define your workspace. For example, tall wooden shutters can be linked
together with hinges and painted to any color to create a private area.
Though not soundproof, they can create an intimate atmosphere of
privacy when needed for oneself or seeing clients. Tall silk plants, such
as a series of ficus trees, can also be used to divide the space.
Don’t skimp on your office chair! It’s likely a place where you will be
sitting for several hours every single day. Make sure that it’s comfortable
and provides plenty of lumbar support, in addition to being an
attractive addition to your office. Visit Spine-Health.com for some
helpful suggestions on choosing the right chair that will work best for
you.
THE GREAT ESCAPE – YOUR BATHROOM
Though your bathroom may not spring to mind as the place to hold
your next cocktail party, with the right accoutrements, your bath can
be a great place to hang out and enjoy life. And if you live with family
members, it may be the only place in your house where you can truly be
alone for a bit.
Besides just being a place to “get ready” to meet the day, it’s also
a relaxing space to recharge your batteries after a long week at work.
Hydrotherapy is one of the best ways to relieve stress and help tired,
overworked muscles. With tons of specialized showerheads, you can
have everything from the sprinkle of a gentle rain to an invigorating
massage to bring your body back to center. And a nice relaxing bath in a
soaker tub can make the world go away for a while.
If a homeowner is just updating and not moving plumbing, heating
ducts and electricity, the makeover can start at around $10,000. The
choices for today’s 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 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! New 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 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 new 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 CUISINE
Whether your cooking style is Chicken Cordon Bleu, or just
some great Pad Thai take-out 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 significant 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.
You can give your kitchen a whole new look in any style from
ultra‑contemporary to French country. Your designer and builder
can assist you with computer-aided design (CAD) to help you
envision your dream.
Some new 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. Mosaic tiles are frequently used and can be laid in customized
patterns for a uniquely personal look.
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
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MARS AREA
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SPRING 2020
31