Should I Remodel My Kitchen?

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4 Good Reasons to Remodel Your Kitchen

The kitchen is considered the heart of the home and is the most heavily trafficked room in the house with most homeowners entering them two to three times a day or more than 1,000 times a year. For this reason, and many others it is safe to say that if you are thinking about remodeling your space, it may really be time to do so. Here are a few reasons you should consider remodeling your kitchen.

It’s Outdated

The number one reason that most homeowners choose to remodel their kitchens is because they have become outdated. Over the last 20 years, kitchens have become the focal point of the home. Kitchens are becoming larger and have more cabinetry options than ever. They have dedicated areas for coffee, appliances, and food preparation, and they can contain islands, breakfast nooks, designated seating areas and more. If you remodel your kitchen, it can ease the process of preparing and cooking meals, as well as increase the amount of time you spend with your family and guests.

You are Financially Ready

Most homeowners would renovate their homes more often if they had more disposable income or the funding to perform the needed renovations and upgrades. Been saving and feel ready to finally upgrade? What do you have to lose?

Your Kitchen is No Longer Functional for You & Your Family

Your needs for your kitchen are going to change throughout your years spent in your home. Your kitchen should be ready to adjust to your lifestyle changes. When you first moved into your home, your kitchen most likely fit your family situation perfectly. As time went on, things changed, you had children and those children got older. Now, you find yourself needing dedicated space for family and entertaining guests. The times have also changed where you may need space for new appliances, charging stations for electronics, etc. Remodeling your kitchen to fit your lifestyle will make day to day activities easier.

Increase Resell Value

The kitchen is an area that potential homebuyers look at first. If you are looking to sell your home in the next few years, a kitchen remodel can attract more buyers and help your home sell faster. Buyers look at the overall layout, appearance of the appliances and the amount of counter space. If these things don’t measure up to the buyer’s expectations, they may start thinking about how much it’s going to cost to perform a kitchen renovation in the near future and decrease their offer by the anticipated cost of the potential remodel.

Did this blog convince you to start our Design/Build process for your kitchen? If yes, contact us here: https://bit.ly/3jmCI4b. Not ready to commit yet? That’s okay! Follow us on our social media pages to see more of our work; Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Houzz!  

Keeping Up with Kitchen Trends

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These kitchen trends will be sure to withstand the ever-changing styles each year. No matter your design/remodeling preference, customizing these ticket items can guarantee a kitchen you’ll love time and again.

Classic White Kitchen

There’s a reason white kitchens are everywhere, but that doesn’t mean each one is the same. Depending how you dress it up, your white kitchen can look different than your neighbors. The main takeaway is that white isn’t going anywhere, and if you want a versatile vibe throughout time, then build on the basics of a white kitchen. 

Timeless Subway Tile

After many decades, subway tile is still here to stay, so why not have it in your home? Subway tile works with any color, any kitchen, and any budget. You can even style it in any pattern. The way it is placed introduces personality that other more decorative tiles may automatically elicit, but subway tile is subtle and a survivor to temporary contenders.

Shaker Style Cabinets

Sometimes simplicity is key, especially when it comes to cabinetry. Shaker style cabinets are the staple for farmhouse kitchens, but when paired with your choice of hardware, they can seamlessly blend with any aesthetic. 

Whether or not shaker is the style for you, being sure to customize your cabinetry guarantees a cleaner countertop and an easier lifestyle. Encasing appliances as built-ins or creating pantry storage will be a kitchen trend that never ceases to fade. 

A Well-Lit Island

We spend a lot of time in our kitchens simply preparing food or entertaining guests. Since the function of the kitchen will always remain the same, the need for space will also stay in high demand. When it comes to incorporating a kitchen island, dividing ample room for additional workspace and barstool seating makes for a stunning multi-purpose item that’s only missing its spotlight. 

Pendant lighting paired with an island is a popular way to dress up your kitchen across the decades. As for what style to initially choose, that’s up to you. Better yet, lighting can be easily installed and replaced, so when you find a style you want to swap in, there’s nothing standing in the way of your perfect pendant.

For more kitchen remodeling ideas that will keep up with the ever-changing trends , follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and Pinterest.

3 Steps to Approaching Your Kitchen Remodel

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Perhaps you wish for a gleaming, bright kitchen, designed to impress. Or maybe you have your eye on the latest and most innovative appliances to help you whip up gourmet meals. Ideally, however, you want your new kitchen to both look good and work well. “Form versus function is the age-old argument,” says Michael Connors of RemodelWerks, a contracting firm in Shrewsbury. “But you have to combine practicality and looks.” Keep his straightforward steps in mind for the perfect final blend in your finished kitchen.

Providing smart solutions. Hooked on spatial planning ever since he took a drafting class in high school, Connors received his degree in architectural building and engineering technology from the New England Institute of Technology. He especially delights in tricky problems. “I like solving stuff that people say is hard or impossible to do.”

Enjoying the reveal. Connors finds nothing more gratifying than clients’ reactions to his finished spaces. “After I spend a lot of time figuring out how something will work, then I see the look on clients’ faces when it’s done — that’s my favorite thing,” he says. “Thinking about how my work affects a family’s life is amazing.”

Ready to cook up your ideal kitchen? Connors shares his tips below.

1. Consider Layout

In his area of Massachusetts, Connors says, many homes have small galley kitchens. “First think about the footprint, whether you want it bigger or smaller, walls to take down, the overall space.”

For this Shrewsbury home, the team removed the wall between the kitchen and family room to open up the previously dark, partitioned spaces. It then added an island where the wall used to be, then moved appliances around to better function for the busy family, putting the fridge and dishwasher to the side of the sink instead of on opposite walls. White cabinetry and neutral tones for the countertops, backsplash and walls enhance the sense of spaciousness.

2. Think About Use

Whether you like to host big parties and often have lots of people over, or you prefer to hang out and cook with your immediate family, “always try to say what you will ultimately use your kitchen for,” Connors says.

The owners of this Medfield home wanted a central space that was welcoming to the whole family. The team created a large island where kids can do homework while parents prep meals. A wine fridge is tucked into the island for the adults. New cabinetry around the chimney corrals extra stuff, and floating shelves display art and treasured items.

3. Add Some Fun

Lastly, enhance your space with a burst of personality. “Embrace the opportunity to do something cool and fun,” Connors says.

In this Shrewsbury kitchen, the owner really wanted “something that when people came over, they’d say, ‘Wow,’ ” Connors says. He helped create a way to install an 80-gallon saltwater fish tank, with storage for filtration and filters above and below. The access panel mimics the cabinetry so it looks seamless with the rest of the space.

This story was written by the Houzz Sponsored Content team.

Questions To Ask Before Starting A Remodel

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Recently we featured the questions every homeowner should ask before hiring a general contractor. But choosing the best professional for a project is just the beginning. What comes next is equally as important. You want to be sure you’re prepared for your project by following up with your contractor on the specifics. Consider consulting your contractor with these additional questions before any remodeling occurs.

1. How long will the project take? 

Not only is it important to understand when the project will start and end, but it is helpful to know if there are expected dates for material arrival. Every remodel is different, and the same goes for selections. However, no matter the selections be it flooring, cabinetry, etc, asking about anticipated dates reassures you as a client that there is structure and planning within the expected timeline. If for any reason the project extends longer, a schedule can exist as a reference for further understanding. 

2. What is the best way to communicate/What does your communication look like?

If you are living elsewhere during your remodel, knowing whether or not your contractor will update you on progress or setbacks might be of importance for you. How this communication will occur, whether over the phone (via text or call) or email will keep you on the lookout on the appropriate device. Additionally, asking how often you should expect to hear from the contractor allows you to be more flexible in your schedule if there are days/times he/she expects to provide an update.

3. Who will be on site, and how will they protect my property?

Depending on the size of your project or the scope of work, there may be a lot of people on site. If the number of people at your house is a concern, asking upfront before the remodeling begins helps you absorb the information at hand. With many people working, there are many tasks to be done. Knowing if and how someone will lock up your house at the end of each day can give you the peace of mind you deserve as a homeowner. 

This question can also pertain to how your items inside the house will be protected during renovations to prevent any damage. Will you have to temporarily move furniture out, or is it realistic to work around that which you are keeping? Understanding if there is anything you can do before the remodel to assist in the process or protection of any household items could help expedite the renovation process.   

4. Where do you store materials when they arrive?

Typically selections are chosen before the start of the renovation, making their ordering process more efficient. In the schedule, there may be dates already allotted for when materials will be ordered and how long they will take to arrive. Once they do arrive, knowing where they will be stored, if someone will be on site to confirm the order, etc helps assure the materials are protected. A contractor may confirm whether or not storing the materials on the property is acceptable or if it’s preferred they’re stored elsewhere.

5. Do you suggest finding a place to stay during the duration of the remodel?

Some homeowners prefer to live in the house during their renovations, but the task is certainly not for everyone. If you are still deciding on where to stay, consult your contractor. They know better than anyone the extent of the project and if it could affect the daily chores of your life. The primary construction that consists of loud drilling or constant movement around the space may occur during your own personal workday. So at the end of the day, even if you do come home to a renovation in progress, at least you’ll come home to quiet.

For more guides to remodeling, stay up to date on our blog, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn to track our renovation projects! 

Spring Remodeling

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Spring is in the air, and you know what that means! Time for Spring cleaning. Or should we say Spring remodeling? March is the beginning of a busy season for interior design and home remodeling services, which is why you should get ahead of the crowd now.

While the kids are still in school and not occupying the house for Summer break yet, tackle those projects you’ve been postponing all Winter. With most holidays having winded down, there couldn’t be a better time to put some love back into your home. But if you’re not already convinced, here are some more reasons Spring is the best season to spruce up your space.

It’s the Season of Change

The weather isn’t too hot nor too cold, and the flowers are all starting to bloom. With Spring symbolizing a period of rebirth and change, why wouldn’t you invest in a design transformation? In a time where everything else is flourishing, your home should flourish too. 

Maybe that means finally adding a deck to amplify your outdoor entertaining scene for the warm weather ahead or upgrading your kitchen while supplies are on sale. No matter the space you plan to add or redo, we can’t think of a better time than today.

Supply Sales

In case you missed our stealth mention of it before, spring is the season for sales. Especially Emily’s Interiors’, cabinetry sale going on now until March 31st, making it the best time to buy for your kitchen or bath upgrades. Why let more time and savings pass you by? 

For Convenience Sake

Since school is still in session and February break has passed, you’re most likely on the home stretch until summer, or at least until April break. Meaning you won’t have to worry about the progress of construction or subcontractors working while away on summer vacation. 

Start and finish your project on time and on budget with Spring finally in full swing. Taking advantage of the increased daylight hours, the promising weather helps ensure deadlines are met with time to spare.

Whether you’re looking to stay or sell, remodeling your home this Spring increases the value of your home both monetarily and aesthetically. And with the added savings, we promise you won’t be disappointed.

Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring A General Contractor

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Before remodeling your home, it’s important to understand who you’re working with. The best way to get to know the right contractor is by asking the right questions. At the end of the day, you may choose the professional with the most experience, but it is still crucial to gather as much information as you need to decide the best fit for you and your project.

#1 How long have you been in business?

Knowing how long a company has been in business can provide perspective as to how much experience the contractor has or if they need to continue to grow further. Some contractors however, have practiced technical or honed skills prior to entering a business. These qualities can be helpful in determining the type of contractor you feel most comfortable entrusting with your project’s needs. RemodelWerks CEO, Joe Kupstas has over 28 years of experience in the business. RemodelWerks launched its award-winning business in 2012.

#2 Are you a licensed contractor?

License certification requirements vary depending on the city, state, or even country in which you live. Asking about your potential contractors credentials ensures they have gone through all the necessary avenues to be certified in your region. Their license number also allows you as a homeowner to see if they have any previous information relating to their work including a history of claims.

#3 How many similar projects have you done before?

Just because a contractor is certified in the area of expertise for which you are in need of, does not mean they are the best professional for the job. By inquiring about similar projects, you can develop a sense of whether or not the contractor is highly qualified enough for your scope of work. 

#4 What does your work procedure from beginning to end of the day look like?

When the contractor or any subcontractors begin work is a useful question to have answered for the sake of knowing if and how long workers will be at your house during your congruent work day. In terms of procedures, having an idea of their process, anticipated storage for tools, and what their clean-up consists of at the end of each day allows you to envision what to expect during construction. 

#5 Is there a warranty on services/products?

A majority of contractors have a form of warranty on their work or products like a manufacturer’s guarantee. Knowing what the warranties are exactly and how long they extend can give you peace of mind if something needs replacement or repair.  RemodelWerks has a superior 5-Year Warranty.

#6 What’s the best way to get in touch with you?

Getting a contractor’s business information including a phone number, cell or business, and a business address is one of the most important details to obtain when interviewing or hiring a contractor. Asking what method of communication is preferred, the best times to contact him,  and when you should expect a response is crucial to maintaining an open and effective line of communication. 

For more of your remodeling questions answered, be sure to read our bi-weekly blogs, and don’t forget to follow our pages on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. Ready to start your project? Contact us today.

What You Need To Know Before Taking On a Kitchen or Bath Remodel

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Kitchens and bathrooms are the two most important rooms in the house. Whether savoring your home for a while longer or selling your home in the near future, remodeling these two rooms drive costs up. Cost of your home that is. 

Remodeling is always an exciting feat when your design comes to life, but what about all the time, work, and waiting that lie in between the start of the project and the finished result? Well, that’s what we’re here to shed light upon. 

Finding Alternatives 

For both kitchen and bathroom remodels, the client has to make sacrifices during the duration of the remodel that apply seldom to other areas of the home. When renovating the kitchen, be prepared to set up camp for prep and meals elsewhere in the house or be open to dining out. 

As for the bathroom, depending on how many baths the home has, you may be safe. If you’re renovating your only full bath, however, finding an alternative place to shower is one mission in store. 

Putting Costs Into Perspective

In terms of cost, the national average of remodeling the kitchen and bathroom are $40,000 and $20,000 respectively. These costs do not reflect changing the layout of either space, and for some homeowners, changing the layout is necessary to increase the room’s efficiency and functionality.  

A good rule of thumb is to spend between 5%-10% of your home’s current value on a bathroom remodel. Guest baths fall on the lower end of the range while investing in a master should be around if not at the top end of the cap.

When determining the cost of either space, rerouting plumbing or electrical can quickly increase the budget but can be worth the extra investment for greater practicality.  

Where to Splurge in the Bathroom

Making final selections for the bathroom can be difficult, but with some guidance, you can be and stay on the right track. Choices worth an additional expense include dual vanities and heated flooring in the master or any additional storage opportunities in either bath. 

In terms of finishes, avoid natural stones for countertops or shower tile, for they can easily fall out of budget. Natural stones require more maintenance than less expensive porcelain, however, can be used within a niche if absolutely desired.    

Where to Splurge in the Kitchen

Getting the most out of your kitchen is a must when investing in a redesign. The best way to determine where to splurge in the kitchen is to evaluate how the kitchen should function for the family. Tailoring choices to your lifestyle will greatly benefit the ease and efficiency of the space. 

Overall, investing in cabinetry can be universally recommended. Bringing cabinets up to the ceiling grants additional storage and the illusion of a taller space. Choosing a quartz or granite countertop can also be beneficial in withstanding time and toughness.    

The most important piece of advice for any homeowner looking to invest in a kitchen or bath remodel is to personalize your space. If the investment is for resale purposes within a 1-2 year time span, personal preferences may find their way onto the back burner, but are crucial for homeowners seeking to stay.

With a little research of local contractors and some time perfecting your design, you’re sure to have a home you’ll love for rest or resale. Want to learn more about the design/build space? Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

5 Design/Build Companies To Follow on Instagram

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Looking for future remodeling ideas or new accounts to follow? We took a page out of Emily’s Interiors book and are sharing our favorite design build companies Instagram pages!

Dive into the world of design build with these five accounts!

1. @Greystreetdesignllc

Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, Grey Street Design, LLC customizes and creates spaces that fit their clients style and function. With an attention to detail and good design, their remodels make clients feel right at home. Featuring unique takes on “his” and “hers” kitchens, Grey Street Design engages all members in an exciting design journey. We can’t wait to see where their American Classic home renovation journey will take them!

2. @Bellweatherllc

With over 25 years of dedication to the industry, Bellweather Design-Build is certainly a prevailing force in the Philadelphia area. Designing and producing kitchens galore, their feed is nothing short of refreshing. As an Instagram follower, you feel like part of the experience from start to finish. Learning about team members, staying informed with design selections, seeing renderings, and awaiting the photos of the final reveal, keeps you on your toes the whole time.

3. @Bentonhomebuildersstl

From exterior revamps to interior renovations, Benton Homebuilders offers new construction services that brighten and beautify the space you live. Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Benton Homebuilders work alongside clients to design the floor plan and finishes that fit the homeowners. There is always something new to look at among their feed and could have us scrolling for days.

4. @Harthbuilders

We can’t ignore the rich wood tones in Harth Builders feed. At first glance, the designs are so lively, and upon second glance of the before picture, the after shot remains that much more stunning. Their commitment to quality and cleanliness is showcased in each one of their projects. Every bathroom, bedroom, and new build is brought to life with the help of Harth Builders. 

5. @meltondesignbuild

Clean lines and close ups describe the feed of Melton Design Build. Their projects showcase everything from modern designs to bright whites and pops of color. Having been the first remodeling firm in Boulder, Colorado to earn the Building Analyst Professional Certification, Melton Design Build displays levels of sophistication and dedication to their clients satisfaction. Their attention to detail and passion for their craft certainly can’t be denied.    

Keep an eye on our social media feeds as we continue to share company updates, finished products and more of our favorite industry follows! We are on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Small Remodeling Projects With Big Value

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Want to invest in your home for greater resale value down the road? What appeals to buyers varies depending on location, but we made a list of small remodeling projects every home can benefit from when it comes time to sell.

Updating the Kitchen

When it comes to renovating the heart of the home, it’s important to keep cohesion between the kitchen and the rest of the spaces. For starters, a fresh, modern coat of paint can instantly transform a room.

Updating or replacing cabinetry is also a sure way to increase the value of your home. Small projects include replacing hardware, restaining cabinets, adding a backsplash, or switching to energy efficient appliances. In terms of the added benefits of energy efficient appliances, they not only help you save money while you live in the home, but they will save potential buyers money when they move in. 

Making minor adjustments in your kitchen has up to 82.7% return on investment depending on quality and consistency.

Room Conversions

Any unfinished rooms or wasted space in the home are opportunities to repurpose before resale. Converting an attic into a bedroom or finishing the basement may be on the larger end of small remodeling projects, but they can yield 84% return on investment.  

Before taking on a room conversion, consider the new function or purpose of the space. An attic could serve as a bedroom or playroom, whereas a basement can function as a second living room, a game room, or even a rental space. Tailoring the room to the type of buyers you want to attract is an easy way to remodel with purpose and ensure future money in your pocket.

Bathroom Remodeling

Much like the kitchen, updating the aesthetics of the bathroom can increase appeal to today’s home buyers. Low cost improvements such as replacing bathroom plumbing fixtures and tile can take your bathroom to the next level along with addressing any damages before listing.    

For properties with only one bath, adding a second can recoup as much as 130% of your investment depending on the size and styling. The best advice for creating a second bath is to re-purpose an already existing room instead of building a new bathroom addition. 

Final Touches

Maintaining the safety and integrity of your home is an important feature for homebuyers. Making sure there is care put into the home whether from a quick exterior paint refresh or tackling any small interior projects will help you get the most for your home when it comes time to sell.

Stay tuned for what to expect during remodels and how to handle mistakes before they become costly. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram for upcoming projects and all of your remodeling needs.

Remodeling Before The Holidays

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Preparing for the holiday season means preparing the house for feasts, guests, and endless amounts of decor. Truth be told, who doesn’t want to show off their house during the holidays, especially after a long overdue remodel? Remodeling before the holidays may sound scary, but it’s actually one of the best times to take on a project, and here’s why!

First Impressions

You may have previously hosted your family and friends for the holidays, so their first impression has already been made, but what about their second first impression? Imagine guests entering into your brand new foyer, completely unaware of your upgrade until they walk through the front door. They’re impressed! Renovating your front entryway is the best way to welcome guests into your home. It’s the first impression that they make of your space, so why not make it a good one!

Kick start The Kitchen

You’ve already kicked off your shoes in your brand new foyer and are off to a solid start. In keeping with the spirit of the holidays, show your kitchen some love too. You can renovate your kitchen all at once or a little bit at a time, taking the pressure away from a rushed remodel.

While working up to a whole new upgrade, a great way to get started is by replacing appliances. A builder can help design your kitchen before any major purchases, as to predict what appliances will fit. With a new kitchen comes new or newly-painted cabinets! No matter how small or large, kitchen renovations can transform your home for the holidays and more to come.

More People, More Powder Rooms

It’s inevitable that when you host for the holidays, you host for the whole family. Don’t let space be a struggle. Add a new powder room or update your existing one to be more accommodating for an excess amount of guests. Even when your guests leave, you have an additional space for current use and a return on investment for future prospects!  

Little Demolition, Big Impact

We all know that sightlines can be important in a home, especially when you are entertaining or have little ones running around. With a little demolition, walls come down, and your space opens up, creating an ease of access between rooms. You’ll no longer miss out on conversations while cooking once your open concept space takes shape.

The holidays are a time for friends, family, food, and fantastic homes. So what are you waiting for? Pick your project today, and give us a call! We can’t wait to transform your home for the holidays!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for our latest projects and postings.