Homeowners want bigger kitchens

Do you desire a larger kitchen? Are you looking for a smaller home? Larger home? What are some of the non-negotiable items you are looking for? A recent survey conducted by RICKI, the Research Institute for Cooking and Kitchen Intelligence, found that 59 percent of the people they surveyed would look for a larger kitchen if they moved to a new home. They would also be willing to sacrifice square footage in the family room and then master bedroom if it meant gaining a larger kitchen.

 

            Interestingly enough, only one out of four homeowners say they would be looking for a smaller home if they were buying today. But only 4% of those said they would want a smaller kitchen. Nearly two-thirds of the surveyed homeowners and three-quarters of those under the age of 45 want a larger kitchen. Those are pretty large percentages where most people’s perception is that everyone is looking for something smaller.

 

            Before you give up on your dream of a larger kitchen because people are telling you everyone is going smaller, reconsider and know that kitchen truly is the heart of the home. A larger space will make you and your family happier.           

The "new" neutral

In years past, the go to neutral color has been a shade of beige. With brown, pink or yellow undertones, a version of this color was seen on many home walls throughout the world. It was easy to decorate around and seemed to work with almost any color.

 

Welcome to 2012! Gray is now considered the “new” neutral. With undertones of blue, green, purple or brown, the crisp gray is showing up everywhere. From dark to light, gray is being used in kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. Whether in the wall color, cabinet color, bedding or accessories, grey is a fresh neutral alternative. The use of gray by designers has jumped from 9 percent in 2010 to almost 40 percent in 2012. Gray makes a great statement without yelling and works well with the classic black or white.

 

Not sure how you can incorporate some gray into your life and home? Try a color on your powder room walls. Drop the pink nail polish and go for a steel gray this winter. Create a new look in your bedroom by getting new bedding in gray tones. Freshen up your drapes by going with a gray silk. Vary your wardrobe with some gray tights. Not sure how to add gray to your life? Simply search “gray” on houzz.com or pinterest.com for many great ideas.

Color Trends

            I recently had the opportunity to attend a color trends presentation by Benjamin Moore. They have an incredible team of researchers who spend countless hours pulling information, attending shows and talking with designers to determine what the color trends for the future will be. Here are their predictions for the upcoming color trends.

 

Eco Trend: Flora and fauna, water and sky, moss and rock. Nature’s elements unite in a style-savvy look that transcends is organic roots. Refreshing white and blue balance the palette, offering a calm, relaxing respite from the busy world.

 

Casual Glam Trend: Mix it up! This diverse palette offers a clean, tailored look that works well with any decore. A blend of carefree with chic, cool with warm, the effect is fresh and very enticing.

 

Urban Trend: Well-seasoned hues offer a refined perspective. Rich espresso blends naturally with smooth stone and soft graphite tones. A cool amethyst lends added depth, while a hint of spice provides the perfect “kick” that wakes up the room.

 

Heritage Trend: Timeless hues-epic, yet completely modern. Restrained gray, aged blue and red clay pair beautifully with rich cream and antique white. Sensibly appointed, they make an established home feel contemporary…and a new one a little more worldly.

 

Many thanks to Benjamin Moore for their work and for sharing the information. Whether you are creating a new space or just trying to pull together your existing space, use this cutting edge information and you are sure to hit a home run. You can view more details on their website at www.benjaminmoore.com/colortrends

 

Surviving a Kitchen Remodel: Part 5

Over the past weeks we have explored some of the items that can help make a kitchen remodel survivable. In our last segment, we will explore possibly the most important element, how to keep the peace. Kitchen remodels are hard enough without adding additional drama. We discussed relationships with your family in Part 1, but here are a few tips for dealing with your neighbors and the construction workers.

 

• Keep your neighbors in the loop. Keep them appraised of your start date, approximate completion date, what work will be done and if any worker may need to come onto their property. Be sure to communicate any unforeseen delays.
• Make sure power tools are only used during normal business hours. Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nothing will ruin your neighborly relationship more than waking their baby early in the morning.
• Ask subcontractors to park in front of your house only, if possible. If additional parking space is needed, be sure to get the ok from your neighbors for their street parking space.
• Keep the exterior of the house neat. Nobody likes an eyesore and construction sites can quickly become that if the trash is not corralled.
• Coffee and donuts, cookies and Cokes. These small gestures will go a long way in building morale with construction workers and really don’t cost a whole lot. A good attitude from them will only ensure that your job will be completed with quality and in a timely fashion.

Surviving a Kitchen Remodel: Part 4

            Of all the things we have discussed about what to expect and prepare for when remodeling your kitchen, how to keep things clean is probably the biggest issue. It is amazing the amount of dust and dirt that can collect during a remodel project. You can’t keep everything spotless, but you can prepare and avoid the worst. Here are a few tips:

 

• Protect what you can’t move. Hang plastic in doorways and seal tightly with tape. Protect your floors by putting down thick rosin or kraft paper. You may even want to consider throwing plastic or blankets over tables and bookcases in adjacent rooms to protect them from the fine dust that may escape from the work zone.
• Turn off the heat or air while dusty work is being done. Example: sheetrock work, sanding wood floors, cutting trim…
• Ask that the work zone be swept at the end of each day to minimize the mess and stress.
• It is helpful to prepare a storage area in the garage or adjacent room for holding appliances, cabinets, tile and other items until it is time to install them.
• Rent an open top dumpster to be placed near the construction site. This will provide a handy place for the construction crew to dispose of their trash. If there is extra room in it when the project is complete, it is also a great way to get rid of items you’ve been meaning to without having to haul them to the landfill.
• Ask that all lumber and materials be placed on paved surfaces such as a patio, driveway or carport instead of your yard to prevent killing or tearing up the grass and landscaping.
• If avoiding the grass is not an option, consider laying down temporary plywood sidewalks. They distribute the weight and will prevent ruts in your grass.

            Over the next couple of weeks, we will explore other aspects of a kitchen remodel and what you can do to keep it from being a stressful situation. If you have a question that you would like answered, email me at Jessica@webbercoleman.com

Surviving a Kitchen Remodel: Part 3

            Last week we discussed how to set up a temporary kitchen while remodeling. This week we will focus on how to practically pack up your kitchen and be prepared to live without it for a couple of weeks. It’s the great balance of what you can and can’t live without. Here are a few tips:

 

• Gather as many clean, sturdy boxes as you may need. Plastic Rubbermaid containers work well for your more fragile items. Always get more than you think you will need. Newspaper and bubble wrap are a must.
• Have a good sharpie handy to be able to clearly mark each box.
• Place items you think you may need near the top of the box, in case you need to access it.
• Begin packing sooner than you think you need to. It invariably takes longer than expected and you will have to set up your temporary kitchen.
• Place packed boxes in an air conditioned space like a spare bedroom, basement or bonus room. Resist the urge to keep it all in your living space. You will survive the remodel process better if your main living space is clutter free.
• Remember to remove fragile items hanging on or near the walls opposite your remodeled space. Construction banging and vibrations could damage these items.

 
            Over the next couple of weeks, we will explore other aspects of a kitchen remodel and what you can do to keep it from being a stressful situation.

Surviving a Kitchen Remodel: Part 2

            Last week we discussed setting expectations when beginning a kitchen remodel. This week we will focus on a more practical side- how you are going to eat. Setting up a temporary kitchen is important. The idea of eating out for every meal may sound glamorous now, but it will get old quickly. Here are a few tips:

 

         Keep essential items in a convenient location. Paper plates, cups, napkins and plastic utensils; cereal; paper towels; garbage bags; coffee; dishcloths; soap; microwaveable meals. Everything else can be packed away but you will need these items in a handy location.

 

• Plan to wash dirty dishes in another sink or bathtub. Or better yet, use all disposable dishes and utensils.
• Move your old refrigerator out of the kitchen remodel space or get a mini-fridge. Position this near a water source. Add a table with a microwave, toaster oven and trash can and you are set up.
• Wherever you set up your temporary kitchen, probably was not wired for multiple appliances to be used at the same time. You may blow a fuse a time or two before you figure out which appliances can be used at the same time.

             Over the next couple of weeks, we will explore the different aspects of a kitchen remodel and what you can do to keep it from being a stressful situation.

Surviving a Kitchen Remodel: Part 1

            Let’s face it. Kitchen remodels can be stressful. Regardless of how much planning or positive thinking you employ, it is bound to be a difficult time. Now don’t get me wrong. I am all for expecting the best and anticipating everything will go smoothly. But having helped remodel over 800 kitchens over the course of my career, I know that that doesn’t always happen. Tempers can flare and overwhelming stress reveals itself in your relationships with your spouse, kids and pets.

 

            The best way to enter a kitchen remodeling project is to properly manage your expectations. You can expect Murphy’s Law to be in full effect. Everything that has the possibility of going wrong can go wrong, even things outside of the scope of the kitchen project. Busted gas lines aside, here are a couple of potential problems you could expect.

 

• Miscommunication
• More dust than you expected
• Products delivered late, dented or missing parts
• The wrong items delivered
• Termites in the walls or floors
• Mold or moisture in the walls or floor
• Structural problems that need to be repaired
• Asbestos or lead paint removal

 

            You can avoid some of these items by asking as many questions and clarifying issues as they come up. Remind yourself that arguments with your family members are most likely stress related and not personal. Sometimes there is no real issue, it is simply an occasion when everyone is testy and the circumstances cannot really be changed. Steer away from an emotional decision. Focus on your priorities, timeline, best use of space and reasons for your design preference. Have kids? Engage them in the process and help them look at the remodel as an adventure instead of a disruption.

Holiday Projects? Plan Now!

            I know school just started, fall is on its way, football season is soon to be in full swing and, yes, it is time to start thinking about Thanksgiving and Christmas. Only sixteen weeks left till Christmas. Yes, I really did just say that. It may seem like a long time away, but we all know that it will be here before we know it and probably before we are ready.

 

            Do you want a new kitchen or bathroom before Thanksgiving? Maybe you can’t redo the entire room but want to make some small changes. Or maybe you just want to finally get the dining room repainted or new carpet in your bedroom. Now is the time to start thinking about it and making plans. If you begin now, you will have plenty of time to get your project done before Thanksgiving hits and then you can enjoy your new space all throughout the Christmas season.

 

Some people have said to me “But it doesn’t take that long!” Well, let’s look at that.

                                    -Tile: 4-6 weeks

                                    -Cabinets: 4-6 weeks

                                    -Wood Flooring: 4 weeks

                                    -Granite: 1-2 weeks

                                    -Painting: 2-3 weeks

                                    -Appliances: 2-4 weeks

Yes, if you choose an in stock item, the lead time might be less than that, but better to prepare for the worst and the best happen then vice versa. Make sure you clearly communicate your deadline to the contractors you work with to ensure an on-time project. That way there will be no surprises and everyone is on the same page.

 

We all know that the holidays can be a stressful time. Endeavor to enjoy this season and all of its wonderful food, people and events by planning ahead. You can thank me later.

Houzz

            Yes, I spelled that correctly. Houzz (www.houzz.com) is a great resource for everything home and interiors related. According to their website, their goal is “to connect millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community powered by social tools, Houzz is the easiest way for people to get the design inspiration, project advice, product information and professional reviews they need to help turn ideas into reality.”

 

            If you have not already discovered this website, visit it ASAP. Like one of my friends recently remarked, “After spending only one hour on this site, I am addicted! I think I am going to need an intervention!” Houzz has a great search feature. Looking for tile backsplash ideas? Or front porch ideas? Their easily searchable database of pictures is sure to turn up something that will catch your eye. You can also search by style, like Cape Cod, Southwestern, etc.

 

            Like Pinterest, Houzz also has “Ideabooks” you can save favorite pictures to. Some ideas are Closet, Wine Cellar, Pantry, or Kitchen.  Organize your favorites by room and you will be ready to go whenever you can pull the trigger on your project. Sometimes deciding what you want is half of the battle.

 

So jump on in and explore the world of Houzz. Even if you are not planning a project now, it is still a great resource to know about.

All the Rage

            No, not the latest shoes or dress or even movie. The latest rage in homes and interiors is Pinterest(www.pinterest.com) and Houzz (www.houzz.com). Never heard of them? Well, let me explain what they are and how they can help you as you make your house your home. This week we will look at Pinterest. Their goal is to connect everyone in the world through the 'things' they find interesting. They think that a favorite book, toy, or recipe can reveal a common link between two people. Pinterest is connecting people all over the world based on shared tastes and interests.

 

            Pinterest is what I like to refer to as a wonderful online file cabinet. It allows me to store and sort pictures, ideas, crafts and recipes online in easy to find and navigate folders. Folders, known as “boards”, are perfect for collecting those recipes you keep meaning to try or that great sofa you would love to have. Some of my board titles are Food, Christmas, Kids, Weddings, Lighting, Home, Beach House (a girl can dream!) and Misc. I save or “pin” pictures or websites or articles from any online source that I want to reference or look at later into the appropriate file. I can also “like” or “repin” items my friends have saved to their boards. Pinterest also has a great search feature.

 

            Looking for a baby gift idea? Simply type it into the search bar and it will pull up more ideas than you can shake a stick at. Are you getting to build a home or remodel a room? Dreaming about the future? This website is a great tool to organize your thoughts and save your ideas. It beats tearing pictures out of magazines and trying to keep them organized. Possible board titles could be Tile, Kitchen, Bathroom, Yard, Porch, Ceilings, Paint colors, Bedding…The possibilities are endless.

           

            Explore this website and let me know your thoughts. I bet you will soon be hooked! Look my profiles up and see if there are any ideas you can use. Find me under Jessica Webber and Webber Coleman Woodworks.

Puppy Wash

            Do you have a special Fido in your family? Does the thought of bathing him in your Jacuzzi tub make you shudder? Is she too pampered to be hosed down in the driveway? Maybe it’s time to consider including a canine cleaning station in your laundry room. A perfect addition to a mudroom or laundry room, this tiled tub can do double duty to hose off muddy shoes or children. Below are a few points to keep in mind as you determine if this idea is worth it for you.

 

• Make sure the tub is large enough for your full grown dog. He may be a puppy now, but he will grow.
• High or low? Depending on the size of your dog, you may want to have a tub mounted higher for a small dog, to avoid bending over or one near the floor so you don’t have to lift that lab up high.
• Mount the faucet on the wall, high enough so Fido won’t bump his head. A hand shower is perfect for hard to reach spots and cleaning out the tub when you are finished.
• Tile the bottom and up the walls with a large size, easy to clean ceramic tile. Minimal grout joints and a non-slip surface are optimal. Make sure you tile far enough up and around to cover the “shake” zone.
• Include a shelf for storing shampoo and an outlet nearby should you need a hair dryer.
• Make sure you have storage space nearby for towels and any other brushes or items you may need during bath time.

 

Too much for you? There’s always the local vet or groomer that would be happy to take over this task for you. 

Painting Brass

            Do you have some bright brass or antique lamps in your house? What about chandelier? Do you dream of replacing it with something more current or up to date? Have you considered painting it? “Paint brass?” you say, “No way.” I recently found an antique brass lamp on Craigslist. I loved the shape, but the color just didn’t work with the rest of my furnishings. “Paint it.” was my first thought. Below is the process I used and it turned out great.

 

            Step 1: Using blue painters tape, tape off the electrical cord and bulb socket.

 

            Step 2: With fine sandpaper, lightly sand the lamp or brass item, making sure to                             hit all of the profiles. This will help with adhesion of the paint and make                               sure the surface is smooth.

           

            Step 3: Using a high quality spray paint in the color of your choosing, I chose                                 Rust-Oleum, spray a primer coat onto the entire lamp, taking care to                                evenly coat it and avoid drips or runs. Allow to dry completely, overnight.

 

            Step 4: Lightly sand the primer coat, dust off and spray another coat of paint.                                Allow to dry completely, overnight.

 

            Step 5: Spray a 3^rd coat of paint if necessary. You want to make sure there is an                             even, thick coat of paint over the entire surface. After it is dry, remove the                                blue painters tape and it is ready for use.

           

You now have a brand new lamp! I am no longer dismissing an item because of its finish. It can always be painted!

Eight Kitchen Terms Every Homeowner Should Know

1.      Stainless gauge: the thickness of the stainless steel; the lower the number (16 gauge is the best), the thicker the material and the higher quality of the sink.

 

2.      Undermount sink: A sink that mounts underneath the countertop allowing for a smooth transition from the top to the sink. Unlike a drop in sink which lips over the edge of the countertop.

 

3.      Recessed light: Also known as a down light or can light. This light is mounted in the ceiling cavity with only a small trim ring protruding down from the ceiling making it virtually flush with the ceiling.

 

4.      Glazed: Also known as antiqued. The process of placing a darker or lighter substance similar to a thick paint all over a cabinet door or any piece of wood, then wiping it off until the desired look is achieved. The glaze will remain in the profiles of the door or wood giving it an aged look.

 

5.      Pull Down: An arch top or gooseneck faucet where the actual sprayer pulls down eliminating the need for a separate sprayer. The pull down sprayer is kept in place by a magnet.

 

6.      Raised Panel: A door where the center panel has been shaped to provide a three dimensional effect. This is the most traditional style of cabinet and interior door.

 

7.      Convection: The process of circulating hot air around the oven cavity with one or two fans to evenly cook the food and shorten the required cooking time.

 

8.      Custom: Cabinets made to the sixteenth of an inch to exactly fit the space. Cabinets can be made in any length, depth or height and are not limited to 3” increments or “standard” sizes. Any design or idea can be reproduced and there is no limit to the imagination. Specialized finishes and colors can be reproduced to match anything.

 

Send me an email at Jessica@webbercoleman.com and let me know if you have any additions to this list or any term you have wondered about.

Home Office

            Most new homes are still built with a large, formal study. The wood paneled room most commonly found to the left or right directly inside the front door. The room that is hardly ever used.

 

            Many homeowners today are choosing to eliminate the formal study and incorporate that space into the master suite or kitchen and family room. In doing so, you are incorporating that square footage into spaces you use every day and. With the predominance of laptops, iPads and other wireless devices a formal study with an oversized desk is often a thing of the past. Instead homeowners are designating a small nook off of the kitchen.

 

            This space should include file storage, a work surface, and adequate lighting that can be used as a bill payment center and for organizing general household paperwork. Also consider incorporating a corkboard to pin up invitations, frequently used menus and pictures. It should have a door so that you have the option of closing it off while entertaining. You don’t have to look far for many cute and affordable ideas for this space. This is a great area to add color and accents that highlight your personality.

Laundry with Ease

            Busy, busy, busy! That’s what this time of year is. School is winding down and traveling is starting to crank up. Your home is a revolving door for visitors and your kids are constantly off to the next big adventure. It’s amazing how much laundry all of those comings and goings generates!

 

            One of the hot design trends right now is direct access laundry rooms. Connected to the master closet or bathroom, this location provides easy access for getting those mountains of laundry done. If you are considering repurposing your space to add a closet near the master bedroom, here are a few things to consider.

 

• Use a pocket doors instead of a traditional hinged door. It can be left open and out of the way for everyday use or closed to hide a messy space.
• Insulate the room so that any noise caused by the washer or dryer doesn’t keep you awake. Who doesn’t do laundry at night?!
• Ensure you have adequate lighting so you can tell the darks apart from the lights.
• If this isn’t your main laundry, a sink is not a requirement, but a folding surface is.
• Upper storage cabinets are a must to store detergents and extra linens from the master bedroom and bathroom.

 

            Whether you are remodeling your home or building a new one, stop and consider if the main laundry or secondary laundry room should be connected to the master closet or bathroom. This summer you are going to need a break and who couldn’t use a little easier way to do laundry.

Kitchen ROI

            Last week we discussed the ROI value of bathroom remodels and additions. This week we will focus on kitchens. After all, they are the heart of the home. Or as I like to say, your kitchen is where life’s most important conversations take place.

 

            Remodeling magazine’s cost vs. value report for 2011-2012 shows that if you spend between $5,000 and $25,000 on a kitchen remodel, you can expect to recoup 75% of your investment. If you spend $25,000-$100,000 on your kitchen remodel, you could expect to recoup 71.1%. These are great numbers! Even with the shape our economy has been in, it is good to know money invested in your kitchen is not lost, but highly valued.

 

            Now is the time, with interest rates holding at their low rates, to take the plunge and make the investment into your kitchen. Your family will thank you, you will thank you and you will have an enjoyable space to enjoy over the months ahead. I would love to hear how your project goes.

Bathroom ROI

            It’s springtime! The yellow film of pollen covering every surface is a sure sign. Warmer weather brings more action in the real estate market and more people are considering changes and updates to their home. Maybe you have considered updating a bathroom in your home but wondered if you would really be able to recoup your cost if you decided to sell your home down the road. Today we are going to take a look at the return on investment of a bathroom remodel.

 

            Remodeling magazine recently published their findings of a cost vs. value survey they conducted. They found that if you spent between $5,000 and $25,000 on a bathroom remodel in our region, you could expect to recoup approximately 70% of your investment. Now that’s not 100% but it sure is a great percentage. The same survey found that if you spent $25,000-$100,000 to add a bathroom to your home, you could only expect to recoup a little over 50% of your cost.

 

            So take the plunge! Get an estimate on remodeling a bathroom in your home and decide if the investment is worth the return. I don’t think you would regret doing it. I’d love to hear how your project goes.

Personal Valet

            A few years ago, I remodeled my closet adding lots of hanging space and pull outs. Sure, the extra shelves, full length mirror and pull outs are nice, but my favorite feature, hands down, is the pull out valet rod. It’s a small metal rod that pulls out from the face of a cabinet or shelf. I use it EVERY DAY to hang my outfit for the next day, an event or assist in packing for a trip.

 

            This small $20 part by Rev-a-shelf sure makes my life easier and more organized. No longer do I have clothes laying over a chair, on the bed or on the floor. If you could use a little more organization in your life (can’t we all?!), take a look into this product. You can find it online or at your local Lowes or Home Depot. It is inexpensive and easy to install yourself with just a few screws.

 

What’s your favorite feature about your closet? Or one thing you would definitely add if you had the opportunity?

Tangerine Tango

            The 2012 Pantone Color of the Year is Tangerine Tango. A spirited reddish orange, this color provides the energy boost we need to recharge and move forward.

“Sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is an orange with a lot of depth to it,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow, to form a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy.”

 

            That’s great and all, but what does the Color of the Year have to do with me? Or better yet, how can I incorporate it into my life? There are many ways you can add this fun color to your home and life. Paint your front door. This is a low cost way to change the look of your home. Add this color to your kitchen with new towels, mixing bowls or vases. Add some throw pillows to your couch. Swap out your table runner for one in this bold color. Little black dress with a pop of Tangerine Tango shoes? Yes! Perfect color for summertime nail polish. A cute clutch can really add pizazz to any outfit. Paint one wall in your home. Maybe the powder room? Add two lamps to your bedroom or living room in this great color.

 

            There are many simple ways to incorporate this color into your life and home. Take the plunge and try something new. I bet you will be glad you did. I would love to see what you come up with and where you decide to add this color, so please send me a picture!

Free Hanging

            Gone are the days of a solid sheet of mirror stretching wall to wall in a bathroom. If you have that in your bathroom, chances are it may be chipped or the finish is wearing around the edges. It is probably adhered with construction adhesive or screwed to the wall. Either way, if you are looking for a simple, relatively inexpensive way to update your bathroom, the mirror is the way to go.

 

            Frame your mirror in the same style and material as your vanity, a sleek stainless steel frame or an ornate gilt gold or silver frame. Try a single frame for each sink instead of one large frame stretched over the entire space. Go tall. Utilize the tall ceilings, if you have them. Consider removing the overhead vanity lights and go with sconces between the mirrors. Make sure you have enough overhead lighting if you decide to do this. There is nothing worse than a poorly lit bathroom. Don’t sit the mirrors directly on the backsplash, rather, hold them up about 2” to give a more custom look.

 

            If you are brave enough to try to remove the old sheet mirrors yourself, try using dental floss to thread behind the mirror to ease it away from the sheetrock and adhesive. If you are lucky enough to be able to remove the mirror without breaking it, you can repurpose it by having it cut down to fit a frame.

 

            Framed mirrors can be found in many places. Hobby Lobby, Pier 1, TJ Maxx, Target, Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn and West Elm have some of my favorites. Framed mirrors can add that little extra pizazz to what can sometimes be a dull space.

Trends in Luxury Bathrooms-Part 3

            I have yet to meet anyone that enjoys cleaning the shower. And who enjoys cleaning the metal track that your shower door sits in? Yuck! Thankfully, there is now another option. The trend in any bathroom is a frameless shower door. Simple and beautiful, this type of shower door takes a back seat and really allows your beautiful tile work to shine.

 

            Typically 3/8” thick with 3 hinges and a handle, cleaning this shower door can’t get much easier. There is no metal frame or metal track needed. Available in clear glass or several other opaque styles, there is sure to be one that suits your space. The most common hardware finishes are satin nickel, oil rubbed bronze and polished chrome. Most of the time, the hardware on the shower door will match the faucets in the shower. There are several companies in Athens that can supply and install one for you. Quality Glass, Keith Porter Specialties and K & G Installations to name a few.

 

            If you are considering a bathroom remodel or are in the midst of one, insist on a frameless shower door. Don’t use something that will detract from your tile. Instead install something that will only enhance your space and give you a better return on your investment. This is one trend that is not going to go out of style.

Trends in Luxury Bathrooms-Part 2

            Most bathroom floors are tiled and in the winter time, that makes for some cold feet in the mornings. Who wants to jump out of bed when they know their feet are going to hit some cold tile? That sounds like an excuse to hit the snooze button if you ask me. One item that is becoming almost a requirement in luxury baths and most master baths is heated floors. It is like walking on a warm beach. Now who doesn’t want to do that in February?

 

            Electric radiant floor heating is simple to install and radiates even heat with no cold spots. It is also effective in helping to heat your room. This mat of wires is placed between the durock and tile and is controlled by a programmable thermostat on the wall. Particular spots to make sure the mat is placed are in front of the sinks, in the general walk path and in front of the toilet. If you have a tile shower, also consider placing it under the floor tile. This will help heat you shower and you won’t have to waste many gallons of water heating up your tile shower before you step in.

 

            This heated floor mat can be placed under any tile, whether in the kitchen, laundry room, mudroom, sunroom or bathroom. We have used the SunTouch brand purchased through Traditions in Tile and have been very pleased with the ease of installation, service and value. If you are looking at redoing a tile floor, seriously consider installing the heated floor mat while you are at it. You will not be disappointed.

Trends in Luxury Bathrooms-Part 1

            It’s these cold winter days that have us all wishing and hoping for a luxurious, spa like bathroom. Warm steam, heated floors, and warm towels. Are you feeling warmer already? Let’s face it. We spend a large amount of time in our bathrooms and you want it to be nice. Over the next couple of weeks, we will take a look at some of the trends in luxury bathrooms.

 

            There is a resurgence of freestanding tubs in the master bath. Not necessarily the claw foot tubs of the past, but other materials are making a splash. Stone, glass, acrylic or even wood are taking center stage and making a statement in the form of a tub. Round, rectangular or angular shapes are not uncommon. Freestanding tubs are easier to clean, since you can easily reach all sides and make a bathroom feel more open without the large expanse of the tile surround around the tub. Whirlpool or soaking- the options are endless.

 

            If you are considering using a freestanding tub, take into consideration a couple of needs. A freestanding table or built in piece of furniture is needed within arms reach to store soaps or set a book. A towel rack nearby is a must. Is the floor underneath and around your tub slip resistant? Many times a different tile will be used around the tub to provide that extra level of safety. Pebbles, river rocks or textured tile are common surfaces and add a level of detail not normally seen.

 

            Do some research and decide if a freestanding tub is the way to go for your space. As shown in the Kohler tub pictured, they make a real statement and add architectural detail. Maybe this is the one thing that you bathroom needs to really stand out.

What now?

            It’s the middle of January. The Christmas decorations are put away. The kids are back to school, the house is clean and the refrigerator is a little emptier. The cold and rainy days of late have given you plenty of time to spend on Pinterest. You now have a board for “Kitchens.” Or you have been looking through magazines and have a stack of pictures of your “dream” bathroom. But you have no idea how much your project might cost. Is it even feasible for you? What is the next step?

 

            Step 1-Decide if you need to employ the expertise and assistance of a contractor or if you will                         try to manage the project yourself.

 

            Step 2-Call and schedule appointments to visit various showrooms of products that may    

                       be involved in your project. Tile, cabinets, countertops, flooring, plumbing

                       fixtures, light fixtures, etc…

 

            Step 3-Once you have visited showrooms and have an idea of the products you would like to                        use, you can now begin to set up appointments for those trades to visit your home

                       to put an estimate together.

 

            Step 4-At the beginning or part of the way through this process, you may find that                        you would have more confidence in someone else overseeing the many moving                        parts of your project. A licensed contractor is never a bad idea and can be an asset

                       in navigating the waters of a kitchen or bath remodel. Take the time to stop

                       and evaluate if this is the best option for you.

 

            You are now well on your way to finding out how feasible and involved your project will be. Like Benjamin Franklin once said “An ounce of prevention (or planning) is worth a pound of cure.” Take the time to plan well before jumping into your project.

Home Office: Is it for you?

According to a recent Better Homes and Gardens survey, 59 percent of prospective home buyers are looking for a home office in their next house. Maybe you aren’t a prospective home buyer, but maybe you are a prospective home seller or just want to increase the value of your home. Have you considered a designated space for a home office?

 

Maybe you have an unused living room that could be turned into a home office. Or what about designating a small space in your kitchen for an office workspace. What about that unused closet? It would fit a small desk. Or the bonus room. Get creative and consider what space in your home could be designated for a home office.

 

What items are essential to have in a home office space?

·         File drawers or storage

·         Internet connection-maybe this is where you keep your router.

·         Power-to connect phone chargers, telephone, computer, lamps.

·         Lighting-overhead lighting, lamp or specific under cabinet task lighting.

·         Storage space or shelving-pens, paper, notebooks, owner’s manuals.

·         Seating-a chair, small stool or if you have the space and overstuffed chair.

·         Trash can

 

January is always a great time to purchase organization items. All the stores will have them on sale. Organize your home office space and start your year off on the right foot!