What’s up with roofing? Most people don’t think about their roof until it leaks or the home inspector tells the buyer there are problems! Properly done, a roof in Arizona (This varies greatly by climate.) can last 30 – 40 years with proper maintenance. Check for cracks or other damage every year and repair when necessary.
Office Seating Option
Do you spend long hours sitting at your computer? Stability balls have been around for some time, but computer use is making them more popular. The Technogym, Wellness Ball, Gaiam, Buoy from Turnstone, Muvman and Swopper from Aeris are some ergonomic options for increased well being.
Exercise ball vs Office chair.
Crystals Galore!
Stark Carpet manufactures this black wool carpet embedded with Swarovski crystals. This is a very popular area rug for powder rooms and is also used as borders on larger rugs. Yes, it can be vacuumed. Always use a self-adjusting vacuum as the vacuum should not drag on your carpet or it will wear the surface.
Exterior Details
Natural stone and other fireplace and exterior detailing materials are usually specified by the architect. Visit local sources for inspiration or take pictures of your preferences to local sources to check availability and cost. Plan ahead to secure products that will give your home the unique, individualized look you want. These materials affect exterior and interior colorization as does pool coping. Travertine is available in pre cut pieces. Brick. flagstone, slate, pavers and Marabella stone that is saw cut or honed are also popular. Concrete (Ancient Stone) precast pieces are also available.
More Storage Is Available!
What was a bi-fold door closet at the top of the stairs with drywall above is much more interesting as well as useful in its new configuration. There is luggage storage in the lower cabinets. A marble shelf in the center section is filled with photos and albums that can be exposed or closed. Holiday items are stored in the top section which has an expanded recess for added depth. It is now more interesting and spacious with better storage for specific needs.
Do You Really Need a Designer?
Can a designer save you money? That’s a resounding yes! As the quote warns “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” Throwing money at all details does not always create the defined focal points that separate a great look from a confusing one. Scale is so important! Great architects have it as do great designers. But a lot of input on interiors, especially remodels, come from other resources and may never achieve the room’s potential regardless of the money spent.
Do Failing Kitchen Appliances Mean Kitchen Remodel?
What a dilemma! An appliance is failing and needs to be replaced immediately! Recently, a client’s built-in refrigerator was doing just that. The replacement got here before the old one died but that was just the beginning of the work! New wood panels had to be made and anew handle for the door secured that was 12” or longer to ensure the client could open the refrigerator. (By the way, the client had been told that it was not possible to open the refrigerator handle being attached to the wood panel. It was awkward but not difficult.) Some cabinet makers will work from the spec sheets and others want to measure the actual appliance. We got the wood panels started and found handles in stock. However, once it was all together, the doors would not open wide enough for the drawers to slide out! The countertop was designed 15 years ago with a bullnose extension to the old refrigerator/cabinet edge. This bullnose was removed at a cost of $200+/- so the refrigerator door would open wider. A notch was also made in the baseboard on the opposite side for the same reason. All totaled, the new refrigerator and customization totaled $10,000. Now the kitchen is good for another 15 years.
When appliances start to fail, a total kitchen remodel is a consideration. If you like your cabinets and countertops and everything is in good condition, there is no reason to change everything at once. Check your warranties for replacement times when considering your best options. Trim kits allow for new microwaves. Ovens are standard sizes. Dishwashers can usually be made to fit it. Often in luxury homes, dishwashers have wooden panels so your cabinet maker and perhaps a longer handle will be needed for functionality. Factory authorized repair companies give good advice as your appliances age. Most of the luxury appliance brands prefer that you work with an authorized dealer as they prefer repairs done by a company that knows the product line.
Outdoor Options from Kalamazoo Gourmet
Kalamazoo Gourmet has a countertop pizza oven, outdoor-rated dishwasher and other great outdoor options!
