Category: Renovations
Choosing a Kitchen Backsplash
A kitchen remodel is a big undertaking so it’s important that you consider every detail along the way. Your kitchen backsplash probably won’t break the bank, but it has the potential to complement big-ticket items like your countertops and cabinets. Here are five things to consider when choosing a kitchen backsplash so it fits seamlessly into your beautifully designed space.
1. How Much Space Will Your Backsplash Cover?
When considering the design of the backsplash and selecting your backsplash materials, it’s best to approach it already knowing the area it will cover so you can make decisions that stay within your budget. Some materials, like a stone backsplash, are much more expensive than others, and they’re also harder to install—which makes it more labor-intensive (adding to the expense). Small, decorative tiles are also pricey, so while a lovely glass backsplash might make sense in a small space or as an accent, it may not be a practical choice financially to cover a large area.
Project Spotlight: A Fabulous Finished Basement
Erick and Erica are second owners of a home built by Metzler Home Builders. They loved their home but desired additional living space and decided to pursue the idea of a finished basement. Their uniquely shaped lot and home layout provided allowed them to accomplish four things on their wish list for their basement: a library/game room, a playroom, a media room and storage space. They also wanted to incorporate into the space a bathroom, a wet bar and a Murphy bed.
Tim Zehr drew up a plan for the basement, which included all the desired items. Erick and Erica were impressed with the plan and the proposal and felt like they were getting the best “bang for the buck” in having Metzler’s undertake the project. They were willing to pay for the quality they expected to have in the finished product.
Gorgeous & Functional Kitchen Ideas
The kitchen is not just for preparing meals. Some of the fondest family moments occur in this room as you try a new recipe or share a plate with your loved ones. The kitchen is also an expression of your lifestyle. Cabinets, countertops, and floorplan designs reflect your style and personality. The good news is you can create a gorgeous and functional kitchen—one of your dreams—regardless of its size. Here are some ideas to consider before you meet with any remodeling firm about a kitchen remodeling project.
Pick a Neutral Color
Neutrals are so versatile, and a neutral kitchen can be the perfect canvas to personalize your space, with colorful rugs, glassware, drawer pulls, fixtures and more.
Project Spotlight: A Haven for Outdoor Living Lovers
Michael and Sharon are outdoor-loving people. They enjoy entertaining family and friends, grilling or just relaxing outside listening to music. They purchased a home several years ago that Metzler Home Builders had built just a few years before that. The original back porch was not adequate for their entertaining needs. They decided to add an outdoor living area with a covered patio and wanted it to look like it was built with the original home. Since they were from out of the area, they weren’t familiar with Metzler’s. They knew they had a quality-built home, though, and since Metzler’s had the blueprints and specifics of the original materials used in construction, it was an easy decision on who to use for their patio project. Tim Zehr, the Senior Designer/Estimator, created CADD drawings of the existing home with the new covered patio. Michael and Sharon were able to make changes to the CADD drawing to suit their taste and budget before the project began.
Leading Bathroom Design Trends
The bathroom can be one of the most used rooms of the house. It’s also a room that requires special attention to comfort and durability, as well as functionality. Bathroom trends have changed drastically over the years and will continue to do so. Here are some of the most popular bathroom design trends that are influencing current design.
Touchless Sensors and Smart Home Controls
Smart home technology for the bathroom is a growing trend with no signs of slowing anytime soon. Approximately 12.8 million people in the U.S. use voice assistance, such as Alexa, Google and Siri, at least monthly, according to eMarketer, and the bathroom is no exception. With voice control, you can adjust smart lighting or use your smartphone to update a music selection. Smart showers allow you to digitally control the water temperature, so you never have to step into a scalding hot shower again. Rain showerheads with LED lighting and Bluetooth built-in speakers can set the mood. Motion sensor faucets and smart toilets make a beautiful addition to any bathroom.
Wall Mount Floating Vanities
Although the crisp lines of floating vanities are generally seen as contemporary, the versatility in storage, along with an array of configurations, make wall mount floating vanities an attractive choice for any bathroom. Because they do not take up any floor space, they create an airy, clean feeling in the space. They also make cleaning the bathroom floors much easier.
Large-Format Tiles
Tiny mosaic tiles are beautiful, but there is a growing movement toward large-format tiles on bathroom walls. This tile style can make a room feel luxurious. With fewer grout lines, not only is it easier to clean, but it takes less material to achieve the same visual effect.
Wood-Look Tiles and Heated Flooring
According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) report, porcelain and ceramic continue to be top-ranking materials for the bathroom, much in part to their versatility. As a result, consumers can expect to see more use of porcelain and ceramic tiles that mimic natural hardwood and marbles, as biophilic design continues to gain momentum, particularly in the bathroom. While not new, heated flooring has become increasingly popular. Not only do they offer that spa-like touch, but they are great for keeping your feet warm.
Space-Saving Soaking Tubs
While showers are still taking up more of the bathroom layout footprint, the tub is no longer sacrificed. The pandemic has only increased homeowners’ desire for relaxation, making soaking tubs a top bathroom feature. The Houzz bathroom trends study notes that freestanding, flat-bottom tubs will be more popular than clawfoot models or other decorative bases; many options do more in less space.
Backlit Mirror and Medicine Cabinets
According to Houzz, 77% of homeowners install new mirrors during a major bathroom renovation, and most now choose illuminated mirrors that offer soft ambient lighting without adding unwanted glare or reflections. When dimmed, this embedded feature can double as a nighttime bedroom nightlight.
Smart Toilets
According to the NKBA 2021 design trends report, smart toilets and bidets are becoming more common in post-pandemic bathroom design. Smart toilets have self-closing lids and touch-free flushing, which greatly reduces touching surfaces that typically have a lot of germs. Some even offer self-cleaning technology, such as a bacteria-killing light under the lid.
Ready to dive into your bathroom design project? Contact us to schedule a consultation.
Fireplace Surround Options
Cooler temperatures have arrived and with that, fireplace use will be kicking into high gear once again. Those people with fireplaces can enjoy a cozy atmosphere, have warmth when electricity is interrupted, cut energy costs and be eco-friendly. Those with wood-burning fireplaces can even heat their coffee or soup on the woodstove! Sixty percent of new homes now have some type of fireplace and that number is rising. If you don’t currently have one, you may want to weigh the benefits and decide if a fireplace (and fireplace surround) is a good fit for your home.
There are many different options to consider when installing a fireplace in your home – whether it’s a new build or an existing home. There are gas units, wood-burning units, blower options, remote options, decorative liners, and many different sizes and applications (see-through, three-sided, outdoor, etc.) Aside from the unit itself, there are also various options for what surrounds the fireplace. Many times this is what dictates the look and feel the fireplace will have in your home, more so than the unit itself. A quick run-down on the “anatomy” of a fireplace surround will help you when selecting a style and finish for your fireplace.
Starting from the bottom up, the HEARTH is essentially the “floor” of the fireplace and extends beyond the firebox and into the room. It can be flush with the floor or raised up off the floor. Slate, flagstone and brick are some favorite materials for a hearth.
The SURROUND is the area outside the fireplace unit itself on the wall. Popular materials for a surround are formed stone, brick, tile, granite and slate. The materials for the surround can extend the height of the mantle or be installed floor to ceiling for a more dramatic look.
The MANTLE is the shelf above the fireplace unit. The mantle can have “legs” or be a free-standing shelf. A simply painted mantle with legs provides clean lines that will accompany most any style. A more rustic look can be achieved by using a piece of reclaimed lumber or old barn beam as a shelf mantle.
Check out the pictures of some of our favorite fireplace surrounds from a few completed projects.
Project Spotlight: Finished Basements
Finished basements are a great way of increasing living space to your home without building an addition. Basement renovation projects give you your best value per square foot and add to the value of your home. A basement is a blank slate before renovating – you can do whatever you like regarding design, color, style – and it doesn’t need to match the rest of the house. Let your imagination run wild! You can create a game room, an entertaining space for parties, a theater room, a kids’ playroom, or a “man cave” – truly, the possibilities are endless. Take a look at these finished basements we’ve completed recently and let us help you get started thinking about the potential your basement has to offer.
6 Signs It’s Time to Remodel Your Bathroom
People remodel their bathrooms for different reasons. These include making the space more functional, adding style, enhancing safety and incorporating luxury features. Depending on the changes you intend to make, the process may involve small upgrades or a complete makeover. However, your mission should be to transform your bathroom into a space you will love. But how will you know it is time to upgrade your bathroom?
Here are some signs to look out for.
Lack of Storage Space
Storage is an important feature in any bathroom design. As the number of people and items in your house increases, the available storage space may not meet your changing needs. If you lack adequate storage, you can consider remodeling the room to fit your storage needs.
The right storage solutions will provide clever ways to store bathroom necessities. This will help you prevent clutter, effectively keeping your bathroom organized and tidy. Proper storage will also ensure that everything is within easy reach.
Visible Damage
Your bathroom is one of the most used rooms in your home. If you have been using the room for years, there is a good chance problems will start to arise. Some signs of obvious damage are leaks; persistent odor; mold; worn-out décor; and cracked, chipped or missing tiles. Some of these issues may be indications of more serious underlying problems.
Once you notice any of these problems, you should take action immediately. A remodeling project will provide an opportunity to make the necessary repairs. This will prevent the problem from getting worse, and keep your bathroom safe and sanitary.
An Outdated Design
Bathroom design trends are constantly evolving. Choosing the right design and products will go a long way in ensuring your space is practical and functional. When your bathroom design is outdated or no longer matches your taste, this is a sign that a remodel is overdue. Signs your bathroom is old-fashioned include outdated color schemes, old fixtures and a dysfunctional layout.
Undertaking a remodeling project is a great way to make your bathroom look modern. This way, the space will reflect your personal taste.
Poor Lighting
In past years, lighting was generally an afterthought when it came to bathroom design. However, lighting has a huge impact on the functionality and ambiance of your bathroom. If the lighting is either too bright or too dim, it may be time for a remodel.
To ensure your bathroom is well-lit, you should consider adding a vanity mirror, installing extra lighting fixtures or having more windows. The good news is that you can customize your bathroom lighting to fit your unique needs.
Lifestyle Changes
Your needs are bound to change with time. You may outgrow the space if a spouse moves in, you have your first child or an aged parent moves in with you. When the number of people in your home increases, your bathroom may feel cramped. This will make it difficult to use the available space efficiently.
A bathroom remodel can involve choosing a more functional design or moving walls to expand the space. This will allow you to carry out various tasks more easily.
High Utility Bills
A bathroom remodel can save you a significant amount of money in terms of electricity and water bills. If your utility bills have been increasing over time, it is probably time to upgrade your bathroom. You can lower utility costs by choosing energy-efficient and environmentally friendly materials. Replacing inefficient pipes and fixtures will also help you reduce your electricity and water usage.
A bathroom remodel can be an expensive and complex process. This is why you should want to make sure that the job is done right the first time around. Hiring a professional remodeling company, like us, will help you avoid costly mistakes, enjoy a seamless process and achieve satisfactory results.
Contact us so we can learn more about your specific needs and make a plan together.
How Kitchen Material Selections Affect Indoor Air Quality
The things you put inside your home can greatly affect your health. Building materials, stains and paints, flooring, furniture, fabrics, and glues can all impact your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ). These pollutants are called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They can cause respiratory irritation, headaches or other health problems. However, with the proper information and using the expert guidance of your remodeling professional, you can reduce indoor pollutants in your home.
The Kitchen
Items in the kitchen can have VOCs being emitted into the air, degrading the indoor air quality. These compounds can be emitted from the countertops, cabinets and flooring.
Not to worry, though. If this is a concern for you, there are ways to improve the indoor air quality in your kitchen simply by making smart material choices.
Countertop Materials
Countertops can contain additives that can break down and re-release themselves into the environment. For that reason, keep these points in mind during discussions with your professional remodeling firm on how countertops can be less intrusive to your home environment.
- Countertops that are made of natural stone (i.e., granite, slate, marble) or wood are the most sustainable and low-emitting options.
- Look for finishes that demonstrate the use of low chemical or particle emissions. Additionally, select a finish that is water-based and low-VOC rated as opposed to a petroleum distillate.
- Ask your contractor to use an adhesive that is low-VOC rated to install the countertops. Or, instead of adhesives, they may consider mechanical fasteners instead.
Kitchen Cabinets
There are many articles online about how kitchen cabinets contain formaldehyde, which is used in the adhesives to bind composite wood. This is true, but it’s not something to be scared of once you fully understand the context. According to the Kitchen Cabinets Manufacturers Association (KCMA):
“All wood species, and therefore all wood products, contain and emit small amounts of formaldehyde. An oak tree, for example, emits 9 parts per billion (ppb) of formaldehyde … Formaldehyde also is found in a wide range of fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, seafood, meats and coffee.”
All cabinetmakers use composite wood in the construction of cabinets, but they are not the only ones to use composite wood in construction. It is a vital material for the industry as a whole, but it is especially essential with cabinetmakers who build cabinets. Urea-formaldehyde adhesives are used to bind these materials together, which allow them to stand up to the durability and performance that homeowners expect while providing an appealing aesthetic.
Although you usually cannot avoid composite wood totally, this industry is regulated. Since 2013, all pressed wood sold in the United States must be California Air Resource Board (CARB) compliant, made with ultra-low emitting formaldehyde (ULEF) or no-added formaldehyde (NAF). These standards are the lowest in the world!
Keep in mind that although we are discussing kitchen cabinets, formaldehyde can be emitted from many other products you bring into the home. Here are some actions you can take to minimize exposure to formaldehyde:
- Ventilation is key when introducing any new products into the home. Open windows to bring in the fresh air and use fans to circulate the air. Keep in mind that the best-ventilated rooms in the home are already the kitchen and bath.
- Wood holds up best when heat and humidity are consistent. Monitor humidity levels in the winter and summer, which tend to be extremes of dry and humid, respectively.
Flooring Materials
Here are some things to consider when you are choosing flooring options for your home.
- Polished concrete or tile are great choices for zero-VOC, as they are inert and do not emit anything toxic.
- Most brands of engineered wood are eco-friendly with low-VOC. Look for a plywood or solid slat core, and a stain/varnish that is zero-VOC.
- Natural linoleum is made of all-natural products and is one of the greenest flooring options available today.
- For other parts of the home, natural wood floors are a great low-VOC choice, although it isn’t always the best option for the kitchen and bathrooms because of wet conditions.
- If you choose to lay down rugs on the hardwood or ceramic tile flooring, avoid synthetic or vinyl rugs. These emit higher amounts of VOCs.
Thoughtful selection choices during the renovation process can greatly improve your home’s indoor air quality. We can help you make selections based on wellness, durability and aesthetic appeal.
Contact us so we can learn more about your specific needs and make a plan together.
Kitchen Design with Aging in Place in Mind
One of the most important rooms in our homes is the kitchen. It’s a room where we can spend hours cooking and baking, entertaining friends and family, or just relaxing with a cup of coffee while reading or watching television. Having an attractive, functional kitchen that also accommodates aging-in-place needs will be sure to provide you with many years of enjoyment.
Today’s Americans are forward-thinkers and are renovating their homes with aging-in-place in mind—both for themselves and for houseguests, like a parent or older relative. There are many innovative yet simple ways you can revolutionize your kitchen design to gain safety and maneuverability without sacrificing style.
Choosing the Right Flooring
With aging comes the increased risk of injuries and tripping. When reviewing your flooring options, keep these factors in mind:
- Select kitchen flooring that’s non-glare, as they are less visually-distracting than shiny ones that could cause someone to trip.
- Choose flooring materials that offer maximum grip. Vinyl and porcelain are two popular slip-resistant flooring options, as is luxury vinyl flooring (LVF). LVF is known to be more slip-resistant and comes in an array of designs and hues.
- Kitchens typically have a lot of traffic. Therefore, make sure your desired flooring is easy to clean and maintain.
- Avoid accessorizing your flooring with products that pose a trip hazard, like throw rugs and padded carpets.
Incorporate Proper Lighting
To ensure safety when executing tasks in your kitchen, your kitchen needs to be well-lit. When possible, always opt for more lighting than less. Lighting should not be an after-thought. It should be designed, just like the rest of the kitchen.
Opt for accessible and easy-to-use light switches and position them near the kitchen entrance within arm’s reach. The placement should also ensure users can switch on the light without bumping into sharp edges and appliances. You may consider installing automatic or rocker-type light switches. Windows will allow natural light to stream into your kitchen. If privacy is a concern, you can install blinds that still allow in soft natural light without compromising privacy.
Make Cabinets More Accessible
Cabinets should be easy to reach by all, and today, there are many cabinet storage options that aid in accessibility—no matter the age of the user. There is no need to get down on your hands and knees or stretch on your tippy-toes to reach.
For tall upper cabinets, a pullout step can be added. This step is installed on the underside of the base cabinets and eliminates the need to pull out the stepstool from the pantry. Additionally, pull-down shelves are a great design feature that give those upper cabinets enhanced maneuverability and accessibility.
Pull-out organizers designed for base cabinets offer a variety of storage options. Blind corner optimizers, like the one pictured, maximize the corner cabinet storage space and provide easy accessibility.
In aging-in-place kitchen design, we often avoid installing cabinets right above the stove. Leaning over a hot surface increases the risk of injury.
Choosing the Right Handles
As we age, the functionality of our hands deteriorates. When it comes to cabinet pulls and handles, choose D-shaped ones that provide a better grip. Same with selecting appliances. The handles on your oven and dishwasher should also be designed specifically for those who may not be able to firmly grasp with their hands.
Consider Your Countertop Options
For aging-in-place, it is much more than simply choosing a countertop. The design of the kitchen layout for conducting kitchen tasks safely, as well as the height of the countertops, are also a consideration.
One way to increase accessibility in your kitchen is by designing it with varying counter heights. This allows family members who may need to sit, such as the elderly or pregnant, to easily prepare meals while also giving young children a place to stand and “help” at your side. The variety of height also adds depth and aesthetic appeal to the room. In order for these counters to be easy-to-clean, they should be made from solid surface material.
Kitchens are the heart of the home, but often more in the sense that they’re a central gathering space. While it’s important to think about your kitchen design now, renovations should also consider what you’ll need for years to come. That way, no matter how much time passes and what changes occur in your life, you can still cook with ease and love every minute of it.
Contact us so we can learn more about your specific needs and make a plan together.