SPECIAL SECTION: HOME IMPROVEMENT
“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.
Laipple says 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 notes that 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 CUISINE
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.
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Although cherry wood cabinets are popular, Varner also says 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.
And 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 ho