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19 Oct 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Home Improvements, Interior Design, Paint Trends Permalink

10 Paint Colors Ready to Take Over in 2024

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On October 19, 2023

Every year we track and profile the various Color of the Year selections made by major paint brands. Usually, there’s little consensus on what the hip hue for the new year will be. But every so often there’s a bit of agreement. And this is one of those times.

Clearly, blue is about to have a big year in 2024. Six out of the 10 companies featured in this article chose a shade of blue for their 2024 Color of the Year selections. The remaining colors run the gamut from dark and moody to warm and welcoming.

2024 Color of the Year

Let’s take a closer look at the paint colors you’re about to see a lot more of.

1. Upward by Sherwin-Williams

Taking inspiration from the sky above, Sherwin-Williams has selected this breezy, tranquil light blue as its selection for 2024 Color of the Year. Upward has a touch of gray in it, which makes it a sophisticated alternative to a more pastel baby blue.

This is an excellent blue paint if you’re looking to add color but want to keep your space light and bright. For instance, while dark navy blues have been popular recently for kitchen cabinets, this lighter shade might be a better option if your kitchen is on the smaller side or lacks abundant natural light. I can also see this color working well as a blue option for a porch ceiling.
Searching for the Perfect Paint Color? Try Our Color Finder Tool

2. Thermal by C2

Here’s another pretty, soft blue, this one a touch darker than the previous pick. As you can see, it works really well on kitchen cabinetry. It infuses color into the space but remains soft and tranquil.

I could also see this working well in a bathroom, whether on the walls or for cabinetry. Or consider using it as an accent color on just the ceiling. It’s a trick that can visually enlarge and open up a room, especially if it has low ceilings, as the color mimics the sky on a clear, sunny day.

3. Renew Blue by Valspar

Valspar’s selection is one of my favorites here. Watery blues are my go-to hues when I want to inject vibrant color into a home. It has a tropical “on vacation” vibe that plays well with warm or cool neutrals.

This brings up an important point: While you might enjoy checking out all of the Color of the Year announcements, you shouldn’t feel as though it’s a call to redecorate using these colors. Rather, if you see something here that you like, you can look forward to that color being featured more prominently in decorative materials and housewares in the coming year, should you want to add the hue to your home.

How to Mix Colors and Make It Work

4. Bay Blue by Minwax

Here’s a darker watery blue option that’s actually a wood stain. And the great thing about a wood stain, versus paint, is that it allows the beautiful grain and texture of the wood to show through while adding a fun, vibrant color.

5. Skipping Stones by Dunn-Edwards

This medium blue shade reminds me of summer afternoons spent at the pool. It’s a cool blue, so it’s a great color choice for those residing in hotter climates. It can bring a soothing, cooling vibe to a bathroom, bedroom, or sunroom.

Dunn-Edwards’ Skipping Stones would also make a terrific front door color for those residing in any climate. As shown here, it injects a lovely dash of color into this otherwise all-white exterior.

I recently specified a similar hue for a homeowner’s interior doors and it really dressed up the indoor spaces nicely.

6. Blue Nova by Benjamin Moore

The chilliest of the blue selections, Blue Nova is a medium-dark shade with purple undertones. Similar to Skipping Stones, I think this color works best if you need to visually cool off a space.

I’d use this color a bit more sparingly since it’s rather dark. But it would be lovely for a front door or as an accent in a bedroom or bathroom.

7. Limitless by PPG and Glidden

For those looking to infuse their homes with warmer hues, PPG and Glidden’s selection of Limitless might be more to your liking. This soft champagne hue works well as a backdrop to darker wood tones, as well as warm metallics.

Sunny shades such as Limitless can be called upon to help lighten and brighten a space, so if you have a dark, cramped room in the house that needs an infusion of luminous warmth, this could be the hue for you.

8. Persimmon by HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams

While warmer shades might be in the minority here, this one really stands out to me for its soft yet spicy quality. Persimmon is a lightened shade of earthy terra cotta, shown here on a kitchen island.

It’s an appetizing hue that lends itself well for use in a kitchen, dining room, or other spaces in your home where you regularly gather for meals and conversation with family and friends.

9. Cracked Pepper by Behr

I’m a longtime fan of Cracked Pepper. It’s a neutral dark gray that sits on the color spectrum just a tiny hair from black. In fact, I like to use it in place of pure black, as the latter can often appear too harsh or intense in and on a home.

Cracked Pepper is a true neutral in that it has neither warm nor cool undertones, so it can work well as an accent or trim color along with any other color or colors.

10. Ironside by Dutch Boy

Dutch Boy also went for a deep and moody hue, this one a dark olive green with ashy brown undertones. This is a shade I’m seeing more and more of lately, typically used on cabinetry and millwork. It gives a cozy, intimate vibe to a space, making it a great choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms.

Your turn: What do you think of the 2024 Color of the Year selections? Which would you pick?

Houzz Article by Jennifer Ott: San Francisco-based architectural color specialist and design writer. Jennifer’s work has been featured in many print and online publications. Her recently published book, “1000 Ideas for Color Schemes,” is a beautifully illustrated and easy-to-navigate guide that takes the guesswork out of selecting the perfect color palette for your home or special event. For more information on Jennifer Ott Design, visit http://jenottdesign.com/.

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.

15 Jun 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Design, Home Improvements, Lifestyle, Trends Permalink

Common Decorating Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On June 15, 2023

If you’re scratching your head over why the decor in your home leaves you feeling slightly underwhelmed, a remedy — or at least an improvement — may be just a few moves away. Whether it’s a bland room, a paint color you’re not quite sure about, or throw pillows that refuse to sit right, here are some tweaks that can help turn common decorating mistakes into resounding wins, along with examples of rooms that do it right. And remember that a good interior designer can help you pinpoint issues and come up with creative solutions as well.

Rose’s Drapery Designs

Common Decorating Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Your Dark Walls Need a Lift

If you’ve been tempted by the elegance and drama of inky indigos, gunmetal grays, and midnight blacks but they’re making your room feel a little closed-in, here’s how to dump the dungeon feeling.

What to do: Good lighting is essential to reveal the tonal complexities in deep, saturated darks. Multiple light sources allow you to control the ambiance and light direction. Combine uplights and downlights as in this bedroom and don’t let the ceiling disappear into gloom.

Also, bear in mind that an over-furnished room will seem more cave-like than one that’s simply furnished. Clear out clutter and nonessential furniture.

Chandos Interiors

“The darker the night, the brighter the stars,” Dostoyevsky wrote. Your bold move gives you the perfect excuse to indulge in rich, theatrical color contrasts. Play up dark walls with jewel tones, natural wood, reflective metallics, greenery, and dramatic artwork.

Far from restricting a color palette, dark walls come to life when used with shades such as pale aqua and mint, silver-gray, teal, mustard, dusky pink, and pumpkin yellow. And you can never go wrong with white.

Another approach is to simply surrender to your dark side and go moody and monochrome. Texture and layering are key to nailing this look. Think dusky velvets, slubby linens, and sensuous silks.

LU Design Build

Your Shelves Are Bursting at the Seams

Putting every ornament you own on open shelves often leads to a distracting mishmash of nondescript items. Serious sorting is needed to create some focus.

What to do: I recommend organizing expert Marie Kondo’s life-changing advice of honoring items, then letting them go. Another motto may be “Beautiful, interesting, or out.” Empty your shelves and create “yes” and “no” piles. You don’t have to throw items away, but this is a good chance to do the Kondo. Use shelf space in a way that enhances every object.

10 Times to Hire an Interior Designer

Klopper and Davis Architects

Once you’ve reduced your candidates to the beautiful and meaningful, let them shine. You might want to paint the back of the shelves to emphasize lovely shapes and colors among your chosen collection; white items against a dark shade really stand out. Avoid highly patterned or textured backgrounds since they can be confusing to the eye.

Rather than lining books up soldier-style, stack some to form bookends and mini shelves, choosing intriguing titles and spines that coordinate with your display.

CRx – The Cure for the Common Build

Your Sofa Is Pale and Interesting but Impractical

You somehow forgot that a dog, a cat, two toddlers, sticky fingers, raspberry cordial, and pet hair doesn’t go with light sofas.

What to do: Have the fabric professionally cleaned and treated. Be aware that no stain-proofing is infallible and that its effectiveness depends on the fabric. Modern formulas penetrate fibers and enable most liquid and other residues to be removed. DIY aerosol sprays are a short-term solution, but they only coat the surface and wear away after one cleaning.

Drape sofa throws casually, and pile on big pillows to deflect the worst of spills and grime. Another solution is to opt for slipcovers that can go in the washing machine when dirty. If you want to leave sofas bare, vacuum often with a spotlessly clean brush attachment. In the event of a spill, blot carefully and never rub.

Madison Nicole Design

Your Vignettes Look Like Bargain Tables

Vignettes are a lovely way to show off treasures and create character. They’re pocket-sized portraits of your personality, so if you haven’t mastered the knack, read on.

What to do: Start with an anchor piece and build from it. Asymmetry avoids a stiff, formal look. Contrast shapes and textures. Connect with a theme, color, or mood.

Decorating 101: The ABCs of Arranging Vignettes

Bria Hammel Interiors

Your Living Room Doesn’t Feel Friendly

We want guests to be impressed by our home’s public spaces, but often style takes precedence over comfort and we end up with a dressy living room that feels stiff and unwelcoming.

What to do: The problem may simply be in how the furniture is positioned. Seating should be arranged in a way that encourages social interaction. When deciding where to put sofas and armchairs, imagine how sitters will communicate with one another. Put seating close enough to encourage conversation rather than back against the walls, which can leave you with no man’s land in the center of the room.

Domus Nova

There’s nothing like humor to put guests at ease, so add some whimsical touches to your living spaces. You may not want a giant bowler-hatted giraffe stealing the show, but he’s sure to break the ice.

See the latest living rooms

Susan Yeley Homes

You Can’t Get the Hang of Hanging Art

Whether art to you means canvas or framed prints, blown-up photographs, a priceless original, a treasured heirloom, or your child’s finger painting, its impact depends on the way it’s displayed. Are you getting the best out of yours?

What to do: If art is a defining feature in your home, calling upon the services of a professional hanger is a good investment. A common mistake is hanging art too high. Consider the human scale and hang artwork with the center point at eye level in spaces where people stand, and lower where it’s viewed from a seated position.

CDC Designs

Your White Kitchen Is Practical but Lacks Warmth

Kitchens are in the limelight more than ever — and often open to other living areas. While all-white is common, clinical coldness can creep in.

What to do: Kitchenware has moved beyond functional to become something worthy of display. Appliances come in a rainbow of colors and styles, and cookware is designed to be seen. Don’t hide all this beauty away in cupboards: Hang great-looking saucepans from wall hooks, leave a stack of pretty dishes out on display, or set a bowl filled with fruits or veggies on the counter.

Kitchen designer Anne Ellard believes a white kitchen is the perfect blank canvas. “Add bold flourishes of color with accessories such as books, flowers, or small appliances, all of which can easily be changed,” Ellard says. “Or make your pop of color even grander with a colorful backsplash.”

Bright artwork, wood accessories, potted plants, and mini herb gardens help relieve sterility and make a sleek kitchen feel more like home.

Laura Nathan Design

Your Focal Points Are All Over the Place

If you walk into a room and nothing — or everything — catches your eye, then it has no focal point. This much-used designer’s term simply means a primary place for the eye to rest before taking in the whole space. A room without one lacks life, balance, and harmony.

What to do: A focal point could be an architectural feature, a view, a piece of art, a fireplace (as in this space by 50 Degrees North) a statement furniture piece, a mirror, a textural surface, or a stunning rug. It’s easier to start with a focus and plan the rest of the room’s decor around it. If you prefer to work with what you already have, decide what the focal feature will be and then arrange existing furniture to direct attention toward it.

Imperfect Interiors

You Can’t Control Your Pillow Habit

We all know one: a pillow addict who doesn’t know when to stop. Perhaps it’s you? Get help here.

What to do: Pillows heaped high on sofas, chairs, and beds don’t always add much to a room. If you can’t sit on a sofa or lie on a bed without putting pillows on the floor, they lose their purpose. As in this living room, try to restrict pillows to two at each end of a sofa, one (or none) on an armchair, and three on a bed.

Street Monkey Architects

You Haven’t Changed Anything in Years

Has decor ennui crept in? You could just be tired of the same old, same old. We all have favorite styles, but it’s easy to get stuck in a groove.

What to do: Shake things up. Reignite your passion and inject new energy and interest into your home by mixing up what you already have or adding some inexpensive new accessories. Change bedding and pillows and move houseplants, chairs, lamps, and rugs around. Reposition furniture for a fresh perspective — it’s cheap as well as fun. This bedroom shows how a few well-chosen accessories can make for a pretty and inviting space.

This blog is written by Janet Dunn, Houzz Australia Contributor. Former NZ House&Garden writer and stylist, and avid interior design enthusiast. Ex-restaurateur and caterer, with a Professional Certificate in Gastronomy, University of Adelaide.

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23 Jan 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Design, Home Improvements, Paint Trends, Trends Permalink

Every 2023 Color of the Year We Know So Far

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On January 23, 2023

2023 Colors of the Year

Each fall, paint companies, and interior design experts predict the colors that will shape our homes in the coming year. While the hues of 2022 centered around back-to-nature shades of green, the 2023 colors of the year are all about self-expression.

[Photo: Jim Franco]

See which paint colors the pros have forecasted thus far, then check back to find out all the predictions for the 2023 colors of the year as they’re announced.

[Photo: Courtesy of Pantone]

Viva Magenta by Pantone

Rounding out a year of blush-tone selections, Pantone selected Viva Magenta 18-1750, a bold pinkish red, as its 2023 color of the year, calling it “an unconventional shade for an unconventional time.” But this isn’t your Barbie pink.

Viva Magenta is a saturated shade that’s not for the color-shy. The confident color is “inspired by the red of cochineal, one of the most precious dyes belonging to the natural dye family as well as one of the strongest and brightest the world has known,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute.

To decorate your home with Viva Magenta, utilize the red-meets-pink on furnishings and keep the rest of the room neutral. Soft blues, greens, and beiges cozy up with Viva Magenta while keeping the spotlight on the saturated shade.

[Photo: Krylon]

Spanish Moss by Krylon

Green is quickly becoming the new neutral as homeowners opt for comforting colors in lieu of the crisp, bright whites of decades past. For its 2023 color of the year, Krylon selected Spanish Moss, a deep forest green that nods to nature. The spray paint shade easily upgrades furniture and decor, plus plays well with practically everything.

“This midnight green has a strong connection with the richness of nature, dense forests, and mossy terrains. Rooted in the renewing power of green, it can balance with both warm and cool accents,” said Ashley Banbury, senior color designer for Krylon, in a press release.

Banbury suggests pairing the rich, grounding green with complementary colors like gold, sandstone, and copper that relate to nature.

[Photo: Benjamin Moore]

Raspberry Blush by Benjamin Moore

Bright and cheery, Benjamin Moore’s pick for 2023 color of the year is a vibrant red-orange called Raspberry Blush. The saturated shade energizes a room for a lively look that’s anything but timid.

“People are ready to bring color back into the home, taking a step outside their color comfort zones,” said Andrea Magno, color marketing and development director at Benjamin Moore, in a press release. “Raspberry Blush 2008-30 and the Color Trends 2023 palette empower the use of statement colors that deliver delight and personality while transforming rooms for incredible results.”

For a maximalist approach, splash Raspberry Blush on walls, trim, and the ceiling to wrap a room in warmth. Or go for a smaller statement on a kitchen island. Soft shades of white and beige balance the bright, rosy hue.

[Photo: Dunn-Edwards]

Terra Rosa by Dunn-Edwards

With the latest 2023 color of the year announcement, soft, earthy shades of pink and clay take the lead as the most popular paint colors. Terra Rosa by Dunn-Edwards blends brown and burgundy for a rosy pink that works as both a grounding neutral and a delicate accent.

“We’re putting health and wellbeing first, making time for escapism and embracing nostalgia … This translates to design through lush, sophisticated touches with equal parts prettiness and drama,” said Sara McLean, color expert and stylist for Dunn-Edwards.

Sweet and cozy without being saccharine, the warm hue adds comfort to a bedroom or living space. Or splash Terra Rose on your home’s exterior for standout style.

[Photo: Sherwin-Williams]

Redend Point by Sherwin-Williams

A blend of blush and beige, Redend Point by Sherwin-Williams features subtle pink undertones to warm up walls. The grounding shade feels especially on trend as homeowners turn toward earth tones to bring comfort and joy to their interior spaces.

“People have been drawn to nature-inspired and earthy tones the past couple years, and this is something that will continue into 2023 and beyond,” says Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams. “Greens, blues, and browns can make any space feel safe, calming, and grounded yet still energized.”

Showcase Redend Point in an entryway that greets guests with an inviting welcome, or on furniture, such as a bathroom vanity, to create an eye-catching focal point.

[Photo: Carson Downing]

Canyon Ridge by Better Homes & Gardens at Walmart

Reminiscent of Southwestern landscapes, Canyon Ridge is an orange-meets-pink paint color that acts as a near-neutral when applied to walls. The trendy spin on terra-cotta couples well with bright blue, its opposite on the color wheel. “Cobalt has vibrancy that makes this classic pairing feel modern,” says BHG style director Jessica Thomas. “Rustic rooms may call for darker denim blue accents. For traditional decor, make it navy.” Not ready for an entire room revamp? Try Canyon Ridge on DIY artwork, built-ins, or even your ceiling for a subtle splash of cozy, desert-inspired color.

[Photo: Behr]

Blank Canvas by Behr

Not every 2023 color of the year aims to make a statement. Blank Canvas, Behr’s pick, is a creamy shade of white that goes with practically everything. The warm neutral stands out from the icy modern hues popular in the past.

“Blank Canvas effortlessly offers a clean and inviting blank slate that allows individuality and creativity to flow freely. This white easily harmonizes with a wide range of hues, including neutrals, earth tones, and pastels for a charming and cozy appeal,” said Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services at Behr, in a press release.

Use Blank Canvas on bedroom walls to promote relaxation, or finish office built-ins and trim with the warm shade of white for a classic look that encourages creativity and concentration.

[Photo: PPG]

Vining Ivy by Glidden

Nods to nature continue to be popular, and Vining Ivy blends blue and green for a tranquil backdrop. The color of the year 2023 from Glidden Paint by PPG works well with both contemporary and classic styles. “[Vining Ivy] is energizing yet grounding, and it works in literally any space,” said Ashley McCollum, Glidden color expert, in a press release. “Its versatility takes the guesswork out of design, leaving consumers with more time to indulge in the things that matter most to them.”

Pair the blue-green jewel tone with wood finishes, stone accents, and rich textures for a room that borrows from the outdoors. Or opt for smaller doses of Vining Ivy on trim, furniture, or cabinetry for a subtle dose of the soothing paint color.

[Photo: Dutch Boy]

Rustic Greige by Dutch Boy

For a cozy, goes-with-everything color, turn to Rustic Greige from Dutch Boy. The 2023 color of the year is a blend of gray and beige with subtle red undertones that pair well with today’s trending earth-tone paint colors. Rustic Greige wraps a room in warmth, making it perfect for kitchens, bedrooms, and family spaces alike.

“The importance of overall well-being remains a primary focus in everyday lives,” said Ashley Banbury, Dutch Boy senior color designer, in a press release. “That’s why more DIYers are dedicating time and energy to designing personal spaces that make them feel cozy, protected, and calm.” The color grounds three color custom palettes⁠—Plush, Wistful, and Botanic⁠—which showcase the neutral’s versatility.

[Photo: Valspar]

2023 Colors of the Year by Valspar

Valspar selected 12 livable paint colors, including soft neutrals, sweet pastels, and soothing shades of blue and green. “[They] are usable shades that encourage self-expression and anyone can envision in their space,” said Sue Kim, Valspar color marketing manager, in a press release. Soft shades of pink and purple, including Gentle Violet (pictured above) and Southern Road, add sophisticated yet subtle color to walls, while rich, restorative blues and greens, including Flora and Everglade Deck, pair well with wood tones and brass accents.

The collection launched alongside Valspar’s “Color-Verse,” a virtual home that allows consumers to try out the 2023 colors of the year.

We are sharing this blog from Better Homes and Garden and was written by Caitlin Sole, Senior Home Editor, BHG

Caitlin is the senior digital home editor at Better Homes & Gardens, where she covers all things home, including decorating and interior design, cleaning and organization, paint and color, home improvement, and more.

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, Homework Remodels 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 craftsman are eager to work with you to make your vision for your home a reality! See our portfolio here.

Find more informative blogs and articles on HOUZZ and on our website www.trilitebuilders.com

09 Mar 2022

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Award-Winning, Blog, Home Improvements, Lifestyle Permalink

What Style Is Your House? Popular House Styles Explained

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On March 9, 2022

Do You Know the Style of Your House?

Whether you’re remodeling, adding a second level, or just giving your home some extra curb appeal, knowing the style of your house can help you develop a successful plan. You’ll also gain a greater appreciation of the way your house was designed and built.

This guide to different styles of houses will help you understand the many variations within the variety of designs. You can also find architecture guides at your local library or in larger bookstores that will help you identify a particular style or design. Using the original style of your house as a starting point for an exterior makeover is usually the best technique, but, in some cases, mixing styles can energize a design.

We’ve included the most popular house styles in Arizona. You can read the entire Better Homes & Garden article that includes the 10 most popular house styles here.

Craftsman Houses

The Craftsman bungalow (also known as Arts and Crafts-style houses) was a popular house style between 1905 and the 1930s, and it’s making a comeback today. If you’re wondering what a Craftsman-style house interior looks like, pay attention to the woodwork. One distinguishing feature of the style is a large amount of interior woodwork, such as built-in shelving and seating.

As for the exterior, Craftsman-style houses often have low-pitched roofs with wide eave overhangs, exposed roof rafters, decorative beams or braces under gables, and porches framed by tapered square columns. Craftsman bungalows often have unfinished but usable space in the attic that can offer great renovation opportunities.

Mediterranean Style

Mediterranean styles of architecture, such as Spanish colonial revival (also known as Spanish farmhouse or Spanish eclectic) flourished in Southern California during the 1920s and 1930s following a noteworthy appearance at the Panama-California Exposition of 1915.

Mediterranean-style homes often feature a low-pitched red tile roof, arches, grillwork, and a stucco or adobe exterior. The typical U-shape Mediterranean floor plan is oriented around a central courtyard and fountain, making the garden an extension of the living space. The rooms in Spanish-style houses often open to the courtyard, promoting cooling cross-ventilation and the flow of fresh air.

Traditional Ranch Homes

Traditional ranch-style homes usually have simple floor plans, attached garages, and efficient living spaces. The style dates back to 1932 and is still being built today. It was one of the most popular styles in the suburban home-building boom of the 1950s and 1960s.

Although they might appear plain or cookie-cutter on the outside, ranch-style houses offer great potential for additions. Bilevel and trilevel homes evolved from the ranch-style and were built during the same era. Because of their simplicity, ranch-style house plans are easy to upgrade with additions.

Contemporary-Style Houses

Referring specifically to architect-designed homes built from about 1950 to 1970, the term “contemporary” has come to describe a wide range of modern house styles built in recent decades that concentrate on simple forms and geometric lines. Contemporary-style homes reflect the experimentation and dynamism of the postwar modern period in which many modernist ideas were integrated into the American aesthetic.

Many contemporary homes feature lots of glass, open floor plans, and inventive designs. Without elaborate ornamentation and unnecessary detail, the exteriors of contemporary homes often feature a dynamic mix of contrasting materials and textures, exposed roof beams, and flat or low-pitched roofs.

New Home Additions

Not every home abides by a single house style. You will often see elements of different house styles combined in one home. It’s a product of one era moving into another while retaining some features of the previous period, and it can easily be adapted to your design scheme. Although you should avoid a hodgepodge of house styles, you can alter a particular style for your addition. Once you understand the style of your existing home, you can thoughtfully move forward with the design of your addition.

For example, juxtaposing building materials and mixing window shapes create architectural intrigue between this home and its addition. Although they were built at different times and feature contrasting materials and elements, they are connected by the use of angles and strong geometry.

Original article by Caitlin Sole, bhg.com (September 16, 2021)

Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

For high-end home design, build, and remodeling in the greater Phoenix area that reflects your vision, Homework Remodels will help you love your home again. Start your project by calling us at (602) 478-5102 or emailing [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.

21 Oct 2021

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Home Improvements, Lifestyle, outdoor living, Trends Permalink

Fall Trends in Outdoor Home Improvements

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On October 21, 2021

There is no escaping the fact that the pandemic has changed the way we approach living day to day and traveling for vacations. We found this blog from ProRemodeler really telling for fall trends in outdoor home improvements. Below are some excerpts:

Because of the pandemic, fewer people are traveling for vacation: according to a recent Ally survey, 88% of respondents say they plan to make improvements to make their homes more staycation ready. Moreover, many Americans are moving to the suburbs, migrating to warmer states, and looking to make their own yards better places to spend time in every day.

Preparing for fall trends

When homeowners are thinking about creating a new outdoor living space, they are listing ways to bring indoor conveniences outdoors. Whether it be innovative technology, multipurpose add-ons, or structures that allow you to be outside longer and more often –you can turn your backyard into a paradise.

Creating outdoor living “rooms”

Overall outdoor living projects have increased by 65% since 2020 (NKBA 2021 Trends Report.) Outdoor kitchens are just one of those popular renovations. Fittingly, they were the top project, with 76% of respondents planning to use outdoor space to cook up some culinary delights for friends and family. And food remained a common theme with edible gardens. It’s a natural fit, with millions of people picking up gardening as a hobby during the pandemic to supplement pantries with homegrown vegetables, fruits, and herbs.

Semi-enclosed spaces and all-season upgrades are two more trends to watch. Covid encouraged homeowners to get more year-round usage from their outdoor living areas. There is a definite blending between the indoor and outdoor.

Many homeowners are now viewing their outdoor spaces as year-round living spaces. To make this work, think of fireplaces, fire pits, heaters, hot tubs, upgraded seating, and weather protection. It’s all about taking advantage of the space you already have; even as cooler temperatures arrive.

Giving the yard the VIP treatment

In the wake of Covid, two divergent trends emerged for the front and backyard. In the backyard, privacy became king. The disruption drove homeowners outside for an escape to exercise, meditate, rest, or recuperate. This trend includes larger, private backyard spaces, sheltered side yards, careful window placement, and covered patios. A mix of landscaping, hardscaping and furniture can deliver that protection. Drapery panels, plant walls, and umbrellas also add a level of privacy.

A recent feature in Better Homes & Gardens identifies front yards as the newest home “addition.” They were typically just for curb appeal; now, residents are looking to maximize the space. The pandemic changed social lives, and many people are looking to connect with their neighbors and communities. In 2020, front yards hosted drive-by parties and socially distanced gatherings; now, homeowners want to stay connected. A “social” front yard is much simpler than a backyard design. Home improvements from a cozy table and chairs, a tree swing, or a comfy bench can give life to an area previously empty or passed through.

Bringing technology outdoors

As homeowners are bringing the outdoors into everyday living, they’re also hoping to bring indoor convenience outdoors. More people are working from home than ever before, and streaming continues its rise, so they’re adding boosters to amplify Wi-Fi signals outdoors. Customers want to create entirely new mixed-use spaces with enhanced, multicolor exterior lighting, TVs, and outdoor speakers for outdoor home offices and theaters.

GREATER PHOENIX AWARD-WINNING HOME REMODELER

Have questions about finding the best remodeling and renovation professional for your outdoor living space? We would love to help you love your home again! Homework Remodels is an award-winning remodeler with years of experience. We focus primarily on amazing outdoor living spaces, kitchens, luxurious bathrooms, and large whole-home remodeling projects. Ready to start? Give us a call at (480) 895-3442 for a free consultation. We look forward to making your dreams a reality! You can see many of our award-winning projects here!

10 Jan 2021

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Home Improvements, Home Office, Lifestyle Permalink

MAKE YOUR HOME OFFICE WORK FOR YOU

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On January 10, 2021

Last year saw a huge shift in employees working from home due to COVID. As we launch into 2021, you may feel the temporary office at the kitchen table or couch where you have been working is not quite cutting it anymore. It was great as a quick and inexpensive solution, but now you are realizing it may not make you as effective in your job. An office is more than a laptop and a cell phone. Having a dedicated home office will make working from home much more productive. The organized, clean space away from the distractions of daily life at home will make a difference in being able to do your job well. The following home office components will help keep you on task.

Home Office Components

There are four main parts of any home office: lighting, flooring, desk or worktable, and some sort of organizational unit, like cabinetry and shelving. Below are a few thoughts about each.

Lighting

First, lighting. There are only about 12 trillion options for lighting, so do not get overwhelmed. Do a little homework ahead of time to know what type you need for your space. Full-spectrum lighting has been linked to improved productivity. You do not want to be straining to see your computer screen. Be aware of bright light shining into your office space and get light control through blinds and drapery to get rid of glare.

Flooring

Next, is the flooring for your space. Your choice of materials depends on how much you are going to be on your feet or sitting. If you are seated, no problem, use whatever you prefer. But, if you will be standing a lot, you may want to consider a more resilient material, like LVT cork or carpeting.

Furniture Choices

Worktables have gained in popularity lately. Most likely because it is easier to seat more people when working in conjunction with others. Whether you choose a traditional desk or a worktable, do not forget to provide space for storage. To keep yourself organized and productive, use open or closed shelving, bookcases, and cabinetry.

These four home office components will make your space convenient and conducive to working from home. Homework Remodels can show you how we can convert a bedroom to a home office or add on to your home.

Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

Remodeling space to create a home office should reflect your taste and lifestyle. Tri-Lite Builders’ NARI Certified Designers will work hand in hand with you to create a space that not only adds value to your home, but also works within your space, taste, and budget. You can view our portfolio here. Call us at (480) 895-3442 if you would like to discuss your remodeling project with our award-winning designers and builders.

16 Sep 2020

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Bathroom Remodels, Budget Permalink

Why You Should Choose High-Quality Materials for Your Remodel Project

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On September 16, 2020

After coming up with a plan and a budget to remodel your bathroom, discovering and choosing the various types of materials available become your next step. As a professional remodeler, we encourage you to choose high-quality materials for your remodel project. In this case, it makes sense to spend more to get the best you can afford. If your budget only allows for a partial remodel, you will find it preferable to buying inferior materials that you may have to replace quickly.

Four Reasons Why You Should Choose High-Quality Materials for Your Remodel Project

Attractiveness. Selecting and spending more money on high-quality remodeling materials will help you get the luxurious look you want. While shopping, you will see that items like granite, natural stone, and hardwood can cause your budget to balloon. However, quality materials are still highly desirable despite the cost because they often defy trends and add classic beauty. They can make any bathroom look elegant.

Durability. When you invest in a bathroom remodel, simply put, you want it to last. A higher price is not the only notable feature of quality bathroom remodeling materials. The durability makes the expense worthwhile for many and spending a little more always pays off for years after the work is done.

Low maintenance. In the bathroom, you use a variety of hair/skincare products as well as having potential water stains. Some less expensive materials, like vinyl, can withstand staining, while porous materials like marble can become stained. Generally, however, high-quality materials offer the advantage of easy maintenance, so you can cut the amount of time you spend on cleaning. Also, because of their durability, you will have fewer repairs to deal with over the years.

Less strain on your budget. It is true that quality bathroom materials are more expensive initially, but it is an investment that pays off! You will not have to deal with frequent repairs typical to replacements done with cheaper materials. Another point to consider is that a beautiful, well-designed bathroom will not need a quick update. So, you could keep the same look for longer, while others are changing features to keep up with the latest trends. When choosing your materials for your remodel, remember that the bathroom is a high traffic area and a lot of moisture to contend with.

Award-Winning Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

You can always save money when remodeling a bathroom, but you should never try to cut corners when it comes to picking the best materials. Ultimately, this will cost you more and leave you unhappy with your renovation. As an award-winning remodeler, Tri-lite Builders specializes in remodeling bathrooms, kitchens, and entire homes to increase the overall functionality and design of the home. Check out our portfolio here! We have helped many Phoenix area homeowners remodel their homes to achieve their ultimate goal.

Free, no-obligation in-home or virtual consultations

Get your project off the ground by calling us at (480) 895-3442 or emailing [email protected] to discuss remodeling your home, kitchen, or bathroom. We offer a 60-minute no-obligation in-home or virtual consultations. Our award-winning designers and craftsman are eager to work with you to make your vision for your home a reality!

21 Jul 2020

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Home Improvements Permalink

9 Simple Home Improvements That Can Increase Value

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On July 21, 2020

Recently, our sister company, Homework Remodels, was cited in this blog by Lexi Klinkenberg with RedFin Real Estate. We are excited to get to share her blog here about 9 simple home improvements that can increase value.

Keeping up on your home maintenance is an important and crucial part of being a homeowner, especially if you are looking to increase the value of your home. In addition to keeping up on basic maintenance, there are many other projects you can do to help your home potentially sell for more. Whether you live in a city like Atlanta, GA, or a smaller town like Cheney, WA these simple home improvements can increase your home value.

1. Replace the garage door

A new front door or garage door is one of the best returns on investment. A new garage door can increase your home value, as well as improve the appearance of your home. Replacing or having an old garage door fixed is a simple home improvement that can increase your home value substantially.

“Everyone knows that first impressions are important when it comes to a home. Depending on the style, the garage can take up as much as 30% of the front of a home. That’s why when replacing an old garage door with a new, upscale garage door has significant impacts on first impressions and can help you sell quickly! In fact, nationally, in 2020 homeowners can expect up to a 94% return on investment for their garage door replacements on average. In some regions, this return on investment surpasses 100%.” –Overhead Door

2. Remodel your kitchen and bathroom

The majority of buyers looking for a home that has an updated kitchen and bathrooms. Updating your cabinets and countertops is a great way to spruce up your kitchen, or even give it a whole new look. Additionally, hardwood floors are becoming increasingly popular among homebuyers and can improve the look of your kitchen dramatically. Buyers are also looking for a bathroom with new tiling and modern fixtures. By hiring a team of professionals to do these simple home improvements, and putting some money toward a kitchen and bathroom remodel, you can attract more millennial homebuyers to your property. Not only that, but you’ll probably recoup a lot of your costs in the selling price of your home.

“It is best to hire a company that not only restores your existing washroom, kitchen cabinets, and floors providing a range of products and options but a company that can also remodel according to your taste! As you are doing renovations, decisions may change due to unforeseeable factors, so it is best to work with a company like Bathtub Guru that can do both restoration and remodeling.” –Bathtub Guru

“We believe a remodeled shower adds value to your home – which can be as easy as tiling your shower from floor to ceiling (up to 10 ft) for extra bling. If you are looking to add more of a high-end touch, use exotic granite for the countertops. Lastly, always add a shower door to retain heat and apply “red guard” to your mud set throughout the whole shower for extra seal protection that lasts longer.” –Arlington Custom Builders

“When trying to find the right home service provider for you, search for local companies. Be wary of companies pouring money into promoted ads on the top of your web searches and those sent via “Directories” promising to connect you with the best local home improvement professionals. These companies will end up having a much higher price. We’re a small local company who invest more in our people and processes than our marketing. We can provide a fair price because we aren’t spending an arm and a leg on web leads.” –Center Point Renovations

4. Replace windows

It is advised that you replace any old single-pane windows and install dual pane windows instead. If you have the extra money for this, they are very attractive and people really find value in them. Replacing windows can give your home a new look, increase natural light, save your money on heating and cooling, and add value to the price of your home if you are considering selling.

“It is incredibly common that homeowners need to repair their windows to satisfy an inspector’s report, and they always want to do it as cheaply as possible. I would advise settling on a dollar amount to escrow so the new owners can make the decision on what quality level to pursue. That way they can do the cheap fix or maybe decide to replace all the windows or something in between. After all, the inspector has flagged 1 or more windows, and the reality is that all the windows are on a decreasing timeline to needing future repair or replacement.” –Brad Alexander, Zen Windows

5. A fresh coat of paint

If you decide to freshen up your home with some new paint, opt for neutral colors on walls, trim, and baseboards. Colors such as light grey, cream, and other soft neutrals are preferred. If you have children and their rooms are all shades of bright green, blue, and pink consider painting those to match the rest of your home. This new paint can bring a more simple, sophisticated look to your home. A freshly painted front door and entryway also make a great welcoming statement for the home and can refresh any interior space.

“Paint your house as soon as you want to list it. Painting your house is the fastest and most affordable way to add notable curb appeal to your home. A painted house will start to generate buzz and put a coming soon sign on the front yard. Make sure to choose a company that gives you a value paint job, not just a cheap paint job.” –Tulsa Christian Bros Painting

6. Update hardware and fixtures

Just as new fixtures can bring a home into the present, updated hardware can create a new look for a small investment. Updating hardware in your kitchen and bathrooms is a great way to modernize your home. You will want to keep your hardware consistent throughout your home and don’t forget to take looks and function into consideration.

“Look up, replacing old recessed fixtures, outdated ceiling fans and chandeliers can instantly refresh any home. Also consider replacing outdated almond-colored switches, outlets, and switch plates. These are great budget-friendly updates and can help you sell your home more quickly.” –Melissa Frederiksen, Atmosphere 360 Studio

7. Minimize and declutter

Decluttering, paring down, or purging is the first step to clearing away excess clutter so you can start organizing your space. You must declutter in order to open up room in your existing space. This is so critical if you are wanting your home to look better ion listing photos or sell for more. Decluttering is a simple home improvement that can make your home look much better.

“A clutter-free home will sell more quickly and for more money than one filled to the brim. Decluttering will not only enhance your sale but with less stuff, it will also make it easier to organize and maintain your next home. Whether you are downsizing, upsizing or right-sizing, the selling, and moving incentive works beautifully for getting you to evaluate your belongs and release excess clutter.” –Linda Samuels, Oh, So Organized!

“Installing shelves, hooks, and racks in your garage and basement to store your tools and belongings will make it easy to quickly locate what you are looking for as well as making a huge visual improvement. Using clear bins makes it a snap to find what you are looking for when you need it. Labeling all of your bins and hooks makes it easy to put things back where they belong. Our preference is metal shelving with wheels: sturdy and functional. It makes entering these spaces pleasant, it’s worth the effort.” –Anna Sicalides, Your Organizing Consultants

“Keep a seasonal maintenance list of everything in your home. For example, in the spring wash your deck and seal it if the manufacturer suggests it. Keep a list with dates of when you sealed it. You will be able to show possible home buyers how well you took care of your deck.” –Vickie Dellaquila, Organization Rules

8. Take care of the exterior of your home

“The best home maintenance tips are not over the top, they are simple ones that keep your home running and looking its best. Clean your gutters, make sure if you have a sprinkler system that the heads never spray on your home, wash your home every year and repaint every 4-5 years depending on your area of the country. Stay on top of these maintenance items so that when you get ready to sell your home, you don’t have to discount your price for all of the deferred maintenance.” –John Rogers, John Rogers Renovations

9. Service all systems

It is best if you service all systems in the home. This is a great way to show any potential buyers that you’ve taken good care of your home. It can be a simple home improvement that can add value to your home. If you have any appliances or systems that are more than 10 years old consider replacing them with newer better functioning ones.

“Looking to reduce utility cost; maximize energy efficiency and improve the performance of your HVAC system, we encourage homeowners to increase their attic insulation. Depending on the age of your home the guidelines for maximum energy efficiency could change from what the builder provided and overtime blown insulation can compact. Additional attic insulation can range from a straightforward DIY project with Batt Insulation to professionally installed Spray Foam Insulation. ” – Sheila Lanier, Homework Remodels

Award-Winning Greater Phoenix Remodeler

Tri-Lite Builders’ goal is to help all homeowners in the greater Phoenix area love their home again. We’ll help you make the tough decisions regarding materials, colors, lighting, and flooring. Call us at 480-895-3442 to schedule a free 60-minute consultation with us to start making plans. Let us help you take those first steps toward your dream home!

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

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