Mobility Page Blog

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

Bathroom renovation design sketch highlighting vanity and sink area.

4 Things to Consider When Doing a Bathroom Reno

Taking on a bathroom renovation can be a grueling project, but one that’s worthy of the effort – especially if you ever consider placing your home up for sale. It can bump up the resale value, and of course, boost the luxury of your interior. But before you begin knocking down walls and removing the toilet, there are some important things to consider when doing a bathroom reno. Here’s what they include: Do you have an alternative bathroom to use? Remember, once you begin that renovation to your bathroom, it will become inaccessible for a while. So using the toilet, sink, and shower won’t exactly be an option. That’s why before getting started you should figure out a plan for these important necessities. Whether you have a second bathroom to use, or the neighbour is kind enough to let you use their shower, make a plan for bathroom usage so that you won’t end up stuck when it really matters. What sort of functionality will you need? Is this going to be a primary guest bathroom or one more so for your own personal use? This is important to determine so that you can think about the layout and functionality of the bathroom. Are you looking to create a luxurious, spa-like getaway in the comfort of this bathroom, or is it merely an additional one to free up your primary one during those hectic mornings? This will help you determine whether a bathtub is necessary or not, whether two sinks are necessary or not, along with other design features that will create your desired space. Will you need storage incorporated into the design? If you live in a condo or are simply limited on space, you know that any potential for storage is important. Think about how and where areas for storage can be incorporated and how you can optimize space for those essential toiletries. What is your budget? Determining your budget is the safest way to keep your expenditures at a range that won’t shock you once everything is completed. A bathroom reno project can quickly turn into one that ends up costing much more than anticipated, especially with all of the high-end décor items and fancy faucets that look so tempting at the home décor store. In order to avoid serious temptation and stick to what you can afford, create a budget before you begin shopping for your remodeling items. Bathroom renos can be a big undertaking, but they can also be fun! Consider each of these factors first before jumping ahead with your Ottawa bathroom renovation.  To learn more things to consider when doing a bathroom reno, don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

White subway tile kitchen backsplash protecting wall from cooking mess and heat.

5 Benefits of Installing a Kitchen Backsplash

Backsplashes installed above the kitchen countertops aren’t just placed simply for the purpose of aesthetic appeal. Although they do look great and enhance a kitchen design, they actually serve a greater purpose. Below we’ve outlined a few of the benefits of installing a kitchen backsplash. Protects Paint and Wallpaper Your kitchen is the most used room in your entire home. And with all of the baking and cooking that happens there on a regular basis, it doesn’t take long for it to get messy. Backsplashes are great for this purpose since they cover the area of the wall above the countertop to protect the paint or wallpaper that’s on it from getting dirty. So when that tomato sauce starts to bubble and splash, you can simply wipe it off the tile instead of worrying about it staining the wall. Covers Gaps in the Walls Often when countertops are installed – especially granite ones – the cuts of it can leave some minor gaps between the end of the counter and the wall behind it. By installing backsplash tiles, it covers these gaps and makes it much more appealing. Protects Against Water and Mould In addition to covering gaps, it also provides a barrier against water. It blocks any water from seeping behind the counter and wall, which can also prevent the growth of mould. Protects Against Heat When the stove is blazing and there’s a cooking frenzy happening, all of the heat from the stove can gradually affect the wall close to it over time. Tile can also provide a barrier for the wall from the heat or those rising flambé flames that can get a little too hot sometimes. Enhance the Aesthetic Appeal of your Kitchen If you walk into a kitchen, the backsplash is often one of the first elements that get noticed. And with the wide variety of styles, colours, and patterns available today, you can get creative with it and add that splash of colour and flair to your kitchen décor. So if you’ve been toying with the idea of whether it’s worth it to add in backsplash to your kitchen reno, consider each of these factors. You can ask just about any interior designer and they will encourage you to use them. They not only look great, but they can extend the design of your kitchen by providing that necessary barrier to protect the wall to keep your kitchen looking great for years to come.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Architectural concept plans and blueprints for kitchen renovation and home remodel design.

Open Concept or Closed?

Open concept or closed – that is the question for many attempting to map out the design of their kitchens. Like anything, there are pros and cons to both, but it really comes down to personal preference and functionality. While an open concept can provide the convenience of spending time with guests and family while preparing meals, the closed concept can give you that sense of privacy when you end up getting a little messy. So which is the best option for you? Here we break down a few of the pros and cons of each to help you determine what suits your lifestyle and design best. Open Concept Pros Open concepts kitchens generally provide a greater abundance of natural light since there are fewer barriers in place. This can make your space feel airy, bigger, and well ventilated too. When preparing meals for family and friends you don’t have to be secluded. Without the barriers, you get to join in on the conversation and fun while prepping for dinner. If you love to cook then you can easily show off your culinary style and skills. Without those walls, everyone gets to see the chef at work. You can also keep an eye on the kids (and the pets) when you’re busy getting dinner ready. Cons Although it can be a great way to show off your culinary skills, it also means that the accompanying mess will be on display as well. So if you’re one that hates the idea of making a mess in front of the guests, a closed concept might be best. Without any barriers or walls in place, it could create a lot of ruckus with the pots, pans, and dishes clattering about. All eyes are on you when you are in there prepping for a meal, so if you don’t like the pressure of having an audience, then it may create an uncomfortable environment. Sometimes, open concepts can remove a sense of coziness from the interior without having some of those barriers that make great nooks and crannies. Closed Concept Pros A kitchen can act as a sanctuary for some homeowners and having a closed layout can provide that sense of space where you can get into the groove of cooking without interruptions or distractions. Having a closed concept kitchen also helps to contain some of those aromas stemming from your cooking. They also help to contain your mess so that you won’t feel obliged to tackle it immediately to get it out of sight when guests are over. With more walls, comes more room to store things. You have more storage options. Cons Closed concepts tend to be old fashioned. So if modern design and trends are important to you, this could be reason enough. This design can also become outdated easily, and if you ever happen to dislike it in the future, having to rip down walls and renovate could be a costly endeavour. With more walls in place, less natural light can flow through, making your space appear darker with less ventilation. This can also make your interior appear smaller and more confined. There are many pros and cons to each option. The key is spending the time to weigh and consider each. By doing so you can determine which will suit your needs and design best. Planning a kitchen renovation or home remodel? RenosGroup.ca can help. Get a free estimate today!  Or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Unfinished basement renovation with exposed framing, ductwork, and construction materials.

5 Reasons to Finish Your Unfinished Basement

The basement can often become one of the most neglected rooms in a home. But it can also have some of the best potential for providing additional space for a variety of purposes. It can benefit your entire family and your resale value in the future. If you’ve been thinking about finishing your basement, consider these five reasons to finish your unfinished basement. Create More Space Having an unfinished basement is really wasting a space that could have so much potential. Depending on the size and layout, you can create an additional space that can be turned into whatever you need or want in your home. Whether it’s another bedroom, an income suite, a children’s playroom, or even a den for yourself where you get to indulge in your personalized entertainment space – there are so many options! Increase the Value of Your Home Aside from additional space, investing in finishing your basement can also significantly improve the value of your home. Potential buyers want to purchase a home where there’s little renovation needed. Having your basement upgraded and finished is one of the best ways to keep buyers interested in your property if you should ever consider selling in the future. Increase Storage and Organization Basements are the perfect place to store away items that aren’t frequently used. You can create a space in the basement purely for keeping all of your storage organized and tidy, while still have space to utilize for enjoyment. So rather than having to rely on your garage for storing away old boxes and risk having them ruined by any potential mildew, you can keep them safe and dry, out of sight and well organized. Improve Health and Safety Finishing your basement not only provides more space and storage, but it can also improve the health and safety of your home as well. Basements that are neglected can become a haven for mould to develop and grow since water damage and leaks can become a common problem. By taking the time to renovate it now, you can avoid and eliminate the potential for toxic mold and water problems in the future. Comfortable and Economical There’s no better place to get some reprieve during the summer heat waves than down in the cool basement. But when it’s unfinished, no one wants to even consider stepping down there. By renovating it into a comfortable space, you and the family can utilize it during the summer, and even save on those energy bills by avoiding the need to crank up the A/C as often. If you’re undecided about investing in your unfinished basement, it truly can be one of the most rewarding projects to undertake. Aside from it improving the safety and resale value of your home, you can create a comfortable and economical space that you and the family can enjoy.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

House entrance pathway and landscaping improving curb appeal.

How a New Front Entrance Way Can Change the Look of Your House

Changing your entrance way can improve the look of your entire house. You can guide guests and friends into your home with that first great initial impression. And all it takes is a few new enhancements to really show how a new front entrance way can change the look of your house. Improve Functionality The first few steps are always the most important. And having that first point of entry that’s well laid out with good functionality is important. Whether it’s a hot and balmy day or a cold winter night, guests and family need to have enough space to manoeuvre comfortably once they’re past the front door. Consider elements for containing shoes and placing coats and boots so they aren’t in the way and cramping up space. Add Leading Lines with a Pathway If you’re ever in conversation with an artist or photographer, they can tell you about the power of designs that lead and invite the eyes. Whether it is family or simply people passing on by, a fresh, new entrance way can guide the eyes of guests as they make their way towards your home. And having a well maintained, clearly marked path is key. Elevate the Architecture Whether it’s an arched doorway, spotlights, or columns, there are countless ways that you can really elevate and enhance the architecture of your home. If you’ve put effort into the interior design, why not make the exterior entrance way just as beautiful? Add Personality When you’re at home, you want to show off your own unique style and personality. You can get creative right from the start and show off your bold or quirky side. It’s your home, so it should represent your personality. Boost your Curb Appeal Simple elements such as lights that can lead up your pathway are great for making your landscape, entrance way and entire home stand out and have that extra pop of curb appeal. You can have solar lights lead the way up your driveway or even install some that can reflect onto the surface of your home to make it more inviting. A new front entrance way can change the look of your house and boost up that curb appeal. With a few simple touches that incorporate functionality, leading lines, and light, along with elements that reflect your own personal style and taste, you can change the look of your house and make it more inviting that ever.  To learn more about how a new front entrance way can change the look of your house, please don’t wait to get in touch for a free in-home consultation, you can call us at (613) 727-9427.

Modern interior design with patterned wallpaper and yellow accent furniture.

The Pros and Cons of Paint vs. Wallpaper

We’ve broken down some pros and cons of paint vs. wallpaper for you to consider when it’s time to make a decision that you won’t regret. The walls of a home are no small matter when it comes to putting the finishing design touches on your home renovation project. After all, they do take up a great deal of space, and therefore, can change and transform the look of your entire home. Whether it’s soft and light, or bold and cozy – your walls matter. When it comes to deciding between paint or wallpaper, which is the best to choose? Wallpaper Pros Durability – Wallpaper can be very durable against wear and tear over the years. If you’re in search of something to stand strong against all of those dirty fingerprints from the kids, this could be worth considering. Versatility – Although paint is available in a variety of different colours, with wallpaper, you can incorporate different designs that you can’t achieve with paint. There is great versatility if you’re looking to add more flair and personality to a wall and room. Preparation – Depending on the state of your wall, it can take more effort and time for preparing the surface for paint. Cons Expensive – Wallpaper will generally cost more than paint, especially considering the size and surface you are covering. Difficulty Installing – Although you can attempt to wallpaper yourself, it can be much more challenging to apply correctly without any bumps. Having a professional is usually the best way to ensure it is done correctly without any flaws. Removing it – If you change your mind in the future, removing wallpaper can be a tedious and frustrating endeavour. You need to have the right tools and a whole lot of patience to ensure that it’s fully removed and that the wall beneath isn’t damaged during the process. Paint Pros Preparation – It can be easy and can take little time and effort to prepare a wall for painting depending on your walls. With a quick application of primer or spackle, you can correct many imperfections in no time. Affordable – Paint is much more affordable than wallpaper, and you don’t have to spend money having someone apply it for you. Easy DIY– Although hiring a professional painter is always an option, it’s much easier to take on as a DIY project than with wallpaper. And even for hiring someone, the fee is generally lower than when applying wallpaper. Cons Not as Durable – Paint can mark and chip away much easier than wallpaper. So if you do have small children, the wear and tear factor could be an issue to consider. Less Selection – Although you can select a wide variety of paint colours, there still is a lack of selection when compared to the wallpaper designs. So you may be limited when you want to customize a wall. Can Emphasize Imperfections – Paint can easily show imperfections that are present on the wall. It’s less forgiving, especially when the sun shines on the surface. Wallpaper is usually better at concealing this. Whichever you decide to go with for your walls, these pros and cons of paint vs. wallpaper are worth considering before transforming the walls of your home.  Please don’t wait to get in touch for a free in-home consultation, you can call us at (613) 727-9427.

Stylish income suite design with neutral colours and modern furniture.

Thinking About an Income Suite?

Have you been thinking about an income suite in your home? More homeowners are realizing just how great it can be for generating additional income. Whether you have a basement, separate apartment space, or spare room, with a few renovations, you can create the perfect space that can provide you with extra income each month. Consider these tips to help create that income suite in your Ottawa home. Figure Out the Essentials It’s important to assess your living space and where might be the best place to create your extra suite. You need to figure out all of the essentials that will be necessary. To be up to code, a separate entrance will be required, as will a separate bathroom and kitchen. These are other requirements will determine the layout and renovation requirements for the space. Take some time to assess the space you have and what is most practical for both you and your prospective tenant. Learn About Laws and Regulations In addition to mapping out where and how you can create your income suite, it’s imperative to learn about the laws and regulations that are required when creating this kind of space. Factors such as permits, fire safety, and exits must be incorporated into your layout. Invest In Areas That Count When constructing certain areas, such as the bathroom or kitchen, always invest your money in areas that really count. The bathroom fixtures, toilet, and tub, along with the kitchen amenities and appliances, are what count and what prospective tenants will notice. Plus, it will benefit you and the value of your property in the future.Other design features like expensive carpeting or curtains don’t have to be extravagant. Focus on cost-effectiveness and durable. Stay Neutral With The Design When it comes to deciding on paint for the walls, and styles for the layout and furniture, try to stay neutral. Neutral colours on the walls are usually best since you can alter the décor without having to worry about colour. And when deciding on furniture and other décor items, again, keep it simple and choose items that will make the space look new and clean. Don’t Go Over Budget It can be easy to go way over budget once you get into the depths of renovating. So it’s best to have a budget to provide some limitation. It’s usually recommended not to spend over two years of rent on the renovation process. With a few renovations and the right space, you can create an area that can generate extra income for you and put that empty space to good use.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Revitalized fireplace focal point in a modern living room design.

Revitalize Your Fireplace

With a little effort, you can easily revitalize your fireplace and make it the focal point of your home once again. The fireplace is always a focal part of any room. If it begins to deteriorate over the years and look outdated, it can affect the entire design of the surrounding room. Small noticeable signs of wear and tear, such as broken and discoloured tiles, stone, or fixtures that are hanging off or stained by soot over the years can really look unattractive. Plus, if it’s an old fireplace that hasn’t been cleaned in a while, it could endanger your health. So why not make the effort to spruce up your interior by revitalizing your fireplace? It really can crank up the beauty and design of your entire living room. Use these tips to help get inspired. Reface with Stone If the current surround of the fireplace has old, worn brick, the best (and easiest) way to tackle that refacing project is by using stone. Not only does stone look great and provide that timeless character and warmth to your home, but it’s also very simple to install. You can use stone panels, which can be directly installed over the existing brick. Refacing with stone is straightforward and you can choose from a variety of styles and colours. Reface with Granite Granite looks elegant and luxurious. It’s a feature that designers and homeowners are in love with. And there’s no better place to show it off than your fireplacee. Granite and similar stone surfaces like marble compliment any fireplace and they are fire resistant so no need to worry about that heat affecting them. Add a Mantle If your fireplace doesn’t have a mantelpiece over it, this is a great way to enhance the look and really provide that statement piece. There are so many options available. You can go for big and bold, rustic and cottage-like, or sleek and contemporary. Mantels really allow you to get creative with the design. Reach for the Ceiling One popular look that many homeowners are in love with lately is the grandeur look of floor to ceiling panels. What better way to extenuate that focal feature? You can choose from large stones, small stones, and play with the elements of texture while really enhancing the ambience of the room. Add The TV If you’re worried about where you should place the TV, why not above the fireplace? You can incorporate it into the design so you don’t have to make any sacrifices. When your fireplace has reached a point where it no longer enhances a room, but rather takes away from the rest of your design and living space, revitalizing it is the best way to boost up your entire décor. So make it a project in the New Year to make your design pop with a new and improved fireplace. When you’re planning a home renovation in Ottawa, RenosGroup.ca can be there every step of the way from those first design ideas until the final step of construction. Get your FREE estimate now!  Or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Small ensuite bathroom design with glass walk-in shower, floating sink, and tiled walls

Make Your Small Ensuite Beautiful

Who says that size has to limit your design? If you have a small ensuite bathroom, it can look every bit as glamorous as your main bathroom. All it takes is the right elements to optimize the space that you do have and incorporate elements that can provide the illusion of more space. Follow these design tips to help make your small ensuite beautiful. All Glass Walk-in Shower If there’s a shower in your tiny ensuite, it can either make or break the look of your bathroom. The enclosure can really box in the area and make it appear even smaller than it really is. That’s why more modern designs are opening up that enclosure by using glass. This allows more light to filter within the ensuite and doesn’t take away from the size of the space. Built-in Countertop Having adequate space for a counter is one of the main problems when facing the design of a smaller bathroom. But by incorporating a built-in shelf within the main wall where the sink will be placed, it can provide that necessary component without having a counter that protrudes and takes up much room. Floating Sink Fixture Thanks to floating designs, even the tiniest bathroom can still be practical and look great. You don’t have to take up any unnecessary floor space with the sink. Plus, you can achieve that contemporary “bling” style with chrome piping and dazzling faucets. Customized Floating Cupboards Using the space above the toilet is always best for placing either a shelf or floating cupboard. And with the customized designs that are available today, you can store away all of your toiletries without having them on display for the world to see. Chic Tiling and Flooring The size of a space definitely shouldn’t hold you back from adding that design flair that you want. There are a wide variety of tiles and added finishes that you can install within your ensuite to bring out your flare and style. So get creative when selecting your tiling and flooring. Big Mirrors Mirrors are always a great option to utilize in smaller spaces for allowing light to reflect and give the illusion of greater space. Don’t feel limited by the small size of your ensuite. With the selection and designs that are available today, you can find just about anything you’re looking for to fully optimize your space without sacrificing your desire for a striking design. Get in touch, with the Ottawa bathroom contractors at RenosGroup.ca to book a consultation or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to discuss design ideas.

Wheelchair accessible home renovation: wider doorways and handrails for easy access.

Make Your House Wheelchair Accessible

When it comes to certain home designs, sometimes there simply isn’t enough room to provide accessibility or convenience for wheelchairs. Life can become extremely frustrating when you feel limited even within the comfort of your own home. But with a few renovations, you can provide the necessary space and layout to access every area of the home with ease.  Here are just a few sample ways in which we can help make your house wheelchair accessible. Improving Accessibility Wider Doorways Doorways can be altered and widened in order to provide easy access to each and every room of the home without the challenge or struggle of maneuvering the wheelchair through them. Lowered Countertops, Tables & Bathroom Fixtures Being unable to reach countertops, sinks and tabletops is another common challenge that creates limitations for those in wheelchairs. With a few alterations, we can lower those surfaces and provide you or a loved one with the suitable height that removes those barriers and provides access. Handrails for Bathroom and Seat for Shower Don’t risk a slip and fall. Handrails can easily be installed near the toilet or inside the shower stall and tub. In addition, you have the option of having a seat installed inside of the bathtub or shower stall to help make it more comfortable by providing you with a seat as you cleanse. Non-Slip Floors and Coverings No matter what type of flooring you have, it can either be damaged from constant wear and tear from a wheelchair or even provide a hazardous surface on some uncarpeted surfaces. Non-slip floorings and coverings can prevent those problems by protecting your floors and minimizing any hazardous, slippery surfaces. Safety, Space, and Accessibility No one should feel limited within their own home. Making your house wheelchair accessible can be achieved in a variety of ways. Whether it’s opening up the doorways, installing handrails in the bathroom, or lowering counters and table tops to provide easy access, any renovations that can make life at home feel comfortable and easy is always well worth it. No matter what your needs may be, we can provide you with the information and expertise that are necessary for improving wheelchair accessibility. We’re here to provide you with the renovations that can help make life at home what it should be – without limitations so you can feel comfortable, confident and gain back your independence. Here at RenosGroup.ca, we specialize in mobility renovations, barrier-free renovations, and accessibility renovations. Call us at (613)727-9427 or contact us to book a free consultation to learn more!

Accessible basement games room with pool table, comfortable seating, and entertainment system.

Adding a Basement Games Room

The wintertime is perfect for spending quality time inside together with the people you love the most. But after a few months of feeling cooped up at home, all that time spent indoors can begin to wear on you and family, leaving you feeling restless and bored. Adding a basement games room can offer the perfect kind of entertainment that you and the family can embrace all year long – especially during those cold spells that keep you cooped up at home. So why not embrace that quality time at home together with a games room that the whole family can have some fun with? Here’s how to plan it out and get started! Consider Where it will be Located Whether it’s your basement or a spare den off of the main floor, wherever you are considering housing your games room, give it some careful thought. Location is important. When those air hockey pucks go flying, you don’t want them to be anywhere near your fragile furniture. A games room is all about having a room to escape, get a little crazy, while still being able to keep your home safe and well intact. Put some careful thought on where yours should be located. Make it Comfy and Inviting Having a games room doesn’t just mean throwing a few games in a room for the kids. This can be your space, too. So consider adding those elements of comfort and luxury that you will enjoy. Maybe it’s big, comfy chairs, or a cute little bar. Whatever it is, add some elements that will make it a warm and inviting space that you will actually want to use. Consider Games to Add Of course, your games room should be tailored with games that you and the family will love. So take the time to think about what type of games you want. Maybe it’s pinball machines and air hockey, or foosball and a beautiful pool table as the main feature. Or you could add an entertainment system with the latest and greatest 3D consoles. The options are endless, so let your imagination run wild! Having a games room is all about providing a space where you can have some fun and entertainment at home while spending quality time together. Whether it’s throwing down a game of foosball or setting up a snooker tournament with your friends, an entertainment space that you can call your own is the perfect addition to any home, especially during those long winter months when you’re cooped up inside! Have you got a basement renovation on the mind?  For more info on adding a basement games room, give RenosGroup.ca a call at (613)727-9427 to book your free in-home consultation and discover what opportunities await.

Hands holding hardwood flooring planks for home renovation project

Choosing the Right Hardwood Flooring

There’s something about hardwood flooring that really gives a home that timeless character. And best of all, it can provide that cohesive element that can go with any type of design. But of course, with the variety of selections available, it can be confusing to figure out which style is best suited for your home. Rustic Maple? Oak? Walnut, Birch?  So before you begin shopping for your flooring, here are some factors to consider that can help you in choosing the right hardwood flooring that will keep up with your lifestyle and home. Lifestyle Before you get your heart set on any particular style of flooring, it’s important to consider a style and colour that will keep up with your lifestyle first. If you have kids or pets, you must take that into consideration so that you won’t end up with a style or stain that will mark up as easily. When it comes to hectic lifestyles, with many footprints that may be coming and going, hardwoods such as hickory and walnut are most resilient to wear and tear. Budget The next important factor to take note of before heading out to shop is your budget. Different types of hardwood can vary with price range. Solid hardwoods such as oak, or exotic hardwoods such as bamboo can consume your budget way beyond your expectations. Always be realistic with what you can afford. There are a variety of budget-friendly options that can deliver that timeless hardwood look, that have been engineered with blends to provide you with both affordability and aesthetics. Maintenance No one wants to have to vacuum or mop the floor several times a day just to maintain it. Consider the shade of flooring that will be most convenient. If you do have a hectic household, lighter flooring can be much easier for hiding dust and dirt so that you don’t have to bring out the mop so often. Darker shades tend to place any dust on display. But maintenance is important in getting the most longevity out of your flooring, so always ensure you know what the most recommended method is for cleaning it. Each type can differ depending on the variations. When it comes to selecting hardwood flooring that’s the right choice for your home, these are the most important factors to consider first. Once you determine how and what will fit in with your lifestyle the most, you can easily narrow down your options and make that selection process a whole lot easier when you head out to shop. When planning a home renovation, flooring is just one of the many design choices you need to think about. Want a little expert help? Contact us or give RenosGroup.ca a call at (613)727-9427 – we do it all to bring timeless designs to life.