Uncategorized

Upgraded cabinets? Double sinks? Thoroughly luxurious shower heads? If youre thinking of renovating your master bath, youre not alone, say homeowners surveyed in a recent True Cost Report. It seems some 25 percent of those who responded are considering a bathroom re-do, far more than the 15 percent who are thinking of renovating the kitchen.

For one thing, bathroom upgrades are more manageable and less disruptive than kitchen remodels. They typically cost less and require less time – and, according to a report from Remodeling Magazine, bathroom remodels return a startling 86.4 percent return on investment, more than any other home improvement project.

Thats not surprising, given that well-appointed bathrooms are increasingly regarded as private sanctuaries where you can take time to pamper yourself, so in addition to making basic fixes – replacing worn tile, chipped sinks and outmoded toilets – homeowners are adding spa-like upgrades, such as rain shower heads, spa tubs and specialized lighting.

They are looking at floating tubs rather than sunken tubs, luxurious gold or brass hardware and self-flushing toilets with heated seats and cleansing warm water sprays, designers say, and choosing quartz counters, floating vanities, quality sinks and faucets and glass shower doors treated with water anti-spotting agents.

To get a light, bright space, they add windows and skylights, use LED lighting in creative ways, and choose reflective finishes and surfaces in neutral tones set off with bold colored tile or patterned flooring.

Depending upon your space, and the number and type of amenities you choose, a bathroom remodel can cost somewhere between $2,500 and $25,000 or more, although costs can be cut if you do some of the work yourself, such as the teardown and final painting.

But whether you plan to enjoy your investment for years, or see it as a good investment when you sell, the project is a practical option. While you may not recoup everything your spent, it remains a high return project, and one that can provide a little pure pleasure for as long as you live in your home.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

If you’re like many people, you tend to do at least a little work from home.

Dont let an outdated office hold you back.

Give your home office an upgrade by splurging on something inspirational. Something that excites you.

Next, focus on lighting. The best bet is to set up your work station by a window.
And be sure to incorporate lamps into the space. They will come in handy when working after hours.

Set yourself up for further success with a good storage system.
While papers should be stored out of sight, they need to be accessible.

Lastly, create a signal to let people know when youre in the zone.

By upgrading your work space, youre destined for success.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

If you look around your house and realize that you are in need of some character, it can make you anxious. Adding character can mean upgrading and remodeling your home, which can cost a lot of money. But with some creativity and a little bit of elbow grease, you can DIY your way to a home full of character and personality, without breaking the bank.

Frame the Views
Window treatments can get expensive very quickly. But updating the frame of your view outside doesnt have to cost you a dime. Simply hang your draperies higher than the actual windows to make the room feel larger. You can even add sheers behind your curtains for added depth.

Use Unused Spaces
In almost every home, there is a space that is unused, whether it be a corner in the living room or a window seat. Give those spaces a purpose, even if that purpose is a card table for games, some pillows for a quiet place to sit and read, or a spot for an interesting piece of furniture.

Display Savvy Storage Options
No matter the room, there always seems to be a need for extra storage. Instead of spending hundreds on a new cabinet or wall shelving, utilize new and interesting pieces. Have an old dresser you no longer use? Remove the drawer pulls and place them on the wall for a unique way to store household items. Even hang up a drawer organizer on the wall to store sunglasses and keys in your foyer.

Get Creative With Cabinets
A simple and cost effective way to add a little something to your space can be done with paint. Bring new life to your kitchen by painting the cabinets a bright color. Or, paint a few stencils on the cabinets in the bathroom to add depth and detail. Change out door handles and drawer pulls for a small design change that can result in big impact.

Dont Forget the Doors
Most homeowners can go their whole life without ever changing the door knobs throughout the house. Of course, the front door may already have some character, but why not add a little personality to your bedroom or bathroom door? Most home improvement stores and websites offer a variety of door knobs, simply or elaborately designed, that can add a touch of personality to any space.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

If were being honest, some home materials can simply stand the test of time better than others. This is especially true if your house is exposed to a harsh climate or undergoes the everyday wear and tear that comes with kids and pets running around. While some materials are at their best when theyre shiny and new, others can develop a beautiful patina that adds character. Here are a few such materials that will continue to look better with age.

Copper
Copper can be used for a variety of applications around the home, from gutters and cladding to sinks, bathtubs and light fixtures. Wherever you choose to use it, eventually copper will oxidize and its shiny dark orange appearance will develop a distinguished look with shades of blue and green. This will happen noticeably faster when used outside and theres no greater example of this than the Statue of Liberty.

Terracotta
The warm earth tones of terracotta often contribute to a timeless aesthetic, whether its used for tile floors or pottery in your garden. One of the reasons this material has been around for so long is that it fares well in the elements and, in fact, the texture gets even richer. When you decide to splurge on beautiful handmade terracotta for your home, you can rest assured that it will endure.

Reclaimed Wood
One of the best parts about using reclaimed wood in your home is that its flaws are actually part of the appeal. The scuffs and scratches that developed over time tell the story of its past life and eventually turn into an inimitable patina. Rather than having to worry about keeping your floors flawless, it can be nice to embrace the imperfections with a rustic look. This is especially true if you have dogs, which can take a toll on hardwood floors.

Natural Stone
If you have natural stone floors, like travertine or sandstone, you can certainly expect this surface to change over time. As the stone takes on a weathered look, the texture will become smoother and develop a soft luster that many people find desirable.

Published with permission from RISMedia.