A modern coastal bathroom blends the calming essence of the shoreline with timeless design, creating a space that balances function, style and comfort. Central to this look are light and airy color palettes with ocean-inspired blues, sandy neutrals and natural wood tones, paired with durable finishes like marble, quartz and stone. The use of woven textures, brass hardware and abundant natural light further enhances the beach-house atmosphere, while spa-like features such as soaking tubs or walk-in showers bring everyday luxury into the home. Beyond aesthetics, modern coastal bathroom design focuses…
Read MoreMonth: September 2025
Permitting 101: Tips to Keep Projects Compliant and On Schedule
Those seeking to get into design/build work would be wise to gain a deep understanding of the nuance behind the permit process. Maintaining compliance with regulation is key to keeping projects on schedule, so planning for permitting ahead of time prevents any later hiccups. Structural projects that bear any sort of weight tend to be subject to a specific permit, such as pools and decks. Similarly, overhead structures that carry weight above where a human may occupy space are also susceptible to permits, like pergolas and rooftops. Accounting for permitting…
Read MoreHow Technology is Reshaping Home Renovation in 2025 and Beyond
Home renovation is becoming increasingly influenced by technology, demonstrating a shift towards modernity and greater personalization. Four major points have been identified that are tied to how AI is changing the remodeling industry. Artificial Intelligence (AI) The growth of AI as a tool is nothing new, and all industries are seeking ways to incorporate it into their practices. Designers and contractors are adopting AI to aid with layout solutions, assist with materials selections and speed up project timelines. Using AI helps remodelers to stay within budget and ahead of schedule,…
Read MoreSafe and Smart Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Certification Program
The National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association (NLBMDA) is offering an exclusive discount on a special program. The Safe & Smart Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Certification Program by J.J. Keller & Associates is specially available to NLBMDA members. The ELDT Certification Program allows trainers the flexibility and knowledge to optimize driver training to prevent accidents and reduce liability. The Certification Program includes preparation for online courses, classroom instruction, range and road experience to be provided to trainees. Evaluation at the end of the program gives advice to trainers on…
Read MoreTackling Tiny Lots: Designing with Installation and Maintenance in Mind
In order for a landscaping remodel to be successful in accordance with the homeowner’s wishes, it must be feasible. Installing and maintaining renovation projects in small lots require careful consideration of what is practical given the size constraints. Therefore, they require a bit of creativity when it comes to working through the design goals. To strike a balance between what the homeowner wants and what is practical, scaling down is often a good compromise. Rather than completely ruling out a feature that is too big, considering a smaller feature that…
Read MoreHomeowners may look to HELOC
While many people are expecting Federal Reserve cuts, home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are expected to follow the reserve more closely and increase renovations and improvements. Home Depot and Lowe’s analysts estimate there is roughly $50 billion in pent-up demand for home improvement work. These are projects that homeowners have put aside while borrowing costs stayed high across loans and materials. Lower HELOC rates could provide homeowners with the funds to funnel directly into their new kitchens, bathrooms or addictions. This comes at a time where the new housing market is…
Read MoreModern Design Trends Influence Home Remodeling Service Industry
Understanding homeowner preferences is crucial to thriving as a contractor, as is understanding that homeowners are bound to renovate. By leaning into the homeowner, contractors can position themselves to capitalize on the remodel market. The New Jersey home remodel market, for example, is seeing a rise in homeowners desiring modernity in their homes, while still prioritizing comfortable livability. Being able to enter the remodel market and updating homes with contemporary finishes gives homeowners exactly what they want. While some trends go away, design experts predict certain trends will continue to…
Read MoreSeven Key Principles for Universal Design
Universal design is attained when a home is built, crafted or remodeled in a way that makes function accessible to for all inhabitants regardless of age or condition. As a section of the remodel market expected to expand, there are seven important ways that apply to a home exhibiting universal design. 1. Equitable Use Design that accommodates everyone from aging grandparents to children with limited mobility. 2. Flexibility in Use Accounting for a wide variety and range of usage, whether tall or short. 3. Simple and Intuitive Use…
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