With Christmas on my mind and rapidly approaching, I would like to share with you a fun website I came across that I think many of you will enjoy. It's one of the History Channel's minisites. This site highlights the topic of Christmas.
http://www.history.com/minisites/christmas/
When you arrive at the site you will be taken to Christmas at the White House. This I believe is a fitting topic with events around the White House currently being in the news. Surfing this site you will discover many interesting facts about Christmas. One that struck me was the Christmas truce of 1914. It touched my heart and made me think of our soldiers in the Middle East. If only we again could attempt a holiday ceasefire. 'Tis the season ... to dream big.
On this site you will learn how the tradition of Christmas trees began. There are yummy Christmas treat recipes, holiday how-to's, and if you wish, you can even do some shopping for the History buffs on your list.
I hope you find this site entertaining and informative. Also, my hope is that this holiday season fills your spirit with wonderment and joy - that it is truly a time to remember. Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Seven Tips for Maximizing Your Remodeling Budget
Seven Tips for Maximizing Your Remodeling Budget
We’re celebrating National Kitchen and Bath Month
October is National Kitchen and Bath Month, bringing heightened attention to the two rooms most often remodeled in homes across America. In honor of National Kitchen and Bath Month, we offering seven key tips to help homeowners make the most of their remodeling budget.
Remodeling was a $275 billion industry in the United States last year and continues to grow and there are key things that homeowners can do to get the most bang for that buck. A little planning and education at the start can go a long way to realizing one’s remodeling dreams.
Below are DreamMaker’s seven tips for maximizing a remodeling budget:
Have a specific BUDGET in mind before you take on a remodeling project. This sets the proper boundaries for you and your remodeler.
When hiring a PROFESSIONAL, ask friends for reliable referrals, request to see examples of past work and contact old customers to get feedback. Check out the remodeling contractor with the government Consumer Affairs Office and the Better Business Bureau.
Ask to see a copy of the contractor’s certificate of INSURANCE. Most states require that the contractor carry worker’s compensation, property damage, and personal liability insurance.
Get a signed CONTRACT that you and your remodeler agree upon. The contract should address expected start and substantial completion dates, include a list of what materials will be used for the project, and detail what the contractor will and will not do.
Before making changes to a project – what remodelers call a CHANGE ORDER -- find out how it will impact the cost and the expected completion date. Get a written copy of the change order.
Agree upon the TIMEFRAME of a remodeling project. Any disruption can be an inconvenience, but don’t let it be an uneducated surprise that goes on longer than you expected.
Do a WALKTHROUGH with your remodeler after the project is finished so each one is satisfied with the results. If anything does not meet with your approval, this is the best time to point it out.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
With Gas Prices High, Consumers Warm To The Idea Of Eating In
I found this article recently from the ChicagoTribune. It speaks to what everyone is experiencing nationwide - the crunch due to high gas prices and how we are all changing our habits accordingly. One of the biggest trends in America today is that of consumers choosing to entertain in their homes rather than going out to eat at expensive restaurants. We are finding this to be true here at home in Colorado Springs. Many of our clients tell us that one of their main reasons for renovating and beautifying their homes is because they would like to cook more and have friends and family over, but had not because they were embarassed of their outdated kitchen and bath. After their remodel is complete we often hear how they wish they would have done it sooner because they are finding that they do entertain and enjoy having people over more than ever.
I hope you find this as interesting and informative as I did. Bon Appetit!
—Associated Press
September 21, 2008
The high price of gas has consumers testing their cooking skills to save money—going to the grocery store more frequently instead of eating out, packing lunch for work and experimenting with new recipes at home.About 45 percent of Americans are eating out less this year to save money, a nearly 12 percent increase from 2007, according to BIGResearch, a Worthington, Ohio-based firm that does consumer research. "Consumers are really pulling back right now. They're really watching their pockets," said one of the firm's senior analysts, Pam Goodfellow.
Sales are cookingThe sudden rush to buy cooking necessities has driven up sales of cookbooks, inexpensive cookware and the basic foods needed to concoct a meal. And cooking magazines and Web sites are booming even as magazine sales overall have suffered. Cookware sales as a whole have declined in the past year, but items selling for less than $100 are doing "remarkably well," said Florence Sheffer, spokeswoman for the cookware distributor Meyer Corp. in Vallejo, Calif. Cast-iron cookware in that price category, for instance, has recorded a 19 percent sales increase over a year ago, the most popular being those with celebrity chef name tags. "That suggests to me there are probably a lot of new cooks entering, because I think a lot of the people watching the Food Network ... are really just opening up to the idea of cooking," Sheffer said.
Food-centered salesFurther evidence is a boost in sales of "center store" items in supermarkets: pasta, canned goods, baking goods and spices. Such sales have risen by 3.4 percent in recent months, said Thom Blischok, president of IRI Consulting and Innovation in Chicago.
Hungry for recipesBon Appetit, a magazine that serves up recipes for everything from gourmet meals to fast and easy dinners, said newsstand sales in May were up 39 percent from a year ago. Borders Group Inc. said cookbook sales were up in the second quarter of this year, which ended in June, over the first quarter. Amazon.com has seen double-digit growth in book sales in the food, cooking and wine category during this past year, said spokeswoman Tammy Hovey. Mary Davis, a Borders corporate affairs manager, said sales of "comfort food cookbooks," covering baking, cookies and desserts have seen double-digit sales increases in the past year. "These are dishes that require a time commitment to prepare and bake, suggesting people are staying at home," she said.
Taking stockBecause of the eating-in trend, some casual dining restaurants are taking a hit in stock price and sales, said Lynne Collier, a senior restaurant analyst for Cleveland, Ohio-based KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc. Arnisha Keyes of Pittsburgh said that until recently, she spent $30 a day to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner at restaurants. "It saves you a lot more money if you just buckle down and focus on eating at home," Keyes said, laughing sheepishly at her previous lifestyle. Still, even cooking can be expensive. The IRI survey on grocery sales found that about 30 percent of 1,000 consumers questioned said they were buying less fresh produce. Half said they were buying more generic brand products.
What's next?It looks like prices will keep rising, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Economic Research Service. In February, the service forecast food prices will increase 3 to 4 percent this year. Last year's 4 percent increase was the highest in 17 years.
to learn more go to ChicagoTribune.com (September 21, 2008)
I hope you find this as interesting and informative as I did. Bon Appetit!
—Associated Press
September 21, 2008
The high price of gas has consumers testing their cooking skills to save money—going to the grocery store more frequently instead of eating out, packing lunch for work and experimenting with new recipes at home.About 45 percent of Americans are eating out less this year to save money, a nearly 12 percent increase from 2007, according to BIGResearch, a Worthington, Ohio-based firm that does consumer research. "Consumers are really pulling back right now. They're really watching their pockets," said one of the firm's senior analysts, Pam Goodfellow.
Sales are cookingThe sudden rush to buy cooking necessities has driven up sales of cookbooks, inexpensive cookware and the basic foods needed to concoct a meal. And cooking magazines and Web sites are booming even as magazine sales overall have suffered. Cookware sales as a whole have declined in the past year, but items selling for less than $100 are doing "remarkably well," said Florence Sheffer, spokeswoman for the cookware distributor Meyer Corp. in Vallejo, Calif. Cast-iron cookware in that price category, for instance, has recorded a 19 percent sales increase over a year ago, the most popular being those with celebrity chef name tags. "That suggests to me there are probably a lot of new cooks entering, because I think a lot of the people watching the Food Network ... are really just opening up to the idea of cooking," Sheffer said.
Food-centered salesFurther evidence is a boost in sales of "center store" items in supermarkets: pasta, canned goods, baking goods and spices. Such sales have risen by 3.4 percent in recent months, said Thom Blischok, president of IRI Consulting and Innovation in Chicago.
Hungry for recipesBon Appetit, a magazine that serves up recipes for everything from gourmet meals to fast and easy dinners, said newsstand sales in May were up 39 percent from a year ago. Borders Group Inc. said cookbook sales were up in the second quarter of this year, which ended in June, over the first quarter. Amazon.com has seen double-digit growth in book sales in the food, cooking and wine category during this past year, said spokeswoman Tammy Hovey. Mary Davis, a Borders corporate affairs manager, said sales of "comfort food cookbooks," covering baking, cookies and desserts have seen double-digit sales increases in the past year. "These are dishes that require a time commitment to prepare and bake, suggesting people are staying at home," she said.
Taking stockBecause of the eating-in trend, some casual dining restaurants are taking a hit in stock price and sales, said Lynne Collier, a senior restaurant analyst for Cleveland, Ohio-based KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc. Arnisha Keyes of Pittsburgh said that until recently, she spent $30 a day to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner at restaurants. "It saves you a lot more money if you just buckle down and focus on eating at home," Keyes said, laughing sheepishly at her previous lifestyle. Still, even cooking can be expensive. The IRI survey on grocery sales found that about 30 percent of 1,000 consumers questioned said they were buying less fresh produce. Half said they were buying more generic brand products.
What's next?It looks like prices will keep rising, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Economic Research Service. In February, the service forecast food prices will increase 3 to 4 percent this year. Last year's 4 percent increase was the highest in 17 years.
to learn more go to ChicagoTribune.com (September 21, 2008)
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Small Kitchen Survival
Small Kitchen Survival
It seems that these days, bigger isn’t always best. Tiny cell phones no thicker than a credit card? Better. Digital cameras small enough to slide into your front pocket? Even better. But when it comes to your kitchen, dollhouse-sized just won’t cut it. In fact, cramped kitchens can be a major red flag for home buyers and also present problems for current owners. So what do you do if your food prep area is space-challenged? Mark Witte, CGR (Certified Graduate Remodeler), CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist) owner of DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen and wife/co-owner Debra Witte (certified redecorating specialist) weigh in the solutions.
So where do you begin when you’re ready to update your kitchen?
The first step is not to rush it. You need to know the house and your patterns. Start by collecting pictures and going to design centers to see what you like. It’s worth taking some time and getting it right in your mind.
Any good tips on ways to renovate that won’t break your bank?
Sometimes, when things seem too small in a kitchen, it’s not that there is too little square footage, rather, it is the layout that’s dysfunctional. By reorganizing your major appliances, workspace and traffic areas, the exact same size kitchen can feel much bigger.
How do you determine what should be moved where?
Make a sketch (in scale) of your floor plan. Then take some tracing paper with pencil, and play with the design. Draw in doors and windows, and start putting in things such as an island and appliances where you think they might work. And don’t forget that you can move gas and plumbing lines, even if it’s a little more costly. You don’t want to go with the lesser design for the sake of money. The very thing you think you’re saving on can decrease the value on a remodel.
I’m always running into people in my kitchen – they want to get to the pantry while I’m cooking. How can I redirect traffic?
Islands are great for adding counterspace, but they also congest foot traffic. You need to protect your work station so that you’re not constantly bumped into. At the same time, you should consider access to the fridge or traffic flows to the living area. This usually requires an island being turned or moved. You don’t have to ditch it entirely; just shift it to an area that is work-friendly and has more space.
What if we don’t want to do major construction? Are there still ways to make the kitchen feel larger?
If you don’t want to send a lot of money, one economical thing to do is to change the way you view the space. Most kitchens are poorly lit or have one center fixture. Something as simple as illumination around the room makes it look larger. Recessed or track lighting, which can be made brighter or softer with a dimmer, are your best bests, and adding under-cabinet lights will work well, too. The light will bounce off the backsplash and visually expands the look of the space.
What about paint? That can really help, right?
If you have a small space, put dark colors on the horizontal planes, such as the countertops and floors, and the light colors on vertical spaces, such as cabinets and walls. This ‘visual weight’ effect can make a space look twice as large.
What happens when we’ve tried all of the tips to no avail?
When space is just too tight and no amount of renovations will change that fact, consider switching rooms. Maybe your dining area would really make a better kitchen and vice versa. Daunting as it sounds, it’s not an ordeal. You’ll end up with a much better situated kitchen.
It seems like we never have enough storage space. How can we maximize it, even in a small kitchen?
Always go taller, not wider. Most kitchens have one wall that’s just storage with no appliances. These cabinets often protrude 24 inches because they have a countertop above or below them, so you lose two feet of depth space on your floors. Instead, replace them (and the countertop) with an entire wall of 12-inch deep cabinets. You get the same storage space but gain 12 more inches of floor space. If you still need that extra countertop, purchase a moveable island.
What if our cabinets are already maxed out? Any other helpful hints?
Many times, you can utilize the same storage area but actually gain space. Instead of throwing cans and what-have-you to the back of your shelves and never seeing them again, put in roll-out drawers or add trays to create more horizontal shelving. Utilize these types of hardware and you’ll make the space more efficient without having to expand.
Are some appliances better than others when it comes to saving space?
Smaller Stoves: Double ovens really aren’t used very often. Going with a single-oven creates a more functional workspace. Even better, get a range.
Mini-microwaves: Space-saver microwaves that are installed above your cooktop are pretty standard these days, but you can also look for one that will double as a convection oven.
Diminutive Dishwashers: If it’s just two of you, an 18-inch dishwasher by GE, which fits in next to your sink, works really well. If you can spend more, try one by Fisher & Paykel: it pulls out from underneath your counter like two drawers. It’s really cool.
Tracking (the) Trends
Want to be on the cutting edge?
Here are the latest happenings in kitchen design, according to Mark and Debra Witte, owners of DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen.
Lightening up: People are tired of darker wood tones, so they’re going for maples and cherries.
Island living: Everyone is incorporating islands into their kitchens so they have more sociable areas, as well as more workspace.
Courting quartz: There’s more interest now in quartz countertops such as Zodiaq or Silestone. It’s more maintenance-free than granite.
Handy cabinetry: With more than one cook in the kitchen (husbands are stepping in), many people are putting in specialty cabinets with deep drawers for pans and skillets or with pull-out spice racks. These additions streamline everything.
When look for a designer or contractor, here are some terms and credentials to know:
CGR: Certified Graduate Remodeler from the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB)
CAPS: Certified Aging in Place Specialist from NAHB
CR: Certified Remodeler from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry
ASID: American Society of Interior Designers
CKD: Certified Kitchen Designer from the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA)
CBD: Certified Bathroom Designer from NKBA
It seems that these days, bigger isn’t always best. Tiny cell phones no thicker than a credit card? Better. Digital cameras small enough to slide into your front pocket? Even better. But when it comes to your kitchen, dollhouse-sized just won’t cut it. In fact, cramped kitchens can be a major red flag for home buyers and also present problems for current owners. So what do you do if your food prep area is space-challenged? Mark Witte, CGR (Certified Graduate Remodeler), CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist) owner of DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen and wife/co-owner Debra Witte (certified redecorating specialist) weigh in the solutions.
So where do you begin when you’re ready to update your kitchen?
The first step is not to rush it. You need to know the house and your patterns. Start by collecting pictures and going to design centers to see what you like. It’s worth taking some time and getting it right in your mind.
Any good tips on ways to renovate that won’t break your bank?
Sometimes, when things seem too small in a kitchen, it’s not that there is too little square footage, rather, it is the layout that’s dysfunctional. By reorganizing your major appliances, workspace and traffic areas, the exact same size kitchen can feel much bigger.
How do you determine what should be moved where?
Make a sketch (in scale) of your floor plan. Then take some tracing paper with pencil, and play with the design. Draw in doors and windows, and start putting in things such as an island and appliances where you think they might work. And don’t forget that you can move gas and plumbing lines, even if it’s a little more costly. You don’t want to go with the lesser design for the sake of money. The very thing you think you’re saving on can decrease the value on a remodel.
I’m always running into people in my kitchen – they want to get to the pantry while I’m cooking. How can I redirect traffic?
Islands are great for adding counterspace, but they also congest foot traffic. You need to protect your work station so that you’re not constantly bumped into. At the same time, you should consider access to the fridge or traffic flows to the living area. This usually requires an island being turned or moved. You don’t have to ditch it entirely; just shift it to an area that is work-friendly and has more space.
What if we don’t want to do major construction? Are there still ways to make the kitchen feel larger?
If you don’t want to send a lot of money, one economical thing to do is to change the way you view the space. Most kitchens are poorly lit or have one center fixture. Something as simple as illumination around the room makes it look larger. Recessed or track lighting, which can be made brighter or softer with a dimmer, are your best bests, and adding under-cabinet lights will work well, too. The light will bounce off the backsplash and visually expands the look of the space.
What about paint? That can really help, right?
If you have a small space, put dark colors on the horizontal planes, such as the countertops and floors, and the light colors on vertical spaces, such as cabinets and walls. This ‘visual weight’ effect can make a space look twice as large.
What happens when we’ve tried all of the tips to no avail?
When space is just too tight and no amount of renovations will change that fact, consider switching rooms. Maybe your dining area would really make a better kitchen and vice versa. Daunting as it sounds, it’s not an ordeal. You’ll end up with a much better situated kitchen.
It seems like we never have enough storage space. How can we maximize it, even in a small kitchen?
Always go taller, not wider. Most kitchens have one wall that’s just storage with no appliances. These cabinets often protrude 24 inches because they have a countertop above or below them, so you lose two feet of depth space on your floors. Instead, replace them (and the countertop) with an entire wall of 12-inch deep cabinets. You get the same storage space but gain 12 more inches of floor space. If you still need that extra countertop, purchase a moveable island.
What if our cabinets are already maxed out? Any other helpful hints?
Many times, you can utilize the same storage area but actually gain space. Instead of throwing cans and what-have-you to the back of your shelves and never seeing them again, put in roll-out drawers or add trays to create more horizontal shelving. Utilize these types of hardware and you’ll make the space more efficient without having to expand.
Are some appliances better than others when it comes to saving space?
Smaller Stoves: Double ovens really aren’t used very often. Going with a single-oven creates a more functional workspace. Even better, get a range.
Mini-microwaves: Space-saver microwaves that are installed above your cooktop are pretty standard these days, but you can also look for one that will double as a convection oven.
Diminutive Dishwashers: If it’s just two of you, an 18-inch dishwasher by GE, which fits in next to your sink, works really well. If you can spend more, try one by Fisher & Paykel: it pulls out from underneath your counter like two drawers. It’s really cool.
Tracking (the) Trends
Want to be on the cutting edge?
Here are the latest happenings in kitchen design, according to Mark and Debra Witte, owners of DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen.
Lightening up: People are tired of darker wood tones, so they’re going for maples and cherries.
Island living: Everyone is incorporating islands into their kitchens so they have more sociable areas, as well as more workspace.
Courting quartz: There’s more interest now in quartz countertops such as Zodiaq or Silestone. It’s more maintenance-free than granite.
Handy cabinetry: With more than one cook in the kitchen (husbands are stepping in), many people are putting in specialty cabinets with deep drawers for pans and skillets or with pull-out spice racks. These additions streamline everything.
When look for a designer or contractor, here are some terms and credentials to know:
CGR: Certified Graduate Remodeler from the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB)
CAPS: Certified Aging in Place Specialist from NAHB
CR: Certified Remodeler from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry
ASID: American Society of Interior Designers
CKD: Certified Kitchen Designer from the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA)
CBD: Certified Bathroom Designer from NKBA
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
AWASH WITH POSSIBILITIES
Fluff and fold in a luxe laundry room.
There’s an enter-at-your-own-risk zone in every home where socks mysteriously disappear, pocket change is recovered and people occasionally emerge in pink when a red bandanna goes astray in a load of whites.
The average American household does six loads of laundry per week, according to a study conducted by Procter & Gamble. Clearly, the laundry room is a hangout for more than just clothes.
Surprisingly, creating a fabulous and functional laundry room needn’t be time consuming. As with most home improvement projects, it can be accomplished in phases. Whatever your tastes or space size, focus on three key elements: location, tools and decor.
Location, location, location!
“Consumers spend a lot of time in their laundry rooms and aren’t willing to push such a workable space to the basement or spare room any longer,” says Audrey Reed-Granger of Whirlpool. For convenience, laundry rooms are migrating to more livable spaces in the home – near bedrooms and baths.
Combination kitchen and laundry rooms are viable options for homeowners with open floor plans. New washers and dryers coordinate with kitchen appliances.
Even homes that don’t have the space for a luxe laundry room are enjoying upgrades. Designers are making clever use of closets and hallways, converting them into practical laundry centers tucked behind louvered doors.
Efficient tools of the trade
When your appliances are past their prime, consider replacing them with models that excel in energy efficiency. “While cost once drove purchases, consumers are now looking at water and energy savings as well as performance,” Reed-Granger says. One of the easiest ways to zero in on these is to look for Energy Star®-rated appliances. “These washers are not only better for the environment but save money along the way,” says John Weinstock, vice president of marketing, LG Electronics USA.
Among washer types, front-load models use significantly less water than top loaders. In the last five years, manufacturer shipments of front-load washers have tripled from 9 percent to 29 percent, according to the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.
“One of the newest innovations is washers with 400 rpm high spin speed cycles that extract more water from clothes so drying time, the energy guzzler of most households, is reduced,” says Wolfgang Bednar of Ariston Appliances North America. New steam washers, which have generators that refresh clothes and remove wrinkles and odors without water or detergent, also provide considerable energy savings.
In addition, there are side-by-side stackable front-load and space-savings all-in-one combo washer/dryer units. Several options exist for saving floor space and optimizing efficiency of such a tight work area. “If possible, incorporate ironing and folding stations into the design of the laundry room so there’s no need to carry baskets of clothes into a bedroom to fold them,” advises Matt Kueny, senior product manager, Miele, Inc.
Some more ideas include:
Halogen or other glare minimizing lighting
A table or surface for folding
A clock for timing special soaks
A built-in ironing board
An over-the-door drying rack
A portable two or three section laundry sorter
A soaking sink with towel bar above
A lost-and-found bin
Modular cabinetry, installed above eashers and dryers, keeps essentials out of sight but within reach.
In Style
Gone are boxy silhouettes. Appliances now come with curved fronts and softly rounded edges in midnight blue, wild cherry, titanium and stainless hues.
Attractive surroundings always make tasks more pleasant. Perk up your laundry room with a fresh coat of paint and hang wall art. Tile backsplashes add visual interest and protect walls from potential water damage. Also, consider stone, tile or rubber flooring for a designer touch. They are also practical for use in areas near water.
With all these wonderful new ways to brighten and enjoy your laundry room, you’ll be looking for reasons to get your clothes dirty.
As published in My Home Life, a DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen magazine
There’s an enter-at-your-own-risk zone in every home where socks mysteriously disappear, pocket change is recovered and people occasionally emerge in pink when a red bandanna goes astray in a load of whites.
The average American household does six loads of laundry per week, according to a study conducted by Procter & Gamble. Clearly, the laundry room is a hangout for more than just clothes.
Surprisingly, creating a fabulous and functional laundry room needn’t be time consuming. As with most home improvement projects, it can be accomplished in phases. Whatever your tastes or space size, focus on three key elements: location, tools and decor.
Location, location, location!
“Consumers spend a lot of time in their laundry rooms and aren’t willing to push such a workable space to the basement or spare room any longer,” says Audrey Reed-Granger of Whirlpool. For convenience, laundry rooms are migrating to more livable spaces in the home – near bedrooms and baths.
Combination kitchen and laundry rooms are viable options for homeowners with open floor plans. New washers and dryers coordinate with kitchen appliances.
Even homes that don’t have the space for a luxe laundry room are enjoying upgrades. Designers are making clever use of closets and hallways, converting them into practical laundry centers tucked behind louvered doors.
Efficient tools of the trade
When your appliances are past their prime, consider replacing them with models that excel in energy efficiency. “While cost once drove purchases, consumers are now looking at water and energy savings as well as performance,” Reed-Granger says. One of the easiest ways to zero in on these is to look for Energy Star®-rated appliances. “These washers are not only better for the environment but save money along the way,” says John Weinstock, vice president of marketing, LG Electronics USA.
Among washer types, front-load models use significantly less water than top loaders. In the last five years, manufacturer shipments of front-load washers have tripled from 9 percent to 29 percent, according to the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.
“One of the newest innovations is washers with 400 rpm high spin speed cycles that extract more water from clothes so drying time, the energy guzzler of most households, is reduced,” says Wolfgang Bednar of Ariston Appliances North America. New steam washers, which have generators that refresh clothes and remove wrinkles and odors without water or detergent, also provide considerable energy savings.
In addition, there are side-by-side stackable front-load and space-savings all-in-one combo washer/dryer units. Several options exist for saving floor space and optimizing efficiency of such a tight work area. “If possible, incorporate ironing and folding stations into the design of the laundry room so there’s no need to carry baskets of clothes into a bedroom to fold them,” advises Matt Kueny, senior product manager, Miele, Inc.
Some more ideas include:
Halogen or other glare minimizing lighting
A table or surface for folding
A clock for timing special soaks
A built-in ironing board
An over-the-door drying rack
A portable two or three section laundry sorter
A soaking sink with towel bar above
A lost-and-found bin
Modular cabinetry, installed above eashers and dryers, keeps essentials out of sight but within reach.
In Style
Gone are boxy silhouettes. Appliances now come with curved fronts and softly rounded edges in midnight blue, wild cherry, titanium and stainless hues.
Attractive surroundings always make tasks more pleasant. Perk up your laundry room with a fresh coat of paint and hang wall art. Tile backsplashes add visual interest and protect walls from potential water damage. Also, consider stone, tile or rubber flooring for a designer touch. They are also practical for use in areas near water.
With all these wonderful new ways to brighten and enjoy your laundry room, you’ll be looking for reasons to get your clothes dirty.
As published in My Home Life, a DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen magazine
Monday, September 15, 2008
Meet Mark Mihalak
New Carpenter on Staff
Mark Mihalak
We are proud to introduce Mark Mihalak Mark is our new lead carpenter. If you love to laugh you will enjoy having Mark work in your home. Mark & wife, Julia, have a three year old daughter, McKenzie. In their free time they love to camp & mountain bike.
Mark Mihalak
We are proud to introduce Mark Mihalak Mark is our new lead carpenter. If you love to laugh you will enjoy having Mark work in your home. Mark & wife, Julia, have a three year old daughter, McKenzie. In their free time they love to camp & mountain bike.
Remember to D.R.E.A.M. Before You Remodel
D.R.E.A.M. before you remodel. Follow these five tips before you tackle that home improvement project. These steps will allow you to have a more successful remodeling experience.
D.R.E.A.M before you begin:
1. Design: Have a design in mind. Contemporary? Eclectic? Traditional? Know the likes of your current space and what you want to keep or change when remodeling. Professional remodelers can offer great assistance in creating a cohesive plan to meet your desires with layout, color options, materials and more.
2. References: When choosing a remodeler, always ask for references. By speaking with past customers and seeing pictures and results of past projects, you have a better understanding of the skills, customer service and design strengths of the firm.
3. Estimate: Going beyond your budget is the best way to create a bad remodeling experience. Always get a written estimate from the remodeler that gives an accurate picture of the materials and labor costs before your agree on a project. If changes are made along the way, get them in writing to know their impact on your ultimate costs.
4. Accountability: You want the project finished in two months. Your remodeler knows it will take twice that long. You asked for custom cabinets. Your remodeler said you approved the stock item.
Avoid mishaps with a written contract that details the remodeler’s exact responsibilities to you, the customer. This includes the scope of the project, the time frame, the design details, materials, costs, and more – before the job every even begins.
5. Mood: The ultimate goal of a remodeling project should be to create a certain mood. Do you want the space to offer peace and relaxation? Or do you desire energy and pizzazz and lots of room to mingle? The form and function of the project should culminate in a certain feeling – a certain mood. When working with your remodeler, communicate the mood you hope to achieve. This will factor into the design and help reach your goal.
D.R.E.A.M before you begin:
1. Design: Have a design in mind. Contemporary? Eclectic? Traditional? Know the likes of your current space and what you want to keep or change when remodeling. Professional remodelers can offer great assistance in creating a cohesive plan to meet your desires with layout, color options, materials and more.
2. References: When choosing a remodeler, always ask for references. By speaking with past customers and seeing pictures and results of past projects, you have a better understanding of the skills, customer service and design strengths of the firm.
3. Estimate: Going beyond your budget is the best way to create a bad remodeling experience. Always get a written estimate from the remodeler that gives an accurate picture of the materials and labor costs before your agree on a project. If changes are made along the way, get them in writing to know their impact on your ultimate costs.
4. Accountability: You want the project finished in two months. Your remodeler knows it will take twice that long. You asked for custom cabinets. Your remodeler said you approved the stock item.
Avoid mishaps with a written contract that details the remodeler’s exact responsibilities to you, the customer. This includes the scope of the project, the time frame, the design details, materials, costs, and more – before the job every even begins.
5. Mood: The ultimate goal of a remodeling project should be to create a certain mood. Do you want the space to offer peace and relaxation? Or do you desire energy and pizzazz and lots of room to mingle? The form and function of the project should culminate in a certain feeling – a certain mood. When working with your remodeler, communicate the mood you hope to achieve. This will factor into the design and help reach your goal.
Small Kitchen Survival
Small Kitchen Survival
It seems that these days, bigger isn’t always best. Tiny cell phones no thicker than a credit card? Better. Digital cameras asmall enough to slide into your front pocket? Even better. But when it comes to your kitchen, dollhouse-sized just won’t cut it. In fact, cramped kitchens can be a major red flag for home buyers and also present problems for current owners. So what do you do if your food prep area is space-challenged? Let's weigh in the solutions. So where do you begin when you’re ready to update your kitchen? The first step is not to rush it. You need to know the house and your patterns. Start by collecting pictures and going to design centers to see what you like. It’s worth taking some time and getting it right in your mind. Any good tips on ways to renovate that won’t break your bank? Sometimes, when things seem too small in a kitchen, it’s not that there is too little square footage, rather, it is the layout that’s dysfunctional. By reorganizing your major appliances, workspace and traffic areas, the exact same size kitchen can feel much bigger. How do you determine what should be moved where? Make a sketch (in scale) of your floor plan. Then take some tracing paper with pencil, and play with the design. Draw in doors and windows, and start putting in things such as an island and appliances where you think they might work. And don’t forget that you can move gas and plumbing lines, even if it’s a little more costly. You don’t want to go with the lesser design for the sake of money. The very thing you think you’re saving on can decrease the value on a remodel. I’m always running into people in my kitchen – they want to get to the pantry while I’m cooking. How can I redirect traffic? Islands are great for adding counterspace, but they also congest foot traffic. You need to protect your work station so that you’re not constantly bumped into. At the same time, you should consider access to the fridge or traffic flows to the living area. This usually requires an island being turned or moved. You don’t have to ditch it entirely; just shift it to an area that is work-friendly and has more space. What if we don’t want to do major construction? Are there still ways to make the kitchen feel larger? If you don’t want to send a lot of money, one economical thing to do is to change the way you view the space. Most kitchens are poorly lit or have one center fixture. Something as simple as illumination around the room makes it look larger. Recessed or track lighting, which can be made brighter or softer with a dimmer, are your best bests, and adding under-cabinet lights will work well, too. The light will bounce off the backsplash and visually expands the look of the space. What about paint? That can really help, right? If you have a small space, put dark colors on the horizontal planes, such as the countertops and floors, and the light colors on vertical spaces, such as cabinets and walls. This ‘visual weight’ effect can make a space look twice as large. What happens when we’ve tried all of the tips to no avail? When space is just too tight and no amount of renovations will change that fact, consider switching rooms. Maybe your dining area would really make a better kitchen and vice versa. Daunting as it sounds, it’s not an ordeal. You’ll end up with a much better situated kitchen. It seems like we never have enough storage space. How can we maximize it, even in a small kitchen? Always go taller, not wider. Most kitchens have one wall that’s just storage with no appliances. These cabinets often protrude 24 inches because they have a countertop above or below them, so you lose two feet of depth space on your floors. Instead, replace them (and the countertop) with an entire wall of 12-inch deep cabinets. You get the same storage space but gain 12 more inches of floor space. If you still need that extra countertop, purchase a moveable island. What if our cabinets are already maxed out? Any other helpful hints? Many times, you can utilize the same storage area but actually gain space. Instead of throwing cans and what-have-you to the back of your shelves and never seeing them again, put in roll-out drawers or add trays to create more horizontal shelving. Utilize these types of hardware and you’ll make the space more efficient without having to expand.
Labels: news
It seems that these days, bigger isn’t always best. Tiny cell phones no thicker than a credit card? Better. Digital cameras asmall enough to slide into your front pocket? Even better. But when it comes to your kitchen, dollhouse-sized just won’t cut it. In fact, cramped kitchens can be a major red flag for home buyers and also present problems for current owners. So what do you do if your food prep area is space-challenged? Let's weigh in the solutions. So where do you begin when you’re ready to update your kitchen? The first step is not to rush it. You need to know the house and your patterns. Start by collecting pictures and going to design centers to see what you like. It’s worth taking some time and getting it right in your mind. Any good tips on ways to renovate that won’t break your bank? Sometimes, when things seem too small in a kitchen, it’s not that there is too little square footage, rather, it is the layout that’s dysfunctional. By reorganizing your major appliances, workspace and traffic areas, the exact same size kitchen can feel much bigger. How do you determine what should be moved where? Make a sketch (in scale) of your floor plan. Then take some tracing paper with pencil, and play with the design. Draw in doors and windows, and start putting in things such as an island and appliances where you think they might work. And don’t forget that you can move gas and plumbing lines, even if it’s a little more costly. You don’t want to go with the lesser design for the sake of money. The very thing you think you’re saving on can decrease the value on a remodel. I’m always running into people in my kitchen – they want to get to the pantry while I’m cooking. How can I redirect traffic? Islands are great for adding counterspace, but they also congest foot traffic. You need to protect your work station so that you’re not constantly bumped into. At the same time, you should consider access to the fridge or traffic flows to the living area. This usually requires an island being turned or moved. You don’t have to ditch it entirely; just shift it to an area that is work-friendly and has more space. What if we don’t want to do major construction? Are there still ways to make the kitchen feel larger? If you don’t want to send a lot of money, one economical thing to do is to change the way you view the space. Most kitchens are poorly lit or have one center fixture. Something as simple as illumination around the room makes it look larger. Recessed or track lighting, which can be made brighter or softer with a dimmer, are your best bests, and adding under-cabinet lights will work well, too. The light will bounce off the backsplash and visually expands the look of the space. What about paint? That can really help, right? If you have a small space, put dark colors on the horizontal planes, such as the countertops and floors, and the light colors on vertical spaces, such as cabinets and walls. This ‘visual weight’ effect can make a space look twice as large. What happens when we’ve tried all of the tips to no avail? When space is just too tight and no amount of renovations will change that fact, consider switching rooms. Maybe your dining area would really make a better kitchen and vice versa. Daunting as it sounds, it’s not an ordeal. You’ll end up with a much better situated kitchen. It seems like we never have enough storage space. How can we maximize it, even in a small kitchen? Always go taller, not wider. Most kitchens have one wall that’s just storage with no appliances. These cabinets often protrude 24 inches because they have a countertop above or below them, so you lose two feet of depth space on your floors. Instead, replace them (and the countertop) with an entire wall of 12-inch deep cabinets. You get the same storage space but gain 12 more inches of floor space. If you still need that extra countertop, purchase a moveable island. What if our cabinets are already maxed out? Any other helpful hints? Many times, you can utilize the same storage area but actually gain space. Instead of throwing cans and what-have-you to the back of your shelves and never seeing them again, put in roll-out drawers or add trays to create more horizontal shelving. Utilize these types of hardware and you’ll make the space more efficient without having to expand.
Labels: news
Sunday, September 7, 2008
What Women Want When They Remodel
What Women Want… When They Remodel Their Kitchen
Today’s woman views her home so much more than just a place to eat and sleep. It's her sanctuary from the world, a reflection of herself, a gathering place for her family.
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and when it comes to remodeling, a woman possesses a significant amount of influence on the decisions to be made. If you were to ask a woman what she desires in her new kitchen, and what she ultimately achieves from the remodeling process, what would be her answers?
I spoke with several Colorado Springs women (DreamMaker clients) to gain insight on what women really desire from their kitchens.
Denise Quinn, Pat Reed, Julie Scoggins and Janice Rants share their experiences below:
Why did you want to remodel your kitchen?
Denise: We have lived in our house for nine years and loved every part of it except the kitchen and dining room area. The set up in both areas made it very difficult to spend time in the rooms because they felt so cut off from the rest of the house.
We even considered moving to a home with a better kitchen, but felt we would be giving up too many other things we loved. So we looked into remodeling. Now, we love our new kitchen, not to mention it has saved us about $250,000! We are able to enjoy our entire home now and really appreciate the openness between the kitchen and dining room.
What are some of the new features you wanted in your remodel? And, what features, if any, were you excited to be rid of from your old kitchen?
Janice: Being an avid HGTV fanatic, certain kitchen features always struck a chord with me - pendants lights, under-cabinet lighting, a book shelf area for cookbooks, roll-out cabinet shelves, and a carousel cabinet. These items may have been around for awhile, but certainly not in my 70’s kitchen.
The relocation of my refrigerator removed the congestion that inevitably happened when more than two people were in the kitchen; and, getting rid of that horrible, patterned linoleum made everyone’s day!
What do you feel is the most important factor to consider when choosing a contractor?
Julie - Trust. Someone who follows through and stands by their work is a must. Debra found that all of the women wanted a company that had their best interests at heart - and had a solid track record that focused on quality to prove it.
What was your biggest concern and how was it addressed?
Denise: I’ve heard so many horror stories about contractors who left half way through the job. I never even needed to voice my concern. During our planning session they talked about the importance of consistent communication. We were provided with daily updates, as well as a project calendar. Every Friday the calendar was updated to show any changes. I felt very confident that they were as focused on meeting the timeframe as we were.
What suggestions would you offer other women considering remodeling?
Pat - First, really think about what you want out of your new space. Take some time making decisions before beginning a remodeling project. Second, make sure you are comfortable with your remodeler. Remember this person and their crew will be creating your new kitchen that will be a permanent fixture in your home.
How do you feel about your new kitchen? What do your friends and family think of your new kitchen?
Janice - My husband and I absolutely love our kitchen. Not only is it beautiful and much more functional, but the room now feels even bigger and it certainly suits our lifestyle better. Probably every week one of us comments to the other on how much he/she loves the kitchen and is so happy that the room was remodeled. That says something when your remodeling job was over a year ago! … or
Our children can’t get over the change in the kitchen and the increased counter space and storage. They want to know why we didn’t make these changes while they were still at home so that they could enjoy them too. Basically, everyone who sees our new kitchen is envious and just ooh’s and ah’s over it. We couldn’t be more proud!
Were you children (or pets maybe) a consideration when planning your project?
Denise - Yes, we have lots of family from out of state who will come and spend time with us in the summer. We wanted an open and airy kitchen where everyone could gather. It has become the heart of our home.
What is your favorite feature or aspect of your new kitchen?
Julie - I love our new island! I have gained much needed storage and work space. Inside the island, I have a pull-out garbage container. It’s perfect for keeping the trash within easy reach yet removed from view. Overall, my kitchen feels more organized; a place for everything and the island acts as a finishing touch.
How has it affected your life?
Pat - Before, I didn't like being in my kitchen. I didn't even want to cook often because it was uncomfortable and dated. Now, I have a beautiful kitchen that is not only modern but well organized with ample counter space and a great new pantry. I enjoy cooking for my family and entertaining more because of my fresh new kitchen.
Any unexpected rewards as a result of remodeling?
Janice - Life just seems easier now and we know that the remodel has increased the value of our home. It is so much easier to keep the kitchen neat, clean, and uncluttered. In fact, I’ve got a few more rooms that I’d like to have this same transformation in!
Today’s woman views her home so much more than just a place to eat and sleep. It's her sanctuary from the world, a reflection of herself, a gathering place for her family.
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and when it comes to remodeling, a woman possesses a significant amount of influence on the decisions to be made. If you were to ask a woman what she desires in her new kitchen, and what she ultimately achieves from the remodeling process, what would be her answers?
I spoke with several Colorado Springs women (DreamMaker clients) to gain insight on what women really desire from their kitchens.
Denise Quinn, Pat Reed, Julie Scoggins and Janice Rants share their experiences below:
Why did you want to remodel your kitchen?
Denise: We have lived in our house for nine years and loved every part of it except the kitchen and dining room area. The set up in both areas made it very difficult to spend time in the rooms because they felt so cut off from the rest of the house.
We even considered moving to a home with a better kitchen, but felt we would be giving up too many other things we loved. So we looked into remodeling. Now, we love our new kitchen, not to mention it has saved us about $250,000! We are able to enjoy our entire home now and really appreciate the openness between the kitchen and dining room.
What are some of the new features you wanted in your remodel? And, what features, if any, were you excited to be rid of from your old kitchen?
Janice: Being an avid HGTV fanatic, certain kitchen features always struck a chord with me - pendants lights, under-cabinet lighting, a book shelf area for cookbooks, roll-out cabinet shelves, and a carousel cabinet. These items may have been around for awhile, but certainly not in my 70’s kitchen.
The relocation of my refrigerator removed the congestion that inevitably happened when more than two people were in the kitchen; and, getting rid of that horrible, patterned linoleum made everyone’s day!
What do you feel is the most important factor to consider when choosing a contractor?
Julie - Trust. Someone who follows through and stands by their work is a must. Debra found that all of the women wanted a company that had their best interests at heart - and had a solid track record that focused on quality to prove it.
What was your biggest concern and how was it addressed?
Denise: I’ve heard so many horror stories about contractors who left half way through the job. I never even needed to voice my concern. During our planning session they talked about the importance of consistent communication. We were provided with daily updates, as well as a project calendar. Every Friday the calendar was updated to show any changes. I felt very confident that they were as focused on meeting the timeframe as we were.
What suggestions would you offer other women considering remodeling?
Pat - First, really think about what you want out of your new space. Take some time making decisions before beginning a remodeling project. Second, make sure you are comfortable with your remodeler. Remember this person and their crew will be creating your new kitchen that will be a permanent fixture in your home.
How do you feel about your new kitchen? What do your friends and family think of your new kitchen?
Janice - My husband and I absolutely love our kitchen. Not only is it beautiful and much more functional, but the room now feels even bigger and it certainly suits our lifestyle better. Probably every week one of us comments to the other on how much he/she loves the kitchen and is so happy that the room was remodeled. That says something when your remodeling job was over a year ago! … or
Our children can’t get over the change in the kitchen and the increased counter space and storage. They want to know why we didn’t make these changes while they were still at home so that they could enjoy them too. Basically, everyone who sees our new kitchen is envious and just ooh’s and ah’s over it. We couldn’t be more proud!
Were you children (or pets maybe) a consideration when planning your project?
Denise - Yes, we have lots of family from out of state who will come and spend time with us in the summer. We wanted an open and airy kitchen where everyone could gather. It has become the heart of our home.
What is your favorite feature or aspect of your new kitchen?
Julie - I love our new island! I have gained much needed storage and work space. Inside the island, I have a pull-out garbage container. It’s perfect for keeping the trash within easy reach yet removed from view. Overall, my kitchen feels more organized; a place for everything and the island acts as a finishing touch.
How has it affected your life?
Pat - Before, I didn't like being in my kitchen. I didn't even want to cook often because it was uncomfortable and dated. Now, I have a beautiful kitchen that is not only modern but well organized with ample counter space and a great new pantry. I enjoy cooking for my family and entertaining more because of my fresh new kitchen.
Any unexpected rewards as a result of remodeling?
Janice - Life just seems easier now and we know that the remodel has increased the value of our home. It is so much easier to keep the kitchen neat, clean, and uncluttered. In fact, I’ve got a few more rooms that I’d like to have this same transformation in!
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