Plaster from the 15th century with 21st century appeal

Plaster from the 15th century with 21st century appeal Just say it, “What the heck is Venetian plaster?” I knew you wanted to ask, because I was thinking the same thing. Venetian plaster is a technique for applying plaster not a type of plaster. Venetian plaster is a technique used to wall, ceilings, raised for curved surfaces to give it heightened stucco like appearance. This method of application was preferred by the craftsman of the 15th century in Venice, Italy, hence its name.

The primary method for applying Venetian plaster to a wall involves using a trowel, putty knife, or spatula to apply the plaster in thin, successive layers that are allowed to individually dry before the next layer is added. The initial layers need to be thinner and smoother than later layers so that the plaster will adhere to the wall effectively over time. As additional layers of Venetian plaster are applied, the objective is not to create a smooth surface, but to work patterns and textures into the plaster that are maintained after it has dried. A final thin layer of Venetian plaster is applied to seal the surface imperfections, and, after this has dried, the surface is usually lightly sanded to polish it and remove any imperfections that could lead to chipping or cracking. The end result is a semi-gloss marbleizing effect where the plaster has subtle color and texture variations that change with lighting and different angles of view.

As you read Venetian plaster takes time and a lot of patience; better to leave it to the professionals. But be careful: Though many companies currently market products claiming to be Venetian Plaster, few really are. Most are simply thick acrylic paints with silicates that mimic marble if applied in thin layers and burnished. Though having a similar appearance and finish to natural plasters, there are some key differences and the finish will not be the same. The great thing about Venetian plaster is the fact that it can be purchased Tinted or you can paint over the plaster.

Venetian plaster adds a classic finish to your home; any room can get the look of Italian elegance. Contact Spazio LA today for a quote on your home remodel or Venetian Plaster project.

10 of the Best DIY Projects for under $50

10 Best DIY projects for under $50 There is nothing better than great DIY projects for the house. Here are a few of the best DIY projects for under $50.

1. DIY Macramé Curtain.  This easy curtain can be made with under $50 material and only a few hours’ time. This is perfect for sprucing up a closet that may be lacking a door, or a groovy entry way into a room.  Check out A Beautiful Mess for full instructions and tips on this Bohemian DIY Home décor.

http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2014/02/make-your-own-macrame-curtain.html

2. Chevron Lamp Makeover. Got an ugly lamp shade? There is nothing a little tape and paint can’t fix. Take any old lamp shade and add paint for a new updated look. Try using tape as a guide for chevron stripes or design. Coco 29 did a great yellow chevron rendition.

http://www.coco29.com/diy-home-decor-ideas-on-a-budget/

3. DIY Magnetic Knife Board. This space saver is great for those small kitchens that do not have ample counter space. By creating your very own magnetic knife board you get those knifes off the counter, and out of the reach of little hands. DIY Magnetic Knife Boards can be mounted anywhere, high or low, and can be tailored to any décor style.

http://hobbylesson.com/diy-magnetic-board-for-knife-with-tutorial/

4. DIY Closet Kit. I don’t know many people whom were born with the ability to keep their closet organized, but this DIY Closet Kit is perfect at helping those, and especially if you have kids. Find socks and underwear in little time, and possible even get rid of your old dresser that is taking up space. I personally love this idea and want one in the kids’ bedroom. Premade closet kits can cost you anywhere from $200+ dollars, make this one for $50.

http://www.hometalk.com/585492/diy-closet-kit-for-under-50

5. Concrete DIY Fire Pit. Perfect for those nights where a bon fire just is the right thing to do. The DIY Concrete Fire Pit can be made in only a few hours, and is ready to use when you are. Its sleek look will have every one asking where they can purchase one for themselves.

http://www.manmadediy.com/users/chris/posts/2618-how-to-make-a-diy-modern-concrete-fire-pit-from-scratch

6. Farmhouse Coffee Table DIY. Caution this table requires some pretty awesome power tools! It’s cool what a few scrap pieces of wood and some wheels can do for your living room. You can even skip the wheels if you have young kids that would turn this table into a sled, with or without the wheels it would make a great DIY Coffee Table.

http://www.shanty-2-chic.com/2013/03/coffee-table-diy.html

7. Staircase DIY Update. Get rid of the old carpeted staircase and in with the new sleek look. Demo, stain and paint, and you have a whole new house. Ok, you don’t have a whole new house, but you created a grand staircase with little effort.

http://inmyownstyle.com/2011/01/my-foyer-staircase-reveal.html

8. DIY Industrial Tables. Sometimes time is money. In this case this day project may not be for you, but it looks so cool. You can make end tables, or even a coffee table to match. This is for those whom love exposed brick and HVAC ducts, the Industrial lovers table this is.

http://www.lowes.com/creative-ideas/other-areas/industrial-side-tables/project?cm_mmc=sm_pi-_-lci-_-project-_-industrialsidetables

9. DIY Wine Rack. This is super chic and adds a spark to any décor. The best part of this is DIY Wine Rack project is the fact that it looks expensive. Don’t purchase one from the store, build your own and have something to be proud of in your kitchen.

http://www.lowes.com/creative-ideas/kitchen-and-dining/fine-lines-wine-rack/project?cm_mmc=sm_pi-_-lci-_-project-_-finelineswinerack

10. Kids Room DIY Crate Seats. You can find these plastic baskets in most stores, and kids usually use them to stand on anyways. Why not turn them into cute seats for the kids room, heck possibly even the living room. Crates, foam, fabric and wood – there you have DIY Crate Seats.

http://tupelohoneycaro.blogspot.com/2011/08/crate-seats-my-way.html

We love to see your completed DIY remodel projects. Comment with your best DIY to date and pictures.

Size has nothing to do with luxury!

Luxury isn’t just a large home It takes more these days than just a large home, to define the true meaning of luxury.  And Luxury homes are popping up all over the Los Angeles remodel scene. The word luxury brings to mind plenty of conveniences such as, pools, bathrooms with built in towel warmers, in-home gyms that include the newest equipment, backyard tennis courts, game rooms, and fully-stocked kitchens with warming drawers and wine cellars? But what are the items that luxury home buyers want the most?  What is a luxury homebuyer looking for when shopping for their new abode? How can you make your home as luxurious as possible during your next remodel?

Here are the top luxuries people are looking for to ensure you aren’t adding amenities that no one is looking at.

A home theater is great, but luxury home buyers are looking for more than just a room with a large screen and comfy seats. You will need to step it up a notch and get yourself an IMAX home theater if you want to wow the crowd, the luxury crowd that is. Watching Hollywood block busters from the comfort of your home is now possible, with a hefty price tag that is. IMAX will bring the best theater to your door for $3 million dollars and change. If this isn’t something you think you have prepared in your remodel budget, that’s ok, wait a few years and the price may decrease. Until then we can continue to shell out big bucks for the movie theater or wait until it shows up at your local Redbox.

Speaking about technology, the luxury amenity next on our list is a home that is fully managed, monitored and controlled by a smart phone or tablet. Hence the name: “smart home.” Control the temperature, light setting, security system, door and window locks, sound system, t.v’s, and more, with the touch of one button from where ever you are. The digital world is taking over and people want technology improved homes. Think about technology and innovations before you start your next luxury project. Luxury is all about making life easier, better and being able to do things faster. Such luxury means you do not have to open or close your curtains. That’s right; homes are becoming equipped with motorized blackout curtains or shades. Why? Because this is what home owners think will make their life easier. I guess it seems nice to have your curtains set to close or open at a certain time, or pressing a button to close the shades when the afternoon glare is obscuring your t.v show rather than getting up to do it yourself. Have your smart phone control your curtains too while you are at it.

To make your home feel more luxurious, Shelley Little of Freshhome.com says ,”Skim through design magazines and look at all the wonderful nooks and crannies that they portray. You will notice that when a room is well-designed, everything has a home and a purpose. There is no clutter in a hotel or well-organized room.” Lastly she notes, “The entryway is the first and last thing that (people) see. Make it one that leaves a lavish impact. “

So you have guessed it, luxury comes with a cost. Keep in mind that these are the top luxury amenities, but there are thousands that are affordable and worth the renovation.

Plan a kid’s bedroom overhaul they will love!

Plan a great kid’s bedroom overhaul Planning a room overhaul for your kids is one task that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Color, design, uses and so much more thought go into this room. Master bedroom design can be easy, as an adult’s likes don’t change as often as children and most of us are done growing. Therefore a child’s room needs more planning before any final decisions are made.

Before you begin you should make a list off all the possible design elements that should be incorporated.

1. Is this room going to be shared? What are the ages of the children?

2. Will this room be used as a guest room later on? Do you plan to transition a younger child to this room in the years to come?

3. Color pallets? Can you change the style easy with the color you are going for?

4. Size of bed/beds? Do you plan on building custom bunkbeds?

5. Additional design: desk, book shelves, video game area, etc?

6. Child’s likes and dislikes? Special requests or Ideas for design and décor?

Once you have this list figured out you can start thinking about your design and décor plan for this bedroom overhaul.

Study Areas:

Study areas are most successful if they focus the mind by filtering out distractions.  A desk is great up against a wall (or room divider) so that there's somewhere for shelves and maybe a white board.  You can DIY a room divider with bookshelves for a fast way to create a transition from one space into another. If you can create a study alcove so that the desk has a kind of sheltered feeling with its own light source that would be a great place to study.

When you're playing with bedroom layouts don't forget to include a chair with the desk - make sure there's space for it and that it doesn't get in the way of any door swings.

Rearrange the rooms:

Kids' bedroom design space requirements can often rival those of an adult couple, particularly if the kids are sharing.  You can’t create one room for multiple children when you have only so little square feet to work with.

Sometimes it’s worth considering giving your kids the master bedroom. If there’s another bedroom that can accommodate a double bed and there’s a bathroom nearby why not use that? Especially if you could add an extra door to make those rooms more private.  Maybe there’s another small bedroom that you could use for a dressing room.  Combining other small bedrooms and the family bathroom might turn out to be a great master suite!

Playing areas:

Now depending on the age of the child playing can mean very different things.  It might mean Hot wheels or dolls houses.  Getting older it might mean Lego or Miss World. Then at the tween and tween stage there might be hobbies to accommodate.  Whatever the age there's often other children involved be it play dates or more like a social club!

We will leave you with a few extra tips:

1. Plan for a few years ahead.

2. Plan for each of the kids bedroom activities.

3. Use these kids’ bedroom design ideas to create as much space as possible.

Reasons Why a Small Kitchen is Now an Advantage.

The truth about a small kitchen is that it will not be the jack of all trades. You will have to give up the idea of doing homework here, paying bills here, and recipe searching in your small kitchen. The design goal for your small kitchen must be to achieve an effective small kitchen, not multipurpose space. There is nothing wrong with a kitchen that is just that, a kitchen. The design factor is a lot tougher already when you have to fit a functioning kitchen into a small space, but small changes can make it even better than a large kitchen.  When designing a small kitchen think of: size, color, light and function.

So focus first on function, making sure you have the appliances and work areas you need. You may be able to save a bit of space by using scaled-down or innovative appliances, including refrigerator and freezer drawers and pint-sized microwaves, stoves (some with just two burners) and single sinks. The function is there, without all the square footage! If workspace is at a premium, consider a small-scale island or a counter-topped cart that can be rolled away into a closet when not in use. Now just because you need to really hone in on function of your small kitchen does not mean you have to lose any space to style. The color of walls, appliances, and counter tops, bar stools, and backsplash can change the mood of your pint sized kitchen. Going with more pale colors can help with light, but don’t be afraid to go bold and add color and mix your patterns. Using the same color and style of fixtures and cabinet knobs can unify a design when you are using different textures and patterns in your small kitchen.

Tiny kitchens can feel claustrophobic if there are upper cabinets towering over you in such a small space. Most of the time cooks can’t even reach those upper cabinets anyways, and in a small kitchen there isn’t much room for a stool or ladder. Skip the excessive cabinets and opt for a more spacious approach with open shelves. You can also use magnetic knife strips, pot racks and give your kitchen a designer way to show off your favorite dish sets and even artwork. And like any other room, your small kitchen needs great lighting that you can use for cooking and for atmosphere. Fluorescent lighting, which casts a bluish light impacting the colorization of objects in the room, including the food, is frequently found in kitchens. To counteract it, consider hanging pendant lights that bathe your eating area in a more appetizing color.

Designer Tip: Try using glass doors from the kitchen into the next room or to the outside, this will increase light in the kitchen and also give the illusion of more space.

Don’t let small spaces give you design block. No matter a small galley kitchen or small apartment kitchen – you can make your design amazing if you trim the fat and keep your design neat.

Practical Remodeling Tips That Make your kitchen More Functional

Practical Kitchen Remodeling Tips That Make the Space More Functional  

The kitchen is an important space in your house. It is more than just a cooking place with gorgeous cabinets. If you plan to remodel your kitchen, you want to make it spacious, adoring, and functional. A Los Angeles remodeling company may help you spruce up the look and feel of your kitchen while also making it functional and easy to live and work in. You may want to use the below tips when remodeling the kitchen:

Let the walkways be wide

The paths in the kitchen should allow easy movement and reach of appliances, working surfaces, and other items in the room. Having paths that are at least 36 inches in width ensures that you can move from one point to another. In case of the cooking zone, you can have the paths designed to be 42 inches or something close to that for a one-cook space. If the cooking zone needs to accommodate two cooks, then a 48-inch-wide path is more appropriate.

Minimize steps you take in kitchen

When working in the kitchen, you will need easy access of items. So, think about where and how you will use the items. You may want to store breakfast foods and utensils close to the breakfast table. The dishware and flatware should be located near the dishwashing machine to ensure ease of unloading. Again, you can have plastic containers and wraps kept in a suitable spot close to the work surface to make it easy when wrapping leftovers.

Keep the traffic in the right place

There are other people who will occasionally enter the kitchen, for example, children. When designing your kitchen, ensure it is kid-friendly. You may want to keep your cooktop away from traffic areas to prevent kids from catching handles, something that may result in unwanted spills over the surfaces. The refrigerator should also be accessible by those who cook and clean up the dishes as well as by other people.

Make room for landing space

In designing your kitchen, you may want to allow 15 inches of landing space on sides of refrigerator and cooktop. The same may apply for microwave because you need space to use when working with this appliance. This way, you don’t have to make too many steps trying to reach out for items you are using.

Keep away from the corners

You may think that the corners can make an additional storage space in your kitchen. However, when you plan the design of your kitchen, stay clear of the corners. You should allow sufficient door clearance and swinging. Don’t place appliances on the corners and ensure the doors aren’t banging into one another if they are opened at the same time.

The way you design your kitchen can make or break your experience when working in this space. Using the above kitchen design tips can make your space functional and minimize the amount of time and effort you make when working in the area. In your next kitchen remodeling project, you can incorporate these tips to make sure you and your family enjoy working in the kitchen.

Budgeting Your Remodel: What You Need to Consider

Budgeting Your Remodel: What You Need to Consider During the spring and summer months, many home owners decide its times for a remodel. Starting a remodel is a big decision as it can shut down a portion of your home for several days, weeks or even months. There is much to consider when beginning a remodel, including budgeting. Knowing the proper way to budget will help you stay on task as well as not go overboard with the changes to your home. Read on for top tips on how to budget your remodel and how to stay on track, avoiding spending more than you bargained for.

Consider Every Element

To begin, you will need to consider every element of the remodel. Let’s say that you have decided to remodel your bathroom. You are going for a complete overhaul. So, you will need drywall, new toilet, bathtub, faucets, vanity, light fixtures, etc. You will need to make a list of every item that you will be replacing and then go price out these items. This will give you an idea of material cost.

You will also need to consider if you will be using the services of a Los Angeles remodeling company or if you will be doing the project yourself. Hiring a company will have an added cost but can be well worth the price as you do not have to do the work yourself, the timeline is much shorter and you know there will be no mistakes in the process of the remodel. Have a company come out and price the job so you can have an idea as to how much the project will cost.

Once you have an idea of how much the project will cost see if you can cover the price. If not, take a little more time to save money so you do not end up charging the project on credit cards or taking out a loan.

Contingency Plan

It is always smart to plan on a contingency plan. With remodels, you never know what might be hiding behind the walls or for this instance, behind the tub. Have a little money set aside in case an unexpected need arises. In bathroom remodels, sometimes there is water damage or the need for re-piping. By having a contingency plan, you have money set aside that can pay for such needs, helping you to stay on budget. It is good to have at least 10 to 20 percent of your overall budget set aside as a contingency plan. This gives you a nice cushion if problems arise during the project.

Overall, if you plan out your remodeling project, you will be able to stay on task and on budget. Without proper planning, you can end up spending more money than you bargained for which can lead to further problems. You will also be able to stay on time with the completion of the project, able to enjoy your new space in no time. Plan accordingly and you will have a completed new space in your home that was finished on time and maybe even under budget!

Affordable Bathroom Remodel Design Ideas for Your Home

Affordable Bathroom Remodel Design Ideas for Your Home When it comes to bathroom remodeling, there is so much that you can do that costs very little. With simple changes, you can make your bathroom into a brand new space, an oasis where you can relax and unwind at the end of the day. Take one or more of the suggestions below and put them to work in your bathroom to have a nice place to relax as you finish the work day.

Paint

Paint can go a long way and is something you can do to change the look of the room for very little money. By simply taking a new paint color and applying it to your walls, you have a fresh color scheme that can be relaxing or bold, whatever you like! Find a color that speaks to you and apply it to your bathroom walls. Add new accent pieces in a varying color for a unique look.

Decorative Touches

If your bathroom is painted in a neutral tone, you can simply purchase new decorative touches to change the look of the space. A new shower curtain, window treatments and other décor items are affordable to purchase and when you go with a completely new color scheme, the bathroom will take on an entirely new look for very little money. By making these simple changes, it will seem like you have spent a lot of money but you really only did a few minor changes to get the new look.

Lighting

Another great way to continue with bathroom remodeling is to change out the light fixtures of the space. Depending on how large your bathroom is or how many bathrooms you have in your home, you may need to change out several fixtures. Many older homes have outdate lighting that once replaced, breathes life back into the space. If you lack lighting experience, hire a Los Angeles remodeling contractor to do the job for you. After the new light fixtures have been added, you will be surprised at how different the space looks and feels.

Full Remodel

If you have the time and money, it can be worth the effort to consider a full bathroom remodel. By changing out old vanities and sinks, showers and tubs as well as lighting and décor, you can have a completely new bathroom with a new look and feel. This of course will be a great deal of work and you will need some help. Trying to tackle a full remodel with little to no experience can lead to trouble. By hiring a Los Angeles remodeling company, you will be able to have a team on hand who know just what to do and can bring new life to your bathroom space.

Overall, any change you do to the bathroom will help you to have a new space to enjoy in your home. Start with simple changes and work your way up to major remodeling projects in order to completely redo the space and enjoy a new bathroom in your home.

Exterior Design Ideas: How to Update Your Home on a Budget

Exterior Design Ideas: How to Update Your Home on a Budget

With summer quickly approaching, many home owners are looking outdoors to see how the exterior of the home can be updated. With simple changes and a little work, the outdoors can become a new area in which you can enjoy the lovely summer season. From fire pits and water fountains to backyard BBQs and landscaping, there are many ways to update your home for outdoor enjoyment. Read on to see how you can update the exterior on a budget.

Fire Pit

One of the most popular ways to add an outdoor feature to the home today is with a fire pit. A fire pit adds character as well as an area where you can relax and unwind at the end of the day. Fire pits can be created with materials such as stones and pavers or already constructed from iron material. Take a look at your backyard and see how you might could integrate a fire pit into your landscaping. Perhaps you have a small space where a paver patio could be created with a fire pit at the center. Consult with a Los Angeles remodeling contractor to find out how you can add a fire pit to your home.

Landscaping

Is the exterior of your home looking a little rough? Is landscaping lacking in appeal or greenery? Sometimes adding a little mulch and greenery to the space will help the exterior of your home looks it’s very best once again. Stand in front of your home and take a look at what could be changed. Sometimes, just cutting back bushes and planting a few flowers makes the front of your home look so much better. Think of small changes you could make that will breathe new life into the first impression of your home.

Adding a Water Feature

Another great way to create a relaxing space within your exterior is to add a water feature. This could be as small as a water fountain or a big as a swimming pool. All will be dependent on how much room you have to make any changes. Add a water fountain the front of your home for curb appeal. Add a swimming pool to the backyard for fun in the summer time along with creating a gathering spot for family and friends.

Adding a swimming pool is not so budget-friendly but a great option if you have the space and the money to do so. Consulting with a Los Angeles remodeling contractor will help you to see just how much such a job would require as well as timeline for completion. Once you see the total cost for such a project, you might find that it is something you can afford and wish to see added to your home.

Overall, you will find there are many ways in which you can update the exterior of the home to meet your backyard needs. Do a little sprucing up on your home or hire the professionals to handle big projects that will completely change the look and feel of your space.

Kitchen Cabinet Trends for Your Next Home Remodel

Kitchen Cabinet Trends for Your Next Home Remodel So, you have decided to remodel your kitchen, how exciting! Remodeling a kitchen takes a great deal of work but the design stage can be quite fun! There are so many trends available today that can make your kitchen a modern space that shines with high design and visual appeal. If your kitchen is majorly outdated, take time to find out more about these trends so you can update your kitchen to a stylish space that will be enjoyed for many years to come.

Two-Tone Kitchen

A big trend right now for kitchen spaces is two-tone coloring. For many home owners, kitchen cabinets are being installed with one color for the upper cabinets and another color for the lowers. White is a common color used for the upper cabinets while a gray or even bright blue can be used for the bottoms to bring a bit of color to the space. Depending on your individual style, you might want to go with a neutral tone for the bottom cabinets such as gray or black. But if you are feeling bold, you can add a pop of color with the lowers for a unique look.

Kitchen Island

A great way to make your kitchen stand out is to go with an unusual island. With kitchen islands today, the trend is to take a bright color or unique element and use it on the island, keeping your cabinets traditional. Kitchen islands can be painted a bright color or even be constructed of reclaimed wood for a unique element. Your Los Angeles remodeling contractor will be able to assist you with ideas for a unique kitchen island so your kitchen stands out. As far as countertops for the island are concerned, the popular trend is a waterfall edge. In the past, the countertop would be simply placed on the top of the island. With the waterfall edge, the material goes down the side of the island for a unique look.

Hardware

Another way to create a unique kitchen with your remodel is to consider the hardware for your cabinets. Hardware comes in all shapes and sizes these days with uniquely shaped pieces, varying materials and colors. While you may decide to go with a standard kitchen cabinet design, you can bring in color or a unique style element by being bold with your hardware. Try a few different styles to see what works best with the space as well as the look you are going for.

Be Open to New Ideas

For many home owners, it can be hard to visualize ideas provided to you by your contractor. Try to think about how the plans will look in your space or have the contractor show you images that are similar to their design plans. By having an idea in your head as to what the space will look like, you will be better able to make a decision as to what you want to see happen with your kitchen remodel!

Kitchen Remodeling: Where do I Start?

Kitchen Remodeling: Where do I Start? If you are a home owner and considering a kitchen remodel, it can be difficult to know where to start. Should you remodel the entire kitchen at once, work on a few affordable areas or do a little bit at a time? For your first ever remodel, it can be beneficial to work with a Los Angeles remodeling company in order to see what all is involved, an estimate for the job as well as timeline. These factors will vary depending on what you plan on doing to your kitchen. Learn how to get started below.

Tour Your Kitchen

To begin, you need to decide what you want to change. Start by taking a tour of the kitchen. Look around. What do you not like about the space? Is it simply the flooring and paint color? Or perhaps you are not satisfied with the cabinet wood, light fixtures and decorative elements. Whatever the case may be, make a list. Write down what you wish to change so you know what to price out and if you will be in need of a contractor of if you can do the work yourself.

Budget

Next, you will need to consider your budget. Do you have a small budget or a nice chunk of change set aside to spend on the remodeling project? You will need to compare pricing on materials and check to see if you have enough to do the entire project or if you should work in stages. In most cases, it is best to do the full remodel at one time. If you do not have enough money in the budget, take time to save and then complete the remodel all at one time. This will save time and money as well as help you to have a completely new kitchen to enjoy.

Choose Your Materials

Once you have decided on what you wish to change in the kitchen and have a budget set, you can work with a contractor to choose materials for your kitchen. Be sure to try and stick to your budget on each section of the remodel of you may have to make changes to the plans or choose different material types such as cabinets or flooring in order to make the budget work.

A contractor will be able to provide you with a variety of materials to choose from when it comes to flooring, cabinets, countertops, light fixtures, etc. You can go the affordable route in every area and upgrade certain items such as countertops and cabinets as you will be using these features the most and they are what gives the kitchen value.

Overall, it is recommended that you work with a contractor when it comes to any kitchen remodel. You want to have someone on your side who can provide you with insight to your project needs and wants as well as has the know-how to complete the remodel on time and on budget. By working with professionals, you can rest easy knowing that your remodeling plans are in good hands.

5 Benefits of Adding a Fire Pit to Your Backyard

5 Benefits of Adding a Fire Pit to Your Backyard A backyard fire pit is something that can offer both many years of enjoyment for your family, and a lovely living space to your yard when entertaining. Enlisting a Los Angeles remodeling company to help you figure out the best placement, materials and style for your backyard fire pit can take a lot of the guesswork out of the process. Below are 5 benefits of adding a fire pit to your backyard. Enjoy the Warm Season Longer The combination of warmth and light from a backyard fire pit allows for outdoor enjoyment even when the air is a little chilly. In fact, outdoor gas fire pits produce even more heat than wood burning stoves. Enjoy the patio or yard later into the fall or earlier in the spring by bundling up around the fire and relaxing with family and friends. You may even be able to enjoy the outdoor warmth of this space well into winter, depending on where you live.

Conversation Starter Many of us have great memories of sitting around the fire while camping or at the beach, and telling stories, roasting s’mores and enjoying beverages. A backyard fire pit allows for these memorable experiences at home, serving as a focal point for social gatherings and parties. The ability to relax into the evening in comfort is a natural catalyst for enjoyable conversation.

Increase Your Property’s Market Value Stone outdoor fire pits enhance existing space by adding visual aesthetic to your property, as well as general appeal. They open an outdoor space for year-round use and are a consistently popular outdoor feature among buyers. In fact, you’d be hard pressed to find someone who doesn’t get excited about the idea of their very own backyard fire pit. This is a wonderful way to increase your home’s market value.

Avoid Smoke The normal downfall to a campfire or beach bonfire? Smoke! It irritates eyes, nostrils and can cause health issues in airways. And while many people love the nostalgic scent, it tends to linger in hair, clothing, and other materials. Outdoor fire pits can easily use natural or propane gas, which doesn’t emit the same heavy smoke we’re all used to.

Low Maintenance Natural gas or propane fire pits offer style and heat with very little upkeep. As opposed to wood burning stoves or fire pits, natural gas or propane fire pits do not require you to chop or provide wood. They do not attract insects in the same way wood burning fire pits do, and do not require the same level of constant cleaning around the area. Natural gas fire pits never run out of gas as they rely on an installed gas line; talk to your Los Angeles remodeling contractor about whether your backyard offers an effortless way to install a natural gas line.

If you’re thinking of installing a backyard fire pit, be sure to call on professionals to help you sort out the options. There are plenty of styles to choose from to complement your home’s backyard and allow you to comfortably start enjoying the outdoors a little more.

Tricky ways to save on your kitchen remodel

Tricky ways to save money on your kitchen remodel Kitchen design and planning is a daunting task. We often know the look we want, but many times our budgets aren't as large as our wish lists are long. But that doesn't mean we can't have a remarkable kitchen remodel— we just have to get smart. Reach into the designer inspired bag of tricks for savvy ways to get full-on style with a much smaller price tag. Get the kitchen you have always wanted without going broke.

(Photo Credit - Houzz)

#1 Tile

Problem is you found the most amazing tile for your kitchen backsplash and its way over your budget. One tricky way to save money on your kitchen remodel is to use that amazing tile, as an accent to another complimentary, lower priced tile. This way you are getting to save money while still going with your desired style. Try using the expensive tile in a pattern above your range or as a trim to your backsplash. When is a backsplash not just a backsplash? With a little attention to detail, you can take your backsplash from a run-of-the-mill design feature to the focal point of the whole room.

#2 Lighting

Illumination is key to adorning interior spaces. Proper kitchen design necessitates well-lit areas to allow you to conveniently work in the kitchen. As a result, ample natural light inside the kitchen space is indispensable. Designer lighting can be expensive, and sometimes the splurge is not feasible. Try looking for faux luxe lighting or resale shops; you can generally find affordable lighting that looks just like designer décor and no one will know. Looking for décor steals? Try World Market and Home Goods.

#3 Flooring

That hardwood caught your eye in your home décor magazine? If hardwood is a must, but would bust your budget you must try Vinyl Plank Flooring. VPF looks like genuine hardwood although is over half the cost. A variety of desirable characteristics continue to make this versatile flooring material a popular option to this day. The colors and pattern options that are available with vinyl flooring are nearly endless, and the maintenance is simple.

Mistakes to avoid in your Bathroom Remodel

Mistakes to avoid in your Bathroom Remodel Some things are meant for other rooms in your house, rather than your bathroom. Don’t waste your well earned money on your next bathroom remodel. Avoid bathroom remodel mistakes by avoiding these materials or colors.

1. Wall to Wall Carpet

Carpet is majorly discouraged by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.  Yes this is one comfy flooring to rest your toes on after a long bath, but this material harbors mold, mildew and bacteria. Ultimately carpet in your bathroom is a health concern, more so than a decorating fail. 30 years ago this was a big trend in the remodeling industry, now we are more aware of the risks imposed by carpet in bathrooms. Skip the carpet and opt for a few bathroom throw rugs that can be washed and dries regularly. Tile flooring in bathrooms is a great surface to choose when remodeling your bathroom floor. Tile is easy to clean and disinfect, durable, there are a millions design and color options and will last as long as your bathroom.

2. Wall Paper

We all see the fancy bathrooms in the magazines that display lavish wall paper; fact of the matter is that any high moisture will cause the wall paper to peel eventually. Think about this, why use wall paper in a steamy room, when people use steam to remove old wall paper? Your bathroom produces the most moisture and steam in the whole house. If you must, absolutely must, have your bathroom wall papered – use a high quality, Vinyl wall paper. DO NOT attempt to use a peel and stick wall paper, this will be a waste of time and money. Peel and stick wall paper will bubble and peel within weeks if not days. Wall paper will last the longest in half bathrooms or bathrooms used less frequently.

3. Yellow paint

Avoid breaking out the Canary Yellow paint for your bathroom remodel, as this color is not a great choice for bathrooms. Yellow and yellow tones can make a bathroom look brash, and create a room that obscures your reflection. Ladies, note to self, don’t apply makeup in a yellow room. Choose colors that have a gray or blue tint to get that Spa like feel in your bathroom. Also consider the size of your room before picking a paint color. Darker colors are best suited for larger rooms, and light colors for small rooms.

Budgeting Your Remodel: What You Need to Consider

Budgeting Your Remodel: What You Need to Consider During the spring and summer months, many home owners decide it's time for a remodel. Starting a remodel is a big decision as it can shut down a portion of your home for several days, or weeks. There is much to consider when beginning a remodel, including budgeting. Knowing the proper way to budget will help you stay on task as well as not go overboard with the changes to your home. Read on for top tips on how to budget your remodel and how to stay on track, avoiding spending more than you bargained for.

Consider Every Element

To begin, you will need to consider every element of the remodel. Let’s say that you have decided to remodel your bathroom. You are going for a complete overhaul. So, you will need drywall, new toilet, bathtub, faucets, vanity, light fixtures, etc. You will need to make a list of every item that you will be replacing and then go price out these items. This will give you an idea of material cost.

You will also need to consider if you will be using the services of a Los Angeles remodeling company or if you will be doing the project yourself. Hiring a company will have an added cost but can be well worth the price as you do not have to do the work yourself, the timeline is much shorter and you know there will be no mistakes in the process of the remodel. Have a company come out and price the job so you can have an idea as to how much the project will cost.

Once you have an idea of how much the project will cost see if you can cover the price. If not, take a little more time to save money so you do not end up charging the project on credit cards or taking out a loan.

Contingency Plan

It is always smart to plan on a contingency plan. With remodels, you never know what might be hiding behind the walls or for this instance, behind the tub. Have a little money set aside in case an unexpected need arises. In bathroom remodels, sometimes there is water damage or the need for re-piping. By having a contingency plan, you have money set aside that can pay for such needs, helping you to stay on budget. It is good to have at least 10 to 20 percent of your overall budget set aside as a contingency plan. This gives you a nice cushion if problems arise during the project.

Overall, if you plan out your remodeling project, you will be able to stay on task and on budget. Without proper planning, you can end up spending more money than you bargained for which can lead to further problems. You will also be able to stay on time with the completion of the project, able to enjoy your new space in no time. Plan accordingly and you will have a completed new space in your home that was finished on time and maybe even under budget!

Bathroom Remodel: The Shower and Tub Debate

Bathroom Remodel: The Shower and Tub Debate When it comes to a bathroom remodel, many home owners often find they are debating whether or not to add in a shower and tub combo, a simple shower or just a tub. This is a debate that can cause problems in many homes due to differing opinions on the matter. Often times, it is best to leave the decision making up to the experts so that the work is completed and hopefully the home owners enjoy the new space, no matter which was added! Read on to see the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best decision for your bathroom remodel.

Shower/Tub Debate

Depending on your bathroom space, you probably already have a shower/tub combo. For most homes, this is the standard installation provided. For newer homes, some contractors opt to provide a shower only or a bathtub with no shower combo. This is a personal preference for the home owner and is something to consider. For resale value, it is better to have a shower/tub combo as that is what home owners are looking for in general.

However, if you are remodeling your master bathroom, you do have the option to go with a separate shower and no tub. Perhaps you do not take baths or could use the main bathroom as an area for enjoying a soak every now and then. It is also important to consider the size of the space. In larger bathrooms, a standalone shower can be added along with a bathtub, just separately. If the bathroom is small, then a shower may be your only option.

Narrowing Down Your Choices

When remodeling your bathroom, you will need to narrow down your choices by asking yourself a few questions. Think about how your bathroom is to begin with. Do you only have a shower? Could you make room for a tub? Do you like to take baths more than showers or do you want the option to do both? Consult with a Los Angeles remodeling contractor to see what you can do with the space you have. There may be enough room to add in a standalone shower with tile work and a tub in a separate area or you may just need to have a small standing shower and toilet area.

A contractor will be able to look at the space and configure the room so that it will work seamlessly. Ideas that you may have never thought of easily come to mind with a contractor. Take a look at plans provided to see how you can change up your bathroom and once work begins, you will soon have a brand new space to enjoy and relax in for years to come.

When considering a major remodel, always consult with a contractor. You want to work with individuals who have experience in bathroom remodels. Never try to tackle a project on your own or at least without consulting a professional first. You can easily get in over your head and end up spending more money, time and have a headache from the effort needed. Start the project off right by consulting with a professional to have a space you can enjoy and be proud of.

Affordable Bathroom Remodel Design Ideas for Your Home

Affordable Bathroom Remodel Design Ideas for Your Home When it comes to bathroom remodeling, there is so much that you can do that costs very little. With simple changes, you can make your bathroom into a brand new space, an oasis where you can relax and unwind at the end of the day. Take one or more of the suggestions below and put them to work in your bathroom to have a nice place to relax as you finish the work day.

Paint

Paint can go a long way and is something you can do to change the look of the room for very little money. By simply taking a new paint color and applying it to your walls, you have a fresh color scheme that can be relaxing or bold, whatever you like! Find a color that speaks to you and apply it to your bathroom walls. Add new accent pieces in a varying color for a unique look.

Decorative Touches

If your bathroom is painted in a neutral tone, you can simply purchase new decorative touches to change the look of the space. A new shower curtain, window treatments and other décor items are affordable to purchase and when you go with a completely new color scheme, the bathroom will take on an entirely new look for very little money. By making these simple changes, it will seem like you have spent a lot of money but you really only did a few minor changes to get the new look.

Lighting

Another great way to continue with bathroom remodeling is to change out the light fixtures of the space. Depending on how large your bathroom is or how many bathrooms you have in your home, you may need to change out several fixtures. Many older homes have outdate lighting that once replaced, breathes life back into the space. If you lack lighting experience, hire a Los Angeles remodeling contractor to do the job for you. After the new light fixtures have been added, you will be surprised at how different the space looks and feels.

Full Remodel

If you have the time and money, it can be worth the effort to consider a full bathroom remodel. By changing out old vanities and sinks, showers and tubs as well as lighting and décor, you can have a completely new bathroom with a new look and feel. This of course will be a great deal of work and you will need some help. Trying to tackle a full remodel with little to no experience can lead to trouble. By hiring a Los Angeles remodeling company, you will be able to have a team on hand who know just what to do and can bring new life to your bathroom space.

Overall, any change you do to the bathroom will help you to have a new space to enjoy in your home. Start with simple changes and work your way up to major remodeling projects in order to completely redo the space and enjoy a new bathroom in your home.

Tips and Tricks to Make Your Bedroom Look Bigger

Tips and Tricks to Make Your Bedroom Look Bigger  

If you constantly find yourself battling against space in your bedroom, you clearly need to make some adjustments, as there is no way to physically increase the size of your room. There exist some pretty simple tricks that will not only make your bedroom appear much larger, but will also utilize the very valuable space available and make effective use of every inch of your bedroom. Here are some tips a Los Angeles remodeling company may use to make your bedroom look and feel larger:

Wall mount

Why scatter unnecessary items all over your limited space, when you can strategically arrange them in a nicely structured manner on a wall? Items like lamps, lights and shelving hooks can be wall mounted, leaving floor space to essential, bigger items such as tables and the bed.

Go for lighter colors

Darker colors make the room feel a lot cozier, but they absorb light instead of reflecting it, making the room feel a lot smaller than it already is. Similarly, going for brighter or pale colors makes the room appear light and airy. Your walls may be painted in a manner that incorporates one bright color in different shades. Leave your windows uncovered as this will trick the eye into thinking that the room has more depth.

The mirror effect

Regardless of how creative you may be with your room, it may still appear cramped one way or another. This is where mirrors come in. Mirrors create exemplary illusions. Once you have an arrangement for your room, you could incorporate mirrors on opposite walls such that they face each other. The mirrors will establish a statement, creating an illusion that is very effective as it gives the room a spacious look with its window-like effect.

Shift the focus upwards

A small room will appear much larger provided you adopt shelves and cupboards that run from the floor all the way up to the ceiling. The long vertical lines created by this furniture gives a great illusion of space.

Your furniture should fit the scale

Going for a King-sized bed is wonderful, but a small bedside table to match will give your room a confused demeanor. Opt for more streamlined furniture that are similar in scale, for the uniformity of the room.

Darkened ceilings

Sure, bright colors on walls are a great way to make the room feel larger and airy, but when it comes to the ceiling, you might want to go for a darker color, as this creates depth. Furthermore, adventurous fixtures are more likely to draw your eyes upward. The key here is, anything that can keep the eyes shifting up, is going to make the room seem larger.

Always keep walkways open

Doorways may look like a straight forward place to shift your furniture to, but it may not always work out in your favor.  Moving your furniture to doorways or walkways will disintegrate an otherwise perfect arrangement of the furniture. The bedroom is much more functional and bigger when all the furniture is clear of any paths leading to the bedroom door.

Practical Kitchen Remodeling Tips That Make the Space More Functional

Practical Kitchen Remodeling Tips That Make the Space More Functional  

The kitchen is an important space in your house. It is more than just a cooking place with gorgeous cabinets. If you plan to remodel your kitchen, you want to make it spacious, adoring, and functional. A Los Angeles remodeling company may help you spruce up the look and feel of your kitchen while also making it functional and easy to live and work in. You may want to use the below tips when remodeling the kitchen:

Let the walkways be wide

The paths in the kitchen should allow easy movement and reach of appliances, working surfaces, and other items in the room. Having paths that are at least 36 inches in width ensures that you can move from one point to another. In case of the cooking zone, you can have the paths designed to be 42 inches or something close to that for a one-cook space. If the cooking zone needs to accommodate two cooks, then a 48-inch-wide path is more appropriate.

Minimize steps you take in kitchen

When working in the kitchen, you will need easy access of items. So, think about where and how you will use the items. You may want to store breakfast foods and utensils close to the breakfast table. The dishware and flatware should be located near the dishwashing machine to ensure ease of unloading. Again, you can have plastic containers and wraps kept in a suitable spot close to the work surface to make it easy when wrapping leftovers.

Keep the traffic in the right place

There are other people who will occasionally enter the kitchen, for example, children. When designing your kitchen, ensure it is kid-friendly. You may want to keep your cooktop away from traffic areas to prevent kids from catching handles, something that may result in unwanted spills over the surfaces. The refrigerator should also be accessible by those who cook and clean up the dishes as well as by other people.

Make room for landing space

In designing your kitchen, you may want to allow 15 inches of landing space on sides of refrigerator and cooktop. The same may apply for microwave because you need space to use when working with this appliance. This way, you don’t have to make too many steps trying to reach out for items you are using.

Keep away from the corners

You may think that the corners can make an additional storage space in your kitchen. However, when you plan the design of your kitchen, stay clear of the corners. You should allow sufficient door clearance and swinging. Don’t place appliances on the corners and ensure the doors aren’t banging into one another if they are opened at the same time.

The way you design your kitchen can make or break your experience when working in this space. Using the above kitchen design tips can make your space functional and minimize the amount of time and effort you make when working in the area. In your next kitchen remodeling project, you can incorporate these tips to make sure you and your family enjoy working in the kitchen.

Picking the Right Paint Colors for Your Home

Picking the Right Paint Colors for Your Home  

Color can alter the perception of the space around us. Selecting the right shade of color for your home will create an energetic and fun feel in the place, making it more bearable to reside in. Picking the right color may not always be as straightforward as picking up ripe groceries at the store. Here are some steps you could take that will help you in finding the right color selection when undertaking a home remodeling project:

Sample a small area

When you are still indecisive on what color to go for, you could try your shortlisted colors on a small area in your room, probably the bathroom. You could select your favorite color from a line of items such as dishes, rugs, pieces of furniture, or artwork. This will help you determine, which color strikes you as the most appropriate.

Define the mood in each room

Before opting for a color, ask yourself, “What mood or theme am I going for in this particular space?” A paint color that could work in a kitchen setting will not always work in your bedroom or living room. For your bedroom, you would want a color that simply breathes calm and relaxation to the eye. Similarly, you may want a living room color that energizes guests and family.

For versatile areas like the dining room, you need to determine the tone you want to set. Do you want a color that exhibits a stimulating and sociable demeanor, or do you prefer a quieter, formal one? Warm contrasting colors go well for a social setting while deeper, green and blue colors are good for creating a formal atmosphere.

Remember, once you define the mood, it will lay the groundwork on your desired visual impact of the paint you select.

Lighting influences paint choices

The key reason paint stores offer light boxes is that you can see what the paint chips look like in different lighting. Natural daylight will bring out the true colors, literally. Fluorescent lighting, on the other hand, can cast a light blue tone. Incandescent lighting will bring out warmer tones and yellowy shades.

A stronger color will end up being too much when used next to a picture window, as there will be more light coming through the window. Those brighter colors will look much better on an accent wall instead of as the main color throughout.

Make use of the key elements in your home

There are several elements in your home you should look at before deciding on a color. The flooring, for example, is a great consideration in determining the color scheme since it anchors the room and will have an impact on the color of the walls due to reflections.

You should also consider the color of expensive items in your home, which are not easily replicable. Your house furnishing will play a crucial role in defining the perfect color scheme for a room. It would be ridiculous to discard an expensive dining table simply because it does not integrate well with your color choices. A Los Angeles remodeling contractor may help you decide, which paint colors to use in your home.