End-of-Year Home Renovation Projects to Get Done Before the Holidays

August 25, 2025

Summer is winding down in the East Valley, and the holidays are right around the corner. That means family gatherings, holiday dinners, and plenty of guests in your home. If you’ve been putting off updates, now is the perfect time to tackle them. Completing renovation projects before the holidays ensures your home looks its best and functions smoothly when it matters most.

At S&B Renovations, we help homeowners in Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and across the Valley get their homes holiday-ready. Here are the top projects to consider before the end of the year.

1. Kitchen Upgrades for Holiday Hosting

Arizona homes were built for entertaining—and nothing brings people together like the kitchen. Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a New Year’s party, a functional and updated kitchen makes hosting easier.

Projects to consider:

Countertops & Backsplash – Upgrading to quartz, granite, or butcher block creates a durable, stylish centerpiece. A new backsplash adds color and texture that instantly refreshes your space.
Cabinets & Hardware – Refinishing or painting cabinets, plus adding new handles and pulls, can dramatically modernize your kitchen without a full remodel.
Lighting – Pendant lights above the island, recessed ceiling fixtures, or under-cabinet lighting improve both ambiance and functionality.
Prep Space – Adding an island or extending a peninsula creates more counter space for cooking, serving, and gathering.
Appliance Upgrades – An updated oven or energy-efficient fridge ensures you’re ready for heavy holiday cooking.

By updating your kitchen now, you’ll be ready to welcome family and friends with confidence.

2. Bathroom Refreshes for Guests

Hosting family over the holidays means your bathrooms will be in constant use. A fresh, updated bathroom not only makes guests feel comfortable, but it also adds long-term value to your home.

Ideas to refresh your bathrooms:

Replace outdated faucets, showerheads, and hardware with modern finishes like matte black, brushed nickel, or gold.
Install a new vanity with more storage or double sinks.
Update flooring with durable, waterproof materials like tile or LVP.
Consider upgrading the shower with frameless glass doors or a rainfall showerhead.
Repaint or retile for a clean, modern look.

These updates can often be done quickly—meaning your home will be guest-ready by the holidays.

3. Flooring Updates

Flooring sets the tone for your home and gets the most wear and tear, especially during the holidays when traffic is high. If your floors are scratched, stained, or outdated, replacing them before the end of the year is a smart move.

Popular options for East Valley homes:

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Affordable, durable, and water-resistant—perfect for active households.
Tile Flooring: Stylish, long-lasting, and ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
Carpet Replacement: A cozy, fresh carpet in bedrooms or living areas makes holiday spaces warm and inviting.
Hardwood: Adds timeless beauty and increases home value.

Upgrading your flooring now ensures your home feels fresh and inviting before guests arrive.

4. Entryway & Living Room Makeovers

First impressions matter. The entryway is the first thing guests notice, and the living room is where memories are made. Updating these areas before the holidays creates a welcoming atmosphere.

Projects to consider:

A new front door for curb appeal and energy efficiency.
Crown molding, baseboards, or trim for a polished look.
Refacing or updating the fireplace to create a cozy focal point.
Adding built-in shelves or media walls for organization and style.
A fresh coat of paint in warm, inviting colors.

These upgrades instantly transform your home into a holiday-ready gathering space.

5. Energy-Efficient Improvements

Even in Arizona, the winter months mean cooler nights and higher energy bills. Making your home more efficient before the holidays keeps it comfortable and cost-effective.

Smart energy upgrades:

Replace drafty windows with energy-efficient models.
Upgrade exterior doors to reduce heat loss.
Add insulation in key areas like the attic.
Install a smart thermostat for better control and energy savings.

These upgrades make a noticeable difference when family and guests are in town—and they pay off year-round.

6. Exterior Touch-Ups

While most holiday fun happens indoors, your home’s exterior makes the first impression. Plus, Arizona’s mild winters mean outdoor spaces are still in use.

Great pre-holiday projects:

Refresh paint or repair stucco for a clean, modern look.
Add outdoor lighting for both safety and style.
Refinish or expand your patio for gatherings around a firepit or heaters.
Update landscaping to create a welcoming front yard.
Clean gutters and check roofing for seasonal protection.

A few simple exterior upgrades boost curb appeal and make your home holiday-ready.

Don’t Wait—The Holidays Will Be Here Soon

The last months of the year fly by quickly, and contractors book up fast. If you’re planning to update your home before the holidays, now is the time to get started.

At S&B Renovations, we specialize in creating beautiful, functional spaces for families across Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and Queen Creek. Whether you’re dreaming of a kitchen update, bathroom refresh, or full home renovation, our team is here to bring your vision to life—on time and on budget.

About

At S&B Renovations, we understand the frustration many homeowners feel when dealing with contractors. Missed deadlines, poor communication, and lack of professionalism have become far too common — and we’re here to change that.We built S&B Renovations with one mission: to make the remodeling experience better.