New Twists Make it Easier
to Remodel

Despite a slow recovery in the economy, statistics show that home remodeling is on the rise here in the greater Santa Clara County area. It may be that in today's real estate market, it makes more sense to improve than move, especially given the hassle and cost of selling your home and moving all your belongings. Many homeowners tell us they haven't even considered moving – they're just tired of outdated kitchens, bathrooms, and cramped living space. Whatever the reason, remodeling is moving to the front burner, but with a few new twists.

Here's what we're seeing:

 

1. Priority-based remodeling. The "why not?" environment for high-end appliances and other expensive options is gone. The new twist is that clients are focusing less on "making a statement" with their remodeling, and focusing more on features that have a high ROI in terms of real-world functionality, energy efficiency and personal satisfaction. For example, why invest money – and floor space – in a six-burner commercial range if you don't ever cook with six burners? And yes, a whirlpool tub would be great, but will it give you as much satisfaction as spending that same amount of money elsewhere in a remodeling project?

 

2. Addition vs. interior renovation. Some of our clients initially say they want a home addition. As we develop a conversation about the idea, however, we're often able to offer a different solution by showing how they might renovate the interior space to create a new configuration that they desire. By doing the remodel within the home's existing footprint, the client may benefit from a lower budget or easier permit process (each case IS unique though). Another bonus is that renovating existing space can leave room in your yard as well. For example, instead of doing a kitchen addition, it might be possible to get the desired storage and floor plan by opening the existing kitchen and "stealing" a bit of space from adjacent rooms that are less-used than the kitchen.

 

3. Fresh – but classic. Today's up-to-the-minute colors and designs may have that "wow factor" now, but building them into your remodeling can eventually date your home. Homeowners today are more cautious than a few years ago. They don't want to risk tiring of a too-trendy look in their new kitchen, bath, or family room. Plus, if they want to move, they don't want a quirky floor plan or dated look to become an obstacle to resale.

We are all for personal style and fresh spaces, but our design team strives to translate each client's taste into classic, clean looks – whether for traditional or contemporary décor. This way, they can "re-do" the home down the road simply by changing the paint color and updating the accessories, rather than having to start over with cabinets, countertops, flooring and molding.

 

4. Find smart ways to save. A whirlpool tub may seem luxurious, but it's expensive in terms of price and the floor space it uses. That's vital if you're renovating within an existing footprint. Plus, many families find they never take the time to use them. An over-sized shower with a bench and glass walls might not only cost less, but offer greater satisfaction. In the kitchen, we can configure semi-custom cabinets that are more budget friendly, yet give you the look, function and features of "custom" cabinetry . And in the powder room, an elegant pedestal sink typically costs less than buying a sink, base cabinet and counter top. It can also make a smaller powder room feel more spacious.

The good news is that it is indeed a great time to remodel. By taking advantage of "new twists" you can not only make the very most of your budget, but you will also be able to appreciate the daily pleasure your home gives you.

 

If you'd like to start exploring your own remodeling options, let us share our experience and ideas.

Wake Up Your Master Suite

Feeling tired as you head to bed is one thing. Having your master suite feel tired is another! This is your getaway – your sanctuary. If you don't feel pampered, relaxed and refreshed, maybe it's time for an update! Here are a few little touches that can make a big difference in your bedroom, bathroom and closets.

 

Breakfast in bed. Imagine this: built-in bedroom storage plus your own private café! Cabinets that blend in with your décor can conceal a microwave, small refrigerator and even a sleek dishwasher-in-a-drawer. Enjoying a head start to busy days is easy with a single-serve coffeemaker right there as soon as you open your eyes. On lazy mornings, indulge in a luxurious breakfast without even leaving your room. For cozy evening retreats, add a wine cooler/refrigerator and stock up your own personal mini-bar!

Lighten up. Yes, you want closet lighting that lets you tell navy from black, and you sometimes want bright light in the bathroom. But you also want soft, cozy light. That's why cove lighting can be such a wonderful upgrade. We can build this lighting into ledges, recesses or valances so that the fixtures disappear and you can dim or brighten the light to give your room exactly the right glow. Chandeliers and sconces can add extra drama as well. If more natural light is desired, consider floor-to-ceiling windows or even doors that open to a patio or balcony.

            

Free your closet. Why keep beautiful cabinetry and shelving hidden? Consider opening up your closet into the bedroom. Using that open feel, we could create a visually appealing dressing area that almost makes it fun to select what to wear each morning. "His and Hers" fitted closet components keep everything from work clothes to workout wear in place.

 

Let it flow. Don't just open up the closet! One of the newest trends in master suites is to eliminate the doorway between the bedroom and bathroom. This creates an expansive sense of space. If you'd like more privacy, a separate commode room can be added, as well as pocket doors or sliding panels that can be open or closed as desired to separate the bath from the bedroom.

Entertain your options. You want your master suite to fully enhance your leisure time, so you'll want entertainment electronics at your disposal. Flat screen televisions, surround sound and even music docking stations are becoming must-have features in bedroom design. Custom cabinetry can house outlets for charging devices, control multi-media wiring, and even conceal your technology behind doors, when you want to get away from it all.

 

Put your feet up. Think outside the box of a typical bedroom and you can find room for an alcove or corner in your master suite to serve as your "sitting room" or study. A small upholstered chair and ottoman or a comfy chaise lounge with a side table make the perfect spot for your late night or early morning reading with your feet up and a cup of coffee or a glass of wine.

 

Relax by firelight. What could be more relaxing than curling up with a favorite book in front of the fireplace? Today, that's easier than ever because we can put a fireplace almost anywhere in your bedroom or bathroom. It doesn't even need to be on an exterior wall. In fact, today's fireplace options include glass enclosed "designer" flames that can be freestanding or inserted into the middle of a wall as a focal point. Remote controls make it so easy to enjoy gorgeous firelight whenever you like and you can shut the flames on and off instantly and safely.

 

These ideas are just the start. If you're thinking of upgrading, call us! We'd love to share many more simple little touches that can wake up your space and make you feel pampered and refreshed every day of the year!