Remodeling in a Tariff Economy: What You Need to Know (Without Freaking Out)
If you've talked to anyone in construction or design lately - or tried to order a piece of (insert anything you’ve ever wanted to purchase here) - you’ve probably heard the word tariffs tossed around more than once. And if you’re wondering what that means for your remodel (or your sanity), you’re not alone.
At Loczi Design, we’ve been keeping our ear to the ground - chatting with vendors, attending trade shows, and generally doing our homework - so we can help you navigate this without losing sight of what really matters: creating a home that feels like you.
We’re not here to scare you with worst-case scenarios or urge you to remodel right this second (unless you want to - then we’re all in). But we do want to pull back the curtain on what’s happening, why it matters, and how we’re handling it behind the scenes so your dream space doesn’t turn into a budget nightmare.
What Tariffs Actually Mean for Your Dream Space
Let’s get real - tariffs are the uninvited guest at your remodel party. They sneak in, add a little extra cost here and there, and can make sourcing materials feel like playing a game of international roulette.
While the intention behind tariffs is to support domestic industries (and we’re all for that), they can throw a wrench into things when it comes to design materials. Italian stone, Moroccan tile, South American hardwoods - yes, those dreamy, drool-worthy elements - can start to inch up in price. Even American-made goods aren’t immune.
But here’s the thing: we don’t see tariffs as a stop sign - we see them as a chance to get creative. With a little extra planning (and a lot of vendor sweet-talking), those iconic materials are still within reach. We’ve been in this business long enough to know that a great design doesn’t come from playing it safe - it comes from knowing when to pivot, when to splurge, and when to source early.
Remodeling today takes a little more awareness, a little more flexibility, and a whole lot of proactive thinking. Luckily, that’s kind of our thing.
We’re Watching the Forecast - So You Don’t Have To
Here’s what we’ve been hearing (and seeing) loud and clear at recent design events and from our trusted vendors: material prices are heading up. Yep, across the board, many suppliers are bracing for a 7–10% increase in the next few months. Why? A perfect storm of:
Global tariffs shaking up material flow
Shipping slowdowns and rising freight costs (because nothing moves fast these days)
Labor demand increasing across all trades
This isn’t just hitting builders - it’s touching everyone from artisans to major manufacturers. But here’s the good news: we’re on it.
We’re having real-time conversations with our vendors, asking the hard questions, and making moves to keep your project ahead of the curve. Early planning? Strategic sourcing? That’s how we keep surprises to a minimum and your remodel moving forward with purpose (and yes, a little style and swagger too).
Why Now Might Be the Right Time to Start Your Remodel
We’re not here to twist your arm - but timing really does matter. In a shifting economy like this one, starting your remodel sooner could give you a leg up before price hikes take hold or product availability gets even trickier.
Here’s what we’ve been seeing with all of our clients who are moving forward now:
Locking in today’s pricing on premium materials and skilled labor (before increases kick in).
Landing those prime contractor slots - because trust us, the good ones book up fast.
Dodging the backorder blues (or worse - discovering your dream tile is discontinued right when you need it most).
We get it - remodeling is a big decision, and we’ll never rush you. But if you’ve been thinking about it, now might be a good time to get the ball rolling. We’re here to help you plan with purpose, so when you’re ready, you’re really ready.
Turning Challenges Into “Watch What We Can Do”
Market shake-up? We see it as an invitation to get creative. We don’t shy away from change - we lean into it. Whether it’s navigating tariffs, juggling timelines, or sourcing that perfect piece when the universe seems determined to say “no,” we show up with fresh ideas and a game plan.
Our approach is simple:
Stay nimble.
Think creatively.
Design beautifully - no matter what the economy’s doing.
Because at the end of the day, great design isn’t about waiting for perfect conditions - it’s about making magic with what you’ve got. And trust us, we’ve got this.
1. Partnering with the Right People (Because Who You Know Does Matter)
Great design doesn’t happen in a vacuum - it’s all about the relationships. Over the years, we’ve built a network of trusted vendors, makers, and artisans - locally and globally - who help us bring our clients’ visions to life. And these aren’t just names on a business card. These are real connections that come with real perks:
First dibs on exclusive or hard-to-get materials
Better pricing through established trade relationships
Front-of-the-line status when it comes to production and delivery
These partnerships aren’t just nice to have - they keep your project moving, unlock one-of-a-kind resources, and make sure we’re always a step ahead (because we like being there).
2. Keeping the Process Smooth (Because Remodels Don’t Have to Be a Hot Mess)
We believe efficiency is a form of craftsmanship. Great design isn’t just about what you see at the end - it’s about how we get there. We’ve honed a process that simplifies the complex, keeps communication clear, and makes sure everyone (including you!) knows what’s happening next.
Here’s how we keep things moving:
Quick transitions from big ideas to boots-on-the-ground construction
Smart budgeting across phases, so there are no surprise splurges (unless they’re the good kind)
Flexibility to pivot when life - or shipping delays - happens
With thoughtful planning and a little adaptability, we keep your project on track without losing that creative spark. It’s how we roll.
3. Communication and Trust? Yeah, We’re Big on Both.
Let’s be honest: a remodel without good communication? That’s a disaster waiting to happen. Our team leads with transparency because we know trust is what keeps everything moving smoothly. From the first sketch to the final install, we’re in your corner - talking timelines, budgets, vendor updates, and anything else you need to know.
Here’s what that looks like:
Confident, timely decisions (because you’ve got the info you need)
Clarity when plans pivot (because, let’s face it, they sometimes do)
Support from start to finish (because we’re in this together)
Your peace of mind matters just as much as your design vision. When trust is the foundation, the rest builds beautifully.
Creativity with Purpose: Redefining Luxury (It’s Not What You Think)
We don’t see limitations - we see invitations to get creative. Tariffs, material shortages, shifting markets? Sure, they can complicate things - but they also push us to think differently, to source smarter, and to design with more intention.
MADE by Ann Sacks is a highly curated line of tile conceived, created and refined all under one roof in Portland Oregon.
One of our favorite ways to keep things beautiful and grounded is leaning into our trusted network of vendors who aren’t impacted by these global shifts. We partner with companies like Ann Sacks and Heath Ceramics - brands we love that offer incredible quality, craftsmanship, and style. These partnerships help us keep your project flowing without compromising on the good stuff.
More and more, our clients are leaning into designs that reflect not just their style but their values. That means:
Locally sourced materials with stories to tell and character to spare
Sustainable finishes that feel as good as they look
Collaborations with incredible domestic artisans - think Hare and Arrow Arts who craft one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find anywhere else
These aren’t just beautiful rooms - they’re spaces with soul. Spaces that feel good because they do good. Every piece becomes part of your story - rooted in purpose, layered with meaning, and, of course, gorgeous
Hare and Arrow custom barstool designed for Loczi Design
Build with Purpose, Not Pressure
Sure, tariffs and supply chain drama shape how we work - but they don’t get to decide what’s possible. With a little foresight, some flexibility, and the right team in your corner (hi, that’s us), you can move through all of this and still land in a space that feels like everything you hoped for - and more.
Every challenge? It’s just a chance for us to get even more creative. We’re here to craft a space that tells your story, fits your lifestyle, and feels aligned with both your budget and your dreams.
Wondering when to start? Honestly, there’s no “perfect” time - but if you’re feeling ready, that’s a good sign it’s time. Let’s get going when it feels right for you.
