IN Millcreek Spring 2019 | Page 59

SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT A creative builder can help you make the most of your available space. If your work area is not separated from the rest of your home and building a wall is not an option, there are still attractive ways to define your space. For example, tall wooden shutters can be linked together with hinges and painted 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 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. BATHROOM BEAUTY 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. 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! New technology allows your favorite TV program to be projected onto the mirror, so Continued on next page > MILLCREEK ❘ SPRING 2019 57