Top Remodeling Ideas to Make Your Wisconsin Home Cozier This Fall

Renz Construction on October 15, 2025

Home Cozier

Fall in Wisconsin isn’t just about pumpkin spice and football; it’s also the perfect time to think about how your home feels. As the days get shorter and colder, families naturally spend more time indoors. That makes autumn the ideal season to invest in remodeling projects that add comfort, warmth, and functionality. Whether it’s a fireplace upgrade or a full basement remodel, Renz Construction can help you create a home that’s both cozy and practical for long winter comfort.

Upgrade Your Fireplace or Add One

Few things say “fall” like a crackling fire. If you already have a fireplace, consider upgrading it with a modern stone surround or efficient insert. Don’t have one? This is the perfect season to add one to your living room or basement.

Benefits of a fireplace remodel:

  • Creates a warm gathering space for family and guests
  • Adds value and charm to your home
  • Improves efficiency with modern inserts

Finish or Remodel Your Basement

With football season in full swing, a finished basement is the ultimate game-day headquarters. Think home theater, bar, or a playroom for the kids. Renz Construction has helped Wisconsin homeowners transform unused basements into warm, functional spaces that make those long winter nights a lot more enjoyable.

But finishing a basement isn’t just about entertainment, it’s also one of the smartest ways to add usable square footage to your home without building an addition. Instead of letting valuable space sit empty, you can design it to meet your family’s exact needs. Whether you want a quiet home office, a guest suite for visiting relatives, or a personal gym, a remodeled basement makes your home feel bigger, more comfortable, and more personalized.

Basement remodeling ideas:

  • Entertainment space with large TV or projector
  • Wet bar for hosting parties
  • Kids’ playroom or teen hangout
  • Guest bedroom or in-law suite
  • Home office or workout room for year-round use

Refresh the Kitchen Before the Holidays

The holidays are just around the corner, which means big meals and family gatherings. Fall is the best time to upgrade your kitchen so it’s ready for entertaining.

Simple kitchen upgrades include:

  • New countertops or backsplash
  • Expanding the island for more prep space
  • Updated lighting fixtures
  • Improved layout for better flow

Add a Mudroom for Wisconsin Winters

Anyone who’s lived through a Wisconsin winter knows the struggle: wet boots, heavy coats, and snow tracked through the house. A mudroom is one of those features you don’t realize you need until you have it, and then you wonder how you ever lived without it. By dedicating space to store and organize all that seasonal gear, you can keep the rest of your home cleaner and more functional.

A well-designed mudroom doesn’t just serve a practical purpose; it can also add charm and character to your home. Built-in cubbies, stylish storage benches, and durable flooring make the space both beautiful and functional. Plus, when it comes time to sell, buyers in Wisconsin know the value of a home designed with our climate in mind.

A mudroom remodel can give you:

  • Built-in storage for coats, boots, and bags
  • Durable, easy-to-clean flooring
  • Bench seating for convenience
  • Better organization for busy households
  • Increased resale value thanks to smart design

Install Energy-Efficient Windows & Doors

Fall is the last chance to seal up drafts before winter arrives. Learn more about checking window efficiency from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Why upgrade windows and doors now?

  • Keeps your home warmer and more comfortable
  • Lowers heating bills in winter
  • Increases overall energy efficiency
  • Improves curb appeal

Conclusion

Fall is the season of change. Why not make it a season of comfort in your own Waukesha County, Wisconsin home? Whether you’re dreaming of a fireplace, new kitchen, new basement, or mudroom, Renz Construction is here to make it happen. Contact Renz Construction today to start your remodeling project.

5 Common Kitchen Remodel Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Renz Construction on August 12, 2025

Common Kitchen Remodel

Remodeling your kitchen is exciting. New cabinets, shiny appliances, a fresh layout; it’s like getting the dream kitchen you’ve been seeing on makeover shows for years. But here’s the thing: a kitchen remodel is also a big investment, and even small mistakes can cost you time, money, and sanity.

At Renz Construction, we’ve seen it all — the good, the bad, and the “why didn’t they call us first?” So, let’s walk through the 5 most common kitchen remodel mistakes and, most importantly, how to avoid them.

1. Not Planning for the Long Game

It’s tempting to design your kitchen entirely around the latest trends, we’ve all been there, endlessly scrolling magazine spreads and Instagram feeds. But what’s “in” today could feel outdated in just a few years. If you plan to stay in your home long-term, you need a kitchen that grows with your needs. Will you still love that bold backsplash in ten years? Will your cabinet style hold up when your tastes change?

Avoid it: Think about your lifestyle first, then the design. Do you cook daily or only on weekends? Do you host large family gatherings or need space for the kids’ homework? Choose a timeless color palette, durable materials, and layouts that adapt to your life. You can always add personality with decor that’s easy to swap out later.

2. Skimping on Storage

Sure, minimalism looks amazing in a showroom, but in real life, it can turn into countertop chaos fast. If you don’t plan enough storage, you’ll constantly be battling clutter, and that clean look won’t last past the first grocery run. Lack of storage is one of the biggest regrets homeowners share after a remodel.

Avoid it: Plan for more storage than you think you’ll need. Consider deep drawers for pots and pans, pull-out shelves for easy access, built-in spice racks, and a pantry that fits your cooking style. Even small details like vertical dividers for baking sheets can make your kitchen run smoother. The right storage means you can keep the beauty of your kitchen visible without sacrificing practicality.

3. Poor Lighting Choices

Lighting isn’t just about making your kitchen look nice; it’s about making it functional and safe. Too often, homeowners rely solely on a central ceiling fixture, which leaves shadows in work areas and makes the room feel flat. The right lighting design can transform your kitchen from mediocre to magazine-worthy.


Avoid it: 

Use a layered lighting approach:

  • Ambient lighting for overall brightness (recessed lights or overhead fixtures).
  • Task lighting under cabinets or over the island for chopping, reading recipes, and cooking.
  • Accent lighting to highlight your backsplash, toe kicks, open shelving, or architectural features. We can’t get enough of this!

Dimmer switches are a game-changer too, bright for cooking, soft for entertaining.

4. Ignoring Workflow

The kitchen is the busiest room in most homes, and poor layout planning can make it frustrating instead of functional. If your stove, sink, and refrigerator, the work triangle, are too far apart or awkwardly placed, you’ll end up zig-zagging just to make dinner. This mistake is especially common when homeowners prioritize style over function.


Avoid it: Keep your work triangle custom but comfortable; typically, each leg should be between 4 and 9 feet. Also, think about traffic flow: if more than one person cooks, make sure there’s space to move without bumping elbows. Avoid placing major appliances directly opposite each other, and consider where guests will gather so they’re not in your way while you cook.

5. Choosing the Wrong Contractor

Even the most beautiful design can fall apart if the execution isn’t there. Hiring the wrong contractor can lead to delays, budget overruns, and shoddy craftsmanship you’ll be stuck with for years. Sometimes people choose the cheapest bid only to pay more later to fix mistakes.


Avoid it: Do your homework. Read reviews, ask for references, and look at past projects. Make sure the contractor communicates clearly, understands your vision, and is transparent about timelines and costs. The right contractor will guide you through the process, troubleshoot problems, and deliver the quality your home deserves, like the experienced team at Renz Construction.

The Bottom Line

Your kitchen is the heart of your home. Avoiding these common mistakes means you’ll end up with a space that’s not only beautiful but also functional and lasting. And when you’re ready to bring your dream kitchen to life in Lake Country, WI, we’re here to make it happen.

Take a peek at some of our recent custom kitchen remodels:

Contact us and step closer to your custom kitchen remodel today.

Kitchen Remodels That Wow: Before & After Transformations

Renz Construction on July 30, 2025

Kitchens are the heart of the home, but sometimes, they need a serious makeover to match your lifestyle and taste. At Renz Construction, we’ve seen it all — outdated oak cabinets, dim lighting, odd layouts, and design choices that scream 1999. Lucky for our clients, a kitchen remodel doesn’t just improve aesthetics; it transforms the entire home’s feel and function.

So grab your coffee (or wine!) and check out some of our favorite before-and-after kitchen remodels that wowed our clients and added value to their homes.

Before & After #1: From Cramped and Clunky to Bright and Airy

kitchen remodel

Before:

This kitchen felt boxed in by partial walls, outdated cabinetry, and a cramped layout. While functional, it didn’t match the home’s serene vibe or the homeowners’ desire for a more open-concept flow.

After:

The dividing wall was removed to expand the space into a bright, luxurious kitchen retreat. The updated design includes custom cabinetry, a massive island with seating for four, and wood ceiling beams that add warmth and texture. Light hardwood flooring and oversized windows bring in natural light, creating a truly inviting atmosphere.

Key Renovations:

  • Open-concept layout for better flow
  • Large island with ample seating
  • Under-cabinet and toe-kick lighting
  • Elegant finishes with neutral tones and texture
  • Custom cabinetry and high-end appliances with integrated appliance panels

This remodel proves that a thoughtful layout change paired with modern craftsmanship can completely redefine how a kitchen feels and functions.

Before & After #2: From Mismatched to Rustic Masterpiece in Oconomowoc

Luxury Kitchen Remodel

Before:

This kitchen had bold color choices, outdated laminate counters, and mismatched cabinetry that made the space feel chaotic and closed in. It lacked both style and warmth, and didn’t reflect the homeowners’ vision for a cozy, cohesive space.

After:

This kitchen was brought to life with rustic hickory cabinetry, modern matte black fixtures, and a high-contrast granite countertop. The new layout maximizes function and flow, while the natural wood tones add an inviting, lodge-style vibe that fits the home perfectly.

Key renovations:

  • Rustic hickory cabinets for warmth and character
  • Upgraded appliances and efficient layout
  • Luxury quartz countertops and intentional lighting for flair
  • Matte black hardware for a sleek, modern touch
  • Under-cabinet and toe-kick lighting

This project is a great example of how we can transform even the most dated kitchens into functional, stylish spaces that feel like home.

Before & After #3: From Dark & Dated to Light & Custom on Lake Beulah

Premium Kitchen Remodel

Before:

This kitchen had a heavy, dark design with rich wood cabinetry and a traditional layout that limited the room’s flow and brightness. The dining space lacked cohesion, and the aesthetic didn’t match the lake home’s serene and elevated vibe.

After:

We delivered a complete luxury transformation. The space was reimagined with light oak flooring, custom floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, and a seamless quartz waterfall island. The nook, with a soft corner bench, adds charm and function, while high-end lighting and hidden appliance panels elevate the modern elegance.

Key renovations:

  • Light, natural tones for an open and calming feel
  • Custom cabinetry to the ceiling for sleek storage
  • Integrated appliance panels
  • Additional nook-style table setting with bench seating
  • Quartz waterfall island and warm under-cabinet and toe-kick lighting

This remodel is the perfect balance of minimalism and comfort, proof that even a bold transformation can feel timeless and welcoming when executed by the right team.

Why Invest in a Kitchen Remodel?

A kitchen remodel is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home. Here’s why:

  • Increased home value – It’s a top return-on-investment project for a reason.
  • Improved functionality – Say goodbye to awkward layouts and wasted space.
  • Personalized design – Make it your dream kitchen, not a generic copy-paste.
  • Better energy efficiency – Upgrade to appliances and lighting that save money.

So, what are you waiting for?

Reach out and step closer to your dream kitchen today! Whether it includes a farmhouse sink, marble counters, or a hidden coffee station, our team at Renz Construction can bring your custom kitchen to life. We handle every step, from design to demo to the final reveal, and deliver you a one-of-a-kind space that’s uniquely you.