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. 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
you’re entertaining. Maybe you already have a family room, but
it just needs to be a little larger for your needs. If this sounds
familiar, a home addition may be the perfect solution for making
life a little more comfortable.
The great thing about a new room is that you can plan it exactly
the way you want it. If you’re adding a family room or game
room, why not build a fireplace as well? This will quickly make it
the most visited room in your house. If you’re adding a bedroom
either for visiting parents or a returning college student, why not
include an ensuite bath, which will increase your home’s value as
well as make for more enjoyable visits for your guests.
As with any work done in your home, make sure that you do
your homework before contacting any contractors. It’s a good
idea to obtain estimates from three different contractors before
deciding which one to use. It helps to be as specific as possible
in your choices in order to get the most accurate estimates. Use a
spec sheet to ensure that you are giving all three contractors the
same exact information. Using local contractors is another great
way to ensure that you’re getting someone with a good reputation
in the community. Another good idea is to attend home shows
where you can actually
meet the contractors face
to face. It’s easier working
with someone with whom
you have a good rapport.
The most important
thing to remember in any
home design project is not
to be too focused on the
bottom line only. Many times the lowest price does not result in
the best‑quality job. Do your research to find the best person for
your particular project. ■
MONROEVILLE
❘
SPRING 2020
23