10 Little Features That Make a Big Difference in Remodels
When you're deep in a construction site covered in dust, chasing down a change order, and triple-checking the blueprints, it’s easy to focus on the big-ticket items—like the foundation, floor plan, or framing. But sometimes, it’s the tiny details that make a remodeled home feel like magic. Whether you're a general contractor, a homeowner working with custom home builders, or someone just lurking on Pinterest with wild dreams, here are 10 underrated features that pack a serious punch.
1. Soft-Close Everything
Cabinets, drawers, even toilet seats—soft-close features aren’t just fancy, they’re sanity-saving. No more midnight “BAM!” when someone goes for a snack. It’s one of those upgrades that contractors love to install because it shows thoughtfulness in design.
Pro tip from your favorite construction worker: Clients will brag about this like it’s the crown jewel of the remodel.
2. Hidden Electrical Outlets
Tuck outlets inside drawers, medicine cabinets, or under cabinets for a sleek, clutter-free look. No more tangled cords ruining your aesthetic. It's a small form that can drastically improve function.
Plus, pair this with a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) and you’ve got safety and style wrapped into one modern move.
3. Frieze Boards (aka Bird Blocks)
Not just for birds! Adding frieze boards gives your eaves a finished, elevated look. They also help with attic ventilation—bonus points for combining looks and function. Ask your home builder or construction company to include it in your bid.
4. Upgraded Fascia
The fascia board runs along the edge of your roof—upgrade this to composite or aluminum for durability and curb appeal. It's not the sexiest feature, but it protects the felt (underlayment) and helps maintain your roof's structure.
Your general contractor might not brag about it—but they should.
5. Well-Placed Flashing
Flashing keeps water out of those annoying cracks where two materials meet. When installed right, it prevents long-term damage. Your building construction might be beautiful now, but poor flashing will have you paying that cost to build a house twice.
6. Custom Floor Vents
Match them to your flooring—wood, tile, or carpet. It’s the kind of detail that separates a rushed job from a thoughtful one. Bonus points if you use CAD (Computer-Aided Design) to make sure placement doesn’t clash with your layout.
7. Passive House Principles (Even in Small Ways)
You don’t have to go full Passive House to benefit from it. Try a bit of damp proofing, better insulation, or fire-resistive (fire-rated) drywall. These subtle upgrades make the house comfier and reduce long-term energy bills.
8. Floating Vanities & Toilet Tanks
Wall-mounted vanities and toilets aren’t just trendy—they make small spaces feel bigger, simplify cleaning, and look high-end. If your floor plan feels cramped, these tiny upgrades are a game changer.
A savvy builder knows how to make compact layouts feel airy.
9. Built-In Niches
Add a little niche in your shower or by your bed. These cozy pockets create functional storage without disrupting flow—and can be planned early using BIM (Building Information Modeling). Fancy tech, fancy soap shelf.
10. Under-Cabinet Lighting
Want to feel like you live in a magazine spread? Install under-cabinet lights. They make kitchens and bathrooms glow like a dream. Pro contractor tip: use motion sensors for a futuristic vibe.
Final Thoughts
Sure, the grade of your footer (footing) and the structural integrity of your glulam (glued laminated beam) matter. But it’s these smaller, clever touches that elevate a remodel from “meh” to “wow.” The next time you meet with your construction company or custom home builder, bring up a few of these features—they’ll respect your vision and might even geek out with you.
Because in the world of flatwork, floating shelves, and the ever-lurking threat of expansive soils, it’s the little things that make the big difference.
Want help figuring out how to add these features into your remodel? Give our team at E.H. Construction a shout. We’ve got the forced air heating/cooling expertise, the form finesse, and a back pocket full of clever tricks—even a backhoe if we need it.