Home renovation trends are always keenly watched by enthusiasts of home design and DIY, and every year trend spotting experts predict and share what they think will be the hottest fad which will impact various industries over the upcoming months.
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While tech, clothing, travel and décor are always a focus at the start of the new year, trends in home design, renovation, and DIY sometimes have potential surprises in store.
Orlando Luis, CEO of Brights Hardware, shares his insights on what South Africans can expect in 2024 when it comes to DIY trends, home maintenance, upgrades, and renovating.
Overall, Orlano suggests that we may see a slowing down in demand for alternative energy solutions, whilst sustainable/green products for the home will remain in demand, but will be dampened by costs and spending constraints.
Insider insights
Air bnb rentals
“More and more people are converting parts of their homes into income-generating short-term rental spaces that they advertise on platforms such as Airbnb etc. This is an effective way to make some additional income on the side and many hosts enjoy the social interaction with their guests – who can come from all over the world,” he says.
“In 2024 we expect to see this trend continue, particularly in Cape Town which is a tourism hot spot, and so home renovations will be in keeping with this as plans are drawn, rooms and bathrooms added, kitchenettes installed and more.”
Multi-generational living
“In addition to this, multi-generational living also continues to gain traction as families pool their resources and move into shared properties. In this light, we expect to see more homes being renovated – such as garage conversions or extensions – to accommodate extended family, ageing parents, adult children,” says Luis.
“Good news for those considering some building work is that the price of PPC cement only increased by 4% in January which is less than previous years, whilst the import cement brand, Alpine, is maintaining its 2023 price into the first quarter of 2024, which will hopefully stimulate the building industry.”
Green solutions a top trend
“A trend that is not going anywhere anytime soon is greener homes, with more people looking at fresh and additional ways to adopt more sustainable principles in their homes. In this light we will continue to see new and innovative “green” products hitting the shelves in hardware stores,” says Luis.
“However, financial constraints will possibly put a dampener on how fast this sector could grow and some of the smart solutions to more sustainable homes do come with a higher price tag so whilst this trend is here to stay, in SA it is for the more selective customer.”
Alternative energy demand could slow
“Surprisingly, even with ongoing load-shedding Luis advises that the sales of alternative energy solutions such as solar panels have dropped off, with many consumers only reacting when there are consistent stage 4 and above power cuts. Added to this the price of solar panels has dropped and the market is overstocked. The same applies to generators.”
“Looking forward into 2024 we anticipate this to be the status quo, however, it could all be turned on its head by the container situation in Durban which could possibly lead to stock shortages by February – it is hard to predict for sure,” says Luis.
Tool trends see cordless stay on top
“Tool trends continue to see everything go cordless and this will remain the case in 2024. Going battery-powered means getting rid of the hassle of plugs and long extension cords when working with power tools – plus if your batteries are charged you can continue to work through load-shedding.”
Luis explains that most power tools work off the same 18V battery platform and these batteries are interchangeable. From impact drills to circular saws, glue guns to screwdrivers – these are all available in cordless versions and most new power tools entering the market are cordless. This even includes power tools for gardening such as hedge trimmers, chainsaws and even lawn mowers.”
“Another handy product that is trending in the cordless sector – although not a tool – is the rechargeable desk or pedestal fan which assists in keeping you cool during the hot summer evenings while it’s loadshedding.”
Cost cutting a focus
“Overall, trends in consumer buying habits have shown that price is more important than ever before, and manufacturers and suppliers will need to be sure to keep bringing products to market in 2024 that meet the needs of the increasingly budget-conscious.”
“As part of this drive to cut costs, we will continue to see South Africans embracing upcycling and this in turn ties into the trend of going green and seeking more sustainable solutions.”
South Africans embrace DIY
According to Luis, 2024 will also see more South Africans embracing DIY. “The DIY movement allows people to save money, get the job done quickly without waiting for a contractor and provides a wonderful sense of accomplishment at a job self-done.”
“We have seen an increase in sales of paint, brushes and tools as people strive to maintain and improve their homes and anticipate this to remain a trend in 2024 as people spend more money on their homes rather than on travel – which was the main focus after COVID.”
Tip: “It’s a good idea to purchase your paint before March 2024, when the new prices are implemented,” advises Luis.
To make sure you’re on the right track with any of your projects, it’s often best to get first hand advice and guidance on any product, building and renovating trends.
