Special Section : Home & Garden Renovation Guide
bath are incredibly enticing . 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 upgraded in style and functionality . 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 putting your blow dryer neatly away and stackable storage options for all of the essentials . And while you ’ re standing in front of that vanity , 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 latest 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 can really warm 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 can offer a return on investment of more than 100 percent !
Refresh the Hub of Your Home
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 . Regardless of lifestyle , you ’ ll probably spend a significant amount of time each day in your kitchen .
Though it ’ s a substantial investment to update a 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 percent .
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 use computer-aided design 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 decor , 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 . Mosaic tiles are frequently used and can be laid in customized patterns for a uniquely personal look .
Although cherry wood cabinets are classic , white cabinets are also popular . Cherry will give your kitchen a warm feel , while white cabinets will brighten the space and have a clean appearance .
As for flooring , experts say you can ’ t go wrong with natural stone , and travertine is still popular . After the stone is sealed , it ’ s an easycare 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 . n
HAMPTON ❘ SPRING 2023 21