These 2022 Bathroom Trends Work with Every Decorating Style

This blog is about bathroom trends and comes from Kristina McGuirk with Better Homes and Garden. We love sharing with you blogs that we feel will be beneficial to our clients in planning for their perfect bathroom remodel! Feel good investing in these practical updates to create a smarter, more stylish bathroom.

Bathroom Trends

We’re still finding ourselves spending a lot of time at home, and with that comes more focus on how our spaces look and function. In 2022, homeowners will be addressing outdated bathroom designs with harder-working fixtures and stylish accents that provide a comfortable, practical refresh. Check out these bathroom trends below.

  1. Updated Sinks and Touchless Faucets

According to the Houzz 2021 bath trends report, faucets are the most popular bath upgrade, and their counterpart, sinks, are seeing more switch-outs since the year before. “There has been an increased focus on the importance of washing hands over the past 20 months. As we put more thought into hand-washing, naturally we put more consideration into our hand-washing and hygiene spaces,” says Caroline Danielson, director of showrooms for Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery.

According to Danielson, homeowners want to make their spaces more inviting and stylish while increasing function. “To make their space more hygienic, a homeowner might decide to install a touchless fixture,” she says. While bath fixtures have been impacted by supply-chain issues, Danielson notes that the variety of products available is making it easier to accomplish these projects.

  1. Organic Style

Organic style, which emphasizes natural materials, warm, earthy colors, and plenty of plants, emerged as a major theme in home design in 2020, and it has quickly become the top bathroom style—up from third in 2021, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) 2022 Design Trends Report. Accents complementing this style will continue to pop up in bath designs, especially those that embrace a connection to nature.

A report by the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) notes increased interest in skylights as a source for natural light, while Houzz data shows more homeowners adding plants to their bathsEarthy greens and watery blues will also appear in bathrooms, though the NKBA predicts monochromatic applications rather than bold, contrasting uses of color.

  1. Multipurpose Storage

The desire for better-functioning spaces is leading many to rethink existing layouts in their home, with access to storage a key motivator for this change. The NAHB found linen closets within the primary bath to be a highly sought-after feature by homebuyers. Over the next three years, bathroom layouts will be opening up to include dressing areas, closets, and laundry rooms, according to the NKBA report.

Related: 28 Bathroom Storage Ideas to Organize All Your Essentials

  1. Modern Influences

Regardless of a bathroom’s overall design, modern accents will be prevalent in 2022, according to Stacy Garcia, founder of the kitchen and bath industry Twitter chat KBtribechat. “Even though most kitchens and bathrooms today include a personalized mix of elements, adding a modern touch is increasingly popular,” she says. “A fun, modern light fixture can add a dynamic element of surprise.” Garcia expects modern style to influence vanity designs as well, which benefit from the ease of cleaning and an uncluttered look thanks to the minimal lines of more contemporary design.

Related: 12 Minimalist Bathroom Ideas for a Clean, Modern Look

  1. Integrated Technology

With the rising popularity of smart toilets and touchless faucets, technology continues to be integrated into bathroom designs for more comfort and efficiency. Digital, wall-mounted interfaces, mobile apps, tech-savvy controls for showers, and heated flooring top NKBA’s 2022 bath technology trends.

Also popular for 2022 are bath ventilation upgrades. Humidity- and steam-sensing exhaust fans, which work without the user having to turn them off or on, are popular investments that practically and sustainably replace older ventilation. Smaller-scale connected products like scales and mirrors will make their way into the bath, too.

  1. Improved Vanity Lighting

According to Houzz, 82% of homeowners are upgrading light fixtures for a brighter bath. Aesthetically, gold and black finishes continue to provide stylish accents, according to Greg Martin, creative director of design for Kichler Lighting. “White glass is also coming on strong as we move away from the popularity of the vintage Edison filament bulb,” he says. Martin also sees self-lit vanity mirrors continuing as a popular choice for brightening baths in 2022, while the NKBA report notes a clear trend toward switching to sustainable LED lighting.

  1. Universal Design Upgrades

What you might not realize is that many of these trends are connected to universal design principles, a motive behind many bathroom improvements. Houzz reported that more than half of bathroom renovations are done to address needs specific to groups like aging family members, young children, or people with disabilities. Similarly, the NKBA lists universal design as a significant factor influencing bath design in 2022. As inclusive design becomes more mainstream, homeowners have an increased awareness of adaptations needed in their own homes.

Related: 19 Universal Design Principles to Consider When Remodeling Your Bathroom

Look for accessibility to converge with the already popular spa-inspired shower trend in the coming years. According to Houzz, 74% of people are upgrading their shower experience with fixtures like rainfall showerheads, body sprayers, and mood lighting. The NKBA also notes that curbless shower entries, handheld showers, and shower seats are being incorporated. While these features are often included in luxury showers, they’re also aligned with universal design. “Barrier-free showers with no curb are becoming the norm in both new construction and even remodeling,” says Ebony Stephenson, owner of Designs by Ebony. “They are no longer thought of as ‘wheelchair-accessible‘ showers, but simply showers accessible for all.”

Written by Kristina McGuirk/December 13, 2021. You can read the entire blog (with all the photos) here.

Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

For high-end home design, build, and remodeling in the greater Phoenix area that reflects your vision, Tri-Lite Builders will help you love your home again. Start your project by calling us at (480) 895-3442 or email [email protected] to discuss your remodeling project.  We offer no-obligation in-home consultation. Our NARI-certified award-winning designers and craftsman are eager to work with you to make your vision for your home a reality!  See our portfolio here.

 

 

8 Steps For Your Successful Kitchen Remodel

Sitting there with your walls closing in?  Have you redesigned your kitchen, workspace, bathroom, or your entire house while working from home in 2020?!  What a year!  With the end of 2020 near, we are looking forward to 2021 with hope and plans for change. If you are planning to remodel one room, remodeling your kitchen can be a worthy project to tackle in the new year! It will make your home look fabulous, create a better usable space for you and your family while adding to its value. To get started, follow these 8 steps for your successful kitchen remodel.

8 Steps for Your Successful Kitchen Remodel

  1. Consider What You Need in Your Kitchen

Before you even begin making plans for your remodel, consider what you need in your kitchen. Are you planning on cooking every night of the week or are you still going to do take-out most nights? Is this space being used for an office or online learning for your kids? Are you wanting to make your kitchen more of the hub of your home? Once you have all your priorities in order, you can continue to the next steps.

  1. Determine Your Budget

Once you know what you want in your new kitchen, you will need to determine your budget. That way, you will know what type of remodeling you can do. We encourage clients to do online research about appliances.  Most manufacturers will post retail pricing online, so you can add that item specifically to your budget.  Build some space into the budget so that you can plan for unexpected _____________ while also giving you room to add ideas.

  1. Create a Houzz Profile to Research Preliminary Design and Materials Ideas

By creating a preliminary design concept with preliminary materials, you are giving potential contractors an idea of what you are looking for. This will make it easier when you begin looking for estimates. Changes will typically be made to these designs, and most of the time, that is what happens.  We have an award-winning professional designer that will help guide clients through the process of choosing the best materials and design for their dream remodel.

  1. Begin to Get Estimates from Contractors

Now is the time to set up interviews and get estimates from contractors. We never recommend going with the lowest or the highest quote all the time, nor is the one in the middle always the best choice. Instead, you will want to look at the numbers and the answers to the questions that you ask the contractors. Your decision will come down to how comfortable you feel with the contractor that you choose. We have a FREE eBook, 10 Things You Must Know Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor, that can help you with this!

  1. Finalize Design Plans and Choose Materials

Once you have your contractor, you will finalize all your design plans and choose all the materials for your new kitchen. It is important to complete this early in your remodel, so that you do not end up waiting for things that are on back order halfway through the project.

  1. Get Permits

Once in the hands of a contractor or his project manager, the necessary permits are applied to complete the work on your kitchen. There can be a wait time for some of these, so the process is done early in the project to avoid a delay on the start time.

  1. Prepare for Demo

Demolition has its moments, but is typically not fun, especially when it comes to a kitchen. After all, you will be without a kitchen for a few to several weeks. We recommend that you set up a mini kitchen somewhere else in your home so that you can still prepare some simple meals. Also, do not start the demolition process until you are sure everything is in stock for your project, or you may find yourself hanging around waiting halfway through.

  1. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

When you are at the end of your project, there may be a few things that will need to be addressed.  Usually, these items are never big because you and your contractor have been communicating all the way through the project. Instead, it might be a small scratch in the paint, a ding in the molding, or a dent in a door panel. These are easy fixes and will get straightened out. Be patient through it all, after all, you’ve made it this far!

Kitchen Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

If you follow these 8 steps for a successful kitchen remodel, you will find your experience to be a good one! And once the project is completed, you will have a kitchen you love. Call us at (480) 895-3442 to discuss remodeling your kitchen with us. Our award-winning designers and builders are happy to show you how we can improve the functionality and style of your kitchen.

Message us here to receive your free eBook from Homework Remodels – 10 Things You Must Know Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor

 

10 Top Kitchen Countertops in 2020

In our last blog, we talked about how unique backsplashes can transform your kitchen.  Just as backsplashes are far from plain and simple, there are so many choices for countertops available now.  Many of them will give your kitchen the high-end look that you have always dreamed of. The only thing standing between you and your dream kitchen is that first step. Are you ready? Here are the 10 top kitchen countertops in 2020 that will help you choose your ideal countertop.

How to decide?

The kitchen countertop is one of the most crucial elements of most kitchens. It is where we plan meals, prepare food, and clean up and often eating meals on that countertop.  Having one that is stylish and upscale makes it enjoyable. When it comes to choosing the right kitchen countertop, there are many questions need to be answered:

  • What is the best countertop for your money?
  • How much does kitchen countertop cost?
  • What is the most durable countertop?
  • What is the best material as a kitchen countertop?

If you are looking for some budget material, laminate countertops may be a good deal for you. In this article, we’ll only focus on countertops made of natural stone.

How much does it cost?

If you are renovating your kitchen or just decide to replace your kitchen counter, you may want to check the price tag first. In general, the most expensive ones are the granite countertops. They range from $70 to $300 per square foot. The others such as quartz countertops have a price tag ranging from $60 to $175.

If you are looking for something high-end, elegant, stylish, and sophisticated which will add a positive spirit to your kitchen, you may consider buying a granite countertop. Of course, while you choose the countertop, kitchen cabinets play an important role because the color, the feel and look of the cabinets must be consistent with your material.

Replacing a countertop will cost around $4000 in material (the fabrication and installation depend on the fabricator, but will be, at least as much as the material itself). While an inexperienced person can install some type of countertops, materials like granite and marble will definitely require expert installation. Trying to save money can be more costly if you don’t know to handle such precious natural stones.  *Price costs edited by Homework Remodels

Durability of Countertops

There are many trendy kitchen designs nowadays. Fashion may influence our choices but durability is also very crucial. Granite is the most durable material among other countertop options. Quartz comes second in terms of durability. Other materials follow these two.

Granite Countertops

Because it is a natural stone that can absorb heat easily and resist scratching and staining. This stain-resistant stone is also easy to clean. Most granite countertops come in 1 ¼” or 3cm sizes up to 10‘x 6‘. These sizes make it quite functional to use as a seamless piece of material in kitchens for countertops and kitchen islands. This is one of the best solid surface countertops on earth.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz can be found on earth easily. It is very abundant material. There are different types of quartz. The usage of quartz as a surface covering material is after the technological advances in natural stone cutting and mixing technology. This artificially created countertop is a cheaper alternative to marble and granite. It consists of resin and raw quartz.

Marble Countertops

Marble is a timeless and classic natural stone. It was once a symbol of luxury and richness. It was used in ancient cities to build temples, houses, statues. It is still a beloved and very popular natural stone that will add value and character to your kitchen.

Travertine Countertops

Granite is by far the first material that comes to mind when speaking of countertops or kitchen islands. But if you want to try something different, we have a wide selection of different travertine slabs as an alternative to granite. Travertine resembles marble rather than granite and its installation requires a technique called precision edging. It has a more tiled look than granite. Its maintenance is easier and it gives a more historical look to countertops. Because this stone dates back to days of the Roman Empire. Many sections of the Colosseum in Italy were made out of travertine.

Limestone Countertops

Limestone slabs are quarried as limestone blocks. It is mostly used to make kitchen countertops, bathroom vanity tops, and other design elements. It is a sedimentary rock. It has been used widely throughout history in different buildings such as the Great Pyramid of Giza. It is elegant, beautiful, and tames bold colors. Of course, there are some disadvantages to this sensitive stone. It requires more care than granite or marble when it comes to care and maintenance of this natural beauty. You have to be careful when you put a hot pan on it or be careful not to scratch it.

Onyx Countertop

Onyx is a stone that has had many definitions applied to it over the centuries. Traditionally it will present as having distinctive bands… but not always. As a rule, it is somewhat exotic in appearance and therefore Onyx Slabs bring a level of desirable luxury into any modern space.

Exotic statements of nature… Onyx is a magnificent gift of nature. it is a gift of warmth that includes an incredible depth of color. The stone is formed by nature into translucent layers of marble. They provide a focal point wherever they are used. The onyx color palette goes from a rich neutral to exotic depths of color. Define your living space, your statement of design, and your appreciation of truly natural art. Enjoy entirely unique this gift of nature.

Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone is a sedimentary stone that has a talc-based component. Soapstone Slabs are easily worked into kitchen countertops and bathroom vanity tops. The material enjoys a depth of color and texture that allows for a highly stylized visual image inside the modern home.

Porcelain Countertops

For people who are looking for more alternatives, porcelain countertops may be the solution. Made from non-porous ceramic clay which contains minerals like kaolinite and silica, this material looks very elegant as a kitchen countertop. It is highly resistant to scratching, cracking, and heat. The only main downside of this elegant countertop is about its patterns. Patterns on porcelain countertops are only surface deep, meaning they lack the look of depth.

Slate Countertops

Slate is a metamorphic stone. It is usually quite fine-grained and can be found in basic grays, greens, and blacks. Also, more exotic color ranges exist that bring to space a uniqueness of spirit rarely found elsewhere. Slate slabs yield exquisitely interesting kitchen and bath tops.

Quartzite Countertops

Finally, we have reached the end of our list. Quartzite is one of the harder more durable building materials that you might choose. Quartzite Slabs contain very high quartz content and with that comes density, stain resistance, and minimal care requirements. A modern kitchen countertop is a perfect place for this material. The main difference between quartz and quartzite lies in its creation. While quartzite is 100% natural stone, quartz is a man-made material that is engineered with quartz crystals and strengthened by resin.

For more photos from this blog, you can learn more here.

Greater Phoenix Area Award-Winning Remodeler

Contact us at (480) 895-3442 if you are interested in remodeling your home and adding to the unique appeal you enjoy from your living spaces.

Peruse our portfolio for more ideas for creating spaces that will make you enjoy your home again!

Featured on HGTV

Featured on HGTV

This mid-century modern home was originally designed and built by Ralph Haver in the Marlin Grove neighborhood in central Phoenix. Our remodel of this unique home was featured on HGTV and gained national recognition as well as locally on the Modern Phoenix home tour and website. The remodel of the home’s interior involved updating the kitchen, guest bathroom, and great room areas. This unique space was transformed and given a high-end European feel while retaining its 50’s flair

A more open floor plan

The mid-century modern kitchen remodel created a more open floor plan by removing the original box-like island from the kitchen. Then we replaced the island and the rest of the original cabinets with new frame-less acrylic-finish UltraCraft cabinetry. Adding bold touches of orange cabinetry as well as stainless steel kick plates accented this unique kitchen.

Quartz counter-top material wrapped three sides of the new island. The same quartz counter-tops were used on all of the kitchen cabinets, extending out onto the “floating cabinets” in the dining area.  The kitchen was also tiled with the same porcelain rectangular tile used in the adjoining great room.

Floating cabinets allow light

The floating cabinets are supported by a tubular steel framework between the kitchen cabinets and the dining room block wall. We replaced an unused exterior door in the dining area with a picture window. The floating cabinets allowed the light from the window to flow above and below the cabinetry into the dining area.

Additional lighting features

The mosaic glass tile back-splash was accented by the touch-to-activate under-cabinet lighting. A boxed fluorescent ceiling light was removed and replaced with cable lighting that would not conflict with the exposed ceiling beams.

For an even more in-depth view of this home remodel, check out HGTV’s video here.

Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

Start your project by calling us at (480) 895-3442 or emailing [email protected] to discuss remodeling your home, kitchen, or bathroom. We offer no-obligation ZOOM or in-home consultation.  See more of our award-winning remodels here.

Bathroom Sink Materials You Need to Know About and Why

 

Are you in the process of renovating your bathroom or simply replacing your bathroom sink? If the answer is yes, you may think that you can easily walk into any home improvement store and pick up a new sink immediately.

We are sorry to say that that is not the case!

There are so many different sink materials that you can choose from and you need to make sure that you pick the one that will work best for your needs.

Here are 5 bathroom sink materials you need to know about and why:

  1. Ceramic

 

Most of us are familiar with ceramic sinks and we love them because they are durable and resistant to scratches and chipping. That makes this material one of the best since this sink will be used constantly throughout the day. Maintenance and cleaning of ceramic sinks is easy, as dirt and grime are unable to penetrate through the surface.

 

  1. Porcelain

 

Porcelain sinks are even more durable than regular ceramic and it is a common choice amongst homeowners, due to its low moisture absorption and the fact that it is easy to clean. We recommend cleaning this material with an all-purpose cleaner and avoiding vinegar, as the high acid content will destroy the finish. This material can get chipped easily if something is dropped into it and stains will set if they are left longer than a minute.

 

  1. Natural Stone

 

Natural stone is beautiful when it is used for sinks and since it is a natural material, no two stone sinks will ever look alike. You can choose a polished and finished sink, or you can go rustic and purchase one that is unfinished. These sinks must be sealed prior to installation and you will need to reseal it every year or two. A stone cleaner is your best option when it comes to cleaning this material and it is necessary to wipe the water out of these sinks after using them, so that the mineral deposits do not build up over time.

 

  1. Stainless Steel

 

Stainless steel sinks are normally found in kitchens, but you can also place one inside your bathroom. This material is resistant to germs and bacteria and it can be scrubbed constantly to keep it looking nice. These sinks are quite durable, but you need to use caution that you do not scratch them. This sink is easily washed with a mild soap and water and any standing water should be wiped up to prevent the sink from changing colors due to the buildup of minerals.

 

  1. Wood

 

Wood sinks are becoming more popular and teak is a favorite option due to its moisture resistance. Cleaning this sink is easy with gentle soap and a soft cloth. It is important to note that wood sinks do change color over time, so you may want to choose a lighter color to begin with. To keep this sink looking beautiful, you will need to apply teak oil to it approximately four times a year.

 

We recommend choosing the bathroom sink material that will not only meet your needs, but also meet the time that you have available for cleaning and maintaining it. After all, there is no point in purchasing a sink that requires a lot of maintenance if you have no time to do any of it!

 

4 Types of Bathroom Faucets and How to Choose the One that is Best for You

 

Remodeling a bathroom can be quite intimidating, due to the amount of decisions that you need to make during the entire process. One of the most challenging things that you will need to figure out is what type your new bathroom faucet will be. There are four different options and then you have all the different finishes to choose from as well.

Here are the 4 different bathroom faucets that you can choose from:

  1. Center-set: This faucet is affixed to a plate that has a spout and two handles and it is normally used on sinks that have three faucet holes.

 

  1. Widespread: The widespread faucet has a spout and two handles as well, but they are each mounted separately into the holes in the sink.

 

  1. Single Hole: The single hole faucet takes up less space, plus give your bathroom sink a more modern look.

 

  1. Wall Mount: If you do not want your faucet attached to your sink, then you can choose one that attaches to the wall over it. Your water supply needs to be accessible through the wall, which means that you may need to pay more to have this type of faucet installed.

 

Here are the 5 questions that you should ask yourself, so that you can choose the best faucet for your bathroom:

 

  1. What faucet will fit your sink? It is always important to choose a faucet that will fit the hole openings in the sink in your bathroom.

 

  1. What features are you looking for in your new sink? There are plenty of features available in newer faucets, which means that you will need to know which ones appeal to you the most. Do you want a low-flow one to conserve water, an aerator to reduce the water that comes out to save some money, or a hands-free faucet that only turns on with motion? You will be amazed at all the options that you can choose from.

 

  1. What finish do you want? There are plenty of finishes to choose from but the most common include some type of chrome, nickel, and bronze. Thankfully, most faucets are available in all finishes, so you do not need to worry about settling for your second or third choice.

 

  1. What is your budget? Faucets are just like everything else, which means that you can spend a little money or a lot of money on just one faucet. We recommend having your budget in mind before you venture to the store to pick out a faucet or you may find yourself even more overwhelmed when you get there. Your budget can at least help you avoid at least a third of options!

 

  1. What faucets are used in the other homes in my neighborhood? If you are close to your neighbors, you probably know what type of faucet they have in their bathrooms. This knowledge will help you know what you do not like and what you may prefer for your bathroom.

 

Once you have answered these five questions, you will be ready to purchase and install the faucet that will work best in your bathroom.

How to Choose Kitchen Cabinets for Your Remodeled Kitchen

Cabinets not only add beauty to the kitchen, they are vital to keeping it organized. Like other features, the size, quality, style, material and finish are all important. This can increase the difficulty in finding the right type, but these tips may be helpful.

  1. Start with a budget. How much you spend depends on the type of wood, the size and the style of the cabinets. This can account for as much as 45 to 50% of your remodeling budget. If you have a total budget in mind you can have a rough idea of how much you might spend on cabinets.
  2. Get measurements. Determine where cabinets will be installed and get the measurements. This sets the basic cabinet size, and helps in setting the cost.
  3. Decide between custom or pre-made. Pre-made cabinets are the more affordable option, but there are some drawbacks. You may be forced to adjust other features to accommodate the sizes. These types are generally not the same quality as custom cabinets. Custom cabinets also generally offer wider ranges in design, style and sizes.
  4. Find the right style. The look of the kitchen and your home’s architecture should guide the look of your cabinets. The diverse style can make choosing difficult, but there are plenty of great ideas in home improvement magazines and on the Internet. A carpenter can also help you to find the right style for your kitchen.
  5. Think about wood type and color. The kitchen’s color scheme and the countertop material should be a good visual fit for cabinets. Cabinet finishes can be bright white, dark wood or anything in between.
  6. Consider organizational features. Just as important as the look of your cabinets is how you will use them. How many shelves will they have, and what will the shelf height be? Nifty features like pull-outs for utensils, wine or condiments. Corner shelves and roll out shelves can also boost efficiency in the kitchen.

The desire for additional options may rule out pre-made kitchen cabinets. Stock cabinets can be difficult to modify, so it makes sense to invest in custom styles to get exactly what you want right from the start. Additionally, stock cabinets usually need to be replaced more quickly than custom types. Do not buy kitchen cabinets until you fully work out the size, look and finish. This way you can expect them to last for years and reap the benefits of a functional kitchen.

Bathroom Remodeling Ideas that Add Functionality While Increasing Your ROI

One of the advantages of home remodeling is the return on investment (ROI). Some projects pay off more than others, and one of the most attractive in terms of ROI is bathroom remodeling. Typically, these average between 60 – 65%, but it can be even higher with luxury upgrades. Here are some of the best ideas that will appeal to buyers and boost the property’s profile.

  1. Aging in place upgrades. More families are staying under one roof, so it is likely that some buyers consider the needs of aging parents. Additionally, these features can be useful for individuals with disabilities. Bathrooms with these upgrades will make the home safer, and buyers will be willing to spend a bit more if there is no need to carry out their own upgrades.
  2. Sink/vanity combo. An attractive vanity can instantly transform the look of a bathroom. Choose a style and finish that blends with any other improvements. If the sink is in good condition, its age could detract from the décor. Think of a new sink as making a contribution to the new look. The vanity does the same thing, plus it helps to keep the bathroom free of clutter.
  3. New lighting features. Too many bathrooms suffer from poor lighting, and this is even worse when the bathroom is not located beside an exterior wall. The bathroom should only be bright, it should have layered lighting options. If the mirror does not have its own lights, adding sconces to either side will be a simple but elegant touch. The shower or bathtub should also have its own light source.
  4. New tiles. The range of colors and patterns can give any bathroom a visual boost. The right tones such as terra cotta, can add warmth, and other can make the space luxurious. Choose a non-slip texture to enhance safety. If you are willing to spend a bit more, there are also custom tile options available.
  5. A statement bathtub. Some homeowners are getting rid of bathtubs in favor of spa-like showers, but this is still something that home buyers expect to see. If you want a return on your investment consider adding a statement tub. An elegant freestanding tub gives the bathroom a classic touch. It also reinforces the idea of this space being ideal for relaxation after a long day.

When you decide to remodel the bathroom, one of your first thoughts will be about the cost. However, given that these projects tend to pay off well, choose quality materials and products to get the best results.

How to Plan for Your 2019 Home Addition

2019 can be a big year for you, especially if you take the time to finally do that home addition that you have been dreaming of! Imagine all the new space that you and your family will have and how you finally won’t be tripping over each other as you go about your days and nights.

Here are 4 things to do as you are planning for your 2019 home addition:

  1. Create a Budget: Now that you know that you want a home addition built onto your home, you are going to need to decide how much you want and can spend on this venture. The amount that you choose should be reasonable, as this is not something that you can do for a few thousand dollars. However, you do not want to choose an amount that is so high that you will never recoup those costs when you sell.
  1. Find Your Property Lines: There is nothing worse that creating a design for your home addition and then finding out that your property lines will not support that design! We recommend that the first thing that you do, after deciding that you want to construct a home addition, is find your property lines and learn the codes of how close you can build to them.
  1. Create a Design that Works with Your Current Home: This step is not something that you will be able to do on your own, unless of course you are an architect or residential designer. Therefore, we recommend that you hire someone to work with you to create a design that will work with your current space. After all, you don’t want your home addition to look like it just dropped out of the sky and landed in a heap in a weird spot!
  1. Utilize Your Design to Create the Plans for Your Home Addition: The plans that you have created during this step will include all the materials that will be used during the construction process. It will take time for you to decide which materials you want to use throughout this space, which is why this can be the most time-consuming and frustrating part. We do recommend that you choose multiple materials for each item on the list, as you may find that you need to compromise in some areas due to your budget and the availability of some materials.

Constructing a home addition can be challenging, but the above steps can make the process much easier for you and your family. If you follow these steps carefully, you will have everything in place when the construction phase starts. That means that almost all the work can be done without problems arising on the items that you planned out so carefully. Of course, you may still have a few other issues pop up, but those will seem mild in the end!

Choosing the Right Appliances for Your Newly Remodeled Kitchen

Remodeling a kitchen is overwhelming enough, but once you add in choosing the right appliances, you may find yourself going over the edge! Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with everything that you need to know about choosing the perfect appliances.

Here are 4 things you need to do when choosing the right appliances for your newly remodeled kitchen:

  1. Create Your Plan: Yes, you will need a plan for your appliance purchase, as it will help you avoid buying something that will not make this new space look and feel as it should! We recommend that you take the layout of your new kitchen, your budget, your lifestyle, and the style of this space into consideration before deciding on the appliances that you want.
  1. Choosing Your Range or Cooktop and Wall Oven: Depending on how much room you have in your new kitchen, you may have the option to install a cooktop and wall oven instead of a range. Each option has its own benefits, but you will need to know which one will benefit you the most. Of course, if your new kitchen is smaller, you won’t have a choice but to stick with a range. Thankfully, there are multiple fantastic options available, so you can get one that meets all your criteria. Oh, and don’t forget about features like speed cooking, which can cut your time in the kitchen in half!
  1. Choosing Your Refrigerator: There used to be a time when all refrigerators were the same, but that is not the case today! Nowadays, you can choose from a top or bottom freezer and side by side units. You also have the option of freestanding, built-in, and fully integrated models. We do recommend that you have an idea of what size refrigerator you will need before you design your kitchen remodel, so you create a large enough space for the one that you eventually purchase. You may also want to consider purchasing a supplemental refrigerator that fits underneath your countertop, as it is an excellent place to store beverages and even a few snacks.
  1. Choosing a Dishwasher: Dishwashers no longer need to be out in the open in kitchens, as they can be fully integrated just like refrigerators. That means that the look of a dishwasher is not as important as it once was. Therefore, you can focus more on the inside of the dishwasher, as you see how much can fit inside and how well it does its job. If you do not want a standard dishwasher or are looking at installing a second one in your newly remodeled kitchen, we recommend considering one of the new dishwasher drawers. They work well, do not take up as much space, and can even be installed in an island. And, think of how much faster you can get the dishes done when you are entertaining!

Taking these four things into consideration will help you as you are choosing the right appliances for your newly remodeled kitchen. Do not think that you can walk into a store and pick out the first appliances that you see. Some thought needs to go into this process or you will find yourself using appliances that do not work as well as they should for your needs!

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