Melton Design Build

Kitchen Remodeling

Beyond the Man Cave: Masculine Spaces Go Mainstream

0
June 17, 2013

When it comes to remodeling, the word “masculine” usually conjures up visions of a “man cave” in the basement with a giant TV, a recliner and maybe a pool table. But a “cave” might not be what every guy wants and it certainly doesn’t have to be the only direction for remodeling with the man of the house in mind. Masculine style can go mainstream: carry it throughout the home with spaces that are clean, simple and efficient, leaving fussiness behind.

  1. Basement. Starting with the obvious, he probably will want a large flat screen TV with surround sound (and maybe a gaming system). The basement is also the perfect place for heavy exercise equipment, but after that, make room for other interests, like a wine cellar, computer desk with room for 3 monitors, cabinets for a trophy (or beer stein) collection, or a closet fitted for storing golf clubs, photography equipment or fishing and hunting gear.
  2. Bathroom. A roomy shower with multiple shower heads, steam, digital temperature controls and a built-in bench fits the bill after some pick-up basketball or just a long day at the office. Keep surfaces clutter-free with lots of storage room (and charging outlets) for his shaver, beard trimmer and electric toothbrush. A built-in laundry bin helps keep dirty clothes and towels off the floor. (And a flat screen TV is pretty much a safe bet for any room.)
  3. Closet. Customizing a closet means more than just more room to hang suits and shirts. Drawers, hooks, shelves and cubbies will help keep gym clothes, shoes, ties, belts and t-shirts in order.
  4. Kitchen.  What’s his specialty? Grilling? Get a professional-grade range with a grill in the rangetop. Baking? You’ll want extra counter space to provide plenty of elbow room for rolling and kneading. Don’t forget a prep sink, pot-filler faucet, an extra-large sink with a pull-out sprayer, a wine fridge and handy storage for that set of knives he loves so much.
  5. Color. Gray is the perfect backdrop for your new masculine space. Pair it with other neutrals like ivory, cream, taupe or brown, or add a pop of color like navy, orange or red.

bath-remodeling-500x334

 

Designing a “masculine space” isn’t the same thing to all men. But whether his style preference is “rustic cabin” or  “Mad Men,” the bottom line is to ramp up the storage, dial down the fussiness and keep in mind whatever he thinks of as “fun”!

Please rate this article: 1=not useful 3=useful 5=very useful

0 votes, 0.00 avg. rating (0% score)
: Bathroom Remodeling, Home Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling
: , , , ,

Information Request Form

*This information is required.
First name is required.
Last name is required.
Email address is required.Invalid format.
Phone number is required.
Project Description:

 

Privacy Policy: The information we collect using this form is used for the purpose of responding to your request for information and future contacts with you about our company, its services, remodeling ideas, etc. This information will not be shared, sold, rented, given, or in any other way provided to unrelated third parties except as may be required by law.

Re-feathering That Empty Nest

0
May 20, 2013

kitchen-remodelingWhen kids take flight, a house can seem empty…or full of new possibilities. For so many of our clients, the “empty nest” becomes a chance not just to repurpose rooms, but to create all-new spaces sparkling with room for everything from hobbies to entertaining. Let’s take a look at some ideas for re-feathering your own empty nest.

  1. Move cooking to the front burner. No more squeezing meals in between kids’ never-ending activities! You can indulge your own taste buds and take time to savor the joy of cooking. A chef’s kitchen remodel makes it even better with new appliances, work spaces, and flourishes all designed just for how you like to cook – and entertain.
  2. Free yourself from “family friendly.” You did a great job managing all the comings, goings, sports gear and stuff!  And now that the kids are on their own, you’re free to go a little more upscale and elegant. What about gorgeous new tile or hardwood flooring? What about turning an unused bedroom filled with posters and sports gear into a spa-like master bath with a fireplace?
  3. Take “me time” seriously.  Is it time to write that book? Or to work from home somewhere other than at the dining table? What about designing a room just for your workouts – or as a beautiful meditation space, library, music room or craft studio?   These are much better ideas than letting unused bedrooms turn into dusty storage rooms.

There are so many fun ways to re-feather your empty nest. While you’re planning, though, you may want to remodel so that even dream rooms have the flexibility to turn back into bedrooms. Storage secrets, space planning, and creative, multipurpose designs can give you twice the pleasure by letting you welcome new possibilities and welcome the kids back to the nest for visits.

So, what have you been waiting to do with your home – and your life? Give us a call and let’s look at some ideas and see…what flies!

Please rate this article: 1=not useful 3=useful 5=very useful

0 votes, 0.00 avg. rating (0% score)
: Home Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling, Master Suites
: , , , ,

Information Request Form

*This information is required.
First name is required.
Last name is required.
Email address is required.Invalid format.
Phone number is required.
Project Description:

 

Privacy Policy: The information we collect using this form is used for the purpose of responding to your request for information and future contacts with you about our company, its services, remodeling ideas, etc. This information will not be shared, sold, rented, given, or in any other way provided to unrelated third parties except as may be required by law.

TREND WATCH: Spring Design is Sprouting with Florals

0
April 30, 2013
Spring has sprung! And with it comes an exciting array of lustrous floral designs. With temperatures rising and flowers blooming, it’s time to bring the beauty of the outdoors in. Large, radiant floral prints have a way of enlivening a home with a modern look and patterns with smaller prints give an elegant, vintage appearance. Bring some energy into your home’s design scheme with a beautiful mix of floral prints for a garden bouquet feel.

Floral prints pop against solid colors. A neutral bedroom or living room is a great setting to combine patterns, colors and textures. Transform a white or brown couch by adding solid throw pillows with a few different floral prints. Wainscoting with floral wallpaper creates a lasting springtime décor experience. An accent wall of floral paper brings life to an otherwise solid colored room.

Expand your décor beyond floral curtains, rugs and pillows; the floral motif can be found on dishes and kitchenware. You could find your favorite patterns in plates, mugs, lamps and vases. Ceramics with floral prints can be an eclectic, mix-and-match collection of style.

For more floral design ideas check out our Pinboard on Pinterest.

Please rate this article: 1=not useful 3=useful 5=very useful

0 votes, 0.00 avg. rating (0% score)
: Architecture, Bathroom Remodeling, Home Additions, Home Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling
: , ,

Information Request Form

*This information is required.
First name is required.
Last name is required.
Email address is required.Invalid format.
Phone number is required.
Project Description:

 

Privacy Policy: The information we collect using this form is used for the purpose of responding to your request for information and future contacts with you about our company, its services, remodeling ideas, etc. This information will not be shared, sold, rented, given, or in any other way provided to unrelated third parties except as may be required by law.

Kitchen Design Trends from Transitional to Techno

0
April 19, 2013

Kitchen remodeling trendsTrendy kitchens have become open, inviting spaces for family and friends. Not only do they feature modern technologies and materials, they incorporate design that eliminates boundaries between kitchen and living areas.  Open floor plans provide more cooking space and make for increased family time. Transitional design is a valued trend for home kitchens.  A comfortable, homey kitchen with a few modern updates will bring this transitional style to life.

Color: Painting your kitchen with a trendy color palette can create the updated look you desire. Gray is a lasting trend and a great compliment to bold color pops such as emerald glass backsplashes or deep red bar stools. Another popular kitchen palette is black and white. An overall white space with touches of black in knobs and countertops creates a polished look.

Materials: White cabinets are versatile and enduring and deliver a light, clean appearance. Low maintenance and modern countertop materials are taking center stage. CaesarStone countertops are popular options and can be created in customized colors. Choose an exciting solid color to punch up a neutral kitchen or a soft blend for a subtle addition.

Technology: Give your kitchen a techno touch. Eco-friendly touch faucets are valued for their water conserving design.  These modern faucets help create a more “green” home and are designed to complement all kitchen décor types.  LED lighting is another impressive effect in trendy kitchens. Lighting under cabinetry has a practical use for illuminating workspace but it also delivers an awe-inspiring aesthetic to bring your kitchen up to date.

Please rate this article: 1=not useful 3=useful 5=very useful

0 votes, 0.00 avg. rating (0% score)
: Home Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling
: , , , ,

Information Request Form

*This information is required.
First name is required.
Last name is required.
Email address is required.Invalid format.
Phone number is required.
Project Description:

 

Privacy Policy: The information we collect using this form is used for the purpose of responding to your request for information and future contacts with you about our company, its services, remodeling ideas, etc. This information will not be shared, sold, rented, given, or in any other way provided to unrelated third parties except as may be required by law.

4 Steps to Planning a Better Kitchen Remodel

0
April 17, 2013

Planning a Better Kitchen Remodel

Perhaps nowhere else in your home does the successful blending of form and function result in as much payback and long-term satisfaction as in your kitchen. But kitchens are arguably the most complex room in your home when it comes to planning.  Help from a professional is required for a successful design, but let’s not forget that your role in the planning process is also critical. Here are four tips for planning your kitchen remodel so that you and your designer can develop the best possible kitchen for you and your family.

1. Define how your new kitchen will be used and who will use it.  (Consider now and over the life of your kitchen.)  With this list you are helping map out how the kitchen must function. List things such as:

  • How many people live in the house and what are their ages (now and during the life of the kitchen)?
  • What do you typically use your kitchen for? (Only cooking, cooking and eating, or cooking, homework and as “family central”?)
  • Typically how many people use the kitchen at the same time, and are they all cooking or doing different things at the same time?  (An efficient kitchen layout for one person cooking can get pretty crowded if two or more people are in the kitchen and especially if more than one person is cooking.)
  • Will you do much entertaining that will require food preparation or staging in the kitchen? If so what is your typical size event? (4 people, 20 people, 100 people?)
  • How much refrigerator and freezer space do you need?  Maybe a wine cooler/refrigerator?
  • How big and what type of range top/stove and oven (or ovens) do you want?
  • Do you need more than one sink? Or a pot-filler faucet at the stove?
  • How much counter space do you need and what type of counter top is best?
  • How much and what type of storage?
  • Include any other special requirements for the kitchen.

2. Determine what you can afford or what you want to spend on the remodel.

3. Look online or in magazines for ideas to help you communicate your design preferences and the look you have in mind for your kitchen. A website like Houzz can often provide you with all the reference and inspiration you will need.  You can even create an online ideabook with the images you have collected.

4. List your priorities for the project.  What are the most important things you want? What are things that would be really nice to have?  What are the things you could live without if you had to?

With the above things done you are now well prepared to sit down with one of our designers to move into the design process for your new kitchen. A process that because of your preplanning, will be more successful and provide you even greater satisfaction than you had hoped.

Please rate this article: 1=not useful 3=useful 5=very useful

0 votes, 0.00 avg. rating (0% score)
: Home Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling
: , , ,

Information Request Form

*This information is required.
First name is required.
Last name is required.
Email address is required.Invalid format.
Phone number is required.
Project Description:

 

Privacy Policy: The information we collect using this form is used for the purpose of responding to your request for information and future contacts with you about our company, its services, remodeling ideas, etc. This information will not be shared, sold, rented, given, or in any other way provided to unrelated third parties except as may be required by law.

TREND WATCH: Gray: The New Neutral for Home Design

0
April 8, 2013

Gray provides the perfect backdrop for a space – a neutral palette, an ideal venue for pops of color from furniture and accessories. This trend started in 2010 with Pantone adding Oyster Gray to its fall color report. Since then various hues have taken center stage in design, proving gray’s staying power.

Gray provides a rich backdrop for pops of bold color. Anchor the room with a yellow rug or consider brightly colored furniture to contrast a neutral gray wall. Add some purple pillows or a throw to a gray couch and watch this style bring your home to life.

Other gray materials such as polished concrete or stainless steel are elemental additions that can be found in a striking contemporary kitchen. Consider dark gray cabinetry with accents in crisp white and marble countertops. Try a gray stain on wood pieces to reveal rich grain and natural beauty.

Ivory, cream and taupe are other neutrals that harmonize with warm grays for a stately appearance in any living space. A gray rug brings a warm focus against white decor. Try pairing cool gray walls with white trim to create a homey background for darker gray accents. Curtains and coffee tables are excellent venues for these dark gray expressions.

Click to see trends and more gray design ideas in our pinboard on pinterest

Please rate this article: 1=not useful 3=useful 5=very useful

0 votes, 0.00 avg. rating (0% score)
: Architecture, Home Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling
: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Information Request Form

*This information is required.
First name is required.
Last name is required.
Email address is required.Invalid format.
Phone number is required.
Project Description:

 

Privacy Policy: The information we collect using this form is used for the purpose of responding to your request for information and future contacts with you about our company, its services, remodeling ideas, etc. This information will not be shared, sold, rented, given, or in any other way provided to unrelated third parties except as may be required by law.

Downsizing: The New Way to Live Large

0
April 3, 2013

One lasting trend to emerge from the economic downturn is intentional downsizing. Gone away is the McMansion concept as architects and designers are taking efficient use of space to a whole new level. Formal dining rooms, dens and home offices are becoming relics of the past. Instead, open living plans are blurring the boundaries between the kitchen, living and dining areas. The overall feel created from this type of layout is one of spaciousness, while the actual footprint can be much smaller.

One benefit is, of course, cost savings when you have a smaller, more efficient home. The real payback, however, comes from the increased family time when everyone’s basically in the same open space while performing different tasks. While the kids are at the bar doing homework, mom can be nearby at her open micro-office checking email.

Ideas for creating a floor plan that will give you the openness you desire while creating efficiency and storage:

Remove walls that separate your kitchen from other areas of the home. Floor-to-ceiling built-in bookcases can flank the opening creating much needed storage.

Using the same flooring throughout the entire open floor creates cohesiveness and eliminates the lines that visually break up the space and make it feel smaller.

Create a color palette that includes one main color that carries throughout the entire space. Use accent colors to differentiate the kitchen and eating areas from the living area.
For more ideas on open floor plans and efficient design, see our pin board on Pinterest.

Please rate this article: 1=not useful 3=useful 5=very useful

0 votes, 0.00 avg. rating (0% score)
: Architecture, Builder, Home Energy, Home Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling
: , , , , , , ,

Information Request Form

*This information is required.
First name is required.
Last name is required.
Email address is required.Invalid format.
Phone number is required.
Project Description:

 

Privacy Policy: The information we collect using this form is used for the purpose of responding to your request for information and future contacts with you about our company, its services, remodeling ideas, etc. This information will not be shared, sold, rented, given, or in any other way provided to unrelated third parties except as may be required by law.

Enjoy the View: Windows that Bring the Outdoors in

0
March 20, 2013

Living in such a beautiful and temperate locale, it makes sense to maximize our outdoor exposure. Bring the gorgeous views into your home with windows that soar floor to ceiling. Bathe your home in fresh, mountain air by replacing standard windows and doors with accordion-style units that open wide allowing you to meld indoors and out.

Concerned about energy efficiency and keeping your home comfortable? No need to worry. Window coverings are designed to help reduce energy loss. Today’s window and glass options are built to keep harsh rays at bay while still allowing the outdoor beauty to shine through.

Open your mind and your home to the possibilities of new, larger windows to maximize your outdoor exposure.

See more window ideas in our Window Wonders Ideabook on Houzz.

Please rate this article: 1=not useful 3=useful 5=very useful

0 votes, 0.00 avg. rating (0% score)
: Architecture, Home Additions, Home Energy, Home Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling
:

Information Request Form

*This information is required.
First name is required.
Last name is required.
Email address is required.Invalid format.
Phone number is required.
Project Description:

 

Privacy Policy: The information we collect using this form is used for the purpose of responding to your request for information and future contacts with you about our company, its services, remodeling ideas, etc. This information will not be shared, sold, rented, given, or in any other way provided to unrelated third parties except as may be required by law.

Add Some Design Sparkle to Your Kitchen or Bath

0
February 26, 2013

A fresh backsplash design is an easy way to add some panache to your kitchen or bath. Replace outdated tile with popular glass mosaic tile in iridescent colors. For a bold, modern look opt for a glass backsplash with a bright color behind it…maybe lime green or robin’s egg blue.

Texture is on-trend for kitchen and bath design. Choose river rock or slate to create a spa-like feel in the bath. Cork makes a fitting backsplash for a wine bar or drink station. Add some brick to your kitchen wall for a stunning Tuscan impression. New products for backsplashes include textured panels that are back-lit for a lustrous glow.

Get creative with your backsplash and design a focal piece in your kitchen that caters to your style. Vinyl stencil backsplashes catch the eye and are an especially fun way to add some color and pattern to a neutral kitchen. Add an embedded spice rack to your cook space for a practical way to “spice” things up! Decorative plates are a simple expression of taste to complete the look. Set up some varying colors, textures or sizes to keep it interesting and enjoy a beautiful new focus in the kitchen!

For more ideas on bold backsplashes, check out our pin board on Pinterest.

Please rate this article: 1=not useful 3=useful 5=very useful

2 votes, 4.50 avg. rating (90% score)
: Bathroom Remodeling, Home Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling, Uncategorized
: , , , ,

Information Request Form

*This information is required.
First name is required.
Last name is required.
Email address is required.Invalid format.
Phone number is required.
Project Description:

 

Privacy Policy: The information we collect using this form is used for the purpose of responding to your request for information and future contacts with you about our company, its services, remodeling ideas, etc. This information will not be shared, sold, rented, given, or in any other way provided to unrelated third parties except as may be required by law.

The Biggest Fears in Doing a Kitchen Remodel

September 10, 2012

As a kitchen remodeling contractor, we talk with a lot of clients who have put off kitchen renovation for years – even when budget isn’t an issue.  Why? Well, apart from the challenge of having to “cook without a kitchen” for some period of time, the reasons fall into three categories:

  1. Fear of the kitchen getting outdated too soon. Homeowners often put off remodeling today because they keep waiting for the next new trend so their kitchen will stay fresh-looking longer. The trouble is that what’s “in” for kitchen remodels changes all the time – often quite quickly. One year painted kitchen cabinets are in, six months later cherry cabinets are what the kitchen remodeling magazines now say you must have. As an experienced kitchen remodeler, we know what’s in this month’s magazines. Even more important, we know what will stand the test of time in terms of materials and design that will retain their appeal, quality and good looks for a very long time.  We can also do your kitchen renovation with updates in mind – giving you a highly functional floor plan plus quality “bones” (cabinets, backsplashes, flooring). Whether your style is contemporary or traditional, this classic kitchen design can then be updated years from now with simple touches like new cabinet hardware or changing the wall color.
  2.  Fear of missing out on something “cool” that’s on the market. Research, research and more research can often keep homeowners from being able to settle on a kitchen remodeling plan. They can’t commit because they are afraid that they’ve overlooked something wonderful – an ingenious cabinet organizing feature, new faucet technology, or a fabulous new option for flooring.  Well, as a kitchen remodeler, I go to the kitchen shows can I tell you that from counter-level fireplaces to hands-free faucets, there are a ton of cool products that can add pizzazz to kitchen renovation.  I can show you what’s out there and I can help you filter out things my experience tells me won’t live up to expectations.  I can also help you keep from being overwhelmed: instead of starting with all the new products, we’ll start by taking by looking at how you want your kitchen to look, feel and function. This helps us zero in on the “wow” products that will make the biggest difference.
  3. Fear of overlooking important functionality.  The kitchen isn’t always just for cooking. It’s the family gathering place, often a homework zone, and often an entertaining area. Many times, those many roles can make homeowners reluctant for fear that they will go through the kitchen remodeling process only to find out that they’ve forgotten to think of something the kitchen needs to accommodate.  The way to address this concern is to visualize: imagine yourself cooking and entertaining. Imagine the kids coming home from school.  This careful visualization process helps you “live” through the floor plan and functionality before your kitchen renovation even begins and this helps avoid overlooking everything from where the recycling bins, kids’ backpacks and dogs’ water bowl will go to how much seating you’d really like to have when guests are sharing the kitchen.

We understand that it’s not always easy to commit to a kitchen renovation. Still, we have many, many clients who have gone through the kitchen remodeling process with us and are completely delighted with their new kitchen’s functionality, look, and “wow.” We’d be delighted to help you to finally have your own dream kitchen – just give us a call and let’s talk.

Please rate this article: 1=not useful 3=useful 5=very useful

0 votes, 0.00 avg. rating (0% score)
: Kitchen Remodeling

Information Request Form

*This information is required.
First name is required.
Last name is required.
Email address is required.Invalid format.
Phone number is required.
Project Description:

 

Privacy Policy: The information we collect using this form is used for the purpose of responding to your request for information and future contacts with you about our company, its services, remodeling ideas, etc. This information will not be shared, sold, rented, given, or in any other way provided to unrelated third parties except as may be required by law.
Page 1 of 212»