Home improvement has changed over the past five years. Shifting homeowner priorities such as technological advancement, eco-friendly choices and multifunctional spaces show the industry is constantly evolving.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or planning a significant renovation, understanding these trends can help you make smarter decisions.
1. Surge in Renovation Spending: Why Homeowners Are Investing More
Irish homeowners have been investing heavily in home improvements, with spending reaching €11 billion in a single year. This rise is usually attributed to a combination of factors — rising property prices, increasing focus on home comfort and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since 2020, remote work has become a longtime feature in many sectors, as well. Homeowners are prioritising office spaces, better insulation, and energy-efficient upgrades to guarantee their homes are comfortable and functional. Upgrades that improve a house’s market value — such as kitchen remodels and electricity-saving improvements — have become increasingly popular.
2. Eco-Friendly Upgrades: The Shift Toward Sustainable Homes
Sustainability is now a feature to consider in home improvement. More property owners are opting for power-efficient upgrades that offer lower emissions and reduce noise pollution while providing long-term savings. Some of these — insulation, solar panels and smart heating systems — are in high demand.
Additionally, construction equipment has evolved in the same direction, with more electric and hybrid machinery options available. This enables remodels to produce fewer emissions and less noisy disruptions for neighbors.
The transition reflects a wider movement towards greener living in Ireland. The government has encouraged homeowners to adopt similar solutions by offering grants and incentives for sustainable home improvements to those seeking them.
3. Smart Tech at Home: Enhancing Efficiency and Security
Technology is one of the biggest home improvement changes of the last few years. Every year, it is more common to find smart thermostats, automated lighting and security systems in residences.
People are also integrating innovative solutions to improve electricity efficiency, convenience, and security through voice-controlled systems and home automation. Features like these allow them to control lighting, temperature, and even appliances through smartphone apps or virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Home.
The rise of remote work has also influenced this trend, with many investing in smart office setups and better home connectivity. This shift towards a connected house has made daily life more convenient and contributed to power savings.
4. DIY Revolution: How Online Resources Are Empowering Homeowners
The DIY trend has skyrocketed, with more people choosing to tackle projects themselves rather than hiring professionals. This shift has been driven by access to online tutorials and a desire to cut costs. Because you’re just paying for the materials, this option is much more affordable.
From renovating entire garages to achieving a completely new-looking kitchen, DIYers are changing the scene of home improvement in Ireland. While DIY enthusiasm is high, some homeowners still prefer hiring professionals for complex renovations like plumbing and electrical work, as these need extensive trade knowledge.
5. Outdoor Spaces: The New Focus for Home Renovations
Spending more time at home has stimulated outdoor renovations. Homeowners are adding decks, outdoor kitchens and waterproof seating areas. Sustainable landscaping with native plants and water-efficient gardening is also gaining popularity.
The demand for home workout areas and pergolas has also increased as homeowners seek to maximise their available space. These structures provide additional usable areas without requiring permitted permission, making them an attractive option for many Irish property owners.
6. Supply Chain Disruption and Material Shortages: Global Events Driving Costs Up
The impact of global events — including Brexit, the pandemic and the war in Ukraine — caused delays and price hikes in materials used for renovation. Residents have had to plan projects further in advance and find alternative suppliers.
Shortages of timber, steel, insulation, and roofing lead to longer wait times and higher expenses. While the situation has improved slightly, industry experts predict high material costs will persist in the near future.
7. Multi-Functional Spaces: Maximising Flexibility in Home Design
Open-plan living, home offices and multi-use spaces have become more common, allowing more flexibility. This trend is particularly evident in urban areas where maximising space is a priority.
With more people working and studying from home, owners are designing rooms to serve multiple purposes. For example, a guest bedroom might double as a home gym, or a dining room might be retrofitted with built-in storage for work-from-home essentials.
Following the Latest in Home Improvement
The home improvement industry in Ireland has changed significantly over the past five years, influenced by sustainability, innovative technology and shifting homeowner needs. Whether considering a small upgrade or a significant renovation, staying informed on these trends can help you make the best choices for your space.
