As the home remodeling landscape evolves across the country, Greater Lafayette has experienced its own unique set of changes over the last decade and a half. We sat down with Andy Haste, the owner of Riverside Construction, and Kelly Grish, our lead designer, to discuss the key shifts they've seen in the local remodeling industry, how homeowners' expectations have changed, and what the future holds for remodeling in this area.

Shifts in Style and Design

One of the most noticeable changes in Greater Lafayette's remodeling scene has been the evolution of design preferences. Kelly notes, “While the rustic farmhouse look still makes sense in some cases, we are definitely moving toward a more clean, minimal, and contemporary style while still blending with traditional touches. But at the same time, depending on the home, we’re still seeing demand for mid-century modern designs. People are gravitating toward higher-end finishes—builder-grade just isn’t cutting it anymore.”

Andy adds to this, mentioning a trend in mixing materials: “We’re seeing more and more homeowners choose two different paint colors or combine wood and paint in their kitchens. It’s not just about one consistent look; there’s a desire for variety, with islands in one color and perimeter cabinets in another.”

This trend extends beyond color. Kelly highlights the return of gold hardware and a greater willingness to mix metals. “People aren’t just sticking to one finish—they’re blending black, gold, and brushed nickel in the same space, creating unique, personalized looks.”‍

Changes in Materials and Features

When it comes to materials, both Andy and Kelly have noticed a shift. “Quartz is still very popular for countertops,” says Kelly, “but we’re also seeing people go back to granite or quartzite for a more natural look.”

Another growing trend is the shift away from fiberglass showers. “We’re installing far fewer fiberglass showers these days. Homeowners are opting for tiled showers, again, leaning towards that more upscale feel,” Kelly notes.

Andy also points out a focus on functional, high-end kitchens: “We’ve been doing more kitchens with professional-grade appliances lately. While this isn’t necessarily new nationwide, it’s becoming more common here in Greater Lafayette. It’s still not mainstream, but people are starting to realize the value of higher-end appliances.”

Evolving Homeowner Priorities

In terms of homeowner priorities, both Andy and Kelly agree that expectations have shifted significantly. “Homeowners today are far more design-conscious, and a lot of that comes from platforms like Pinterest,” Kelly explains. “They’re seeing these million-dollar looks and expecting us to deliver something similar on a more conservative budget.”

Andy echoes this sentiment, noting that while homeowners may not have East or West Coast budgets, they still want a touch of luxury. “We’ve gotten really good at translating those big-city designs to fit our clients here in the Midwest. People want their homes to feel luxurious but still practical and within their budget.”

Unique Challenges in Greater Lafayette Remodeling

One challenge that’s unique to remodeling in Greater Lafayette is the balance between keeping projects up to code and maintaining design flexibility. “It’s great that our local municipalities are strict with code enforcement because it ensures safety, but it does add complexity to the planning process,” Andy says. “Permitting isn’t difficult for us since we know the codes, but it’s something that can be overwhelming for homeowners. We work hard to take that burden off their shoulders.”

Another challenge that’s emerged, especially in West Lafayette, is the rising cost of homes in desirable school districts. “A lot of homeowners want to stay in their homes because they’re in good school districts, like West Lafayette,” Kelly explains. “Rather than moving, they’re choosing to invest in renovations to keep their family in the same area.”

Trends That Define Local Remodeling

Some trends have become staples in the Greater Lafayette area, such as larger showers and the removal of tubs. “People are moving away from smaller showers,” Andy notes. “They want more elbow room, and it’s not unusual for us to remove a bathtub altogether to make way for a nicer, bigger shower.”

Storage is another priority. Kelly says, “Maximizing storage, especially in kitchens, has become a big focus. We’re seeing more custom cabinetry with built-in accessories to make the space as functional as possible.”

Andy also points to the rising popularity of LED lighting. “We’ve gone from using standard incandescent lights to LED, which opens up so many more design possibilities. Kelly does a great job incorporating strip lights or under-cabinet lighting to create mood and ambiance in spaces.”

The Future of Remodeling in Greater Lafayette

Looking ahead, both Andy and Kelly believe that the remodeling market in Greater Lafayette will continue to thrive, largely due to current economic factors. “With interest rates likely dropping, it will make remodeling more affordable for many homeowners,” Andy says. “People are realizing it’s often more economical to invest in their current home than to buy a new one.”

Kelly predicts that some of the trends they’re seeing now—like the emphasis on larger showers, functional kitchens, and clean design aesthetics—will continue to grow. “I don’t see the demand for open concepts and functional spaces going away anytime soon. People want homes that are not only beautiful but practical for their everyday lives.”

Ultimately, the future of remodeling in Greater Lafayette is bright. Homeowners are looking to elevate their spaces, and with the right design, they can achieve that touch of luxury while still staying true to their Midwest roots.

Considering remodeling? Click 'Schedule a Conversation' below to meet with Andy.