Mar 16 2006
There are many reasons to embark on a home remodeling project - lack of space, organization and comfort being some of the most compelling. Adding to a home's value by updating the style and systems are factors driving many homeowners to take the remodeling plunge. According to a recent survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors, bathroom and kitchen renovations provide the best returns on investment.
"Knowing the best way to approach a project and the right company to complete it, will make the difference between a joyful experience and a stressful disaster," says Doug Dwyer, owner and president of DreamMaker(R) Bath & Kitchen.
Here are 10 hot tips from some of the nation's leading remodelers to jumpstart your next project:
General:
- Make sure you pick a style that suits and reflects your individual personality.
- Study the space in the room to be remodeled. Consider various arrangements for furniture, appliances and accessories to get the best idea of how to use the area.
- Design for both comfort and safety. Who will be frequenting the space? Products like helpful railings, seats or grab bars in shower enclosures are available in a variety of styles, finishes and colors. They can be used in attractive ways while providing a vital function.
- Determine the amount of light - too much or too little affects the ambience of the room. Experiment with different voltage and types of light bulbs, highlight different pieces of art, or shade areas that are not a focal point.
- Hide loose cords, speakers, or wall cracks by incorporating built-in speaker units or stylish molding.
- Expand the look and feel of your space by using mirrors in your design. - Create a point of interest in every room to give guests a feature to draw them into the space. Remember, less is sometimes more. Simplicity can equal a well-designed room.
Kitchen:
- Color is a key element. Choose three to four colors (including thecabinets, countertops, flooring and walls). Less than three isn't interesting enough and more than four makes the space too busy.
Bathroom:
- Small additions make an enormous difference. Add a seat or hand-held shower spray. Consider furniture-styled cabinets to give a custom look as opposed to traditional cabinets. These simple pleasures make bathing more convenient and relaxing.
Laundry Rooms:
- Laundry rooms need surface space. A built-in countertop over the washer and dryer, or a hinged countertop on an available wall, eases this daily chore and enhances the area.