If you own a split level home, chances are you’ve thought about remodeling it at some point. These houses became especially popular in the 1950s through the 1970s, thanks to their clever use of space and family-friendly layouts. Multiple short staircases, half-levels, and open landings made them different from the traditional one-story ranch or two-story colonial homes of that time.
But while split levels were once considered modern, many of them now feel outdated. Dark rooms, small kitchens, low ceilings, and aging exteriors can make the layout seem less practical by today’s standards. That’s where a split level home remodel comes in — it gives you the chance to keep the charm of the original design while updating the layout, finishes, and flow for modern living.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about remodeling a split level home. You’ll find design ideas to refresh your interior, cost tips to plan your budget, and inspiration for exterior updates that boost curb appeal. I’ll also share real-world insights and before-and-after transformations so you can picture how your own home could look after a remodel.
Think of this as a friendly conversation with someone who has been through the process many times. Whether you’re dreaming about a brighter kitchen, a more open living space, or a fresh new exterior, you’ll find helpful guidance here to make your split level feel like home again.
Mission Statement
This article is designed to guide homeowners in understanding, planning, and executing a split level home remodel with confidence. By combining expert insights, real-world experience, and practical design tips, our mission is to help readers modernize their split level homes without losing character. We aim to provide trustworthy, easy-to-follow advice that balances style, functionality, and cost, so every homeowner feels empowered to transform their house into a more comfortable and valuable living space.
Understanding Split Level Homes
Split level homes are a little different from the traditional one-story ranch or full two-story houses you often see. Instead of a single staircase leading you from one level to the next, split levels have short flights of stairs that connect multiple levels. You might walk in through the front door and find yourself on a middle landing, with a few steps leading up to the bedrooms and a few steps going down to the family room or basement. This multi-level layout is what makes split level homes stand out.
Back in the 1960s and 1970s, split levels were seen as the cutting edge of suburban living. They allowed builders to maximize space on smaller lots and gave families a smart way to separate “quiet” areas like bedrooms from “busy” areas like living rooms and kitchens. They were also more affordable than many larger two-story homes at the time, which made them a popular choice for young families.
Of course, what was stylish 50 years ago doesn’t always work well today. Many split level homes now come with dated finishes, dark interiors, and tricky layouts that don’t fit the way we live anymore. Kitchens may feel closed off, living rooms can seem too chopped up, and storage might be limited. Even the exterior styles — think heavy brick, dark wood siding, or outdated shingles — can make the home feel stuck in another era.
That’s why a remodel is often the best solution. With thoughtful updates, you can open up the living spaces, bring in more natural light, modernize the finishes, and improve the overall flow of your home. The split level layout actually offers a lot of flexibility — it just needs the right touches to shine again.
Planning Your Remodel the Right Way
Before you start knocking down walls or picking out new floors, it’s important to have a clear plan. Remodeling a split level home can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming without the right roadmap. Here’s how I usually walk homeowners through the planning stage:
Set a Realistic Budget
Think of your budget in two parts — interior updates and exterior upgrades.
- Interior projects like kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and lighting usually take up the biggest share of your remodel costs. Kitchens, in particular, can range anywhere from moderate updates (new cabinets, countertops, appliances) to full redesigns.
- Exterior projects — siding, roofing, landscaping, and entryways — are often less expensive individually, but they add up and make a huge difference in curb appeal.
A smart budget keeps some room for surprises, because older split level homes often come with hidden issues once walls or floors are opened.
Don’t Skip Permits and Codes
This is one step that too many homeowners overlook. Even if you’re just moving a wall or adding a larger window, local building codes and permits usually apply. Ignoring them can cause problems later, especially when you try to sell your home. It’s always best to check with your local city or county office before starting.
DIY or Hire Experts?
Some homeowners like to do parts of the remodel themselves — painting, small landscaping jobs, or even tiling. That’s great if you have the skills. But for bigger tasks like structural changes, electrical work, or plumbing, I always recommend bringing in licensed professionals. A good contractor or designer can also help you avoid costly mistakes and guide you toward the best layout choices for a split level home.
Plan Your Timeline in Phases
Remodeling while living in the house can be tough. That’s why it helps to phase the work. For example, you might start with the kitchen, then move to the living areas, and finish with the exterior. This way, you don’t have your entire home torn apart at once, and you can still live somewhat comfortably during the process.
Taking the time to plan your remodel carefully may not feel as exciting as picking paint colors or flooring, but it’s the part that sets you up for a smooth project — and saves you stress in the long run.
Interior Remodel Ideas
When most homeowners think about a split level home remodel, the first place they want to start is inside. After all, that’s where you spend most of your time. Interior updates not only make daily life easier but also add serious value to your home. Let’s break it down room by room.
Kitchens: Opening Up the Heart of the Home (split level home kitchen remodel)
One of the biggest complaints I hear from split level homeowners is that the kitchen feels closed off. Many older designs tucked the kitchen into a corner with walls separating it from the dining and living spaces.
- Open layouts: Removing or adjusting a wall can completely change how your kitchen feels. In many cases, replacing a full wall with a half-wall or opening up a pass-through creates flow without losing structure.
- Islands and breakfast bars: These are lifesavers in split level homes. They add storage, counter space, and a natural gathering spot. Even in a smaller kitchen, a well-placed island can make the space more functional.
- Cabinetry and layout updates: Swap out dated wood cabinets for clean, modern styles. Consider taller upper cabinets for extra storage and drawers instead of lower cupboards for easier access. Think of layout efficiency — every step you save while cooking makes life easier.
Living & Dining Rooms: Making Spaces Feel Connected
Split level living rooms often feel “choppy” because of short staircases and partitions. But with the right updates, you can turn them into open, inviting areas.
- Consistent flooring and paint: Carrying the same hardwood or luxury vinyl plank through living and dining areas instantly creates visual flow. Neutral wall colors also tie the spaces together and make them feel larger.
- Railings and pony walls: Many older split levels use heavy railings or partial walls that break up sightlines. Swapping them for modern metal railings, glass panels, or open pony walls creates a cleaner look and opens up views between levels.
- Natural light upgrades: Adding skylights or enlarging windows makes a huge difference. Split level living areas often sit between other levels, which can block light. Bringing in more daylight instantly modernizes the space.
Bedrooms & Bathrooms: Comfort Meets Function
Bedrooms in split level homes are usually cozy, but sometimes layouts can feel awkward. Bathrooms, especially in 1970s homes, are often cramped and outdated.
- Bathroom updates: A small bathroom remodel can pack a punch. Think walk-in showers with glass enclosures, updated vanities with storage, and brighter lighting to make the space feel bigger.
- Ceiling height and privacy: Some split levels have lower ceilings in certain bedrooms. Painting ceilings a lighter color, adding recessed lighting, and keeping window treatments simple can help these rooms feel more open.
- Storage hacks: Make use of every inch. Built-ins, under-stair storage, and custom closets turn awkward nooks into practical storage solutions. These small details often make the biggest difference in how comfortable your home feels.
Interior remodels are where you’ll see the biggest lifestyle improvements. Once the flow is better and the rooms feel brighter, your split level will no longer feel like it’s stuck in the past — it will feel like a home designed for today.
Exterior Remodel & Curb Appeal
When it comes to a split level home remodel, the outside matters just as much as the inside. Your home’s exterior is the first impression neighbors and guests see, and for many older split levels, that first impression could use a refresh. Luckily, exterior upgrades can completely transform the way your home looks and feels.
Façade Transformations (split level homes exterior remodel)
Many 1960s and 1970s split levels feature dark brick, dated wood siding, or mismatched materials. A façade remodel can bring your home into the present. Using a mix of modern siding, stone, or brick accents adds depth and character. Even simple changes, like painting existing brick or adding new shutters, can give your house a more balanced look.
Siding, Roofing, Trim & Doors
Fresh siding is often the single biggest change you can make. Vinyl, fiber cement, or wood-look materials in lighter, cleaner colors instantly brighten the home. Pair that with a new roof in a contrasting shade, updated trim, and a bold entry door, and your split level will suddenly look brand new. A front door with glass inserts or sidelights also makes the entry more inviting.
Landscaping to Highlight Multiple Levels
Because split levels sit at different heights, landscaping can either hide or highlight the home’s best features. Terraced garden beds, stone retaining walls, and low-maintenance plants can create flow from one level of the home to another. Adding outdoor lighting along walkways and stairs not only boosts safety but also shows off your home’s design at night.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Adding a front porch, deck, or back patio gives your home more usable space and makes it feel connected to the outdoors. Elevated decks work especially well with split levels, since they tie into upper floors naturally. A covered porch at the entryway also softens the boxy look that some older split levels have.
With the right exterior remodel, a split level home can go from dated to modern without losing its unique personality. And because curb appeal plays a big role in resale value, these upgrades often pay off both in looks and in investment.
Remodeling Vintage & 70’s Split Level Homes
If your split level home was built in the 1970s, chances are it carries plenty of character — and a fair share of challenges. From wood paneling and shag carpet to drafty windows and low ceilings, these homes often feel like a time capsule. The goal of remodeling isn’t to erase their charm but to blend retro character with modern comfort.
Preserving Retro Charm While Modernizing (remodeling a 70’s split level home)
One of the best parts of 70’s homes is their unique style. Exposed brick fireplaces, large picture windows, or mid-century wood details can still shine today if updated thoughtfully. Instead of ripping everything out, focus on balancing old and new. For example, keep a vintage stone fireplace but frame it with a sleek new mantel or modern built-ins.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Most 1970’s split levels were not built with today’s energy standards in mind. Remodeling is the perfect time to improve:
- Insulation: Adding attic and wall insulation helps cut heating and cooling costs.
- Windows: Replacing single-pane windows with double-pane or energy-efficient options brightens the home and reduces drafts.
- HVAC: Updating heating and cooling systems improves comfort and lowers utility bills.
These upgrades may not be flashy, but they make a big difference in long-term value and livability.
Flooring, Walls & Finishes
If your home still has orange carpet or dark wood paneling, it’s time for a refresh. Replacing old carpet with hardwood or luxury vinyl plank flooring instantly modernizes the space. Painted drywall or lighter wall finishes can open up rooms and make them feel brighter. Even small updates like modern light fixtures or hardware bring a fresh touch without changing the entire layout.
Bringing a 1970’s Home Into Today’s Design Trends
The key is respecting the original architecture while adapting it to current lifestyles. That might mean opening up the kitchen to the dining room, creating more natural light, or adding smart storage solutions. Today’s design trends focus on clean lines, open spaces, and natural materials — all of which can blend beautifully with a 70’s split level once it’s updated.
Before & After Inspirations
Sometimes the best way to understand the power of a remodel is to see it in action. Split level homes, in particular, offer some of the most dramatic before-and-after transformations. With the right updates, what once felt dated and closed-off can become bright, open, and welcoming.
Interior Transformations (split level home remodel before and after)
One common story I see is the dark, boxy kitchen that feels cut off from the rest of the house. In one remodel, removing a wall between the kitchen and dining room allowed natural light to flow freely. A small island was added for storage and seating, and suddenly the once-cramped kitchen became the heart of the home. The difference between “before” and “after” wasn’t just visual — it completely changed how the family used the space day to day.
Another case involved an outdated basement family room with wood paneling and low lighting. By painting the walls a lighter shade, installing recessed lighting, and adding built-in shelving, the space went from a dark cave to a cozy family hub.
Exterior Curb Appeal Examples
On the outside, I’ve seen split levels go from bland to beautiful with relatively simple changes. For one home, new horizontal siding in a modern color, updated trim, and a bold front door completely refreshed the façade. Landscaping was layered with low stone walls and terraced garden beds to highlight the split-level design instead of hiding it.
In another project, adding a front porch with clean lines softened the boxy shape of the house, giving it both charm and function. Paired with updated windows and roofing, the house looked almost unrecognizable compared to its original state.
Lessons Homeowners Learned
The biggest takeaway most homeowners share after their remodel is this: small changes add up. A single wall removal, a new color palette, or a few smart lighting upgrades can make a home feel like new without changing everything at once. Many also note the importance of planning — rushing through decisions often leads to regrets, while thoughtful choices create lasting results.
Expert Tips & Smart Advice
Over the years, I’ve learned that the most successful split level remodels aren’t always about huge additions or complete gut jobs. Often, it’s the smaller, thoughtful updates that make daily life easier and the home feel more inviting. Here are a few expert tips to keep in mind:
Bring in More Natural Light
Split level layouts sometimes block light because of short staircases and divided floors. To counter this, consider larger windows, skylights, or even glass-paneled doors. Even swapping heavy drapes for lighter treatments can brighten rooms instantly. Natural light doesn’t just make spaces look better — it makes them feel bigger.
Make Stairways Safer & More Stylish
Since stairs are such a central feature in split levels, don’t ignore them. Updating railings to sleek metal or glass instantly modernizes the look. Adding better lighting on stairways improves safety, and using non-slip treads or carpet runners keeps them family-friendly. A well-designed staircase can become an eye-catching focal point instead of just a way to get upstairs.
Keep Colors & Materials Consistent
Because split levels have many short levels and transitions, mismatched materials can make them feel busy. Try to carry consistent flooring across the main levels, and use a cohesive paint palette throughout. Even if you like accent colors, keeping trim, doors, and baseboards uniform ties the home together visually.
Use Awkward Spaces for Storage
Split level homes are full of nooks and crannies that often go unused. With a little creativity, those spots can become practical storage:
- Built-in shelving under staircases.
- Window seats with hidden compartments.
- Shallow closets converted into pantry space.
These tweaks help declutter rooms without sacrificing style.
Think About Long-Term Comfort
If you plan to stay in your home for many years, consider accessibility upgrades. Adding wider doorways, better lighting, and even stair lifts in some cases can make split level living easier as you age. Planning for the future during your remodel can save you from costly changes later.
Cost & Value Considerations
Talking about remodeling is exciting, but the numbers matter just as much. A split level home remodel can range widely in cost, depending on how big your plans are. The good news is, not every project has to break the bank — and some updates deliver more value than others.
Average Cost Ranges
- Interior remodels: Kitchens and bathrooms are usually the most expensive. A kitchen remodel in a split level home can run anywhere from $20,000 to $60,000+, depending on whether you’re updating finishes or fully reconfiguring the layout. Bathrooms typically range between $10,000 and $30,000. Living room and bedroom updates, like flooring and paint, are usually less but can still add up if you’re tackling multiple levels.
- Exterior remodels: New siding can cost between $12,000 and $30,000 depending on the material. Roofing usually falls between $8,000 and $20,000, and landscaping upgrades vary widely — from a few thousand for simple plantings to $15,000+ for retaining walls and patios.
Best Return on Investment (ROI)
Some projects not only improve how your home feels but also boost resale value:
- Kitchens and bathrooms almost always top the list for ROI. Buyers notice these first.
- Curb appeal upgrades — new siding, windows, or an updated front entry — can return as much as 70–80% of their cost when selling.
- Energy-efficient improvements like insulation and new windows may not be flashy, but they save money every month and are highly attractive to future buyers.
Budgeting Tips: Where to Spend vs Save
- Spend on structure and systems: Things like HVAC, insulation, or proper lighting may not seem glamorous, but they make the home more comfortable and efficient long-term.
- Save on finishes when possible: Instead of custom cabinets, consider semi-custom or stock options with upgraded hardware. Use luxury vinyl plank instead of hardwood in lower-level areas for the same look at a fraction of the cost.
- Phase your remodel: You don’t have to do everything at once. Tackling projects in stages makes the budget easier to manage without compromising your long-term vision.
Mistakes to Avoid
Remodeling a split level home can be rewarding, but it also comes with its own set of pitfalls. Over the years, I’ve seen homeowners run into the same problems again and again. Avoiding these common mistakes will save you stress, money, and regret later.
Over-Modernizing and Losing Character
It’s tempting to strip everything out and aim for a brand-new look, but part of what makes split levels special is their unique architecture. If you erase too much, you risk ending up with a generic space. The best remodels keep some of the home’s original personality — maybe it’s a mid-century fireplace, a unique staircase, or the split layout itself — while layering in modern updates.
Ignoring Structural Limits
Not every wall is safe to remove. Split levels often rely on load-bearing walls to handle the weight of multiple levels. Knocking one out without proper planning can create major safety issues. Always check with a structural engineer or contractor before altering walls or staircases.
Forgetting Natural Light and Ventilation
I’ve seen remodels that focused so much on finishes and furniture that they forgot about light and air. Without good natural light and proper airflow, even the prettiest remodel can feel heavy. Make windows, skylights, and ventilation part of your plan from the start.
Poor Project Planning and Budget Overruns
A remodel without a solid plan is a recipe for delays and unexpected costs. If you dive in without clear goals, a phased schedule, or a realistic budget, expenses can spiral quickly. Taking the time up front to plan saves you from nasty surprises mid-project.
Conclusion
A split level home remodel is more than just a facelift — it’s an investment in how you live every day. These homes may have been built decades ago, but with the right updates, they can feel just as stylish and functional as any modern build.
The key is to plan carefully, balancing your budget with your goals, and to choose upgrades that blend style with practicality. From opening up kitchens and brightening dark living areas to refreshing exteriors and adding outdoor spaces, every step makes your home more comfortable and more enjoyable. And when you look at real before-and-after transformations, it’s clear how powerful even a few thoughtful changes can be.
Remember, you don’t always need a full gut renovation. Small upgrades — new railings, consistent flooring, better lighting — can completely transform how your split level feels. Layer those changes over time, and you’ll end up with a home that works beautifully for your lifestyle without losing its character.
If you take inspiration from other remodels, keep your home’s personality in mind, and plan for both today and the future, your split level will reward you with charm, comfort, and lasting value.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional construction or legal advice. Remodeling projects vary depending on location, building codes, and individual home conditions. Always consult with licensed contractors, designers, or local authorities before starting any renovation work. The cost estimates provided are general guidelines and may differ based on materials, labor, and regional factors.
