2025 Split-Level Renovation Checklist: Do’s & Don’ts

Start Here: What’s Your Renovation Goal in 2025?

Before you paint, demolish, or Google cabinet colors, ask yourself these questions:

• Are you making cosmetic upgrades or full structural changes?
• Do you plan to sell in 3–5 years or stay long-term?
• What bugs you most about the space — entry traffic flow? Darkness? Storage?

Tip: Write down your top 3 frustrations before looking at Pinterest. That becomes your to-do list.

Related: Take a tour of this split level house

Map Your Flow: Layout Matters in Split Levels

Split-level homes mean multiple zones like the entry, kitchen and basement, all stitched together by stairs.

Traffic flow is everything!

Smart Flow Tips:

• Track movement patterns for a week.
• Entryway: Can two people enter without a running into each other?
• Kitchen: Could removing one wall open the entire feel?

Real Moment: The day we removed the kitchen wall in this dated 1960’s split level was a game-changer.

The open concept living space completely transformed this home.

2025 Design Priorities For Split-Level Entryways:

• Wider doors with glass inserts = natural light boost
• Remove partial walls to increase flow (pony walls work too!)
• Add built-in bench + cubbies for storage (low clutter, high ROI)
• Use smart lighting (motion-activated + layered LEDs)

Related: Split level foyer before and after

Split Level Living Room With TV

Jim remodeled his 1970s split-level, opened the kitchen wall, added storage at the entry, and sold the home for $80K over asking.

Smart layout wins in any market.

He vaulted the ceiling in the kitchen, living room and foyer area while adding stone fireplace wall to accommodate a tv.

You can see an L shaped sectional fits perfectly in front of the bay window.

You will see that not only did he update every square inch of the home, he finished the basement adding a full master suite.

Take a tour of this remodeled split level home.

Budgeting: Avoid 2025’s Most Common Mistakes

Surprise costs are the #1 renovation morale killer.

Consider these renovation tips below:

• Add 20% buffer for the unknown
• Track your estimates vs. actual costs in Google Sheets
• Use contractors who understand (and are insured) split-level construction specifically
• Get 2 or 3 estimates to compare pricing and what is including

Should You DIY or Hire Pros?

DIY can be so exciting especially if you feel like you are going to save a ton of money!

But….

Be mindful that DIY can cost you more in the long run if you don’t know what you are doing.

DIY Categories:

• Green Light: Paint, light fixtures, basic landscaping
• Caution Zone: Flooring, tiling
• Call the Pros: Electrical, plumbing, wall removal (anything structural)

Smart Renovation by Room (2025 Edition)

Below you will find my top suggestions if you are considering a split level renovation.

These upgrades will not only visually make a huge difference but will also help increase the value of your home.

Entryway:

• Paint or replace front door
• Install layered lighting
• Add wall hooks or built-in bench
• Replace front door with a larger and wider door that lets natural light in
• Start here, to see how we removed the half wall and modernized our entry.

Kitchen:

• Open layout? Start here or here.
• Upgrade counters, backsplash, fridge/range
• Remove the load bearing wall or consider a half wall to create a more open feel

Bathrooms:

• Check for damage before design
• Add vertical storage
• Modern fixtures = instant ROI
• Replace the tub or install a standup custom tile shower
• Got a bathroom that needs to be completely gutted? Start here.

Basement:

• Fix moisture issues first
• Brighten with recessed lights
• Define usage (office/playroom/guest space)
• Want to add flooring and create an open concept? Start here.

Stairwell:

• Update railings (metal, cable, glass)
• Consider opening stairwell if safe
• Add safety lighting

Related: Visit our split level remodeling page with over 100 projects