Fireplace Remodeling Project
Looking at your fireplace area gives you the feeling that you need to call your home remodeling architects. It’s like giving you a message that it needs a refashioning, but you just don’t know where to start. Especially this winter season, fireplaces are the best source of heat within the household. It is also where you mostly spend time with your cup of tea or coffee while relaxing. If you happen to have a big space by your fireplace it is also where you gather around with family or friends and share some good laughs, chats and sometimes fun games. There are also other homeowners who also add an outdoor fireplace either by the patio or at the poolside area. With a lot of fireplace designs coming out its flexibility is can already give you the assurance that there is no “right” place for it for as long as it can serve its purpose. Now, with the need of your fireside to be remodeled, you have to find inspiration from the following ideas that will guide you on how you can give a new look to your common-looking fireplace. SOME FIREPLACE DESIGN IDEAS – Use An Attention Seeking Mantle. Every plain-looking fireplaces need an element that can draw the crowd’s attention. An antique or vintage-looking wooden mantle can set a warm tone within the area and can transform your living room into a focal point. By doing that it will not only be your furnaces that will be a head-turner but the fireplace most especially. – Try A Stylish Hearth Screen. You may not notice it at first, but a fireplace screen can really add a statement to the area where it is standing. It creates a scenario where it is being protective of the people that will be gathering close to the hearth while at the same time shows how attractive it become. – The Contrasting Color Approach. Painting the surrounding area of your fireplace can compliment the fireside and furniture around it. Like if your fireplace is black, you can paint the walls with the shades of gray while everything else in the room is wearing blue and white tones. – Surround It With Artworks And Paintings. If you’re a lover of the arts and everything else about this craft, then placing some abstract paintings over your fireplace can instantly draw attention. Anyone who enters the room can have their attention fixated on the attractive colors and design of the artwork itself. Prices of an artwork vary so you really have to be a wise spender if you wanted to keep your makeover on the less costly side. – Make Use Of Rustic Wood. Using reclaimed wood can transform any place or furniture into a vintage piece that tells so much story. And if you use it to remodel your fireplace it will definitely bring out a different character and drama. Keep the entire room in style and your fireplace can already take care of itself. GIVE IT A DIFFERENT CHARACTER – Stick To Black And White. Modern homes never set aside the B&W color scheme and […]
Read more
Ways To Choose Your Dream Bath Tub
About bathroom home remodeling addition plans, you definitely have on your list getting yourself a new and stylish bathtub, especially if you’ve always wanted to have one. Although having a shower is enough to get clean whenever you are really in a hurry, the bathtub can really give you a relaxing feel if you have extra time to dive in. Bathtubs are like mini pools that are not only space where you can wash but is also a place that gives your entire body a soothing and refreshing aftermath. It lets you ease down and meditate while enjoying the little “me” time. But before you give your bathroom a renovation go, you have to make sure that what you are replacing it with or installing is what you really need and is compatible with your space. TYPES OF TUBS Aside from the cleaning function, bathtubs can also do other things which you should be aware of. Standard. The standard bathtub is the basic built-in shower and tub in one. It’s the most affordable type and can be purchased from local home depots and centers. Air Tubs and Whirlpool. If you wanted to experience a bath-massage with a therapeutic effect the air tub and whirlpool is what you need. The whirlpool blasts water through the tub jets while the air tub reinforces soothing air into the water. The whirlpool alone happens to be more expensive than the air tub so together they are a bit pricey. Soaking. The soaking tub gives your body more room to be submerged as you bath. It can also be freestanding or built-in depending on your preference. Walk-In. If you have kids or elderly family members in the house, it would be risky for them to climb in and out of the tub as it can be slippery. The best option is the walk-in tubs to keep your family safe. BATHTUB MATERIALS Bathtubs can really be a focal point in any bathrooms, especially if it is uniquely designed. However, tub materials can also play a big role in how you can enjoy the benefits of having a bathtub for the price that fits your budget and lifestyle. Acrylic This light-weight-glossy plastic material looks like a cast iron that can be easily formed which is used for air tubs and whirlpools. It’s also easier to repair compared to the porcelain tub material. Fiberglass This material uses gelcoat in order to make it look more glossy. The fiberglass material is also known as the fiberglass-reinforced plastic or FRP. It’s easier to clean and is much cheaper than the acrylic, though it’s not as durable as the other materials and can easily crack once hit by a hard element. Composite This genuinely-engineered enamel coated material is resistant to heat just like the cast iron tubs. Because of this, it makes it one of the best choices by higher-classed household. Cultured Marble The cultured marble is a solid element that was formed from crushed marble with resin and coated with gelcoat. Although scratches and stains can easily be removed from this type of material, cracks could no longer be repaired. […]
Read more
Home Makeover For Thanksgiving
IS YOUR HOME READY FOR THANKSGIVING? One of the most awaited festivity is just waving around the corner – THANKSGIVING! Who isn’t excited about it, right? Just imagine the enticing food that will be served and shared with the whole family and friends that would like to share the event with you. But before you get all psyched make sure to check with your home addition design experts about certain home improvement details that you need to deal with before the big day arrives. Remember, Thanksgiving is not just about the food served on the table but is also about the ambiance of your home – both interior and exterior. WHY IS THANKSGIVING SO FESTIVE? Thanksgiving is one of the best days all over America. It’s a holiday that gives tribute and honor to American history and one way of celebrating it is through a festive Thanksgiving feast. WAYS TO IGNITE THE THANKSGIVING SPIRIT You probably have so much in mind on how you can bring the Thanksgiving atmosphere into your home, but in order to avoid being short or way too over about decorations, here are some tips for you. Start With The Senses. When it comes to Thanksgiving decors, start with the variety of colors that are pleasing to your eyes. How about adding some scent or aroma of corn stalks both on your porch and in your backyard area. Then don’t forget to play some music that will boost the sound of the Thanksgiving spirit and let it be heard all throughout your house. Stick To The Shades Of Thanksgiving. The basic colors of Thanksgiving are purple, green or even green, red, brown, orange, and yellow. If you happen to be packing your Halloween decors, you can leave the corn stalks, leave, and pumpkins behind because they also add up to the Thanksgiving spirit. You can also have two different kinds of pumpkins as a centerpiece in your living room or dining area. Do not forget to have those hues visible on your pillows, placemats, tablecloths and fabrics, doormats and a lot more. Of Course, Flowers Are In. Just so you know, flowers are the highlight of the Thanksgiving vibe. They are the symbol of the festivity. Filling your home with blooms of different kinds will totally set the mood as well as dried leaves decorated in your own artistic way is a plus factor. Let There Be Light! Definitely! One way of setting a great Thanksgiving mood is your lighting effects. You can make use of candles and place them where you wanted to highlight the shades of Thanksgiving. You can also put candles on your backyard hangout spot for a more inviting mood. Don’t Forget The Fruit And Vegetable Basket. You can decorate them at the center of your dining table – both indoors and outdoors to complete the entire Thanksgiving set up. Set Up A Memorabilia Area Why not set up a trip down memory lane by placing or adding family photos in your living room area. You can bring out the old pictures of your great-grandparents or your family pics during your celebration […]
Read more
The Right Lights For Your Rooms
When installing a lighting system in your home, your home remodeling architects will be deciding the right bulbs and lighting style that is perfect for the different rooms in your house. See, each and every room in your home has different personalities plus, the character of the one using the room and the family that is living in it. There are various bulb styles and fixtures that you can choose from that will really make you feel like you wanted them all, yet just like what they say “you simply can’t have it all”, why? Because a lighting style is specifically designed for a specific room type and area. THE DIFFERENT KINDS OF BULBS When it comes to bulbs there are three types that you should be aware of: The Incandescent The known traditional bulb that everyone has used for ages. This bulb, however, is slowly being phased out to give way to the more energy-saver ones. This type of bulb produces a yellowing warm light. The Compact Fluorescent Bulbs This bulb uses less energy than incandescent bulbs and can be used longer. Their lights are cooler though varies in brightness and temperature levels. They do contain mercury, which means you have to dispose of them the safest way possible. The LEDs The most used bulb nowadays because they are as adequate as CFLs, but they last longer. They are commonly used as task lighting before because of their harsh light emission, but now they can look like incandescent and have other bulb styles too. They are more energy efficient and can be touched as well. THE RIGHT FIXTURES Now that you are aware of the different types of bulbs and the level of brightness that you wanted, it’s time for you to choose the kind of room fixture together with where you can and should be using them. The Ceiling Mount A common ambient lighting that is best in hallways, foyers, work areas, bedrooms, and stairways. The Chandeliers Used as ambient or general lighting, this fixture is ideal in bedrooms and dining rooms. Remember that a lighting fixture with an intricate design will automatically appear larger or bigger. Its grandeur will stand out when used in high ceilings. The Wall-Mounted This wall-mounted fixture is like a candlestick design lamp or sconces. They are used in any room as ambient, task, or accent lighting system. This kind of fixture is used in bathrooms in the vanity area. The Pendant You can often see this fixture style in dining room areas, countertops or workstations. It works efficiently as a task or general lighting because since it’s hanging its glare focuses directly on what you are doing. The Recessed This fixture can be installed anywhere and its brightness depends on where you will be installing it. Recessed lightings are used as general, accent or task lighting. The Track Lighting It works like a spotlight and is versatile enough to be rotated in any direction you prefer. It can also be installed anywhere to just illuminate your room or any specific area in the house. It is often used to highlight an artwork […]
Read more
The Various Types of Lights For Your Home
A home renovation is not complete without the lightings that will illuminate the beauty and success of the aftermath. Your home remodeling architects are trained and experienced enough to supply your home, not only with the stylish set of lighting there is now in the market, but the right and appropriate lights that will complement your home and your needs. The Main Types Of Lighting That You Should Know Okay, so if you go out to a home retailer store or a home depot only to find a handful of unique and amazing lighting designs there is definitely that part of you that wanted to take them all home and use them in your newly renovated turf. However, that is not always the same, which is also a mistake made by most homeowners who do not seek a home remodeling expert and prefers to apply their DIY-ing skills. With the many lighting out there in the market, you will really get confused what and which to choose that will fit the rooms in your home. Luckily, here is a guide for you that will explain the three (3) major lighting types you need to know in order for you to pick the right lighting fixture to achieve the desired brightness inside your home. AMBIENT LIGHTING (Universal Lighting) The ambient light is considered the most common lighting type that emits a gentle glow around your space without establishing a blinding light. The “natural” light from this system is what cinematographers and photographers prefer in their subject space. When it comes to the aspect of ornament, the ambient light is just basic, although you can create it by having the room’s flare as flat and as rustic as you wanted it to be. Yet, the ambient is not suggested for working area or if you wanted to point up things around your area. Atmosphere: The moment you have figured out the right way of using the ambient light, you can easily create a relaxing environment within your abode to overcome stress or just to have a great conversation with family and friends over a hot cup of tea or coffee. It’s a mood lighting since it gently emphasizes the shape of your face and lets your pupils dilate naturally which is a sign of affection. Even yoga studios are starting to use ambient lighting to help clients curb off their stress. How to Achieve the Ambient lighting environment? Use the following lights: Recessed or Tracked Lights Chandeliers and Pendants Wall Sconces and Wall Lights TASKING LIGHTING The task lighting is a more centered lighting system which is used around a working area. Others call it an “office lighting” because its purpose is to create a glow that can help you see the work you are doing like reading, writing, sewing, cooking, and other things which requires your visual attention. To achieve a productive task lighting, you have to set it up as a contrasting light. Like if you are in a barely lit room, turn on a table lamp and it will illuminate the entire room with less glare but is […]
Read more
Things You Should Avoid When Doing A Home Renovation
Your independence and responsibility to your family had already reached another level and that is having your current abode undergo a renovation. You have sought the expertise of a home addition builder, and so far is going through some details. However, there are some blunders that a homeowner like you make before, during, and after the remodeling process. These personal lapses greatly affect the total outcome and renovation phase and experts would like to condone themselves for not providing enough reminders and pointer during the “pre” renovation negotiation. But the fact of the matter is, home remodeling experts could no longer stress enough how a homeowner can avoid certain “oversight” in renovating their homes. SOME HOME REFASHIONING ABERRATIONS YOU SHOULD NOT DO Because having a home remodeling can really be overwhelming, there are decisions and actions that you may or might do as your “project” progresses. Below you shall encounter tips about the things that you should be avoiding when undergoing a home refurbishing – which basically applies to both new and old homeowners. IMPULSIVELY GIVING THE RENOVATION A “GO” Renovation experts and real estate gurus advise movers and homeowners to experience a bit more about their homes before finalizing any renovation plans. You may be too stoked to get that living room overhauled, but get a feel of the actual area first as well as the entire house. Because once the renovation starts, there is no more turning back. UNDERESTIMATING THE NEEDED BUDGET You might think that because it’s just your kitchen that is being remodeled, you will just be spending for that particular work alone. Well, sorry to surprise you, but you have to anticipate that there is more job to be done than you can imagine. So experts advise to always add an additional 20% to your actual budget to be prepared for whatever surprises you may encounter. TOO MUCH EXPECTATION Not all reconstructions are smooth sailing. Especially if you are planning to renovate an old house there could be more unforeseen cases that are beyond your workers’ control. Always expect the unexpected, because although your contractors would try their utmost effort to make everything work according to the original plan there is always the chance that nothing will. So always expect less. HIRING A DESIGNER IS NOT A PRIORITY Some people think that it will cost them more if they acquire professional assistance from interior designers and architects. But the truth is, they will be spending more out of their pockets without any experts help. Therefore, avoid making the same mistake as most have because hiring their services will actually help you save more than you can imagine. CHOOSING THE LOWEST OFFER Another mistake by many homeowners is going for the cheapest contractor bid. In fact, you will be getting more out of your money if you vouch for a skilled and experienced professional. So invest in hiring the best services rather than those who offer a much affordable service and can work with you right away. NOT ALL PROFESSIONALS ARE COMPATIBLE TO WORK WITH This is the other side of what is stated in #5. […]
Read more
How About A Staircase Makeover
Have you ever looked at your staircase and have thought of giving it a new look? Perhaps it’s about time that you include it in your home addition design plans since having a great looking staircase adds to the character of your home. You should not run out of reasons why your staircase or stairway is the least of your home renovation priority because it also reflects your lifestyle. But before you proceed in renovating your stairs and balustrade check out some of the main reasons why homeowners find it important to give their staircase or stairway an impressive makeover. REASONS WHY STAIRCASES SHOULD BE REMODELED TOO Outdated stairs and railings can dismay possible home buyers if you decide to sell your home in the future. The rattling and cracking sound of your stairs every time you walk on it means you need to fix it. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for. Looking at your staircase or stairway makes you stress and think about the pathetic excuse interior design. You wanted to give your interior a different kind of vibe by upgrading your balustrade into something new to your interior and refreshing to the eye. You wanted your staircase to be the focal point of your home to attract buyers. You found the time to DIY your home’s stair and balustrade. A grand and elegant looking staircase adds value to the entire home. Your current stairs and balustrades had to meet your cities building codes and requirements. You’ve discovered that your staircase is no longer safe and can potentially cause danger. Do you find your reasons above too? Now, let’s move on the best part – the Designs, Styles, and Décor. GIVE YOUR STAIRWAY A NEW LIFE Let’s get started. FLOORING The floor is what gives your stairway a character which also occupies the largest surface in your home or room. The style and design will depend, of course, on your budget, the kind of maintenance you sustain and the decors that you would want to have. Carpet Carpeting is one of the most common floor décor preferred by many homeowners. It provides a different kind of warmth and inviting feeling in your interior. The comfort that it gives your sole is one of its major qualities why many love it so much. Aside from its ability to reduce noise not just on your stairway, but all over the house too. Carpet is also preferred by homes with growing kids and elderly because it provides an additional safety feature during an unexpected trip or fall. Now, there are two kinds of carpeting style: Full Carpeting If you wanted a full coverage of your floor area, full carpeting is your solution. It’s a good choice to cover your floor’s aging problem as it will completely make it as good as new. Although this can be really pricey, it’s best to discuss your plans with your trusted contractor before you give it a go. Carpet Runners If you don’t want to fully cover your entire flooring, runners can do the job for you. They can leave the edges of your […]
Read more
Time To Spice Up Your Bathroom
So you have already set your heart on pushing a home renovation project this year with the help of the trusted architects’ builder in your area. You’ve got your kitchen, living room and probably the bedroom on your checklist, however, there are amazing and cool bathroom designs that might fit your taste. Imagine preparing for the day in a stylish bathroom like it has transported you to a different place, nothing beats that experience. So if you wanted to have an awesome mood and an inspiring spirit before you head out your bedroom try giving your bathroom the kind of twist that you will surely be proud of. Give Your Bathroom A New Face-lift Reshaping some parts of your home is like opening your doors to new beginnings and experiences. Trying out the latest bathroom designs will give you the opportunity to embrace a fresh start as well as for the rest of your family. The Secret Of The Misty Interiors Many had believed that once you’ve used darker hues in your interior it will make the room smaller and it never worked with bathrooms as well. But that belief has changed now and it was a good overturn. You just have to make the right blend of light and dark combinations where the darker colors are used in smaller areas and amounts. One great effect is the small dark wall and wooden floor combination while everything else is white or chestnut colored bathroom furnishings. The Rose Gold Effect Thanks to the rose gold version of the latest iPhone many designers have seen the glamour in this hue. Incorporating this color in your bathroom revamp will definitely give your space a different personality. Just imagine how limitless colors can be when used in your indoor façade. The Classis Grey This color scheme may seem laid back, but it’s actually a trend this year. Needless to say, the grey bathroom will just provide you with elegance in a subtle way. It offers you both the traditional and modernized bathroom setting that will last for years. It means you don’t have to worry that your bathroom fashion statement will just soon be a fad because it surely is too vogue to become one. Make Way For the J-Shaped Theme Have you heard of the J-shaped bathroom design? If not, then you can probably opt to this bath fashion if you wanted to give your bath space a trendy, millennial look. The common bath shapes that have been overused in the market are the L-shaped and the P-shape baths, but now with the J-shaped pattern, your bathroom area will instantly give out a fashionable and an up-to-date charm. The Old-School Patterned Tiles Another classic, but surely have stood the test of the interior fashion industry, patterned tiles continue to make an impression in such an improving way. If you’re aware of the Victorian, Moroccan, and the Spanish tiles then you can already picture how the patterned tiles look like. One way of providing your bathroom a statement is by using plain hues on the walls and patterned tiled as your bath flooring. There […]
Read more
Some Amusement Space Ideas
When working on a home remodel project you will eventually find a bigger space than you expected. Now, after all, your excess and unwanted junks and space have been decluttered and cleaned, then you shall see the other unused spaces that have been sitting there. And maybe this time, you can make use of that space as your recreation area. Of course, you will be needing an area where all the amusement and party happens. It is where you can play your favorite video games, play pool with your friends or even bowling if your space is really big enough. It can be a spot for a small gathering and for a few drinks. It can be a room where you can go crazy with your kids and become like a kid again. How Do You Want Your Hobby Room To Be? If you don’t want to make a mess out of your living room or you basically don’t have any room for your past time activities, then maybe you can convert your outdated attic or basement into something – amusing. When you think about entertainment, you instantly visualize about gaming consoles, board games, ping pong table, pool table, or an entertainment system which realistically needs space. And your basement is just the perfect spot for you all your toys. Personalized Gym If you wanted to be fit, but don’t have the time to visit the gym, then you can bring the gym into your home. You can set up a mini gym in your basement with the right theme and lighting, you will be excited to burn some calories every single day. Besides, if that’s what relaxation is for you then do whatever pleases you. Billiard Area Dear, who don’t play pool or have been addicted to billiards and wished they can have their own pool table? Well, there’s a lot of people who are still in this classic leisure game. And if you’re one of them, then it’s about time to have your own pool table so you can just invite your friends over or play a match game with your father. For sure, elderly folks like him still got the moves like he’s traveled back when he was your age. Very Own Home Theater If you and your family are movie buffs it is just right to convert your basement into a theater or movie room. Make sure you are investing in the finest home theater system that will bring out the quality in every movie, series or show that you will be watching as well as its digital sounds. Don’t forget about the proper lighting system too. Plus comfy seats or long lounge sofa for a more satisfying comfort and entertainment. Rec Room With An Outdoor Feel If you wanted to go the extra mile with your past time area revamp project, then you can also install an electric fireplace to set an outdoor mood. This is perfect if you wanted to spend some quality and intimate time with your partner or just a downtime moment with your hood. Dim lights are perfect as well as […]
Read more
Give Your Outdoor Space A New Spice
So you’ve been seeing a lot of information and tips about backyard and outdoor remodeling ideas, but this time it’s going to be all about upgrading your porch or front entryway area. Your exterior front entry is the first sight that your guests will be seeing every time they come over. It’s your front porch and front door that will be welcoming your visitors and will be greeting you when you come home from work. If you’re having a hard time doing your entryway renovation homework, then here are some tips for you. Porch and Entryway Ideas Whether you have a small or a big porch area, you can always spice it up with different tools and accessories to provide your entryway a new character and improve the appeal of your house. Make Use Of A Covered Overhead As Entrance. Having a covered overhead added or attached to your front door entry does not only serve as an appealing decorative but is also a great shade whenever there is a rain or storm. This looks great on small-spaced porches because it does not only add detail to your main doorway is also a great spot to hang out with your guest or just have a coffee or tea time. You Will Never Go Wrong With Lanterns Lanterns are not just for indoors sitting on your grandmother’s side table rather they can also perfectly accentuate your outdoor area too. Having the right lighting posted or hanging from your front entrance and porch will totally elevate the façade of your entryway. There are a wide variety of lanterns you can choose for your porch area from the traditional to the modern ones. But classics will always present you that nostalgic feeling so going for the old-fashioned lanterns will transport your guests back to the old times. Consider A Door Replacement Door designs are silently presenting a huge impact on the totality of your home. That although you have modernized your windows and reconstructed the architectural tone for your entire house, that sentimental-looking grandfather’s door seems to be representing your home the opposite way. Match your door with how modern or classic your house is styled. The Classic Window Boxes Window boxes are the timeless classics of outdoor home décor. But there are also styles that will perfectly fit the different modern window styles no matter what kind of paint or finish it may be. But, you see, these old-school flower boxes never run out of style and so will your windows once you’ve accessorized them with these seamless boxes. More Exterior Décor Ideas Gate Is Still In Protection or exterior décor it doesn’t matter. Mini gates together with landscaping can go beyond your wildest outdoor ideas. As classic as they look, low masonry gates or wooden gates will just give your front garden entrance a classical ambiance. It’s like you’re experiencing the 70’s or the 80’s this 21st Try experimenting with it and it will place you on the map. Remodel Your Driveway It may be your least priority, but your driveway is part of your entrance area so it should also […]
Read more