Whether you’re deep in the planning phase or just starting to think about a renovation, knowing what other homeowners are doing — and spending — can help you set expectations and make smarter decisions. Here are highlights from the recently released 2026 U.S. Houzz & Home Study, including the most popular rooms to tackle, what homeowners are spending and what’s landing in outdoor spaces.
1. Planning Takes More Time Than Construction
From the first spark of an idea to the final nail, renovations unfold over several months — and the planning phase typically takes longer than the construction itself. Kitchen projects top the list with an average of 9.5 months of planning and 5.8 months of construction. Primary bathrooms follow with 8.4 months of planning and 4.8 months of work, while dining rooms average 7.6 months of planning and 4.8 months of construction.
Smaller projects tell the same story. Closets average 6.6 months of planning and 4.3 months of construction; home offices average 6.1 months of planning and 3.4 months of construction.
2. Homeowners Take On a Mix of Project Types
Interior rooms — including kitchens, bathrooms and dining rooms — were the most commonly renovated in 2025, with 67% of respondents taking them on, followed by home system upgrades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC and the like) at 62%. More than half (57%) took on home exterior projects such as windows and roofing, and 54% tackled outdoor improvements, including decks, lawns and irrigation systems.
Read more: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/11-things-to-know-before-your-next-renovation-stsetivw-vs~185079169