Author: Revive Design and Renovation

Outdated Remodeling Trends to Skip in Your 2025 Remodel

Planning a whole-home refresh? Or maybe you’re diving headfirst into that long-awaited Brandon kitchen remodel or bathroom renovation? Wherever you’re starting, one thing’s for sure—2025 isn’t the year to drag old design trends into your new space. Because, honestly, some things just didn’t age well.

And if you’re putting your time, energy, and budget into a renovation, you want results that feel fresh, functional, and forward-thinking—not like a Pinterest board from 2013. These are the outdated trends you’ll want to leave behind before the dust starts flying.

1. All-Gray Everything

Gray had a solid run. But a wall-to-wall palette of cold grays now feels more gloomy than glam. In 2025, warmth is back. Not beige-for-the-sake-of-beige, but earthy, textured, layered. Think creamy off-whites, rich browns, terracotta, and muted greens that add dimension without overwhelming. Use gray intentionally—just don’t let it dominate your entire home.

2. Open Shelving (Everywhere)

Yes, open shelving can look stunning. But let’s be real: unless you’re Marie Kondo with a dust rag, it becomes a clutter trap. For most homeowners, open shelving works best in moderation. Here’s where it still makes sense:

• A single section in the kitchen to display curated dishware
• Above a bar area or coffee station
• Flanking a fireplace for décor only

But for everyday kitchen storage? Cabinets win, every time.

Learn More: Full Overlay vs. Standard Overlay Kitchen Cabinets

3. The Single-Purpose Formal Dining Room

If your dining room only gets used three times a year, it’s time to rethink it. In today’s homes, spaces need to earn their square footage. A formal dining room that sits empty 362 days a year is wasted potential. Instead, consider:

• A multi-use space that doubles as a dining area and a workspace
• Built-in storage or a dry bar to make it functional year-round
• A larger open-concept kitchen with an expanded dining nook

Learn More: Can a Remodel Improve My Kitchen’s Functionality?

4. Faux Industrial Overkill

Exposed pipes, Edison bulbs, and black metal everything—that was once edgy, now everywhere. Unless you live in a converted warehouse, it’s easy to overdo the industrial look. In 2025, homeowners are favoring mixed materials, soft contrast, and curated character. A better approach? Try to find a good balance.

• Pair raw materials (like concrete or metal) with warm woods or textured textiles
• Choose lighting with industrial influence, not full-on factory vibes

5. Barn Doors in Every Hallway

Barn doors had their moment—but they’re not always practical. They don’t block sound well. They can feel clunky in tight spaces. And unless your home leans heavily into rustic farmhouse style, they can look out of place. If you’re craving something more unique, try:

• Arched doorways
• Pocket doors
• Fluted or reeded wood paneling for architectural interest

Design for Now—But Build for Later

A smart remodel for your Brandon home balances what’s current with what’s lasting. Skip the trends that scream “last decade” and focus on thoughtful design that enhances how you live. Need help future-proofing your home? Revive Design and Renovation is here to help you make bold, beautiful choices that actually make sense—for 2025 and the future. We’re ready to help you build something you’ll love living in, so call us at (813) 680-4103 to get started!

How Do I Select Quality Countertops?

A kitchen is only as good as its countertops. That statement might be a bit subjective, but there’s no denying the importance of a sturdy (and stunning) workspace! Make your kitchen remodel worthwhile by knowing how to pick quality countertops that look fantastic and are made to last. Go over your best options when you reach out to Revive Design and Renovation for award-winning kitchen remodeling services near you!

Let’s Go Over Your Countertop Basics:

Finding the perfect kitchen countertop starts with you. Ask yourself these questions so you can easily find what you need without wasting any precious time:

What is my ideal budget?

What theme or aesthetic am I going for?

How much effort am I willing to put towards upkeep?

What are my most durable options?

No two homeowners are alike, but there is one thing that people in Florida have in common. Everyone likes a kitchen countertop that lasts.

Here’s the standard for what makes a great kitchen countertop:

• A scratch-resistant surface
• Stain-resistant material
• Immunity to extreme heat
• Extremely attractive

Is there such a thing as a kitchen countertop that’s impervious to scratches, stains, and heat? Actually, there are a few. Granite and quartz are a couple of examples that have never steered anyone wrong. It all comes down to personal preference between natural and engineered stone.

Natural Stone vs. Engineered Stone: The Big Countertop Debate

There’s impeccable beauty in a kitchen that’s all-natural. There’s also much to appreciate in a modern kitchen that utilizes the best of science. That’s the great debate between natural and engineered stone countertops.

Natural stone countertops take real rock in its truest form and cut it down to the perfect size for your kitchen. Take a look at the most popular natural stone countertop options and their benefits:

• Marble is easily the top choice for a luxury kitchen display. It’s elegant without needing any extra help in achieving its good looks, and who wouldn’t want that?
• Granite is revered for its extreme durability and intense resistance to heat. This rock also doesn’t stain too easily with the right coating so you can admire its gorgeous veiny pattern.
• Soapstone takes all the benefits of natural stone for the ultimate countertop in this category. Durability, low maintenance, and heat resistance can all be yours for the taking!

Engineered stone countertops are entirely man-made, designed to be the embodiment of what every homeowner wants in a kitchen surface. There are a couple of go-to options that you can’t find sitting out in the wild:

• Quartz is the best type of engineered stone to use for kitchen countertops, offering remarkable durability in every color and pattern you can imagine.
• Sintered stone is a little bit of everything pressed together. The result is a durable, non-porous surface that looks great pretty much anywhere you put it.

By choosing the right upgrades like low-maintenance countertops, you can improve your kitchen’s functionality which ultimately increases its value! Read more > Can a Remodel Improve My Kitchen’s Functionality?

We Share Our Top Counter-Tips:

• Thoroughly research the kitchen countertop materials you’re most interested in for an informed decision.
• Try out physical samples to see how each type of material feels before you commit.
• Don’t settle for cheaper options that will need to be replaced sooner rather than later.
• Opt for countertop manufacturers that offer great warranties.

Explore Quality Countertops Near You at Revive Design and Renovation!

Your friendly team at Revive Design and Renovation is ready to show you your best kitchen countertop options for your new kitchen remodel. Schedule a consultation with us today to rock your new kitchen with quality countertops that look and feel amazing!

Every Kitchen Style to Consider for Your 2025 Remodel

Planning a Tampa kitchen remodel in 2025? Good news—you’ve got options, and not just the surface-level, Pinterest-trendy kind. We’re talking intentional styles that reflect how you live, what you love, and where you’re headed. Because a Tampa kitchen renovation should be beautiful and make sense for your everyday life. There’s a kitchen style waiting for you—let’s break down five you should absolutely have on your radar this year.

Scandinavian

This one’s for the minimalists who still want warmth. Scandinavian kitchens lean heavily on natural light, soft wood tones, and a muted palette that feels calming but not cold. What sets it apart? Intentional restraint. Here are some signature features:

• Light oak or ash cabinetry
• Flat-panel doors with minimal hardware
• Matte white finishes with pops of muted blues or greens
• Open shelving with curated (not cluttered) display items

It’s modern, but it breathes. And in a bright Tampa home, it practically glows.

Farmhouse

Think of farmhouse style as the warm hug of kitchen design. It’s cozy, inviting, and filled with details that tell a story—without trying too hard. But let’s be clear: Modern farmhouse is not shabby chic. The 2025 version is refined, grounded, and practical.

• Shaker-style cabinets (white, sage green, or navy are go-to’s)
• Butcher block or honed stone countertops
• Apron-front sinks and vintage-inspired faucets
• Industrial pendants or lantern lighting
• Reclaimed wood accents, often on beams or open shelves

If you love to host and gather around a big island—this one’s for you.

Learn More: How to Choose the Perfect Stone Slab for Your Kitchen Island

Contemporary

Contemporary kitchens are what happen when function meets flair. They’re not futuristic—they’re now. And they prioritize materials and shapes that feel fresh without being flashy. In a Tampa kitchen, this style excels at staying cool and clean, even when life gets messy. You can expect to see:

• High-gloss cabinets in bold or neutral tones
• Minimal hardware, often finger pulls or push-to-open
• Waterfall islands with dramatic veining
• Matte black or brushed metal fixtures
• Smart tech—touchless faucets, built-in charging stations, the works

Modern

Often confused with contemporary, modern design draws from midcentury roots—think clean geometry, organic materials, and a serious appreciation for balance. Modern kitchens work best when every element feels purposeful. Key characteristics include:

• Walnut or flat-grain wood cabinetry
• Long horizontal lines (drawer stacks instead of upper cabinets)
• Minimal ornamentation
• Subtle color contrast—white, black, and warm wood dominate
• Large-format tile or slab backsplash

Traditional

Traditional doesn’t mean dated. Done right, it’s elegant, classic, and full of thoughtful details that make your kitchen feel rooted and welcoming. If you love molding, symmetry, and cabinetry that looks like furniture, you’ll love this style that pairs beautifully with older Tampa homes where you want to maintain character while upgrading comfort. Traditional kitchens often feature:

• Raised-panel cabinets in cream, espresso, or deep cherry
• Decorative corbels, legs, and crown molding
• Honed marble or granite countertops
• Soft lighting with warm undertones
• Antique brass or oil-rubbed bronze finishes

Learn More: Historic Home Remodeling: How We Embrace Modernized Heritage

Which One Feels Like You? We’re Here to Help

Don’t just chase what’s “in.” Build a kitchen around what matters most to you—how you live, cook, gather, and unwind. And if you’re not sure where to start? That’s exactly what we’re here for. Let’s create a Tampa kitchen renovation that’s grounded in style, full of personality, and built to last. Reach out to Revive Design and Renovation today at (813) 680-4103 to make it happen.

Painted vs Stained Kitchen Cabinetry – Which Is Best For You?

Are you team paint or team stain? Whether you replace or reface your kitchen cabinetry, choosing the way you breathe life into it through color is critical for a successful remodel. There is no wrong answer. That doesn’t mean there isn’t a better answer. Get to know the differences between stains and paints for kitchen cabinets that work best for your new kitchen remodel by Revive Design and Renovation!

Pick a Color, Any Color With Painted Kitchen Cabinets!

The best thing about paint is that you have every corner of the rainbow at your disposal. Get the exact color you want in the finish you want with professionally painted kitchen cabinets. In the right hands, your cabinets will flaunt your chosen color in the most satisfying and uniform look to match your desired aesthetic.

Painted cabinets are an effective way to tastefully add color in your kitchen remodel whether you’re going for a modern and trendy look or a classic farmhouse feel. Paint fits into every style of home and can last years with a protective coat to seal it all up in a tight bow. When you trust in your local reputable home remodelers, you can expect your painted kitchen cabinets to shine for ages!

The Only Stain You’ll Ever Want In Your Kitchen

Is there anything more natural in the home than authentic wood? When you see those grain lines circling around the occasional knot that gives wood its character, it’s like entering a personal gateway to the forest it originated from. Untreated wood might not give off that desirable feeling, but stains bring out the inner beauty of all wooden cabinets.

Stain is the magical liquid that makes wood look and feel like the glorified version that we see in magazines. It replenishes the surface, giving it a bold richness that looks even more beautiful behind a glossy sheen. Because stain flows deep into the wood’s fibers, you can remain entranced in your glorious kitchen cabinets for years on end.

Still Can’t Decide? Consider This:

Even the most renowned beauties aren’t without their flaws. While both of these options are magnificent choices, it also helps to know the potential challenges so you can plan ahead.

When painting your kitchen cabinets:

• Expect to pay more for premium paint and sealants
• Prepare yourself for having to fix chips more frequently
• Choose a color that is timeless and won’t go out of style

When staining your kitchen cabinets:

• Know that your color options will be limited
• Understand that chipped sealant is harder to fix
• Go with styles that fit like classic or mid-mod

Sorting out the pros and cons between painted and stained cabinetry will reward you with a fabulous kitchen remodel crafted of your own volition!

Painted or Stained, Get the Kitchen Cabinets You Want at Revive Design and Renovation!

Are you more of a visual learner? View our kitchen gallery to see how paint and stains work in different themes and aesthetics to inspire your own kitchen remodel! Reach out to Revive Design and Renovation today for personalized suggestions from our design team.

How Do You Want To Feel At Home? 4 Questions To Ask Yourself Before A Whole-Home Remodel

Getting a whole home remodel without a plan is just asking for disaster. Even if you have an idea of what aesthetic you’re going for or which features you absolutely want, people often forget the most important aspect of a home: Comfort. Comfort is more than just adding some throw pillows to your couch. It’s about how you go about your daily life and how your home makes it all seamless. Ask yourself these questions before starting a whole home remodel with Revive Design and Renovation St. Petersburg:

1. “What Does My Daily Routine Look Like?”

You don’t want to feel like a stranger in your own home, but that’s what’ll happen when you go for a complete remodel that doesn’t align with your daily needs. Homeowners in St. Petersburg often get carried away with what’s new just for the sake of being current or trendy. But that won’t matter when you struggle with your routine because of impractical choices that favor looks over functionality.

Here’s an example:

You’ve always wanted a kitchen island, but your layout doesn’t allow enough space to fit one without it being obtrusive. You decide to get one anyway, but you soon realize that the corner of the island cuts into your kitchen work triangle and disrupts your flow.

For the next few days (or weeks), take note of what you do every single day and how you accomplish your daily tasks so you can structure your remodel around your way of living rather than trying to change your way of living around your new remodel.

2. “What Features Can I Add to Make My Daily Tasks Easier?”

Now you understand that the goal is to make your daily life at home much easier with your whole home remodel in St. Petersburg. This is the first step in choosing upgrades that are sure to enhance your routine, and the difference will be like night and day! If you have a crafting room, consider custom cabinets and LED lighting upgrades so you can store and organize your supplies like a pro with improved visibility. This can reduce clutter and minimize mistakes during your projects. Of course, this is just one example of many.

Do you lead an interesting life with unique hobbies? Then a custom home remodel may be worth it for a home that feels like home.

3. “Does My Current Home Accommodate My Special Needs?”

Some accommodations are more necessities than they are suggestions. If there are handicapped members in the household, you’ll need accessibility features for safety. If illnesses are prevalent in the family, a kosher kitchen can minimize germs to preserve health. Think about circumstances that make certain upgrades non-negotiable in your St. Petersburg whole home remodel for an upgrade that does more than wow you with looks!

Read more > 4 Considerations When Creating a Kosher Kitchen

4. “What Can I Change to Be More Comfortable and Relaxed?”

Your home is your safe space, a wonderful haven where you can kick back, take it all in, and just be yourself. Is there anything about your current home that’s stopping you from reaching your full potential as a cozy homebody? A whole home remodel is the perfect chance to add more comfort to your personal space in St. Petersburg. Do you strain your eyes every time the sunlight brightens your stark white walls? Try warmer tones that aren’t so blinding during the day. Do you always have tiresome feet? Swap out your floors for something softer.

Need inspiration? Check out our top home improvement tips for 2025!

Achieve Ultimate At-Home Comfort With a Whole-Home Remodel From Revive Design and Renovation!

Get personalized design tips when you reach out to our team at Revive Design and Renovation St. Petersburg for whole home remodel services near you! Start with a consultation and see how we can transform your home around you.