Home Design & Remodeling Trends in Central Ohio
Is the kitchen still the heart of the home? Of course. But lately, that heart has some competition—and it’s coming from a cozy, cocktail-ready corner just down the hall. Home entertaining is moving out of the Kitchen and into the “home lounge”.
Say hello to the Home Lounge. At The Cleary Company, we’ve noticed a major trend emerging over the last couple of years: homeowners are craving dedicated spaces for entertaining that don’t involve hovering over a stovetop or clearing off counters. “Our clients want a space to entertain separate from the kitchen hub,” says Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP Design & Development Manager at The Cleary Company Design Build Remodel in Columbus, Ohio. And honestly? We get it.
So, what exactly is a Home Lounge?
Think of it as a living room that decided to put on a blazer and host a party. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and fully outfitted for fun—without the constant clatter of dinner prep in the background.
Here are a few recent examples from our favorite clients:
- Bexley – A home office and drop zone was transformed into a speakeasy-style lounge with plush comfy seating, and tower wine fridge.
- Upper Arlington – We designed an eye-catching covered porch addition complete and converted and existing den into a custom bar with floor to ceiling built-in cabinetry, antique mirrored glass, and a kitchenette. Connecting the outdoor space with a folding glass wall from NanaWall that blurs the line between inside and out and a cozy fireplace.
- Powell – A man cave reimagined! The basement adult play space was transformed into a sophisticated “Old World European” style wine cellar and tasting room. (Who says you can’t sip your wine and sink into a seat at the same time?)
Whether it’s a sophisticated cocktail spot or a family-friendly hangout, these new spaces have one key thing in common: they bring people together.
The Materials Making It Magic: Reclaimed Wood & “Rustic Lux”
One design element keeps popping up in these lounges—reclaimed and distressed wood. Not just for barns anymore, this material has found its way into stylish homes across the Midwest.
The trend? Mixing warm, rustic textures with softer, more refined details. Think barn wood ceilings paired with velvet chairs or industrial metal shelving framing delicate glassware. It’s sustainability meets sophistication—a vibe one of our clients affectionately called “rustic lux.”
This look isn’t just on-trend—it’s growing. As more homeowners embrace eco-conscious design, the appeal of re-purposed materials with a story (and a little character) keeps rising.
Ready to build your own home lounge or “rustic lux” retreat?
Let’s design a space that feels like you—and hosts like a pro.
Schedule a call with our Client Relations Coordinator or complete the new project form on our website to get started!
