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.

 

 

 

15 Great Ideas For Your Master Bath Remodel

15 Great Ideas for your master bath remodel

As homeowners, we all strive for the same thing – home customization. We want our home to be unique to our personality, so we often go for exterior paint and siding options, doors and windows, and landscaping plans differently from our neighbors. The interior of our home needs the same attention as the exterior, and those personal decisions begin with each homeowner.

15 great ideas to help customize your master bath and turn it into a true work of art.

  1. Showers have really taken a turn toward luxury in recent years. Give your shower serious consideration before the build begins. Consider options like curbless, multiple shower heads, multiple heating options, multiple massaging jets, lighting, and steam in order to customize your master bath.
  2. A standalone tub is a lovely, classic addition to the average bathroom. Most homeowners are steering away from the all-in-one shower-tub unit and opting for a luxury shower and separate soaking tub.
  3. Do you want the shower to be fully enclosed with a shower door or curtain? Do you want a separate enclosure or room for the toilet to maximize privacy? These are serious considerations.
  4. Partial walls offer the ability to conform any bathroom into separate spaces while leaving a very open feeling.
  5. The furnishings you choose will determine the overall visual appeal and efficiency of the bathroom. Choose wisely.
  6. Storage is extremely important in the bathroom. Choose storage options that work for your specific needs.
  7. Lighting is also extremely important, especially when most of us prepare for life in our bathroom. We need the right ambient lighting, task lighting, and mood lighting depending on the time of day and use for the bathroom.
  8. Add transom windows or decorative windows to help bring in natural light. Stained glass, smoky glass or glass blocks help protect your privacy while adding natural light to the room.
  9. Choose faucets that reflect your personal sense of style.
  10. The bathroom, like the kitchen, is one of the most used rooms in the home, so it must be functional. Strongly consider functionality over style, that doesn’t mean you won’t have a stylish bathroom.
  11. The flooring must flow with the overall design and decor of the room. Choose heated flooring for an extra-nice touch to customize your master bath.
  12. Paint the walls and ceiling to complement other decor and furniture options. Choose a paint finish that will be able to withstand the rigors of bathroom heat, steam, and cleaning.
  13. Tile is a beautiful way to fully customize your bathroom. Look to local tile showrooms with a vast array of options, you can also purchase the custom tile from local crafters or people who sell their wares online. Prices vary widely, so be aware of your budget before you fall for “the one”.
  14. The decor you use in your bathroom should reflect your personal sense of style and your lifestyle. Choose your decor carefully and consider changing it from season to season for a dramatic effect.
  15. Ease of Cleaning is a consideration! This is something that many of us don’t take into consideration when designing our custom bathroom. It’s no big deal if you enjoy cleaning the bathroom – but seriously, who enjoys cleaning that much? Okay, yes, there are a few! But for the rest of us, we’d rather build out a bathroom that’s easy to clean.

Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

Call Tri-Lite Builders at (480) 895-3442 for a free 60-minute consultation to begin your remodel! Our designers and craftsmen would love the opportunity to show you how we can customize your home to make it uniquely yours. Peruse our featured projects to see some of our award-winning remodels.

SuCasa Feature Editorial of Tri-Lite Builders Gainey Ranch Remodel

Tri-Lite Builders is thrilled to announce that our Gainey Ranch whole house remodel project has been featured in this Summer issue of SuCasa.

Our maiden voyage as an editorial centerpiece highlights our remodeling expertise and design prowess.  This article goes into detail about our clients,  the work they have had completed in their home, and their perspective of the remodel process and outcome. SuCasa feature editorial of Tri-Lite Builders Gainey Ranch remodel in Scottsdale Arizona  

As a Design~Build Remodel firm we pride ourselves on our ability to create an end product that exceeds the hopes and dreams of our clients and their families.  Our team strives to maximize communication and minimize stress.  Our process does not leave the homeowner alone to make this myriad of decisions on their own.  We attempt to provide enough information for clients to make educated decisions and understand our process, from product selection, through construction and follow-up after completion.  We hope you enjoy the article and pictures as much as we do.

SuCasa feature editorial of Tri-Lite Builders Gainey Ranch remodel in Scottsdale Arizona SuCasa feature editorial of Tri-Lite Builders Gainey Ranch remodel in Scottsdale Arizona SuCasa Magazine feature editiorial of Tri-Lite Builders Gainey Ranch remodel in Scottsdale Arizona SuCasa feature editorial of Tri-Lite Builders Gainey Ranch remodel in Scottsdale ArizonaSuCasa Feature Editorial of Tri-Lite Builders Gainey Ranch Remodel

To view the full article visit page 21 on SuCasa’s online magazine

35 Years of Designing Value & Building Trust

Future, Present and Past words on a red speedometer to predict what's coming next and looking forward to a successful tomorrowDesigning Value & Building Trust.

There is something about ringing in the new year makes all of us a little sentimental and nostalgic. We’re in our 34th year of service this year, and in only 8 short months, we’ll be looking at 35 Years of Designing Value & Building Trust. We’ve designed, built, and remodeled a lot of homes in those 34 years. We’re looking forward to continuing our business for an undetermined length of time to come. Today we want to take a quick look at how things have changed in the design and build industry in the last 30 years.

 

National and Local Codes

Building codes differ from area to area because structural needs differ. All building codes are in place to protect the homeowner and builder from injuries, and the insurance agency against fraudulent claims. A home that passes all required inspections along the way is considered safe and legal for the inhabitants. Codes do change from time to time as new technologies come into play, so always make sure you’re building or remodeling your home with someone who has experience in your area.

Design Tools

This is one of the biggest changes we’ve seen thus far. We’ve always worked with printed blueprints, pencils, pens, and paper, among other design tools. Today we still use paper, pencils, and other tools to design and sketch, but we also use computers. The computers and software we use allow us to create amazing 3D renderings of your project so we can provide picture-perfect images before work begins. We are sure to be on the same page when we can see an actual representation of the finished project.

More Precise Quotes and Time Frames

The computerized system allows us to see precisely what we need for each project so we can provide a better time frame and more precise quotes. We still recommend that you budget at least 15% more in case of incidentals or if you decide to splurge on that amazing steam shower you’ve had your eye on instead of the tub-shower combo unit. Yes, we see these incredible trends, too.

Highest Quality Standards 

Our entire business has been built on quality workmanship and a professional demeanor. We’ve recognized as the Local Contractor of the Year many times over the years , in 2015 we’ve been awarded Best of Show and Contractor of the Year once again for the Phoenix area by the Greater Phoenix National Association of the Remodeling Industry.
In 2015 Ranking Arizona also recognized us as Arizona’s top remodeler after compiling their public vote.
After 35 Years of Designing Value & Building Trust, we are grateful for everyone’s continued support.
You can contact us by emailing us at [email protected], using the Contact form on our website, calling us at 480-895-3442, or visiting our Facebook page to let us know what you would like to do to your home. We would love to hear your ideas and schedule an appointment for a consultation to get things underway.

New Website, Blog Feature, and Resolutions

new webWe have a lot of exciting things going on this year here at Tri-Lite Builders. We’ve recently revamped the website; it seems as if everything needs to be remodeled occasionally. We’ve introduced the blog feature, and now we’re face to face with January 2016 and the multitude of ideas for New Year’s resolutions. We could stick with the usual popular resolutions such as eating healthier and exercising more, but we decided to include a few home improvement projects into the mix of resolutions as well.

 

Let’s Talk New Year’s Resolutions!

Home improvement projects crop up all year round, so there’s no way you can resolve to complete them all on a certain date. We completely understand that when something messes up, it has to be repaired as quickly as possible. So we aren’t saying that you need to create a plan of action this month and stick to it regardless. We’re simply saying instead of renewing the gym membership and only visiting a couple of days a week, remodel some part of your home to include a home gym. Instead of avoiding a certain area of your home or using it only as storage, remodel it to enhance the living spaces in your home and include organized hidden storage.

New Website – Our Whole New Design is Cleaner and Neater

We love our new website. The overall design is much neater and cleaner than it was before, and it’s easier to navigate. Our goal was to make it easy for you to find the answers to your questions before you call us because quality information is the key to a successful project from beginning to end. Our new website provides information like:

• Kitchen Remodeling FAQ – This area is pretty self-explanatory, it answers the most frequently asked questions about kitchen remodeling.
• Bathroom Remodeling FAQ – This area is also self-explanatory, it answers the most frequently asked questions about bathroom remodeling.
• Our Certifications – This area covers our current certifications and gives you information about each.
• Our Design Process – We always like for our clients to become familiar with our design-build process because it does take time to create perfection.
• Our Gallery of Previous Projects – We’ve built our reputation on our ability to provide quality work in a timely manner, excellent craftsmanship, and a professional atmosphere from beginning to end. We take pride in the projects we’ve finished and would like to encourage you to look at our previous work to determine whether or not you would like to work with us.
New Blog – What Would You Like to See?

We want your input. We want to know what you would like to see on the blog so we can tailor our content to fit into the categories you want to read. We can go on for hours about building, remodeling, trends, and the like, but if we aren’t providing content you want to read, you won’t visit us that often. So email us, call us at 480-895-3442, or visit our Facebook page to let us know what you would like to see next.

Welcome To Tri-Lite Builders New Blog Feature

Linds-Steve-New
Turns out websites are like our homes, eventually, they too need to be remodeled. We are gearing up for a great 2016 with our newly remodeled website with its new blog feature. Tri-Lite Builders’ previous website served us well for many years. Unfortunately, it didn’t adjust well to being viewed on a phone or tablet, plus it had limitations that prevented us from being able to offer this blog.

Now that our updated website is launched, we will be publishing regular blog posts on all aspects of home remodeling, improvements, and maintenance.  We plan to start new features such as, “Our Favorite New Products” and “Hot New Trends”. Linda and I hope you will find our posts informative and interesting.

Drop us a line!

Get in touch with us!