Goodbye Tiled Backsplashes: Paneled Kitchens Make a Comeback

Textured, timeless, and full of character—paneled kitchen backsplashes are having a moment.

While tile and stone have long dominated kitchen design, wood paneling is quietly reclaiming its place. This isn’t a new idea—it was a staple in old country kitchens—but it fell out of favor as statement stone and subway tile became the go-to backsplash options. Now, in 2025, home design is shifting toward kitchens with warmth, character, and lived-in appeal—and paneled backsplashes are back in style.

The Appeal of Kitchen Paneling

Paneling has long been a favorite wall treatment in bedrooms, living rooms, and hallways, offering texture and architectural interest. Designers are now bringing it into kitchens, where it adds subtle elegance. Unlike bold tiles or flashy stone, a paneled backsplash feels intentional and tailored, bridging the gap between utility and comfort. Its roots in historic millwork lend a sense of permanence and tradition—even in modern spaces.

This trend also reflects a broader shift in kitchen design. Today’s kitchens are less about utility and more about gathering. They’re spaces to cook, eat, entertain, and spend time together. A paneled backsplash complements this shift, giving the kitchen a curated, cohesive look, especially when it matches cabinetry or painted finishes. The effect is seamless: the kitchen reads as a single, unified piece rather than a collection of competing surfaces.

Making Paneled Backsplashes Work

Of course, practicality is important. Wood is naturally sensitive to water, heat, and grease. Consider paneling carefully: behind the range, a protective sheet of glass or stainless steel is essential, while lower-impact areas—like behind a sink or open shelving—work beautifully with a durable satin or semi-gloss finish. Proper installation, sealing, and ventilation are key to prevent warping and ensure long-term performance.

Timeless Kitchen Paneling for Function and Style

You can also mix materials for a stylish, functional solution. Pairing paneling with tile creates a layered, collected look, balancing texture and interest without feeling overdone. Paneling doesn’t have to dominate; it can act as a subtle backdrop that elevates the entire space. Ultimately, a paneled backsplash is about more than aesthetics. It brings warmth, character, and a timeless feel to your kitchen, helping it feel lived-in, personalized, and inviting—far from a sterile, purely functional room.

Transform your kitchen or bath—get a free estimate from JFC Remodeling today!

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Embrace Summer and Transform Your Space: Update Your Home with JFC Remodeling

Image of an elderly husband and wife snugly sitting on a couch, looking over renovation plans on a laptop.

As summer heats up and August rolls in, it’s the perfect time to embrace the sunshine and spend more time outdoors. As you enjoy the warmth and longer days, why not also consider updating your home to make it more livable, enjoyable, and tailored to your personal style? Whether you’re looking to enhance your home for your own comfort or increase its value, there’s no better time than now to start thinking about a home renovation project.

Remodeling Trends

At JFC Remodeling, we specialize in making homes more functional and beautiful. If you’re considering a renovation, here are five popular trends that could transform your space:

Livability Over Luxury


Today, homeowners are prioritizing comfort and convenience over extravagant luxury. Projects that enhance everyday living – such as updated kitchens, bathrooms, and functional flooring – are in higher demand than extravagant lavishness. At JFC Remodeling, we focus on creating spaces that work for you every day, making your home a true reflection of your lifestyle.

Personalized Style


Homeowners are moving away from generic trends and instead opting for design and décor that better reflect their personal tastes and lifestyles. This shift toward customization means homes are becoming more unique. Whether it’s a kitchen remodel with custom cabinetry or a bathroom that blends form and function, JFC Remodeling can help you achieve a design that speaks to you.

Separate Showers and Tubs


For years, it was common to have a shower and bathtub together in one space. Today, many homeowners are choosing to separate them. Some even opt for large, luxurious showers while forgoing the bathtub altogether. If you’re thinking about updating your bathroom, this is a trend worth considering for both style and functionality.

Importance of Accessibility


As more Americans opt to stay in their homes longer, making their living spaces more accessible is becoming a priority. Homeowners are making thoughtful changes to outlets, countertops, hallways, and stairs to ensure that their homes remain comfortable and easy to navigate as they age. A little planning now can help ensure a smoother transition later in life.

Open Design (Especially Kitchens)


The open kitchen design continues to be a favorite among homeowners, particularly those in older homes where the kitchen may have been isolated from the rest of the living space. An open-concept kitchen allows for better flow between rooms and creates a more inviting atmosphere for family and guests.

Start Your Remodeling Journey Today

Late summer is an ideal time to start your renovation project. If any of the trends mentioned resonate with you, now is a great time to talk to us at JFC Remodeling. Whether you’re dreaming of an updated kitchen, a more accessible home, or a personalized bathroom, we can help bring your vision to life. Let us create a design and plan that will make your home more enjoyable as we head into fall.

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JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Transform Your Basement with JFC Remodeling: Expert Design and Craftsmanship

Remodeling your basement offers the opportunity to create a personalized space that perfectly fits your needs, whether it’s for entertainment, relaxation, or additional living space. The skilled craftsmen at JFC Remodeling guide you through every step of the design and remodeling process, ensuring your vision is brought to life. We take pride in our attention to detail, and by the end of the project, you’ll have a beautifully finished basement that enhances your home and suits your family’s lifestyle.

What is the Average Cost to Refinish a Basement?

On average, finishing a basement can cost around $32,000, although the price range can vary significantly from $2,800 to over $100,000. Several factors influence the cost, such as the square footage, materials, permits, appliances, and labor involved. Typically, basement finishing costs range from $7 to $23 per square foot, depending on the scope of your project.

What Adds the Most Value When Finishing a Basement?

Maximizing your basement’s value involves making design choices that increase both functionality and appeal. Here are some features that add substantial value:

  • Natural Light: If possible, consider creating a walk-out basement. Not only does this allow more natural light, but it also makes the space more inviting for you and attractive to potential buyers.
  • Indoor/Outdoor Fireplace: Positioning a fireplace to be enjoyed from both the interior and exterior of the basement creates a unique and cozy atmosphere. This feature adds value and enhances the indoor-outdoor flow of your home.
  • Wet Bars and Wine Rooms: Wet bars remain a popular choice for basement remodels, while wine rooms are also gaining attention. These dedicated storage spaces are becoming increasingly trendy, especially when tucked into underutilized areas such as beneath staircases. Wine rooms offer optimal storage and temperature control, and the options for wet bars range from simple bar setups to extended dining and entertainment areas.
  • Flooring: Carpeting has fallen out of favor in basements, with luxury vinyl plank (LVP) emerging as the top choice. LVP is durable, easy to clean, and comes in a variety of styles and colors, making it an ideal option for basement flooring.
  • Optional Rooms: Many homeowners are forgoing a guest bedroom and instead creating a functional space for daily use, such as a home office, exercise room, or playroom. If you opt for an exercise room, consider adding a steam shower or sauna to elevate the experience.

By prioritizing these features in your basement remodel, you’ll not only enhance the enjoyment of your home but also increase its overall value. Let the experts at JFC Remodeling help you bring your basement vision to life.

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JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

The One Bathroom Upgrade That Will Add the Most Value to Your Home

Image of a basic bathroom with white walls and gray cabinetry.

When renovating your home, balancing personal style, functionality, and potential resale value is key. The bathroom, especially the primary one, is a space where these elements converge. It’s a room that not only serves a practical function but also offers an opportunity to create a luxurious retreat. But which upgrade provides the most return on investment? According to top real estate experts, it’s a spa-like walk-in shower.

Why a Luxury Shower is the Ultimate Bathroom Upgrade

Upgrading to a high-end shower is the most impactful change you can make in your bathroom. Real estate professionals agree that luxury and design are top priorities for homebuyers, and a beautifully designed walk-in shower ticks all the boxes. This upgrade not only enhances the bathroom’s appeal but can also help your home sell faster and for a higher price. Even smaller changes, like adding a frameless glass shower door or replacing outdated fixtures, can create a spa-like atmosphere that buyers crave.

Tips for Creating a Luxury Shower

  • Make It the Focal Point: If your budget is limited, focus on making the shower the standout feature. Keep the rest of the bathroom simple and timeless, allowing the shower to shine.
  • Choose Natural Stone: Opt for luxurious materials like marble or high-quality ceramic for a sophisticated finish. These materials provide long-term value and will appeal to future buyers.
  • Double Shower Heads: If possible, add a second shower head for a truly indulgent experience. It’s a feature many buyers will love, and it’s easy to install during a renovation.
  • Swap Out the Curtain: Replace a dated shower curtain with a glass door or splash guard for an instant upgrade, making the space feel cleaner and more upscale.

By focusing on a luxurious walk-in shower, you can significantly increase the value of your home while also creating a personal retreat that you’ll enjoy every day. Ready to elevate your bathroom? Let JFC Remodeling help you bring your vision to life with high-quality craftsmanship and design.

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JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

What’s Replacing Modern Farmhouse Kitchens in 2025? 5 Fresh Styles Designers Recommend

As we move into 2025, the modern farmhouse kitchen, once a top trend, is giving way to new, more personalized designs. While the farmhouse style still holds a place in some kitchens, homeowners and designers are increasingly gravitating towards bolder, warmer, and more unique looks that offer timeless appeal. If you’re planning a kitchen update this year, here are five styles to consider:

1. Transitional Cottage-Style Kitchen

The transitional cottage style combines the best of historical and contemporary design, making it a timeless choice. Stylists are embracing rich, moody hues such as mushroom, burgundy, and sage green for cabinetry, paired with dark oak woods and textured materials like zellige tiles. This style offers a sense of stability and longevity, perfect for homeowners seeking a look that won’t quickly feel outdated.

2. Rich, Moody Kitchen Designs

The shift away from light and airy modern farmhouse kitchens is driven by a desire for deeper, richer colors. Moody tones like navy and dark purple are gaining popularity in the kitchen, where they pair beautifully with rustic elements like brick walls. Try bold tones for shaker cabinetry, complemented by white and cream accents, like marble countertops, to balance the dramatic hues.

3. Wooden Kitchen Interiors

Wood is making a major comeback, adding warmth and texture to modern kitchens. Reclaimed or rustic wood finishes bring character, while mixing materials like metallic features and polished countertops gives the space a sophisticated edge. Designers suggest pairing wood with chic accents like marble and brass for a timeless look that’s both stylish and inviting.

4. Slab Front Kitchen Cabinets

For those seeking a more minimalist approach, slab-front cabinets are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to modern farmhouse designs. These sleek, handleless cabinets offer a modern, unembellished look that blends seamlessly with open-plan living spaces. This style of kitchen combines both form and function, making it an integrated part of daily life rather than a separate utilitarian zone

5. Eclectic and Bespoke Kitchen Designs

Moving away from trend-driven aesthetics, 2025 is all about kitchens that are uniquely personal. There is a shift toward eclectic and bespoke design choices that reflect individual taste rather than following a specific trend. Layered textures, metallic finishes, and deep, earthy colors like oxblood and muted greens create kitchens that feel truly one-of-a-kind.

These fresh, diverse styles offer a range of exciting possibilities for homeowners looking to create kitchens that are both functional and full of character. Whether you favor rich color schemes, minimalist elegance, or a more bespoke approach, there’s a kitchen style for everyone. Contact JFC Remodeling today to schedule a consultation for your kitchen redesign.

Licensed and Insured Contractors with Expert Skills in Crafting Modern, Unique, and Polished Renovations.

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.