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July 30, 2025

How to Hire a Professional Remodeler (and Why It Matters)

When it comes to remodeling your home, who you choose to work with matters just as much as what you plan to change. A great remodeler will guide you through a complex process with expertise, transparency, and professionalism. And in a world of DIY shows and social media inspiration, it can be tempting to cut corners or rush the hiring process. But a remodel is a major investment in your home — and your peace of mind depends on getting it right from the start.

So, what does hiring a professional remodeler actually look like?

More blog posts

Color Revival

For years, the formula was simple: whitewalls, gray cabinetry, and just enough contrast to keep things interesting. But after more than a decade of cool tones dominating interior design, homeowners are beginning to crave something different.

Color, after all, is in constant evolution. Trends come and go. Homeowner preferences ebb and flow. What may have been the defining color of one era can quickly be labeled outdated, drab, or overdone in the next.

Take a trip back to the ’50s, when pastel hues adorned everything from bathroom tile to kitchen appliances. Then came the earthy golds and oranges of the ’70s, followed by the jewel tones and dramatic prints of the ’80s and ’90s. Fast-forward to the last decade, when a more pared-back approach to color dominated interiors. But now, color is making a comeback—not as a passing trend but as a reflection of homeowners’ desire for spaces that feel personal and lived in.

Here, designers and color experts weigh in on the shades, palettes, and applications defining today’s homes—and how to balance boldness with timeless appeal.

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Your Guide to Layered Lighting

Fixtures are often the first thing that come to mind when envisioning the lighting in your new build, but a thoughtful lighting plan goes deeper than picking lamps and bulbs. In fact, lighting plays an important role in setting the overall tone of your home. When lighting is too bright, spaces feel harsh and uncomfortable. Dimly lit rooms are no better, often appearing small and uninviting.

Striking that perfect balance of illumination from natural and artificial light is known as layered lighting, an interior design concept that relies on multiple light sources to foster warmth, add visual interest, and make spaces functional for everyday living. As Kyndra Flowers of Robinson Lighting says, “When in doubt, layer your lighting.”

As you start planning your new build, use this as your guide to design an effective, thoughtful lighting plan that makes every space in your home glow.      

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Kitchen Couture

The kitchen has long been considered the heart of the home—the place where people come to eat, connect, and enjoy the everyday moments that make a house feel lived in. Whether hosting a holiday soiree or savoring the quiet ritual of making your morning latte, the kitchen is where routines unfold and memories are made. With that in mind, it’s only natural the kitchen’s design should reflect both how we live and how we want to feel at home.

Fortunately, luxury, comfort, and practicality are no longer mutually exclusive. With the kitchen playing such a central role in daily life, thoughtful, personalized upgrades are sure to be worth the investment to transform it into a true sanctuary. So, if you’re ready to dream up your ideal kitchen, industry experts share fresh, inspiring—and most importantly, achievable—ideas for creating a space as beautiful as it is functional.

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The Evolution of Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology is evolving in new construction. Moving beyond standalone gadgets like smart speakers or video doorbells, homeowners are shifting their attention to more meaningful, lifestyle-focused systems that are integrated across the entire home. Fortunately, these technologies are becoming increasingly affordable and accessible. Read onto learn experts’ best practices for installing these smart devices and how they’re benefitting Twin Cities homeowners.

2026 Spring Parade of Homes | In the News

The 2026 Spring Parade of Homes is your chance to see the latest in new home construction from builders across the Twin Cities Metro and Rochester. Here's a roundup of all the press coverage highlighting this year's Spring Parade of Homes.

2025 Fall Parade of Homes | In the News

The 2025 Fall Parade of Homes Twin Cities is your chance to see the latest in new home construction from builders across Minnesota. Here’s a roundup of all the press coverage highlighting this year’s Fall Parade of Homes.

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From Inspiration to Reality: Using a HELOC To Fund Your Favorite Features From the Parade of Homes

This is a sponsored message by Magnifi Financial

When you wander through the Parade of Homes, it is easy to feel like you've stepped into a home-design fairytale. One minute, you're admiring a dreamy chef’s kitchen with a dazzling island, and the next you're captivated by a wall of windows that floods a living room with sunshine. These environments do more than showcase beautiful design. They spark ideas and stir your imagination. But once the tour ends and you’re back home, those “I wish I could have that” moments can feel out of reach. That's where a Home Equity Line of Credit, or HELOC, can help. Think of it as a flexible financing tool that's tied to your home’s value. It's ready to support the projects you care about most, without the stress of high-interest credit cards.

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July 28, 2024

Your Guide to Edina, MN

Welcome to Edina, Minnesota. Located just southwest of Minneapolis, Edina is known for its charming neighborhoods, top-notch schools, and bustling local business scene. Whether you’re a visitor seeking adventure or a potential new resident looking for the perfect community, Edina has something special for everyone.

Keep reading to discover the hidden gems and local favorites that make Edina a true Twin Cities treasure!

Community Guide
July 8, 2024

Local Home & Design Events | July 2024

Calling all Parade of Homes fans! If you’re looking for something to do this month, check out these local home and design events near you.

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Events
June 28, 2024

Getting Ready to Buy? When the Time Is Right, Here’s How to Make Sure You’re Prepared.

Buying a home is a big milestone — one that’s both exciting and a little bit daunting. Whether you’re settling down in the Twin Cities or eyeing a suburban location in Minnesota, careful planning and consideration are essential. To ensure you’re ready when the time comes, here are some practical tips for navigating the homebuying process.

Home Tips & Tricks
June 26, 2024

Your Guide to Wayzata, MN

Located just 12 miles from Minneapolis and nestled along the northern shore of Lake Minnetonka, Wayzata, Minnesota offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, small-town charm, and vibrant community life. Whether you’re looking to move or just explore, Wayzata’s unique charm and dynamic community spirit will make you feel right at home.

Keep reading to discover the best of what Wayzata has to offer!

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Community Guide
June 7, 2024

Community Comforts: Top Amenities to Look for in New Construction Homes in Minnesota

When it comes to finding your dream home, it’s not just about the structure itself but also about the community surrounding it. New construction neighborhoods in Minnesota offer an array of amenities designed to elevate your living experience. From community clubhouses to social events, here are some top amenities to consider when buying or building a new construction home in Minnesota.

Home Tips & Tricks
June 6, 2024

Your Guide to Lake Elmo, MN

Located just east of the Twin Cities, Lake Elmo offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences. With its picturesque landscapes, vibrant local culture, and welcoming community, Lake Elmo is an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil yet dynamic place to live or visit. Whether you’re considering a move or looking for a new city to explore, Lake Elmo has something for everyone.

Discover some of the hidden gems this delightful community has to offer below!

Community Guide
June 4, 2024

Local Home & Design Events | June 2024

Calling all Parade of Homes fans! If you’re looking for something to do this month, check out these local home and design events near you.

Events
May 9, 2024

Vibrant Remodels Harness the Power of Color

Today, we’re diving into the heart of the home: the kitchen. On the Spring Remodelers Showcase, homeowners were embracing color to infuse personality and style into their culinary spaces. Take a closer look at some inspiring kitchen remodels that beautifully incorporate color.

Design
Home Tours
May 2, 2024

Elevated Outdoor Living: How to Add Ambiance to Your Backyard

As the warmth of summer approaches, Minnesotans eagerly anticipate spending more time outdoors. For many, the allure of the great outdoors extends far beyond its natural beauty; it’s a space where memories are made and laughter echoes.

Design
May 1, 2024

Local Home & Design Events | May 2024

Calling all Parade of Homes fans! If you’re looking for something to do this month, check out these local home and design events near you.

Events
April 26, 2024

Reggie Awards Given to 24 Spring Parade Homes

Since 1968, Housing First Minnesota has presented the Reggie Award℠, which recognizes excellence in design and construction of homes in the Parade of Homes. The Trillium Awards honor the associates and trade partners for their collaboration with these award-winning builders.

Builders & Remodelers
April 17, 2024

Utilizing Hidden Storage Space to Keep Your Home Clutter-Free

The secret to maintaining a clutter-free home is two-fold: staying on top of organization and maximizing efficient storage. Your home is filled with hidden storage space where you least expect it. Discover the prime places you’re overlooking and use these clever tips to keep your home clean, organized, and functional.

Home Tips & Tricks
April 12, 2024

Turning Your Pinterest Board into Reality: Expert Interior Design Tips

We’ve all been there — scrolling on Pinterest or Instagram and finding yet another dreamy home photo to save for later. Once you’re finally ready to tackle that room makeover or big renovation in your own home, you browse the inspiration images you’ve collected and find yourself overwhelmed. You’re not sure where to start, what style to choose, or how to recreate a picture-perfect design on your own. Here’s the general outline professional design teams in Minnesota find themselves following when working with new clients.

Design