Design Blog

Stay updated with our design blog for tips, trends, and expert advice on remodeling projects.

Creating an Industrial Design Basement

Creating an Industrial Design Basement

If you are going for a different look for the basement remodeling in your home you should consider doing an edgier industrial look. The basement remodeling Ottawa home owners undergo doesn’t always have to follow the same design scheme. Instead look to the lofts of New York City for inspiration and go industrial. Here are some tips to help you create an industrial design basement. Open Ceiling One of the first things a basement remodel focuses on is covering up those “unsightly” beams and ducts in the ceiling. However, in a space that is already frightfully low leaving the floor beams and ducts exposed can really open up the room. Consider painting out all of those unfinished features in white or grey and leaving the metal ducts raw to create an airier, industrial feel. Jack Posts Jack posts are usually painted an unattractive brownish red and stick out like a sore thumb. However in an industrial space you can avoid the cost of covering these posts and opt to paint them out instead in white or black. Depending on their location you can even consider building a “table” or “bar” around the post for people to lean on or place a drink during a game of pool or darts. Cement A very popular feature in an industrial style loft is the cement floor. If you’re looking to completely remodel the basement ask your Ottawa contractors whether a cement floor is right for you. You may also consider lying down some floor heating and covering it with a warm polished cement for the industrial look. You can also cover walls in cement to intensify the effect. Corrugated Metal Corrugated metal can be used in a number of ways for your basement remodeling including a textured and interesting ceiling, as a wall covering and ideally as the front for your basement bar. Corrugated metal has a modern edge that looks fantastic. Exposed Brick Many older homes have brick that can be exposed for a more historical industrial feel. Again you will have to discuss the effects of using the actual brick of the foundation or other areas and how it will work in a basement that can tend to be damp and cold. These are just a few affordable ways to give your basement remodel an industrial edge.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Finding a Trusted Contractor

Finding a Trusted Contractor

When you are preparing to make improvements to your home you are investing a lot of money to see your dream become a reality. This means you want to be 100 percent certain you hire a trusted contractor who will complete the project and avoid any disasters requiring a call to Mike Holmes. There are a number of ways to find contractors Ottawa trusts to lessen your worries including: Read Reviews If you want to find a contractor who has performed their services without any problems one of the easiest places to start is to read reviews. The internet is the perfect resource to provide you with all the information you require when it comes to outstanding service. You will find positive and negative comments on reviews from many different websites and a good place to start is often the contractor’s own website. They will offer before and after pictures as well as reviews and testimonials from their happy clients. You can then do further research by entering their company name and the word “reviews” and see what pops up. Word of Mouth Most stellar contractors build their reputation on their own hard work. This is where word of mouth comes into play. Ask around and find out if anyone has used any contractors Ottawa home owners had recommended to them or that they themselves would recommend you try. This will help you find a few names to contact as well as to do further research. Nothing is more convincing than hearing first hand from someone you know and trust that a contractor has performed a project well and you can even ask if you can stop by their home to see the work for yourself. Trusted Resources You can also look at the contractor’s website and see if they are recommended by the Better Business Bureau or are members of any associations. You can look for credentials for training and also research their name on search engines and see if there are any reviews. If you have the actual owner’s name you can check that out as well in case they have worked under different business names in the past that might reveal some shady practices. The more research you do the more information you’ll discover, whether it be raving reviews, or negative reviews explaining in detail the problem and situation. If you are thorough enough you are certain to find contractors Ottawa homeowners can trust.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

3-tips-for-your-basement-renovation

3 Tips for Your Basement Remodel

An unfinished basement isn’t fun for anyone as it is usually left as a disorganized mess providing nothing but a dumping ground for old toys and holiday decorations. Instead of letting it go to waste here are three tips to follow when undergoing a basement remodel Ottawa homeowners love: Keep it Warm Basements tend to feel cold and unwelcoming when they are not properly finished. When going through a basement remodel stick to warm colours on the wall and select welcoming carpet or engineered hardwood to create a cozy space your family and friends will want to use. You have to consider your basement as additional living space and design it to create an inviting area perfect for a home theatre, office, guest room or a play zone for the kids. Choose plush comfortable seating with plenty of throw pillows to make the room perfect for snuggling up and watching movies. Make It Fun Whether you’re interested in creating a kid friendly zone or a man cave, it is important that your basement is fun, entertaining and functional. The basement remodeling Ottawa homeowners undergo usually takes some thought, as they choose what is best for them. Play areas, offices, man caves, and sports zones are just a few ideas of how you can turn your basement into a fun, functional living space. Other ideas you can incorporate into your basement include an arts and crafts table, a wet bar, pool table, air hockey or even ping pong depending on the size of your basement, budget and the design theme. Stay Modern Basements tend to date themselves quite easily, so try to stay modern by keeping up with the current basement design trends. Look at the latest lighting, flooring and design details available such as fireplaces in order to create intimate, cozy spaces that you will all love. You can also consider adding some high end features such as a full bathroom complete with heated floors, a built in sound system for your home theatre and a full bar complete with sink and wine fridge. As well look at modern storage systems that will allow you to make the most of your space. These three tips will make your Ottawa basement remodel quick and easy. Once your basement is finished you will have storage space that is organized and presentable as well as a living space you can use for the whole family to enjoy.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

5 Tips for Updating the Outdated Bathroom

5 Tips for Updating the Outdated Bathroom

Many home owners tend to overlook the bathroom, and end up leaving this renovation until the end. However, having an updated bathroom can add a lot of style and class to your home. A luxurious bathroom can offer a welcome oasis at the end of the day and make mornings more pleasurable when you have all the luxuries of a fine hotel. The bathroom renovations Ottawa home owners require should include these five high design details: 1. Eco-Friendly Choices When designing your bathroom, you want to ensure you are using eco-friendly fixture which can include low flow toilets and shower heads. There are many options that allow you to choose the flush required for “liquid” or “solids” and luxurious shower heads that not only look gorgeous but will provide a very satisfying shower experience. You will not only be helping the environment, but will be saving money by cutting down on your water usage which can lead to big savings annually. Water-Wise Fixtures: Ditch the outdated and embrace low-flow toilets and showerheads. You’d be surprised by the luxurious options available now, offering powerful sprays and sleek designs while using significantly less water. Bonus: dual-flush toilets let you choose the right amount of water for the job, further reducing waste. Green Cleaning Powerhouse: Skip the harsh chemicals and switch to eco-friendly cleaning products made from natural ingredients. Not only are they better for your health and the environment, but they can also be just as effective at keeping your bathroom sparkling clean. Every Drop Counts: Be a leak detective! Fix those pesky dripping faucets promptly to prevent precious water from going down the drain. It’s a small action that makes a big difference for your water bill and the planet. Don’t forget the everyday choices! Opt for eco-friendly cleaning products made from natural ingredients, and fix leaky faucets promptly to prevent wasted water. 2. Stylish Fixtures Avoid going for the standards and seek out fixtures with distinct style. Bathtubs are being designed for comfort as well as focal points for the bathroom. From reconstructed claw foot tubs to stunning waterfall designs, your tub should set the tone for your bathroom. Even toilets offer less utilitarian designs that are built not only for style but also for comfort. Sit in the display tub and on the display toilet to make sure they are comfortable. Go Beyond the Standard: Skip the builder-grade offerings and explore unique options that match your individual taste. Clawfoot tubs add timeless elegance, waterfall showers create a dramatic statement, and unique vanities can become the focal point of the space. Comfort Matters: Looking good is half the battle, but feeling good is just as important. Sit in display models of tubs and toilets before making your final decision. Your bathroom should be a sanctuary of relaxation, not just a beautiful showroom. Function Meets Fashion: Don’t let style compromise practicality. Choose fixtures that look amazing but also cater to your daily needs and lifestyle. Craving a deep soak? Look for bathtubs designed for indulgence. Need a spacious shower for invigorating mornings? Prioritize both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Style doesn’t have to come at the expense of functionality. Choose fixtures that not only look amazing but also fit your needs and lifestyle perfectly. 3. Deep Sinks Deep sinks are the must-have for bathroom renovations in Ottawa. They have taken over from the vessel sink craze as they offer a luxurious detail as well as space to take care of your needs. Vessel sinks are still available, but they tend to date themselves quite quickly. Spacious Sanctuary: Replace shallow bowls with the luxurious depth of a modern sink. Deep sinks offer ample space for washing hands, soaking laundry, or filling large containers without the dreaded splash-over. Practical Elegance: Deep sinks aren’t just about aesthetics; they offer increased functionality. The extra depth means less mess on your countertops and easier handling of larger items. Timeless Trend: Unlike vessel sinks, which can quickly appear outdated, deep sinks offer a classic and versatile design that complements various bathroom styles. Their popularity ensures they’ll remain a stylish choice for years to come. So, if you’re looking for a functional and trendy upgrade for your Ottawa bathroom, consider diving into the deeper delights of a modern deep sink. You’ll be surprised by the difference it makes! 4. Artistic Mirror Mirrors are another design detail that can add sparkle and glamour to the bathroom. Beveled details, beautifully carved frames and additional features such as lighting for applying makeup and shaving make getting ready in the morning less of a chore. You can also consider magnified pull mirrors for more “intimate” beauty tasks such as plucking your eye brows. Embrace Intricate Details: Beveled edges, beautifully carved frames, or even mosaic tiles surrounding the mirror can add a touch of elegance and sophistication. These details act as miniature works of art, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. Light Up Your Routine: Consider mirrors with integrated lighting, perfect for applying makeup or shaving with precision. This not only creates a well-lit space for these tasks but also adds a touch of luxury and modernity. Zoom In for Detail: Don’t forget the practical side! Include a magnified pull-out mirror for intricate tasks like eyebrow plucking or applying eyeliner. This ensures optimal visibility and precision while maintaining a sleek and integrated look. By incorporating these elements, your bathroom mirror transforms from a simple reflection tool into a captivating piece of art that elevates both the style and functionality of your space. Remember, your mirror can be a focal point, reflecting your unique personality and enhancing your daily routines. 5. Shower Showers are also becoming focal points for bathroom renovations. Open showers that do not require doors, tubs or curtains allow more space and are often designed to accommodate two. Double shower heads, steam features, lighting and even music are all part of the modern luxury shower experience. Embrace Openness: Opt for open showers that eliminate doors, tubs, and curtains. This creates

7 Creative Ways to Improve Your Kitchen with Renovations

7 Creative Ways to Improve Your Kitchen with Renovations

Ottawa home owners seek kitchen renovations for many purposes, from sheer aesthetics to a need for more space or storage. Here are seven creative ways to improve your kitchen with renovations: 1. Add an Island When you are in desperate need of a more functional kitchen an island can resolve a number of issues. You can gain plenty of much needed work space, add a place to sit and chat with a few bar stools and can even add appliances such as a cook top, dishwasher or sink. An island is truly one of the best ways to add storage and make a disjointed kitchen more functional. 2. Update your Counters Updating kitchen counters are perfect simple upgrade renovation that home owners love. Granite is ever popular but there are a number of stunning, less expensive, man-made materials you can choose as well. New counter tops are a simple and affordable way to improve the look of your kitchen while providing maintenance free work surfaces that will last. 3. Cabinet Re-facing Not everyone knows that you don’t need to replace all of your counters for a new kitchen look, instead you can always choose cabinet re-facing. Cabinet re-facing is a great way to give your kitchen the face lift it needs without the expensive price tag or the large mess. 4. Reconfiguration Some kitchens can prove to be terribly dysfunctional and poorly planned. Having a bad kitchen layout can make it impossible to cook without bumping into someone or something. A good kitchen layout can not only make your kitchen more stylish and functional but can also increase the value of your home. Although simple upgrades can be nice some kitchens require an entire overhaul. 5. Backsplash and Flooring If you are generally happy with your kitchen’s layout and cabinets but feel it needs a little more flare, a new back splash in hand with new flooring can help tie-in your surfaces well together. With good counter tops as a jumping off point you can create a more finished look that will make you smile while you are cooking. 6. Finishing Touches Even the newest of kitchens can sometimes appear unfinished if you haven’t paid attention to the finite details. Adding recessed cabinet lighting, perfectly matched handles, stunning chandeliers, shiny new sinks, and of course new appliances completes a kitchen with beautiful finishing touches. 7. The Whole Nine Yards Everyone wants their dream home, and by starting with renovating your kitchen you’re taking one more step closer to your dream. Kitchen renovations give you a complete new look from top to bottom custom designed for your taste and budget. Seven kitchen renovations Ottawa homeowners can opt for from simple to complicated.  To reach out, schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

7-Things-to-Look-for-in-a-Contractor

7 Things to Look for When Hiring a Contractor

When you’re ready to plan those long awaited renovations, you want everything to go as smoothly as possible. That means when hiring contractors you want to be certain you are looking for all the right qualifications and qualities. Here are a few things to look for when hiring a contractor in Ottawa: Testimonials or References: The internet can really help you narrow down your list. One of the things you can do is search “contractors Ottawa” to narrow down your options by looking for websites that feature positive reviews. Testimonials speak volumes about how well a contractor works and the level of service they provide. You can also ask them for references. Before and After: You can also look for before and after shots on a contractors website. Seeing results is always an excellent incentive to go with someone who takes pride in their work and is happy to show it. Experience: Even with photos and testimonials it is nice to know your contractor has plenty of experience. Experience not only means knowledge, it also often means they have had years to forge strong relationships with vendors and they can get quality materials at excellent prices. Estimates: You want someone who will come out and assess your space to give you an estimate for your project. Never go into a project blind. You might find out the hard way just how expensive something can get without a budget and estimate in place. Work Ethic: If you are in contact with a contractor and you have difficulty getting them to return your calls, this does not bode well. You want someone with a strong work ethic who will make themselves available. This will speak to their dependability as well. Customer Service: Customer service is extremely important quality to look for when hiring a contractor. You want to work with someone who takes the time to explain everything to you and who will let you know what is happening. You want to be involved in the process and be consulted when key decisions have to be made. Ask them to explain their approach and the process they use on projects so you are comfortable with the way things will work. Timeline: Last but not least, make sure they can provide you with an estimated date of completion as well as a timeline. Looking for these qualities will help you find a contractor who is trustworthy, knowledgeable and experienced.  Please don’t wait to get in touch for a free in-home consultation, you can call us at (613) 727-9427.

Basement Remodeling Trends

5 Basement Remodeling Trends

Basement remodeling in Ottawa is rising in popularity for a number of reasons. Basement renovations are a far more affordable way to add much needed living space as they do not involve costs associated with additions. They also offer an excellent cost value ratio at 77 percent*. This is up 10.7 percent compared to 2012 and is expected to continue to rise in the coming future. With this in mind here are five basement remodeling trends: Modern Basement Living Spaces Instead of a opting for a perfectly polished look homeowners are now opting to go with a loft look for refinished basement family rooms. Traditionally associated with above ground rooms and spaces in renovated industrial buildings you can get the basement loft look by leaving exposed your support beams exposed and by adding polished cement floors. If you live in an older home discover what lies beneath the floors and ceiling to add charm and character. You’ll want to work with a contractor who can tell you what will and will not work to keep things warm and cozy. Spa Bathroom With more and more people desperate for “me” time, the basement spa bathroom is becoming ever more appealing. You can create a truly luxurious bathroom with high end finishes, light fixtures and tubs, as well as massive shower “rooms” complete with multiple shower heads, lights and music. Some people are even adding a private sauna or a steam feature in their showers. The Dream Laundry Room Perhaps an influence from the stunning designs of laundry appliances, the dream laundry room is a new and exciting project for basement remodeling more and more Ottawa home owners are embracing. From exceptional washer and dryer sets to high end finishes such as slate floors and granite counter tops, laundry rooms are becoming a selling feature of the modern home. Master Suite Why confine yourself to a small mediocre master bedroom and a shared bathroom when you can create a stunning master suite in the basement. Ample walk in closet space, dressing rooms and of course an exclusively custom designed en suite turns a master suite basement remodel something many Ottawa home owners desire. Home Theater Last but not least the home theater is the ultimate basement remodeling project Ottawa homeowners love. With complete state of the art equipment, peek a boo screens, wireless surround sound speakers and theater seating families will love this remodel. With basement renovations in Ottawa becoming more popular these five remodel ideas are sure to give you some inspiration for your basement remodel.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 * https://www.realtor.org/field-guides/field-guide-to-remodeling