Summer is in full swing, and there’s no better time to enjoy everything Minnesota has to offer! From lake days and backyard barbecues to evenings spent on the patio, we hope you’re making the most of these long, sunny days with family and friends.
Summer is also a great season to think about how your home supports the way you live. Whether you’re dreaming about creating more space for entertaining, improving functionality, or updating a room you’ve been wanting to refresh, now is the perfect time to start planning. If a home project is on your wish list, we’d love to help bring your vision to life.
In this issue, we’re sharing tips on where to splurge and where to save when building or remodeling a home. As always, you’ll find plenty of design inspiration, along with photos from a recent carriage house project we completed for one of our wonderful clients. We hope you enjoy this edition, and we wish you a fantastic summer!
~Mike, Mark & the entire Laurel Builders Team
Where to Splurge and Where to Save When Building or Remodeling a Home
Every building or remodeling project comes with a budget, and one of the smartest things homeowners can do is know where to invest and where to cut costs without sacrificing quality.
Here are some tips to think about when planning a new build or remodel>>
Project Inspiration: A Custom Carriage House Designed for Today
We’re excited to share photos from one of our recent projects—a custom-built carriage house that perfectly blends timeless character with modern functionality. Designed to complement the existing property while providing valuable additional space, this structure offers both beauty and versatility.
From thoughtful architectural details to quality craftsmanship throughout, every aspect of this carriage house was carefully planned to meet our clients’ needs while enhancing the overall appeal of their property. Whether used for vehicle storage, hobbies, entertaining, guest accommodations, or simply extra room to spread out, a well-designed carriage house can add tremendous value and flexibility to a home.
Take a look at some of our favorite photos from this project and see how thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship came together to create a space our clients will enjoy for years to come.
Focus on Design: Top Home Design Trends We're Seeing in 2026
Home design continues to evolve, but one thing remains constant: homeowners want spaces that are beautiful, comfortable, and tailored to the way they live. As we move through 2026, we’re seeing a shift away from short-lived trends and toward thoughtful, timeless design choices that combine style with functionality. Here are some of the most popular design elements showing up in new homes and remodeling projects today:
Warm, Natural Materials
The all-white, ultra-modern look is giving way to warmer, more inviting spaces. Natural wood tones, textured stone, and organic materials are being incorporated throughout the home to create a sense of comfort and connection to nature. White oak cabinetry, wood ceiling details, natural stone countertops, and handmade tile are among the most requested features.
Bold Personality Driven Kitchens
While kitchens remain the heart of the home, they’re becoming more expressive than ever. Homeowners are embracing rich cabinet colors such as deep greens, navy blues, and warm earth tones. Statement range hoods, mixed metal finishes, and unique lighting fixtures are helping kitchens feel more customized and less “cookie-cutter.”
Spa Inspired Bathrooms
Bathrooms are increasingly designed as personal retreats. Large walk-in showers, soaking tubs, heated floors, and layered lighting are creating spaces that feel more like luxury spas than traditional bathrooms. Natural materials and calming color palettes further enhance the relaxing atmosphere.
Dedicated Functional Spaces
The demand for flexible living spaces continues to grow. Homeowners are investing in home offices, exercise rooms, craft spaces, and multi-purpose bonus rooms that adapt to changing needs. Mudrooms, built-in storage solutions, and organized drop zones remain especially popular for busy families.
Indoor/Outdoor Living
Minnesota homeowners continue to prioritize outdoor living spaces that extend the functionality of their homes. Covered patios, screened porches, outdoor kitchens, and comfortable gathering areas help families enjoy more time outside while adding value and versatility to the home.
Curves & Softer Lines
After years of sharp angles and straight edges dominating interiors, designers are incorporating more curves into homes. Arched doorways, rounded furniture, curved kitchen islands, and softer architectural details create a welcoming and sophisticated feel.
Timeless Over Trendy
Perhaps the biggest trend of all is a move toward timeless design. Homeowners are increasingly choosing quality materials, classic architectural details, and personalized finishes that will look beautiful for years to come rather than chasing the latest fad.
At the end of the day, the best home design is one that reflects your lifestyle and supports the way you live. Whether you’re planning a new build or considering a remodel, thoughtful design choices can help create a home that feels both current and enduring for years to come.
In Our Next Issue...
Our next quarterly newsletter will include the Top 5 Features Homeowner’s Regret Not Adding During Construction along with more design features and photos from our most recent projects.
