custom cabinetry,” advises Crystal, who says that big box stores have surprisingly good options for ready-made vanities with sink and hardware included.

“Bathrooms are confined spaces and don’t have to match the rest of the house, so you can add character,” says Crystal. “The powder room, especially, is a place where you can really get creative with interior design, like a rich color, unique stone, or patterned wallpaper on the walls, which can completely transform a space.”

Solid, textured wallpaper is an upgrade that feels more luxurious than just repainting a wall.

If your bathroom only has overhead lighting, add sconces to flank mirrors or install a large vanity light above the main mirror.

Crystal points out that every room—not just bathrooms—should have multiple lighting sources. “You should have enough secondary lighting and natural light that you don’t always have to turn on overhead lights,” she notes.

If you don’t have gorgeous wood cabinets, but they’re in good shape, painting them is another way to totally change the look of a bathroom without incurring huge expense.

Kitchens

You may opt for total renovation if your kitchen is too small or doesn’t meet your needs. If your kitchen is functional, you can just refresh it with material changes.

A refresh or remodel is all about bringing new life into a space. And focusing on a few areas can make a dramatic impact.

Always start with a budget. But be forewarned, expect to spend double or triple if it’s been 10 or more years since your last renovation or refresh.

But there is a silver lining.

“While the trades have gotten more expensive—along with everything else—the skill level is now more advanced,” Crystal says. “In the end, you’re getting something more creative, especially when it comes to cabinetry, lighting and materiality.”

If you can only afford to change three things, give your kitchen a fresh new look by replacing:

• Countertops
• Hardware
• Light fixtures

When a kitchen has quality wood cabinetry, Crystal prefers not to paint it, but to change out other finishes.

“Rich wood tones are in style and trending, but changing countertops by adding a beautiful marble or quartz makes a huge difference,” she notes.

Swap out all the hardware, including knobs and pulls, faucets and light fixtures.

“Don’t be afraid to mix metals. It’s okay to match stainless with bronze, and to introduce linen, leather and woven textures in the light fixtures,” Crystal advises. “This gives a home character, as opposed to being all one finish, which feels ‘builder grade.’”

“The all-white kitchen is totally yesterday,” Crystal says. “People are starting to lean into what makes them feel good in design, whether that’s color or unique furnishings. The whole point of interior design is to make you feel inspired—anything but bored.”

Don’t fill every space. Be intentional about the art pieces you display. It’s okay to have a blank wall. 

Crystal Hernandez
www.crystaldesignco.com
hello@crystaldesignco.com

Home Décor

Transforming your home with beautiful, functional decor can feel overwhelming, but interior designer Tiffany Whitley of Humble Abode Interiors breaks it down into simple, actionable steps.

“It’s about creating a palette and finding a balance that reflects their personality and compliments the surroundings,” Tiffany says.

Whether you’re embarking on a full remodel or refreshing a single room, here’s how to approach your project with confidence.

Vision: Before you begin, think about the purpose of the space and the vibe you want to create. Gather inspiration through photos, magazines and Pinterest boards to clarify your goals. This foundation will ensure a cohesive result and help guide your choices in colors, furniture and décor.

Budget: Establishing a budget starts with prioritizing which areas need the most attention. Research material and labor costs and consider consulting a reliable contractor to avoid surprises. Being prepared can save time and money down the road. Even without a big budget, you can make meaningful changes. A fresh coat of paint, decluttering and rearranging furniture can refresh a space. Repurpose existing items to give them new life or reorganize for a polished and inviting look.

Essentials for Key Areas: For living rooms, invest in layered lighting with dimmers, comfortable seating, cozy textiles and natural elements like plants and wooden accents. Add personal touches, such as unique artwork or décor. For smaller bedrooms, use mirrors to create the illusion of space and maximize storage with multi-functional furniture or organized closets. Keep designs simple to prevent overcrowding.

Paint: Consider lighting, room orientation and the mood of colors when selecting paint. Warm tones can brighten a north-facing room, while cooler tones work well in sunny, south-facing spaces. Test samples in the room before making a final decision.

Tips: Look beyond big-box stores for decor. Visit local shops, antique shows and unique galleries to discover pieces that resonate with your personality. A home should be a reflection of who you are, so select items that bring joy and inspire you daily. “Create a home that is not only beautiful but also functional and uniquely yours,” Tiffany says. “Take your time, trust the process and enjoy the transformation.”

Tiffany Whitley
Humble Abode Interiors

352.408.3415
Humbleabodeinteriors.com
Tiffany@humbleabodeinteriors.com

Lighting and Electronics

The latest trends in home lighting focus on energy efficiency, versatility and a return to natural aesthetics with emerging technologies.

On the design side, glass lighting provides versatility, and you can find everything from sleek and minimalist designs to warm, inviting styles that feel right at home in a cozy space. And if you love a touch of nature, materials like wicker, seagrass and bamboo are making their way into lighting, blending texture and craftsmanship for an artisanal vibe.

Layered lighting combines ambient, task and accent lighting so designers are creating spaces that feel dynamic and personalized. Oversized fixtures, recessed lighting and cozy lamps are all part of the trend. Perfect for indoor/outdoor or above the breakfast nook is the Fandelier. It’s exactly what it sounds like—a fan and chandelier in one, offering beautiful light and a cool breeze.

For tech, OLEDs are flexible, energy-efficient lights that emit a soft, natural glow and can be molded into creative shapes that are perfect for modern homes or anyone who likes a little flair in their fixtures. Adaptive lighting systems (which are getting smarter by the day) use built-in sensors to adjust brightness and color temperature based on the time of day or whether anyone’s in the room.

“Remember, lighting begins with practicality,” says Robert Wydler, a veteran lighting specialist at Besco Lighting in Leesburg who stresses the importance of timeless basics. “A bulb replacement can be done by anyone, whereas a complicated system has to be repaired by an expert.” 

He says that the modern light bulb has come so far that brightness can be altered in up to four stages. 

Robert emphasizes the importance of placing light in the right spot in every room. “Every room should feature three sources of light: task lighting for specific activities, ambient lighting for overall illumination and accent lighting to highlight décor.”

Robert also suggests advanced technologies like color-changing temperature (CCT) LED bulbs and home automation systems such as Lutron’s Caséta Pico Kit. 

“Home automation is the future, and the technology is here to help,” Robert says.

Besco Electric Supply
711 S. 14th St., Leesburg, FL
www.bescolights.com

Pools

When it comes to turning a backyard into a personal oasis, a pool can be a game-changer. Shawn Wiseman, owner of Wiseman Pools since 2007, has spent nearly two decades helping homeowners create their dream outdoor spaces. Whether building new pools or remodeling existing ones, Wiseman’s advice ensures clients avoid costly mistakes.

What to look for in a pool company

“Make sure they’re a licensed and insured contractor in the state of Florida,” Shawn emphasizes. “You might come across independent plaster guys, but they may not be licensed to handle the job.”

He advises homeowners to confirm there’s enough space for a pool and to research permitting requirements and HOA rules before starting a pool project. 

“HOAs or even cities can have restrictions, like setbacks or fencing bans,” Shawn notes.

Trends and features for 2025

Shawn says modern pools are evolving with exciting features. 

“Glass tile for the waterline is becoming popular,” says Shawn, who says that the tiles draw inspiration from mosaic designs seen in kitchens, bathrooms and backsplashes. 

LED lighting offering energy efficiency and customizable colors controlled via smartphone apps or pool control systems is another must-have.

For remodels, many homeowners are replacing standard concrete decks with luxurious finishes like travertine or marble overlays. Other popular additions include sun shelves—shallow ledges perfect for lounge chairs and umbrellas—and sleek sheet waterfalls that add visual appeal without requiring extensive modifications. 

“Adding these features is easier if it’s a new pool, but even during a remodel, they’re achievable with proper planning,” Shawn explains.

And since pools are becoming hubs for outdoor entertainment, you may want to accessorize with summer kitchens and outdoor televisions.

“People want to relax, cook and entertain around their pool,” Shawn says.

Practical Considerations

Shawn stresses the importance of planning for maintenance and safety. 

“About 95% of pools we build now are screened in,” he says. “Screens keep debris, bugs and animals out and satisfy Florida’s code for barriers. Where screens aren’t an option, code-compliant fencing is needed.”

And since pools can be a significant investment, ongoing maintenance is essential. Regular cleaning, water chemistry checks and equipment maintenance can extend the life of a pool.

“A pool is a long-term investment, and just like any asset, it requires care,” Shawn advises. “Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs or replacements.”

significant investment, ongoing maintenance is essential. Regular cleaning, water chemistry checks and equipment maintenance can extend the life of a pool.

“A pool is a long-term investment, and just like any asset, it requires care,” Shawn advises. “Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs or replacements.”

Wiseman Pools
1517 W. Main St., Leesburg
352.491.3766
www.wisemanpools.com

Exterior Paint

Painting the exterior of your home is more than a cosmetic upgrade—it’s an investment in longevity and value. According to Omar Contreras of Omar’s Painting Inc., headquartered in Lady Lake, homeowners should prioritize the highest quality products and craftsmanship over cost, if possible.

Omar emphasizes the importance of choosing durable, weather-resistant paints such as Sherwin-Williams Duration or Emerald lines. 

“We always use top-of-the-line products from Sherwin-Williams. They’re one of the top brands, and I highly suggest two coats. It comes with a warranty and it’s like you’re investing in your home’s future,” Omar says.

He adds that homes with contractor-grade paints typically used in new construction may require repainting sooner—around two to five years—because lower-quality paints often become chalky and dry much sooner than better quality paints.

“It’s better to spend more upfront and avoid repainting every few years,” Omar says. “Quality paint can last 10 to 12 years, making it worth the investment.”

Before repainting, Omar advises keeping an eye out for signs of wear, such as cracking, fading and chalkiness. 

“When you start to notice any of these signs, it’s about time to repaint; so, try not to wait, just do it,” Omar says. “Sometimes people say, ‘Oh no, I can wait another year or two,’ but waiting can make the condition of your house worse and harder to work with.”

Omar suggests entrusting the paint job to licensed and insured professionals who prioritize preparation. Omar’s team ensures surfaces are clean by pressure washing, addressing cracks, re-caulking windows and removing obstructions like downspouts and mulch before applying paint.

“I treat every house I paint as if it were my own,” Omar says. 

He adds that when searching for a painter, you should read reviews, check their records, make sure they’re licensed and insured and trust your gut when it comes to who you click with and who seems trustworthy.

For a modern touch, neutral tones like grays and beiges are currently trending. To enhance curb appeal, consider adding darker accents to shutters or the front door for a rich, polished look.

Omar’s Painting Inc.
40108 Orange Cir., Lady Lake
352.434.7072
www.omarspaintinginc.com

Personal Spaces

In today’s busy world, personalized retreats like she sheds and man caves are more popular than ever, and for good reason. Beyond being trendy, these spaces offer tangible psychological and lifestyle benefits which make them an essential part of modern home design and home improvement for many.

She sheds and man caves are more than just cool places to chill. Research shows that having a dedicated space as a sanctuary for relaxation or a hobby can reduce stress, improve mental health and spark creativity.

She sheds often serve as tranquil spaces for yoga, crafting or quiet reflection and can become reading nooks, home offices or workout spaces. 

Traditional man caves tend to cater to indulgence with gaming set-ups, mini bars and/or sports memorabilia and may feature pool tables, dartboards or home theaters. 

Some couples are even merging the two into “we-sheds,” shared retreats for relaxation and connection.

These retreats aren’t just about comfort. They can also add value to your property. A well-designed space that complements your home boosts curb appeal and attracts potential buyers.

Creating the perfect addition may require planning, so working with a professional is important if you plan to go beyond basic décor and DIY design via the nearest home improvement store or hobby shop.

“Check zoning regulations and ensure the structure meets codes,” advises Nick Smith, owner of Trident Construction in Eustis. “Insulation and other functional elements are critical before tackling the fun stuff like décor and finishes.”

Nick, who emphasizes starting with the basics, has noticed a growing trend of homeowners incorporating these spaces into multi-generational living setups. So versatility is critical for alternative uses. 

“We’re seeing younger couples planning for their parents’ future needs,” he says. “Adding a unit as a way to prepare for a parent as they age is becoming more and more popular. People can also use these spaces for kids returning from college who may need a spot to land before they go out on their own.”

Whether it’s a backyard shed, refurbished garage or a basement cave, these retreats are all about creating functional yet personal spaces that bring balance and joy to our hectic lives.  

To contact Nick at Trident Construction in Eustis: nick@tridentconstruct.com

Nick is also the President of the Lake and Sumter County Home Builders Association.

Photos: Provided

Story by: Roxanne Brown, Gina Horan, Cynthia McFarland and Cindy Peterson