Renovations aren't restricted to a time of year, you're either wrapping up one that started in the Spring or you're thinking of one you want to take on before the fall/winter holidays. We took some time to sit down with Keith Bynum of HGTV's Bargain Block who knows about the power of changing things up in your home. We wanted to find out how he got into this career, becoming a TV personality, his partnership with American Standard, a giveaway they have which can take your home to the next level, and what we should keep in mind when we begin thinking about upgrading our home!
ATHLEISURE MAG: What led you to working in home renovation and design?
KEITH BYNUM: Both of my parents were teachers, and each year we expanded our home, which sparked my passion for home improvement projects from a young age. As I got older, I discovered a deeper interest in the home renovation space.
AM: How did your work in this area bring you to HGTV?
KB: I was featured on an episode of Tiny House Paradise back in Colorado. After that, I heard from an interested producer, but it was a few years later before I really considered the idea of a show. By then we had moved to Detroit and started flipping homes here, so that’s how the idea for Bargain Block became a reality.
AM: What do you enjoy renovating?
KB: Everything! I love a challenge, whether it’s improving a floor plan for more functional living or a design challenge that turns a house into a home. Right now, we are doing some really fun client projects that have some beautiful custom millwork. I always enjoy working with wood and natural products, they just bring so much warmth to a space, and I can really maximize the space with custom build outs.
AM: When it comes to renovating, is there a checklist or things that should be kept in mind when you're thinking about taking on this journey?
KB: When it comes to renovating, I always recommend starting by thinking about how you actually live in the space day to day. Does the layout make sense? Do your fixtures support your lifestyle? The best designs don’t just look good—they work hard for you and your family.
Budget is obviously a very important element, as well. You want to have a plan in place before you begin so that you take on the right scope of work to fit both your needs and your budget.
From there, focus on timeless elements that balance both form and function. For me, it’s not about chasing trends–it’s about choosing pieces that will stand the test of time. That’s why I turn to trusted brands like American Standard. Their products are designed with real life in mind—especially for busy households that want spaces to be both beautiful and built to last.
AM: What are things to avoid when you are in the renovation process?
KB: Scope creep is really common but can sideline a project if you take on too much. Try to define what the project is and stick to that scope of work. So much of a good design is in the details and quality and taking on too much will compromise those elements.
AM: We spend a lot of time in our kitchens and bathrooms, what are elements that are worth spending more money on and what can be items that we can spend less of our budget on while still making a maximum impact?
KB: We spend so much time in our kitchens and bathrooms, and these are the rooms that work the hardest in a home. That’s why I always say: you don’t need a full renovation to make a big impact. Small, thoughtful upgrades can go a long way. A fresh coat of paint, peel-and-stick wallpaper, or swapping out hardware and fixtures can instantly elevate the space without blowing your budget.
That said, there are a few areas where it is worth spending a little more. In the bathroom, people often overlook the toilet—but it’s something you use every single day. The Champion Toilet from American Standard is one of my go-tos because it’s powerful, reliable, and virtually clog-free, so you never have to worry about a surprise clog disrupting your routine. It’s one of those upgrades you’ll appreciate more than you’d expect.
In the kitchen, I recommend investing in a high-quality faucet. The American Standard Studio S Dual-Spray Kitchen Faucet is one of my favorites—it combines sleek design with functionality which is perfect for busy households and keeps things cleaner, especially when you're cooking. It’s a game-changer you’ll use constantly.
So, splurge where it counts—on the pieces you interact with every day—and be creative with the rest. That’s how you get the most impact for your investment.
AM: We also spend significant time in our home office. What are some tips that you have in making this space one that we want to work from?
KB: I love designing home offices that have a ton of natural light and warm elements like moody paint colors, built in desks and shelving, and thoughtful storage. An office that’s warm and inviting (and tidy) is the perfect inspiration to get to work!
AM: You have partnered with American Standard - why is this synergistic and what does this partnership look like?
KB: In my work, I focus on creating stylish
ish and convenient spaces that reflect real-life needs – and that is exactly what American Standard has been doing for 150 years. Their high-quality fixtures make it so simple to integrate personality and functionality into any home.
As a home renovation expert, I know how tough it can be to achieve the dream of homeownership and American Standard does too. In recognition of the obstacles that can stand in the way of home ownership, and as a token of appreciation to those who have turned to American Standard, the brand introduced the 150th Down Payment Contest – where a total of $150K will be awarded in down payment assistance to help 10 individuals take the next step toward homeownership. Visit americanstandard.dja.com/story to learn more on how to enter!
AM: What are some upcoming projects that you can tell us about?
KB: I’m excited to be teaming up with American Standard to celebrate their 150th anniversary. As part of the celebration, they’ve launched the 150th Down Payment Contest, offering $150,000 in assistance to help 10 individuals take the next step toward homeownership—an initiative I’m incredibly proud to support.
No announcements for Bargain Block right now but keep on the lookout!
Follow me on Instagram to keep up with all that is happening, HERE, and check out all the details on the American Standard giveaway at americanstandard-us.com.
IG @keithbynum_
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Keith Bynum
Read the MAY ISSUE #113 of Athleisure Mag and see RENO TIME | Keith Bynum in mag.
