http://mhmremodeling.comRSS feeds for mhmremodeling.com60http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/21/Showered-in-Luxury.aspx#Comments0http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=86&ModuleID=432&ArticleID=21http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21&PortalID=0&TabID=86http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/21/Showered-in-Luxury.aspxShowered in Luxury   Whether you're remodeling or upgrading, get the latest tips on shower enclosures and showerheads -- plus what tile works best on bathroom floors. By Douglas Brown The spiral-chambered Nautilus by Clarke Kohler's water tile can be aimed in any direction Rohl's 3-function model Ondine’s new Electronic Light Shower BodySpa waterfall by Kohler   Just as the kitchen transformed from a utilitarian room into an extravagant entertainment space, the bathroom is undergoing a similar change, from water closet to home spa — and the evolution often begins with the shower stall. The trick to creating a spa-like bathroom is to open up the lines of sight says Sean Ruck, a spokesman for the National Kitchen & Bath Association in Hackettstown, N.J. "What it means for showers is glass enclosures. Taking that to the next level, you have seamless construction." Or, the enclosure could disappear entirely, says Cassandra Coombe of Associates3, a design firm in Denver. "The enclosure is sort of going away. It's either an all-glass enclosure or an open shell with an open drain and a glass wall." For those wedded to a more traditional style, Foremost International in Canada now frames its glass shower doors in oak. This gives the shower an earthy feel and the potential to match the latest bathroom decorating trends like stone soaking tubs, glass sinks and slate floors. "The frame is solid oak, and it is treated with linseed oil," says Rick Borg, a product development specialist with Foremost. "It's the whole spa look that people are suddenly getting into." The inside of the shower is changing, too. Showerheads, for example, have become increasingly sophisticated and technical. Single-function showerheads are still popular, especially in larger sizes that create a rain effect. You can also find multi-function showerheads that offer a variety of sprays, including massage and mist settings. Showerhead design isn't the only thing evolving — location is, too. Instead of a showerhead poking out of the wall at an angle above the tub, many are now being installed right in the ceiling. This is especially effective with rain showerheads, giving the user the feeling that they're being drenched by a spring shower. Or you can skip the old-fashioned showerhead and opt for high-end technology. How about Kohler's WaterTile panel, four shower tiles installed flush to the ceiling? Or their modular WaterTiles, which can be placed wherever you'd like, from ceiling to walls, in singles or groups, to give you exactly the shower experience you crave. If you enjoy therapeutic massage, consider a spa system with built-in body jets to soothe aching muscles. Look into after-market upgrades like those at showerpanelstore.com or install a system like Jacuzzi's Vectra Body Spray system, which is pre-assembled for easy installation. Another new favorite? Steam showers. Upgrade your existing bath with a steam panel like the Full Body Shower Panel from Wasauna or opt for a built-in steam room like the Ameristeam by Brilliant Showers. Increasingly, showers are being built with the environment in mind, meaning extra showerheads need not translate into wasted water (not to mention a daunting water bill). "We encourage clients to select water-savvy bath fixtures," says Coombe, whose firm specializes in eco-friendly construction. "Newer showerheads tend to use a lot less water than older ones. You can easily find out the gallons-per-minute, or cycles-per-minute, before you buy them." One showerhead, made by Bricor, achieves a 1-gallon-per-minute rate by pumping water droplets with air before they leave the fixture. "You feel the water, but you don't have it running off your body so much," says Tim VanderWall with InterArchitectural Products in Lakewood, Colo. "It's very green." In addition to changing the stall and showerhead, you can also add spa-style upgrades. "You now have showers using chromatherapy, or light therapy," says Ruck. "It's been around for hundreds of years, [and is] the visual answer to aromatherapy." In a chromatherapy shower, lamps emit different colors. As the water passes through the light, it changes the color of the water and, the theory goes, affects your mood. For true convenience, go for a digital control system like Kohler's DTV II. From the wall panel outside the shower, you control water temperature and pressure, light levels and steam. It even allows you to plug in your iPod and play it through Kohler's SoundTile Speakers. Michael Wandschneider, senior product manager for Performance Showering at Kohler, says that with the touch of a button, the DTV II "brings four media together — water, sound, light and steam — to provide a perfectly tailored and choreographed showering experience." One thing to keep in mind when designing the shower is how to protect the bathroom against moisture. "Moisture is always an issue," says Coombe, affecting both the longevity of the surfaces and the quality of the showering experience. Most vanities, countertops and medicine chests are made to withstand a bathroom's high-moisture environment. However, if you convert an antique vanity or use a material that is susceptible to water, seal it with a moisture barrier like polyurethane. Choose rugs and curtains that can be frequently laundered to prevent mold and mildew build-up. Also make sure your walls are supported by concrete backer-board and coated with mold-free paint. To keep the floor from getting slick, use textured tiles. Any size will work, but the smaller they are, the better grab they will have. Small stone mosaic tiles like limestone or travertine add texture and durability, Coombe says, making the bathroom both safe and beautiful. PHOTO CREDITS Kohler, Co. Brilliant Showers Alfredo Salvatori MikeSun, 30 Nov 2008 23:12:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19/Space-for-the-kitchen.aspx#Comments0http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=86&ModuleID=432&ArticleID=19http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=19&PortalID=0&TabID=86http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19/Space-for-the-kitchen.aspxIf you are just moving into a new house, thinking of selling your current house, or just looking for a way to spruce up the house you have and are keeping, the best place to start is in the kitchen. Kitchens are the most popular place in the house, at least when it comes to perceived value. Ask any realtor, when people are house hunting, the kitchen can make or break the deal. Even if you have no plans to leave your house, the advice these realtors give their customers can help you have a kitchen you love even more. Baker's Rack Give Me Some Space! One of the most important things to have in a kitchen is space. If you have a small kitchen, you may think there's no way to have more space, but you'd be wrong. Even if you don't have floor space, there are still other ways to make your kitchen seem more spacious. You may want to start by adding more vertical storage. Kitchen Cart One very popular piece of kitchen furniture these days is baker's racks. These are the racks that in the old days were used to cool pastries, pies, and loaves of bread. These days, they are just thought of as nice traditional kitchen furniture pieces. If you are forward thinking, you will see a lot of storage potential in baker's racks. All those appliances you have on the counters can be put away on the baker's rack until you need to use them. That will open up the counters, giving your kitchen an immediate look of being more spacious. I Could Use a Little Help Here! Everyone wants a kitchen that seems to help his or her culinary creativity instead of hindering it. Some pieces of furniture you add to the kitchen can do this. Take kitchen carts for example. These carts can be purchased to match the rest of your kitchen decor, and yet be able to move around with you to where you need them as you prepare a culinary masterpiece. A kitchen cart that has wheel locks may even be able to double as an island in your kitchen, which is another hot trend.MikeSat, 29 Nov 2008 14:05:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:19http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/17/Trends-to-watch-in-kitchens-and-bathrooms.aspx#Comments0http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=86&ModuleID=432&ArticleID=17http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=17&PortalID=0&TabID=86http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/17/Trends-to-watch-in-kitchens-and-bathrooms.aspxThe Kitchen At the heart of the house, the kitchen can make or break a home sale. Give the room a focus, and the client immediately sees herself going about her daily routine. Whether it's brewing coffee and listening to the morning news or baking cookies for the after-school crowd, a design built around the family's lifestyle improves a client's connection with her surroundings. Here's how Fishburne sees lifestyle design playing out in the most-used room of the house:   Consider the differing needs of a baker versus a gourmet chef. For one thing, each desires a different type of stove. The baker wouldn't care so much about the range, but would want an upgraded oven. The baker also would need a pop-up mixing stand for the heavy-duty mixer. On the other hand, the chef might want a wok, a griddle or a slow-simmer burner for cooking specialty dishes.   Choosing the right appliances also gives the kitchen a custom look. As people move toward healthier lifestyles, steamers are becoming more popular. New ideas include convection ovens and induction cooktops, and they're coming down in price, which makes them accessible to a wider market.   Refrigeration has gone vertical, a trend coming from Europe where space is at a premium. The new 24-inch refrigerators and freezers allow much more design flexibility. You can place the units where you need them, plus they're moderate on energy usage.   What if you entertain a lot? Then you have multiple serving platters and dinner plates that are larger than the standard 12 inches. Older cabinets just don't have the width to accommodate this need. In most well-designed kitchens, storage is key. Customizing spaces for a homeowner's needs means spending time to find out what, how many and what size items they have to store.   You can go light, in terms of add-ons, or you can go to the extreme. Raising and lowering countertop heights can provide optimal access for kids and for adults who require different levels for maximum comfort.   For those limited to small changes: Keep the cabinets and change out the countertops. Use different finishes on the island and the perimeter. Going back to how things are going to be used. For a baker, try marble in one area and quartz surfacing everywhere else. The Bath Just as travel has influenced kitchen design, the spa industry drives upgrades in the bath. While the kitchen is the space where everyone gathers, in the bath it's all about you! "And for a long time we neglected the bath," Fishburne says. "There were lots of useless fixtures, including whirlpool tubs that never got filled." The new look, especially in master baths, has moved toward sanctuary or a personal haven. In today's baths, Fishburne sees these trends making waves:   At the extreme end of luxury, you see couples carving out space for each other. His-and-her bath suites include dual vanities. His might appear in a darker wood tone, while hers is lighter and more feminine.   Many new and remodeled master baths include fully tiled walls and floors, often outfitted with in-floor radiant heat. This additional amenity can be programmed to turn on and off at certain times of the day, thus minimizing the amount of energy required.   Some homeowners prefer showers, and the new power assemblies feature multiple showerheads. These can be grouped in a tower or arranged on the walls and ceiling. Some require upgraded plumbing.   Soaking tubs, some with water-overflow features, create the ultimate indulgence. Today's soakers are better-designed and have more features including air jets, aromatherapy and chromatherapy. And in most cases, people are really using them.   Little changes can make a big difference. Use more ambient lighting, or add towel warmers. Both create a spa-like atmosphere and add a pampering touch. MikeSat, 29 Nov 2008 02:22:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:17http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/14/Shower-head-trends.aspx#Comments0http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=86&ModuleID=432&ArticleID=14http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=14&PortalID=0&TabID=86http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/14/Shower-head-trends.aspx What is the latest trend in shower heads? Lately, we hear this question a lot. And no wonder, the current offering for modern showerheads can be overwhelming. The trend is that more and more consumers are into design and aesthetics versus functions only. And the new generations of shower heads are qualifying for both - they are beautiful and functional. What's left is to choose the right shower head depending on your desire. Large shower heads like Dornbracht RainSky and Hansgrohe Raindance Rainmaker, the Rain type ceiling shower heads remain the most desirable. With the most water coverage, they produce different types of 'rain' while mixing water with air and light. These are the most luxury shower heads you can buy and, of course, the most expensive ones. This type of shower head is actually a very technologically advanced electronic balance module that controls large water flows and requires built-in installation. Dornbracht RainSky E The RainSky E ceiling mounted showerhead demands large size bathroom. Another Sieger design, it turns water into pure pleasure. Over 32" wide (820mm), RainSky E overhead shower is designed to bring the "[rain] clouds from the sky into our homes", literally. Dornbracht JustRain Dornbracht's most recent addition JustRain shower head caters to smaller bathroom space and is only 16" wide (400mm) and priced accordingly less at $2,000. JustRain stands up for its name - rain in all forms and rain only. The sensation of rain is achieved to the fullest. Hansgrohe Raindance Rainmaker This massaging shower head is from Hansgrohe, almost 2 feet (24") in diameter. Just like the RainSky, the Raindance Rainmaker Imperial Shower mixes water with air and light creating different 'rain' types, and is designed to give your body complete relaxation with 3-Whirl massage and 358 No-Clog spray channels. Requires ceiling flush mount installation. Still no less desirable are the Rain Dome type round ceiling or wall-mount showerheads. They are installed as regular showerheads. The Rain Domes got larger, in fact, as large as 14" diameter showerhead can be purchased from Hansgrohe. Hansgrohe Downpour Air Royale Hansgrohe Downpour Air Royale 14-in shower head may be the largest rain dome shower head that is currently available on the market. Simple contemporary design provides best aesthetics for a modern shower.   KWC Rain One Eighty KWC Rain One Eighty is another large round showerhead of the rain dome type that is one of the best. Buy it as ceiling-mount with arm or wall-mount with arm. It's 8 1/2" in diameter, has 180 water outlets and can swivel 35°. As most KWC shower heads it is self-cleaning thanks to KWC JetClean technology.   The idea of having larger showering surface to provide more water coverage has been materialized in some new interesting shapes and functions. For example, Kohler has its own version of Rain Dome - the square WaterTile Panel which is actually a multiple head shower. Grohe came up with a double shower head that is also moving up and down. Kohler WaterTile Rain Kohler new K-8030 WaterTile Rain overhead showering panel comes with 54-nozzle. With its clean look it can be an easy fit in any custom application and decor space. Sized as 9-7/8" or 251mm square. Price is $337. Available in the 3rd quarter of 2006. Grohe Freehander Dual Shower Head Grohe Freehander can be converted from the double shower head into two body-spray jets in a single movement. Its 22" lever pivots 180 degrees and carries two heads that can be rotated a full 360 degree each. With all this flexibility, the Freehander can be used for "the individual body parts massage or a very pleasurable shower experience". It can also conserve water by switching to a reduced flow setting on one head, and shutting off completely the other head. Buy this Grohe shower head for the price from $410 to $565.   While the size has been definitely a major consideration... lately, the designer's focus has been shifting away from the size and to the shape. Lacava has one of the most comprehensive collections of modern contemporary shower heads we've seen. The star-shaped, the square-shaped and the 'embraced' shower heads are only few examples of the latest innovative designs available. And, of course, the Waterfall showerhead is one of our favorites. Lacava Star-shaped showerhead This Star-shaped beauty is Lacava ceiling mounted stationary rain shower head with arm, from the Minimal collection. It's 9" in diameter. Price starts at $1,226. Lacava Square Showerhead Lacava Square Showerhead is another trendy design equipped with 144 jets. It's a quite large 8" square head that can be tilted. Priced from $995.   Lacava Embrace Showerhead This shower head is a part of the Embrace bathroom collection. It bends around to extend 15 1/4 inches from the wall and is actually much larger than it looks on the picture. Price starts at $440.   Lacava Waterfall Showerhead The Waterfall Showerhead is a part of the famous and the most distinct Lacava Waterblade bathroom collection. Priced from $743.   Even more unusual new shapes in shower head design have emerged... Take a look at this awesome octopus-shaped showerhead from Adbatnos. Adbatnos Cloudburst Shower Head Adbatnos Cloudburst Shower Head H-5 is made from solid Brass and is Chrome plated. 9" in diameter, Cloudburst will create a very unique statement in your modern spa bathroom.   What has happened to the most 'common' small round showerhead? It's there, only it got better. With so many to choose from, we suggest you stick with the best. Hansgrohe, KWC, and Grohe showerheads are some of our favorites. All self-cleaning shower heads, a bit pricier but will last forever. Sloan shower heads Sloan shower heads is what we really recommend. Built as a commercial showerhead, this is the last shower head you will ever have to purchase! Sloan offers the most durable showerheads we have ever found, and they're stylish, too!   ... The trend won't be complete without these European shower heads that present the latest innovative design options. The Euridice shower head by Ritmonio The Glass shower head from Ritmonio brings new colors and new materials to your bathroom. Available in round and rectangular shapes and with multiple setup options, it outlines the color of water that we always enjoy seeing - blue.   IB Rubinetterie Spa Lampadado Showerhead Lampadado comes with an intriguing shower head design that seems very unusual at first ... only minutes later you realise that it's simply natural. But it makes you say 'wow'. Isn't it what you want? This design achieved two goals; it produced a very sturdy construction with 4 jet areas, each with its own water supply, and it created a conversation starter.   Fornara & Maulini Charade Orchidea Trio Shower Head The Charade Orchidea Trio shower head from Fornara Maulini is just that - its large and entertaining. Its overwhelming size is nicely offset by its eye-pleasing design and a fantastic showering experience.   Rogerseller Spray Quattro wall mount shower head For a wall-mount installation, the Spray Quattro head presents a very clean contemporary design. Shaped as one continuous cylinder it offers a minimalist appearance.   Newform Square Pivoting shower head Newform naturally extends its square shower head design with the pivoting option. The dual mounting brackets provide a more sturdy installation and an unusual but more inviting look.   Hansa2Day hand shower Almost every bathroom fixture from Hansa is an amazing innovation, and Hansa2Day is no exception: tilt the shower head down and it becomes a waterfall shower!   Vola 50 showerhead by Teit Weylandt Vola 'slices the rain' with its symmetrical design. It organizes your showering water into parallel flows. It's not just about the fixture design any more ... it's about the 'shaping' the water flow. For a contemporary shower there is a contemporary shaped water flow!   Ross Lovegrove shower head design for Vitra Istanbul collection Products of Ross Lovegrove imagination, these Vitra shower heads are works of art that may look futuristic .. but only repeat the organic shapes that water naturally takes. Incredible, indeed.   Email  |  Save  Rate this story:        0     Comments: 1  place some prices plz 16 months ago (by anonymous)     Add comment Track your comments  Start personalizing your news! -- No registration required --     var explicitTopics = []; var layouts = { selected:-1 }; showAddRemCatPopupCanStart = true; // // Places feedback (this replaces the Playground version). // function sliderSelectedX(slider) { var feedback = Math.round(slider.percent - 50); var itemId = slider.itemId; showItemMessage(itemId, 'Saving...'); ItemSelectionControl.Feedback(itemId, feedback, sendFeedbackDoneX, {itemId:itemId,topicId:57,feedback:feedback}); // update the profile widget counters incrementFeedbackCount(slider); } function sendFeedbackDoneX(response) { var itemId = response.context.itemId; var topicId = response.context.topicId; var feedback = response.context.feedback; hideItemMessage(itemId); if (!hasError(response)) { // bring another article if feedback is high enough if (feedback >= minFeedbackForNewStory) { addItemInTopic(itemId, topicId, false); } } } // // Starts loading a new batch. // function loadNewItems(cat) { PersonalNews.ClearSelection(cat, loadNewItems2, cat); } function loadNewItems2(response) { if (!hasError(response)) { var cat = response.context; var href = toAbsolute(''); if (cat && cat.length > 0) { href = toAbsolute('category/' + cat); } location.href = href; } } var story = { Id:5556324, TopicId:57, Source:{ Id:1802, Name:'Trendir'}, Comments:1, ReadersThatLiked:0}; function pageOnLoad() { registerItemList('tblItemList'); validatePreferences(); var script = jstStoryScript.process({Id:5556324,TopicId:57,Feedback:0}); script = script.replace(/sliderSelected/, 'sliderSelectedX'); eval(script); // run all the registered for startup onloadListeners.run(); } MikeFri, 28 Nov 2008 00:41:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:14http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/12/The-hottest-remodeling-trends-for-2011.aspx#Comments0http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=86&ModuleID=432&ArticleID=12http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=12&PortalID=0&TabID=86http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/12/The-hottest-remodeling-trends-for-2011.aspxThe hottest remodeling trends for 2011 You'll get the most out of your dollar by keeping an eye on what shows up in high-end homes. It’s the difference between Harvest Gold and rich wood. By Liz Pulliam Weston Rid your home of 'popcorn' ceilings Is carpet dead? Building permits pay off for sellers Have you overimproved your home? If you want to get the maximum value from your remodel when you sell your home, you need to pay attention to trends. But not just today's fads: what's more important is what will be hot when it's time to put your house on the market.   Home improvements, after all, start to date the moment they're completed. How fast their value slides may depend on your ability to forecast what will appeal to future buyers. Guess right, and the remodel you do today can look almost as cutting edge five or even 10 years from now. Guess wrong, and you've just spent thousands on the avocado-green, shag-carpeted, conversation pit turn-off of the future.   To navigate this minefield, keep in mind the following:   High-end homes drive the remodeling market. About 90% of the growth in remodeling industry over the last decade was, according to Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies, fueled by high-end homeowners (defined as those with houses worth $400,000 or more in 2003 dollars). The trends hatched in this market tend to percolate down to the middle market, said remodeling expert Jim Lapides of the National Association of Home Builders' Remodelors Council, and eventually are incorporated into the new-home market. So, if you want to know what will be in vogue in your neighborhood five years out, tour some open houses in more affluent communities to see what's happening there now.   Boomers are big, but GenXers are growing. Boomers own more of the housing stock and spend more on remodeling than other groups. But the cohort just behind them -- those born from 1965 to 1974 -- is coming on fast, according to Harvard's housing center. While aging boomers may be looking to downsize and make their lives easier, midlife GenXers might be looking for more space to handle growing families. If you want your house to appeal to the largest number of buyers, you may have to think about features that appeal to both groups.   Durability is key. Investing in quality materials can pay off if they hold up well over the years, said interior designer Juliana Catlin, past president of the American Society of Interior Designers and owner of Catlin Interiors in Jacksonville, Fla. A cheap surface might show so many gouges and dings after five years that a buyer will insist you pay for replacing it, while a well-chosen stone or tile surface could still be adding value a decade from now.   Consider the next buyer. One of the big trends in remodeling, particularly among GenXers, is making a personal statement, said Joan Stephens, chairman of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and owner of Stronghold Remodeling in Boise, Idaho. These homeowners don't want their kitchens or baths to look like anyone else's; they might invest big bucks in, say, custom glass-tile designs or bold-colored countertops.   But Catlin worries these personal statements will date quickly and alienate future buyers. "You have to think how it's going to translate for the next owners," Catlin said. "You may love your dark green countertop, but the next owner's favorite color could be yellow."   That's why Catlin advises homeowners who care about resale to choose more neutral colors for floors, countertops and other hard surfaces, using easily changeable paint and accessories to infuse personality.   Catlin also cautions against structural changes that can permanently devalue your home, like eliminating a bedroom or removing a tub from a bathroom (thus converting it from an all-important "full" bath to a three-quarters version).   Another tip: make your remodel more timeless by matching it to the style of your home. "A cottage-style home looks better with a cottage-style kitchen," Catlin said. "A Mediterranean kitchen looks better in a Mediterranean home." Be particularly cautious of any remodel that's a sharp contrast; an ultra-modern kitchen can look great if the rest of your house is sleek and uncluttered, but can look like a space ship landed if the rest of your home is shabby chic.   In the kitchen Highly polished granite and stainless steel were the hot trends in the 1990s -- so much so that now there's a backlash among high-end homeowners. Instead of gleam, remodelers are going for warmth, Stephens said   Color is hot right now, as in bright-red enameled stoves. But color trends are tricky to navigate, so a more conservative but still trendy choice might be panels that help refrigerators and dishwashers blend in with the cabinetry.   Higher-end appliances are also in big demand, Lapides said. Remodelers may not spend $6,000 on commercial-grade appliances, but they certainly want an upgrade from the entry level.   Stone countertops are still popular of course, but more homeowners are becoming wary of the drawbacks, said Vince Butler, chairman of the Remodelors Council. (Granite and other natural stones can be permanently stained by cooking oils and etched by common cleaners.) Butler said he is installing more synthetic or engineered stone countertops and seeing renewed interest in "solid surfaces" like Corian.   "It may not have the eye appeal [of granite] but I think as people live with it, it may be easier to take care of," Butler said.   Some, though, wonder if the monster/gourmet kitchen trend might begin to peter out, particularly among homes designed to appeal to older boomers.   "I think in the future people are going to be tired of cooking," said syndicated columnist and former builder Tim Carter, whose AsktheBuilder.com site focuses on remodeling as well as new construction issues. "It doesn't make much sense to invest $100,000 in a (kitchen remodel) if you don't cook that much."   For the frugal: The good news is that minor kitchen remodels actually seem to pay off better at resale time than major redos, at least according to Remodeling Magazine's annual Cost vs. Value survey (you can read about my reservations about this survey in "Remodeling risks often outweigh rewards"). Someone who spent an average $14,913 refacing cabinets, replacing laminate countertops and installing new cooktop, oven and sink in 2005 would recoup an estimated 98.5% of the cost on average if the home sold within a year, whereas someone who spent $81,552 on an upscale, tear-everything-out-and-replace-it remodel would recoup 84.8% on average. (Read more about cheap kitchen fix-ups here.)   The bath Utilitarian is out. Think spa -- as in lots of space, big soaking or whirlpool tubs, multiple shower heads or even steam attachments in the shower. Dual sinks are a given in master baths, and luxuries like heated floors and towel warmers are popular with upscale renovators. Many renovators are putting the toilet in a separate room or partitioned area.   Remodelers are also shelling out, big time, for custom tile, said Butler, who runs Butler Bros. remodeling company in Clifton, Va.   "It's the place where people are really expressing themselves," he said. "We've seen some master bathrooms where they spent $20,000 just on tile, and these are not extremely expensive homes. These are middle-class homes."   Be careful about going overboard if your primary goal is boosting resale value, however. The remodeling survey found a midrange remodel costing $10,499 would recoup 102.2% of its cost if the house sold within a year, while a more-elaborate $26,052 renovation would bring back 93.2%.   For the frugal: Adding multiple shower heads to a shower typically costs just a few hundred dollars, making it one of the most economical ways to add a spa feel. Also, try to avoid moving fixtures, since that can add enormously to a project's cost.   Underfoot Wood floors are still desirable, with bamboo becoming more popular. Tile is still a good choice for kitchens and baths, although concrete is being used more often (either stained or just sealed). In addition, high-end linoleum -- which sounds like an oxymoron, but isn't -- is being used in more fashionable homes.   For the frugal: Laminate flooring designed to look like wood can be less expensive and more durable than the real thing, but choose carefully: some of the products can look kind of cheesy, Carlin warned. If you have the real thing hiding under carpeting or other flooring, spring for refinishing to add real value to your home. (Read "Is carpet dead?" for more about flooring trends.)   Accessibility Contractors polled by the National Association of Home Builders said universal design -- making homes more accessible for the elderly and disabled -- would be one of the top future trends in remodeling (second only to the ever-rising cost of labor). Since most folks want to "age in place," making sure they can get around their homes as they age will be increasingly important.   Of course, baby boomers don't want to be reminded they're getting old, so one way to tout accessible design is to point out how their parents can benefit when they visit.   "When you're selling to that demographic, you kind of skirt the issue," Stephens said.   Fortunately, most aspects of universal design involve fairly subtle changes that add little if any cost to a remodeling project. Wider hallways and doorways, for example, are aesthetically pleasing as well as more functional when you're maneuvering a wheelchair, walker or even a big piece of furniture. (Ever try to get a king-sized bed or monster couch through a narrow door?)   Step-in showers, with no lip or tub wall separating them from the rest of the bathroom, can add to that spa feeling, while the extra lighting that can help aged eyes also makes the house feel brighter and more desirable.   For more ideas, check out the resources at AARP's site.   For the frugal: Again, universal design can be incorporated into virtually any remodel. Or you can tackle projects one by one, such as replacing regular doorknobs with lever-style handles, removing thresholds between rooms and adding better lighting.   Floor plans Open is still in and likely to remain so for the foreseeable future, design experts agree. Cooks don't want to be isolated in the kitchen, and open floor plans make even smaller homes feel roomier.   By contrast, the value of additions appears to be waning, at least according to the survey, which showed most projects that added square footage didn't pay off as well as other remodels. Carter, for one, expects that trend to continue if energy prices remain high.   "The cost to heat and cool a home in the future is going to be staggering," Carter predicted. "If we don't have any major improvements in insulation, the only way you're going to save money on heating and cooling is by having a smaller home."   For the frugal: Knocking down a few walls costs a lot less than adding square footage. If you're a do-it-yourselfer, though, make sure you're not destroying load-bearing walls.   Bonus rooms Carter thinks retired baby boomers are going to want workshops and hobby rooms to pursue their leisure-time passions. Lapides suggests that "Costco rooms" may be on the rise, as homeowners look for ways to store "all the 10-pound bags of pretzels they bought at Costco." The extra storage might be incorporated into a space that also serves as the laundry and mud rooms, Lapides said.   In fact, incorporating more storage throughout the house is likely to pay off, since our propensity to acquire stuff is unlikely to abate in the next decade.   Catlin also sees more houses incorporating home offices, which traditionally haven't added as much value as other remodeling projects. One solution is to build the office into the closet of a guest room, so later occupants have the flexibility to use the space the way they want.   For the frugal: You probably won't want to build rooms devoted to a single use, but adding shelves or cabinets can be an inexpensive way to increase a room's functionality.   The high-tech home Movies, video games and other content increasingly will be delivered via broadband, so Carter recommends installing conduit that can help future electricians run wires from wherever the cable or satellite enters to your house to the rooms where you have your computers and entertainment centers.   He also likes the idea of "electronics closets" to house all the home entertainment gear and minimize visual clutter. Sensors can be built into the wall above the TV screen to transmit your remote controls' signals to the gear in the closet.   Another wiring project that's hot, Stephens said, involves putting speakers throughout the house as well as outside.   For the frugal: Adding speaker wire is an inexpensive, if potentially messy, do-it-yourself job since you likely will be running wires through attics and crawlspaces.  Adding conduit is cheap if you've already got walls torn open for other projects; otherwise, hold off. MikeWed, 26 Nov 2008 23:37:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:12http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/8/kohler-faucet-trends.aspx#Comments0http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=86&ModuleID=432&ArticleID=8http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=8&PortalID=0&TabID=86http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/8/kohler-faucet-trends.aspxWhen it comes to faucets, installation type is a matter of logistics and the number of handles is a question of function, but the finish you choose is all about the look. When considering your bathroom décor, think of your faucets as accessories that reflect your personal style and complete your design vision.   A little faucet history Solid brass electroplated with chromium – more commonly referred to simply as chrome – became the standard for faucets in the 1930s and remains one of the most popular looks today. Sophisticated, tarnish-resistant and durable, chrome replaced nickel-plated brass as the faucet material of choice. Nickel fell out of favor in the first half of the 20th century because it wasn’t as durable as chrome. A relatively soft metal, nickel would rub off faucets after a period of use. Once the brass under the plating was exposed, it tarnished easily. Enlarge photo     Technological advances have led to the development of all types of finishes that are extremely durable. PVD (physical vapor deposition), the technology in use today, results in finishes that are even more resistant to abrasion than chrome plating. In fact, all KOHLER finishes exceed industry durability standards by more than two times.   Metal by metal The menu of faucet choices now available includes a smorgasbord of silver-tone finishes, as well as gold, bronze, mixed metals and brushed and hammered options. Read on for a few tips on using the different finish styles: Polished chrome is a classic finish that coordinates beautifully with a wide variety of fixture styles and types of décor. It works particularly well for evoking a nostalgic look, as in a 1920s- or other vintage-style bath, but also complements contemporary styles. Shiny like chrome, Vibrant Polished Nickel can be used in most of the same styles of décor, and is a favorite of Portland, OR, designer Sandy Hayes of Hayes Designs. "Polished nickel is a really sophisticated look that goes well with elegant furniture," she says. It works well with both traditional and contemporary styles, and can add an elegant touch to the bathroom.     Enlarge photo Brushed nickel has a warm appearance that appeals to homeowners looking for a bit of softness in the bath. It looks classic against white and coordinates well with granite or slate countertops and backsplashes. "People want the bathroom to feel like the rest of the house–warm and comfortable instead of a functional, sterile room where you just go to brush your teeth," says Seattle-based bath designer Christian Ursino. Another reason to like it: Matte finishes such as brushed nickel don’t show water spots or fingerprints as easily as some of the polished finishes. Even chromium plating has taken some updating, available now as brushed chrome, a variation on the traditional polished chrome finish. Enlarge photo     Bronze is another finish that goes equally well with traditional and contemporary décor. It can be particularly effective for a cabin style or other rustic look, or as a neutral for traditional-style baths. Bronze itself can come in a variety of shades, from Kohler’s lighter, rich Brushed Bronze, to the more recent introduction of the Oil-Rubbed Bronze and Brazen Bronze finishes. Certain period styles tend to coordinate well with hammered nickel. This finish, similar in color to brushed nickel, has a rough, hand-hewn feel that works particularly well with Craftsman or Mission styles.     Enlarge photo The rich look of Vibrant French Gold can provide a dramatic contrast to brilliant white fixtures. It goes well with period styles and complements decorated sinks with gold accents. Gold fixtures can add a luxurious accent to your bathroom. Vibrant Polished Brass provides an elegant note to traditional-style baths, and adds a rich feel to modern or transitional faucet models as well.   More than shiny metal Today’s faucet finishes go beyond metal. For example the KOHLER Vas® and Bol® faucets, both made of ceramic, are available in white and a choice of decorative patterns. Black is a dramatic faucet color choice that can be used to match wrought-iron details or as a neutral with brightly colored or patterned sinks. The Falling Water® faucet line, made for use with vessel-style sinks, is available in black. So are faucets in the Finial® faucet line, including the Finial Avian™ faucet, made to complement coordinating console tables.   Food for thought Chrome, bronze, nickel, gold or a combination of metals – how’s a homeowner to choose? Keep these things in mind when choosing a faucet finish: Choose a finish that is appropriate for the style of your fixtures, whether they are traditional, contemporary or transitional. Think about the big picture. Consider not just how the faucet finish will look against the color of your sink or tub, but also how it will look against the backsplash and the colors or patterns on your walls. This is especially important if you’ve chosen a faucet style that installs on the wall instead of to the sink. Enlarge photo     Coordinate your faucet finish with lighting and accessories. If you’ve already chosen bronze lighting fixtures, for example, it’s a good idea to choose bronze faucets and towel racks. Get what you want. Polished chrome is the most popular finish because of its ageless appeal and flexibility in coordinating with many different design styles—and also because it is least expensive. But if chrome isn’t your favorite finish, remember that the faucet is something you’ll be using every day. It’s better to opt for a look you’ll really love. Need more help with choosing a faucet? Use our bathroom faucet selection guide or browse a variety of faucet finishes.  MikeMon, 24 Nov 2008 23:18:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:8http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/5/color-trends.aspx#Comments0http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=86&ModuleID=432&ArticleID=5http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5&PortalID=0&TabID=86http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/5/color-trends.aspxColor Trends for 2008 Aug 24 2007 11:16AM | Permalink | Email this | Comments (0) | Blog This! using: Blogger.com | LiveJournal |   Painting a home in colors that trend right can create a modern, welcoming atmosphere for potential buyers. You want to make a home feel warm and inviting without choosing a style that is polarizing or alienating. Among the hottest color trends for 2008, one stands out as particularly easy to love: natural. Americans are looking for a soothing, softer, more natural home environment. Vegetable and mineral shades are becoming popular. Olive green, khaki and muddy tones are combined with icy blue nuances. In addition, the forecast calls for complicated, deep neutrals. Colors are more nuanced than the traditional beige, taupe, or cream. The lighting to match these subdued environments does not need to be minimal with no detail. There’s room for expression but ideally the lighting should not overwhelm the soothing, comfortable surroundings. Look for lighting fixtures that make the most of the beauty found in natural materials. Patterns and finishes that emulate nature do well in these more gentle habitats. An alabaster finish is a beautifully subtle look that delivers a luxurious feel. Blown glass has a timeless appeal and can provide a needed dash of color. Also a great match for soft neutrals, ceramics should not be overlooked. Table lamps and pendants can be placed at strategic points throughout a room to for an eye-catching, stimulating tableau. Iron is another material that is a right at home within a more subtle palette. The dark bulk of iron creates a lovely contrast with lighter hues while maintaining an emphasis on natural materials. Iron has a rich, deep finish that is a wonderful counterpoint to a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Lighting is a very effective way to re-emphasize and compliment the trend towards natural interior color. Redecorating to create a tranquil space of relaxed sophistication can ultimately inspire the inhabitants to slow down and really savor their time there. MikeSun, 23 Nov 2008 22:43:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3/Kitchen-Color.aspx#Comments0http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=86&ModuleID=432&ArticleID=3http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3&PortalID=0&TabID=86http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3/Kitchen-Color.aspx Kitchen Color Mike posted on November 22, 2008 16:41 It’s one of the easiest and most economical ways to heighten drama and interest in our homes. So why, then, does color seem to strike fear into the hearts of so many? “There are a lot of people out there who are color phobic, yet color gives you so much pleasure,” says Janet Davidson, ASID Allied Member and owner of Details in Design, in Wheaton, IL. “And, since you have so much wall space in a room, adding color is one of the most inexpensive ways to create a dramatic change.”   Setting the wheel in motion When creating a color scheme for a room, the place most designers start is the color wheel. Basically the rainbow wrapped around a circle, a color wheel visually demonstrates how colors interact with each other and offers harmonious options in combining colors in a single space – whether the desired outcome is soft and mellow or full of energy. Enlarge photo     If you’re feeling bold, for example, you might opt for a complementary scheme – a high-contrast look that features two colors on opposite sides of the color wheel. Think of the vibrancy found in a kitchen of yellow and blue. On the other hand, if you’re looking to create a sophisticated, elegant feeling in a room, a monochromatic scheme, which uses different values or intensities of a single color, might be the answer. Take the same kitchen and swap out the blue for ochre and cream. Identical space, but a completely different feel. Whichever route you decide to go, a wide variety of cast iron color options makes it easy to match the kitchen sink to your personal tastes. “People should keep it simple, just go with [the colors] they like,” says Davidson. “I always look at a client’s home and wardrobe. It’s easy to spot colors they like to use as a starting point.”   Color me happy     Enlarge photo Color does more than add life and personality to a space, it sets the mood for the entire room. Red denotes a sense of passion. Yellow is vibrant and happy. And nothing says “regal” quite like purple. Colors even seem to give off their own “temperature” - red and orange are considered warm, whereas blue and green feel cool. “If you took a sunroom and painted it yellow, people sitting in it would feel warmer than if the same room were painted blue,” says Davidson. “Blue is just much more calming. It’s like watching the waves roll in on the beach.” This sense of energy that comes from a warm color, such as orange or Enlarge photo     yellow, may explain why they’re popular choices for kitchens today. They’re colors that inspire hunger and heat, whereas blue actually represses the urge to eat. “If you want to lose weight, don’t use red in a kitchen,” she says.   The great cover up In the same way women use makeup to highlight their best features (and disguise their flaws), color can take your home to the next level, highlighting a room’s architecture or creating visual interest where none exists. To emphasize a tray ceiling, pick one color, then use a darker shade of it on the tray and a lighter value of it on the ceiling. The result will add depth and create a focal point in the room.     Enlarge photo Color can even change the space itself. Since warm colors tend to jump forward and cool hues recede, a carefully chosen color palette can make the room seem bigger or balance the shape of the space. “I had a client who had a very long room – like a bowling alley,” says Davidson. “We painted the far wall a darker color and the side walls lighter to visually balance the room.” And what about the long-held belief that painting a small room a deep color will make it seem smaller? Toss it out. According to Davidson, using different values of a dark color in a small space will actually make the room feel bigger. Adding texture in the chosen color can add depth and interest and keep the eye moving. “If your eye is bored, it’s not good design,” she says. “That’s why we use color.” MikeSat, 22 Nov 2008 22:06:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4/Bathroom-Remodeling-Trends.aspx#Comments0http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=86&ModuleID=432&ArticleID=4http://mhmremodeling.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4&PortalID=0&TabID=86http://mhmremodeling.com/HelpfulLinks/TipsTrends/RemodelingTrends/tabid/86/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4/Bathroom-Remodeling-Trends.aspx21 10 Bath Remodeling Trends host posted on November 21, 2008 18:10     Everything old is new again as vintage bath components -- including tiles, sinks, and tubs -- make a refreshing return Vintage nickel fixtures are versatile and sleek. This retro set is by Restoration Hardware. Wall-mount faucets, like this Kohler model, offer streamlined style and simplified plumbing. Ornamental borders and other old-world touches are making a comeback. This example is from Walker Zanger's Gramercy Park collection. Pharmacy cabinets, like this one by Restoration Hardware, make practical additions. by Nancy Staab 1. Shapely tubs: From the claw foot and pedestal to the graceful boat-shaped bateau, curvaceous tubs are reconfiguring the look of the bathroom. Custom finishes include colored enamel and copper, as well as leather wraps. 2. Nickel fixtures: This sleek metal suits many types of fixtures, from faucets to sconces. Available in brushed-satin, matte, and pearl finishes, it matches a variety of settings, including marble and stainless steel. 3. Wall-mounted faucets: This trend is the ultimate in streamlined style. Wall- or mirror-mounted faucets appeal to the desire for clean design without complicated plumbing. Combine these faucets with an artisanal raised sink bowl (another hot trend) to up the style ante. 4. Shimmering effects: Designers are taking a shine to the array of decorative glass tiles and mosaics on the market and are using them either as an accent or to cover an entire wall. The tiles come in colored, clear, and iridescent finishes. New metallic and mother-of-pearl tiles are also adding modern sheen to the bath. 5. Mirrored surfaces: The glamour of the Art Deco era is seeing a revival with a flood of mirrored cabinets, furnishings, accessories, and even tub surrounds. Mirrored treatments elevate the bathroom from basic to bombshell. 6. Pharmacy cabinets: These freestanding cabinets are the perfect bathroom accompaniment. They store everything from toiletries to towels with retro flair. 7. Frameless glass showers: The new seamless glass showers with minimal framing complement any bathroom décor. The illusion of pure transparency makes a small bath seem larger. 8. Classic subway tiles: These vintage-style tiles, shaped like bricks and set in a staggered "running bond" fashion, are making a big comeback in kitchens and baths. Designers are opting for the black-and-white tiles for a crisp, clean look. 9. Old-world embellishments: After years of Zen-spa minimalism, elements of the old-world style look fresh again. Classic console sinks, European-style fixtures, and ornamental borders are returning with a vengeance. 10. High-tech bathing: Convert your shower experience from so-so to sybaritic with a steam generator and rain dome. Add even more luxury with an all-purpose shower stack that has multiple heads, body sprays, and adjustable settings. Bathing also borders on the decadent with whirlpool jets, deep soaking overflow tubs, and chroma-therapy color washes. Towel warmers and electric radiant-heat flooring will help to smooth the transition from hot to cold.   Source: SouthernAccess.com: http://www.southernaccents.com/accents/homes/decorating/article/0,14743,596022,00.html MikeFri, 21 Nov 2008 22:08:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4