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Hottest Basement Trends

Hottest Basement Trends

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

2017-Home-Trends-Wood-Elements-in-the-Bathroom

Home Trends: Wood Elements in the Bathroom

Whether it’s the floor, kitchen cabinets, mantelpiece, or even the bathroom – no matter the design space, nothing seems to captivate the warmth and texture quite as well as wood. Homeowners and interior designers in Ottawa continue to have an affinity towards this material, and with good reason. Even with our immaculate modern designs, we can’t resist the authenticity and natural, rustic connection that wood offers. And with the advancements in designs, mixing wood with moisture is no longer such a taboo concept. Here we delve into some of the ways in which wood elements in the bathroom are being incorporated in designs more and more and how you can too!

Wood Flooring

It’s no surprise that wood flooring is one of the most sought-after design elements throughout a home. But the bathroom was commonly an area where that was left out of the equation in fear of it buckling and softening under all of that heat, moisture, and foot traffic. But thanks to advancements, you don’t have to worry any longer. There are misconceptions about wood in the presence of humidity –but it’s actually quite resilient. And with the application of some oil-based polyurethane to protect it, you can enjoy wood flooring just about anywhere.

Wooden Fixtures

Beyond the flooring, wooden fixtures such as sinks and tubs might sound a little more radical. However, wood has actually been used for centuries by the Japanese in these ways. It’s just a matter of using the correct type of wood. Cedar and teak for example, are strong hardwoods that hold well against water. And these wooden sink and tub designs are slowly starting to catch on here in Canada to add that beautiful rustic natural element to the bathroom. And with some regular applications of oil as recommended by your manufacturer, you can enjoy these stunning wooden features like never before.

Wooden Countertops

Wooden countertops paired with large washbasins and metal decor elements create a stunning combination. And with the addition of waterproof oils, this dynamic design is becoming a favourite for homeowners.

Wood is an exceptionally durable material, even on its own. It’s been an element that has been used alongside water for centuries. And now, as we take note from other cultures and shed the limitations we thought wood imposed, we can now create the stunning, dynamic bathroom designs that we’ve always wanted.

At RenosGroup.ca, we bring your bathroom renovation vision to life.  To learn more about wood elements in the bathroom don’t hesitate to Get a free estimate today!  Or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Benefits and Drawbacks of Granite

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Granite

When remodelling your kitchen, it can be easy to select a product purely based on aesthetics. But beyond the appeal, it’s important when choosing a material that you’re also considering the durability, longevity, and maintenance. Granite is one of the most popular materials used today for countertops, but it is one of the more expensive investments per square foot. It’s important to weigh both the pros and cons of before committing. Here are some of the main benefits and drawbacks of granite, to assist you with your final decision.

Benefits:


Extremely durable


Since this material is natural rock, it is extremely durable. With proper maintenance and care, it can be the only countertop you ever need. However, just like with stone it can be prone to chip. You must be careful when placing solid objects on it, especially along more vulnerable edges.

Available in a variety of finishes


Granite finishes can also be customized greatly to suit your style and design. You can choose from different shades and colours, such as greens, corals, beiges, blacks, and whites. And whether glossy or matte, you can choose a preferable look.

No two pieces are the same


Since granite is natural stone, you can enjoy the fact that your countertop will always be unique since no two pieces are really ever the same. Even when it comes to the type of finish, each may look slightly different than the next, giving your kitchen a truly customized and personal touch.

Drawbacks:


Imperfect surface


Since granite is literally a slab of stone taken from the earth, it can have an uneven and imperfect surface. If you’re in search of that glistening, slick, even surface, this material may be a bit too earthy and raw for your taste. Additionally, since this is a natural, rustic material, no two pieces will ever look the same. A sample of what you see in a store, may not be exactly what you end up with.

Porous surface


Since granite stone has a porous surface, it will also need to be resealed each year for as long as you expect to maintain the countertop. This is especially important since it will be around a lot of moisture and potential stains.

Extremely heavy


Granite is also an extremely heavy material. It is not a material that’s ever recommended to be included as a DIY project when remodelling your kitchen. You should always hire a professional installer when dealing with this material.

Obvious seams


Another drawback to this product is that seals cannot be hidden or fully concealed. If you desire a seamless surface, granite might not be the best choice to consider.

If you’re struggling with the decision on whether to go with a granite countertop, be sure to take all of the factors into account. Whether you choose granite or another beautiful material like quartz or marble, you can feel confident in your selection.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Things to Consider When Doing a Bathroom Reno

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.

Bathroom Renovation Ottawa - Pellan Cres

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

Benefits of Installing a Kitchen Backsplash

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

Open Concept or Closed

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 or Closed

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.

Kitchen Renovation Ottawa - Badger Cres | Renos Group

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

Reasons to Finish Your Unfinished Basement

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!

Basement Renovation Ottawa - Monaco Place

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

Pros and Cons of Paint vs. Wallpaper

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? 

The Pros and Cons of Paint vs. Wallpaper

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.

The Pros and Cons of Paint vs. Wallpaper

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.

Adding a Basement Games Room

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. A 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.

choosing hardwood flooring

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.

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251 Laurier Ave W, #900
Ottawa, ON K1P 5J6
Phone: (613) 727-9427
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