Most Popular Renovations in Vancouver 2026 (From VGC’s Project Data)
What are Vancouver homeowners actually renovating in 2026? VGC’s project data from the past 12 months reveals a clear picture — and it differs from what renovation magazines suggest. Here’s what Metro Vancouver homeowners are actually spending their renovation budgets on, and why.
Top 5 Most Requested Renovations — VGC Project Data 2025–2026
- #1: Legal Basement Suites (28% of all projects) — Rental income is the dominant driver. With Metro Vancouver rents for basement suites running $1,600–$2,400/month and construction costs at $85,000–$125,000, the payback period is 4–6 years — better than most investment alternatives.
- #2: Kitchen Gut Renovations (24% of projects) — Kitchens remain the most common renovation by volume. Most projects involve open-concept conversion, custom cabinetry, and quartz countertops. The median VGC kitchen project in 2025–2026 was $72,000.
- #3: Whole-Home / Multi-Room Renovations (18% of projects) — Buyers who purchased distressed properties for renovation are a significant share of this category. Post-purchase whole-home renovations have increased as buyers bought lower-priced fixer properties during the 2023–2024 market softening.
- #4: Master Ensuite Renovations (14% of projects) — The master ensuite has become the premier home investment — clients spend more per square foot on ensuites than any other space. The median ensuite project in 2025–2026 was $58,000.
- #5: Laneway Homes (9% of projects) — Demand for VGC laneway home projects grew 34% year-over-year as Bill 44 awareness increased and rental income became a primary homeowner strategy.
What’s Growing: Fastest-Rising Renovation Types
- Heat pump installations during renovation (+85% YoY): CleanBC rebates of $6,000–$10,000 make heat pump upgrades financially compelling when mechanical is already open during a renovation.
- Multiplex conversions (+210% YoY, from low base): Bill 44 is creating a new project category. Early adopters in Marpole, Hastings-Sunrise, and Renfrew-Collingwood are leading.
- ADU additions to existing rental portfolios: Investors with existing rental properties are adding laneway homes and garden suites to maximise lot density.
What’s Declining
- Luxury kitchen renovations over $120,000: Budget sensitivity has pushed most clients toward high-quality mid-range kitchens rather than fully custom
- Swimming pools and outdoor structures: The 2020–2022 outdoor living boom has normalised — pool and cabana projects are at 2019 levels
- Home office conversions: The rapid growth of dedicated home office renovations has plateaued as return-to-office policies have taken effect for more Vancouver employers
Planning a renovation? Contact VGC for a free consultation. Use our Renovation Cost Calculator for an instant estimate.
→ See also: Vancouver Renovation Cost Guide 2026
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