Your Bronx Renovation Guide: Contractors, Cost, and Local Inspiration

From single-family row houses and pre-war co-ops of Pelham Bay to modern high-rise South Bronx condos, the Bronx is a borough defined by diversity offered by the architecture and the people who fill the neighborhood.. Each renovation reflects not only a homeowner’s vision for their space, but the unique demands and quirks of Bronx living—whether it’s planning the logistics in a multi-unit building, working within the footprint of a historic apartment, or breathing new life into a classic brick home. If you're considering a Bronx remodel, understanding these local nuances and the true cost of construction will help bring your project to life, right from the start.

Block Renovation: Your source to finding the best Bronx contractors

Block Renovation is built to remove the uncertainty from home remodeling. Bronx homeowners can use our platform to plan, visualize, and estimate their renovation before reaching out to a contractor. After exploring options and costs, you’re matched with licensed, vetted contractors—each with a proven reputation in the Bronx and nearby neighborhoods. Alongside the right contractor, you also get support from a Renovation Consultant, who guides you from scope and design through construction and completion.

Get matched with Block-vetted Bronx contractors

Mark

MRCR DBA Quality Contracting 4.5

Ion

Art Deco Enterprises 4.6

Alberto

XP Contractors Inc 5.0

Isli

SABI Construction USA Inc 5.0

Sanuar

A Better Plus Construction Inc 4.6

Sara and Ernesto

American Precision Developers LLC 4.8

Mladen

Petarson Renovations 5.0

Elias

Big Foot Contracting 4.5

Steven

Terranova Construction 5.0

Gad

Golden State Designs 4.9

Leonardo

Andes Project Contractor Corporation 4.5

Juan

Fancy Construction 4.9

Joseph and Anca

QB Construction Inc 5.0

Piotr

Peter Renovations Inc 4.8

Harold

AAA Construction Services, LLC 5.0

Find Contractors

Budgeting for the costs of Bronx home renovations

Renovating in the Bronx is a major investment, with most projects ranging from $236 to $346 per square foot—noticeably higher than the national average of $198 to $307. These higher costs result from increased labor rates, steeper permitting fees, and the added complexity of city living, such as debris removal from top-floor condos or the logistics of moving materials through busy apartment buildings. Even smaller projects often reflect these realities, which is why concrete planning is key.

So what does this mean for Bronx homeowners? Renovating a small 40-square-foot bathroom could cost between $9,500 and $13,800, depending on features and finishes. An average-size 120-square-foot Bronx kitchen can start at $28,000 and go up to $41,500 or more. However, the actual costs will vary depending on your residence.

That’s where Renovation Studio makes a difference. This free tool from Block Renovation offers Bronx homeowners a quick, localized estimate for their home remodel—before you ever connect with a contractor. See how layout changes influence price, compare material choices, and prioritize features that matter most, all in one simple dashboard.

Guidance for remodeling your Bronx home

When Bronx remodeling projects require a permit

Renovations in the Bronx often require Department of Buildings (DOB) permits, particularly for any work that modifies your home’s structure, layout, or utilities. Projects that call for new rooms, moving walls, or changes to plumbing or electrical almost always need formal sign-off—especially in condos and co-ops. Paint, fixture swaps, or cosmetic updates usually don’t require a permit, but building management or co-op boards may have their own requirements. 

The best way to avoid surprises? Collaborate with a contractor who is especially familiar with remodeling Bronx homes like yours. Not only will they file any paperwork on your behalf, but they’ll be able to pull from lived experiences about what kind of design changes can complicate timelines and approval processes. 

Tips for remodeling Bronx homes with shared walls

With so many apartments, row homes, and co-ops throughout the Bronx, shared walls are part of daily life for countless homeowners. Renovating in these settings usually means navigating building policies, neighbor considerations, and logistical details unique to city living. Here are a few ways to make the process smoother:

• Give neighbors a heads-up about your renovation timeline to help the project run smoothly.
• Coordinate with your contractor for thoughtful debris removal and material delivery—avoid blocking hallways or elevators.
• Use underlayment or sound-dampening materials when updating floors and walls to reduce noise transfer.
• Review building rules about work hours and renovations.
• For attached homes, clarify responsibility for shared walls before starting any work.

Renovating for Bronx renters? Here’s what to prioritize

With such a vibrant rental market in the Bronx—ranging from walk-ups to high-rise apartments—thoughtful renovations deliver value to both landlords seeking stable returns and tenants looking for comfort, functionality, and style. Today’s Bronx renters increasingly look for features that make life easier, cozier, and more organized in an urban setting. If you’re a landlord and your property is used as a rental, consider the following adjustments during the renovation process.

• City-friendly features: Include convenient package storage and a designated space for bikes and strollers. These amenities make daily routines simpler and reflect what many Bronx residents value in city living.
• Install double-pane windows: Upgrading to double-pane windows helps reduce city noise and improves insulation, while also helping to keep out dust and pollution out, leading to a quieter, more comfortable, and healthier apartment.
• Prioritize durability: Select finishes and fixtures that can withstand busy households and multiple turnovers, such as high-quality vinyl flooring, solid-surface countertops, and easy-to-clean tile.
• Maximize storage: Built-in shelving, tall cabinetry, and clever closet systems help renters manage life in smaller spaces, making every available inch count.
• Plan flexible layouts: Open-concept living spaces, partition options, or rooms that adapt as offices or guest rooms can attract tenants with evolving needs.
• Opt for neutral palettes: Light, neutral colors and modern finishes appeal to a wide variety of tastes and create a fresh, move-in-ready feeling for new residents.
• Upgrade for efficiency: Install LED lighting, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and Energy Star appliances to keep utility costs in check and appeal to eco-conscious renters.
• Optimize layouts: Consider reworking the space to improve flow; combining a kitchen and living area or adding a breakfast bar can make a small apartment feel larger and more welcoming.
• Urban-friendly features: Include no-contact smart locks, package storage, and easy-to-clean entryways. New Yorkers will appreciate these daily conveniences and security measures.

Bronx kitchen renovations to inspire your own

Bronx homeowners renovate their kitchens for so many reasons—maybe it’s to open up a galley, brighten up a windowless corner, or just bring a tired space into the present. Whatever your goal, even modest layout and material changes can deliver a kitchen that feels custom-tailored to the way you live. See real-world examples of New York kitchens remodeled with Block’s help. 

A Bronx kitchen revitalized through color

One galley kitchen was brought to life with budget-friendly yet powerful upgrades: cabinet refacing, classic subway tile, and new flooring. Instead of a total overhaul, the homeowner injected energy with mint green cabinets and playful decor, keeping the existing layout intact. The result is a kitchen that feels fresh, approachable, and uniquely Bronx.

See this Bronx kitchen remodeled kitchen

Maximize a small footprint  through smart remodeling

A compact kitchen doesn’t have to feel cramped. With right-sized cabinets and appliances, this space now has room for decorative touches and even a half-wall, opening up sight lines and making small-scale entertaining possible. This New York remodel proves that good planning can help every inch work harder.

Find inspiration from this New York kitchen

New York bathroom renovations to inspire your own

In the Bronx, bathrooms often need to be both beautiful and incredibly practical, especially in apartments that rarely have spare square footage. Still, the right updates can make these hardworking spaces something special, as proven with these New York bathroom remodeling projects.

A bathroom becomes bold

A once-forgettable bath took on new life with a black and white color scheme and modern fixtures, replacing the old tub with a glass-partitioned shower. These changes made the bathroom feel sharper and noticeably larger, all without claiming extra floor space. The result is an aesthetic that stands out for all the right reasons.

Check out this New York bathroom

Clean subway tile and wood-like panels bring serenity

Thoughtful design is especially impactful in smaller spaces. This bathroom combines compact fixtures and a eye-catching shower with built-in storage. A medicine cabinet and shower niche keep things organized and clutter-free. Simple subway tiles and wood-like wall panels make the room both soothing and quietly sophisticated.

View this calming bathroom from all angles

Block Renovation – your partner in a successful renovation

Block helps Bronx homeowners match with the right contractor for their unique home—whether it’s a row house, a classic apartment, or a modern condo. Yet we also do so much more than just contractor coordination. 

Our Renovation Consultants guide you from budgeting and design through every stage of your renovation. If you want extra support bringing your style to life, Block also offers access to professional designers. You get clear pricing, a secure payment system, and peace of mind thanks to our one-year workmanship warranty. In short, you’ll have the guidance and protection you need to make your Bronx renovation a success.

Remodel with confidence through Block

Connect to vetted local contractors

We only work with top-tier, thoroughly vetted contractors

Get expert guidance

Our renovation consultants offer expert advice, scope review, and ongoing support as needed

Enjoy peace of mind throughout your renovation

Secure payment system puts you in control and protects your remodel

Get Started