It’s safe to say that the majority of people love a trendy home upgrade, and that’s because many of these upgrades today provide benefits other than just being aesthetically pleasing. The days of having the most expensive home renovations done to be in style are long gone, with affordability becoming more trendy. Here are five home upgrades that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but will also provide you with functional, financial, and even health benefits.

#1: Flooring

Currently, hardwood flooring is the most popular type of flooring— and for good reason. They’re much easier to maintain than carpet, they come in a variety of different looks, and they exude an overall elegant style. Hardwood flooring is also much better for your health than carpet. Carpet traps dirt, dust, pet dander, and other allergens, and is much harder to clean than hardwood floors.

The downside is that hardwood flooring can be expensive, and it’s pretty difficult to install. Fortunately, any type of hard-textured flooring is a better option than carpet when you’re trying to improve your health and indoor air quality. Other flooring options you can choose include:

• Vinyl

• Tile

• Rubber

• Linoleum

• Leather

• Laminate

• Cork

• Concrete

• Bamboo

#2: Houseplants

Speaking of indoor air quality, having real live plants in your home can help keep the air in your home clean and safer to breathe. Common indoor pollutants (also known as volatile organic compounds) include:

• Tobacco smoke

• Paint

• Disinfectants and cleaners

• Burning wood (fireplace)

• Air fresheners

• Adhesives

Having live plants around your home can help eliminate these volatile organic compounds and many more air pollutants that may be found in your home. On top of that, plants add a touch of luxury and elegance to your home. More and more homeowners are incorporating both live and artificial plants into their home decor.

#3: Kitchen Island

A kitchen island is a standalone countertop space that is often found in larger, more luxurious kitchens. It is possible, however, for you to add an island depending on the size of both your kitchen and the island. Smaller kitchen islands can still prove to be functional and trendy for your kitchen. At the very least, a small island will provide additional storage and counter space.

Larger islands can give you even more space for additional activities, whether it’s cooking or washing dishes. Kitchen islands of any size can fit in just about every kitchen design style, just make sure that you’re still able to work effectively in your kitchen before getting one.

#4: Smart Appliances and Devices

Smart gadgets are a huge trend in homes these days, and it’s likely because of the convenience and functionality they supply. Some of the most popular smart appliances that you may already own are energy-efficient appliances. These include washers and dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators, and even ovens. They use less water/electricity to function, allowing you to save on your energy bills.

Smart light bulbs, smart plugs, and smart thermostats are other smart devices that help you save energy. There are also smart home locks, cameras, and doorbells that work together to keep your home more secure from intruders. However, some of the more trendy smart devices are those used for entertainment, such as smart speakers and hubs.

#5: Vinyl Windows

Vinyl windows were first created in the 1970s, though many homes still don’t have vinyl windows. They’re some of the best insulators, keeping your home cool in the summer months by preventing cool air from slipping out and excess heat from coming indoors. This is especially helpful in areas that tend to see long, hot summers. Pair this with thick, heavy curtains hung with traverse curtain rods and you’ll have a stylish and more energy-efficient home.

Vinyl windows are also some of the most noise-resistant types of windows, muting loud noises from the outside. They’re also very durable and weather resistant, and they’re very easy to maintain. This is an affordable window option that can also increase your home’s overall value.

Try one or more of these home upgrades to create a more trendy, functional, healthy, and eco-friendly home. Some of these upgrades may cost you a good bit of money upfront but will save you much more money in the long run. Being trendy doesn’t mean you have to break the bank, and now it also means that your home upgrades aren’t just for show— they can provide you with many long-lasting benefits.