SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
INDOOR
Mixed materials are making their way into kitchens and
bathrooms, thanks to a variety of new finishes available for
appliances, countertops and fixtures. What were once rooms
tucked away and never mentioned are now becoming gathering
places for entertaining and spa-like sanctuaries sought after for
relief from a long day. The kitchen and bathroom are really feeling
the love this season, with punch and pizazz being added to
personalize the spaces.
Bathroom
Bathrooms continue to gain importance as a space used for
relaxation and meditation. Bathroom sizes are larger than they
once were, bringing in more room for added features such as
soaker tubs and extended shower stalls. No room to expand the
bathroom walls? Opt for an illusion of space with large tile sizes
on the floor and practical storage solutions to make room for
your calming sanctuary.
• Brass is back: Have brass hardware from the ‘90s in your
bathroom? Don’t get rid of it just yet! With rose gold and
copper making their way into the hardware scene last year,
brass is also making a comeback. Chrome and satin are still the
frontrunners, but switch up the classics for a trendier look.
• Natural stone sinks: Granite is so 2016. Countertops are
now boasting durable quartz and hand-carved stone sinks.
Porcelain will always be a classic crowd favorite, but the trend
is moving toward the natural look and feel of stone.
• Patterned tiles: Ceramics are enhancing bathroom floors,
accent walls, and shower stalls with geometric designs and
wood-like patterns. These tiles are adding a decorative touch to
a room that doesn’t often get much decorating love.
Kitchen
Although homes are trending smaller, kitchens are getting
bigger and becoming the preferred gathering point for families.
Formal dining room walls are being blown out to create an
extension to the kitchen. These larger areas allow for more
creative freedom when choosing dining sets, appliances, and
countertops. Customization in this room of the house is key.
Continued on page 35 >
John E. Lippl is an attorney and
registered professional engineer
(civil/structural). Before beginning
his current practice focusing on
the legal aspects of construction,
engineering and architecture, he
worked as a project manager for
major general contractors, as an
attorney with several law firms and
as general counsel for a contractor.
• Experienced arbitrator, trained
mediator and frequent lecturer
at legal and engineering
conferences.
• Veteran U.S. Navy Civil Engineer
Corps (Seabees) with two tours
in Iraq.
• Representing commercial and
residential clients in legal
matters involving construction
disputes, defects and delays.
JOHN E. LIPPL P.E., ATTORNEY AT LAW
806 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228
(412) 341-7820 or [email protected]
www.UseTheConstructionLawyer.com
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