Mobility Page Blog

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

Trending colour palettes

5 Trending Colour Palettes in Interior Design

Are your walls beginning to look outdated or just dull? Add some new hues to refresh and update your space with these 5 trending colour palettes in interior design that are guaranteed to make you fall in love again with your home. Shimmering Sunset Palette Each year, the Pantone Color Institute announces a colour of the year. For 2019, they picked Living Coral, for its “vibrant, yet mellow” look that “embraces us with warmth and nourishment to provide comfort and buoyancy in our continually shifting environment,” according to the official website.  You can find this colour among other pinks, purples, oranges and yellows in the Shimmering Sunset palette. Choosing any one of the bold, energizing colours that are featured in this particular palette can help to liven up an otherwise dull room and to add a little pop of colour to an accent wall. Colour Trends 2019 Benjamin Moore’s pick of the year was the Metropolitan AF-690, for its adaptive gray hue that offers cool undertones and a calm yet sophisticated charm. The colour is supported by the Colour Trends 2019 palette that’s composed of 15 balanced hues. This includes, Hunter Green, Black Pepper, Hale Navy, and Cloud White, to name a few. It’s a palette that’s timeless and gender-neutral and can work on all walls or rooms. Wanderer A palette that pays homage to mid-western flare. The Wanderer colour palette by Sherwin Williams features warm colours like leather browns and caramels, as well as their pick of the year – The Cavern Clay SW 7701 – a cozy shade of terracotta. Harmonious and earthy, these colours can suit a variety of home styles and tastes. You can use them on the exterior to provide a neutral yet unique look, or inside a rustic home alongside stone and wood accents. Dulux 2019 Trends Colour Palette Dulux carefully curates a décor trends palette each year. This year’s palette features rich, deep hues like Black Forest, and lighter cool neutrals like Spiced Squash to create a perfect mix of modern and old-school combinations. It’s a well-balanced palette of 15 hues that can be used as feature colours or paired with an accent wall to hang back as a neutral. Earth Tones The Behr colour of the year is an inviting blueish-grey tone called Blueprint S470-5 that is one of four standout colours in their Earth Tones palette. Offering warmer tones in taupe and browns, this finely curated palette can be used on walls, exterior surfaces, as well as furniture and decor. They also work incredibly well together to add a splash of colour to anything. Are you planning a home reno this season? Contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427 We can provide you with an upfront quote and assist with creating your vision from design to installation. Our crew is knowledgeable, experienced and fully certified to deliver quality craftsmanship and service. For any of your kitchen, bathroom or home reno need, contact the Renosgroup!

5 Small Ways to Prepare Your Home for the New School Year

5 Small Ways to Prepare Your Home for the New School Year

Back to school time can be a little hectic and stressful for everyone involved. These tips are ways to prepare your home for the new school year and get everyone back on a regular schedule with minimal aggravation. Create A Study Space First things first, you’ll need to find a place in the home to create a space for them to work and study. Often their bedroom is the perfect spot, so you may have to do a little re-organizing to fit a desk and chair. If their bedroom is too small to create a work station, consider setting one up in the den, finished basement, or another quiet area of the home that doesn’t have a TV or other distractions readily available. Make The Space Fully Functional Your goal is to get your kids to work from an established space instead of from their lap or in front of the TV. To keep them focused and to spark their creativity, space will need to be comfortable and functional. You can also help to boost their productivity by putting up a pinboard or calendar to help them keep track of their deadlines, trips and after-school activities. Establish Limits Even when you create a study area for your kids, your home can quickly turn into their dumping ground if you let them. To avoid having papers, binders, backpacks, and books left scattered in every room of the house once school starts, you should establish simple limits to where your kids can work and study. Creating specific areas for their shoes and sports equipment will also help to keep your home under control. Build Some Storage Space Another way to ensure your home and their study space stay tidy and organized is to build some shelves or drawers for them to store their books and supplies neatly. If you’re tight on space, consider adding shelving in the closet area, drawers underneath the desk, an ottoman that could double as a storage trunk or a wall rack behind the door for your kids to utilize. Get A Routine Going It’s important to establish a routine early that will teach your kids how to keep themselves organized and tidy. A great way to do this is to create a checklist for them to follow every morning and before they go to bed. This could include things like putting shoes away, tidying up desk area, putting backpack by the front door and so on. Then give them an incentive for getting their checklist done like extra time for their video games or on social media sites. At the RenosGroup.ca, we can help you build out the perfect study space. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today!

How To Increase Your Home’s Value in 3 Steps

How To Increase Your Home’s Value in 3 Steps

Your home will be one of the largest investments in your lifetime. There are many things you can do for your home to increase its value. Here are some of the suggested ways to do so. Increase The Footage The size of your home will increase the value of your home. If you have a larger home, you will be able to appeal to more buyers. There are ways to make your home feel larger than it is. Adding large windows and vertical blinds or shutters let the sunlight enter a space making the room feel more spacious. Ensuring that everything in your home as a spot is crucial, if it doesn’t it is time to get rid of it. Clutter can make an area feel extremely small but by adding a shelving unit or home extension this will avoid cluster and will ensure organization. By simply adding footage to your home, buyers will notice and will increase the property value. Buyers tend to look at homes that have more bedrooms than their family requires therefore, converting an attic or basement into a bedroom can help in the future. By knocking down a wall, adding an island in the kitchen and sanding the floors this creates an open floor plan, a look that homeowners and potential buyers love.  Fresh Coat Of Paint! Applying a fresh coat of paint will go a long way. This is a very cost-effective method to enhance the value of your home and gives an updated look to future buyers. Even if you are an amateur painter, you will be able to practice your skills by painting your home. You can buy a gallon of paint, rollers, painter’s tape, drop cloths and brushes for around $100. Neutral colours are the best paint selections as it appeals to many people making your house more attractive.   Update The Bathroom and Kitchen Space New homebuyers don’t want to spend their time re-modelling their bathrooms and kitchen space. Many have noticed that making renovations to these spaces are the most impactful as they are high-traffic and highly used rooms. Homebuyers spend more time looking for the updates made in these rooms in comparison to anywhere else in the house. The kitchen’s will give you the biggest return in investment and will increase the value of your home. Replacing old appliances with matching ones, replacing outdated cabinets and by adding a backsplash will add value to your home. For the bathroom, simple renovations like changing the vanity, toilet and fixtures is a great way to enhance the look of your space. Curb Appeal You want your home to be as beautiful on the outside as it is in on the inside. Landscaping is a great way to enhance your curb appeal and will make people turn their heads when they see your home. For homeowners, this is one of the most affordable ways to increase the value of your home. By adding perennial foliage, planting native trees and young shrubs will cut costs and is very low maintenance.  Are you looking to increase the value of your home? By doing these steps, you will surely increase the value of your home. At RenoGroup there is no project that is too large for us to handle. Our process is to plan out the perfect design, plan out the groundwork for the entire project, execute the renovation and deliver the result. We make sure that the homeowner is satisfied with the outcome of the renovation, contact us, or call us today at (613)727-9427 to discuss the next steps to your worthy investment! 

5 Things To Keep In Mind When Buying A New Home

5 Things To Keep In Mind When Buying A New Home

Purchasing a new home is extremely exciting but can also be a lengthy process. As your home is one of the biggest lifetime investments, it is important to make sure you are checking off crucial factors when searching for a new house. Here are the 5 things to keep in mind when buying a new home. List Your Priorities When buying a new home, it is crucial to know what you want but also to be open-minded about possible changes that can be done to the space. Deciding on the type of house you want, whether you want a condo or home is the first step. Jotting down the pros and cons of each space is the next step as this will help you make the process less lengthy. As your living arrangement is a long-term commitment, make the adjustments accordingly to your lifestyle and needs. Make a list of your priorities and make sure there are enough bedrooms for those living in the home. Location and Renovations Are Crucial  Home buyers need to factor in that the home can be renovated but the location in which you’ve bought the home cannot. Choosing a good location will help you in the long run for higher property value and return on investment. If you are parents or are planning on raising a family, it is important to be in a good school district. Local amenities also have a direct impact on homebuyer home decision making. Having grocery stores, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment close by will raise the property value. Make Sure The Renovations Are Up To Date Before you purchase a home, you will want to make sure that all the renovations to the space were done with a permit, meaning that the renovations performed were reviewed by an inspector and were done properly. Ask the previous owners or the real estate agent for all the proper paperwork and conduct a house inspection. Not getting a permit for renovations could cause future complications and can be costly for the homeowners. Buy A House You Can Afford  Be realistic about how much you can afford based on your current income and debts. It is best to purchase a house that is less than what you can afford, giving you extra wiggle room for renovations and unforeseeable changes. Saving up for a down payment and getting your finances in order will make it easier to get a mortgage at the lowest rates, and you will be able to qualify for more loans. As soon as you are thinking of buying a house, start saving up, pay your bills on time and monitor your credit score. Take Your Time Don’t feel pressured in deciding on buying a new house. Since this is a large investment, it is better to take your time to find the house of your dreams than to rush into things. Shop around for houses, mortgages and home insurance to ensure that all your home buying aspects are in order.  If you’ve recently bought a home or are thinking of buying a home, let the experts at RenosGroup transform your house into a home. We have 25 years of combined experience, and we work closely with the clients to ensure that we satisfy their renovation needs and provide high-quality work for every project. Contact us for a quote on your project, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Ready to Renovate? The Time is Now!

Ready to Renovate? The Time is Now!

Timing is everything when it comes to renovating your home. And now is one of the best times to tackle any of those nagging home improvements you’ve been avoiding. The summer season is ideal since you won’t have to endure any wet or cold weather. And best of all, you won’t have to be cooped up inside during the process. Whether you’re gearing up for a home addition, kitchen reno or bathroom upgrade, if you’re ready to renovate, here’s why there’s no better time than now. You Have More Spare Time The summer months are usually when work, school and life in general, tend to slow down a bit. Getting off work a little earlier, having long weekends, and even vacation time away from home can make it more convenient for getting those renovations done. It can also be less disruptive to your daily schedule if you need to be around the home when the contractors are there. You’ll Have Everything Ready For Winter Entertaining Conversely, once the fall and winter seasons arrive, family get-togethers and holiday entertaining kick into full gear. Having your kitchen or bathroom upgraded and ready to take on those family dinner parties means you won’t have to stress about accommodating everyone or feeling embarrassed about the condition of your home. You Can Embrace Your Backyard Any home reno can be messy, dusty and aggravating to live through, especially for an extended time. Planning a summer renovation lets you enjoy and take advantage of your patio and backyard as an extended living space. This means you can avoid living right in the mix of all the dust and debris while your reno project is underway. This can come in very handy during a kitchen renovation since you can also use your barbeque to prepare meals instead of relying on take-out all the time. Warm Weather Makes It Easier For Everyone Of course, the most obvious and beneficial reason why a summer renovation is ideal is thanks to the pleasant weather. Avoiding icy cold temperatures, snow and ice make it easier for everyone involved. This can also equate to fewer weather delays, which will keep your contractors on time, on budget and on schedule. Enjoy A Fresh New Look The summertime is also a great time to reassess your home in the sunlight and see what really needs attention after those gruelling winter months. The brighter, longer days, colourful blossoms and pleasant summer vibes offer inspiration and energy to tackle those areas that have been swept aside for too long. This is why homeowners often love to complete upgrades around the home during this season. They get to refresh and liven it up during the glorious summer months while still being able to enjoy the pleasant weather. Renovations tend to become less of a chore as a result and more of an exciting project when you combine warm weather and maybe a refreshing cold beverage or two at the end of the day. Though there’s always debate surrounding the best time of year to take on renovations, for certain areas, like the bathroom or kitchen, the summer is always ideal. The weather, extra time and slower pace, and the convenience of being able to cook outside all make it much more enjoyable and easier to cope with. If you’re ready for a remodel in your home this summer, now is the best time to book in your contractors. At RenosGroup, we are kitchen and bathroom specialists serving homeowners with the best quality workmanship throughout Ottawa. Contact us, or give us a call today at (613)727-9427 or get in touch to learn how to get started.

Woman relaxing in a hammock with a book, outdoor furniture design trends for summer.

7 Design Trends in Outdoor Furniture

The sunny summer days are here, but we all know they don’t last long. That’s why Canadians are always eager to soak up as much of the pleasant weather as possible by taking full advantage of the backyard. Whether it’s family barbeques, pool parties or just lounging in the sun, we’ve rounded up the top design trends in outdoor furniture 2019 so you can fully embrace the sunshine as you please. Wicker Sofas Rustic style, wooden sofas are a popular staple for patio season this year. Wicker, teak or even faux teak have that sultry beachy look that just screams summertime lounging. This style is perfect for an extended sunroom or just stretching out on the porch with friends and family since these chunky sofas can accommodate more people. Add on your favourite cushions and throw for a splash of colour. Retro Mish Mash You read that right! Retro styles are always a popular design trend, and now, you can mix and combine different pieces and materials to create a colourful and funky outdoor space. Think 80s and 90s style furniture with unique shapes, bold colours like orange and blue, and big fluffy pillows to tie it all together. Lights, Lights & More Lights Any cozy, comfy, and inviting outdoor setting is often created by the strategic use of lighting. No matter what furniture you decide to include in your outdoor space, to devise an intimate and enjoyable atmosphere, the lighting you choose really counts. Whether it’s string lights, garden lights, lanterns or even candles, consider how you can incorporate more light into your space to design the perfect outdoor nook that you can enjoy well into those warm summer nights. Simple & Lightweight Minimalism has been sweeping throughout the interior design world this year, and it shows no signs of slowing down. But beyond the interior of the home, this decluttered lifestyle is naturally being infused throughout the exterior as well. Simple, lightweight patio pieces are increasingly popular as a result, with small basic tables, chairs and cushions to set the stage. This is especially useful for those with limited space since you can conveniently move everything around and store furniture away whenever you need to. Hammocks & Hanging Chairs If you have neighbouring trees that permit or an alfresco dining area, you can embrace this boho-style trend in outdoor furniture this year. You can find an array of sumptuous hanging wicker chairs, outdoor fabrics, and cozy hammocks that are durable, hardy and perfect for lounging in the sunshine with your favourite beverage, book – or both. Multi-Functional, Modular Furniture With the desire to easily accommodate guests, friends and family, more homeowners are flocking to modular style furniture that can be used for multiple purposes. Couches can be moved apart and rearranged if needed, coffee tables can provide stools for extra seating, and bench seating can offer extra storage to tuck away the cushions. This versatile style is one of the hottest growing trends this year for both exterior and interior living. Geometric Shapes & Patterns Though retro and rustic are still among the favourites, the ultra-modern style is always a popular hit, combining a variety of geometric shapes and patterns. Vibrant colours, over-sized asymmetrical shapes and chic, contemporary pieces create unique, eye-catching statement pieces that are definite show-stoppers for 2019.Could your home use some TLC before your first summer barbeque? Trust the experts to make it happen at the RenosGroup.ca. We’re your kitchen and bathroom renovation specialists, serving the Ottawa area for years. Get in touch, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today to learn how we can get your home reno projects done and dusted so you can relax and enjoy the summer.

Woman enjoying natural sunlight indoors with a cup of coffee and a book.

How Does Natural Sunlight in Our Homes Impact Us?

Wondering if it’s worth it to perform a few renos to increase the natural light in your home? Sunlight is a powerful thing that benefits our health and the interior of the home. It can help to improve our mood, sleep and make us feel happier with that dose of vitamin D.  If you’re like most people, you likely spend almost 90% of your time indoors, which means you end up getting less exposure to fresh air and sun rays. Today, there’s a plethora of growing research that shows just how negatively this can impact our overall health and wellbeing. That’s why it’s always a worthy project to invest in when it comes to inviting more sunshine inside your home.  Read on to learn more about how natural sunlight in our homes impact us. Save Energy And Money First off – more sunlight inside means a brighter, bigger looking home. And aside from it helping to create the illusion of more space, when done strategically, it can also help to heat and illuminate the space inside. This can equate to significant savings on your monthly energy bills since you won’t have to waste as much electricity. Reduce Anxiety and Stress Did you know that immersing yourself in 30 minutes of sunlight can help to soothe and calm your body and mind? It’s true! Studies have shown a significant link to this correlation and how natural light helps us cope better with stress and anxiety. So if you’re feeling pent up, think of how you can invite more of those sun rays in your home. Stay Focused If you work from a home office or dark cubicle, make sure to take frequent breaks to bask in some rays. Even looking out the window for a couple of minutes can help boost your sense of alertness, focus and productivity. Improve Sleep Having trouble sleeping? Increased exposure to sunshine daily can help to regulate our circadian rhythm and sleep patterns so you can feel rested and ready to take on your day. Get Your Daily Dose of Vitamin D We all know that vitamin D is important for our body, but most of us don’t realize just how necessary it is. Vitamin D is essential for our health as it helps to regulate the vitality of our bones, immune system, skin, brain, cardiovascular system – and it’s involved in maintenance and function of over 200 genes throughout our body. By letting in more natural light into your home, you can ensure you’re getting that daily dose without having to worry. Keep Your Plants Alive Are you struggling to keep your plants alive? More light means a better environment for your plants to grow and flourish in. And since plants help to filter and detoxify the air, this will help keep your air quality at home fresher and healthier, which is especially beneficial if you suffer from allergies. Reduce Blood Pressure When you’re soaking in those glorious rays, your body is also undergoing chemical reactions that alter molecules like nitric oxide which lowers blood pressure. This in turn, also helps to lower the risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. Reduce Mold And Mildew Growth Mold and mildew spores thrive in dark, damp and humid environments. And it doesn’t take much for spores to surface. That’s why having a bright and airy home is important for reducing the likelihood of mold from growing in your home. These toxic spores can compromise your home and your health. More sunlight will help keep your home dry and mildew-free. Prevent SAD There are many people who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which spurs up bouts of depression during the transition of seasons. Though there’s still much to learn about this condition, what researchers have found is the correlation between SAD and a decrease of serotonin and melatonin which contributes to an interruption in sleep patterns. This happens from our decreased exposure to natural light. So you see just how powerful and important it is to get in some sunlight every single day – especially during the fall and winter seasons. Improve Mood Ever heard of our “feel-good hormones”? Well, exposure to sunlight generates these hormones and sends them rushing through our bodies. These boost energy levels while making us feel happier. It also generates serotonin production in our brain, which helps regulate mood. If you’re ready to take on a home renovation project to increase the amount of natural sunlight in your home, contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427. Get reliable, expert service that you can depend on.

Preparing garden beds and planting flowers for a summer-ready outdoor space.

9 Tips and Tricks to Prepare Your Home for Summer

It’s easy to underestimate the amount of work it takes to get your home looking refreshed, clean and presentable after the messy winter weather. That’s why we always recommend getting a head start as early as possible so you can get it done to embrace and enjoy the beautiful summer weather. Learn some of our top tips and tricks to prepare your home for the summer season. Go Deep With Your Spring Cleaning With so much to tackle after the winter, it can be overwhelming when you realize how much maintenance and work your home really needs. The problem is when there’s so much to do, many of us tend to skim over the surface and avoid those deeper levels of grime that could really use some attention. To save you from having to deal with those chores during the sunny weather, break up your to-do list into baby steps so you can focus on cleaning one area at a time thoroughly so you won’t have to keep sweeping and mopping as much once the summer sun shines in. Revive Your Garden Now This time of year is also ideal to start prepping your garden beds. And since outdoor spaces play such an integral role for lounging and entertaining during the summer, you want to make sure it’s ready to show off well ahead of your first barbeque. Carve out one weekend to rake, mow, trim, plant and get your landscape summer ready. Then add some extra touches to transform your garden into a cozy and inviting space. You can do this with simple additions like installing pot lights in the deck or placing a fire pit in the backyard. Be Prepared for Guests The warmer weather gets people out and about and more eager to pop in for a visit, which is why you should always be prepared for guests. Entertaining is what this season is all about, so stock up some of the essentials you’ll need, and keep your interior and exterior tidy so you’re not scrambling when there’s an unexpected knock at the door. Perform Preventative Maintenance The combination of snow, ice and frigid cold temperatures over the course of the winter can wreak havoc on certain areas of the home. That’s why preventative maintenance is always important to do after each winter. We recommend having your air conditioner, HVAC unit, eaves troughs, lawn equipment and even your grill looked at. If there’s any damage to these areas, like your A/C, fixing it now can prevent a lot of sweaty aggravation once the weather heats up. Take Advantage of Summer Discounts If you need your carpets cleaned, windows washed or gutters cleared out, hire a company during the summer. Since this is their slower season, many companies usually offer discounted rates. So whatever you need to be done, book it during the summer! Think Ahead to Prevent Water Damage After the big winter thaw and added moisture from spring, water damage is one of the biggest issues homeowners face during this time of year. Plus, the hot and humid summers can conjure up some massive storms which can cause flooding. To avoid any water damage, think ahead by having any vulnerable areas inspected and repaired. This includes the roof, windows, gutters, sump pumps, foundation and any noticeable cracks. Tackling these areas now can prevent water damage and save you thousands of dollars in repairs. Repair Interlock Though interlock stones may be durable, they can still end up chipped and loose after the winter. Ignoring any issues can make your walkways unsafe, especially during the winter season when the ground is covered in snow and ice. To keep the exterior of your home safe and looking sharp, get any damaged patio stones replaced. Update Your Bathroom or Kitchen Seeing your kitchen or bathroom in the summer sunlight can make you realize how badly they need updating — if this sounds like you, be sure to book in your reno early so you can get these staple areas of the home done, dusted and looking summer ready for hosting family and friends. Book Your Home Addition Whether you’re planning to rent out an income suite or just add on more space for your growing family, now’s the time also to organize, plan and book your contractors well in advance.  Having to face these renos once the warm weather tapers off is never an enjoyable experience. Plan ahead of time with these tips and tricks to prepare your home for summer. And when you need repairs, renovations or maintenance done around the home, contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427  Our team at Renosgroup can tackle all of your household projects!

Kitchen renovation in progress, contractor installing cabinets and island.

Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Kitchen Renovation

Are you planning for a kitchen renovation? Whether you’re just adding a little more space or doing a full redo, here’s everything you need to consider when taking on a this type of home upgrade. Pick a Theme First things first – choose a theme and stick with it. How do you determine your theme? Start by figuring out what you want to achieve with your new design. Is it to have more counter space or to just upgrade older features? Once you know what you’re trying to accomplish, determine the style you’re going for – traditional, country, modern, deco or something in between. Then it’s time to figure out your budget and materials you prefer. Remember, the goal is to create a space that speaks to you and your lifestyle, while also ensuring that your design looks cohesive and comes together nicely. For instance, if you want to create a country kitchen design, think of using reclaimed wood, exposed brick, hardwood flooring, and colorful fixtures. Kitchen Flow You should also consider how to optimize your kitchen space to make your life easier. This includes setting up the areas so that several family members can utilize the area at once, without crashing into each other. Think about the flow and layout of your space so you can utilize it with ease. Island or No Island? Kitchen islands have been a popular choice for years, but many people are bucking the trend to go with a big kitchen table instead. Whatever you decide, make sure you hire a renovation company who has experience in this area and can help you to get the most out of your space – island or no island. Flooring With such a high amount of foot traffic in this part of the home, kitchen floors can take a serious beating over time. Spilled food, scrapes, and scuff marks can mark up the floor in no time which is why it’s important to always choose a durable material. Ceramic tile, stone, and bamboo are popular choices that look great, are durable, and can still look attractive when they take a beating. Sink Design Though it’s often overlooked, the sink design is more important than you may think. It can easily alter the look of your kitchen and impact the function of your layout at flow. So take some time to properly determine what’s best, whether it’s a single, double or triple basin style sink. Cupboard Space There are two main reasons why people usually choose to renovate – to improve the layout and to update the design. The cabinets and cupboards can be a key factor to think about when figuring this out for your kitchen. We recommend talking to a renovation expert who can show you all of the different materials and ways to add more functionality, space, and style to your home. Appliances and Hardware Imagine having more space to fit a double oven or a larger fridge and freezer. When you’re planning to renovate, consider what appliances you’d like to install, as well as the kinds of hardware to include. If you plan to upgrade your appliances, be sure to consider Energy Star products that will help cut down on your utility bills and increase the resale value of your home. Backsplash You should also carefully plan out what type of backsplash you would like to incorporate into your design. The backsplash provides a protective layer, hides any flaws, and can even help increase the value of your home if used right. By investing a little money to install a new backsplash during your kitchen remodel, you can instantly improve the look and style of your kitchen. Lighting Good lighting is essential for any space. Be sure to talk to a professional who can properly plan out your lighting scheme so you can utilize as much natural light as possible, and get as much artificial light as you need when you’re cooking up a feast in the evenings. Don’t Forget About Your Countertops There are so many different types of materials to choose from when designing your countertops. Quartz and granite are popular options, but you can also use decorative tiles, metal and natural stone. Just remember to match your countertop to your theme. When you’re ready to start planning a kitchen renovation, contact us at the RenosGroup.ca. We’ll help transform your kitchen into a beautiful space that is functional and stylish. With over 25 years of combined industry experience, there’s no vision too big for us! Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to learn more about our services or book a free quote.

Finished basement entertainment area with red theater seating and home media system.

10 Ways to Make Your Basement Fun and Useful

Renovating your basement can add more living and storage space to your home, but it can also be used as a more creative space. Whether it be for your kids or for you, here are 10 ways to make your basement fun and useful for the whole family. Kid’s Playroom When you can’t move around freely without tripping over toys, consider creating a playroom that both you and your kids will love. Renovating the basement into an area where the kids can play will help you reclaim more space for yourself, keep your breakables safer, and give the kids their own dedicated area to let loose and have fun. Crafts Area Has your kitchen been taken over by your kid’s art projects? Or are you sick of scraping glue off the table? Building an arts and crafts area in your basement can solve all of these messy, crafting woes. With a dedicated space in the basement, you set up the ideal space where the kids can be creative without ruining your dining table or creating a mess in the kitchen. Music Studio Creating a mini music studio area where you can escape to play and create can be fun for the entire family. You can even take it up a notch and build out a full-blown recording studio in your basement if your budget permits. All you need is to build a separate room to store all the equipment in, along with an adequate number of power sources, an air-intake system, and high-quality soundproofing, so the neighbours don’t complain. Wine Cellar Are you a wine connoisseur? If so, why not show off and maintain your collection with  your own custom-built cellar? The dark, cool environment in the basement is perfect for a project such as this. And it doesn’t require much to get started. When you have a passionate hobby that you really enjoy – like tasting or collecting wine – it’s worth the effort to indulge and create a space where you can include it more in your life. Yoga Studio If you’re into yoga, you know how important it is to get some peace and quiet during your practice. By renovating your basement into a yoga studio, you can create your own quiet little sanctuary. Photography Studio Renting out studio space to create and develop your photographs can be incredibly expensive. If you have some spare space in your basement, you can create your own darkroom in the comfort of your home. Fitness Studio Is your treadmill collecting dust or taking up space? Or are you tired of paying for expensive gym memberships you never use? Consider turning your basement into a fitness studio so you can get all the exercise you need in the privacy of your own home. Art Studio If you’re a painter or artist, you’ll need room to perfect your craft and get messy. A small bedroom space often won’t cut it, and when you’re working with paints and different mediums, you’ll also need proper air ventilation. Turning an unfinished basement into an art studio might just be the perfect solution to provide the space you need to focus. Entertainment Area Have you always wanted your own games room or an area to host friends? You can easily turn your basement into an entertainment area. With a cool bar, comfy seating and some entertainment included, your basement might just end up being the best spot to kick off the weekends. Man Cave or Woman Cave One of the most popular basement transformations we see nowadays includes the man or woman cave. If you need a space to call your own, a dedicated ‘cave’ can do just that. As a busy member of the family, you deserve to have space where you can relax, enjoy and get some much-needed reprieve. So think of certain things that you’d like to include that can create an inviting space where you can unwind whenever you need to. Comfortable seating, cozy carpets, and comforting ambience are a few ideas to get you started. If you want to turn one of these creative ideas into your reality, contact us at the RenosGroup.ca. We’ll transform your unfinished or neglected basement into a fun and useful space that everyone can enjoy together. Learn more about our services or contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today for a free quote!

Luxurious indoor pool and basement renovation ideas for a home addition.

The 10 Home Additions You Need in Your Life

If you love your current home but are looking for ways to add more space to it, or spruce it up, a home addition can help. It can add square footage to your home while also adding more value to it if you plan to sell. If you’re not sure where to start or what the best addition is for you, check out these 10 home additions you need in your life! Sun Room Looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors from inside the comfort of your home? A sunroom is a perfect addition for your home. It lets you take advantage of the beautiful weather any time of year while staying cozy and warm. Just remember to factor in all the furniture you would like to add when creating the floor plan. And don’t forget heating! Indoor Pool If you have the budget to add your own private oasis to your home, then why not splurge on an indoor swimming pool? An enclosed indoor pool area ensures that you can swim and lounge year-round, even when it’s cold outside! Your enclosure can also be designed to maximize the sunlight in the winter and fresh air during the summer. Go big or keep it simple with a small lap pool or jacuzzi – the options are endless. Home Office Has your work from home business suddenly taken off and you need more space to operate? Instead of spending money on rent, why not build a home office? This addition can be as simple or complex as you wish. You could build out the empty attic or even add on a new wing to your home that has a separate entrance for clients. In downtime, you can repurpose this space for entertaining guests! Guest Wing If your kid or parents decide to move in, you could end up needing some extra space to accommodate them – somewhere that’s separate from your home. If you have the space to build a guest ‘cottage’ or wing, this can give you all the space you need. A guest area is great because it can also be used for extra storage space, art or exercise studio, an office, and even a rental unit. Second or Third Storey If you’ve outgrown your home and need a much larger space, then an additional storey can make a big difference. Transform a small bungalow into a family home with a full makeover or by adding a third storey space to accommodate a growing family. Remember to check all safety codes and regulations and abide by the by-laws. Room Addition A single room structure built onto the side of your house can be used to add an extra bedroom and bathroom to your home. This is a great option when you’re having a new baby or welcoming an ageing parent and don’t want to move. And when you’re creating an entirely new space, remember that you can customize every aspect of the build to suit your needs. Bump Out Looking to add more room to expand your kitchen or dining room space? A bump out is a great way to add a few more feet to your home without breaking the bank on a full addition. They are often built to enhance an existing room by providing some extra space. Garage Addition Just moved into a new home but want more garage space for a second car or additional storage? A garage addition is the way to go! Depending on how much room you have you could build a two or even three car garage. Garage Renovation Looking for a more cost-effective way to add an extra room to your home? If you don’t use your garage, you can easily convert it into a livable space. Renovating a one car garage will instantly add footage to your home. This will likely require some demolition work, flooring, electrical, and framing, but on a cost basis, it’s much more affordable than the above build-outs. Porch and Deck Additions You can even extend your space by adding a new deck or porch to your home. This will allow you to get more room to relax and welcome guests. These types of additions can also increase your home’s value and add a little more curb appeal to your lot. Remodelling a home can be a huge undertaking, which is why you should only hire a professional renovation company to do the work. They will help you determine how much space you need, which addition is best for your home, the type of materials required, and the estimated cost of the project. Only a professional, experienced company will be able to assemble a qualified team and ensure that the construction is done properly. When you’re ready to start your addition process, contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today

Luxurious bathroom design with walk-in shower, modern vanity, and freestanding tub.

How to Effortlessly Add Luxury to Your Bathroom

Creating a more luxurious design doesn’t always have to include a major overhaul. You can effortlessly add luxury to your bathroom by making a few minor changes, and by focusing on those focal areas that really count in the design. Learn how to transform your bathroom into a blissful spa-like oasis with our handy tips below. Upgrade Your Flooring If your tiles are almost dizzying to look at, scream the 1980s, or just look old, worn and frail, then there’s no way around it – they’ve got to be replaced. But again, this doesn’t mean you need to blow through your entire budget for new flooring. Today, there are so many different varieties to choose from, including impressive faux wood and even concrete if you prefer the industrial look. If your tiles are in half decent shape, then consider simply using commercial grade cleaner to remove any grim and dirt along the grout to spiff them up. Throw Down A Quality Rug Another quick and simple way for instantly improving the look of your floor is by replacing your old, worn mats with something a little more higher-end, like a Persian or shag-style rug. This can hide any semi-rough patches on your floor and spiff up the entire look of your bathroom with some plush softness under your toes. Replace Your Shower Faucet A shower faucet that sputters and splashes should also be replaced. The shower is where you get to pamper yourself and unwind after a long, hard day at work. So don’t be afraid to splurge a little to upgrade your showerhead to something you’ll love and appreciate each and every day. Shower renovations to replace this can also be done locally! Rain style and Smart showerheads are two popular choices today. But you can find all sorts of styles to suit your home and budget. Replace Vanity, Sink and Faucets What’s your first impression when you look at your sink and vanity area? If it’s drab and unimpressive, it should be renovated since this is one of the focal areas of the bathroom that our eyes are drawn to first. So it counts! The good news is that you can easily find a new vanity for very affordable prices today. Add on a chic and modern bowl sink with polished brass or silver faucets, and you’ll be amazed at how much this will enhance the entire look of your bathroom. Don’t forget to check out our online product showroom and consult with a professional about the installation. Hang Some Art One of the easiest ways to effortlessly add luxury to your bathroom is by simply personalizing it with some art or frame photos. This will give your bathroom some added flair and show off your personal, artistic style. Add Some Greenery Adding some greenery throughout the home not only helps to spruce up the place instantly, but it also helps improve the quality of air and even your mood. So consider where you can add some plants in your bathroom. Some good suggestions for plants include English Ivy, Boston ferns, Peace Lily and Spire plants, all of which can add that elegant little touch to your space. Focus On Finishing Touches Finishing touches make all the difference, and the bathroom is no exception. Replace that old toilet brush and garbage bin with ceramic, or stainless steel ones, get some luxurious fluffy towels that match your colour scheme. You can even take some ideas from luxury hotels by placing a vintage tray with spa-like items, lotion or rolled up hand towels and more. Luxury Lighting Lighting is always important in the bathroom. You need to be able to see what you’re doing, but at the same time, you want a cozy space that isn’t always drenched in bright, blinding light – especially when you want to enjoy a soothing soak in the tub. If your bathroom currently has overpowering lighting, or it’s just dingy looking, swap it out for something new and modern instead. Installing a dimmer switch can also come in handy when you want to adjust the level of light for your needs. Statement & Ornate Mirrors The mirror is also a small but significant feature that helps tie your design together. When choosing your statement mirror, just make sure it goes with the theme of your bathroom – whether it’s rustic farmhouse, modern and minimalistic, traditional or vintage. As you can see, there are so many different ways to add luxury to your bathroom and home, without taking on a significant renovation or spending more than your budget permits. Often, it just means focusing on the areas that are most in need of some TLC. Performing a few minor upgrades, like the shower, floor, sink or vanity, can make all the difference in transforming your bathroom into a luxury haven that you can feel proud to show off to your guests. At RenosGroup, we can help you make that dream bathroom a reality. Contact us, or give our expert team a call at (613)727-9427 to get started on your home project!