storage Archives - Tri-Lite Builders

21 Nov 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Bathroom Remodels, Blog, Build/Design Process, Home Improvements, Storage, Trends Permalink

12 Custom Storage Solutions for a Clutter-Free Bathroom

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On November 21, 2023

There are a lot of details, both big and small, to think about when designing or remodeling a bathroom. And I believe that to create a space that truly works for you, investing extra time and money on custom storage in the planning stages will be worth it in the long run. Here are 12 custom storage solutions to consider with your design and remodeling team early on for a clutter-free bathroom.

Materials + Methods Design

Custom Storage Solutions

The first step in planning a functional bathroom is understanding what your needs are and the general quantity of what you plan to keep in your bathroom. I suggest writing a list of your top priorities and wish list items, such as towel storage, easy access to hairstyling, or an organized skincare setup.

Your bathroom might not fit everything you would like. Pare down your belongings and try to decide where each category of items will reside. Eliminating what you don’t love or need, and deciding on a home for each category, before you finalize your plans might help narrow down your storage solutions. You might realize that some less frequently used items are better stored elsewhere in the house.

Docking Drawer

1. Hairstyling Drawer
Many people use hairstyling tools and products daily, yet these items are often tucked away under the sink or somewhere else that’s not very accessible. If this sounds like you, and you want your tools and products to be easily reachable, consider devoting a drawer to hair care.

An outlet in the drawer can help keep cords neat and off the counters. And consider storage that will allow you to put hot tools away right after using them, while they’re still cooling, as with the metal-lined holders seen in this photo from Docking Drawer.

KraftMaster Renovations

2. Rolling Drawers
Items stored in the back of deep cabinets are difficult, and sometimes awkward, to retrieve and put away. It’s also very easy to forget about things when they get shoved to the back, which can lead to clutter and unused items. Rolling drawers with full-extension slides will allow you to see all the contents and keep them organized.

How to Choose a Bathroom Vanity

KraftMaid

3. Tiered Drawers
If your drawers are very deep, you might consider adding tiers; splitting your original drawer into two might prevent it from becoming a cavernous catchall. There are many tiered drawer configurations to suit a range of organizing needs. If you need part of your drawer to remain deep, for instance, a cabinetmaker might be able to install a partially tiered drawer.

Wow Great Place

4. Pullout Towers
Cabinets that extend to the ceiling add storage, which is especially handy in a bathroom with a small footprint. Wow Great Place created the three stacked pullout towers seen here, in a narrow space between a sink and a wall. They increase the storage considerably, all the items are accessible, and the pullouts are fairly inconspicuous when closed.

Delicious Kitchens & Interiors, LLC

5. Tip-Out Tray and Notched Drawers
I’ve seen many bathrooms in which the panel in front of the sink is a false drawer front, and I always find it disappointing to pull on the handle and have it be immobile. To squeeze in every ounce of storage possible, depending on your sink and counter configurations, consider adding a tip-out tray and notched drawers, as Delicious Kitchens & Interiors did here.

MasterBrand Cabinets

6. Hidden Hamper
Many of my clients don’t like having their laundry hampers visible and taking up floor space; they prefer to have them hidden. Hidden hampers require a lot of space though, so you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of giving up cabinet space (either in your bathroom or your closet) to house one.

Since a hamper is a frequently used item, the solution should be both convenient and aesthetically pleasing. If you decide to allocate cabinet space for your hamper, I recommend installing one on slides so you can pull it out push it in easily.

Whit Willow, Llc.

7. Vanity Towel Bar and Hooks
If you don’t have much wall space for hanging towels, consider installing towel bars and hooks in front of or on the side of your vanity.

Mulberry’s Design House

8. Wall Storage
As long as a wall isn’t load-bearing and doesn’t have pipes or electrical wires running through it, you might be able to hollow out the wall to create more storage. A half wall that separates the toilet from the shower or vanity area can be an ideal place for storing extra bath tissue, as in this space by Mulberry’s Design House. I recommend proceeding with this solution only with the approval of an architect or a contractor.

KraftMaster Renovations

9. Medicine Cabinet Features
In the past, a medicine cabinet was simply a shallow cabinet with a mirror. Nowadays there are many features you can select to make your medicine cabinet serve you well.

Useful features can include a Bluetooth speaker for your music and refrigerated sections for special skincare products and medicines. You also can add night lights, defoggers, and charging ports for electric toothbrushes, razors, and beauty devices. Some of these features might be considered luxury items, but they might truly enhance your life and make your routines more efficient.

Wood Specialties, Inc.

10. Toe Kick Storage
A toe kick is a recessed area at the bottom of a base cabinet that allows someone to stand closer to the counter comfortably. Depending on the construction of your cabinets, you might be able to convert the base to a toe-kick drawer for even more storage. If you have young children, a cover for the toe kick drawer can double as a step as well. Consult with your architect and contractor to see if incorporating a toe kick drawer would be a feasible option for you.

Hartman Baldwin Design/Build

11. Bathtub Storage
Carve out extra spaces in the framing of your bathtub or create a shallow cabinet or shelving unit in front of your bathtub.

Casework

12. Decor Display
While planning your functional bathroom, be sure to also include spaces where you can add decor and personality. Evaluate if recessed shelving created from otherwise unused zones might be a good investment for you. Open shelves can display small plants, candles, and framed photos, as well as serve as additional storage.

Houzz Contributor. Patricia Lee is a professional home organizer in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is the co-owner of Tailorly with her business partner Jeanne Taylor. Together they create beautiful homes through decluttering, organizing, and styling. For more information visit www.tailorly.net.

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.

07 Sep 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Design, Home Improvements, home organization, Lifestyle, Storage Permalink

10 Keys to a Well-Functioning House

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On September 7, 2023

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.

Craig O’Connell Architecture

TIPS FOR A WELL-FUNCTIONING HOUSE

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.
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.
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.

Melanie Stewart Designs

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.

Barcci Builders

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.

Glas Associates

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.

123 Remodeling Inc.

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?

Bilotta Kitchen and Home

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.

Kalaa Chakra Interiors

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.

Christopher Patrick Interiors

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

10 Nov 2022

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, home organization, Kitchen Remodels, Lifestyle, Storage Permalink

How to Store Kitchen Tools and Flatware

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On November 10, 2022

They say the key to organization is a place for everything and everything in its place. This is true for even the smallest items, such as your kitchen utensils. These include your everyday flatware as well as the many small but mighty cooking tools a serious chef requires. Here are some of my favorite options on how to store your kitchen tools in any space and on any budget.

Step One: Eliminating

Before you can organize any part of your home properly, you need to do some culling, and this is especially true in the kitchen. Drawers can quickly become filled with unused tools and gadgets, so take a hard look at the items you own and find as many as possible to give away or box up.

NEAT Method Santa Barbara

You may never get your collection of utensils down to the perfectly minimal arrangements shown in these photos, but the more items you can eliminate, the easier it will be to store and find the truly useful ones. Never use the little dessert spoons that came with your cutlery set? Only used that special spatula (designed to perfectly flip a single egg) the one time? Stash these items away in less reachable spaces such as upper cabinets to free up more prime cabinet real estate.

Joselyn Rendon Interiors

If Renovating, Make a Plan for Success

If you’re renovating or building a kitchen, you shouldn’t put off the organizational considerations until all the construction is complete. Thinking in advance about how to hold your collection of tools will produce a much better result. Planning to include a few drawers specifically sized for utensils will save a lot of potentially wasted space.

Typical cutlery trays aren’t very wide. Your basic eating utensils get used every day, but they don’t need that much space. A drawer just 10 to 12 inches wide will provide the right amount of space for those items without the need to have them share space with whisks and ladles.

Dura Supreme Cabinetry

Give Depth Some (Deep) Thought

Besides considering the width of the drawers, don’t forget to think about the depth. Drawers are often 6 to 8 inches deep (on the exterior face) by default simply because the cabinet has been split evenly into three to four drawers. However, a 4- to 5-inch-deep drawer (again, on the face, which translates to just a few inches inside) is all you need to store well-organized utensils. Using more and shallower drawers keeps items from getting piled on top of each other and lost in the mix.

Ideally, you should look at the collection of utensils you have (or plan to have) and map out exactly how much space they will need. This takes some extra effort upfront, but you will end up with a much better allocation of space than by simply choosing drawers in an arbitrary width. You can try laying out your utensils on a dining table to get a visual picture (and some measurements) of how much space they ideally would get.

Reiter Architecture & Design

Mix Drawers and Doors

Often people think of drawer cabinets and basic shelf cabinets as being two separate things, but they definitely can be mixed to meet your needs more efficiently.

Cabinets with a drawer at the top and doors and shelves below allow smaller, often-used items to be placed at a more reachable height, with the shelf storage left for more occasional items and oversized pieces. If you use lots of small chef’s tools when you cook, consider including many utensil drawers at the top level. It will save you a lot of bending down over time.

MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc.

Consider Going Vertical

Want to tidy up your cutlery drawer without having to assign each piece an individual place? Try a drawer with vertical cutlery bins that let you simply drop in pieces with long handles (such as spatulas and slotted spoons) and pull them out easily. You’ll be able to see each piece, and you won’t have to remember exactly where you got it later.

How to store kitchen tools

eric gedney | ARCHITECT

This style of cabinet can make great use of skinny spaces left over in your cabinet plans, such as the small spaces next to a range or sink.

You can store flatware vertically too. Cleverly retrofit a deeper drawer into a cutlery drawer by dividing it into small, deep compartments like this. Just be sure you don’t store sharp items this way, or you may dull the blades (and risk accidents as well).

Jim Martin Design

Create Layers

Another way to make the best use of deep drawers is to break them up internally into layers. You can either use a built-in drawer divider system or find a layered drop-in unit.

A tiered organizer can create compartments smaller than an individual drawer to gain maximum space efficiency. Just keep in mind that the upper layer will partially cover the lower layer (or will need to be slid individually), so you should put the most-used items on the most reachable tier.

Retrofitting: What Are the Options?

Of course, many of the images in this article use beautiful, built-in, custom-fitted trays, and those may not always be an option, especially when working with existing cabinetry. However, there are many alternatives available.

How to store kitchen tools

Renovisions

Single Trays

A classic single cutlery tray is sometimes all you need, but keep in mind that these trays are not truly one-size-fits-all. Finding one that comes close to filling your drawer width will provide more structure versus a small tray that shifts around with use. Measure the interior of your drawer and look for a tray that fills it. Online shops will usually have more size options than a small local kitchen supply store.

Configurable Trays

A step above the prefabricated single trays is a divider system made up of single compartments that can be mixed and matched like Tetris pieces to create spaces for all your items. If you can’t perfectly fill the full width, use the open space for a sturdy item such as a rolling pin or box of foil that will keep the other pieces from shifting.

Susan Brook Interiors

Resizable Dividers

Another step closer to a custom built-in is a resizable divider system like this one that lets you snap together pieces to create any size compartments you like. An advantage of this sort of system is that you can change the configuration later to fit a different mix of items, or even fit a new drawer if you move or renovate.

Open Storage Vessels

For those who don’t mind having some of their utensils on display, simple open vessels or jars make a great place to hold your often-used items.

This can look especially great in a kitchen that makes use of open shelving already, with the utensil jars becoming part of the overall chef’s kitchen appeal.

Hanging Rails

Another form of open storage is a rail that can be used to either hang utensils and tools directly (via a curved handle or a hook) or hang containers and holders to keep your utensils within easy reach but off the counter.

A wall-mounted system can be great for stealing a little storage space behind the range or elsewhere on the backsplash, which can be a lifesaver in a compact kitchen where every inch of storage space counts.

Pegboards

Like a rail, a pegboard can give you lots of flexible storage space on the wall. Whether this look is charmingly relaxed or too busy is a matter of personal taste, but if you like this aesthetic, it offers lots of practical options for arranging and rearranging your tools.

The full article by Toronto Interior Design Group can be found here. Houzz contributor.

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

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

10 Jun 2020

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

Creating Space We Can Enjoy

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On June 10, 2020

As 2020 settles in to be an extraordinary year with unprecedented times, there is a desire to seek out beauty and to find the positive in our lives. And nothing helps more to delight us than design and creating a space we can enjoy. This year we are exploring bold new creations and unique possibilities regarding our homes. It is the year to be free, experimental, and create new things and reinvent not only yourself but your home. So many trends, some new and others coming back into style, for home renovations are being seen on a regular basis. Here are 8 impressive and unique remodeling ideas, the best part about most of these, they are relatively inexpensive to accomplish even when you are sheltering in place!

8 renovating and decorating ideas in creating a space we can enjoy

Empty space under your stairs? Turn it into a home for your dog, a playhouse for your child, a book nook or even a storage closet.
Decorate your boring blank walls. If you are tired of plain old walls or floors, just add stenciled art, stamps, lace or even paper art to add character to your plain surface.
Put in a hammock where there’s space. Here is one of the craziest ideas that produces amazing results. If you have an extremely high ceiling in your home or empty space above your staircase, simply add a sturdy hammock across the area. Instantly create a space to relax or even sleep.
Wide-open spaces. Turn an empty room into a home mini cinema or entertainment center that you and your guests will absolutely adore. You can even turn that room into a pillow room, where you can relax and read or even sleep depending on the types and size of pillows you have in the room.
Create an indoor pit: While renovating, create a “pit-like” area in your living room; this area can be a hollowed-out area in the ground, much like an indoor pool. This will be turned into a conversation pit when sofas or pillows are added to it. This may not be everyone’s taste, but if you have space, it can turn a room into a major conversation piece.
Create a unique space: Create a hidden room behind a movable staircase or bookcase for escaping into your own private study when you need time alone. Search online for unique ideas that you are certain to fall in love with and give us a call.
Make your walls magnetic: This will make it easier to hang items and it removes the need for unsightly screws and hooks. Do not go for the cheapest option if you use metallic wall boards; choose the sturdiest and most durable option instead.
Utilize your kitchen island for storage: Another unique renovation idea is to place a mini-fridge or wine rack in your kitchen island. Also, consider putting the trash and recycling in the kitchen island. Add trap doors at the top of the island for access.

These are just a few amazing renovation ideas to try next time you are remodeling your home. Do not let your remodeling ideas be limited by tradition; think bold and unique. Contact us at 480-895-3442 if you are interested in remodeling your home and adding to the unique appeal you enjoy from your living spaces.

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

27 May 2020

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

6 BATHROOM UPGRADES FOR YOUR REMODELING PROJECT

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On May 27, 2020

Bathrooms are one of our most used spaces but can be a tricky space to upgrade or update. With unmovable fixtures and often tight footprints, options can seem limited at first glance. With a little creativity, though, you can add style and bring your bathroom up to date. We’ve put together a list of 6 bathroom upgrades and ideas that will transform your bathroom and make your bathroom remodeling project a success!

6 Bathroom Upgrades and Ideas

Hide the Toilet

If you’re working with a larger, master bathroom, a half wall can provide a new look and add style while creating a discreet nook for the toilet. A piece of furniture like an armoire or dresser can also create a functional and stylish barrier without the need for framing.

Update Your Surfaces

Bathroom surfaces contribute to your overall look while also taking a lot of wear and tear. Changing out your tile can drastically change the look of your bathroom. Look for larger tiles to minimize grout lines, which will make cleaning and upkeep easier.

Modernize Your Shower

Many people don’t make use of their bathtubs. Why not remove the tub altogether and create a large, luxurious shower? Body sprays, overhead rain showerheads, and even steam generators can upgrade your shower experience.

Create Space on Your Vanity

Bathrooms with double ‘his and hers’ sinks can be updated to create storage space. Getting a new countertop with a single sink can drastically change the look of the room while maximizing counter space for storage and décor.

Light it Up

Utilizing different types of fixtures in your bathroom can do a lot to brighten and update the space. In addition to overhead lights, sconces or other vertical fixtures on either side of the sink or vanity will provide even lighting for beauty routines or shaving.

Think Outside the Box

Replace mirrors and hardware with vintage brass for a chic, homey look, or with chrome to make your more bathroom modern. When shopping for tile and fixtures, look for something that suits your style and personality – even if it comes from outside the bathroom section of the store. Break the rules.

Bonus Tip: Remember when you’re upgrading and updating your bathroom to draw in design and style elements from the rest of your home. Having a functional bathroom doesn’t have to mean having a boring one!

Give us a call at Tri-Lite Builders at (480) 895-3442 if you’re in the greater Phoenix area and planning to remodel your bathroom in the near future. We’ll schedule a virtual or in-home consultation to help you design the perfect bathroom with amazing upgrades and style. Explore our portfolio of bathroom remodels for ideas here!

06 Feb 2020

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Design, Kitchen Remodels, Trends Permalink

Ten Trends for Kitchen Design in 2020

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On February 6, 2020

Kitchen Design Has Come a Long Way

Kitchen design has come a long way in the last 20 years. We’ve seen some pretty amazing trends, but there are some trends that come and go pretty quickly when people realize they can’t complement their cobalt blue refrigerator, range, and dishwasher for more than a couple of years. We have had our eye on a few trends that we will happily take into 2020 and beyond. What we love is an updated classic design for kitchens being amped up in the glamour factor without making you feel out of place having coffee in a bathrobe.

Sleek Kitchen Design with Sleek Cabinetry

Flat-faced cabinets and low-profile handles help to create a very sleek kitchen appearance. By using less crown molding on the tops of the upper cabinets helps achieve that look! It also gives more storage space to the cabinets.

Darker and Thinner Countertops

With natural materials and earth tones taking over the entire home design, kitchens are doing the same. Countertops are no longer two or three inches thick. Thinner materials are lightweight but just as durable. One-and-a-half-inch thick granite is more standard and three-quarter inch thick quartz works well for modern style kitchens. What’s new, is dark natural woods like walnut!

Matching Countertop and Backsplash

Extending the countertop material up the backsplash streamlines the number of materials in a kitchen creating a clean and contemporary look.

Double Islands

Expanding a kitchen’s function and maintain kitchen flow, double islands in the kitchen can be an integral feature. The area is divided between meal prep and serving or gathering. Add another sink and function is doubled!

Gravity Defying Islands

Maximizing the sense of clean, open space within a smaller kitchen have been drawn to gravity-defying islands. With these unique islands, the functional elements of the kitchen recede to reveal more space and become an extension of the architecture itself. (Think less bulk underneath the island’s countertop.)

Steel Hoods

Kitchen hoods are moving away from stainless steel and basic painted wood. Implementing steel and plasterwork into the design makes the steel hood a focal point and conversation pieces for the kitchen.

Warm Finishes

The time for grey and white kitchens is giving way to warm finishes. When done well, wood cabinetry can be modern and fresh.

Open Shelving for Decor

There has been a long-running trend of open shelving for plates and glassware but now the possibilities are expanding! Open shelving is displaying antique cookware, gilded vintage glasses and copper pots to blend the old world with modern appliances.

Task Lighting and Natural Lighting

Overhead lighting just isn’t enough light to illuminate food preparation areas sometimes, so this is where we rely on strategically placed task lighting. Under-cabinet lighting, as well as pendant lighting, are very popular options for task lighting. The addition of windows above or below cabinetry or in the eat-in-kitchen nook brings in a great amount of natural lighting. Many homeowners enjoy the addition of windows or skylights because they also improve the curb appeal of the home.

Pull-out Cabinet Storage

Lower cabinets are often dark and dishes tend to become lost in the abyss. Stop losing dishes, and install pull-out cabinet shelving or better yet, deep pot drawers instead of stationary shelves. Nothing is more convenient as well as better looking than including built-in trash and recycle containers. Installing them where they are easy to access from your prep area makes your work in the kitchen that much easier.

Greater Phoenix Area Remodelers

Call Tri-Lite Builders at (480) 895-3442 for a free 60-minute consultation to begin your kitchen remodel! Our designers and craftsmen would love the opportunity to show you how we can turn your existing kitchen into an amazing room that you’ll never want to leave. Peruse our featured projects to see some of our award-winning kitchens remodels.

Reimagine Your Space With Reclaimed Materials

Stardust is a material reuse organization local to the Phoenix metro area. Stardust’s mission is driven by their vision of a future without waste; a sustainable community where resources are reused or redistributed. For the past 20 years, they have rallied behind reducing landfill waste with a simple call to action: Starve the Landfill. This led them to provide quality reclaimed materials to thousands of customers and diverting more than 80 million pounds of usable materials from piling up landfills. Stardust has locations where you can donate your materials as well as shop their materials. Learn more about Stardust here. If you think you’d like to follow this green trend, as your remodeler, we’d love to help you reimagine your space!

06 Nov 2019

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Lifestyle, outdoor kitchen, outdoor living, Room Addition, Storage Permalink

Outdoor Living Space Project Nearing Completion

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On November 6, 2019

Two story deck renovation and storage room addition nearing completion

We are excited to show you our outdoor living space project that is nearing completion! If you haven’t caught our other blogs about this North Phoenix home renovation, you can catch up by reading the first blog here and the second one here. Outdoor living space in Phoenix is almost as important as indoor living space and we’ve enjoyed working on this amazing deck and storage room two-story addition. The back of the house faces north with a stunning view of Lookout Mountain Preserve and the northeast valley. It has been exciting to create a new space where our clients can enjoy their scenic view from their new deck and outdoor kitchen!

What our goals have been

The goal for our client was to have a larger outdoor space to do the entertaining he enjoys. This beautiful stucco adobe style home’s first floor was built below grade level. The second story of the home is dedicated to the main living space with the kitchen, living room and dining room. By expanding the deck space, and integrating an outdoor kitchen, we will create a much larger outdoor living space for this home.

We are almost done!!

With all the details almost complete this deck renovation has made quite the change for our homeowner’s outdoor entertaining space. So much so, he has already had multiple gatherings. It is that time of year in the Valley of the Sun to get out and enjoy our outdoor living spaces. Fall, football and stunning sunsets set the mood. The deck has electrical for misting fans, lights, and TV mounts. There is an area for cabinets to be installed including a sink base, storage shelves, and a built-in barbeque.

The interior of the storage space walls is sheeted with plywood and painted gray as the perfect backdrop to the wall storage solutions and racks that will be installed for the work areas. The ceiling was painted black to maintain the desired focus of the homeowner.

Excited for the finish to come soon as the details fall into place. It is going to be perfect for entertaining and enjoying the gorgeous view of the valley.

Two story deck renovation and storage room addition nearing completion

07 Oct 2019

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Family, Kitchen Remodels, Lifestyle Permalink

How to Avoid 6 Kitchen Remodel Mistakes

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On October 7, 2019

Creating a Kitchen Space for Family Gathering

In today’s hectic and digital world, the kitchen creates space that families can gather, cook and spend time together. Making it one of the most comfortable rooms in your home is almost a necessity since this is the one room that everyone ends up in! We spend time in the kitchen eating our meals, having snacks, enjoying gathering as a family, and entertaining friends. Thus, if the kitchen doesn’t flow with the rest of the house – or the room itself – it becomes a space to avoid. Remodeling your kitchen can transform your space so that it is warm and inviting, but also functional. When planning your kitchen remodel, here is how to avoid 6 kitchen remodel mistakes.

Solutions to How to Avoid 6 Kitchen Remodel Mistakes

1. Open Shelving

While Open Shelving is often approached as making your kitchen space seem more open, it can also create an atmosphere of too much busyness. Open shelving is a wonderful way to add character to the room and display your prized pieces, be cautious, however, too many knick-knacks or stacked baking pans and skillets can interrupt the flow of your kitchen and certainly take away from the rest of your design for your kitchen. We suggest keeping the open shelves neatly adorned and choose wall or base cabinetry for the less decorative items.

2. Stainless Steel

A little stainless steel goes a long way towards making a kitchen look modern. Too much can make it look like an operating room or an industrial kitchen (not to be confused with Industrial Design Style). Make sure to break up the stainless steel with some complementing colors and textures from other areas in your home. One way to do this is to choose stainless appliances with a colorful countertop, or a stainless steel island countertop with colorful appliances and wood open shelves.

3. Poorly Placed Appliances

Nothing breaks up the flow of a room like making it difficult to use. Not being able to open your refrigerator and walk by it or your dishwasher and stove, at the same time not only hampers the use of your kitchen, but it also appears cramped and unfunctional. Creating the right flow for your space can make all the difference. This should be one of the first things you’ll want to talk with your Kitchen Remodeler about.

4. Making it too Bland

The white kitchen is in high demand, ‘safe’ colors like beige, tan, and white flow together, but they can also make a kitchen boring. A monochromatic design scheme is beautiful when done well, but can fall flat. Add some flavor to your kitchen to give it character. Bring some of the colors from the adjoining rooms into the kitchen to add depth and carry the flow of colors from room to room. You can also add texture with wood, shapes, and fabrics. Since you are wanting to create a space for gathering family and friends, make sure your family’s personality is reflected in your newly remodeled kitchen!

5. Trash Cans/Recycle Bins

Absolutely necessary, but what to do with them? To create a beautiful space without also interrupting the flow of your kitchen, trashcans and recycle containers should be planned into your new kitchen remodel. There are many ways to keep these items functional, whether in a pantry, base cabinet, or other built-in space. They will be accessible but hidden.

6. Installing in the Incorrect Lighting

Nothing makes your kitchen more functional than effective lighting. Kitchens need an overhead light for general lighting and a spotlight to perform specific tasks such as preparing food. Of course, you don’t want your kitchen only to be functional; you want it to look good too. In order to highlight the style of your kitchen, add in accent lighting with pendant lights over the island/peninsula or above cabinets and toe kick lighting. This is another great way to add in your personality.

Avoid these 6 kitchen remodeling mistakes, schedule your appointment today! Tri-Lite Builders has the solutions that will create the space in your kitchen where your family and friends will want to gather. We have designed some of the most unique and amazing kitchens in the greater Phoenix area. Our work has been featured in several magazines and online publications, and we’ve received the Contractor of the Year award multiple times. We love the entire kitchen remodeling process and would be honored to help you realize your kitchen’s full potential.

Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

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

24 Sep 2019

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Lifestyle, outdoor living, Room Addition, Storage Permalink

A Look Behind the Walls

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On September 24, 2019

All that blown insulation settled into its spaces. Drywall installed on the ceiling. Plywood acclimating so it can be ready to sheet the walls once the ceiling is complete.

We are excited to continue to share our progress on this amazing two-story deck and storage room addition for our latest North Phoenix home remodel by giving you a look behind the walls. The back of the house faces north with a stunning view of Lookout Mountain Preserve and the northeast valley. You can read about the remodel of this outdoor living space and storage room addition in its beginning stages here.

Behind the Walls of the New Storage Addition

With our Monsoon season almost ending we are getting quite the storm this week. So, we are giving you a look inside, behind the walls, of this two-story addition. This first floor is going to be a secure, temperature-controlled storage room. With a ceiling height just over 9’-0” and over 200 sq. ft, this room below the new deck addition is the perfect space for additional storage. Above this new room addition will be an outdoor kitchen and additional deck space.

Photos

Take a stroll through the photos to see where we are currently in this process. We’ve captioned each of them to give you a look behind the walls. We are excited to show you how this unique outdoor living space and storage room addition turns out in a future blog!

Access point inside the home for the storage room. The floor and several surfaces covered with plastic to protect while insulating.
Front door access point for the insulation installation. Plastic on the floors and plastic at the door, to keep the outside out along with the bugs!
This is what it looks like during the insulation process. We are so grateful to have trusted Banker Insulation as our insulation specialist for several years. They are in there somewhere!
All that blown insulation settled into its spaces. Drywall installed on the ceiling. Plywood acclimating so it can be ready to sheet the walls once the ceiling is complete.
Drywall installed on the ceiling, almost ready for texture.
The doorway in this photo is the entry for the new storage room.
This HEPA air scrubber cleans the lingering insulation particles. We utilize these on job sites regularly to clean the air after sanding drywall.

11 Sep 2019

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Design, Kitchen Remodels, Lifestyle, Storage Permalink

Trending Kitchen Storage and Design Ideas

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On September 11, 2019

Your dream kitchen is just around the corner! Categorically, the number one desire in remodeling a kitchen is to create more storage in the existing space. Obviously, this is a great way to give your kitchen the functionality it needs, but you can also infuse it with creativity along the way. Whether you are doing it yourself or having Tri-Lite Builders plan your new kitchen, you can be inspired by these trending kitchen storage and design ideas.

Reclaim and Recycle

Using reclaimed material is still on-trend and is expected to continue. Reclaimed wood is everywhere and easy to find cost-effectively or even free. Old shipping crates, used pallets, and old furniture are all sources for wood recycling. Using these materials may require sanding and refinishing to make the pieces usable. Some recycled wood will work for a more rustic look. It all comes down to the finished look you desire.

Kitchen Pantry

If organization and saving money are your goal, consider building a kitchen pantry. When building a pantry, think about the space in relation to having all the food items and small kitchen appliances you need for meal preparation within easy reach. Pantries are a great addition to keeping your weekly budget for groceries in hand since you can easily see what foods you have stored.

Material Combinations

Today’s trends invite you to think out of the box! Create striking visuals by mixing materials and tones for your kitchen cabinets. You can get this effect easily by using different materials and/or shades for upper and lower cabinets. For example, consider wooden lower cabinets, and upper cabinets with metal for an interesting contrast. Alternatively, you could consider a dark wood for the kitchen island, white cabinets for the base cabinetry. You can also use glass or open shelving for the upper cabinets. No longer are matching cabinets a necessity for an attractive looking kitchen. Choose materials that you like above any other factors.

Since you are designing the kitchen of your dreams, explore the different material choices as well as storage solutions. Kitchen storage possibilities aren’t limited to cabinets or a pantry. You can use the same creativity in your materials and design for kitchen islands. Check online to discover more kitchen storage options that will make your kitchen uniquely yours! You can also explore our award-winning kitchens in our portfolio here!

Home Remodeling in the Greater Phoenix Area

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

Drop us a line!

Get in touch with us!