SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT relaxing bath in a soaker tub can make the world go away for a while .
Does all of this sound like a fantasy ? Maybe not . According to designer Mary Laipple , Director of the Kitchen and Bath Design Studio at 84 Lumber , you may be able to make updates to your bath for less than you might expect .
“ If a homeowner is just updating and not moving plumbing , heating ducts and electricity , the makeover can start at around $ 10,000 ,” says Laipple . And the choices for today ’ s bath are incredibly enticing . She notes that many homeowners are opting for larger showers that will not only get you clean , but can also bathe you in LED lighting that changes colors to suit your mood . You can also enjoy your favorite music in the shower to either calm you down after a stressful day , or pep you up for the daily routine .
Vanities and bath cabinetry have also arrived in the 21st century . Vanities are no longer empty-shell cabinets that open to a cavernous interior with little customization . Current options for drawers and cabinets include specialized areas for storing your blow dryer neatly away and stackable storage options for makeup . And while you ’ re standing in front of that vanity applying your makeup , you can watch TV in the mirror ! Technology allows your favorite TV program to be projected onto the mirror , so you can keep up with the latest baseball scores or check the weather before going out .
Slate and marble tile are always elegant options for bathrooms , but one of the trends in baths are porcelain tiles that mimic wood . These tiles come in sizes up to 48 ” and can be laid to look like natural woodgrain , without the worry of water damage . The woodgrain appearance really warms up the bathroom .
And speaking of warm – your toilet can be warm too ! Homeowners can opt for a “ throne ” with a retractable base that comes out and heats your feet as well as the seat of the toilet . And touchless flushing helps prevent the spread of germs among your family , along with a bidet , which ensures a much cleaner experience .
You spend so much time in your bathroom every day you owe it to yourself to make it a more enjoyable place . And , according to HGTV . com , bath remodels often offer a return on investment of more than 100 %!
KITCHEN MAKEOVER
Whether your cooking style is Chicken Cordon Bleu , or just some great Pad Thai takeout from the corner restaurant , you need a place to prepare your meals that ’ s fun , organized and feels like home . Even in today ’ s hectic lifestyle , you ’ ll probably spend a significant amount of time each day in your kitchen .
Though it ’ s a substantial investment to update your kitchen , it ’ s a worthwhile endeavor from both a personal standpoint and a financial one . And , like bathrooms , HGTV . com estimates that a kitchen remodel can offer returns that are upwards of 100 % on the resale of your house .
According to Jamie Varner , owner of Varner Remodeling , most kitchen remodels start around $ 25,000 , and on average will range up to about $ 50,000 .
You can give your kitchen a whole new look in any style from ultra-contemporary to French country in this price range . Your designer and builder can assist you with computer-aided design ( CAD ) to help you envision your dream .
Some trends in the kitchen include spacious farm sinks that offer tons of space for food prep . Clean , white subway tile can match virtually any décor , making it a popular choice for backsplashes . Recycled glass tiles can be found in any color for a look that ’ s great for your kitchen and great for the environment as well . Varner says that mosaic tiles are frequently used and can be laid in customized patterns for a uniquely personal look .
Although cherry wood cabinets are popular , he ’ s seeing an increase in 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 , Varner notes , “ You can ’ t go wrong with natural stone ,” adding that travertine is 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 . ■
22 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE ❘ icmags . com