Month: April 2018

Given the kitchen’s role as the heart of the home, design decisions take on a bit more weight than they do in other parts of the home. The floor should not only add to the décor, it should be sturdy enough to handle foot traffic and stains. The diversity of flooring products makes the selection product a challenge, so here are a few good types to think about.

• Vinyl – this costs less than many other flooring types and is easy to install. The material is sturdy and it can last for years with minimal maintenance. It is comfortable to walk on and offers great noise reduction.
• Limestone – appealing for its natural, earthy look, limestone is also a budget friendly flooring option. It is mold and bacteria resistant, and easy to clean, but requires frequent resealing. Limestone flooring can match almost any kitchen color scheme.
• Tile – the main advantage of tile flooring is the vast array of colors, sizes and patterns available. This is another good product for tight budgets, and it is durable so it offers long term value.
• Wood – when properly treated and maintained, a hardwood floor can last for years in a kitchen. It adds warmth and beauty to the space. Choose harder wood types like ash or oak to get the best value.
• Laminates – this is a good option for anyone wants the look of wood for less. Modern laminate products are almost indistinguishable from the real thing. Laminates are sturdy, easy to install and low maintenance.

How to Choose

Most people spend a lot of time in their kitchens, so comfort should be one of the main considerations when choosing flooring. You will spend time standing as you prepare meals, so the resilience and softness of the material should play a role. Spills are common in kitchens, so you need to be able to clean these up easily without worrying about stains. It is should be easy to get rid of tracked in dirt to keep the kitchen immaculate. If you are only changing the flooring, the budget might not be a big concern.

For a full kitchen remodel, you have balance your spending on other important features like cabinets and the countertop. Important factors for budgeting for a new floor include the size of the space, and the costs for removal, delivery and installation. Working out these details will tell you how much of your remodeling budget can go to your new floors.

The master bedroom is a special place in most homes, requiring some planning and effort to get just the right look. This is a room for comfort and relaxation, and function is generally not the main consideration. That means the emphasis is on making the right design decisions, such as layout, colors the furniture and even the selection of bedding. The functional aspects such as storage and seating contribute to the comfort of the space. The following features will help you to make the most of your master suite.

1. This is an attractive design feature that enhances the look of a room but it also provides warmth on cold nights.
2. Walk-in closet. This increases the value of the home, and eliminates storage problems in the master suite. With enough planning, and if you have enough space, the walk-in closet can also serve as a dressing room.
3. Large windows. A master bedroom should have plenty of light in the daytime so consider putting in larger windows. With UV shielding you can keep out the heat for a cooler interior and lower energy bills. Floor to ceiling windows can have a dramatic impact on the look of the room
4. Adding a balcony is a great way to keep you connected to the outdoors. You can have the best of both worlds, whether you choose to relax in the master bedroom or enjoy the fresh air outside.
5. Update the master bath. If you have an adjoining master bathroom, it deserves some attention as well. Turn it into a mini spa with earthy tones and the right fixtures and amenities. Consider a free standing soaking tub or a Jacuzzi, a walk-in shower with dual showerheads and mood lighting.
6. Update the lighting. With so many attractive lighting fixtures available, it will be easy to find one that illuminates and adds to the room’s décor. A chandelier can brighten the space while adding a luxurious touch. If the ceiling is not high enough to accommodate this, other good options for the master suite include swooping lights, sconces and pendants.
7. Add a rug. Having a rug that surrounds the bed gives you a warm place to put your feet when you get up. Look for colors and patterns that will complement the overall décor.

If you are remodeling your master bedroom, you can find ways to incorporate your personal tastes. It is not just about comfort, it also has to do with making the room a reflection of you. If the budget is tight, start with the smallest changes and continue to make improvements over time.