Double Wide Renovation Ideas for Modern Living
Posted on September 15, 2025
So, double wides. First off, can we just admit that double wides get way less credit than they deserve? Like, people hear “mobile home” and instantly picture old paneling, saggy carpet, and maybe a broken porch step. But a double wide has so much potential. It’s literally twice the space of a single wide (duh), which means twice the creativity. 😎 With some updates? Man, you can make a double wide look like a farmhouse, a beach house, or even one of those modern minimalist spots you see on Instagram. Seriously. Let’s get into some ideas to make your double wide a total vibe. Start budgeting with our Mobile Trailer Home Renovation Estimator.
Why Renovate a Double Wide?
Double wides are basically a blank canvas with tons of potential. Here’s why it’s worth the effort:
- Space to work with: You’ve got wide living areas instead of the long “hallway” feel of a single wide.
- Affordable: Even with renovations, it’s usually way cheaper than a stick-built house.
- Customization: You’re not stuck with builder-grade.
- Resale: Buyers love seeing updated mobile homes — it sets yours apart.
Want to see if it’s worth the investment? Use our ROI Calculator to check potential resale value.
Ideas That Actually Work (and Won’t Make You Broke)
Double wides have the space to go big, but you don’t need a huge budget. Here are some game-changers:
1. Open Floor Plan Vibes
Many double wides already feel roomy, but if you remove a non-load-bearing wall or just widen a doorway, it feels even more open. Kitchens + living rooms connected = chef’s kiss. Always check with a pro before knocking down walls to avoid structural oopsies. Plan it out with our DIY Home Renovation Project Planner.
2. Kitchen Upgrades
The kitchen is the heart of the home, even in a double wide. Try these:
- Paint or replace cabinets.
- Add a big island (storage + style).
- Swap laminate for butcher block counters (cheap + pretty).
- Modern backsplash (peel-and-stick if you’re on a budget).
Budget your kitchen reno with our Kitchen Remodel Cost Planner.
3. Cozy Living Room Makeover
Double wides often have huge living rooms. Use it! Add a statement fireplace (electric ones are easy), floating shelves, or even shiplap accent walls. Check our Painting Cost Calculator for wall upgrade costs.
4. Flooring Glow-Up
Carpet everywhere = nope. Vinyl plank, laminate, or engineered hardwood makes the whole space feel more like a “real house.” See our Vinyl Plank Flooring Cost Guide, Laminate Flooring Cost and Installation Tips, or DIY Flooring Ideas for inspiration.
5. Master Bedroom Retreat
Take advantage of that space! Add barn doors to closets, update the lighting, or even build a little reading nook by a window. Budget your bedroom upgrades with our Bedroom Remodel Calculator.
6. Bathroom Spa Goals
Double wides sometimes come with surprisingly big bathrooms. Update them with:
- Freestanding tub (if you’re fancy).
- New vanity.
- Bright lighting (seriously, ditch those yellow bulbs).
Get a cost estimate with our Bathroom Renovation Quote Estimator.
7. Exterior Fixes
Curb appeal matters. Fresh skirting, new paint or siding, shutters, and maybe a small porch. Boom, whole home looks brand new. Plan your project timeline with our Timeline Project Scheduler.
Cost Example (1,400 sq ft Double Wide Reno)
Project | DIY Cost | Pro Cost |
---|---|---|
Interior paint | $500 | $2,000 |
Flooring (vinyl plank) | $2,200 | $5,500 |
Kitchen upgrade | $1,500 | $8,000 |
Bathroom remodel | $2,000 | $7,500 |
Exterior improvements | $1,500 | $6,000 |
Total | ~$7,700 | ~$29,000 |
So yeah… big difference. Get a detailed estimate with our Mobile Trailer Home Renovation Estimator or Mobile Home Remodel Cost Breakdown.
Random Cheap Fixes That Look Fancy
These small tweaks make a big impact:
- Swap out all light fixtures. Seriously, $30 fixtures from Home Depot change everything.
- Replace all door handles with black or brushed nickel. Small detail, huge vibe.
- Add crown molding (yes, even in a double wide).
- Big mirrors in bathrooms = instant hotel feel.
Need financing for these upgrades? Check our Renovation Loan Financing Calculator or Home Renovation Financing Options.
Personal Story (Because Why Not)
My cousin bought a double wide that looked like it was straight outta 1993 — mauve carpet, floral wallpaper, the works. She painted the walls white, ripped up the carpet, and laid down gray laminate flooring. Then she built a fake fireplace with an electric insert. I swear, it looked like a totally different house. People who came over literally said, “Wait, this is a mobile home??” Meanwhile, I once tried to “update” a double wide bathroom by just painting the vanity. I accidentally used flat wall paint instead of cabinet paint. Peeled right off after a week. Lesson learned: use the right paint.
Things People Always Forget
Don’t skip these:
- Ceiling fans. Old ones scream “90s trailer park.” Swap for sleek fans or modern lights.
- Trim and baseboards. New trim = crisp look.
- Storage hacks. Floating shelves, under-bed storage, built-ins — all lifesavers.
- Color schemes. Light + neutral colors make spaces feel bigger.
More budget tips? See our Mobile Home Renovation Ideas on a Budget.
Pros & Cons of Double Wide Renovation
Pros:
- Big impact with basic updates.
- You can make it look high-end without spending crazy money.
- Tons of layout flexibility.
Cons:
- Still limited by original structure.
- Can be expensive if you try to go full luxury.
- People sometimes judge mobile homes (but hey, ignore ‘em).
For electrical upgrades, use our Electrical Wiring Cost Tool.
Random Thoughts While Writing
Why do most double wides come with ceiling vents that look like they belong in a spaceship? Double wides honestly have better layouts than some apartments I’ve seen. If I had a double wide, I’d 100% go full modern farmhouse vibe. White walls, black fixtures, cozy wood floors. Done.
FAQ: Double Wide Reno Questions (Kid-Style)
Yup. Floors, paint, exterior upgrades — people won’t even know it’s a mobile home. Try our Mobile Trailer Home Renovation Estimator.
For sure. Especially if you’re living there long-term. You’ll enjoy it AND increase resale value. Use our ROI Calculator.
Paint + flooring. Seriously, those two alone make it feel brand new. Check our Painting Cost Calculator.
Some, yes. But check structure first. Don’t just start swinging a hammer. Plan with our DIY Home Renovation Project Planner.
Vinyl plank. Looks good, waterproof, and durable. See our Vinyl Plank Flooring Cost Guide.
100%. Fresh skirting and paint make people go “wow” before they even step inside. Schedule it with our Timeline Project Scheduler.