Category: Interior Design

Open Floor Plan vs Defined Spaces For Your Remodel

Before you start tearing down your walls to keep up with the latest craze, you should learn more about what creating an open floor plan entails so you can make your own decision. We love open floor plans, don’t get us wrong. But there’s also beauty in defined spaces that deserve to be appreciated. This comprehensive guide breaks down the differences and how to choose the right style for your remodel.

Whether you decide on going with an open floor plan or keeping your defined spaces, reach out to Revive Design and Renovation to schedule a consultation for your next home remodel!

First Things First. Know the Difference:

An open floor plan is a space that has been opened up to blur the line between neighboring rooms. On the other hand, defined spaces are rooms that are segmented by defining walls and structures.

Let’s review a couple of examples:

An open-concept kitchen will have zero walls separating the dining room and/or living room. You will be able to see the television in the living room from the stove and everything in between. In a traditional kitchen with a defined space, you will only be able to see what is in your kitchen with the dining and living areas being completely out of sight behind walls.

The Irresistible Allure of Modern Open Concept Design

Open floor plans are great for hosting around the kitchen/living area with plenty of room to breathe and talk and be merry. Your guest could make their way over to the fridge to grab a drink and still keep tabs on the score for the big game so they don’t miss a cheer-worthy moment. There’s also more room for decorations during birthdays and other grand celebrations.

In the bathroom, an open-concept wet room creates a more luxurious experience. There are more opportunities for aesthetics and functionality, like extra room for extravagant tile patterns and a seamless layout for an easy-to-clean space.

Read more > 5 Popular Wet Room Ideas For the Bath Lover: Our Top Picks

Open Floor Plan Cons

The neat thing about open floor plans is that they make the home look bigger and it promotes a social playground without any hindrances. The only downside is that your space loses any sense of privacy in the process. Without defining walls, every area is laid bare no matter where you stand.

The Cozy Charm of Traditional Home Spaces

Most homes that were created over a decade ago were designed with defined spaces because that’s the classic layout. The original blueprint, if you will. However, this isn’t to say that defined spaces are outdated in the least bit.

Larger households need the security and privacy of defined spaces, keeping every room segmented so that each person can find their peace. Imagine trying to immerse yourself in a new TV show with the clashing and clanging of pots and pans not too far behind you. It’s even worse when the living room is the only room in the house with a decent television.

Defined spaces do more than add privacy. The more rooms a house has, the more important it is to keep each room’s purpose separate from one another. For instance, it can be difficult to concentrate in a home office if someone is using loud equipment in the at-home gym right next to you.

Still Can’t Decide? Let Revive Design and Renovation Show You the Possibilities For Your Remodel!

During a consultation with Revive Design and Renovation, we will go in-depth about your preferences and goals to find the right layout for your remodel. Trust us to present you with your best options for a truly remarkable space!

Is A Whole-Home Remodel Easier Than New Construction? 4 Signs It’s Right For You

Looking to completely revamp your house? You can either start from square one, or you can change and alter your existing home. If you’re wondering what would be easier, it’s a good thing you stumbled upon this guide! We’re about to go over the main signs that a whole home remodel would be the better option for you. For an expert’s opinion, reach out to Revive Design and Renovation Tampa today for a consultation!

Whole-Home Remodel vs. New Construction: An Overview

In case you’re wondering, no, a whole home remodel is not the same thing as new construction. A whole home remodel implies that an existing house is entirely remodeled from end to end, whereas new construction is making a house entirely from scratch. But if you want to change every aspect of your house, wouldn’t it be better to start over on a blank slate?

There are plenty of reasons why a whole home remodel would be easier for your Tampa home, even if you want to change literally everything about it:

1. You Want to Keep Your Home’s Structural Layout

Don’t fix what isn’t broken. If you already like the arrangement of your rooms, there’s no sense in tearing it down just to build it exactly how it was. As long as you like the size and layout of your Tampa home, everything inside can be completely redone through a whole home remodel. You could even tear down walls between rooms to create more space if you want. Behind every home’s exterior, pretty much anything goes!

Read more > 2025 Top Home Improvement Tips For The New Year

2. You Don’t Want to Deal With Prolonged Inconveniences

New construction takes so much longer than a whole home remodel. You would have to wait for your contractors to build the foundation, set up the beams, attach the roof, and fill in the rest. When you already have a finished home to work with, you’re cutting out all of that extra time. In many cases, you can even continue to stay in your house during a remodel so you don’t have to arrange for lodging. Talk about convenience!

When you trust Revive Design and Renovation for your whole home remodel in Tampa, we make sure you’re prepared for everything so you can make the necessary arrangements. Read more about how we ensure our client’s satisfaction and safety before reaching out today.

3. You Want to Stay at a Lower Budget

Because there are fewer materials to work with and hours of labor involved, by comparison, whole home remodels tend to cost much less than new construction. This can make things easier on your wallet, not to mention your bank account! Ask your reputable home designer for cost-effective options to use in your remodel. Skilled remodeling experts in Tampa can work around your budget and even present some great financing options that work for you.

4. You Don’t Want to Lose Your Home’s Charm

There’s something about older homes in Tampa that makes you feel kind of warm and fuzzy inside. That can be lost on new construction where your only option is to go with a modern look and feel. Even if you choose a classic theme for your new home, it will still have that “new house smell” about it. Meanwhile, you can always make an older home appear more modern while still carrying the charm of a lived-in house.

Revive Design and Renovation Tampa Specializes In Unbelievable Whole-Home Transformations!

Ready to give your house a complete makeover? Call Revive Design and Renovation Tampa today to schedule a consultation for your whole home remodel! Let’s get started on the possibilities for a new home that you’ll absolutely love.

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.