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Inspiration for a large eclectic open concept living room remodel in Las Vegas

In 2026, DIY home design and renovation will become easier than ever. Free mobile apps like Houzz, Homestyler, and Planner 5D will put professional tools in everyone’s pocket, letting users visualize layouts, test colors, and estimate costs before buying materials. Experts predict that over 50% of homeowners will use apps to plan upgrades. It will save money and reduce costly mistakes. Even now, about 54% prefer mobile tools.
Why Mobile Apps are Changing Home Renovation
DIY renovation has changed a lot in recent years. Homeowners don’t have to rely on sketches or guesswork anymore. Thanks to AR, AI, and 3D renderings, apps can show exactly how furniture and cabinets will fit. By 2026, many of these tools will be free - and packed with features that rival expensive software. With just a smartphone, anyone can try out layouts, test colors, and even create detailed floor plans.
The Tech Behind Modern Design Apps
Most renovation apps now leverage AI to generate design suggestions. They are based on your space and preferences. Upload a photo of your room. The algorithms will check the sizes, lighting, and features. Then, they’ll suggest furniture layouts or color schemes. Some apps use your phone’s camera and sensor. They make accurate measurements, so you won’t need tape measures or notepads.
Top Free Apps Transforming DIY Projects
Houzz continues to lead the pack with its massive photo library and ability to connect users with local contractors. The platform now gives AI design suggestions. It looks at your style preferences across millions of professional spaces.
For anyone serious about planning their next project, exploring comprehensive resources helps narrow down what works. It’s just like in iGaming, where review platforms like Slotzilla help gamblers to find casinos with user-friendly tools, bonus rounds, and progressive jackpots that will work for them.
Planner 5D shines with realistic 3D renderings and a huge furniture catalog, letting you switch between 2D plans and 3D walkthroughs - even in VR. Room Planner helps you design practical layouts. You can easily arrange furniture and check dimensions. It offers real-time 3D views and features items from real brands.
Apps for Specific Renovation Tasks
Not every project needs full 3D renderings - sometimes you just want to try paint colors or test tile patterns. ColorSnap by Sherwin-Williams uses AR to show colors on your actual walls and even matches shades from photos. Magicplan makes creating floor plans easy by measuring rooms with your phone as you walk around. Both apps help plan renovations and communicate ideas without the guesswork.
Budget Tracking and Project Management
Renovation apps do more than make spaces look good - managing budgets and timelines is just as important. HomeZada even uses AI to predict your budget and track material prices, so DIYers don’t get hit with surprise costs. Trello is a lifesaver - set deadlines, track progress, and share updates with anyone helping on the project.
How Apps Reflect 2026 Design Trends
This year’s popular apps reflect the largest home design trends. Colorful rooms are on the rise. Zillow shows a 149% increase in listings. Plus, apps like Houzz let users test bold shades before making a choice. Cozy reading nooks are also on the rise, showing up in nearly half of listings. Renovation apps now provide templates. They include tips for shelves and lighting. This helps create cozy, thoughtful spaces.
Here’s a quick comparison of what different free apps offer:
App name
Best feature
Learning curve
Platform
Houzz
25M+ inspiration photos
Easy
iOS, Android
Planner 5D
Photorealistic 3D renders
Moderate
iOS, Android, Web
Room Planner
Accurate measurements
Easy
iOS, Android
Magicplan
Auto floor plan creation
Easy
iOS, Android
Natural materials and earthy tones will lead design trends in 2026. Warm neutrals will take over from the grey-and-white minimalism of the last ten years.
The AI Revolution in Home Design
AI is no longer just a gimmick in renovation apps. Chat features can suggest furniture layouts, color palettes, and materials for your budget. It’s like having a designer on call. Renovate AI turns photos of your room into multiple style ideas in seconds, from mid-century to rustic farmhouse. It’s great for brainstorming and getting past the “I don’t know what I want” stage.
Practical Tips for Using Renovation Apps
Getting the most from design apps requires a strategic approach. Here are essential steps every DIYer should follow:
Start by gathering inspiration. Look through photo libraries on Houzz or Pinterest. Then, dive into detailed planning.
Don’t rely solely on screen colors; get actual paint chips and fabric swatches.
Save multiple design versions. Create variations of your plan to compare options side-by-side.
This workflow helps you avoid common mistakes. It leads to better design choices before you buy anything.
When Apps Aren’t Enough
Digital tools can’t do everything. Big structural changes, electrical work, or plumbing always need a pro. Apps are great for planning and talking with contractors, but they can’t replace expertise. And always check textures in real life - that sofa might look perfect on screen, but feel different.
The Future of DIY Renovation
In 2026, renovation apps will become smarter. They’ll have voice control and better AR. Improved AI will make DIY design feel more like professional services. Creating beautiful, functional spaces is easier than ever. For homeowners, it’s important to use apps that match local materials and building codes. The biggest benefit is confidence - seeing your design in 3D makes projects far less intimidating.

3 cm Cambrian Black Satin Granite |
Edge Profile: 3 cm with double pencil edge |
Sink Type: apron front/farm |
Stone Supplier: Intrepid Marble & Granite |
Remodeler: Olson & Jones Construction |
photo credit - de la tierra, inc. (09/2010)
Find the right local pro for your project

Designed by Samantha Souders of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Springfield, VA in collaboration with ACG Development LLC, this two-finish kitchen design in Vienna, VA features Merillat Masterpiece cabinets in the Hadley Maple door style. The perimeter kitchen cabinets feature a Dove White with Cinder Glaze cabinet finish and kitchen island features a Slate cabinet finish. The kitchen design also features 2 different countertop colors. The perimeter countertop is done in Silestone Eternal Serena and the kitchen island countertop is Cambria Brittanica. Kitchen appliances are Jenn-Air. Photos courtesy of BTW Images LLC.

Four dramatic gables raise this plan to new heights, while inside, vaulted and nine foot ceilings create maximum volume.
Although impressive and airy, this elegant executive home stays warm from dual fireplaces: one in the two-story family room warms up family gatherings, while a second fireplace in the study urges quiet contemplation. Rear bays expand space and maximize natural light.
The master suite with angled entrance for privacy has it all: sitting bay, whirlpool tub, double lavs, and separate shower.
Extra room is added by a skylit bonus room and ample attic storage.

Maple Grove, MN
This bathroom remodel was part of a whole Lower Level update. The existing bathroom lacked the rustic look that the homeowner’s wanted and the space was not being fully utilized. A neo-angle shower was replaced with a larger rectangular shape that adds much needed elbow room for a better bathing experience. Porcelain slate tile on the walls in combination with the smooth, river rock floor and accent stripe up the wall add character and the rustic feeling the homeowner’s desired. A larger beech wood vanity and linen cabinet gained the homeowner’s lots of storage space for towels and toiletries.
JH Peterson

Beautiful custom master bathroom created from an upstairs open game room area. The bathroom is expansive so we selected colors and patterns that would make the area come together cohesively and provide an elegant yet comfortable look that you just want to sink into after a long day. The patterned floor tile is to die for and large format vertical subway tiles frame the shower area, accentuated with a grey grout. The custom vanity cabinets are made from white oak and add subtle color to the room. The gorgeous mirror and pendant lights bring everything together here.

"We took bids from seven or eight companies to remodel our kitchen and bathroom. We had a whole list of improvements we wanted, from 'must-haves' to 'might be nice someday'. We selected TaylorPro Home Services for several reasons, but foremost among those reasons was that the owner, Kerry Taylor, provided us with a detailed breakout of labor/material costs for every option. Nearly every other contractor bundled up the costs of our optional tasks into a single number, which made it quite difficult to select the best options based on our priorities and budget. Kerry's highly detailed proposal wasn't the least expensive we received, but it was organized, thorough, and competitive.
The second reason we selected TaylorPro was the demeanor and experience of Kerry himself. It was refreshing to talk to someone who actually gets his hands dirty rather than yet another designer with his head in a computer. (God bless the designers, though -- we had helpful conversations with many!) Kerry has a good design aesthetic, make no mistake, but it was clear that when problems inevitably popped up, Kerry would know how to address them. He is calm, personable, and competent. In other words, he is just the sort of person you want to work with.
We can't forget to mention the TaylorPro crew. The first thing you notice is how youthful they are. Not a single gray hair among them. Yet after watching them work awhile, you begin to notice how extraordinarily skilful they are. It doesn't matter what is on the day's agenda -- electrical, paint, plumbing, drywall -- these guys tackle it all and do it exceedingly well. They aren't just putting in their time and collecting a check. They take terrific pride in the work they do, a quality that seems more and more difficult to find these days. They are pleasant to be around and I never heard a cross word among them. They took pains to keep the noise and dust to a minimum. They cleaned up at the end of every day, even those days when they put in extra hours and were obviously very tired. This is easily the best work crew we've ever had at our house.
We should also mention that the subcontractors that TaylorPro uses are top-notch. The folks who laid down our new tile floor (Jeff) had every bit as much expertise and integrity as TaylorPro. They did an excellent job on both the flooring and the tile backsplash. These two elements receive compliments from everyone who visits our remodeled kitchen. (We wish Jeff would put his company on Angie's List so that we could give him the recognition he deserves!) In addition, the fellows who fabricated our Caesarstone countertop were also great craftsmen. They did a beautiful job. When we noticed a small blemish a few days after the countertop was installed, they came out immediately and corrected the problem. Nice!
In summary, TaylorPro has lived up to all the glowing recommendations here on Angie's List. Our experience with TaylorPro is right in line with the others. They stayed on task, they communicated well, they stayed on budget, and they gave us more than we had any right to expect. We don't know a better compliment to give Kerry and company than this: when it comes time to remodel the upstairs bathrooms, we won't need to solicit seven or eight bids. We'll just call TaylorPro. "
~ Lysa & Mark W, Clients
Photos by: Kerry W Taylor

"We took bids from seven or eight companies to remodel our kitchen and bathroom. We had a whole list of improvements we wanted, from 'must-haves' to 'might be nice someday'. We selected TaylorPro Home Services for several reasons, but foremost among those reasons was that the owner, Kerry Taylor, provided us with a detailed breakout of labor/material costs for every option. Nearly every other contractor bundled up the costs of our optional tasks into a single number, which made it quite difficult to select the best options based on our priorities and budget. Kerry's highly detailed proposal wasn't the least expensive we received, but it was organized, thorough, and competitive.
The second reason we selected TaylorPro was the demeanor and experience of Kerry himself. It was refreshing to talk to someone who actually gets his hands dirty rather than yet another designer with his head in a computer. (God bless the designers, though -- we had helpful conversations with many!) Kerry has a good design aesthetic, make no mistake, but it was clear that when problems inevitably popped up, Kerry would know how to address them. He is calm, personable, and competent. In other words, he is just the sort of person you want to work with.
We can't forget to mention the TaylorPro crew. The first thing you notice is how youthful they are. Not a single gray hair among them. Yet after watching them work awhile, you begin to notice how extraordinarily skilful they are. It doesn't matter what is on the day's agenda -- electrical, paint, plumbing, drywall -- these guys tackle it all and do it exceedingly well. They aren't just putting in their time and collecting a check. They take terrific pride in the work they do, a quality that seems more and more difficult to find these days. They are pleasant to be around and I never heard a cross word among them. They took pains to keep the noise and dust to a minimum. They cleaned up at the end of every day, even those days when they put in extra hours and were obviously very tired. This is easily the best work crew we've ever had at our house.
We should also mention that the subcontractors that TaylorPro uses are top-notch. The folks who laid down our new tile floor (Jeff) had every bit as much expertise and integrity as TaylorPro. They did an excellent job on both the flooring and the tile backsplash. These two elements receive compliments from everyone who visits our remodeled kitchen. (We wish Jeff would put his company on Angie's List so that we could give him the recognition he deserves!) In addition, the fellows who fabricated our Caesarstone countertop were also great craftsmen. They did a beautiful job. When we noticed a small blemish a few days after the countertop was installed, they came out immediately and corrected the problem. Nice!
In summary, TaylorPro has lived up to all the glowing recommendations here on Angie's List. Our experience with TaylorPro is right in line with the others. They stayed on task, they communicated well, they stayed on budget, and they gave us more than we had any right to expect. We don't know a better compliment to give Kerry and company than this: when it comes time to remodel the upstairs bathrooms, we won't need to solicit seven or eight bids. We'll just call TaylorPro. "
~ Lysa & Mark W, Clients
Photos by: Kerry W. Taylor

Professional wallpaper installation Old Town requires expertise that honors the neighborhood's historic character while delivering modern durability and beauty.
Project Overview and Architecture
This Old Town wallpaper installation showcased our ability to work with the area's distinctive architecture, from classic greystones to renovated vintage condos that define this prestigious neighborhood.
Materials and Products
We selected premium wallpaper materials specifically designed for Chicago's climate conditions, using high-quality adhesives and primers that ensure long-lasting adhesion on various surface types.
Installation Process
Step 1: Surface preparation including cleaning, smoothing, and addressing imperfections common in older buildings
Step 2: Professional repairs to walls ensuring perfect foundation for wallpaper application
Step 3: Quality primer application designed specifically for wallpaper adhesion and longevity
Step 4: Expert wallpaper installation with precise pattern matching and seamless application techniques
Chicago-Specific Challenges
Old Town homes present unique challenges including weather exposure, aging building materials, potential lead paint considerations, and vintage surfaces requiring specialized preparation techniques.
Results Achieved
Windy City Painters delivered flawless wallpaper installation that enhanced the room's aesthetic while respecting the architectural integrity of this historic Old Town property.
Professional Tips
Homeowners should always hire experienced professionals for wallpaper installation, especially in historic properties where surface preparation and material selection significantly impact long-term success and beauty.
See more work and request free estimate at windypainters.com.
FAQs
Q: Why hire professionals for wallpaper installation Old Town homes? / A: Expert installation prevents costly mistakes, ensures proper adhesion, and preserves historic property values through quality craftsmanship.
Q: What wallpaper materials work best in Chicago climate? / A: High-quality papers with proper backing designed for humidity fluctuations and temperature changes typical in Chicago homes.
Q: How do you prepare Old Town walls for wallpaper? / A: Thorough cleaning, surface smoothing, repairs, and specialized primers ensure optimal wallpaper installation adhesion and longevity.
Q: Can wallpaper be installed over existing paint? / A: Sometimes, but professional assessment determines if surface preparation or primer application is needed for successful wallpaper installation.
Q: How long does professional wallpaper installation take? / A: Most rooms completed within one day, depending on size, pattern complexity, and surface preparation requirements.
Q: What about removing old wallpaper first? / A: We safely remove existing wallpaper using proper techniques that protect walls and prepare surfaces for new installation.
Q: Do you offer design consultation for wallpaper selection? / A: Yes, we help choose patterns and materials that complement Old Town architectural character and personal style preferences.
Q: How do you handle pattern matching across walls? / A: Precise measurements and expert techniques ensure seamless wallpaper installation with perfect pattern alignment throughout rooms.
Q: What's your wallpaper installation warranty coverage? / A: Comprehensive warranties cover both materials and workmanship, giving you confidence in your wallpaper installation investment.
Q: Can you work around furniture and schedules? / A: Absolutely! We coordinate timing and setup to minimize disruption during your professional wallpaper installation project.

How Can I Reduce the Cost of Remodeling a Bathroom? Allreno Design AI
Renovating a bathroom is an exciting but often expensive project. Homeowners frequently worry about how to balance quality with affordability. Fortunately, there are smart strategies to cut costs without sacrificing style. Whether you're updating a bathroom vanity, retiling the floor, or overhauling the entire space, making informed decisions can help you save thousands.
At Allreno, we understand that affordability and quality go hand in hand. That’s why we developed the Allreno Design App, a cutting-edge tool that simplifies the bath renovation process and helps homeowners make cost-effective choices. Here’s how you can reduce expenses on your next bathroom remodel:
1. Plan Ahead with a Budget
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is starting a renovation without a clear budget. Before you begin, list all the necessary expenses, including labor, materials, and unexpected costs. Using tools like the Allreno Design App, you can visualize your remodel and get instant cost estimates based on your selections.
2. Choose a Cost-Effective Bathroom Vanity
A bathroom vanity is often the focal point of a bathroom remodel. Instead of opting for a custom-built unit, consider ready-to-assemble or pre-designed vanities. Allreno partners with top manufacturers to offer stylish, high-quality vanities at competitive prices, helping you save money without compromising on design.
3. Keep the Plumbing Where It Is
Relocating plumbing fixtures—such as sinks, toilets, and showers—can significantly increase labor costs. Keeping your layout intact can save you thousands in contractor fees. The Allreno Design App allows you to experiment with different configurations while ensuring you stay within your budget.
4. Refinish Instead of Replacing
Instead of replacing your bathtub, tiles, or countertops, consider refinishing them. Reglazing a tub, repainting cabinets, or updating hardware can make a huge difference at a fraction of the cost. Small changes can have a big impact without the need for a full replacement.
5. Shop Smart for Materials
Purchasing materials strategically can lead to big savings. Look for clearance items, buy in bulk, and compare prices across different suppliers. Allreno simplifies this by connecting you with trusted vendors and providing access to exclusive discounts on bath renovation materials.
6. Do Some of the Work Yourself
While some tasks require professionals, there are many things you can do on your own, such as painting, installing new hardware, or even assembling a pre-made bathroom vanity. If you're comfortable with DIY projects, this can significantly reduce labor costs.
7. Use Technology to Your Advantage
The Allreno Design App is a game-changer in the renovation industry. It helps homeowners design their ideal bathroom, estimate costs, and even connect with local professionals. By using AI-driven recommendations, the app ensures you get the best value without unnecessary expenses.
Conclusion
Bathroom remodeling doesn’t have to break the bank. By planning ahead, making smart material choices, and leveraging technology like the Allreno Design App, you can achieve a beautiful, budget-friendly bathroom. Whether you're upgrading a bathroom vanity or tackling a full bath renovation, these strategies will help you save money while creating a space you love.
www.allreno.co

Living room - large eclectic open concept living room idea in Las Vegas with a standard fireplace

Organized Living freedomRail is a home storage system that is known for its high quality components. These slide out components feature full-extension drawer glides and can be stacked horizontally to store anything from serveware and linens to food and cleaning supplies in a pantry. Learn more about Organized Living home storage solutions here: http://organizedliving.com/home/products/freedomrail/about

Our NYC studio designed this gorgeous condo for a family of four with the goal of maximizing space in a modest amount of square footage. A custom sectional in the living room was created to accommodate the family without feeling overcrowded, while the son's bedroom features a custom Murphy bed to optimize space during the day. To fulfill the daughter's wish for fairy lighting, an entire wall of them was installed behind her bed, casting a beautiful glow at night. In the kitchen, we added plenty of cabinets below the island for maximum efficiency. Storage units were incorporated in the bedroom and living room to house the TV and showcase decorative items. Additionally, the tub in the powder room was removed to create an additional closet for much-needed storage space.

Located in the historic Central Gardens neighborhood in Memphis, the project sought to revive the outdoor space of a 1920’s traditional home with a new pool, screened porch, and garden design. After renovating the 1920’s kitchen, the client sought to improve their outdoor space. The first step was replacing the existing kidney pool with a smaller pool more suited to the charm of the site. With the careful insertion of key elements, the design creates spaces which accommodate, swimming, lounging, entertaining, gardening, cooking and more. “Strong, organized geometry makes all of this work and creates a simple and relaxing environment,” Designer Jeff Edwards explains. “Our detailing takes on updated freshness, so there is a distinction between new and old, but both reside harmoniously.”
The screened porch actually has some modern detailing that compliments the previous kitchen renovation, but the proportions in materiality are very complimentary to the original architecture from the 1920s. The screened porch opens out onto a small outdoor terrace that then flows down into the backyard and overlooks a small pool.

We created this mid-size trendy bathroom by refurbishing existing vanity and fixtures. White subway tiles were wrapped around the bathroom with grey porcelain tiles. The floor tiles bear a resemblance to brush strokes of watercolors, creating a flow in the space. We installed a new soaking bathtub with a frameless barn shower door to add to the unique look. The tile pattern and neutral colors help elongate the space and make it feel bigger. As a part of this renovation, we carved out a small laundry space in the hallway closet. Full size stacked washer and dryer fit perfectly and can be easily enclosed.
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Project designed by Skokie renovation firm, Chi Renovations & Design - general contractors, kitchen and bath remodelers, and design & build company. They serve the Chicago area, and it's surrounding suburbs, with an emphasis on the North Side and North Shore. You'll find their work from the Loop through Lincoln Park, Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, and all the way up to Lake Forest.
For more about Chi Renovation & Design, click here: https://www.chirenovation.com/
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