SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
can be linked together with hinges and painted any color to create
a private area. Though not soundproof, they can create an intimate
atmosphere of privacy when needed for oneself or seeing clients.
Tall silk plants, such as a series of ficus trees, can also be used to
divide the space.
Don’t skimp on your office chair! It’s likely a place where you
will be sitting for several hours every single day. Make sure it’s
comfortable and provides plenty of lumbar support, in addition to
being an attractive addition to your office. Visit Spine-Health.com
for some helpful suggestions on choosing the right chair that will
work best for you.
BATHROOM BEAUTY
Though your bathroom may not spring to mind as the place to
hold your next cocktail party, with the right accoutrements your
bath can be a great place to hang out and enjoy life. And if you live
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 among
your family, along with a bidet, which ensures a much cleaner
experience.
14
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
❘
icmags.com
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. ■