BUSINESS DIRECTORY
HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
Although cherry wood cabinets are popular, there’s a trend
toward white cabinets. Cherry will give your kitchen a warm
feel, while white cabinets will brighten the space and have a
clean appearance.
As for flooring, natural stone and travertine are extremely
popular right now. After the stone is sealed, it’s an easy-care option
for homeowners and offers a lot of longevity.
It’s not just about the look you want to achieve in your kitchen,
it’s also about the way it makes you, your family and your friends
feel when you’re there.
ADDITION: 1 + 1 = FABULOUS!
Ever feel like your home would be perfect if only it had that one
room that’s missing? Perhaps it’s an extra bedroom for when Mom
comes to visit, or a bathroom downstairs for guests when you’re
entertaining. Maybe you already have a family room, but it just
needs to be a little larger for your needs. If this sounds familiar, a
home addition may be the perfect solution for making life a little
more comfortable.
The great thing about a new room is that you can plan it exactly
the way you want it. If you’re adding a family room or game room,
why not build a fireplace as well? This will quickly make it the most
visited room in your house. If you’re adding a bedroom either for
visiting parents or a returning college student, why not include an
ensuite bath, which will increase your home’s value as well as make
for more enjoyable visits for your guests.
As with any work done in your home, make sure that you do
your homework before contacting any contractors. It’s a good
idea to obtain estimates from three different contractors before
deciding which one to use. It helps to be as specific as possible in
your choices in order to get the most accurate estimates. Use a spec
sheet to ensure that you are giving all three contractors the same
exact information. Using local contractors is another great way to
ensure that you’re getting someone with a good reputation in the
community. A good idea is to attend home shows where you can
actually meet the contractors face to face. It’s easier working with
someone when you have a good rapport.
The most important thing to remember in any home design
project is not to be too focused on the bottom line only. Many
times the lowest price does not result in the best‑quality job. Do
your research to find the best person for your particular project. ■
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