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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Remodel of the Week: Luxurious Modern Mediterranean Style Coastal Home
A vacation retreat in Pismo Beach, California was recently remodeled to the vision of the ultimate beachside retirement home using modern Mediterranean style to naturally brighten up the previously dark and dimly-lit house. Tackling the whole house with new paints, materials and detailing transformed the home into the ultimate coastal paradise. Substituting lighter-colored cabinetry in place of the red-stained wood and changing the dark countertops to white made the most of the decision to more light enter in through the bigger windows near the kitchen. The entrance and living room…
Read MoreContractor insights into industry trends
Findings from the Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI) show that contractor activity has held steady throughout Q2 despite market growth softening. Current concerns include tariff and labor impact, but the outdoor materials market and demand for energy-efficient projects saw gains higher than anticipated. With data pointing to an increase in home improvement projects under $5k and a decrease in projects over $100k, the findings suggest homeowners are prioritizing inexpensive summer projects that take advantage of sunny weather or optimize efficiency in expecting the heat wave. Read More
Read MoreHome Improvement Originations Surge Despite Weak Outlook
Although suffering a dip from the previous quarter, home improvement loan originations have increased over 35% year-over-year to over $3.5 billion, signaling a strong demand for home remodeling and renovations. Datasets from the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University and the National Association of Homebuilders point to signs that remodeling activity is softening, but the increase in home improvement loan originations demonstrates that remodeling activity fares well, especially as many are likely to finance through home-equity lines of credit. Remodelers are mostly positive while some see activity slowing…
Read MoreThe Process of an Award-Winning Bathroom Remodel
The team at Bath Tune-Up in McKinney, Texas, shared their process on their Chrysalis Award winning bathroom remodel. The budget of the remodel was a modest $39,000 and the team kept it within the original footprint of the room. They adressed client concerns about aging in place and added accessibility features without sacrificing contemporary design elements. The bathroom remodel prioritized safety, an addition of a foldable bench and accessibility bars allows for seamless and easy movement regardless of age. This was complemented by stunning tile-work and fixture selection to make…
Read MoreSix Kitchen Styles Designers are Tired of Seeing
Expert interior designers from multiple firms have given their take on kitchen styles they think are outdated and not worth doing anymore. With simpler, lighter kitchens being what’s in style right now, older designs like the cherry wood cabinetry plus dark granite countertop combo or overly ornate Tuscan luxury leave the room feeling dark and closed off. However, going all white is another end of the extreme the design experts caution against, instead they encourage nuanced comfort and natural brightness. Read More
Read MoreRemodeling to a Chef’s Kitchen in a Residential Home
Remodeling a residential kitchen to restaurant grade requires expertise and attention to detail. Designers Sharon L. Sherman, ASID, founder and owner of Thyme & Place Design alongside Natalie Carr and Aaron Golden, design consultants for Sea Pointe Design & Remodel discuss the essentials for a transformation. Their expert opinions emphasized the need for high-performance appliances, fluid design for both cooking and entertaining and thoughtful lighting and fixtures. Personalizing to a client’s lifestyle and habits play a large role in the remodel like a speed ovens in favor of a traditional microwave…
Read MoreHow Remodelers Can Utilize Digital Marketing
Traditional marketing for remodelers is not as effective as it was pre-internet and social media, utilizing digital marketing is the key to reaching clients. Remodelers with a steady client base may think their marketing is efficient, however tapping into digital marketing can increase their visibility and profits. There are many ways to improve your digital marketing like having an updated and easy to navigate website, advertising through social media and email marketing.The use of targeting ads can also define and reach different groups within your audience like a whole custom…
Read More2025 Home Design Trend: Modern Organic
The Modern Organic design trend creates an elegant blend of rustic charm with modern minimalism. This fusion produces a sleek mixture of old-school luxury and contemporary beauty through classic wood finishes and rich contrasts that make the room pop. The Modern Organic trend maximizes comfort by incorporating a soft feel that utilizes natural lighting and subtle, yet classy accents of wood and metal, resulting in this trend providing timeless value. Read More
Read MoreA Complete Guide to Building Exteriors Using Cladding
Cladding acts as a vital layer that shields the framework like a windbreaker to maintain energy efficiency through better insulation and protect against weather conditions with durable materials. Different types of cladding suit different needs based on geographic location and aesthetic preference, but some common applications of materials are metal, wood and vinyl cladding. Depending on climate, budget or maintenance goals, using the right cladding can ensure a build or remodel retains lasting value long after the project is complete. Read More
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