Hottest Basement Trends

August 7, 2017 No Comments

Basement renos and remodelling have grown in popularity over the past few years as homeowners become more inclined to make use of that entire square footage. Whether it’s an entertainment hub for the family, a place for the kids to hang out, or your own special spot to have the friends over for cocktails, here are some of 2017’s hottest basement renovation trends that are leading the way this year. Open Concept Think the open concept has passed? Think again! When it comes to basement floor plans, the open concept is a keeper. Tearing down those dividing walls and taking advantage of the expansive space is not only beneficial from a design standpoint, but also for promoting air flow and allowing as much natural light to filter in from the windows. An Integral Part of the Home In the past, the basement was often a forgotten space. It was commonly used for storage, setting up an extra spot for extended family to stay during the holidays, or an unfinished den where your teenage kids would retreat to with their friends in tow. Well, not anymore. Now, we’re seeing an increasing trend where homeowners are honing in on that once forgotten space. It’s now being transformed into an integral part of the home and an extension of the upstairs living space. So naturally, you will find just as much attention to detail, design, and décor throughout the basement layout as you would in the main living room. Home Theatre & Media Room Some homeowners are even taking full advantage of the basement space by cranking up the luxury factor and adding in elements they can really indulge in like an enclosed home theatre and a media room. This is where the serious media enthusiast can get pampered. The Basement Bar & Sports Center Imagine having your own personal sports bar, right in your own home! If you’re bored with the idea of creating another bedroom or zone for the kids, why not make it your own space to kick back and relax with your friends while you take in all the sports action? You can create the ultimate sports lounge with a customized bar, paired with some exceptionally comfy seating, a widescreen to blow your mind, and even a few entertainment pieces like a pool table. If you can dream it, you can create it – and that goes for your basement. If you’re bored with the idea of wasting it on storage or another bedroom that you simply don’t need, claim that space and transform it into something you truly want. When you’re ready, contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427 RenosGroup.ca to help keep up to date with the hottest basement trends

4 Things to Consider When Doing a Bathroom Reno

March 21, 2017 No Comments

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

Open Concept or Closed?

March 6, 2017 No Comments

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

Thinking About an Income Suite?

January 30, 2017 No Comments

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

Revitalize Your Fireplace

January 23, 2017 No Comments

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

Remodelling for the Long Term

November 21, 2016 No Comments

If you’ve endured home renovations in the past, chances are that you know very well just how gruelling and expensive they can be. What starts as a fun weekend DIY projects turns into months of living in a dusty construction zone. When you start to consider doing some renos on your new home, you want to make sure that you hire a professional general contractor and ensure whatever you’re investing in will give you the most amount of ROI in the future. Before you starting remodelling your home, here are some key factors to consider to get the best return on your investment that will serve you well for the long term. Neutral or Calming Walls When you’re in the midst of deciding what colour to throw on your walls, a good idea is to avoid anything harsh or bold. If you want to get the best long-term benefit out of that paint, your best bet is to go for neutral or calming colours. That way, if you decide that you no longer like the designs and accenting features in your home, you won’t be limited by the colour on your walls, or have to repaint them. Adding Windows If you’re feeling unsure about knocking down a few walls in order to enhance the natural light in your home, take comfort in knowing that this renovation will serve you and the value of your home well in the future. Adding more natural light to a home is always a smart idea. If you were on the fence about this one – let there be light! Be Bold Through Accessories Of course, we still need to incorporate some fun, flair, and colour into the interior design and one of the best ways for doing this through accessories. Accessories such as your cushions, artwork, or even curtains, are all great ways to help add in some vibrant colour without requiring any significant expense or alteration down the road. So if you happen to grow tired of a particular colour that’s dotted throughout your home, you can easily switch it up. Make Functionality a Priority No matter what you do, always have functionality as a priority in your design. For example, when it comes to your kitchen, make sure that the location of your appliances, countertops and cupboards all make sense to the flow of the space. That way, even if you have to change any aesthetics in the future, the main bulk layout (and expense) won’t have to be altered. It’s always important to consider what makes the most sense for the long-term when remodelling your home. So before you begin those blueprints, consider these tips to help you make the right decisions that will benefit you and your home the most in the future. Looking for home design ideas that will look just as good in a year or ten? RenosGroup.ca is Ottawa’s choice for expert kitchen, bathroom, and whole-home renovation projects with a focus on timeless finishes and design choices. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Designing a Playroom the Kids Will Love

November 14, 2016 No Comments

Let’s be honest, designing a play area for your child is almost as much of a thrill for you as it is for them. It’s just about the only household project that’s fun and exciting to create because you get to be a little wild and crazy with the design. You can splash on some bold colours or funky wallpaper on the walls that would never be “approved” anywhere else. And the best part of all is that you get to see the smile on your child’s face when all is said and done. As a parent, it truly is one of the best household projects to undertake. So when you begin to think about creating a special space for your kids, here are some important factors to consider when designing a playroom the kids will love. The Design and Layout Before you go crazy with the Disney characters or bright pink carpeting, take a moment to first consider how quickly your children will grow and inevitably change their tastes and preferences. So when it comes to the layout, you should always take this into careful consideration when choosing design features that are more permanent (or ones you at least don’t want to have to change often), such as carpeting or wallpaper. They may look great now, but give it a few years and you (and your child) might be regretting it. Type of Flooring As mentioned, flooring is one of those choices that must be given some serious thought before throwing down the first selection you like. Take the time to really consider safety, aesthetics and of course, whether it will make sense in the near future. Because after a few months when your child has grown, you want that flooring to still hold well to wear and tear, while not looking completely out-dated. Some great options for you to consider that can provide you with each of these elements include cork, laminate, hardwood, and soft yet durable carpeting. Optimal Storage Of course, every playroom needs to have an appropriate amount of storage to tidy away all of those toys and crafts. Incorporating this into the design is a must in order to keep it clean and tidy. Whether it’s some toy boxes, cubed shelves and drawers – be sure that there is always some area that can house all of those toys. When it comes down to designing a playroom that the kids will love, it’s all about creating a space that is safe, fun and functional. And by considering a few of these key design elements, you can make a space that will serve both you and your kids well into the future. Ready to start your basement renovation? Get in touch with RenosGroup.ca! Or give us a call at (613)727-9427

4 Common Reasons to Plan a Home Addition

November 7, 2016 No Comments

Planning a home addition to your house can be a significant project to undertake, but it can also be the best solution that can provide you with the room and comfort that you need so that you can avoid another big move. That’s one of the main reasons why more and more people are opting for home additions, too. If you’re considering adding space to your house but feel unsure whether it’s the right decision for you, here are four common reasons to plan a home addition Provides you with more space Of course, it goes without saying how a new addition will provide you with some much-needed space. But just think about how much it can benefit you both now and in the future. Whether you are (or will be) planning to have children down the road, this could be the perfect way of incorporating more room into your house now and avoiding a massive move in the future. Stay in the neighbourhood It’s easy to get attached to the neighbourhood that you’re living in. So rather than having to move, building more space into your current living space will allow you to stay put and enjoy the place that you’ve grown to love. Treat yourself to some personal space Sometimes, it’s okay to be a little selfish. And sometimes that means having a space to call our own. If your house doesn’t have enough room to provide you with a space to relax and enjoy, then maybe it’s time to think about yourself. Creating a new suite, or even a den – whatever you desire, can be incorporated with a new addition to your home. So you can stay put, avoid an aggravating move, and have a space to call your own. Increase the value of your home If you do happen to decide to move from your home in the future, you can bet that the new addition that you create will only add value to it. No matter what you decide to turn that space into, having that extra room with treat you well when it comes to your return on investment if you do decide to move in the future. So if you’re on the fence about committing to a new addition, take some time to really think about how it will benefit you in the long run. Aside from the obvious extra room, you can avoid a potential move in the future; you can create your own personal space, all the while adding more value to your home. Read more about our Ottawa home additions services or book a free in-home consultation! Or give us a call at (613)727-9427

What Renovation Projects Add Home Value?

October 31, 2016 No Comments

Performing renovations to your home not only improves the aesthetic appeal, but when done correctly, can also add value to your home. However, if your sole purpose for renovating is to increase that value with a high return on investment (ROI), there are certain projects that – despite all your efforts – won’t make the dollar sign increase to make it worth your while. If you’re trying to plan your next home reno, here are the best areas of focus if you want additional value that is worth your while. The Kitchen If you were questioning whether it’s worth it to rip out those dated cabinets and cupboards – it is! Just like we’ve always been told, the kitchen is one of the most important features of a home, especially when it comes to selling it. It’s the most utilized room, and therefore the most significant. For any areas that look decrepit, outdated, or just ugly, renovating and upgrading them will benefit your ROI in the future. If budget is tight, affordable but effective changes like replacing cabinet hardware and adding a modern backsplash are well worth it. If the budget is higher, a new countertop, new floors, and new sink will pay off. To save money, try to keep your existing cabinets if they’re in good shape, and avoid moving the plumbing (sink, dishwasher) if you can help it. The Flooring These days, flooring is a big deal, and new buyers aren’t exactly keen on purchasing a home when they know they’ll have to spend more time and money ripping up that floor. It’s worth your time and money to bite the bullet and install that beautiful hardwood flooring that buyers are looking for. Then, you can just tack on a little extra when it comes to your selling price – you can bet that people are willing to pay more for work that’s already been done. If your carpeting is in rough shape, consider peeling a corner discreetly to see if hardwood lays underneath. The Exterior If your exterior has little to no curb appeal, you can bet that it will impact any prospects for selling. Since your exterior is the first thing potential buyers will see, it’s one of the most important for giving them a great impression of the home. Whether it’s the dead lawn, cracked patio stones, or crumbling façade of the home – add it to your renovation list! The Basement Gone are the days when the state of the basement wasn’t really a significant factor in the success for selling purposes. But today, more and more homeowners take great value in having that extra space remodelled and finished, not only for the potential purpose of having an extra den or TV room, but for renting purposes as well. So if your basement is unfinished and could use some extra TLC, take the time to finish it. This goes doubly so if your basement is damp or mouldy. When it comes time to place your home up for sale, you want to make sure that the effort you put into your renovations will benefit your return on investment. So focus on these main areas and you’ll be set to bump up that value to your home, guaranteed. What renovations will pay off for you? Schedule a free in-home consultation with RenosGroup.ca. Our Ottawa general contractor will evaluate your home and recommend the best areas for improvement. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

The Pros and Cons of Exposed Brick

October 24, 2016 No Comments

For many designers and homeowners, one of the most popular trends in design right now is exposed brick walls. It brings just enough mixture of warmth, rustic, and industrial edge, all-in-one. But sometimes, what’s good for the design isn’t always good for the homeowners. So before you start ripping down those walls, consider these pros and cons first. Pros of Exposed Brick Desirable Design – Like we said, there’s simply no denying how much people are loving the exposed brick style. It adds versatility to a space, contemporary edge, all the while adding that touch of warmth to just about any room. A Feature Wall – A wall with exposed brick is also a great way to break up a room by having it as a feature wall. Maybe it’s above your fireplace, or maybe it’s a partition between two rooms – wherever it is, exposed brick is a great way to break up a room and create that perfect feature space. Uncovering Historical Roots – Despite the popularity of trendy, modern interiors, many homeowners prefer to add in that touch of historic, vintage character throughout their home. And there’s no better way than by exposing that original brick, flaws and all. Cons of Exposed Brick Modern Interiors – When it comes to interior brick walls, it doesn’t always match well with every style. That especially goes for extremely modern interiors. So consider your style and what’s present throughout your home, and assess whether it will add or subtract to your space. Crumbling Brick – Once you’ve ripped into the plaster and exposed the brick beneath, you could be left with crumbling bricks and mortar that may need some serious TLC before showing them off to the family. So having a test area for you to get a peek before going all in is always a good idea. Allergies, Noise, and Drafts – Keep in mind that when you remove that insulation and plaster atop the brick wall, you’re also removing that extra buffer for noise, drafts and even allergies. The porous nature of bricks means they are more prone to collecting dust. They also allow drafts to permeate more easily without that extra layer of insulation, especially in an older home. So what may be great for your design, may not be so great for your allergies and even your heating bill. Before you start knocking down that drywall, it’s important to consider each of these factors first so that you aren’t left with a beautifully exposed brick wall and a whole lot of regret. The design and renovation experts at RenosGroup.ca can help you weigh the pros and cons of exposed bricks and other design considerations, so you get the space that looks and feels right for you. Get your free estimate today! Or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Remodelling for Empty Nesters

October 10, 2016 No Comments

You’ve finally reached that point in life where the kids have flown from the nest and you’re suddenly left with a big old empty home with an abundance of space you forgot you had. So now what? Start thinking about what you want! If you’re in search of some ideas to inspire you, here are some popular ideas when it comes to remodelling for empty nesters. Woman Cave, Man Cave Who says that women can’t have their own dedicated rooms just like the man caves? Whether it’s one or both, why not create a room that’s dedicated to you? It could be a meditation room where you can store all of your favourite cushions, candles, and incense, or an arts and crafts room for when you’re in the mood to paint. Whatever your hobby and interests may be, having a room that’s dedicated for this purpose provides you with the perfect place to enjoy doing what you love. Library Who doesn’t dream of converting a room into their very own personal library? Just imagine your favourite books lining the walls from floor to ceiling, with a sliding ladder and two comfy chairs to fully allow your imagination to wonder. Home Gym You know those long and cold winter months that force you to hibernate and reject most forms of physical exercise? Well forget about making that long trek to the gym. Create you own personal gym in the comfort of home. You can easily hop online to your local buy and sell website to find a few great deals on equipment. You’ll have no more excuses for avoiding those workouts! Wine Room If you’re a wine lover and happen to have a spare room in the basement courtesy of your adult child’s departure, it just makes sense to create a room full of wine, right? There’s no justification required! Who doesn’t dream of this? With that cool, dark room, you can easily line those walls with wine racks to show off your new collection to your friends each and every time they visit. Home Office Distractions are one of the biggest hindrances for being productive and getting work done. That’s why home offices are one of the most popular when it comes to remodelling for empty nesters. So if you’ve got work to do, with no space to do it, a home office could be a great addition to your home. Once that initial shock has worn off from having a plethora of space and time on your hands, it’s time to start thinking selfishly, and these ideas are perfect for getting you started. Contact RenosGroup.ca to start planning your home renovation project. Get your free estimate today! Or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Designing a Cool Bedroom for Your Teen

September 26, 2016 No Comments

As a parent you likely spent a lot of time designing your child’s bedroom, making it the perfect spot for them to play and enjoy themselves in their own space. But the years fly by and suddenly your adorable little toddler is now a full-blown teenager! There is no way to properly prepare yourself for this, but you can try to prepare their room to accommodate their new stages of life. The pastel-coloured walls and owl decor is not likely to excite a teenager. Talk to your teen and discover what they want to do with their room. If you give your teenager some creative design over their room reno, they may be more inclined to keep it neat and tidy! Here are some tips on designing a cool bedroom for your teen. Lighting Instead of the overhead lighting with a baby animal lamp, perhaps your teen would appreciate some track lighting with a dimmer switch. Teenagers have different requirements for their bedrooms than young children do. They will be reading, playing video games, staying up late with friends and maybe even doing some homework in their rooms. Having different lighting options that can adapt to their current needs is a great place to start a bedroom reno. Colour The colour scheme for any room is a personal choice. As the parents you likely chose the colours for your son’s or daughter’s room when they were young, but now they should have some creative input even if it doesn’t match up with the style you have in your mind. If painting your kids walls bright blue and bright orange will make them happy, then by all means go for it. It’s only paint after all, it’s not permanent. Soundproofing Teenagers are loud. Perhaps you have other kids in the house that aren’t in their teenage years yet, or perhaps you are just tired of hearing their music and conversations at 3am. Whatever the reason, there are different methods of soundproofing that can solve some serious parent/teenager arguments before they begin, if done right by a contractor. Storage Suddenly the stuffed animal holder hanging from the ceiling is not a sufficient means for storage. Teenagers require space for their school work, clothes, makeup, sports equipment, and general “stuff” that comes with the job description. Putting in some custom storage, and having them help with the designs, is a great way to personalize a room while encouraging cleanliness. If they have somewhere to put something then it is less likely to end up on the floor! Get in touch with RenosGroup.ca book a free in-home consultation for all your home renovation needs! Or give us a call at (613)727-9427

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