Renology Editorial Team

Sarah Chen

Kitchens & Baths Editor

Sarah covers the rooms where homeowners spend the most per square foot. Her beat is kitchens and bathrooms across the Renology metros, with a particular focus on how material specs and finish-level decisions move budgets by 30 to 60 percent. She writes the way she shops — comparing slab options at the fabricator before she compares a fabricator to another fabricator.

Areas of Coverage

Kitchen remodels
Bathroom remodels
Material specs
Cabinet sourcing
Stone & tile selection

Magazine articles by Sarah

8 Deck Trends Defining 2026 Los Angeles Homes

The deck is no longer an afterthought. It's the second living room. We're breaking down the eight definitive deck and pergola trends shaping Los Angeles homes in 2026, from Mar Vista to Sherman Oaks.

The McLean Kitchen: Renovating for DC's Diplomatic-Class Entertaining

How a McLean, VA kitchen design holds up to State Department, World Bank, and embassy-level entertaining. The materials, flow, and decisions that matter.

Paradise Valley Bath Design: Where Desert Modernism Meets Old Arizona Money

How Paradise Valley, AZ bath design holds the line between desert modernism and old Arizona heritage. Materials, light, and what national designers get wrong.

Highland Park, Texas: When the Town Has Its Own Building Department

Highland Park, TX (75205, 75219) plays by its own permit rules. What a 1948 Beverly Drive bath teardown reveals about HP remodel reality.

8 Roof Replacement Trends Defining 2026 Denver Homes

From Class 4 impact-resistant shingles to smooth solar, we're breaking down the 8 definitive trends for Denver roofing in 2026. See what's defining the Mile High City's skyline.

Open Concept vs Defined Rooms: Which Way the 2026 Pendulum Is Swinging

Is the open floor plan's reign over? We explore the 2026 trend toward 'broken-plan' layouts that offer both connection and the privacy modern life demands.

8 ADU Trends Defining 2026 Portland Homes

The simple backyard cottage is over. In 2026, Portland ADUs are architecturally considered second homes, defined by all-electric systems, integrated design, and flexible, long-term living.

8 Bathroom Trends Defining 2026 Seattle Homes

The sterile, all-white bathroom is officially over. Discover the 8 key trends defining Seattle bathrooms in 2026, from curbless wet rooms to statement stone and warm wood vanities.

8 Kitchen Trends Defining 2026 San Francisco Homes

The all-white kitchen is over. For 2026, San Francisco kitchens are defined by rift-cut oak, honed stone, and color drenching for a layered, lived-in luxury.

What Is Up With HVAC Pricing? The Real Markup

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on HVAC replacement costs, breaking down the real numbers, the common misconceptions, and the key questions that will save you thousands.

8 Outdoor Kitchen Trends Defining 2026 San Diego Homes

The era of the lonely grill is over. We're exploring the eight definitive trends for San Diego outdoor kitchens in 2026, from weatherproof luxury cabinetry to integrated refrigeration.

8 Pool Trends Defining 2026 Los Angeles Homes

The era of the bright blue, kidney-shaped pool is over. For 2026, Los Angeles pools are defined by dark, moody finishes, expansive social Baja shelves, and natural stone.

Cost guides Sarah contributes to

Renology cost guides for Sarah's coverage areas across California and the Pacific Northwest.

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