Kitchen

Remodeling projects for fall, keeping up with the neighbors, and other links

The night air is starting to chill across the country, while the rest of us in the Valley of the Sun continue to bake. But just because fall is starting everywhere else doesn’t mean we have to sit out for all the fun.

The time to start is now if you hope to get a home improvement project finished before the holidays. This article from the Shreveport Times spotlights a few projects that are popular for autumn, including replacing windows, strengthening the roof, sprucing up patios, and getting started on any additions.

No matter where you start, it’s a good idea to enlist the help of experts and make sure the whole house conforms to the same theme and flow.

Award-winning interior designer Marie Flanigan outlines her strategy to the Houston Chronicle, saying it is important to pay attention to architectural details, color, light, scale, and texture no matter the size of your project.

And don’t worry about trying to entice Flanigan from the Houston area. We know a designer that will definitely rock your world.

Lastly, we know remodeling inspiration comes in many forms. But it seems more people are comfortable admitting they are trying to keep up with the neighbors.

According to this article, just under half of folks, 48 percent, admit to beginning a remodel because they are envious of a neighbor, friend or relative’s house. Also, 42 percent say they feel competition to have the nicest house in the neighborhood.

Have a great week!

Remodeling advice for empty nesters and other links

School has started for many homeowners, which means more people are getting their first taste of being empty nesters.

Don’t fret! Some good can come out of the adjustment period.

Many people use an empty house as a tool to improve their living space. This article outlines several ideas for empty nesters, including investing in finer furniture, installing new flooring, repurposing children’s bedrooms, updating your entertaining space, or taking care of projects to boost your resale value.

Without kids and young adults to put wear and tear on your house, now is the time to remodel the house to your particular taste. Go wild!

If smaller projects are more your speed, don’t worry because we have ideas for you too.

As this article points out, many homeowners will use a remodel of a powder room as an opportunity to experiment with high-end finishes and bright colors since the space is small and mostly for guests.

Furthermore, many homeowners can use the powder room as a testing ground for things they might want to use in the rest of the house down the road.

Finally, if you just want to see what other people are doing, we have a list of six remodeling trends for 2018.

The list covers both inside and outside of the house, so you are sure to find something you enjoy.

Have a good week!

Popular home remodeling trends for 2018

July is almost here, which means we are almost halfway through the year. What better time than now to look at the remodeling trends so far in 2018?

A HomeAdvisor article that appears on the Bristol Herald Courier’s website lists the top trends in home remodeling, and it features some classics and some new demands.

First up are outdoor spaces. As the article notes, since our phones can do anything, we are all free to enjoy our entertainment with the elements. More people are adding outdoor kitchens to complement improved seating and entertainment spaces under the sun and clouds.

Speaking of kitchens, more people are embracing the open floor plan, and with that comes updates to the kitchen. Whether it is adding smart elements, more storage, or a dedicated workspace, like the article says, kitchens will continue to be a priority for remodelers.

Rounding out the top 3 are bathrooms. More people are looking to expand their bathrooms for many reasons, like adding luxury, aging in place, or universal design. All three can improve accessibility, safety, and style.

If this talk of trends sounds a little familiar, you are right, because back in February we outlined some early trends, which included smart home upgrades. Not too shabby, if I do say so myself.

More ways to save

No matter the year, saving money is always in style.

Reader’s Digest has a list of 32 (!!!) ways to save during a home renovation, so chances are you will find something you haven’t thought of. Some of the tips are a little far out there, so be sure to check with your contractor before taking a task upon yourself.

Have a great week!