What does remodelling mean?
Remodelling means changing the structure, appearance, or internal arrangement of an existing building or object rather than constructing something completely from scratch. It is especially common in relation to homes, kitchens, bathrooms, offices, and other interiors, but it can also describe alterations to vehicles and other constructed objects. The word often implies substantial work rather than minor repairs: remodelling a kitchen may involve changing its layout, cabinetry, flooring, plumbing, or electrical systems, though the precise scope depends on the project. As a noun, remodelling denotes the process or industry and is normally treated as an uncountable activity. British English uses the spelling remodelling, while American English uses remodeling. In everyday use, the term can carry a more general sense of transforming something to a newer or improved condition, although it remains particularly associated with construction and interior design.
To change the structure, design, or appearance of an existing building, room, vehicle, or other object.
"The developers are remodelling the building to create modern offices."
Common in British and American English, with the usual spelling difference of remodelling versus remodeling.
The process or business of changing the structure, design, or appearance of an existing property or object.
"The remodelling of the apartment took several months."
Rarely used; remodelling is normally uncountable when referring to the activity or industry.
"The two remodellings were completed by the same contractor."
A remodel can change a room, but its most dramatic transformation is often hiding inside the walls.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does remodelling come from?
Remodel developed from re-, meaning 'again', and model, so its original sense was roughly 'to model again'. It later came to mean changing the design or structure of an existing object. Model entered English through French from the Latin modulus, a diminutive of modius, a unit of measure, reflecting the long history of the word in the senses of a pattern, standard, or small architectural representation.
Related word forms
How remodelling is actually used
In British English, the standard spelling uses two l's: remodelling. American English normally uses one l: remodeling. The term is broad but is especially common for substantial alterations to buildings and interiors; refurbishing may suggest repair and renewal, while redesigning emphasizes changing the design.
Easily confused with remodelling
Remodelling means changing the structure or appearance of an existing thing, whereas modelling means making or working with a representation of something.