**Britons Favour Stylish Home Makeovers Over Energy Efficiency, New Study Finds**
Homeowners in the United Kingdom are increasingly prioritising visually appealing home renovations rather than investing in energy-saving features, a new study reveals. Despite mounting concerns about sustainability, aesthetic upgrades such as luxury kitchens and modern bathrooms are drawing more attention and investment from property owners.
According to research commissioned by the Skipton Building Society involving 2,000 homeowners, more than half of respondents admit to making upgrades that enhance their home’s appearance, believing these will boost property value and provide immediate satisfaction. The allure of stylish fixtures and chic interiors appears to outweigh the perceived benefits of eco-friendly measures like improved insulation or the installation of energy-efficient heating systems.
This trend has been further highlighted by the recent release of The Big Retrofit report, a comprehensive examination of energy efficiency improvements in British homes. The research, involving experts from Leeds Beckett University and the University of Leeds, documents the transformation of a typical 1930s detached residence. Through retrofitting—where properties are upgraded for improved energy performance—the home’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating was lifted from a D to a B.
Phil Spencer, renowned property presenter and founder of Move iQ, weighed in on the findings. He observed that while it is easy to be captivated by bold décor choices, the most worthwhile home enhancements aren’t always those that photograph well or attract attention on social media. “Green upgrades not only bring long-term savings, but they increase comfort and property value, all while maintaining your home’s aesthetic,” he said.
Despite the popularity of makeovers, the report indicates a growing curiosity about sustainable living. Over a quarter of Brits know someone who has embraced eco-friendly home improvements, and just over half feel encouraged to follow their example. Technologies such as solar panels are increasingly considered, with 48 per cent expressing interest in adopting them. Better loft insulation and triple-glazed windows are also options under consideration by 24 per cent and 15 per cent of homeowners, respectively.
Notably, 38 per cent of respondents cited learning about reduced energy bills experienced by others as a key motivator for getting involved themselves. For some, the prospect of slashing household expenses is powerful enough to push energy-saving measures higher up their wish list.
The findings suggest a cultural shift in what it means to be a successful homeowner in the UK. Features such as being able to charge an electric vehicle at home, owning a heat pump, or enjoying underfloor heating powered by renewable sources are now regarded as status symbols among a growing portion of the population.
Michaela Wright, head of group sustainability at Skipton Building Society, commented on this changing landscape: “When people see neighbours installing greener technologies, it becomes more relatable and inspires others to act. There’s an aspirational quality developing around energy efficiency that goes beyond mere practicality.”
Still, the report acknowledged that energy-saving upgrades are not always at the forefront of everyone’s minds. To address this knowledge gap, Skipton Building Society detailed its own retrofitting experience through The Big Retrofit project, publishing a series of resources aimed at demystifying the process and encouraging homeowners to consider similar improvements.
As the dialogue around home renovations and their impact on both property value and the environment continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether the UK’s passion for visually striking makeovers will eventually give way to a greater embrace of sustainability. For now, the pursuit of ‘Instagrammable’ interiors holds sway, even as awareness of energy efficiency gradually rises.