When you’re planning a
home renovation, making the right material choices is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a homeowner – and it’s not all about picking a pretty color scheme or style. No – what really matters are coming up with materials that will stand the test of time, without breaking the bank on future maintenance.
At Remodel with ICON, we’ve seen it all – from kitchens and bathrooms to exterior renovations. And let us tell you: selecting the right materials is where the real magic happens. It’s all about finding a balance between style and substance.
Start with Your Life
Before you even think about the finishes, take a step back and think about how you actually use your home. That gorgeous new kitchen might look stunning in a showroom, but what happens when the kids start getting messy and you’re scrubbing away at spill after spill?
For example:
- Families with kids or pets might benefit from scratch-resistant flooring and stain-resistant surfaces to keep their home looking its best.
- Frequent cooks need to consider heat-resistant countertops and durable cabinetry finishes that can handle a little wear and tear.
- And outdoor-facing spaces? They need to be able to withstand all the madness that comes with Chicago’s changing seasons – from humidity to snow to blistering heat.
It’s all about finding materials that fit your lifestyle – not just your design tastes.
Kitchen Materials: Style That Stands Up to Everyday Use
The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in the house – and that means material durability is key.
Countertops
Quartz is a top pick among modern kitchen lovers, for good reason – it’s tough, non-porous and pretty much stain-proof. Natural stone like granite or marble looks fabulous, but it’s going to need a little more TLC to keep it looking its best.
Cabinets
Quality cabinetry is what takes a kitchen from bland to grand – and it’s also what’s going to stand the test of time. Look for solid wood, plywood construction and some serious quality finishes to ensure they last.
Flooring
Kitchen floors need to be tough, stylish – and preferably able to withstand the odd spill or two. Our top picks include:
- Porcelain tile – it’s water-resistant and built to last
- Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) – for a comfy and scratch-resistant finish
- Hardwood flooring – because it just looks and feels like home
Choosing materials that are up to the task of everyday life will mean your kitchen stays looking stunning, year after year.
Bathroom Materials: Where Moisture Meets Maintenance
Bathrooms are a whole different ball game – the combination of constant humidity and water exposure means you need to choose materials that are up to the task of keeping things looking – and functioning – their best.
Tile and Shower Surfaces
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are always a popular choice – they’re tough, durable and easy to clean. And large-format tiles? They create a sleek, modern look that’s low-maintenance to boot.
Countertops and Vanities
Quartz countertops are a top pick for bathrooms because they resist stains and moisture so well. Make sure you pair them with a well-put-together vanity and you’ve got yourself a space that’s functional, attractive and built to last.
Flooring
Slip-resistant tile is a must-have in any bathroom, to keep you – and your loved ones – safe from slips and falls. Some homeowners also opt for heated flooring, which not only feels fantastic on chilly mornings but also helps the floor dry more quickly.
When you choose bathroom materials with care, you can have it all – style, substance and a space that’s built to last.
Exterior Materials: Chicago’s Climate, Tamed
Exterior renovations need materials that can withstand all the elements – and Chicago’s weather can be a doozy.
Siding
Fiber cement siding is the way to go, offering top-notch protection against moisture, pests and weather damage while still looking like traditional wood siding.
Roofing
Go for high-quality asphalt shingles, metal roofing or composite materials, and you’ll have a roof that’s going to last for years to come.
Decking and Outdoor Materials
Composite decking has come a long way – it’s durable, low-maintenance and just looks fabulous. Unlike traditional wood, it won’t warp, splinter or fade over time, so you can enjoy your outdoor space without the hassle.
When you choose exterior materials that are up to the task of the elements, you can enjoy your home – and your outdoor space – for years to come.
Maintenance: Think Long-Term
Another thing to consider when choosing your materials is just how much TLC they’re going to need over the years. Some materials might look stunning initially but then require a lot of maintenance to keep them looking their best.
For example:
- Natural stone might need the occasional seal
- Hardwood floors need refinishing every now and then
- Composite materials usually require zero maintenance – a definite bonus
The more you know about what’s going to need doing, the better equipped you’ll be to make choices that fit your lifestyle and schedule.
The Balance of Design and Durability
The best remodels are all about finding that perfect balance between style and substance. Rather than choosing materials just because they look good, try to think about how they fit with the overall design of your home.
Key design considerations include:
- Co-coordinating finishes across multiple rooms
- Mixing textures like stone, wood and metal
- Choosing colors and materials that flow together
- Selecting timeless styles that stand the test of time
When you strike this balance, you get a space that feels intentional, sophisticated and built to last.
Home Renovation Guides
At Remodel with ICON, we’re here to help guide homeowners every step of the way through the whole material selection process. Choosing finishes can be a real challenge – with all the different options out there it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed.
Our process works like this
- Getting to know your needs & lifestyle
- Picking materials that fit what you’re looking for – both style & durability
- Helping you weigh up all the different options based on how well they’ll hold up & how much maintenance they need
- Making sure everything gets installed to a high standard so your new space lasts
By bringing together a deep understanding of good design with top-notch building skills, we help homeowners feel confident in the choices they make for their home – and make sure their new space looks & feels great for years to come.
Building A Home Renovation that Stands the Test of Time
A good renovation isn’t just about whipping up a beautiful space – it’s about building something that’ll still be going strong years down the line. When it comes to choosing materials – the key to success is finding a good balance between style, durability and maintenance. That way you end up with a space that looks great, works great, and stays that way.
Whether you’re giving your kitchen a makeover, overhauling your bathroom, or just wanting to make a bit of an impact on the outside of your home – the choice of materials is a key part of the outcome.
At
Remodel with ICON, we’re dedicated to helping Chicago homeowners create spaces that marry up style with lasting quality.
