Inklingo

How to Say "to remodel" in Spanish

English → Spanish

reformar

/rreh-for-MAR//refoɾˈmaɾ/

verbB1physical spaces
Use 'reformar' when the remodeling involves significant structural changes or a substantial overhaul of a physical space.
A room with fresh bright paint on one wall and a person holding a paint roller.

Examples

Vamos a reformar la casa entera, incluyendo la cocina y los baños.

We are going to remodel the entire house, including the kitchen and bathrooms.

Queremos reformar la cocina el próximo verano.

We want to renovate the kitchen next summer.

Han reformado el viejo teatro y ahora es un centro cultural.

They have remodeled the old theater and now it is a cultural center.

Es más barato reformar esta casa que comprar una nueva.

It is cheaper to renovate this house than to buy a new one.

Regular Pattern

This verb follows the standard rules for all verbs ending in -ar. No surprise spelling changes here!

Reformar vs. Renovar

Mistake: “Using 'renovar' when you mean you are knocking down walls.”

Correction: Use 'reformar' for structural or physical changes to a building; use 'renovar' for things like renewing a passport or giving something a fresh look without construction.

renovar

/reh-noh-BAR//renoˈbaɾ/

verbB1interiors and spaces
Choose 'renovar' when the remodeling focuses on updating or refreshing the interior of a space, such as changing paint, fixtures, or furniture.
A person painting a worn wooden wall with a bright, fresh coat of blue paint.

Examples

Queremos renovar la sala de estar con muebles nuevos y una mano de pintura.

We want to renovate the living room with new furniture and a coat of paint.

Vamos a renovar la cocina este verano.

We are going to renovate the kitchen this summer.

La oficina necesita renovar sus equipos informáticos.

The office needs to replace its computer equipment.

Han renovado todo el mobiliario del hotel.

They have replaced all the furniture in the hotel.

Renovar vs Reformar

In Spain, 'reformar' is often used for structural changes in a house, while 'renovar' focuses on making things look new or modern again.

Confusing with 'Remodel'

Mistake: “Voy a remodelar mi cuarto.”

Correction: While 'remodelar' exists, 'renovar' or 'reformar' are much more common in natural Spanish for home projects.

Choosing Between Reformar and Renovar

The most common mistake is using 'reformar' when only minor updates are intended. Remember, 'reformar' implies bigger, structural work, while 'renovar' is for refreshing and updating the look or basic function.

Related Translations

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