noun

renovation

/ˌrɛnəˈveɪʃən/ · say it: ren·uh·VAY·shuhn

restoring or updating a building's condition

In Architecture & Design

In more detail

1. (noun) the process of repairing and improving a building or room to make it look new again

2. (noun) the act of giving new life or energy to something that has become tired or weak

Examples

1. The house needed a complete renovation after years of neglect.
2. The company is undergoing a renovation of its business strategy.

How to use renovation

Renovation is used primarily for buildings, rooms, or furniture that need repair and updating to restore them to good condition or modern standards. While it can apply metaphorically to organizations or systems needing revival, the physical/architectural sense is dominant. It differs from repair by implying more comprehensive improvement rather than simple fixing.

Common phrases

undergo renovation
require renovation
home renovation
kitchen renovation
renovation project
complete a renovation

Synonyms

restoration · refurbishment · overhaul · modernization · rehabilitation

Opposites

neglect · deterioration · decay

Word family

renovate (verb) · renovated (adjective) · renovator (noun)

A common mistake

Learners often use 'renovation' for minor repairs or fixes when 'repair' or 'maintenance' would be more accurate; renovation implies substantial improvement and often significant investment.

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