SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
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
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 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
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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. ■