ISLAND DESTINATIONS – Kitchen islands, that is.

April 3, 2016 By Steve Donato

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Thinking about having a kitchen island introduced into your remodeling plans? Here’s a few things to consider before you do.

Do you have a modern kitchen that might not even need this option? Have you explored other options?
Lay newspaper on the floor in the space you want to put an island to get a visual representation of the space you have to work with. Can you easily move around this “block” and do you think it will help you in the kitchen rather than be an inconvenience?
Are you able to fit this into your budget? It needs to be outfitted with proper cabinetry, surface, and possible appliances.
Will this island complete a functional work triangle for you? Will putting a cooktop or a sink into this island change your work triangle? Will this island make your work triangle easier to reach?
Do you need additional seating in your kitchen?
Will you have at least 3.5 feet of space around the surface of this island?
Is there room for your island to be at least 4 feet long and anywhere from 2 to 5 feet deep? If part of the existing kitchen were redesigned would it be a possibility?
What wiring and or plumbing issues will be needed for your island?
Are there structural challenges that need to be addressed?
What specialty features do you really want in your island?

Now is the time to start planning for your kitchen remodel, it’s tax return season! Make your kitchen your island destination. Contact us for a free consultation and design to see if you can have the island of your dreams.

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Key Considerations for Bathroom Remodeling

December 31, 2015 By Steve Donato

Make the most of your small bathroom with the right remodeling.

Bathroom remodeling can greatly enhance the beauty and personal comfort of your space. But with a median investment of about $15,000, the decision to remodel is not one to be made lightly. When you do choose to remodel, there are several important considerations to keep in mind.

Things to Consider

Stick to a budget
Leave your plumbing alone
Focus on lighting
Air it out

Stick to a Bathroom Remodeling Budget

It is important to set boundaries for your project before you begin. This will set the stage for the type of materials and design you can afford to choose for your bathroom remodeling. Knowing what you can afford to spend will keep you from venturing outside your means and help you prioritize where to focus your renovations.

Avoid moving plumbing when bathroom remodeling.

Leave Your Plumbing Alone

The idea of switching up the location of your sink and toilet can be appealing, but it’s not as simple as it may seem. The costs involved in moving your plumbing suck up your budget and the demolition can prolong your remodel.

Focus on Lighting

There are few aspects of your bathroom remodeling that are as important as lighting. Sconce lighting on the area surrounding your vanity mirrors eliminates shadows and enhances your reflection when installed at eye level. Adding more lighting overall is especially beneficial for small bathrooms, making them appear larger.

Air it Out

Ventilation is not the most glamorous aspect of bathroom remodeling, but it’s essential for removing humidity that causes mirrors to fog, floors to become slippery and mold and mildew to grow. Proper ventilation helps maintain healthy air and prevents damage that may lead to future renovations.

In the end, the best thing you can do for your bathroom remodel is to plan ahead. Get expert opinions, do your research and create a firm vision of the space you’d like to create before you begin renovations. Proper planning will save you time, money and headaches.

Kitchen Remodeling for Small Spaces

November 22, 2015 By Steve Donato

Make the most of your small space with some kitchen remodeling

If you live in a home with a small kitchen, making the most of your space is crucial to the room’s efficiency and comfort. When it comes to kitchen remodeling, there are several ways in which you can maximize the space and make it appear larger than it is. To achieve the perfect balance, there are several important tips to keep in mind.

Remodeling Tips

Functionality is key
Work with white
Open up your cabinets
Work the walls

Functionality is Key

A small kitchen doesn’t have the space to do it all, so when you think about kitchen remodeling the key is to focus on the area’s primary function – cooking. Start by establishing designated space for the necessary appliances and work areas. Only after that should you consider adding other features.

Adding white can really open up a space during kitchen remodeling

Work with White

White not only brightens up a space but also makes it look bigger. While white walls, counter tops and cabinets open up the room they can also leave the space feeling a little flat. To spice things up, add pops of color throughout the room using curtains, rugs and other fabrics.

Open Up Your Cabinets

In a small kitchen, cabinet doors can close off your space and leave you feeling boxed in. So when kitchen remodeling, consider investing in open storage instead. The room will look more spacious and allow you to display your favorite dishes and artwork.

Work the Walls

When kitchen remodeling, counter and cabinet space can fill up quickly. So what’s next? Your walls can be an unexpected but useful area for storage. Save space in your work area by hanging utensils and measuring cups on hooks and storing other larger items on shelves.

In the end, kitchen remodeling comes down to creativity. It’s crucial to think outside the box with your storage, shelving, light and decorating to maximize your room and give the illusion of space.