Enhancing Available Kitchen Space
The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) reported that the kitchen has become one of the top rooms trending in the home improvement sector. A study published by Architectural Digest reported that expenditure on kitchen upgrades rose by 25% between 2020 and 2021, with spending expected to surpass $400 million by the end of 2023. The popularity of kitchen remodels is due to the importance of the room in terms of functionality. A malfunctioning kitchen can drastically affect the quality of life enjoyed by a household, with aspects such as meal preparations and food storage having a significant influence on the standard of living enjoyed within a residence.
An essential aspect to consider when thinking about a Framingham MA Kitchen Remodelling project is the spatial application of the area involved. The size of a kitchen can greatly affect the potential success of a renovation when considering suitable design solutions. It’s worth noting that this area is generally one of the smallest rooms in a house and yet it’s still expected to host several people at a go on multiple occasions. As such, the way an individual utilizes the available space in their kitchen when undertaking a remodel is highly essential when targeting success. Some effective strategies that can be implemented when looking to get the best out of this sector include:
Orthodox Decluttering
Many people think of remodeling ventures as the process of adding elements to a space to enhance its functionality and aesthetics. However, removing unneeded fixtures and features can be just as important when looking to enhance available space. Taking the time to identify items that can be negated from a kitchen setup without having an adverse effect offers additional space to move around, and the opportunity to integrate new aspects without resulting in cramped quarters. The best place to start with this strategy is to set aside every item used daily. This allows you to examine the remaining objects to determine what isn’t needed. Anything that’s only used for special occasions and can’t fit in a standard drawer, for instance, should be discarded. Anything that represents an unnecessary spare part should also be thrown out or stored in another vicinity. Installing combination appliances is another effective means of decluttering this space. Finding solutions that can technically kill two birds with one stone, for instance, is a great way to enhance available space. Combi ovens are one of the more popular options in this category, allowing users to choose from several cooking modes that are all available on one device.
Utilizing Dead Space
Dead space can be defined as sectors that have been left unused but still hold potential. Framingham MA Kitchen Remodelling professionals note that not all empty space is dead space. Cramming designs and elements in every free space you can find is never advisable. It’s essential to leave a little space between different elements of a kitchen, such as mounted shelving and countertops, allowing the room to breathe. Dead space can be identified as a …
Smart Kitchen Upgrades on a Budget
The National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) reported that the kitchen was the most popular option when it came to home improvement projects. This area features the highest functionality levels in a residence and has a significant influence on the quality of life enjoyed by a household. Implementing a kitchen remodel is also an effective means of enhancing the potential resale value of the home. According to Zillow, a minor kitchen renovation can feature a national return on investment (ROI) of 81.1%.
The potential expenses involved with a Newton MA Kitchen Remodelling can sometimes make homeowners hesitant about commencing such a venture. It should be noted, however, that the particular approach adopted will significantly influence the potential costs involved. Forbes reported that a kitchen renovation can average between $5,000 and $60, 000. Professionals in the industry recommend that an intensive kitchen remodel should represent 10% of the house’s valuation. However, thanks to progressive advancements in the tech industry, homeowners can implement several smart solutions with their renovation that can have a significant impact on a minimal budget.
Some of the more popular smart alternatives available in the kitchen remodeling market include:
Versatile Lighting
Smart lighting is arguably one of the more affordable options available with tech-based kitchen upgrades. There are several options available in the market and the installation process generally doesn’t take more than a couple of days to accomplish. LED strips have become a popular solution in this category and are a great way to integrate a contemporary feel with the overall design. Smart lighting allows individuals to change several aspects of this feature including brightness, and color. Some setups also feature designated lighting, allowing for different spaces to enjoy ambient and task lighting in the same room. Individuals looking to integrate additional features can also choose from several options including music-reactive LEDs, Bluetooth connectivity, and WiFi access.
Smart Appliances
Installing smart appliances is another effective way that can significantly enhance the overall functionality of this space. There are numerous options to choose from when it comes to this category, and ideal solutions will largely depend on an individual’s personal preferences. Wi-Fi access, for instance, opens up numerous options for an individual when it comes to different activities. Newton MA Kitchen Remodelling contractors recommend focusing on cooking and food storage when looking to install smart appliances in the kitchen. Ovens that can be remotely tracked and accessed, for instance, can significantly lower the risk of burning a dish as a result of distraction. Refrigerators that monitor performance issues and alert the user in case of issues such as a fridge door left open can enhance the longevity of the device and lower utility bills. Some monitoring services in refrigerators also offer meal planning services that alert users when an item is about to expire or suggest recipes according to the content inventoried in its register. All in all, the addition of smart appliances can greatly enhance the efficiency of a kitchen.
Taking the time to consult with an established …
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
One of the main aspects individuals need to consider when thinking about a remodeling project is where to start. In most cases, employing an extensive home renovation that affects the entire residence is generally out of the scope of most homeowners when it comes to financial terms. As such, most people tend to focus on one section at a time when looking to implement such a venture. According to multiple reports, the kitchen and bathroom represent the two most popular options when it comes to home improvement alternatives. The bathroom represents a highly functional section of any residence and upgrading this area can have multiple benefits when done in the right manner.
One of the major issues that make many homeowners hesitant about undertaking a Bathroom Remodel project is the potential expenses required with the project. According to Architectural Digest, a bathroom renovation can cost just over $10,000 on average. The report highlights that this number isn’t written in stone, however, and the project can feature figures ranging from $2,500 to $80,000, depending on the particular activities involved.
What Affects the Price of a Bathroom Remodel?
Several factors can influence the overall fee spent on upgrading a bathroom and individuals must take the time to consider these elements when planning a venture of their own. Some of the primary elements that can affect the cost of a bathroom renovation include:
Location
Granted, different contractors will have varying rates in any region, but the geographical location of one’s home also plays a major role in the potential price ranges enjoyed by a homeowner. Generally speaking, the higher the cost of living experienced in an area, the higher the remodeling prices tend to be. With this in mind, it will likely cost more to remodel a bathroom in areas such as New York and California, compared to regions such as Massachusetts. Unfortunately, this is a factor that can’t be changed, unless one is willing to move house.
Activities Involved
An area that a homeowner can effectively control when it comes to a Bathroom Remodel project is the particular activities involved with the venture. Paint jobs and wallpapers, for example, represent some of the more affordable options in this sector – with the Architectural Digest noting that painting ventures can cost between $375 to $800. Wallpaper, on the other hand, can cost $5 to $11 per square foot, including labor. A shower and tub combination can cost between $700 to $8,000, while toilet upgrades can cost between $300 to $2,000. Sinks represent a cheaper option and can start as low as $200.
Payment Plans
As mentioned earlier, different contractors will feature different prices with their range of services. As such, an individual’s budget in relation to their preferred candidate will determine the final price of their renovation project. It’s also worth noting that multiple contracting firms offer different payment plans that allow individuals to settle their dues over time. However, the final price related to such an arrangement will generally be higher than …
Enhancing your Shower Space
Bathrooms are arguably one of the leading rooms of choice when it comes to home improvement projects. There are numerous options available when it comes to upgrading this space, and the activities involved will play a significant role in the functionality an individual can enjoy with the results. One of the trending ventures involved with remodeling bathrooms includes enhancing the shower section. This area technically represents one of the smallest areas of a house, and as such, things can tend to get a little cramped.
There are several ways a Bathroom Remodeling service can enhance available shower space. Some of these include:
Installing an Alcove Shower Bath
Integrating a shower bath with your renovation is a great way to enjoy the best of both worlds. As the name suggests, shower baths are simply tubs that have a shower head installed above them, allowing individuals to stand upright for a quick shower or fully immerse themselves in the tub when they would rather take the time to pamper themselves. Homeowners with an existing bathtub can initiate this transformation with minimal fuss as all that’s needed is the addition of a shower head. Transforming a shower space into a shower bath can cost between $3,000 to $5,000 on average. You will also need to apply for a plumbing permit in most cases to ensure the job is done legally. Installing this combination bathing solution into an alcove is a great way to enhance the sense of space enjoyed in the room. The entire transformation can take between 2 to 5 days depending on the contractor and details involved.
Integrating Smart Tech
Integrating a range of solutions via several apps and smart technology is another great way to enhance your shower with a Bathroom Remodeling project. There are multiple options to consider with this aspect, with a majority of alternatives focused on enhancing the efficiency of the shower through innovative, modern solutions. According to Fortune Business Insights, most people install smart solutions in their bathrooms to instill a luxurious experience in this sector and/or assist with various elements connected to functionality. Grand View Research reported that the smart bathroom market was valued at over $7 billion in 2021 and was projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.1% between 2023 and 2030. The rise of smart homes as a whole has played an influential factor in the trend seeping into bathroom accessories. Some of the more popular smart solutions you can integrate into your shower include voice-activated shower heads, motion-sensor shampoo dispensers, adjustable privacy screens, and smart shower heads. Contrary to popular belief, many of these options are quite affordable and won’t require a significant fee to install.
Frameless Shower Cubicle
In simple terms, a frameless enclosure can be described as a glass cubicle that doesn’t feature any metal framing for support. It’s generally made from tempered glass which is harder than the orthodox option that requires additional framing support. Integrating this feature into a bathroom is a great way …
Improving the Safety Levels of Your Bathroom
The bathroom is one of the highly functional areas of a house, and its functionality is significantly essential to the standard of living available to a household. The environment of this section also makes it one of the more dangerous sections of a residence. A study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that over 200, 000 people above the age of 15 visit the hospital as a result of injuries suffered in the bathroom. Approximately 14% of this number are admitted for treatment. Taking the time to ensure safety levels are up to standard in the bathroom is especially essential for households with younger children and senior citizens with mobility issues.
Some effective ways you can improve safety with a Bathroom Remodel include:
Increasing Traction
One of the main causes of injuries in the bathroom is slips and falls. The National Institute of Health reported that individuals between 41 to 60 represent the age group most susceptible to falls in the bathroom, but this is a risk faced by all ages. The report states that the high density of the hard flooring is one of the major reasons behind the potential morbidity and mortality rates of falls in this part of the house. Improving the traction of the floors is an effective means of reducing the risk of slips and falls. Installing non-slip solutions such as mats and non-skid decals is one of the simplest ways of reducing slipperiness. Replacing slick surfaces such as tiles with alternatives featuring more friction such as textured concrete and vinyl offers a longer-lasting solution for this particular problem. Installing grab bars is another good way to prevent falls in the shower. Adding a shower bench is a great solution for senior citizens and younger individuals with mobility problems.
Limit Overexertion
According to the CDC, overexertion represents the second leading cause of accidents that happen in the bathroom. This simply refers to overreaching or overstretching to access certain areas. This problem is especially serious when dealing with senior citizens and children. A good means of addressing this issue is by integrating bathroom seating in bathtubs and showers, as well as raising toilet seats for older individuals and providing stepping stools for younger users. It’s also essential to keep all items at eye level for easy access. This includes installing shelving and cabinets at least 24 inches above the toilet tank, while the same can be said for light switches. Countertops and vanities should also be between 32 to 34 inches in height to ensure elderly individuals can use them comfortably without having to overstretch or hunch over. Integrating cabinets and shower screens with a hydraulic function allows doors to be closed without the need for constant pressure until it’s slammed shut.
Enhanced Lighting
Ensuring the visibility of this space is adequate is highly essential in improving safety levels. Floors are generally more slippery when wet, but identifying stray puddles away from the shower zone isn’t always easy without the proper lighting. …
Trending Bathroom Upgrades in 2023
The bathroom is arguably one of the most popular sections of a residence to remodel. Zillow reported that bathroom remodels were the second most popular home improvement project in 2021 after interior paint jobs. According to Global Market Insights, the North American bathroom remodeling industry is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4% from 2021 to 2027. There are multiple aspects to consider when taking up such a venture, with the particular approach adopted depending on the primary objectives of the homeowner.
Some of the top trends in Bathroom Remodeling upgrades include:
Steam Showers
A study published by The Independent reported that 57% of the respondents that took part in their survey stated that they would prefer a shower over a tub when it came to bathroom options. This has been a growing trend in recent years because of several reasons, the leading factors being the potential expenses involved and increased awareness regarding environmental conservation. Lifestyles have also played a valid role in this option, as many people have found it hard to find the time to enjoy a relaxing soak in a tub, and would rather take a quick 5 to 10-minute shower because of their busy schedule. However, individuals leaning towards shower solutions can still enhance the experience with a few upgrades in this sector. One of the leading trends that have emerged is the installation of steam showers. As the name suggests, these are typically steam rooms that come with the features of a shower cubicle. Contractors install a humidifying steam generator to produce water vapor directed toward an individual. This option offers a great spa-like experience and the good news is the generator can be added to a standard shower, allowing users to pick and choose their preference on a day-to-day basis.
Decorative Lighting
Lighting has always been an important feature in bathrooms as it enhances the safety levels available in this region. Orthodox lighting has recently been integrated with decorative alternatives to enhance the ambiance of the area. It should be noted that decorative lighting should never fully replace orthodox lighting but rather should be installed in specific sections of the bathroom that don’t require a lot of illumination. Areas such as the shower cubicle and bathtub, however, should always have proper lighting for safety purposes. There are multiple options to choose from when it comes to vanity lighting, and the upgrades involved will depend on elements such as the available budget and personal taste and preferences. LED lights are a great option for individuals looking to kill two birds with one stone. Ambient lighting can be accomplished by installing dimmer bulbs and varying the colors. Smart lighting has also come to the forefront in this category, allowing individuals to control aspects such as the colors and the brightness levels available. Placement of the fixtures can also impact the overall backdrop of the room when it comes to lighting. Installing fixtures vertically on the walls or recessed into the ceiling, for …
Transforming your Master Bathroom
Remodeling your home can be a great way to personalize different spaces to meet bespoke living arrangements. The bathroom represents one of the most popular options when it comes to remodeling projects, with master bathrooms taking the lead in this category. A master bathroom can generally be defined as the largest bathroom area within a residence and in most cases it’s connected directly to the master bedroom. Renovating your master bathroom can transform it into a personal oasis where you can let your hair down after a long hard day, or start your morning with a positive experience before tackling your daily objectives.
A bathroom habits survey conducted by MaP reported that the average individual spends approximately 30 minutes in the bathroom daily. As such, transforming this area into a personal sanctuary can be a great investment, considering one will generally spend over 180 hours in this space each year. Some effective strategies you can implement with a master bathroom remodel include:
Tubs vs. Showers
Although a master bathroom generally encompasses a bathtub and shower, areas with small spaces can lead to a cramped look when taking the traditional approach. Master bathrooms are generally between 100 and 200 square feet on average, while smaller versions figure an average of about 40 square feet. Many urban apartments generally feature the latter as a result of smaller spaces. Having your Needham Bathroom Remodel contractors focus on a tub or shower as a sole addition is an effective alternative when dealing with smaller ensuites. Choosing one over the other ensures you can enjoy the full benefit of the chosen setup, instead of having the experience limited by confined space. A tub is great for individuals who would like to approach their bath as a time to rest and relax with a spa-like experience. A walk-in shower, on the other hand, offers higher accessibility levels, can implement several features including handlebars and seats, and are easier to clean.
Enhancing Available Space
A popular option with master bedroom remodels involves room expansions where an individual knocks down one of the walls to an adjoining space to create a bigger room. It should be noted, however, that this venture poses one of the most significant outlays in this category. If you’re working on a budget, an expansion might not fit the bill when it comes to finances. Such a project will involve a lot of structural work, meaning homeowners will need to acquire several permits to complete the task. Some of the major aspects that will be involved with this kind of Needham MA Bathroom Remodel will include additional plumbing, electrical work, and structural readjustments. All of these areas represent major upgrades that are likely to come at a significant cost.
Most homeowners tend to focus on smaller projects, however, when remodeling their master bathroom. Research website Statista released a 2022 report that identified faucets, flooring, and wall finishes as the top three features that were integrated into master bathroom renovations. We offer a wide selection …
Upgrading your Bathroom on a Budget
The home improvement sector has grown in leaps and bounds in recent years, with the bathroom representing one of the more popular areas to address. Upgrading this section not only enhances the overall resale value of a residence but can also enhance the standards of living available to a household with the right approach. One of the primary factors that make individuals hesitant about undertaking such a venture is the potential costs involved. However, transforming this section doesn’t necessarily have to cost an arm and a leg. Several strategies individuals can adopt when looking to mitigate the finances involved with a Wellesley MA Bathroom Remodel include:
Consider Payment Options
Many established contractors offer several payment plans when dealing with extensive projects. This is an effective means of managing the financial burden incurred with such a venture, without having to lower standards when it comes to quality and scope. Taking the time to go through multiple options can help you identify services that meet your particular needs. Whereas financial options represent a good plan when working with a limited budget, it’s important to ensure that you don’t simply target the cheapest option on the market – as this can be detrimental to the levels of quality provided with the results. It’s worth noting that cheap can be expensive in the long run.
Target the Low Season
Scheduling your project for the off-peak seasons can be another effective way of lowering the overall budget involved. Most homeowners plan their remodel in fall and summer, as the weather is generally amicable during this period creating a better working environment. However, hosting these activities during the sunnier periods isn’t set in stone and if the work involved is generally in-house, then planning your upgrade between late fall and early winter is recommended. Wellesley MA Bathroom Remodel contractors will generally offer attractive discounts with their services in a bid to battle the dwindling demand in the market.
Focus on the Essentials
Another simple means of keeping costs down is by focusing on the primary essentials with your remodel. Dealing with areas that improve functionality before moving on to aesthetics is highly recommended when financed by a small budget. Ensuring everything is in working order is crucial to any potential success. Installing a vanity cabinet, for instance, can be a good way of killing two birds with one stone – as it improves organization solutions as well as enhancing the overall look of the space. Professionals recommend always starting with the plumbing, before moving on to ventilation and then lighting. The plumbing in your bathroom has to be flawless in terms of performance, as any fault in this sector can lead to a wide number of problems. Ventilation is also crucial because of the potentially high humidity levels in this area, while lighting plays a crucial part in enhancing the safety levels enjoyed by users. Committing a majority of the budget in these areas greatly enhances the success enjoyed with the results.
Hiring a professional contractor …
What to Consider with a Bathroom Remodel
The bathroom is arguably one of the most essential areas of a residence and is a popular place to start when considering a home improvement venture. There are numerous issues to consider when working in this section, with one of the major decisions being whether to handle activities as a DIY or hire a professional. Considering the complex operations involved with the plumbing network and the sensitivity of electric connections in wet areas, attaining the services of a professional is highly recommended when looking to ensure quality results.
Some other key elements you should consider with a Framingham MA Bathroom Remodel include:
Consider Logistics
Carefully planning the little details is not something many homeowners consider but can play a vital role in the overall project. Dealing with aspects such as creating a clear workspace, finding an alternative bathroom, and planning for the removal of debris are all important to the results of the project. Scheduling an appropriate time is also an essential part of logistics, especially when based in a community with neighbors close by. Planning for the more hectic activities to take place between mid-morning and early evening is recommended as it will ensure individuals don’t suffer a rude awakening as a result of sudden banging and clashing. You will also need to apply for several permits before you can commence the venture. The kind of permits required will depend on the particular activities involved with the project. The major categories include plumbing, electrical and structural permits.
Developing a Budget
Another crucial element to consider is the potential budget involved with the project. According to Forbes, the average cost of a bathroom renovation in the US stands at $10,000. Minimal upgrades can range from $2,500 while more extensive transformations can cost as much as $30,000. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) suggests that a bathroom remodel should be valued between 5% and 10% of a residence’s evaluation. The shower and the toilet represent two of the more expensive projects with a bathroom remodel. Forbes notes that a shower can cost between $500 and $5,000, while a toilet upgrade can cost between $80 and $5,000. Paint jobs represent one of the more affordable projects with an average cost between $30 and $60. Remodeling during late fall and early winter can be an effective way of mitigating overall expenses as these periods are viewed as the off-peak seasons in the remodeling industry, which can encourage contractors to lower their prices.
Focus on Functionality
It’s important to target functional upgrades when developing a Framingham MA Bathroom Remodel, with aesthetic transformations having minimal effects when underlying problems aren’t addressed. Anything dealing with plumbing should be a priority as it represents a major network in this particular environment. Leaky pipes, for example, will not only negatively affect your water pressure but can lead to structural and health hazards such as rot and molding. The longer such matters are left to fester, the more expensive it will be to address. Aspects such as lighting …
Identifying the Right Bathroom Contractor
The bathroom industry is a big part of the remodeling world, with millions of people considering such a venture at one point or another. Global Market Insights (GMI) report that the North American bathroom industry was valued at over $59 billion in 2020, with a 4% CAGR projected between 2021 and 2027. GMI reports that the driving forces behind this growth rate include the desire to improve functionality and the progressing upgrades in bathroom accessories. Individuals looking to conduct an extensive remodeling project on this part of their house are advised to hire a professional firm to handle the venture. Addressing intensive upgrades as a DIY can lead to significant losses due to amateur mistakes.
There are a multitude of home improvement services available in the market and identifying a suitable option is essential to developing an amicable working relationship. The candidate chosen should also be proficient in their provisions and fall within the range of one’s given budget. Some important issues to keep in mind when seeking an appropriate Newton MA Bathroom Remodeling contractor include:
Ask for Input on your Plans
It’s essential to ensure that you take your time when browsing through available services before settling on a final decision. Highlighting three final candidates from the general list is recommended when looking to save time, as in-depth interviews for 10 or more potential options aren’t always practical. Once these finalists have been selected, conducting an initial phone interview can represent the next step. Talking about the activities and expectations involved, as well as highlighting any potential complications is recommended when discussing the project. Requesting the input of the contractors regarding your plans is a great way to determine whether you are on the same page with the candidate. The level of enthusiasm projected with any potential response can be a good way of gauging the potential commitment of the contractor.
Review Previous Projects
Taking the time to go through previous projects completed by the final candidates is an effective means of identifying a qualified alternative. Most established contractors will have a portfolio of recent projects available on their website. The projects perused should be related to the particular venture one has in mind. A bathroom tile installation might be impressive, for instance, but it doesn’t serve as proof that one can replace a shower cubicle with a bathtub. The closer the previous work is to the current project, the higher the levels of capability portrayed. Logging onto online review platforms such as Yelp is another simple way of investigating the capabilities of a particular candidate. Whereas testimonials published by a Needham MA Remodelling firm will only reflect positively on their experience, public review platforms can sometimes offer a more honest source of credibility.
Ensure a Valid License
The contractor a homeowner chooses should be legally licensed by the appropriate authorities. Licensed firms are required to follow certain guidelines when it comes to the operations of their business, ensuring quality services. It’s also worth noting that there is a …
