10 Keys to a Well-Functioning House

The design of a house can have a profound effect on how we feel, but we often attribute this to aesthetics. In fact, it’s about so much more including creating a well-functioning house. Good design should enhance our experience of a space, and the way a room looks is almost the icing on the cake. Here are 10 key tips for achieving a comfortable, well-thought-out home.

well-functioning house

Craig O’Connell Architecture

TIPS FOR A WELL-FUNCTIONING HOUSE

  1. Get the Layout Right  The starting point for any kind of change in your home should be the layout and the way the space functions. Spend time looking at how you use and move around your home. Try to establish what is and isn’t working to get a clear picture of what you need to alter. If the space doesn’t work well and you’re finding it difficult to move around or be comfortable, the interior decoration isn’t going to make much of an improvement. Rather, you may need to knock down a wall between a kitchen and a family or dining room, for example, or steal space from a bedroom to create an en suite.
  2. Be Practical  A well-designed home is one that makes things easy for you, so it pays to make room for those everyday tasks like laundry. Not all of us have space for a separate utility area, but clever design may enable you to maximize the space you do have. A washer and dryer can be stacked and concealed behind closet doors, making them easy to access when required.
  3. Use the Awkward Space  Do you have an area you don’t know what to do with? Challenging spaces are often left bare, and bare spaces tend to attract clutter. If an unused corner in your home has become messy, it may take away from the enjoyment of the room. Think about how you can transform the space, as there are clever ways of putting these awkward areas to good use. A nook at the top of a staircase can have a window seat that’s both functional and cozy.

well-functioning house

Melanie Stewart Designs

  1. Future-Proof It  Make sure that your design addresses more than just your immediate needs. It’s very easy to focus your attention on how you want to live right now, especially if you have young children. However, your needs will change over time, so it’s vital that you build in some flexibility. For instance, the opportunity to create a separate living space in an open-plan home may be a good idea for when the children get older, since family members may eventually desire a calm room away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the home.

well-functioning house

Barcci Builders

  1. Designate Storage  A place for everything and everything in its place” really is the mantra for a well-functioning home. When it comes to choosing the right kind of storage, you should let what you need to store dictate the kind of storage that you select. Designated storage is far more efficient and useful than general storage. By having a specific place for each item, you’ll avoid the possibility of everything being thrown in haphazardly.

well-functioning house

Glas Associates

  1. Plan the Lighting  Lighting is one of the most important design aspects of a home and is something many people struggle with. It has such a powerful effect on the ambiance of a room that it is worth taking the time to get it absolutely right. The trick is to get the proper balance of artificial and natural light. Too much artificial light results in a space that feels clinical, but if a room is underlit, everything appears gloomy and uninviting.

well-functioning house

123 Remodeling Inc.

  1. Make Rooms Work Hard  When you’re designing a room, try to see where you can utilize spaces more effectively. Can you give a design feature multiple functions, for example? Can you build in more storage?

well-functioning house

Bilotta Kitchen and Home

  1. Pick Finishes Wisely  Choose finishes that are appropriate for the room. Tiles in a kitchen are a practical, durable choice for flooring. Spend time researching the finishes for your home, and ask about upkeep and suitability for the space where you plan to use them. Even if you love the look of an item, it’s important to think about whether it’s a practical choice for your room.

well-functioning house

Kalaa Chakra Interiors

  1. Layer With Color  Your choice of color isn’t important only for how it looks; it also will have a big impact on how you feel in the space. Get it wrong and the color will shout at you every time you enter the room. Get it right, and you won’t even notice the color — you’ll just love spending time in the space. A good tip is to layer your color palette: Start with a neutral backdrop and build on color carefully by adding bolder shades through accessories and art. However, neutral doesn’t mean painting your walls a bland shade. You can create a neutral version of practically any color by going either very light or very dark. Think grays, caramels, and sandy tones, all of which work in any version from light to dark as a neutral backdrop that you can combine with any other accent color.

well-functioning house

Christopher Patrick Interiors

  1. Let Your Personality Shine  Most importantly, your home should reflect the personality of those who live in it. Choose design elements that you love and that help you feel healthy and happy. This living room features a personal art collection and re-upholstered slipper chairs that have an emotional connection for the homeowner.

 

Blog by  Denise O’Connor, Houzz Contributor

Denise holds a degree in architecture from Richview School of Architecture at UCD. After graduating in Dublin she moved to London where she worked on residential, healthcare, and office schemes including the award-winning headquarters for Holiday Extras for which she was a project architect at Walker and Martin. In 2005 she returned to Dublin and set up architecture and interior design consultancy Optimize Design. Denise is an architecture and interiors columnist for the Irish Times and a contributor for HOUZZ. She is also a regular contributor to various other publications and also gives lectures on a range of topics. She was a presenter for the first series of the RTE TV show ‘The Design Doctors’ and is the creator and name behind the successful paint collection for Dulux called Signature Collection.

Premier 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 emailing [email protected] to discuss your remodeling project. We offer no-obligation in-home consultation. Our NARI-certified award-winning designers and craftsmen are eager to work with you to make your vision for your home a reality!  See our portfolio here.

11 Must-Haves in a Designer’s Dream Kitchen

In interior design, it’s important to think big: After all, in some projects, you can’t get everything you want, but you should set the bar high to achieve a great result. But in your dream kitchen, you can have it all — and more. Here I’ve compiled my top 11 must-have design features for a dream kitchen. Some are extravagant, some are just downright practical, and all are worth considering as designer touches you might want to include in your next kitchen renovation — even if for now it’s only in your dreams.

dream kitchenWINN Design+Build

DESIGNING YOUR DREAM KITCHEN

  1. Quartz Counters Quartz is a designer’s dream to work with for many reasons. It’s made using actual stone, so it echoes the natural appeal of materials such as granite or marble. But it is also processed and manufactured in ways that make it strong, nonporous, and color-customizable to create many different looks with good color predictability (as opposed to a stone slab, which can contain more unexpected surprises compared with the sample). This beauty and durability doesn’t come without a price: It is generally more expensive than stone or total synthetics, although the price will vary depending on composition and manufacturer. While granite counters get overexposed on real estate reality shows, quartz is definitely the new must-have for my dream home. Read more about quartz countertops

dream kitchenStock & Associates, Inc.

  1. Custom Cabinets, of course, those beautiful counters will need something on which to rest, so I might as well toss in some sleek custom cabinetry. The advantage of using true custom cabinets vs. typical stock cabinets that can be configured in different combinations is twofold. First, custom cabinets can be fitted perfectly to your kitchen, filling the space precisely and making the best use of corners, spaces between windows, and any height or length of wall.

dream kitchenBrooke Wagner Design

Second, custom cabinets can achieve looks that stock cabinets can’t, especially when integrated with other features such as a banquette seat or kitchen island. This is especially important when going for a sought-after transitional style, where cabinets are desired to be seamless but not ultraminimalist.

Plus, although white tends to be the most in-demand shade, my dream home’s custom cabinets can be any hue I choose.

post architecture inc

  1. A (True) Counter-Depth FridgeIf you’ve gone to the trouble of getting sharply tailored cabinetry, it would be a shame to ruin the lines with a bulky fridge. (Oversized fridges often end up filled with unnecessary food clutter anyway.)Counter-depth refrigerators follow the line of a typical 24-inch-deep counter for a flush look but beware: Some models sold as “counter depth” still stick out a bit past a typical counter when installed. Check the exact dimensions of a model you’re considering, and compare notes with your installer to make sure the lines will truly match up.

dream kitchen

Philadelphia Design Collective

  1. Deep SinkWhile a fridge can sometimes be too big, I’m not sure the same can be said about a kitchen sink. Typical sinks are often around 8 inches deep, but a sink that is 10 inches deep or more (especially a wide one) makes for luxurious ease of use. Being able to easily fit a large pot fully inside the sink for filling or cleaning is very practical. Plus, if you do leave an item or two in the sink to be cleaned later (sitting on top of a perfectly fitted metal sink grate, of course), they won’t be visible in your seemingly bottomless sink.

dream kitchen

Toronto Interior Design Group

A little extra depth is even helpful for tighter sinks, such as those at a bar, prep counter, or butler’s pantry, as it helps avoid splashback when rinsing vegetables or pouring out liquid.

I can speak on this point from my personal experience. I have a deep stainless steel sink in my own kitchen, shown here, and I love it. It’s an easy and affordable upgrade that’s part of my dream home but also part of my real home.

dream kitchen

Anna Braund

  1. Touch-Activated FaucetsWith a sharp, deep sink, let’s make it even easier to use by adding a touch-activated faucet. These smart devices aren’t just for minimalist tech-head homes. They come in a range of styles to suit even more traditional or transitional kitchens. Inside that stylish faucet is a sensor that activates the faucet just from a tap, so you can turn on the water even with your hands occupied. The next time you’re making dough (or just making a mess) and need to rinse off, you’ll be glad you can turn on the faucet with just a tap from your elbow.

dream kitchenTracey Stephens Interior Design Inc

  1. Drawer Dishwashers  Besides looking smart, a drawer dishwasher opens up new intelligent functions. Running a full-sized dishwasher when only partially full is a waste of water, but a unit like this can wash each individual half, giving you more flexibility for the size of the load to be cleaned. Plus, you can be running one drawer while still filling another, so you can clean your often-used items now while other pieces build up a bit over time. Goodbye to waiting an extra day to wash the dishes in my dream home.

dream kitchen

Leona Mozes Photography

  1. Hidden Range HoodI was tempted to include a bold, show-stopper range hood in my perfect kitchen, but I also love one that disappears into custom cabinets, as shown here. Ultimately, I realized that there is no middle ground: The best hoods are either a commanding focal point or quietly hide away to allow other features to speak uninterrupted.

Haefele Design

  1. Steam-Convection OvenLooking to upgrade your cooking? Convection ovens increase the effectiveness of a typical oven by circulating the hot air inside to cook more evenly, making this a modern cooking essential. But newer technology takes that concept one step further with steam-convection combination ovens that some say result in better texture and nutrition. Foods cooked in steam tend to retain more moisture — and thus more vitamins — than foods that are simply baked or boiled. That makes a steam-convection oven not just a part of my dream kitchen, but a step toward healthier eating.

dream kitchen

Highmark Builders

  1. Pro-Style Gas RangeSteam-convection ovens may be high-tech, but when it comes to the range-top, nothing beats the look and power of chef’s kitchen-style burners. Classic red knobs give a punch of color, and the exposed burners on this style of gas range say “Ready to cook.”

dream kitchen

WoodHart Interiors & Design, LLC

  1. Deep DrawersThis is nothing new, but that doesn’t keep it from being in my dream kitchen. Trading out the usual lower cabinets for deep drawers (one or two per traditional cabinet box) gives you easy reach-in access for anything from a large pot to stacks of dinnerware.

Dura Supreme Cabinetry

To improve organization even further, drawer divider systems can break the interior into perfectly sized compartments so everything has its place. Plus, they can be adjusted later if needs change.

Deep drawers are an affordable upgrade too, because many companies provide deeper drawer units at the same cost as a more typical three-drawer model.

dream kitchen

Kube Constructions

  1. Slab BacksplashI thought I had everything I wanted for my dream kitchen with the deep drawers, but then I realized it had to end right back where it started: with a beautiful statement-making stone. The new must-have kitchen look eschews the everyday tile backsplash for the dramatic, custom look of a slab backsplash in the same material as the counters. After all, if you love your quartz counter so much, it makes sense to put the material on a vertical plane to show it off from all angles.I don’t want to be greedy, so that’s everything for my dream kitchen — for now. Your turn: What must-have did I miss from your dream kitchen?

HOUZZ BLOG:  Toronto Interior Design Group is a trusted one-stop-shop residential interior design concierge boutique-style firm crafting timeless interiors.

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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 emailing [email protected] to discuss your remodeling project. We offer no-obligation in-home consultation. Our NARI-certified award-winning designers and craftsmen are eager to work with you to make your vision for your home a reality!  See our portfolio here.

 

8 High-Value Bathroom Upgrades to Know About

If you’re redoing your bathroom, chances are your budget isn’t endless and you need to think carefully about where to spend and where to save. So which upgrades are worth the extra expense and will make a significant difference to the look and functionality of the space? It’s a question we asked three bathroom experts. Here’s what they said.
Synergy Design & Construction

1. Skylight

“Adding a skylight is one of the most effective upgrades you can make to a bathroom,” says Giulianna del Popolo, principal designer at GDP Interior Design. “Having natural light streaming in from overhead creates a serene, spa-like atmosphere. It also means you can do away with having a window, which gives you more scope with shower placement.

“There are many options available, from solar-powered and electrically operable skylights to ones with tinted glass in various sizes and finishes. What you choose will depend on your roof type and budget,” del Popolo says.

“For a new build, plan the skylight early so it’s factored into the roof shape and orientation. If you’re renovating, you’ll need a builder to assess for obstructions in the roof space before you can commit,” she says.

“Also be aware that having constant sun streaming into a bathroom can make it uncomfortably hot, depending on the room’s size and orientation. If this is the case in your bathroom, be sure to invest in some motorized blinds to cut the glare.”

KraftMaster Renovations

2. Integrated Electrical Outlets

“If you have chargeable shavers or electrical toothbrushes or if you plan on using or charging any electrical devices in the bathroom, consider installing electrical outlets inside cabinets or drawers to avoid countertop clutter and messy, dangling power cords,” del Popolo says.

“Power docks aren’t just for custom vanities — you’ll find them in some off-the-shelf vanities too. Just be sure to tell your electrician early on that you want outlets integrated into your vanity or drawers so he or she can plan for them,” she adds.

Shop for bathroom vanities

Agnieszka Jakubowicz PHOTOGRAPHY

3. Mirrored Cabinet

“Upgrading from a regular mirror to a mirrored cabinet will help keep your countertop clear,” del Popolo says. “It’s the perfect spot to house all those small creams, tubes, and bottles at a convenient eye level.

“Mirrored cabinets do not need to be expensive and can either be partially recessed into the wall or surface-mounted. Just be aware that your choice of installation will affect your lighting options for around the mirror,” she says.

Sockeye Homes

4. Exhaust Fan

“Problems with air circulation will bring down even the loveliest of bathrooms,” del Popolo says. “Ensure that you specify an exhaust fan within the design to remove excess moisture and odors, and help prohibit the formation of mold in your bathroom. If you’re concerned about noise, check the labeling and choose an exhaust fan with a lower decibel rating.”

Pollen Architecture & Design

5. Underfloor Heating

“Stepping onto a warm bathroom floor is a joy on those cold winter mornings, and it’s something I’d particularly recommend if you’re designing an en suite,” says Anoushka Allum, interior designer and principal at Anoushka Allum Design. “Be aware that you’ll need to specify it right at the start of the build or remodeling process.”
HomeMasons, Inc

6. Custom Cabinetry

“Custom cabinetry is probably my favorite upgrade as it adds so much to a bathroom,” Allum says.

“Often clients will start off thinking they will buy something off the shelf. However, you can never achieve the perfect fit, look, and functionality this way. I always encourage clients to spend a little more on custom cabinetry so they can achieve an outcome that is completely tailored to their bathroom and their individual needs. And again, it needs to be decided upon in the planning stage of your build or renovation to allow for space planning,” she says.

INS Contractors

7. Drawer Storage

“Upgrading your vanity from a style with doors to one with drawers is worth the extra outlay as it gives you far more functional storage,” says Ashleigh Teune, interior designer at Smarter Bathrooms+. “Drawers are also easier to clean as you don’t have to reach awkwardly into the back of cupboards.”

Raychel Wade Design

8. Shower Niche

“Dispense with the shower shelf and opt for a niche instead,” Teune says. “It provides a neat, practical spot to store shampoos and soap, and it won’t encroach on your standing space in the shower. Plus, a niche creates a far more sophisticated and streamlined look.”

Houzz Article by Georgia Madden

Premier 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 emailing [email protected] to discuss your remodeling project. We offer no-obligation in-home consultation. Our NARI-certified award-winning designers and craftsmen are eager to work with you to make your vision for your home a reality!  See our portfolio here.

 

 

 

7 Stylish New Compact Home Bars

A compact home bar or beverage station is one of those features that can have an outsize impact on the way a home functions. It’s not on the level of a belly-up-to-the-bar-style Irish pub, but a compact home bar can spark a lively atmosphere in a relatively small footprint. Here, designers share details on modestly sized home bars and beverage stations.

Compact Home Bar

Copper Sky Design + Remodel

1. Basement Bragging Rights with a Compact Home Bar

Designer: Micaela Quinton of Copper Sky Design + Remodel
Location: Atlanta
Size: This bar is in a media room that’s 500 square feet (46 square meters); 20 by 25 feet

Homeowners’ request. “This bar and media room was an unusable crawl space before we excavated the basement to create a great entertaining space for this family,” says designer Micaela Quinton, who used Houzz idea books to collaborate with the homeowners on design ideas. “The clients wanted to stay in their charming historic Intown Atlanta home, but they needed more space for their family. They couldn’t go back or up with an addition, so we went down. This media room is a nice, large flex space for them and features a bar with all the bells and whistles, including a beverage fridge, freezer, ice maker, trash pullout, sink, storage, and display shelving.”

Special features. “The tile backsplash and paint colors are really what makes this space so special,” Quinton says. “The tile is a geometric pattern of matte marble and brass. The light blue Sherwin-Williams Debonair cabinet color on the bar is a nice accent to the moody paint color that envelops the rest of the room, including the walls, ceiling, and trim.”

The countertop is Calacatta Cielo marble.

Designer tip.“We painted the walls, ceiling, and all the trim in this room the same deep blue color, Sherwin-Williams Rainstorm,” Quinton says. “It gives the space a moody, cozy feeling that works great in a basement media bonus room. A basement is a great place to go bold on color, and don’t be afraid to use dark colors, even in a space with very little or no natural light.”

“Uh-oh,” moment. “This basement build-out started as an excavation project,” Quinton says. “We turned an unusable crawl space below a historic home into a beautiful basement with 9-foot-high ceilings, a bar, media room, guest bedroom and bathroom, storage room, and home gym.

“The basement excavation process is complex and messy, and it involves structural engineering, a big conveyor belt, and a great deal of hand digging. During that excavation process, the clients were surprised by how much dirt we were removing and the extent of what was happening below their home, which they remained living in throughout the project. But they trusted our due diligence, knowledge, and experience and were thrilled with the results, especially with all the space they gained.”

Tile: Lavaliere mosaic in marble and brass, 12 by 14 inches, Daltile

Compact Home Bar

Kate Roos Design LLC

2. Cool Connection

Designer: Kate Roos of Kate Roos Design
Location: Plymouth, Minnesota

Homeowners’ request.“The primary objective for this kitchen remodel was to open it up to the dining room to allow connectivity between the spaces,” designer Kate Roos says. “Once we looked at our options, it became clear that there would be slightly less storage in the new kitchen, so to solve this, we created a wonderful focal point in the dining room with storage that would take the pressure off of the kitchen. Pantry items, overflow serving ware, wine, and other miscellaneous items can easily fit in this area. This approach to the dining room allowed us to incorporate a beverage refrigerator so guests could help themselves. It also became a wonderful featured area for the client’s art piece, an original watercolor tulip.”

Roos used Houzz Pro business software for her billing, purchase orders, and proposals.

Special features. “We used a combination of white cabinetry with a walnut surround at the serving area to further frame the art,” Roos says. “The walnut is repeated inside the glass cabinetry for continuity. A soft tonal wallpaper is applied to the back for interest and a little shimmer. The quartzite countertop adds an elegant feel while providing a hardworking serving space.”

Designer tip. “The wall that this cabinetry is on varies in depth,” Roos says. “For a unified look, the tall cabinetry on the left is only 15 inches deep while all the other cabinetry on the right is full-depth. It feels consistent even though the depth is different. This was a great way to define the dining room from the living room space.”

“Uh-oh,” moment. “In the wall, we were modifying between the kitchen and the dining room was a duct that we needed to relocate,” Roos says. “It turned out that we could not run the duct in any of the remaining stud bays. After some serious problem-solving, we decided to run the duct behind the tall cabinetry on the left, which reduced the depth of that cabinet from 18 inches to 15 inches. This turned out to be a perfect solution. The 15-inch depth is perfect for pantry items and nothing gets lost.”

Compact Home Bar

Kitchen & Bath Gallery

3. Taken for Granite

Designer: Lauren Dworak of Kitchen & Bath Gallery
Location: Douglas, Massachusetts
Size: 39 square feet (3.6 square meters); 6 by 6½ feet

Homeowners’ request. “They needed this space to be really functional as well as beautiful since their guests would see the space,” designer Lauren Dworak says. “We made sure the details flowed and connected back to the kitchen, with the white cabinets and black granite top. The open shelves were a great way to keep the smaller space lighter and show off beautiful glassware and wine bottles.”

Special features.“The rustic but simple wood floating shelves, sourced locally, gave a really beautiful natural element to the space,” Dworak says. “We wanted to call back to the gorgeous woodlands surrounding the home.”

Designer tip. “Adding plants brought a needed pop of color to the neutral space and again calls back to the surrounding woodlands,” Dworak says. “Also, adding a unique vintage-style faucet added an element of whimsy.”

“Uh-oh,” moment. “It was complicated getting the ice maker, fridge, and sink in the smaller area with door swings and still have some hidden storage space,” Dworak says. “We played with several options to get the best layout for the customer. The drawers ended up working really well for all the small bar tools.”

Faucet: Artifacts Gentleman’s bar faucet, Kohler

Compact Home Bar
East Hill

4. Stylish Simplicity in a Compact Home Bar

Designers: Anthony Maucieri and Lisa Stretton of East Hilland Lisa Schwert Pohlschroeder of Innate Studio
Location: Pelham, New York
Size: 65 square feet (6 square meters)

Homeowners’ request. “There was wasted space adjacent to the kitchen, so we converted it into a butler’s pantry for easier service to the adjacent dining room,” designer Anthony Maucieri says.

Special features. Walnut interiors inside the upper cabinets. Frameless base cabinets with an inset detail above the counter. Quartzite countertops and backsplash.

Designer tip. “Use the interior of glass cabinets to introduce warmth or interest to a space,” Maucieri says. “The inside doesn’t always have to match the outside.”

“Uh-oh,” moment. “There were concerns regarding the walnut stain, Maucieri says. “When the sample was viewed, it was in our showroom in hand, exposed to all different types of light. When installed, the back panel is inset by 13 inches and in a dark cavity, changing the color and darkening the tone. The moment the lights were installed in the cabinets the finish brightened and looked beautiful.”

Compact Home Bar

Cape Home Kitchen & Bath

5. Gorgeous Green

Designers: Kristin Whalen and Jason Fisher of Cape Home Kitchen & Bath
Location: Pocasset, Massachusetts
Size:48 square feet (4.5 square meters); 6 by 8 feet

Homeowner’s request. “This homeowner is a manager for a local distiller that specializes in canned cocktails,” designer Kristin Whalen says. “She wanted an area off the kitchen that would allow guests to be able to help themselves to a drink. She wanted the area to feel clean, crisp, and transitional in design.”

Special features. “The glass-door beverage fridge allows guests to easily see and select their canned cocktail of choice,” Whalen says.

“The Pine Grove green from Grabill Cabinets really stands out as the focal point, with natural cane webbing added to the wall doors for organic texture. The Calacatta Gold quartz countertops and full-height backsplash provide durability and contrast to the space. Finally, the use of mixed metallics — honey bronze cabinet knobs with a matte black faucet — creates visual interest.”

Designer tip. “Consider paneled appliances,” Whalen says. “By paneling the ice maker, we were able to bring a cohesive look to the space and blend this appliance in seamlessly.”

“Uh-oh,” moment. “When we first unboxed the cabinetry, we noticed that the natural cane material had been painted the same Pine Grove green, eliminating the contrast in texture we worked hard to achieve,” Whalen says. “We were able to have the doors remade with the correct material and keep the project moving along.”

Compact Home Bar

Drury Design

6. In the Navy

Designer: Samantha Schoell of Drury Design
Location: Chicago
Size: 4 feet (1.2 meters) wide

Homeowners’ request. “The homeowners were interested in updating their kitchen into a more modern aesthetic that also accentuates their art-and-crafty personalities,” designer Samantha Schoell says. “They not only wanted to have a place to make drinks, a counter space for serving food when entertaining but also a space to showcase their latest art pieces. The homeowners loved the idea of a bar, so I sought to address these core needs by giving them a separate beverage center, adding glass-lit cabinets for their decor to shine, and giving them a small space that makes a large impact.”

Special features. Marble-look quartz countertop. Navy blue custom cabinets. Colorful backsplash accent tile featuring koi fish. Clear glass cabinets with lighting. Crown molding. Craftsman handles and knobs. Beverage fridge. Microwave drawer.

Designer tip. “Placing the bar by the dining area allows beverages to be just a short reach when eating,” Schoell says. “Also, I believe this makes for a smooth transition between kitchen and dining space. Homeowners who love to entertain find bar areas not only a way to keep people out of the cooking space but also gives more space in the main refrigerator by placing all drinks in a separate beverage refrigerator.”

“Uh-oh,” moment.“This Chicago home is over 100 years old, and sticking with the style of the home was a huge factor,” Schoell says. “The home incorporated massive amounts of wood, and the homeowner was having difficulty determining the appropriate color they wanted. They were concerned with how to update an older house to a modern Craftsman style. I made the suggestion to go with a darker blue as I knew it would pair well with the wood features throughout the home and bring in the fun personality of the clients.”

Backsplash accent tile: Koi Pond in turquoise, 6 by 8 inches, Motawi Tileworks

Compact Home Bar

Norman Building & Design

7. Woodsy Wet Bar

Designer: Norman Building & Design
Location: Terrebonne, Oregon

Homeowners’ request. A functional but beautifully detailed wet bar integrated into an entertaining space.

Special features. Custom wood cabinets with ample storage for glassware, wine, and liquor. Refrigerator drawers. Stone tile backsplash. Quartz countertop. Engineered hardwood flooring.

Mitchell Parker – Houzz Editorial Staff. Home design journalist writing about cool spaces, innovative trends, breaking news, industry analysis, and humor.

Premier 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 emailing [email protected] to discuss your remodeling project. We offer no-obligation in-home consultation. Our NARI-certified award-winning designers and craftsmen are eager to work with you to make your vision for your home a reality!  See our portfolio here.

10 Home Renovation Trends for 2022

We love bringing you the best information we can so that you can plan a successful home remodel! The beginning of the year is always fun as we look at trends to share with you and this blog from Architectural Digest shares several experts’ home renovation predictions for 2022.  We hope it inspires and helps you dream big!!

As much as we willed 2021 to be a return to “normal”—or at least a departure from 2020—the year was still an uphill battle full of uncertainty. Some of us slowly returned to an office, which we inhabited only part-time. New commutes began from pandemic-acquired country homes or suburban houses. We tested the waters of in-person hangouts, parties, and vacations. Ultimately, we still spent a lot of time at home. So, what will 2022 bring? It’s hard to say. But to get those dream lists and projects ideating, we tapped 16 experts—from an array of interiors backgrounds—to tell us their home renovation predictions for the new year. Let’s keep on renovating in 2022!

Investments in the home office

“There will be an increase in home offices—homeowners are trading kitchen counters for more professional dedicated spaces. The Zoom fatigue is real, but so is the realization that the backdrop for those visual calls needs to step up. Allocating space for a home office often involves a reset of the room’s function. For example, sitting rooms off of bedrooms or smaller family rooms are converted. Guest rooms also do double duty, with sleepers and desks.” —Jean Brownhill, founder of Sweeten

“We are all becoming more aware of how the layout and aesthetics of a room can affect our energy and productivity. Transforming a current room into your new home office space is not just a fun project, but a necessity for many people who work remotely. When trying to boost the functionality of a home, this room may be at the forefront. People will spend more time and effort in designing a unique working space to maximize their concentration, motivation, and productivity this year.” —Farris Wu, founder and CEO at DecorMatters

“Remember the days of home offices and dining rooms being the first rooms you see when entering a home? Well, those days are back and we’re getting excited about the requests we’re getting from clients focused on creating the perfect home office space. Once unused rooms such as secondary living spaces and breakfast rooms are now being transformed into custom office spaces with built-ins and high-tech solutions such as smart boards, projectors, and wet bars.” —Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla Online Interior Design

Enhanced outdoor spaces and features

“We’ve been bringing the indoors out for a while now, and one of the best ways to accomplish that from a functional perspective is to introduce shade structures like awnings. We see more people making plans for this, as outdoor renovations continue to be a priority as we approach 2022. Aesthetically pleasing shade structures like awnings not only provide comforting protection from the sun but also help make an outdoor space feel more connected and beautiful. Look for fabrics with the seal of recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation, which recognizes safe and effective U.V. sun protection.” —Kirk Fitzsimmons, director of industrial sales at Sunbrella

“Outdoor spaces continue to be in the spotlight with people spending more time at home. Outdoor showers work in all climates and have controls that allow complete control of water flow and temperature. Outdoor showers can be created in a variety of ways, and, typically, the all-in costs are under $1K for most designs. We’re loving the more sculptural and architectural styles that include features such as benches and stone flooring and walls.” —Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla Online Interior Design

“Homeowners are also investing in outdoor rooms. Pools, water features, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and extensive seating and dining areas are high on wish lists. Materials are more organic and natural, such as ipe and travertine. Outdoor kitchens will feature commercial-style grills, refrigerators, and wine coolers. Indoor rooms opening up to terraces with a series of French doors or doors that fold back is another way to connect with the outside.” —Jean Brownhill, founder of Sweeten

“In 2022, we anticipate seeing more and more photos on Houzz of outdoor living rooms that look like indoor rooms. Houzz search data has shown that people want their backyards to be relaxing extensions of their interior living spaces. There have been major advances in outdoor materials in recent years, allowing manufacturers to create stylish and durable outdoor sofas, tables, rugs, chairs, and decor. Add an outdoor fireplace, maybe a TV, and the line between indoors and out seemingly disappears.” —Mitchell Parker, senior editor at Houzz

Texture all around

“Texture is the biggest trend I see for 2022. Say goodbye to flat finish drywall and say hello to a surface you want to run your hands over or engage in a tactile way. Faux finishing has exploded onto the market recently with the advent of materials and processes that make tackling home projects and updates more approachable from a cost and skill perspective. Faux finishing is when you use applied materials to mimic installed materials. A popular use of this technique is creating a faux brick wall, and, if done well, you can barely spot the difference. Homeowners often opt for using a faux finish to achieve the look of Venetian plaster or to mimic concrete or marble.” —David Steckel, Thumbtack home expert

“We’re loving the array of textures found in wallpaper and new lines of paint. We’re finding that clients have become bored with basic paint for wall applications and are now looking for dimension and visual interest. Grasscloth is a great option for more traditional and transitional spaces and brings a soft, subtle yet dimensional addition to a room. We’re also seeing new lines of 3D wall panels popping up, which designers are loving for modern and contemporary projects.” —Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla Online Interior Design

“Textured fabrics are here to stay: Textured fabrics are here to stay. Cream bouclé was huge in 2021, and you see cream textured upholstery everywhere! Different colorways, such as sage greens, pale yellows, pale grays, and blues will be seen in 2022. Texture adds a feeling of warmth to the home, and we tend to gravitate towards tactile and soft-to-the-hand fabrics.” —Peti Lau, trend expert at Kaiyo and interior designer

“Interesting materials are taking a front seat. People are excited about making a sophisticated statement that represents their style and personality. Raw metals and other paneling are frequent requests on our modern and contemporary projects. Natural wood textures with a patina tone are being used more and more on our farmhouse projects and some of our more traditional home projects. With material options these days that can simply be placed on top of existing walls without expensive structural work, people can make a huge transformation without a monstrous investment.” —Matt Mosher, cofounder of Dzinly

“Using textures in the built environment gives it a soul. You want to touch and connect with it, adding a fifth dimension to the experience. The tactile nature of materials brings a richness to how space affects us.” —Jhoiey Ramirez, principal of the Sycamore Collective

Technology from start to finish

“We expect the interior design industry in 2022 to make huge advancements in terms of technology. Digital interior design was already rising before COVID, and now that designers and homeowners have practiced social distancing, we see the efficiency of online interior design becoming even bigger in 2022. We also expect home decor apps, design firms, etcetera, to implement technological changes to their business plan for 2022, as the industry is ever-shifting towards newer technologies. Virtual staging can be done online and easily, as well as furniture shopping with 3D models. Even companies like DecorMatters are implementing artificial intelligence to automatically recommend products to individuals. During 2020, people began turning to their homes as the place for creativity and personalization and therefore capitalized on promoting comfort, character, and bright colors.” —Farris Wu, founder, and CEO at DecorMatters

“Let’s face it. We’re all on our phones, tablets, and computers more than we’d like to admit. The truth is, we don’t just use them for fun or to entertain the kids anymore. We use our devices for work, for school, video conferencing, and even to make our homes smarter. I’m expecting to see clients asking for specialized outlets like the Ultra-Fast Plus Power Delivery with USB-C, or the pop-out outlet from Legrand. These types of outlets allow faster charging and a sleeker appearance due to no longer needing an adapter, and everyone wants that.” —Breegan Jane, interior designer and Legrand brand ambassador

Going bold

“I think we’ll be seeing a lot more wallpaper because of the ease homeowners experience when having it installed or swapped out and the freedom it offers to show off your personality. Current trends show homeowners using wallpaper with bold patterns in rooms where they want to experiment with color and texture. I especially think we’ll continue to see this in nurseries and children’s rooms.” —David Steckel, Thumbtack home expert

“2021 was a year where people expressed their individuality through unique colors, which can provide emotion and feeling to a room! Additionally, last year brought awareness of individual mental health and wellness. With that being said, color therapy is on the rise. Popular colors we expect to see include pinks, burnt oranges, and peacock blues to represent a tropical getaway, as well as greens to mirror nature’s elements. There will be more unique color contrasts in the kitchen, between the countertops and backsplash, or the cabinets and the island. With the rise and focus on creating a home we love to stay in, people will want to bring as much life to their indoor space as possible in 2022—color is an amazing and affordable way to do so.” —Farris Wu, founder and CEO at DecorMatters

“Dark is the new white. For the last several years, white has been a dominant force in color choice for both new homes and exterior renovation. We are seeing a strong interest in dark neutrals and naturals. For example, natural wood paneling with a dark stain or changing from a light-colored house to a bold, dark gray is becoming increasingly popular. We expect this trend to continue gaining traction for the foreseeable future. Sherwin-Williams Urbane Bronze, Benjamin Moore Black Knight, Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore, and Benjamin Moore Iron Mountain are excellent darks with a timeless hue.” —Matt Mosher, cofounder of Dzinly

Creating side-hustle spaces

“2022 will also see the rise of the “side-hustle bedroom.” With an entrepreneurial mindset, especially for Gen Z and Millennials making everything from candles to hats, the bedroom will take on flexible layers of activity, from filming set to the creative studio, warehouse to shipment facility. Whether creating or promoting products or just shooting TikTok videos, bedroom aesthetics for younger generations become backdrops for personal branding.” —Gemma Riberti, head of interiors at WGSN Lifestyle & Interiors

Being green, literally and figuratively

“I think greens will be a huge factor in home renovations in 2022. People want their homes to feel fresh but still comforting, and green is the perfect paint color to create that feeling! I recently remodeled my own bedroom with Sherwin-Williams Evergreen Fog SW 9130 and I love the tone it sets for the space.” —Beth Diana Smith, founder of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design

“So many homeowners are inspired by historic and organic references as of late, which pairs with Yelp’s research showing that searches for reclaimed materials are up by 38%. I can see the majority of home projects in 2022 being centered around getting back to the root of materials. For example, stripping down lacquered cabinetry to expose the unfinished walnut underneath or replacing existing countertops for a marble slab with raw edges—there’s something perfectly imperfect about reclaimed materials that help your space really begin to tell a story.”—Jeremiah Brent, interior designer

“Plantlife has been working its way into homes in more creative ways, and we’re seeing innovations happen daily. Most recently, herb fridges have become a new kitchen appliance feature that is not only full of function but also stylish and urban with glass fronts showcasing the greenery bringing an organic touch to kitchen spaces.” —Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla Online Interior Design

“The pandemic created the realization of health, the environment, and being less materialistic. With that being said, reusing furniture, pursuing materials that support the environment, promoting recycling, and holding meaning will be popular next year. Not to mention, natural materials like wood, rattan, clay, stone, etc. pair perfectly with any style, color, or material. These textures add warmth and lightness to home decor and make us feel like we’re on vacation in our home since many of us are unable to travel.” —Farris Wu, founder, and CEO at DecorMatters

“Awareness of our environment and of Mother Nature makes us conscious of our carbon footprint and how we affect our planet. Using sustainable materials and lighting that consumes less energy brings less guilt in how we manage our planet and, thankfully, they look good too!” —Jhoiey Ramirez, principal of the Sycamore Collective

Connecting with nature

“Homeowners have been requesting more natural light in their homes through bigger window and door openings for years, and that’s a trend clearly continuing into 2022. People are increasing the natural light in their homes and creating a more direct connection with nature by adding doors where there were once windows or adding larger windows for a greater sense of connection to the outside. We’ve noticed homeowners embarking on remodeling work to replace more traditional patio doors with large scenic versions to create a connection between interior and exterior spaces for more seamless transitions and a sense of freedom.” —Christine Marvin, chief marketing and experience officer at Marvin

“We are continuing to lean into a soft modern aesthetic that is rooted in organic wood tones and clean, natural colors. The absence of excess creates a positive impact on well-being and inspires a sense of connection with nature. Additionally, many homeowners are embracing uplifting hues based in nature such as Blue Lagoon, Dried Thyme, and Monarch Gold.” —Stephanie Pierce, director of design and trends at MasterBrand Cabinets

“Cool tones are gone and warm tones are here to stay—think greens, ochre, terra-cotta, oatmeal-beige, and greige. We are moving beyond classic white and blue kitchens and gravitating toward colorways that remind us of nature. Because we have not been able to travel, inspiration will come from the colors of Arizona and the Sedona Mountains, the mustard tones of Yellowstone, or from Aspen when the trees turn. Look for beautiful, subdued jewel tones in nature-inspired colors, rather than bright, loud colors.” —Peti Lau, trend expert at Kaiyo and interior designer

Durable surfaces

“Homeowners are expecting greater performance from surfaces in their homes, especially as the majority of us are still spending a lot of time at home and cleaning our countertops more often, meaning they need to stand up to extra scrubbing. As homeowners continue to get savvier about the maintenance required for many popular countertop options, we’re seeing a rise in demand for acrylic solid surfaces that are seamless and offer durability with no additional maintenance, yet don’t compromise on sleek, beautiful design.” —Gerri Chmiel, residential design lead at Formica Corporation

https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/home-renovation-trends-2022

Photo credit:  The outdoor space at Jeremiah Brent’s Montauk home features a variety of the trends we’ll see in 2022.Courtesy of Jeremiah Brent

Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

Remodeling on your mind?  Tri-Lite Builders is an award-winning remodeler with years of experience.  We focus primarily on amazing kitchens, luxurious bathrooms, and large whole-home remodeling projects that include outdoor living spaces. You can learn more about us here. Ready to start? Give us a call at (480) 895-3442 for a free consultation.  We look forward to making your dreams a reality!

How to Equip the Perfect Bathroom According to Your Lifestyle

Whether you’re looking for luxury at home or caring for an elderly loved one, your bathroom design can make a big difference in how you live your life. With the right décor and a few helpful features in place, you can enjoy a beautiful, comfortable bathroom that serves your needs. From a luxe spa-like retreat in the master bathroom to a cozy guest bath tucked in a hallway, it’s easy to elevate this part of your home and take it to the next level. Check out these helpful tips to guide you and give you inspiration so that you can design the ultimate bathroom according to your unique lifestyle.

Essentials for a Luxurious Bathroom

You can live a life of luxury in your own bathroom if you have the right fixtures, finishes, and accessories. Here are some ideas that will transform your bathroom into a stunning spa.

Smart gadgets. Bring in some smart gadgets and AI technology to make your bathroom more convenient. A voice-activated Bluetooth shower speaker lets you listen to your favorite music while you scrub. Try a few other high-end gadgets in your bathroom, like electric towel warmers, a lighted toilet seat, and a touch-free liquid soap dispenser.

Make it trendy. Update the lighting and fixtures in your bathroom to give it a modern aesthetic. Choose new designs featuring on-trend finishes like matte black or sleek brushed gold. One easy way to keep up with the current bathroom trend is to switch out your towels, shower curtain, and bath rugs to keep things fresh and new.

Enjoy a sauna. If you have the budget, consider installing a beautiful sauna in your bathroom to help you detox and relax. You can also create your own sauna-like environment to relieve those aching muscles and de-stress at the end of the day.

Upgrade the tile. A luxe bathroom should have high-end finishes, so consider changing your old ceramic bathroom tiles to something a bit more refined. Installing marble tiles is a fabulous way to create a luxe look and give your bathroom a sophisticated vibe.

Install a huge shower. Don’t suffer in a tiny shower or a cramped tub-and-shower combo. Upgrade your shower, and make it huge, with more than one showerhead, for an awesome experience. Finish the new shower with glass doors and some high-end tile on the floor and surround.

Choose nice mirrors. Stay away from basic, contractor-grade mirrors if you want a luxurious bathroom. Update your mirrors to something sleek and unique with decorative frames, unusual shapes, and a sleek gold or silver metallic finish.

Consider a Japanese toilet. Japanese toilets have an elongated shape and typically extend from the bowl to the floor for a seamless look. These gorgeous toilets will instantly elevate your bathroom and give it a beautiful, contemporary vibe.

Finish with artwork. Express yourself in your new bathroom by hanging some select pieces of artwork. It can be anything from a beautiful painting of a pastoral landscape to a colorful modern abstract piece. The key is to use the artwork to round out your luxurious bathroom theme.

Design a “Couple Goals” Bathroom

Whether you’re a newlywed couple or you’re simply tired of sharing a cramped bathroom, here are some suggestions to help you update this space to make sharing easier.

Convert your bathtub to a hot tub. A roomy jetted tub for two is a wonderful way to spend some alone time together as a couple. Replace your standard bathtub with a deep tub featuring massaging jets, whirlpool action, and LED lighting.

Make sure you have two sinks. Reaching over each other when you get ready in the morning is a drag. Consider installing a larger vanity with two separate sinks so you’ll both have enough elbow room to brush your teeth and start your day on a positive note.

Stay organized with a walk-in closet. A small closet can become cluttered fast. If you have the square footage, have a nice walk-in closet added to your bathroom. This will give both of you room to hang up your duds and store your shoes so that your bedroom and bathroom aren’t constantly overrun with clothes.

Add a big mirror. That tiny mirror over your sink isn’t enough to help you see everything you need to see. Update your small bathroom mirror, and hang a large, full-size mirror on the wall—or try a freestanding, full-length mirror in the corner of your bathroom so you can see yourself from head to toe.

Keep your stuff separate. Make sure that both of you have plenty of room to organize your cosmetics, razors, and toiletries by creating two separate storage areas. This can be additional storage under each sink or a mirrored medicine cabinet up above. The goal is to make your couple’s bathroom convenient, clean, and spacious enough that you both feel welcome, whether you’re in there alone or with your other half.

Make it smell good. Freshen up the bathroom with some essential oil diffusers so that the room always has a pleasant fragrance. Make sure you both agree on a scent that you like so it’s not overpowering for the other person.

 How to Equip a Little-Kid and Family-Friendly Bathroom

Of course, the kids need a fabulous bathroom that accommodates their needs, too. Check out these easy tips to equip your child’s bathroom in a way that makes using it fun and easy.

Use kid-proof accessories. To ensure that the bathroom is safe for little ones, you’ll need some additional accessories. Add outlet covers so that tiny fingers don’t get into trouble, and install a lock on the toilet to keep it shut until it’s potty time. Grippy stickers or a non-slip bath mat on the bottom of the tub will help prevent children from slipping and falling. Never store cleaning supplies or medication in your child’s bathroom.

Remember the tub. Most tubs aren’t designed for toddlers, so you may want to choose something else in the meantime. You can find bathtubs for children that can be a temporary place for kids to bathe until they’re old enough to use the full-size tub.

Hang colorful bathroom curtains. Select an adorable theme or kid-friendly color scheme, and use it for bathroom curtains, rugs, and décor. This can be anything from your child’s favorite character to soft pastel colors or a whimsical jungle theme.

Have plenty of shelving. Install some wall-mounted shelving, or bring a small cabinet into the family bathroom so your kids have a place to keep everything. Shelving is perfect for tub toys, shampoos, and other items, and you can paint in a coordinating color or choose something with a cute design to make the bathroom welcoming for the little ones.

Make sure there’s good lighting. Install bright LED lighting in the kids’ bathroom so they can see things easily. A motion-activated night light will help your child see in the dark if they need to use the bathroom in the middle of the night.

Solving Bathroom Problems for Seniors

Senior-related bathroom accidents are common and can cause serious injuries. Here are some ways you can improve the safety of the bathroom and maintain the quality of life for your senior loved one.

Install a handicapped toilet. Toilets for seniors should have a taller height that makes it easier to get up and down. The standard ADA toilet height should be approximately 17-19 inches from the floor to the bowl rim. Add some grab bars so that they can hang onto something whenever they need to.

Offer an emergency button. An emergency call button in the bathroom will alert you or your loved one’s caregiver if something is wrong. These buttons sound an alarm so that others in the home will know that the senior needs assistance. If your senior lives alone, choose an emergency button that will immediately alert local emergency services so they can rush over to help.

Use a tub or shower chair. Bathroom chairs for the elderly are designed to help them maintain balance while bathing. These chairs are waterproof, stable, and sturdy for a comfortable, safe shower.

Keep it simple. A minimalist bathroom design is best for seniors so that there isn’t a lot of stuff getting in the way. Look for sturdy wall hooks and towel hangers that they can use to keep towels and bathrobes off the floor. The less clutter you have in the bathroom, the safer it will be for seniors to navigate.

Try a walk-in tub. Walk-in tubs and showers are best for seniors since they prevent having to “climb over” the edge. These tubs are perfect for the elderly who want to age in place and prefer to live at home rather than in an assisted living facility.

Install grab bars. Grab bars on the shower and bathtub walls and next to the toilet will give your loved one something to hang onto if they feel dizzy or tired. These bars can be found at most home improvement stores and do an excellent job at providing seniors with some extra stability in the bathroom.

Check the dimensions. Seniors who use a wheelchair should have a bathroom door that’s at least 34-inches wide. The inside of the bathroom should have a minimum of a five-foot radius so they can easily turn around. You should also ensure that there are at least 27 inches of clearance under the sink for the wheelchair. Hang mirrors low enough so that seniors don’t have to strain or stand on their tiptoes in the bathroom.

From a luxurious, spa-like master bathroom to a safe bathroom for seniors, designing a bathroom that fits your lifestyle and your needs will make your life that much easier. Keep these tips in mind to make sure you have everything you need, and watch your fixtures, tub styles, and colors come together in a beautiful, functional space you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Written by Cassandra Rosas and originally posted on Porch.com

Learn more about Tri-Lite Builders here.

The Three Zones of a Kitchen

Did you know that your kitchen has zones? They do!!  Kitchens are often thought of as one large room that you and your family frequent throughout the day.  To squash that one-room concept, we are going to share that your kitchen has three zones.  To help you get the best kitchen remodel, you will want to focus on these three zones.  In fact, these zones are so important that contractors often refer to this as the golden triangle of the kitchen design.  The three zones of a kitchen work together to create a highly functional space.  Ready to identify them?

The Three Zones of the Kitchen

  1. The Refrigeration Zone

This area is where you will place all the food items that you bring into your kitchen, plus it is where you will begin to prepare all your food. Therefore, you will want to make sure that you have a countertop near this space, as well as storage for utensils, mixing bowls, and other food prep items. You may even want to place your pantry, small appliances, and cookbooks nearby so that it is all within reach when you need them.

  1. The Sink (Prep & Clean-Up) Zone

This zone should be somewhere between the refrigerator and the cooking area and should be centrally located. This area is always used for cleaning and cutting produce, and washing up after meals, so you will want to have recycling and trash containers placed nearby. Since this is where your dishwasher is also going to be located, you will want to install your cabinets and drawers here for your most used (place settings and silverware).

  1. The Cooking (and/or Bake) Zone

The cooking zone is where your stove and oven are in your kitchen. You will want countertops for placing items before and after they come out of the oven. We recommend installing cabinets here to hold items like platters, serving bowls, pots, pans, and other equipment that you will need while cooking. This is also a great area for your cooking utensils and spices.

Kitchen Design and Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

Once you begin to think of your kitchen with three zones, it will be easier for you to design your new kitchen and to create a kitchen that will flow seamlessly as you are cooking and entertaining. Call us at (480) 895-3442 when you would like to discuss remodeling your kitchen with our award-winning designers and builders.

 

5 Things That Your Luxurious Bathroom Needs

This year has been difficult, filled with stresses that we did not see coming. However, it has also provided opportunities as we hunker down with our families and friends within our space. You have possibly taken more time looking at your home and have begun dreaming about what you would change if you remodeled.  Bathrooms are always at the top of that list!  Bathrooms are an underutilized space that can be made to serve you better. Maybe we have spent too much time in spas, but we believe that everyone needs to have those luxurious spaces inside their own home.

Here are 5 things that your luxurious bathroom needs:

  1. Heated Floors

Heated floors are fabulous because you will never need to walk on a cold bathroom floor in the middle of the night again! The biggest benefit of floor-heating systems is their ability to uniformly heat a room and floor. Stepping out of the shower or the bathtub with heated floors makes all the difference!

  1. Dimmer Switches

We know that taking a long hot bath is something that you love to do, but do you really want the bright lights on when you are soaking in your tub? We recommend installing dimmer switches on your lights so that you can lower the brightness of the lights and turn the room into a calming oasis.

  1. Heated Toilet Seat

There are many new toilets on the market and the best ones have heated seats. Imagine going into the bathroom in the middle of the night and not freezing as you sit down. This can be a new reality for you and your family if you install a toilet with a heated seat.

  1. Handheld Showerhead

Rainshower showerheads are fabulous, but you may want to install a handheld showerhead as well. This will give you more water flowing over you as you are showering, and the handheld will make it easier to rinse off.

  1. Humidistat Fan

Moisture can build up quickly in your bathroom and we can almost guarantee that there have been times when you have forgotten to turn on the fan before you stepped into the shower. A humidistat fan will go on automatically as soon as the humidity or moisture in the room reaches a certain level. This fan will ensure that you will not have moisture or mold issues inside your luxurious bathroom space.

It can be easy to turn your bathroom into a luxurious space and it may not mean a complete renovation either. Call us to talk and learn about all your options for turning your bathroom into a room of luxury.

Our lead designer and professional craftsmen at Homework Remodels have years of experience helping homeowners design and build award-winning custom bathrooms. During the COVID pandemic, we offer free virtual and safe in-home consultations.  When we work on your remodeling project, we take all the necessary precautions to keep you and our craftsmen safe. Give us a call at (480) 895-3442 to discuss your upcoming bathroom remodeling project.  We will do the homework for you and help you love your home again!

You can find some of our remodeled bathrooms here!

Splurge on These 4 Items for your Kitchen Remodel

Amid a lot of change and additional hardship that this year has brought, there is nothing like moving forward and creating positive transformation like the remodel project you have wanted to do since, well, forever!  So that kitchen remodel you have been thinking about, let’s do it! While you are in the planning stage, there are certain items, we suggest, you should splurge on.  Splurging on these 4 items for your kitchen remodel can improve the time you spend in your kitchen plus add even more value to your new space.

Splurge on these 4 items for your kitchen remodel:

Interior Storage Solutions for Kitchen Cabinets

Interior storage solutions for kitchen cabinets do not have to cost a fortune. They will, however, make it easier to organize and use your kitchen.  Storage items you should splurge on when it comes to your new cabinets include roll-out trays, trash and recycle bins, pullout pantries, and vertical storage.  A Lazy-Susan is a great addition to any kitchen’s corner cabinet, as it will make it easier for you to access items inside that cabinet. There are also several items on the market a homeowner can install that assist in the optimum function of your kitchen.

Quartz or Granite Countertops

Countertops can be made from many different materials, but your best option is quartz or granite. Both are durable and easy to keep clean.  Quartz is virtually non-porous, as it is a man-made material of ground-up stone particles and resin. Granite is porous, but this is not necessarily a bad characteristic, as our fabricator applies a sealer to protect it from absorbing liquids.  Many people look for quartz or granite in homes they are considering purchasing. Quartz or Granite countertops will help you recoup your money if you decide to sell in the future.

Floor

Your kitchen floor will see a lot of traffic, so you will want to splurge on a material that will last. Stained concrete, porcelain tiles, or luxury vinyl planks will add a luxurious look and feel to your remodeled kitchen and are worth the additional cost.  Stained concrete, potentially the most expensive option, has a modern look and is easy to maintain.  Porcelain tiles are manufactured to look like most flooring materials from stone, wood, and concrete to mosaics.  The ones we suggest are called color body porcelain, as the body of the tile is similar in color to the face. If the tile happens to chip, the color you see looks similar to the face of the tile and helps conceal the chip.  Luxury vinyl planks are a vinyl material attached to a click type structure for a floating installation method.  This newer product has added benefit with water resistance, backing for sound, and weight transfer absorption as well as coming in a multitude of product renderings from wood to stone tiles.

Beverage cooler

And last, but not least, if you are like a lot of homeowners these days, then you may want to consider installing a beverage cooler in your new kitchen. This cooler will free up space in your refrigerator which almost everyone needs!  If you store these items in another space in your home, you will no longer need to leave your kitchen to grab a drink. These coolers can hold soda, juice boxes, wine, beer, and more which is perfect for when you are entertaining.

Splurging on some items in your new kitchen will be well worth it. However, you will want to choose wisely what you are spending your money on because it is not necessary to spend thousands of dollars on every single part of your new space. There are certain items that you can spend a lot less money on and still get the results that you want. We can help you with that!

Our professional Lead Designer and Craftsmen here at Homework Remodels have years of experience helping homeowners design and build award-winning custom kitchens. Our work has been featured in a variety of magazines both in print and online and won NARI awards. Please give us a call at (480) 895-3442 to discuss your upcoming kitchen remodeling project.

Check out all our remodels for ideas and look for your next kitchen remodel here.

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