SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
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. Laipple says 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 MAKEOVER
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.
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 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. 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. ■
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