Before You Renovate: What Works Best in North Idaho Homes

theidahoanllc
Sep 18
3 min read

Thinking about remodeling your home in Coeur d’Alene or North Idaho? Renovations are an exciting way to update your space, increase property value, and create a home that truly fits your lifestyle. But before you start picking paint colors or ordering new cabinets, it’s important to know what works best in Northern Idaho homes.

Every region has its own design preferences, architectural styles, and practical needs—and North Idaho is no exception. Here’s what you should consider before diving into your next renovation project.

1. Prioritize Energy Efficiency

With cold winters and warm summers in Coeur d’Alene, energy-efficient upgrades are some of the smartest renovations you can make. Not only will they keep your home comfortable year-round, but they’ll also lower utility costs and increase resale value.

Top energy-efficient renovations in Northern Idaho include:

Upgrading windows to double-pane or triple-pane.
Adding insulation in walls, attics, and basements.
Installing high-efficiency HVAC systems.
Choosing Energy Star appliances for kitchens and laundry rooms.

2. Design for Four Seasons of Living

One of the best parts of living in Coeur d’Alene is enjoying the outdoors—whether it’s summer on the lake, fall hikes, or snowy winters. Renovations that embrace four-season living are popular and practical.

Consider:

Covered decks and patios for year-round use.
Mudrooms or entryways with storage for boots, coats, and gear.
Heated flooring in bathrooms and basements for cozy winters.
Expansive windows that capture lake, mountain, or forest views.

3. Kitchens That Balance Function and Style

In North Idaho, the kitchen is the heart of the home—perfect for hosting family, entertaining friends, or cooking hearty meals after a day outdoors. Renovations that focus on durability, storage, and timeless style perform best here.

Popular kitchen remodel trends in Coeur d’Alene include:

Quartz countertops (stylish and low-maintenance).
Custom cabinetry for maximum storage.
Open layouts that connect kitchens to living and dining spaces.
Large islands for both prep space and gathering.

4. Rustic Meets Modern Design

Northern Idaho homes often blend rustic charm with modern finishes. Whether you’re updating a lake cabin, a downtown CDA bungalow, or a mountain retreat, renovations that respect this balance tend to have lasting appeal.

Elements that work beautifully in North Idaho homes:

Exposed wood beams or natural stone accents.
Neutral palettes paired with warm, earthy tones.
Modern fixtures and lighting that complement rustic textures.
Durable flooring like wide-plank hardwood or luxury vinyl.

5. Outdoor Living Spaces

Since Coeur d’Alene is all about lifestyle, outdoor spaces are one of the best investments you can make. Homeowners are increasingly creating outdoor areas that function like extensions of the home.

Ideas to consider:

Decks or patios with built-in seating.
Outdoor kitchens and fire pits.
Covered pergolas or screened porches.
Landscaping that frames natural views and seasons well.

6. Smart Layouts for Growing Families and Remote Work

With many families moving to Coeur d’Alene for its quality of life, and more people working from home, renovations that enhance flexibility and functionality are in demand.

Examples include:

Adding home offices or flex rooms.
Finishing basements for extra living space.
Creating multi-use spaces like lofts or bonus rooms.
Open-concept layouts balanced with private retreat areas.

Final Thoughts

Before you renovate your North Idaho home, take time to think about what will truly add value—not just financially, but also in your day-to-day life. From energy efficiency and four-season functionality to kitchens, outdoor spaces, and rustic-modern design, the best remodels in Coeur d’Alene are those that reflect both lifestyle and location.

Ready to Renovate Your Coeur d’Alene Home?

At The Idahoan, we help homeowners throughout Northern Idaho plan renovations that are beautiful, functional, and built to last. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, adding outdoor living space, or transforming a full home, our team is here to guide you through the process.

Contact us today to start planning your North Idaho renovation.