Introduction
As savvy homeowners remodel, they are doing so with an eye to the future. Investment
potential is obviously one major factor. Another could be changes undertaken to
accommodate later needs, for example to make it easier for seniors to cope.
Remodeling a home covers a range of possibilities, from upgrading a bathroom to extending a living room to completely modernizing a kitchen. Along with the decision to upgrade goes the cost.
The average budget for a kitchen upgrade, says Remodeling magazine, is somewhere in the region of $54,000.
Even a ‘minor” alteration could cost $18,000. For a bedroom,
a homeowner will pay out $44,000, a game room, something like
$56,000; a bathroom overhaul could end up costing $38,000
and a living room addition would reach $75,000.
The nature of the upgrades also varies. Everyone wants something “new,” but the concept changes
with each homeowner. Some homeowners want to go beyond the traditional look, seeming to prefer
a transitional style with earth colors, rich fabrics and clean lines. Others want kitchens that look sleek, efficient and ultra-modern. Some people want a large bathroom with dual-flush toilets and minimalist fittings; others want a complete home spa with either multiple steam showers or gently flowing water reminiscent of a quiet backwater.
One thing is certain: nothing is excluded from the decision. This includes a new range of colors, wall
coverings, lighting options, “smart” appliances such as Sub-Zero refrigerators and temperature controls. And more and more homeowners are showing an interest in environmentally-friendly products. The surge in remodeling is likely to go on for years to come.
Design Trends
How do you tell the difference between a trend and a fad? Trends are slow to develop.
A fad doesn’t have staying power.
Eco-Friendly Design
Water-based paints and varnishes, Formaldehyde-free MDF, Low VOC paints, Low voltage halogen lighting, Renewable fabrics – cork, bamboo, cane, Architectural salvage and vintage fabrics.
Color
Colors are becoming more natural. Subtle tone-on-tone textured and stenciled walls, Metallic shades, Global Design, Rich textiles with geometric patterns such as chevrons, checks, graphic weaves, Ethnic prints and patterns.
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Cover
Focus
With its Asian-influenced wall and window treatments, this
bathroom melds a contemporary and futuristic design comfort
and simplicity of line. Courtesy of the Kohler Co.
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Footloose
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Student News
High School Student Makes
CCAC Dean’s List
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