SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
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 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. ■
WEST MIFFLIN
❘
SPRING 2019
25