From Floorplans to Finishes: The Trendiest Home and Cottage Upgrades Going into 2025

2025 is shaping up to be a big year for home and cottage upgrades, and if you’re planning a reno, you’ll want to know what’s in and worth your time (and money). Whether you’re sprucing up your city home or giving your northern Ontario cottage a refresh, this year’s trends are all about smart choices, practical upgrades, and a little bit of flair. Here’s the lowdown on what’s hot—and what’s not.

1. Sustainable Materials: Good for Your Space and the Planet

Sustainability is no longer just a "nice to have"—it’s become a top priority. Materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, and even recycled glass are trending because they’re stylish, durable, and eco-friendly. Think exposed wood beams for your cottage or sleek, recycled countertops for your home. Not only do these materials look great, but they also give your space a story.

Tip: Invest in high-quality, sustainable finishes. They’re better for the environment and save you from replacing things down the road. Bonus—they also increase your home’s resale value.

2. Smart Homes: Welcome to the Future

If you haven’t jumped on the smart home train yet, 2025 is the year to do it. Smart tech is about making life easier—think lighting you can control from your phone, thermostats that learn your habits, and security systems that give you peace of mind. For cottages, this stuff is especially handy. Imagine checking in on your place from the city to make sure the heat’s on, or the pipes aren’t frozen.

Tip: Choose​​ smart systems that you’ll actually use. Skip the gimmicky stuff that might feel cool initially but are more trouble than they’re worth.

3. Multifunctional Spaces: Do More with Less

Gone are the days when rooms had one job. The trend now is to create spaces that work harder for you. A home office that doubles as a guest room, a cottage dining nook that’s also a workstation—these spaces are practical, especially if you’re working with limited square footage. The key? Built-in storage and furniture that can pull double duty.

Tip: Multifunctional doesn’t mean cluttered. Keep things organized with smart storage, and your space will feel bigger and more intentional.

4. Bringing the Outdoors In: Biophilic Design is Here to Stay

We know “biophilic design” sounds fancy, but it’s really just about making your space feel more connected to nature. This trend includes big windows, natural materials, and loads of greenery. It’s a no-brainer for cottages—your surroundings are half the reason you’re there, right? But even urban homes can embrace this vibe with wood finishes, stone accents, and strategically placed plants.

Tip: Natural elements don’t just look good—they actually make your space feel more relaxing and inviting.

5. Kitchens and Bathrooms: Bold, Beautiful, and Worth the Investment

In 2025, you want to spend your money on kitchens and bathrooms. Kitchens are bold, with statement islands, two-tone cabinetry, and unique backsplashes. In bathrooms, it’s all about spa vibes: freestanding tubs, oversized showers, and luxe materials like marble or stone.

Tip: Go big on finishes like countertops and tile. Where to save? Trendy fixtures that might feel dated in a few years.

6. Outdoor Living Spaces: Extend Your Home

Outdoor spaces are officially part of the main event. Think outdoor kitchens, cozy fire pits, and weather-proof furniture that lets you enjoy your deck or patio year-round. Upgrades like screened-in porches or bigger decks are game-changers for cottages, especially when entertaining.

Tip: Canadian winters are no joke, so use durable materials that can handle the elements. It’s an upfront investment, but you’ll thank yourself later.

If you’re wondering where to allocate your budget, here’s the deal: spend on things that make a significant impact and have staying power. High-quality, sustainable materials, smart tech you’ll actually use, and upgrades to kitchens and bathrooms are all solid bets. Skip anything overly trendy you’ll be itching to replace in a few years.

Whether you’re updating your home, refreshing your cottage, or both, these 2025 trends are all about creating spaces that feel good to live in.

Thinking about tackling a renovation? Contact us today—we’ll help you make it happen.