Remodel

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.

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 additionally 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 remodelling 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

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

Thinking about an income suite

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

Revitalize Your Fireplace.

Revitalize Your Fireplace

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 fireplace. 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

 

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.

Remodelling for the long term.

Remodelling for the Long Term

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.

Designing a Playroom the Kids Will Love

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

4 Common Reasons to Plan a Home Addition

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?

What Renovation Projects Add Home Value?

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

The Pros and Cons of Exposed Brick

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

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