Choosing the Right Colors

Q: What's the most important role color plays in a room?

A: It sets the mood for a room. The color you choose is really about what you want the room to feel like.

Q: Do you tend to use one color scheme throughout the entire interior, or mix it up room to room?

A: In general, I feel it's important to have continuity throughout the entire house. I'll use one or two colors throughout the house, and then mix in other accent colors. That gives continuity, but at the same time allows the various rooms to have different personalities.

Q: What kind of classic color combinations do you think work best?

A: Blue and white, yellow and green for a kitchen, red and black for a very formal dining room. For a library, I would suggest chocolate brown and camel or dark green and navy blue. I like burgundy and khaki, navy and khaki, or dark green and khaki. And grays and blues look really great together.

Q: What kind of guidelines would you suggest if someone wants to use bold colors?

A: You need to be aware that you will likely get tired of bold colors very quickly. If you really want to incorporate a strong, bold color, use it as an accent. Bold colors are often attractive because they are the color of the moment; this can quickly date a room.

Q: How should the homeowner account for different lighting in choosing colors?

A: Select three shades of the color you want: where you think you want to be, and one shade lighter and one shade darker. Do this with paint, wallpaper, or fabric swatches. Put the samples in two places: next to the window and in a darker corner. Look at them at different times during the day and at night. Then make your decision.

Q: Is a neutral color scheme always appropriate?

A: No. It totally depends on the house, the location, the architecture, and the personality of the homeowner. It's about trying to keep a balance. An entire neutral house can be boring.

Q: How do you use color to affect relationship and the relationship with other decorative elements?

A: Color is key to how the decor is perceived. If it's a big room, paint it a brighter, warmer color to bring the walls in. Paint a smaller room a cooler color to push the walls out. Color also establishes visual weight and balance. If you put a bold primary-based piece of art in a pastel room, it's probably not going to seem right. The colors of the art should balance the colors of the space.

Q: What are the challenges homeowners face in choosing colors and color schemes?

A: Sometimes people are scared of color, especially dark colors. Ultimately, people should really follow their heart: If they love a color, test it, and like it in place, they should not be afraid to choose it.

How To Choose The Right Colors for Home.

How to Choose a Color Scheme

Discover your color preferences with eight tips for picking perfect color palettes.
 Pick a color, any color.
If only choosing a color palette for your interiors was that easy. It can be, thanks to designer Mark McCauley. The author of Color Therapy at Home: Real Life Solutions for Adding Color to Your Life, he offers eight tips to help you discover your color preferences and take on white walls.
Tip #1. Choose a color scheme from the largest pattern in the space.
If you've got patterned upholstery, an Oriental rug or large piece of artwork, pluck colors you like from the pattern. For a neutral wall paint color, look to the pattern's whites and beiges.
Tip #2. Start with the formal areas of the house.
Specifically, the living room, dining room and entry way. Choose a color scheme for those areas first, then pull one color from the scheme. For example, take the red sofa and tone it down (say, to burgundy) for an accent in more private spaces such as the den, office or bedroom.
Tip #3. Decorate your space from dark to light, vertically.
A real "cookbook" way to make any space look good without much risk, McCauley says, is to use darker color values for the floor, medium color values for the walls and light values for the ceiling.
"Any interior space replicates the outside world," he says. "The exterior environment is generally darker below our feet (the earth itself), medium-valued as you look straight ahead (buildings/trees) and lighter values skyward."
Tip #4. Study the color of your clothes.
Most people buy clothes in colors they like to wear and think they look good in. Similarly, you should decorate your rooms in colors you look good in. "If you don't wear yellow, don't get a yellow sofa," McCauley says. "You're going to look sickly on it."
 Tip #5. Use the color wheel.
In general, analogous color schemes — colors next to each other on the color wheel, such as blue and green — are more casual and relaxing, and work best in informal or private spaces. This is a good strategy for a bedroom, where you want to rest and recover.
Whatever color scheme you choose, McCauley advises to put something black in every room. "The black clarifies all the rest of the colors in the room," he says. Try a black lampshade, a black vase or a black picture frame.
Tip #6. Use the rule of 60-30-10.
"When decorating a space, divide the colors in the space into components of 60 percent of a dominant color, 30 percent of a secondary color and 10 percent of an accent color," McCauley says. The walls will most likely be the majority, the upholstery would represent the secondary color and accessories such as a floral arrangement or throw pillows would make up the rest. "Works every time!" he says. "The colors are properly balanced and there is a shot of color (the 10 percent color) for interest."
 Tip #7. Go with the architecture.
If you have a small room in your house, don't paint it white to make it seem bigger. Instead, cozy up to its architecture with a rich, warm color scheme. Let your big rooms expand with light, and your small rooms wrap you up and nurture you.
Tip #8. Follow your personal style.
If you decorate honestly, other people will appreciate it because it's you, even if they'd never decorate their own house in the same way. That means if you want to make every room in your house red, white and blue, go for it. You can make any color look good as long as it's your taste.

How to Design a Kitchen

Basic Tips for Kitchen Remodeling
Kitchens come in all shapes and sizes, which accounts for a lot of their challenge -- and a lot of their appeal. The same cabinets, appliances, and surfacing materials can look entirely different in someone else's home than in yours. Stock cabinets can be given a unique look with virtually unlimited specialty finishes and a change of hardware. If your budget can accommodate custom cabinets, your choices are even greater. Countertop materials already come in a great array of choices, but they can be customized even further with special routing or inset bands of another color or material. The same goes for flooring, walls, and in-kitchen dining furniture. So even if your kitchen is small and ordinary, it's not hopeless!

You can transform it into a remarkable space unlike anybody else's. Manufacturers and designers have seen it all, and the end result is that you can have all the amenities you want and need, even in a tiny kitchen. Savvy, space-saving products are available for the owner of the apartment-size condo, co-op, or townhouse kitchen. You'll find that convenience doesn't have to come only in the large economy size.

To create a distinctive space, your first move is to look at your kitchen with an eye to what might serve as a focal point. A large window, alcove, or long wall can be the start. Take advantage of a bank of beautiful windows with an eye-catching counter that runs the length of the window wall. If you love to entertain and are lucky enough to have ample space, consider setting your room up to include two back-to-back kitchens; one with a full-size range, a fridge, ovens, and a sink, and the other with an ice-maker, a wine chiller, a second sink, a mini-fridge, and a microwave, plus an abundance of storage. Pretty much anything you dream up can be executed with the help of a talented design team. It's up to you!

Whether your space is large or small, and whether the end result you want is pretty or pretty wild, you'll do best if you stick close to the following basic recommendations.

Try to keep the straight-line distance between the sink, fridge, and cooktop between 12 and 23 feet.


Position the sink between the other two appliances, since it's used most often. (The sink's location may depend on pre-existing plumbing lines.)


Allow for 36 inches of counterspace to the right and 30 inches to the left of the range and sink if at all possible; if not, allow a minimum of 24 inches and 18 inches.


It's tempting to place a tall fridge and built-in wall oven next to each other, but try not to; each needs its own landing space on both sides of the appliance for safety.


Try to include a minimum of 10 linear feet of both base cabinets and upper cabinets.


Utilize lazy Susans to make potentially wasted corners fully functional.


Use pull-out drawers rather than reach-in, conventional cabinets for greatest convenience. If you're retro-fitting existing cabinets, have pull-out trays installed.


Consider barrier-free design and products. They make life easier for children, pregnant women, and seniors as well as individuals with disabilities. They'll also add to the longevity of your kitchen.
The biggest factor influencing what type of kitchen you come up with will be the shape of the room itself. In the next section, we will explore some kitchen-shape considerations.

The Bedroom Every Bachelor Should Have

Let's face the facts ' every man wants to have a woman-trap for a bedroom. A bachelor pad should be a statement of masculinity as well as a trap for women. How can a single man bring out the most in his bedroom so that he feels comfortable in it all the time and also has a place where he can bring any lady friends he meets along the way? He should start by picking out the perfect design among the many headboards on the market. One major consideration would be leather headboards, since leather has a very elegant but masculine appeal to it.

The rest of the bedroom can be designed around the headboard d?r, creating a theme. This shouldn't be difficult for most men, since they have more basic style needs and preferences than women. For example, a man knows right away if he likes contemporary style because he can identify the simplicity of his taste. If he likes intricate and imposing design, he'll go for a classical look. Often, men like rustic or western d?r, and a wrought iron and wood bed may be a great addition to the bedroom to bring out such a style. It's really easy to create this type of design, especially after choosing a headboard with a rustic look or the correctly carved pattern to make it appear western in style.

The master bedroom furniture may be the largest element in the room but is by far not the most important in creating a bachelor's bedroom. Often, it's the small things that really make it appealing to both the tenant and the visitor. Having personal items in the room, like photos and frames or little knick knacks here and there make it feel lived in and comfortable. Without these little touches, the room will just feel like an impersonal space, similar to a hotel room. Even wall hangings of prints that are chosen randomly can be a key to personality and can add flavor to a simple and empty bedroom. A few throw pillows or an area rug can easily impart character to an empty space and make it feel more inviting for both home owner and guest.

A final consideration is the size of the bed. Many times, it may not seem important to a single person to upsize, and they may stick with a small twin or full sized bed for simplicity's sake. Still, if today's bachelor wants to impress or intends to invite a woman up for a nightcap and perhaps a little something more, king-sized furniture may be more appropriate. King wood beds tend to seem the most masculine and may be the first choice of many bachelors looking to outfit the perfect bedroom for their needs. A bachelor is lucky to be able to design his own space without the requirements of a wife or girlfriend being taken into account. He has complete freedom of choice, and he should take advantage of the opportunity to build out the perfect bachelor's bedroom while he has the chance.

How to generate ideas for your bedroom design?

Dear friends,

So, you want to design your bedroom. Hmm... looks like you areserious about it.

Lets' get started quickly. whenever I hear someone say he/shewants to design/decorate a bedroom a lot of things come to mymind.

But, let me clear one thing, design and decorating are twodifferent aspects. When I say design, I mean a whole lot biggerperspective. Design includes a lot more maturity in terms of howyou perceive a space from within.

Of course I will cover more about design in some other article.Decoration is more close to everyday actions that can be takenin order to change or alter a space. Decoration deals withaccessories used in a space. Very small things, such as curtainrods, their color, lampshades, small statues, table cloths,light fittings, are all parts of the detailing.

It is not that design does not deal with these aspects, butdecoration is more do-able easily than the whole design process.

If you are not aware of the decoration techniques, or where tostart, I will give you a list of some place where you canobserve and get inspiration.

1)Of course, the World Wide Web: this Internet is a good placeto start. But the information on the internet is not alwayscompiled and sorted out, the way you want it to be, so you mighthave to look deep.

2)Local Book stores: Interior design magazines, books, brochuresfrom furniture manufacturers is a good source of inspiration.These books and magazines do their best to find out Works ofsuccessful designers, which can be quite inspiring.

3)Exhibitions: Exhibitions held by manufacturers of interiordesign products, can be a good source as well.

4)Movies and TV shows: Yes, these have a very high projectbudgets, so spend thousands of dollars every year to decoratethe sets. Just keep your eyes open and you will definitely findsome good themes in these too. 5)Look for hobby groups around inyour city, look for seminars of those who are successfulartists. Bedroom decoration includes detailing and payingattention to small things. Visit art galleries, where you canfind some good paintings, other related artwork, which canenhance the beauty of your space.

Finally I would like to say that it's your room and you are theonly person who knows better about your likes and dislikes. So start out immediately because "When There Is Will, There Is AWay".

A Guide To Master Bedroom Remodeling

One of the most pleasing decorating makeovers you can carry out is that of remodeling the master bedroom because this is a room where people spend a great deal of their lives but it can easily be more than just a place to sleep. When the bedroom is a good size it provides more versatility to enjoy it in other ways a place to relax in during the day or evening and not just at night. In Europe of course, in particular, France and Italy, the master bedroom has always had a more sensual feel it.

The main aspect of change if you remodel your master bedroom in to a more sensual place is the color scheme and you can achieve this by using shades of red, cream and peach. Of course to improve upon this and enhance the atmosphere further you will need the subtle use of mirrors and candles along with some beautiful tropical plants; I am sure you can see the appeal to this already. Although there are people that like to read in their master bedroom whether it is on the bed itself or in a relaxing chair this is not a new idea as it has been practiced for centuries when people spent more time in their bedroom.

Be sure to provide enough light for reading, which can be done without having to flood the room with harsh reading lights by placing softer lighting throughout the room. The colors used when you create this type of bedroom are paramount for it to work well, so use shades of antique amber or slate blue for example. If you are trying to achieve a sanctuary effect when remodeling the master bedroom, then soft pillows, luxurious throws, landscape paintings and mirrors will promote private reflection.

If you add the comfortable chair and a standing lamp then you will have a retreat that also doubles as a reading room. When remodeling a master bedroom this way, i.e. designed to create a place where you retreat from the world and unwind, it should provide feeling of total privacy which can be improved by displaying photos of friends, family, and places you love. To create a room where you will feel relaxed and have a good nights sleep then you will need to use darker shades of brown and blue, natural woodland and forest colors also work well.

Summary

Where space is not a problem then by placing a small television or writing desk, it can make the master bedroom feel like a place that you can completely retire to. If you are going this far then why not add a mini fridge and drink making facility which could turn your bedroom into a the equivalent of a personally designed hotel suite. Unlike other rooms in your home, remodeling the master bedroom can be allowed a great deal of flexibility; however, beware you don't go too far and find that once in there you don't have much of a reason to leave it.

Top five home renovating tips

With rising interest rates and the jump in housing prices, it's not looking like an ideal time to move house by anyone's standards. But tht doesn't meant that you can't live somewhere new — it's just a matter of improving your current address until it feels like a different house.
Yes, we're talking renovating. Anything from slapping on some new tiles in the bathroom, to a second-floor extension.

Of course, there are good renovations, there are bad renovations and there is just plain over-capitalisation (putting way too much cash into the wrong kind of 'improvements' on a property that just won't net you any return).

But how do you tell the difference?

We asked Rose-Marie Hillier, Interior Design Editor of House & Garden magazine, and Alex May, author of Planning Your Perfect Home Renovation (Allen & Unwin, $26.95) for their expert advice.

First up, the best places to put your money.

Are kitchen and bathroom renovations still top of the list for adding value to your home?

Alex May: "No! While it's true that potential buyers judge the quality of a house by the kitchen and bathroom, it doesn't necessarily mean you will renovate those rooms and see a return. Plenty of buyers will pay the same amount of money for a house with no renovations to the kitchen and bathroom with the idea of renovating to their own tastes."

Rose-Marie Hillier: "I think people look at bathrooms more than kitchens these days. It's important to do it properly, however. Don't make them too cutting-edge or gimmicky. Substituting inferior finishes is also a mistake."

Okay then, if it's not automatically the kitchen and bathroom, what should I be looking at renovating to impress buyers?

RH: "It's important to look at trends in home use and plan accordingly. For me, a quality renovated home now would have a flexible space — a room that will complement any potential owner's lifestyle. For instance, a media room, home office, guest room, teenager's retreat, a deck, a parents' retreat, an indoor/outdoor connection and a quality kitchen and bathroom.

AM: "Property markets are highly segmented according to suburb, city and the style of property. The trick is to research which renovations work well in your local area. In leafy garden suburbs, an open-plan family room with bi-fold doors to a deck will be in demand. In the inner city, it might be off-street parking. In general, light, airy renovations work. Don't slavishly follow new trends — plenty of agents are reporting that the minimalist, warehouse white kitchens that were so big five years ago have lost their appeal in the market."

What can I do to improve a place quickly?

AM: "Paint, paint and more paint. But only bother if you prepare well. And wash the exterior of the house — it makes it look like new."

RH: "Reorganising the furniture and changing the light fittings can make a huge difference."

Top five tips for improving your home


Let there be light
Whether you exchange windows for French doors (subject to council approval) or add skylights, light is vital in a welcoming home.


Keep it simple
There's no need to utilise every trend and tricky finish available.


Call in the experts
Paint colours can be difficult to get right. Colour consultants are available to help and can give your home the kind of fresh, new look that may have you falling in love with it all over again. Companies such as Wattyl (www.wattyl.com.au) and Dulux (www.dulux.com.au) can help you find a consultant.


Do it right
Don't assume that a cheap job won't show. "Go for quality fixtures and fittings in bathrooms and kitchens. If your budget won't stretch, then stick to the mid-range — never choose the cheapest taps, benches or handles," says Alex.


Plan twice, renovate once
Jumping in to a renovation is a mistake. "People spend money replacing things they abhor (like the daggy old laundry) rather than rooms that will really improve the value of the house," says Alex. "Failing to plan and work out what you really want also means you tend to overspend."

See www.renovationplanning.com.au for more advice from Alex May.

DIY renovating tips (part 3)

4. Layout and Sketch
Get good drawings done.
The more detailed the drawing the easier it will be to build. Consider drawing up a rough sketch yourself to show an architect or builder. If you don't use an architect and your renovation is sizable, consider using a draftsperson to draw up plans.

Avoid small boxy rooms.

Open plan design costs less than a series of rooms, creates a sense of space, and is better for ventilation.

Changing the configuration costs money

Keep as much of the original configuration of your house because changing it usually means new plumbing, electrics and possibly alteration to wall construction, windows and doors. Sometimes it's possible to swap the kitchen and bathroom around with out much cost because the plumbing is not radically changed.

5. Architects and plans
Consider an architect

If your renovation is major, use an architect, and one that is experienced with the style and level of renovation you desire.

View images or their previous work.

Talk to their previous clients.

Suss them out. Can you form a constructive, working relationship with them? While they are the expert, you are the user. Will they be too precious about changes to their proposals.

Make sure you can read plans.

6. Budget and Resale
How much to spend?

How much to spend depends on how long you want to keep the house. No point in spending a huge amount if you are going to sell it within a couple of years.
Set an affordable budget. If on a restrictive budget, spend the money where the water is ie kitchen and bathroom.

Allow 10% for contingencies.

The simpler the house the less expensive.

Every corner in walls and roofs cost more money, likewise every door and window.
Custom made, name brands or imported items will costs a lot more than local off the shelf

Don't compare costs too much
Costs increase each year- what your friends paid 2 years ago is unfortunately no longer relevant .

Break down costs
Break down costs, right to the fitting and fixtures- so you know where the money is going.

7. Legals
Check your contract

Understand every aspect of the building contract.

Consider having a penalty clause for late work

Consider having a clause on how to deal with disputes (via independent arbitration)

Check the schedule of payments. A builder cannot charge more than what is in the contract (unless you agree.)

Consider having a solicitor check out the building contract.

All works approved by council will be inspected by the 'Certifying aurthority' (council or a private certifier) - inspections are paid for by the property owner at the council application stage and are manditory at various stages during constrcution but if you feel you need the opinion of a professional during these regular inspection you can engage a private certifier/inspector for reasurance

Don't sign a contract until plans and specifications have been completed (and if applicable, approved).

Holding back payments

Make sure there are holdbacks in the contract and ensure the last builders payment is a large amount and not paid till all work is complete otherwise it is difficult to get the builder back to finish off those last little items. Include a hold back in the payment to builder or critical trades where the quality of the work is not 100% immediately evident and especially trades that are associated with water entry ( eg tiling, roofing, windows).

Incomplete work, incorrect or substandard work

Don't pay for a building stage unless it is complete.
If you believe work is sub standard, discuss it immediately with the builder or contractor. If no action is forthcoming, maybe get a 2nd opinion, take photographs, send the contractor a registered letter advising him of the complaint and contact the relevant building regulation authority.
Council Permits and Caveats
• Council permits

You will require a permit if you change the footprint of the house, change the position of exterior windows and doors, make structural changes, or alter the roof line. Permits are also required if you change the plumbing diagram or you are altering load bearing walls. However if you move the plumbing slightly within a room, a permit can be avoided if no extra toilets are required. (Often a kitchen and bathroom can be swapped around with minimal change to the plumbing diagram.)

• Caveats

If your house is old or was part of an estate check with your solicitor on caveats that might prevent you from expanding your existing structure.

Insurance
Any building work worth more than $12,000 requires home warranty insurance.
Home Warranty protects the owner (either the original or subsequent owners) against
Non completion of the building contract due to death, disappearance or insolvency of the builder, and failure of the builder to correct faults, (which are deemed by law to be the builder's responsibility for a nominated warranty period.)

Construction and Public Liability Insurance is a must for owner-builders.

DIY, Builders and Trades
DIY, or use a Builder?
Do you have the time, skill and inclination for DIY or DIWT (Do It With Trades). If not, get a builder.

Selecting a builder and tradesperson
This can be a difficult task because many tradespeople, perhaps because their skills are in high demand, do not see the need to act professionally (for example: by calling you when they are running late). They often operate on their own time and many have absolutely no awareness of neighbours and the environment (and will often leave their mess for you to clean up). Some will get upset if you criticize their work, rather than try to correct their mistake or explain why they have done the work a certain way. So... given that there are professional tradespeople out there, and that you do have some choice:

Check references. If a tradesperson doesn't want to give you a reference, don't use him or her. Either they are no good or too precious. When checking previous work, ask the previous client:

were they happy with the work?

was it on time and on budget?

did the contractor clean up?

did the contractor accept suggestions or criticism?

Don't necessarily take the lowest bid from a builder or contractor. If a quote is well below the others it could mean the contractor is cutting corners.

Always have a 2nd choice for contractors.

Make tradespeople contact you if they cannot turn up. If they don't, fire them and use your 2nd choice.

Establish ground rules if necessary on smoking, music and rubbish (e.g., who cleans up and where rubbish will be stacked).

If your tradesperson is working on an hourly basis, ask them if they come with an apprentice, because you will have to pay for them too.

Working hours

Be clear on timelines - for when and how long they will be working.
Be clear on their daily working hours and start time which must never be before 7 am (unless you live far away and have NO neighbours)

Keep communication going

Be clear with your builder about the lines of communication with him and their trades people. Advise them of the level of information that you require regarding what is happening

Specify position of underground services as written on original plumbing and electrical diagrams

Find out if the driveway will be kept clear, and when the power and water will be off?

Organization

Keep records

Keep an expandable folder with individual folders inside for each category of work
Log decisions from phone calls and meetings.

Take photographs, especially of plumbing while it is exposed
Scheduling

If DIY or DIWT, work out the building schedule ie the order of which all building is done and check it with the tradespeople.

Make sure your materials and fittings are requested in time for the trade that needs them, but early otherwise they may take up room and slow down work. Or if they are laying around too long, they might just, wel... disappear (ie get stolen.)

Ensure the order of trades is correct and that they complete their work at the agreed time (ie in time for the next trade).

Understand the building process or the trade by observing and reading up on their particular work.

Try to stick with first choices- changes cost time and money
Inspections

Set up building inspection at the correct time for architects and council inspectors (eg Council Plumbing Inspectors for basic and final plumbing.)

Electrical

Think very carefully about furniture layout so outlets they are conveniently placed yet hidden as much as possible.

Mark the positions for the electricity outlets and media jacks on the wall.
If the house is 60 years old insurance companies may require rewiring.

Painting


Hire a colour consultant if you are not competent at selecting harmonious colours
Make sure the surface (especially timber and render) is well prepared.
Use premium paints and ensure that correct paints are used for exterior, weather affected areas.

Save some paint for touch ups.
Flooring

Make sure the structure is strong and stable enough for a new floor, especially if laying over on old one. You may have to restump (adding galvanized white ant protectors).

Windows

Avoid natural or white aluminium windows. They make the house look cheap and signal no style.

Retain door and window position where possible: It saves money and may avoid getting a council permit.

Consider cleaning: Some windows have removable sections for access for cleaning the outside. A narrow balcony under windows can provide access for cleaning.


Roof
• Does it just need a clean?

If the roof is sound, cleaning it with hi pressure water spray or repainting may be all that's needed.

• Do you have sufficient ventilation and heat dispersal?

For flat roofs with little space for insulation, consider a double roof with a layer of air in between. For gabled roofs, insulation plus a rotating air vent is very effective.

• Use anti leaf fouling guttering when building amongst trees.

Safety
Don't go up on wet roofs.
Control children on a building site.
Use eye, ear and face protection when necessary.
Don't use unfamiliar power tools.
Renovating can be an extremely satisfying undertaking - you get to appreciate and be proud of your own effort and creative decisions. However the renovation, be it DIY or by an experienced builder, will usually not go completely smoothly. There is likely to be some unexpected difficulty that will frustrate the daylights out of you. But you will eventually deal with it and move on, to the next step. That's the nature of renovation.

DIY renovating tips (part 2)

3. Design and Style

Keep renovations in character

Consider the architectural integrity of your building. If partially renovating, keep the style similar, or in character with the original house (including the car port and garage.)

Don't be excessively trendy or ambitious.

Fads fade, but a simple elegant style in neutral colours (and subtle patterns) is timeless.

Don't be too ambitious unless you are loaded.

Use colour carefully and thoughtfully.

Collect samples and play with combinations. Only use three colours in a room, two if the room is small.

Light colours will not go out of fashion (or fancy) as fast as strong colours. If you want to use a strong colour, use it in small areas, as punctuation, so if necessary it can be easily changed.

Period and older style homes are hard to cost control
Best get a fixed price from a builder.

Think how you can maximize space or the sense of space.

No matter how much space you have, you are likely to want more. Prioritize your space requirements for each room.

The less corners, lines and intersecting surfaces, the greater the visual flow and the more pleasing and less expensive it will be.

Try and keep as much of the floor visible by raising cupboards off it.

Give great consideration to the front exterior.

The exterior presents the first statement about you and your home.

Put your money in the right places

Put your money firstly where the water is (kitchen and bathroom), then living and master bedroom.

Higher ceiling looks better.

Higher ceilings will cost a little more you will recoup that in resale value. Paint them the lightest colour possible so they look even higher.

Consider the resale value of the property after building.

Don't over capitalize ie spend more money that you will get back when you sell. Make sure the total value of your house plus new building is not greater than the value of the smartest house in the street.

Only renovate if the basic structure is sound.

If you have to repair the basic structure it is likely that your project will be too expensive and you will overcapitalize. Either reduce your plans significantly or sell and build a bigger house elsewhere.

Consider your future requirements.

Think how your proposals will fit into your present and future lifestyle . Will everybody be able to negotiate stairs? Will you need more car space later? Will extra rooms be required for children?

Consider ventilation and air flow.
Open living spaces are cooler than boxy rooms. If possible try and design the floor plan so that you can see right through the house, from one end to the other.

Try to stick with first choices
Any changes you make during the building process will cost you more money.

DIY renovating tips (part 1)

Renovating your house can be a personally and financially rewarding undertaking however is often fraught with frustration and stress. Depending on your time, skill, inclination and budget you may like to DIY. Most DIY renovators are actually DIWT (Do It With Trades). They manage the job, do the demolition, select the colour scheme, source fixtures and fittings, remove and install simple fittings and other simple jobs. However, unless they are really skilled they contract the specialist trades of bricklaying, carpentry, electrics, plumbing and tiling. The following are some general tips that may help to make the process a little easier for you.

Note: Before you get too enthusiastic we recommend you read our Overcapitilising with renovations article.

1. Preparation
Move out of home unless it is a very small job. The renovation will be dirty, dusty noisy. The power and water will go off and when it doesn't you'll have tradesman scrutinizing your breakfast and observing your bathroom habits.

Keep neighbours on your side. This is an impossible task but do what you can by informing them of noise and inconvenience. To pacify them, consider giving them gifts at appropriate times (like earplugs, champagne and a night in a hotel.) If they get really stroppy, just tell them how your renovation will increase their property value.

2. Research
Find out all you can about everything
Troll the internet for advice and researching materials, appliances and fittings. Print out pictures of appliances so you can see how they look. Study home magazines.
Start a neat file of fittings, appliances and design examples that you like.
Draw up a wish list.
Get the household together and discuss the building. Together draw up a wish list in order of preference.
Get advice. Ask architects or builders to look at your site and sketch to give you a ballpark estimate.

Top Ten Budget Renovations - Adding Value To Your Home

Many of us are staying in our homes longer and plan on some level of renovation this year. I have listed my top ten fixes to add value to your home on a budget.

1- Paint, Paint, Paint! - I cannot stress enough the changes you can make in your home with a can of paint. It is the easiest and most cost efficient way to refresh old and worn surfaces on a budget. Paint your interior as well as your exterior for a new and updated look. Interior painting can include your cabinetry, walls, trim, furniture, etc. Exterior painting can include your trim, siding, stucco, brick, shutters, foundation, etc. Start painting!

2- Change Your Doors! - Changing your front and back doors can do wonders for the overall style and look for your home. You can find closeout doors at home centers, salvage yards, antique stores, flea markets, etc. Find a door that matches your home style and discard old and worn doors that date your exterior.

3- Lighting Matters! - Updating light fixtures inside and out can change the overall appearance to your home. You can find lower priced fixtures at home centers, lighting stores (they have clearances each year), Craigslist and don't forget stores like Ikea. There are also a lot of stores online with closeout lighting (Smart Bargains, etc.). Just look around and you can find a light fixture that fits your needs at a great price.

4- Deck or Patio Redo! - Nothing hurts the look of a home worse than a lack luster entertainment area. Restain your deck, use concrete stain for the patio or make a new area from salvaged bricks or stones. Salvage yards have brick and outdoor materials from buildings that have been demolished. Antique bricks are sometimes easy to find here!

5- Remodel Bathrooms! - One of the top renovations for home resales are bathrooms. Keep the colors neutral for long term style and redo what is only in your budget. Change out cabinets for pedestals if you need to make your room look larger. Repaint or stain cabinetry and change out the hardware. New plumbing fixtures can also be found on a budget in closeout centers. Learn to do tile installation yourself with free classes at the home centers. Each change you make will bring you closer to a new bath.

6- Update Kitchen! - This can be an expensive proposition so do what you can toward updating the kitchen. Changing hardware and just cleaning the cabinetry with special products can make the overall appearance more updated. If new cabinetry is not in the budget, then think paint or stain for your old cabinets. Purchase new appliances when possible and keep a look out for dented or slightly used ones at clearance centers. You can save a bundle.

7- Flooring Updates Too! - Update your flooring to hardwood wherever you can and use prefinished for affordability and ease of installation. Engage a friend for help with installation or this may be one place you need to hire a professional. If sticking with carpet, then look for remnants with any carpet company.

8- Improve Systems! - Changes that are aesthetically pleasing or help your home with efficiency are worth the trouble. You can update heating, electrical and plumbing whenever it is within your budget and improve your efficiency rating. This is where you will need help from a professional. They can make changes within a few days.

9- Landscaping! - The overgrown shrubs and trees at the front of your home make it dark and outdated. Most homeowners like a more clean and fresh look with little maintenance. Buy new plants at the end of the season or when they are on sale. You can stay within budget by doing a few at a time and the new look will be amazing.

10- Clean and Cleaner! - The cleaner your home and property looks, the more value it retains. Keep your property and façade clean and fresh and add new flowers in a few pots for color. A well maintained home is a good value!

Ideas for Major Kitchen Remodeling Projects

Ideas for Major Kitchen Remodeling Projects

Are you tired of your outdated kitchen? Frustrated by a poor layout, aging appliances and a lack of modern conveniences? If you are, it may be time to consider some ideas for major kitchen remodeling projects. A kitchen remodel can increase the value of your home, but major kitchen remodeling projects are both expensive and time consuming, so think carefully about ideas for major kitchen remodeling projects before you begin your remodel.

1. Finding Ideas for Major Kitchen Remodeling Projects
Where can you look for ideas for kitchen remodeling? You have a lot of choices, and simply looking around is the best place to start when you are planning kitchen remodeling projects. You may want to visit home improvement centers or kitchen design specialists early on in the planning process. Even if every model kitchen is not right for your space, you may see things you like about each. There are also many publications and websites devoted to kitchen remodeling. You may even find web possibilities that allow you to input specifics and design your dream kitchen online. This can be a good way to work out ideas for kitchen remodeling.

All of these can help you get ideas for kitchen remodeling. You may also have ideas based on your own needs. Perhaps you need more counter space or need to modernize a very outdated kitchen. You might even be changing or altering your home's floor plan to integrate a more open kitchen. You may even want to start a file of ideas for kitchen remodeling when you begin to consider planning a kitchen remodel, with notes of what you like and do not like about each kitchen design possibility. 2. Starting a Kitchen Remodeling Project
How do you begin the process of remodeling your kitchen? First, you need to determine exactly what you want done in your kitchen. Do you need new countertops, floors, appliances or cabinetry? Are you going to change the fundamental layout of your kitchen, or simply improve what is there? You may want to start by dreaming big, then adjusting as your budget allows. Consider prioritizing your goals, so you can choose what is most important to you in your kitchen remodeling plans.

Once you have some idea of what you need to do, after consider your ideas for kitchen remodeling, you will need to assess the available funds. Minor kitchen remodeling projects may be do it yourself options that can be done on a reasonable budget, but you may well need to consider a home improvement loan for a major kitchen remodeling project. You may want to consider consulting a kitchen design studio, home improvement center or contractor for estimates at this point. In many cases, you will find that you may need to downgrade your kitchen improvement plans to meet your budget.

You will have many decisions to make as you begin considering remodeling your kitchen, ranging from flooring and appliances to counters and finishes. Your kitchen should fit in with the style of your home, your lifestyle, and even whether or not you particularly enjoy cooking. Do integrate items that you know you will use into your new kitchen, whether that is a wine cooler or space for the kids to have an afternoon snack.

3. Planning Your Kitchen Remodel
You have several options when planning your kitchen remodeling project. You may want to talk to several contractors and designers before choosing the one that is right for your kitchen design needs. You can use a professional kitchen designer, and some retail outlets even offer free kitchen design services if you purchase your cabinetry and appliances through them. Some contractors, particularly those specializing in kitchen remodeling may also offer kitchen design services. Even if you have a good idea of what you want in your kitchen, a professional may have some helpful design ideas that you had not considered.

If you are planning a smaller kitchen remodeling project, you may plan to do it yourself. In that case, be certain that you have all the necessary skills, and carefully consider what aspects of the project for which you might need professional assistance. Plumbing, electrical and carpentry work may well require professional assistance. On the other hand, if you are fairly handy around the house, refinishing cabinetry, adding a ready to assemble island, or tiling a backsplash can all change a kitchen quite a lot with just a reasonable budget and a few weekends worth of your time. Some small kitchen remodeling projects can be done by your average homeowner, but many cannot, and you should consider this when planning your kitchen remodel or looking at ideas for kitchen remodeling.

4. Total Kitchen Renovation
Many people with older homes may find themselves considering totally remodeling their kitchens. A total kitchen remodeling project will often involve replacing all of the cabinets, appliances, and flooring. In an older home, it might also include modernizing wiring or plumbing. Some people may also want to open the kitchen up to other rooms of the home to modernize the layout. Be certain that you choose a good and reputable contractor if planning this sort of kitchen remodeling project.

Ideas for kitchen remodeling projects of this scope are often easy to find. You may well be able to create your dream kitchen. You should also consider what aspects, if any, of your current kitchen you may want to keep. Beautiful cabinetry should be kept and preserved, or original floors refinished in an older home. While no one wants that dark and dated 1970's kitchen, if you live in a much older home, consider trying to retain the character of your home and kitchen while planning your kitchen remodeling projects.

Expect a total kitchen remodeling project to take quite some time, often as much as several months. It will be costly, and in many cases quite inconvenient. You may even want to spend some time away from home while the work is being done to reduce the stress of the remodeling project.

5. A Major Kitchen Remodel
Major kitchen remodeling projects are not so different than a total remodel. You may well be replacing cabinets, flooring and appliances; however, you may not be changing the basic structure of your kitchen in a fundamental way. As with a total kitchen remodeling project you will need a good contractor, and may need the services of a kitchen designer.

Ideas for kitchen remodeling of this scope include replacing cabinetry, adding a custom island, bringing in new appliances or flooring or having your kitchen cabinets refaced. Refacing your kitchen cabinets is one great way to change the look of your kitchen and keep your budget intact. If you have a well laid out kitchen and good quality cabinetry, consider investigating this option when planning your kitchen remodeling projects. Opting to reface rather than replace your cabinets may allow you to upgrade other appliances or countertops.

While a major kitchen remodeling project will not render your kitchen unusable for as long as a total kitchen renovation, you should still be prepared to use a microwave and crockpot, and eat quite a lot of takeout for the time that the kitchen is undergoing remodeling.

6. Smaller Kitchen Remodeling Projects
A variety of smaller kitchen remodeling projects can change your kitchen in big ways. These smaller projects are often quite affordable and can be done by many homeowners on their own. What are some ideas for kitchen remodeling projects you can do yourself?

Paint can dramatically change your kitchen, and is a very doable and affordable change. Whether you paint just the walls or opt to prime and paint your cabinets, this option is one of the best ways to remodel your kitchen on a tight budget. Many types of flooring, including some laminate possibilities and tiles of various sorts can be done by a handy homeowner. If your flooring is dated and worn, this can be another kitchen remodeling project you may want to consider. Tiled backsplashes are also a popular choice when you want to add color and style to your kitchen without a big investment.

Countertops, while not a major remodeling project, may well require the assistance of a professional installation service. Many stores offer installation if you purchase appliances from them, so a new stove or dishwasher may be a remodeling project that is easier than you might expect.



7. Tips and Tricks to Survive Remodeling Your Kitchen
Remodeling your kitchen can be stressful. While there are many magazines offering ideas for kitchen remodeling, often no one tells you how to survive the remodeling process. First, expect that one member of the family will need to be in close, regular contact with your contractor about how the work is progressing and what remains to be done. This will help your kitchen remodeling project stay on task and on budget.

Daily life will also be substantially impacted by your kitchen remodeling project. Obviously, during much of the process, your kitchen will be unavailable for daily use. You may need to designate an area as a substitute kitchen. A buffet in the dining room may work well, if equipped with a microwave, toaster, coffee pot and other necessities. You may find that it is easier to use paper plates and cups to avoid having to wash dishes in the bathroom. In some cases, you may even want to move into a suite-type hotel for a few weeks, during the worst of the kitchen remodeling to avoid living with dust and risking the children getting underfoot.


8. How to Choose a Contractor for Your Kitchen Remodel
Choosing a contractor for your kitchen remodeling project can be one of the most challenging aspects of this whole process. Needless to say, it is critical that you hire a reputable contractor. Be clear with the contractor about your budget, timeline and needs.

If you know friends who have recently remodeled their kitchens, talk with them about who they used. If you know skilled trades people, such as home builders, they may have suggestions as well. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to locate reputable business people.

You might also consider using the installations services available through your local home improvement center for your new cabinetry, flooring and appliances; however, this may require you take an active role in organizing your kitchen remodeling project. Kitchen design centers can also offer recommendations for good contractors in your area. Keep the specifics of your kitchen remodeling project in mind when choosing a contractor for the project. If you are changing the structural layout of your home, an expert in that may be best, whereas custom cabinetry requires different skills.

9. The Benefits of Remodeling Your Kitchen
Remodeling your kitchen can improve the overall value of your home. While many home improvement projects will net you a minimal change in the value of your home, modern kitchens are critical to most home buyers today. An investment in a kitchen remodeling project is generally a smart one. If you do expect to sell your home, choose neutral colors and high quality materials when planning your kitchen remodeling project.

A remodeled kitchen, particularly if you make smart choices during the design process, is a center of your home. It is a lovely space in which to live with your family or entertain guests. A well designed kitchen includes ample storage and workspace, and may even integrate space for a home computer, television and other needs. Remodeling your kitchen may also allow you to choose and install more energy efficient appliances, thus saving you money in utility costs over time.

As you look at ideas for kitchen remodeling, think carefully about how you use your kitchen, and your long term plans for your home, whether you expect to stay in this home or move in a few years. Design a kitchen that appeals to you and a possible future buyer for the best return on your kitchen remodeling investment. While remodeling your kitchen is certainly challenging and stressful, this is one of the most rewarding of all remodeling projects, both in terms of daily use and home value.

Ideas for Minor Kitchen Remodeling (part 2 )

5. Space Saving Tips for Minor Kitchen Remodeling
Another area that you might want to consider for your ideas for minor kitchen remodeling is space saving. Many people embark on minor kitchen remodeling because they need more room, especially in small kitchens. Many kitchens were built simply to cook food, and many people want to use their kitchens for much more. Often, you cannot expand your kitchen but you can do things in it to save space.

Installing a bar type seating area is often a great space saving minor kitchen remodeling project. You can sit up to eat at the bar, instead of having a big and bulky kitchen table. Another great space saving project is putting a kitchen island in, which doubles as a work space and an eating area. This can eliminate the need for a table and give you more space to work with at the same time. Therefore, it is a very popular kitchen remodeling project.

Another space saving minor kitchen remodeling project might include installing a pot-and-pan storage device to hang from your ceiling. This can be a great way to save on space, and also to create a unique look for your kitchen. It can also help you open up more storage.

6. Creating Storage With Minor Kitchen Remodeling
Storage is a major problem in many kitchens, which is why creating storage is often the goal of minor kitchen remodeling projects. Creating storage can be quite difficult, but it can be done. Projects that you can do to create storage include installing deeper cabinets, which will hold more, or installing more cabinets. A great kitchen remodeling project that creates storage is to install floor to ceiling cabinets along one wall of your kitchen. You can give these cabinets a fresh and unique look, and use them to store just about everything that you need to store in your kitchen.

Many times, ideas for minor kitchen remodeling projects might revolve around rearranging the areas that you have in order to create more storage. You might replace your kitchen table with a kitchen island, which has storage compartments all along the bottom. You might also install storage where there was none before - such as under counters or above the sink.

Storage projects can also help the overall look of your kitchen. For instance, if you install brand new cupboards that are deeper, you can also get lighter colored cupboards that will brighten up your entire kitchen. The same technique can be used with a kitchen island, because it will often be brightly colored.

7. Lighting and Minor Kitchen Remodeling
The lighting that you have in your kitchen is often one of the biggest things to think about when you are getting ideas for minor kitchen remodeling. Many people update their lighting during minor kitchen remodeling projects, because this is the best way for them to lighten and brighten their kitchens.

If you are looking to do so with your own project, a good thing to consider is a brand new light fixture, or new sconces that you can put on your walls. Remember that it is important to get lighting that is both brightening to your space, but also warm for the kitchen. You want your kitchen to be a well lit and bright place, but also one that is warm so that your family will like to spend time there. There are many fixtures that you can get that will help you do both of these things at once.

8. Flooring and Minor Kitchen Remodeling
Many people choose to do minor kitchen remodeling projects that revolve around flooring. If your floor is dingy and dark, replacing it with something brighter or softer is often the way to go. Also, some older homes have carpet in the kitchen, and replacing the carpet with tile or wood is one of many ideas for minor kitchen remodeling projects. However, these types of projects can often turn out to be more than you bargained for.

Replacing flooring is often something that people think will be a minor project, but it turns into a major one. Therefore, before you begin your flooring project, you should be ready to complete it, even if it turns into a much larger project. You should also be sure that you know how to install your new flooring, and that you won't end up needing more help.


9. Decorating and Minor Kitchen Remodeling
Sometimes, a minor kitchen remodeling project can be a simple as decorating your kitchen in a different way. It might be that all of your appliances are in good working order and look fine, and that your cupboards and drawers are exactly what you want them to be. However, it might be that your kitchen simply does not look as you would like it to, and that some updating is in order.

There are many decorating projects that you can do when this is the case. Many people like to change the color of the walls in the kitchen. If your kitchen walls are white but you feel that your kitchen looks too sterile, try doing your walls in a grey or tan color instead. This will add more depth to your kitchen and also make it look updated. You might also want to add trim or paint your cabinets. These are all ways to use paint when you get ideas for minor kitchen remodeling projects.

You might also consider simply installing new blinds, or adding rugs and other fixtures in order to import a brand new color scheme for your kitchen. Often, this can be the best way that you have to do kitchen remodeling, especially if you live in a rental home and can't do a full remodeling project. Even something as simple as rearranging the way that your kitchen is set up can be a great small remodeling project that can change the entire look of your kitchen and make it feel brand new and updated. If you feel that you need a new kitchen, but don't have the time or money for a full remodeling project, think about smaller things that you can do to make the kitchen seem like a brand new place.

Ideas for Minor Kitchen Remodeling (part 1 )

There are many different things that you might do to your home to spruce it up or to brighten up the atmosphere. Minor kitchen remodeling projects are projects that you can do quickly and easily, and that will help you create the kitchen of your dreams. Many of these projects can be done in a couple of days, or even over a weekend. A lot of them can also be done without much training. Many minor kitchen remodeling projects are also projects that you have been putting off because you think that they will take more time than they actually will. Therefore, if you have ideas for minor kitchen remodeling projects in mind, it is always a good idea to see if you can get them accomplished. You might be surprised at how much better it can make your kitchen look and feel.


1. Minor Kitchen Remodeling Projects
There are many projects that are considered to be minor kitchen remodeling projects. Most of the time, these projects include replacing or repairing something that just isn't working for you any more. It might not be that you want to create a brand new kitchen - you might simply want to replace the flooring or the lighting, or even replace the window.

Many ideas for minor kitchen remodeling projects include installing a dishwasher or a new set of cupboards to make your life easier or to brighten up the kitchen. A minor remodeling project might also include painting the walls, or hanging a new kitchen light. In short, minor kitchen remodeling projects are projects that take just a couple parts of your kitchen and change them. These projects are usually something that you can handle on your own, in a small amount of time. However, you must be careful because often doing a minor kitchen remodeling project can lead you to more projects that you feel need to be done. Therefore, it is often a good idea to make a list of what needs to be done, and make sure that you stop when you are finished!

2. Do It Yourself Minor Kitchen Remodeling
Do it yourself kitchen remodeling has been around for many years. There are hundreds of books, DVD sets, or television shows that you can check out in order to learn how to do these projects. Do it yourself kitchen remodeling is something that you can also explore by visiting a hardware store or a home supply store. The people who work at these stores are well versed in how to do these projects, and part of their job is to tell customers how to do them as well.

If you are considering do it yourself kitchen remodeling, the best way to go about it is to do research before you start. You need to check out books or look on the Internet to figure out the exact steps you should take to finish the project that you would like to finish. Looking up information and doing research is a very important part of do it yourself kitchen remodeling. Many people believe that they do not need to do research first because the project appears to be so simple. However, if they do not do research, they often end up with parts that are broken, faucets they don't know how to work, and a major mess on their hands. Many times, do it yourself kitchen remodeling projects turn into nightmares because the person has not done their research first and, therefore, does not know what to do. Do your research first, and then you can buy the supplies and have a good idea of the steps that you can take for your project.

3. Minor Kitchen Remodeling Requiring Outside Help
There are some projects that you will need outside help with, no matter how simple they seem. Unless you are an electrician, you are going to want to get outside help if you are doing rewiring projects. Doing rewiring without any electrical knowledge is very dangerous, for yourself and for your home. If you put up a lamp or change the way the outlets work in your home without help, and you do something wrong, you can be at risk for electric shock, or for fire. Both of these things would lead to far more work and money. Therefore, it is always a good idea to seek professional help if you are dealing with lighting.

The other area that you might want to seek professional help in is going to be plumbing. Often, hooking up water and other pipes can get very confusing. One simple mistake with a pipe can cost you thousands of dollars in repairs or damages. It can also lead to many hours of work for you or a professional plumber, and to other problems in your home, which you will then have to deal with. Therefore, plumbing is an area where you might want to seek professional help.

4. Brighten Up Your Kitchen With Small Projects
A kitchen should be a room in your home that is very bright and welcoming. However, many times a kitchen is built onto a home in the darkest or dingiest corner. You have probably seen many tiny kitchens, and you might even have a small kitchen yourself. However, no matter how small your kitchen is, there are always ways to brighten it up.

Many of the ideas for minor kitchen remodeling projects are projects that you can do to brighten up your home. They are projects such as replacing the smaller window over your sink with a much larger one that will help let in light and make the kitchen area seem bigger. They also might be projects such as replacing an old lighting system with a newer and brighter one, or installing different countertops to brighten up your kitchen. Using brighter colors, newer materials, and new appliances can all be ways to make your kitchen more welcoming and brighter.

Add Value to Your Home through Home Remodeling

Nothing adds value to your home more quickly than updating or remodeling your kitchen or bathroom. These two rooms in your home receive daily use and usually suffer wear and tear sooner than any other rooms. An update of fixtures, appliances, and accessories can make an immediate and dramatic difference in either of these rooms. A complete remodel of your bath or kitchen can increase the value of your home immediately and significantly! Kitchen Remodeling ...


Nothing adds value to your home more quickly than updating or remodeling your kitchen or bathroom. These two rooms in your home receive daily use and usually suffer wear and tear sooner than any other rooms. An update of fixtures, appliances, and accessories can make an immediate and dramatic difference in either of these rooms. A complete remodel of your bath or kitchen can increase the value of your home immediately and significantly!

Kitchen Remodeling
If remodeling your kitchen is your next home remodeling project, replacing the cabinets is a great starting point. Beautiful kitchen cabinets are the focal point of a stunning kitchen design. You can choose a formal, casual or contemporary style. Whatever suits your taste and sense of fashion, you can begin by choosing beautiful new kitchen cabinets; then add eye-catching fixtures, appliances and other accessories that will complement and accentuate your new kitchen design. After kitchen cabinets, other great ways to make a big impact on the total kitchen design are to consider adding:

New Appliances
Stainless Steel Sinks
New Counter Tops
New Tiles or Backsplashes
Hardwood or Laminate Flooring
To complete your kitchen remodeling project in style, you can add new furniture such as breakfast nook tables and chairs, island carts, or barstools.

Bathroom Remodeling
Bathroom remodeling is another great way to update your home, which also increases the value of your home tremendously. We shouldn’t minimize the importance of this room in our homes and in our lives. Important time is spent here as our days begin and end, and making this room a relaxing, enjoyable experience is well worth the time and money. Updating your bathroom will certainly bring pleasure not only to you and your family, but also to your guests.

Principal considerations to make your bathroom more efficient and more beautiful include:

Cabinets
Counter Tops and Vanities
Sinks
Flooring and Tile
Tubs and Showers
Claim Your Home Remodeling Expenses on Your Taxes If You Sell Your Home
When, or if, you sell your home, you might be charged capital gains taxes. However, according to IRS Publication 523, Selling Your Home, any major improvements or remodeling you do to your home such as kitchen remodeling or bath remodeling can be exempt from these taxes. This can also include items such as:

Additions including bedrooms, bathrooms, decks, garages, porches or patios.

New plumbing or wiring.
Any new heating and/or air conditioning units.
Interior upgrades such as built-in appliances and wall-to-wall carpeting
Exterior upgrades such as paving the driveway
Any tax-acceptable improvements are identified by the IRS as those that add value to your home and prolong your home’s useful life. It is wise to check with your accountant who knows IRS tax law to make sure any home remodeling you do will be covered. Be sure to keep all receipts on any purchases you make for remodeling purposes.

Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling Products and Services
Some people are fortunate enough to do remodeling projects on their own; others need help in getting the best quality work done. Regardless of the method, there are ways to receive tremendous savings on your products and materials through discount clubs or buying direct from the manufacturer. Research your options to make sure you get the most for your money.

A well-done renovation project will increase the value of your home and, just as important, it will increase the pleasure of the time you, your family, and friends spend there. If you’ve been thinking of updating your kitchen or bathroom, now is the time to explore your options to complete a great home improvement project.

Guide to Remodeling a Kitchen

A kitchen remodel can be an exciting and creative activity for a homeowner; as with every remodel it is advisable to start with a budget in mind and work according to a plan. There is a lot you can do with a kitchen remodel; kitchen cabinets, sinks, exhaust fans, sinks, kitchen islands, curtains, lighting, countertops, backsplash, faucets, furniture, tiles, etc can be replaced or repaired to give a whole new look to your kitchen. You should get an idea of the costs involved in a remodel and then plan the remodel to fit your budget.


Before starting a remodeling project, it is important to obtain a building permit well in advance because municipalities may take time to process the permit application.
Kitchen roofs can be kept a little higher so as to give the kitchen a different feel from the rest of the house and the kitchen can be moved adjacent to the dining area so that service from the kitchen is made easy.


In kitchens, where space is a constraint a remodel offers the opportunity to remove items and accessories that are rarely used and create some space. The kitchen space can be made more appealing visually by varying the height of the countertops and using cabinets of different sizes with different styles of doors. Contrasts can be achieved by using light wood stains for the islands and darker ones for the cabinets. A remodel is also the time to hide unsightly appliances by installing panels that can cover or disguise ovens or refrigerators. Another way to make appliances blend with the surroundings is to install stainless steel appliances; this is because stainless steel reflects the colors of its surroundings and is therefore not very noticeable.
The space to be allocated for counters can be a tricky decision; ideally you should allocate sufficient space for the counters and the counters should have enough width and depth to provide working space as well as space for appliances. The cabinets should be so placed that the contents of the cabinets are accessible from the place in the kitchen where they are likely to be used most often.


Traditional kitchen cabinets come with raised panels and in a range of finishes and wood choices. Contemporary kitchen cabinets offer an uncluttered look with well-defined lines; the building materials include wood, glass, plastic, and other materials. Kitchen sinks are mostly made of stainless steel which is a resilient and inexpensive alternative. Enamel covered cast iron sinks provide a traditional look. Quartz composite and granite-based sinks offer a high shine and are durable.


Kitchen islands can be added to spacious as well as not-so-spacious kitchens; with smaller kitchens, an island provides added countertop space for placing cooking pots and cutlery. Kitchen islands also offer space for a small family to gather, a kitchen island on wheels enables one to move the island around and alter the space settings. While remodeling, one can try to alter the lighting if required so that it illuminates the stove, countertops, cabinets, sink and other work areas.

Trendy House

Trendy House with Unconventional Look
Trendy houses are normally fashionable and stylish living houses. I visited a trendy house with an unconventional look amid eclectic furniture and going to tell you the whole story; our discussion will be based on home interiors. Well it was pleasant surprise to visit a home that is pre-dominantly modern, with hardly a few traditional touches. I got the home best but needs some modifications and alteration. It was Robert, who decorated his house on extremely current and trendy lines.

Entrance should be opened into free style lobby
As soon as one enters the lobby, there is a beveled glass door opening into the drawing room. The wall right in front is not in alignment with the rest of the walls but extends inwards, its beige surface divided into huge squares lending it added character. One learns that the kitchen behind this wall had been extended, leaving the family no choice but to deal with a protruding wall in the drawing room, but they turned the disadvantage into an aesthetic feature.

Glass Shelves
On either end of the extended wall are alcoves that exhibit glass shelves on which decoration pieces are placed.

Room Furniture
The furniture in the room comprises fully upholstered beige sofas, wooden chairs in deco paint, wicker chairs and stool. The center table has a fiber glass base and glass top. Many cushions and decoration pieces and color to the room.

Foyer with a Glass Shelves
In keeping with the contemporary look of the place, the foyer itself is adorned with glass shelves against one wall, held up by curved steel pipes. The foyer opens into the very brightly decorated lounge-cum-dining areas where a sleek glass topped dining table with steel legs occupies a corner. Beyond it is the lounge seating, comprising yellow leatherette sofas placed together in a semi-circular shape.

Adding up Mirrors: Give a space to the whole Room
Atop it, adorning a wall is a mirror lending added space to the room. Against another wall are two mirrors in wooden frames, reminiscent of windows and placed at intervals, lending spaciousness and a unique touch to the room. Wooden tables, stools, a wrought iron tall lamp and a console table behind the sofa all add to the ambience of the area, as does a compact, neat TV unit.

Dining Portion
The dining portion of the lounge stretches to its right into and open American Style Kitchen, which is both functional and attractive, with its ivory counter tops, beige tiles and wooden cabinets.

Couple's son room
The room belonging to the couple's son is decorated predominantly in black and white - with a black leatherette bed along with a black wooden headboard placed at an angle, a funky bookshelf adorning one wall and a guitar-shaped wrought iron CD rack below. The rest of the furnishing in the room are what every boy and girl would desire - a TV-cum-decoration unit, a computer table and a tall white lamp standing behind a kidney-shaped leatherette sofa - which give the room both functionally and appeal.

Couple's daughter's room
Similarly, the couple's daughter's room, done in shades of blue and mint green with a wooden and wrought-iron bed occupying center space boasts elegance and youthful charm

Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling

Kitchens and bathrooms are distinctive rooms that see a lot of routine. Functionally, they serve the same purpose everywhere. It is our personal touches that make them unique, so that their routine does not have to include their decor. If you are tired of the scenery in your kitchen and/or bathroom, maybe it is time for a makeover. Here are a few creative, cost effective ways to make a new style statement.

First, give those walls a new look. Flat walls are too often plain walls. One way to transform a wall is to add depth. This is easily accomplished with a paneled wall treatment. This treatment gives the wall an interesting dimension, with vertical boards two-thirds of the way up the wall. They visually lift the ceiling, which is aesthetically pleasing.

Creative painting can also leave a great impression on a wall. Instead of one or two primary colors, try painting on a decorating theme. For example, paint a colorful tent room which features vertical stripes that climb up the side walls and meet at an angle on the ceiling, cabana style.

However, don’t stop at the ceiling. No more is creative painting just for the wall and the ceiling, but it is making quite a splash on area rugs. Painted-on area rugs are a nice way to change the look in a room. Start this project with a design written out on graph paper, adjusting the dimensions. Before transferring the design, clean the rug and paint it with a base color. The design should be finished with several coats of polyurethane.

The window shade is also a good candidate for creative painting, but if you want to brighten up the window, try a touch of tile. Simply frame your window with a border of 4×4 inch ceramic tile, alternating colors work best. This eye-catching alteration does not take a lot of time or money. Furthermore, it does not have to be a permanent change. Tile adhesive can be used if you want a permanent look, if not, you can Velcro the tiles in place.

Tile still works wonders in the bathroom, regardless of the size of the bath. A simple design can create great impact. To avoid a flat, sterile look, select tiles that vary in color, texture and even size. Tile showrooms are a good place to get a variety of styles and sizes of tiles which are leftover from their inventory and often discounted.

Finally, always remember the little things that say a lot. Look for decorative pieces that can dress up an old area, like a new sink, a glass shelf, a vase made from a Cobalt blue glass bottle, and/or bathroom containers that look like pharmacy canisters.

Your Haven From the Outside World

Simply put, a bedroom is a space in which you can take refuge from the outside world, rest and reinvigorate yourself. It can be a small and functional space, an elaborate suite of rooms, or anything in between. It depends upon the size of two things: your home and your budget.

No matter what the size of your bedroom, it has to serve just one critical purpose. It has to provide you a comfortable place to rest – everything else is just icing on the cake. And resting comfortably, of course, starts with the bed.



Choosing a Bed
Beds come in various sizes and configurations. Larger rooms can hold a Queen or a King sized bed; smaller rooms a single or a full sized bed. You can opt to have just a frame to hold the mattress and box spring, you can choose to have a headboard only, or you can decide to have a headboard and footboard.

Beds can be elaborate and ornate, or simple and practical. Beds are made to fit any design theme you can imagine, so let your creative side emerge when designing your bedroom. But remember, you must budget yourself properly so that you can make the single most important purchase for your comfort: the mattress.


The Importance of the Mattress
The comfort of the bed is all about the mattress. Choosing a mattress is a difficult decision, because there are dozens of brands to choose from, and a confusing array of styles and characteristics. You must pick the appropriate firmness; you must take durability into account; and, of course, you must be aware of the costs involved. The bottom line is, however, that you should be very studious about choosing the right mattress – if you cannot get a good night’s sleep, even the most elaborate bedroom is not achieving its true function.


Closets
Every bedroom, even the smallest, should have a closet. If you are lucky enough to live in a home that is large enough, you might have a walk-in closet with plenty of room for storage. If not, do not despair. Even the smallest closets can be configured to maximize storage space by using one of the many “closet systems” available.


The Proper Bedroom Décor
You can pick any design from Victorian to art deco, but make certain that your choices are calming and restful. All elements of the room should be conducive to a satisfying night's sleep. The master bedroom fulfills its purpose when it is relaxing and inviting, and that includes picking the right colors and/or textures for the walls and the window coverings.


Consider a Master Bath
If your planning a complete remodeling job, including increasing the size of your home, think about adding a master bath. A personal bathroom inside the master bedroom suite will add a great deal of value to your home, as well as provide you with many years of convenience and comfort.


Renovating Your Bedroom: Money Well Spent
Secure in the knowledge that it is absolutely necessary to your mental and physical health to get a satisfying night's sleep, you will not regret spending money modernizing your bedroom. Renovating your bedroom is the type of job in which you might not have to part with a great deal of money to make a big difference.

Top Trends In Bathroom Design

Top Trends to Turn Your Bathroom into an In-home Retreat

(ARA) - Americans find themselves cocooning in their homes and dreaming of a nice, warm, relaxing retreat.
One way to "get away," and at the same time enhance a home's value is to turn the bathroom into an in-home retreat. In fact, making the bathroom a place of retreat is one of today's most popular home remodeling projects, according to Homestore.com, as homeowners look for relief from hectic lifestyles and choose to spend more time at home.

As the country faces tough times, homeowners are focusing their spending on the home to make it a secure, comfortable environment according to a Unity Marketing study.

According to the American Standard Bathroom Habits Survey, Americans revealed that they would spend between $2,500 and $7,500 to remodel and decorate their bathrooms. Thirty percent would be willing to spend more than $10,000 to make their bathroom the ultimate dream bathroom.

"Homeowners want a beautiful, relaxing space they can call their own," says Gary Uhl, director of industrial design for American Standard, the world's leading plumbing products manufacturer and distributor. "To make the bathroom a personal retreat, homeowners are expanding the size of bathrooms and adding whirlpools and more decorative fixtures."

"The bathroom is becoming more of a centerpiece in the home with design trends ranging from the bold and colorful to the simple and elegant," says Jim Krengel, one of the first certified bathroom designers.

Krengel and Uhl suggest homeowners consider the following five trends when turning their bathrooms into a personal, relaxing retreat.


1. Bathroom Size

The number one bathroom design trend among homeowners is making the room larger. Homeowners are knocking out walls to make the current bath more functional and comfortable.

"Today the bath needs to be big enough to accommodate everything homeowners want to include," says Krengel. "Bathroom furniture and a separate shower and bathtub are emerging as hot items in today's bath."


2. Fixtures Add More than Function

Today's homeowner is looking to make the bath more comfortable, stylish and personal by using fixtures with more than one function. One popular trend is the separate shower and bath. A separate bath provides more flexibility in choosing a tub -- whether a free-standing bath or a relaxing whirlpool.

According to the American Standard Bathroom Habits Survey, a majority of Americans choose a whirlpool as the number one item they want in their bath. American Standard's whirlpools have ergonomically correct head and arm rests for maximum comfort and strategically positioned jets to create ultimate relaxation. Their whirlpools come in a variety of sizes including corner pools, such as the Savona Corner Whirlpool, that will fit discretely into the corner of a smaller bathroom.

"Another hot trend in fixtures is above-counter sinks that serve as a sink as well as displayed art," Uhl says.

The Striata and Carnivale above-counter basins by Porcher are great examples. The Striata is a fused-glass basin in jewel tones that turns the bathroom into a showcase. The Carnivale, crafted of brilliant artisan-made glass, blends striking designs with bold colors creating the ultimate fixture.


3. A Recliner in the Bath

Today's bathrooms are equipped with more than just the traditional bath and sink. As homeowners increase the size of their bathrooms, they are experimenting with armoires for storage, music or television and chaise lounges for reading and relaxing.

Vintage furniture is also making a splash in the bathroom. Homeowners are using vintage pieces as vanities or for more decorative purposes such as a towel rack or sitting chairs.

Many manufacturers are creating fixtures that look and feel like furniture. For example, the American Standard Enfield Suite showcases a freestanding tub large enough for two encased in a wood frame.


4. Rocks, Wood, Glass -- What Else?

Combining different materials is another hot design trend. Everything from glass, chrome and china can be found in baths across the country.

"Glass and chrome are popular materials emerging in today's bathroom fixtures," says Uhl. "For instance, decorative glass above-counter basins in bold colors bring art into the bath."

American Standard's Dune Console Lavatory combines a number of materials, including marble, wenge finish wood drawers, chrome frames and a glass shelf to provide artistic flair.

Glass tile is emerging as a favorite material for the bath. Homeowners are designing showers with glass tile in ocean colors to create a warm, relaxing atmosphere. Many homeowners are opting to combine glass and porcelain tiles to create accents or borders that are more affordable.

Believe it or not, stainless steel also is making its way into the bath. Designers are incorporating stainless steel in everything from the sink to the medicine chest to the bathtub to shower walls. The look of stainless steel is fairly cold, so to help soften the look, a natural stone element in the room can add warmth and a contrasting texture.


5. Adding a Little Color to Your Bathroom

Although white is still the most popular fixture color according to Uhl, homeowners are looking for other colors that will remain timeless.

"Adding a little color to a bathroom is as easy as a hand-painted sink or a new paint color to the walls," says Krengel. "Homeowners need to choose a color that suits their personality but also fits the type of environment they are looking for."

The latest color trends are running the gamut. Natural colors are the most versatile, but designers are incorporating some bolder colors such as red and blue as well as deep forest and emerald green and terra cotta and rust. These colors are used in everything from the paint to the sink to decorative tiles.

For homeowners who aren't confident in their design capabilities, Krengel suggests calling on a professional designer. "It's better to get the expert advice ahead of time, instead of after a project has gone horribly wrong."