2026 Remodeled Show Home Goes Light on Demolition, Heavy on Efficiency
The scale of remodeling projects can range from small cosmetic updates to extensive overhauls. The New American Remodel® 2026 lands somewhere in the middle, taking a “soft remodel” approach that will revitalize the home and still retain much of its original character.
But even though the home will not undergo major structural changes, the strategic design updates and modern product integrations will transform the Winter Park, Fla., property from a dated, energy-guzzling residence into a sustainable, high-performance gem.
The Phil Kean Design Group is overseeing the 2026 remodel, converting an existing 3,341-square-foot home built in 1951 into a contemporary residence with 3,905 total square feet. The build team’s focus is to implement high-impact design updates that will improve livability and efficiency, while maintaining the original “bones” of the home.
“We’ve come up with techniques and technologies we could [use] to make the home as energy efficient as possible without demoing everything to the bare walls,” said Drew Smith, COO of Two Trails Inc., the project’s energy and sustainability consultant.
A major key to the project’s success is ensuring the shell of the home is as airtight as possible. Smith says they have used injected foam in the exterior walls and Fi-Foil product within the interior walls, as well as open-cell spray foam insulation on the ceilings.
With the combination of innovative construction methods and the latest products, Smith aims to showcase how even a “light remodel” can have a significant impact on efficiency. He anticipates the home will achieve net-zero status and earn several efficiency certifications including National Green Building Standard (NGBS) Emerald status, ENERGY STAR, Indoor airPlus, and Zero-Energy Ready Home from the Department of Energy.
The finished home will be officially unveiled during the 2026 International Builders' Show® in Orlando, Feb. 17-19. All registered Builders’ Show attendees will have the opportunity to tour the home for an immersive, in-person look at the latest trends in home remodeling.