2011 BUILDING AND REMODELING TRENDS (PART ONE)

2011 BUILDING AND REMODELING TRENDS (PART ONE)

Happy New Year!  Last year I wrote an article on the top trends for 2010 and it received a positive response so I’m excited to bring you the top trends for home building and remodeling for 2011.  I’ll be dividing it into two articles so part two will follow shortly.  Since more and more people are choosing to stay in their homes longer, it has caused home remodeling to become the number one trend for 2011 with kitchen and bathroom remodels at the top of the list.  New custom home builds are beginning to peak again, but for 2011 the trend is for smaller, more practical and green homes.  Whether you’ll be building a custom home from scratch or remodeling an existing home keep these new ideas in mind for your 2011 projects: 

 

Smaller Homes:

In 2010 it was rumored that the shift would be to build custom homes on a smaller scale.  For 2011 it is happening, with the square footage shrinking down about 10 – 15%.  The trend has shifted to an awareness level of being value conscious and living realistically.  Even though smaller square footage is being requested, quality materials and finishes are in no way being compromised.  

The footprint is able to shrink down because rooms are requested to be more multi-purpose and multi-functional.  Organized space with integrated storage solutions will create a home to feel more spacious and uncluttered. 

The craving is for warm and clean–line design with a fusion of contemporary and traditional styles. 

The Design

Since the trend is moving towards smaller homes, the floor plan will allow for an open layout to incorporate multi-functional rooms.   Today’s family wants an open and adaptable floor plan that’s comfortable and versatile.  This type of plan allows a room to multifunction, particularly in kitchens / family rooms where cooking, dining, gathering and entertaining can take place. 

 Even though the square footage is shrinking people don’t want to feel closed in.  High ceilings, wider doorways and halls, master bedroom suites and open gathering spaces are still pleasing and make a smaller home feel more open and spacious. 

For existing homes, removing interior walls will create an open and flexible floor plan and improve the flow; therefore, creating versatility for families who love to gather and entertain.  The open floor plan, particularly kitchen and family room, appeals to an enormous segment of the population.  These types of renovations are practical and wise for re-sale.

The Home Office:

Home –based businesses are still growing and with today’s technology, it makes working from home very feasible.  Home offices are in such demand for both those who own home-based businesses as well as those who don’t.  The home office serves as a room to have a working space where the computer and other equipment is kept.      

In remodel projects a spare bedroom, garage bay or a portion of the family room will be renovated to create the ideal space for the office location.   If there isn’t any additional space then an addition is requested to accommodate a home office.  Either way, the trend is to have a room or area that is private, quiet and out of the traffic pattern. 

Green and Efficient:

The present outlook is still green with energy efficiency being top of the list.  You can begin with energy efficient windows, solar panels, tankless water heaters, LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, low VOC paints and stains or take all measures necessary to completely reduce your carbon footprint. 

The changing homeowner is looking for easy maintenance, high quality materials and integral smart systems that can easily transition their home to be greener, healthier and smarter. 

The tax credits have been extended for another year so it only makes sense to take advantage of the savings and update your home using these durable and sustainable materials.

Outdoor Living Spaces:

With the trend of smaller homes comes the idea of larger outdoor living spaces.  Expanding the interior living space to the outdoors is being highly requested for home remodels in 2011.  These outdoor living spaces can be simple or elaborate and should fuse properly with the homes architecture.  Some designs are multi-leveled and contain different seating areas, fire pits, hot tubs and outdoor kitchens with the intention of creating a “resort style” atmosphere. 

The outdoor kitchen tops the list with requests for large BBQ areas with counters to cook and serve on.  Sinks, refrigerators and storage compartments complete the space. 

Whether you’re building a custom home or renovating an existing home keep abreast of these popular trends.  Having this information will help guide you when it comes to complete your wish list.  Our lives change and with that our needs change.  We want our home design to change with us as well.  Make smart decisions to keep your house current if you should ever decide to sell. 

Stay tuned for part 2 which will feature kitchen, bath, floors and more! 

We hope you found this information helpful. Please feel free to comment…we’d love to hear from you!

Contact Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors for a FREE consultation

Call or Click:  480.816.4233 or http://sandella.net/contactus/contactus.html

 

Article by Cheryl Sandella, ASID Interior Designer, Fountain Hills, Arizona

©2011 Cheryl Sandella.  Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors, LLC. 

 

 

About Cheryl:

Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer ASID Allied Member, works with her husband and partner of 30 years, Al Sandella, General Contractor. They own Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors in Fountain Hills Arizona and design, remodel and build homes in the valley. To read more about her go to www.sandella.net/aboutus/aboutus.html  

 

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR NEWSLETTER, BLOG OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer publishes a monthly eZine called “Bespoke Home”. If you want Tools, Tips and Guidance to design, remodel and custom home building, be sure to get your complimentary subscription at http://www.sandella.net 

Cheryl Sandella

 

Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors

PO Box 18132

Fountain Hills, AZ 85269

480.836.1543 – office

480.816.4233 – Cheryl’s personal line

http://www.sandella.net

Construction Quotes…Do You Know the Difference?

Construction Quotes…do you know the difference?

Since home improvement projects are high on the list these days and regardless how big or small your project is it’s important to get honest and accurate pricing from a reputable contractor.

It’s really beneficial for you to understand the different type of quotes and which ones will best suit your needs and project.  This process can be stressful, time consuming and confusing so read below for clarity. 

 

What’s the Difference?

An ESTIMATE is a ball-park figure, an approximation, a rough calculation based on a preliminary design or plan.  A price is devised based on the availability of information given at that time.  Usually estimated prices will change as the plan/design evolves and more permanent decisions are made.    

A PROPOSAL is written offer based on the work a contractor is going to perform which totals cost for materials, labor, equipment and time.  It will also include terms, conditions and payment schedule outlined for the work to be preformed.  It requires signatures from both parties. 

A BID is another written offer but based on specific information and descriptions.  It’s a takeoff of completed drawings or construction documents that detail the scope of the work and specifications. It states the money requirements and includes materials, labor, equipment and time.  In most situations once a contractor is awarded the bid it becomes part of the contract documents

A CONTRACT is a legal and binding agreement between the contractor and homeowner to do specific work.  It outlines the entire scope of the project including contingencies, stipulations and compensation.  It assures that both parties will hold up to their end of the deal.  A contract must be signed and dated by all parties.

A CHANGE ORDER is a “change of work”.  It is a written order signed by the contractor and homeowner to make a change that is not included in the original scope of work.  It authorizes the contractor to make the change for a specific amount of money and time. 

The final price you decide on must be as accurate as possible.  The most important thing you can do for yourself and your project is to hire a contractor that you feel comfortable with and has a quality reputation.  Don’t let the bottom number dictate who you choose because if you don’t go with a competent contractor you will end up paying more in the end.  Listen to your gut!

 

For a FREE consultation CALL 480.836.1543, EMAIL al@sandella.net  or CLICK:  http://sandella.net/contactus/contactus.html

 

Please feel free to leave a comment or ask a question regarding this post; we’d love to hear from you!

Article by Cheryl Sandella, ASID Interior Designer, Fountain Hills, Arizona

©2010 Cheryl Sandella.  Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors, LLC. 

About Cheryl:

Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer ASID Allied Member and CEO and Founder of Sandella Custom Home and Interiors.  She is a talented designer dedicated to providing homeowners with a high level of design standards and expertise, while providing guidance and support throughout the home renovation process.  Presenting every homeowner with a precise plan and customized design.

Cheryl is known for her keen eye and ability to pay close attention to design and details while never loosing site of the homeowner’s lifestyle, budget and dream.   She works closely with her husband and partner of over 30 years, Al Sandella, General Contractor and together they design, remodel and build homes in the valley.

To read more about her go to www.sandella.net/aboutus/aboutus.html   and sign up to receive the FREE Guide, “How to Create a Design Notebook” and to discover upcoming promotions, programs and services. 

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR NEWSLETTER, BLOG OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Cheryl Sandella is a sought out Interior Designer who specialized in design, remodel and custom home building.  Cheryl is the CEO and Founder of Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors.  She publishes a monthly eZine called “Bespoke Home”.  If you want Tools, Tips and Guidance to design, remodel and custom home building, be sure to get your complimentary subscription at http://www.sandella.net  

Cheryl Sandella

Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors

PO Box 18132

Fountain Hills, AZ 85269

480.836.1543 – office

480.816.4233 – Cheryl’s personal line

http://www.sandella.net

Good News!

Read this article …

Remodeling picking up as the economy improves http://tinyurl.com/2w6wcby
Call Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors for your next remodeling project!

480.836.1543

www.sandella.net

The ABC’s of Kitchen and Bath Terms by Cheryl Sandella

The ABC’s of Kitchen and Bath Terms

 Accent lighting
Lighting that emphasizes displayed items, such as artwork or china cupboards.

 Accessories
Additional cabinetry items such as overlays, moldings, etc to enhance the appearance and quality of a project. Also includes towel bars, soap dishes, hardware, etc.

 Banquette
A built-in table with chairs in an alcove or a built-in upholstered bench along a wall, often used in breakfast areas

 Barn door
Hardware that allows the door to slide along a wall. Useful when a pocket door is too costly or not possible.

 Blind base cabinet
A base cabinet usually incorporated into a design to turn a corner with an appliance or other cabinet perpendicular to it.

 Beakfront
A large cabinet or bookcase whose center section projects beyond the two end sections

 Chair rail
A trim piece that runs horizontally on a wall at the height of a chair back and is used to make the transition between a wainscot and upper wall. Originally used to prevent damage to a wall from the backs of chairs.

 Chromatherapy
Using color to affect mood and sense of well-being, using colored lights in a bathtub.

 Claw foot tub
A tub mounted off of the floor on four legs; the base of each leg is shaped like a claw foot.

 Clearance space
The space required for a safe and clear use of an appliance, cabinet doors and safe passage.

 Compartmentalized bathroom
A bathroom where individual activities, like toileting or showering, are separated by walls into individual compartments.

 Concealed hinge
A hinge that is attached to the door and the inside end panel or stile of a cabinet, making it not visible from the exterior of the cabinet

 Console sink
A sink basin supported by legs. The legs can be metal or wooden.

 Convection
The transmission of heat through a liquid or gas. The cooler feeling you experience in front of a fan in summer is due to convective air movement over your skin. It is also a form of cooking.

 Decorative overlay
Overlay – A piece of carved, scrolled wood which is usually fastened to the face of a panel or custom hood.

 Diagonal corner cabinet
A cabinet used to span across a corner; another term for this type of cabinet is wall angle.

 Downdraft ventilation system
A kitchen ventilation system that pulls air with the by-products of cooking down through a vent and exhausts it to the outside; typically the ventilation system is integrated with the cooktop or installed immediately adjacent to it

 Eco-friendly
Having little or no impact on the native ecosystem.

 End panels
Accessory cabinet part used to finish the end of a cabinet run or the side of an appliance or unfinished cabinet.

 Energy Star
The Energy Star program, managed by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy, helps consumers identify energy-efficient products for their homes.

 Exposed hinge
A hinge attached to the door and the front frame of the cabinet, making it visible from the exterior of the cabinet

Face framing
A method of installing joists or rafters, where they attach to the face of the beam rather than run over the top.

Fixture
Any fixed part of the structural design, such as tubs, bidets, toilets, and lavatories.

 Grab bars
Safety bars installed in bathtubs and showers to prevent falls. A device, usually installed on a wall, that provide support while rising from, sitting in, entering, or exiting a bathtub or shower.

 Green design
A design, also referred to as a sustainable design or eco-design, which conforms to environmentally sound principles of building, material, and energy use. A green building, for example, might make use of skylights, recycled building materials, and energy efficient appliances.

 Halogen
A variation of incandescent lighting whereby the filament is encased inside a capsule containing halogen gas, produced by iodine vapor.

 Hood insert
A liner for a custom made hood for housing the filter system, fan, and lights. Made from sheet metal or other non-combustible material.

 Hydrotherapy
Refers to a variety of bathing options that use hot water, water movement, and/or pressure to stimulate or relax the body.

 Incandescent
Lighting produced when an electrical current runs through a poor conductor, such as a tungsten carbide filament in an incandescent bulb.

 Island
An area of cabinets and countertops which can be accessed and walked around from all sides. Considered free standing.

 Knot
A portion of a branch or limb that extends into the trunk of a tree and appears as a darker spot on sawn lumber.

 Kosher
In Judaism, the term kosher can be applied to foods that meet a series of dietary laws. The ease of meeting some of these dietary laws, such as the separation of meats and dairy products, can be enhanced by the design of the kitchen

 Laminate
Any thin material such as wood or plastic glued to the exterior of a cabinet, countertop or other surface.

 Lazy Susan
A corner cabinet on which the shelves are mounted on a vertical axle such that items may be retrieved by pushing on the shelves to turn them may also be called a lazy Susan. This type is usually found in kitchens. Closed, this type of lazy Susan appears to be two normal cabinets at right angles to each other. When pushed on, the cabinet “doors” reveal the shelves, which are circular except for the ninety degree cutout where the doors are mounted.

 Mudsetting
A method of installing ceramic stone tiles by setting them into a mortar bed.

 Needs assessment
In the context of the design process, gathering information about the client and their needs, wants, and desires for the design project as well as the physical characteristics of the jobsite.

 NKBA™
National Kitchen & Bath Association

 Pedestal lavatory
A free-standing fixture with a wide top and narrow base that conceals the plumbing.

 Pendant
A lighting fixture hung from the ceiling containing one or more lamps.

 Peninsula
An area of cabinets or counter fastened on one side which can be accessed and walk up to on three sides.

 Pocket door
A door that slides horizontally on a track and is typically moved inside a wall for storage.

 Powder room
A small bathroom for guest near the public areas of the home. Consists of a sink and toilet.

 Primary clean-up/prep sink
The sink used most frequently. If only one sink is planned it will be used for both clean-up and food preparation. A kitchen with primary and auxiliary sinks may separate these tasks.

 Pull
Devices attached or built in that enable a person to open a drawer. Pulls are often referred to as stirrup grips and are in the shape of the letter “U.”

 R&R
Remove and Replace. A term describing simple remodeling project that involves removing and replacing cabinetry, fixtures and appliances without structural or mechanical changes.

 Roll-in shower
Shower without a threshold that is large enough for a wheelchair to enter.

Rough-in
Where the shower head or other plumbing fitting will be placed in the wall or floor.

Sauna
A Finnish steam bath. A room that uses dry heat and steam to cleanse and relax the user Steam is produced by pouring water over heated rocks

Sconce
A light fixture that is fixed to a wall.

Secondary center
A work area established for a specific task, such as baking or salad preparation. It may include an appliance or fixture, storage, and counter space, but is not calculated as part of the work triangle.

Shelf/drawer frontage
Calculation of cabinet size x number of shelves or drawers x cabinet depth in feet. Used to determine adequate storage in a kitchen.

Snack bar
An area of countertop space used for eating or snacking usually 36 or 42 inches off of the floor.

Soaking tub
Extra deep tub that allows the user to submerge to their neck.

Spa tub
A large tub holding warm water having whirlpool action and seating for multiple users, hot tub.

Task lighting
Added lighting for specific tasks, like grooming, dressing, reading, etc. Lighting focused on an work area.

Toe kick
An indented space in cabinetry near the floor to accommodate the feet while standing next to a cabinetry.

Traffic Patterns
The normal walkway or passage a person would go from one place to another.

Transom
A horizontal window set above a door or other windows.

Vanity
Bathroom cabinet with the lavatory on the type.

Veneer
A thin sheet of material bonded to one or more other materials. Plywood is one example of a veneer material.

Vessel lavatory
A lavatory bowl or basin that sits on top of the counter or ledge.

Vichy shower
A seven-headed rain bar with pressure spray treatment used to apply water and warmed essential oils to relax and stimulate the mind and body.

Vitreous china
A ceramic material fired at high temperatures to form a nonporous, glass-like material.

Wainscot
A material used to clad the lower portion of a wall.

Wainscoting
An application of wood paneling up to the middle or lower half of a wall

Water closet
A term for an indoor privy where water was used to wash down human waste.

Whirlpool
A bath with jets that move warm water into a swirling motion, jetted bathtub.

Work aisle
Space needed to work at the kitchen work centers.

Work center
Comprised of an appliance or sink, surrounding landing/work area, and storage.

Work Triangle
The distance between the three primary work centers (cooking surface, clean-up/prep primary sink, and refrigeration). Ideally between 12 and 26 feet in total length.

© 2010  SANDELLA CUSTOM HOMES AND INTERIORS, LLC.  ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Want to know how to create your own design notebook go to http://www.sandella.net – its free!

About Cheryl:

Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer ASID Allied Member, works with her husband and partner of 30 years, Al Sandella, General Contractor. They own Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors in Fountain Hills Arizona and design, remodel and build homes in the valley. To read more about her go to http://www.sandella.net/aboutus/aboutus.html

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR NEWSLETTER, BLOG OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer publishes a monthly eZine called “Bespoke Home”. If you want Tools, Tips and Guidance to design, remodel and build your custom home, be sure to get your complimentary subscription at http://www.sandella.net

Cheryl Sandella

Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors

PO Box 18132

Fountain Hills, AZ 85269

480.836.1543 – office

480.816.4233 – Cheryl’s personal line

http://www.sandella.net

Remodeling Straight Talk by Cheryl Sandella

Remodeling Straight Talk

According to a study at Harvard University, the number home improvement projects undertaken by American homeowners, “which include high-end kitchen and bath remodels,” is projected to grow by almost 40% in the 10 years between 2005 and 2015.  Some even predict higher numbers.

Estimated return of 92 percent of what you spend on a kitchen and 105 percent of what you spend on the master bath

 Tamara Newwell, CKD, CBD and vice chairman of an advisory council of designers for the National Kitchen & Bath Association advises homeowners not to expect low-cost, quick-fix renovations to pay off very well. A complete renovation is a better investment.  

 Kitchen remodels are viewed by women consumers as the premier design and remodel project.  Men give entertainment spaces, garages and the exterior a higher regard.

 Women take the vast responsibility of kitchen and bath decisions.  They give more input on style, color, materials and brands. 

 Sticking to a budget can sometimes be challenging so make sure you set a realistic budget.  Don’t cut corners – invest in quality because it will pay off in the long run for sure. 

 Remodeling is messy and there’s no getting around it.  Sometimes projects can take longer, and cost more, than planned.

 Do your homework and ask a lot of questions.  Be sure the people you hire are reputable and conscientious.  They will be worth their weight in gold

 It’s wise to hire a general contractor and/or an interior designer to manage your project so you don’t have to.  It will be the difference between having peace of mind verses giving some a piece of your mind. 

 Find the balance…be around enough to know what is going on but stay away enough to keep your sanity. 

 On tough and noisy days take a break, relax and close your eyes; try to visualize what the room will look like and see yourself enjoying it.  Leave the corkscrew out -it is sure to come in handy on days like theseJ 

 I’ve heard people compare remodeling to giving birth. The pain is only temporary and the end result has a way of making it so worthwhile. 

A few words of wisdom:

 Pain fades with time

 There are no problems – only opportunities

 Remodeling is creation, action and collaboration

 If you pinch a contractor too tight so they can’t make money, harbor resentment and cut corners then no one will win – you both lose.  Make it a win-win situation!

 If someone helps you acknowledge them because generous people are hard to come by

 Don’t forget to enjoy the experience…your making memories

 Remember everything comes to an end so don’t get stressed

© 2010 SANDELLA CUSTOM HOMES AND INTERIORS, LLC.  ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Want to create a design notebook?  Go to http://www.sandella.net – its free!

About Cheryl:

Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer ASID Allied Member, works with her husband and partner of 30 years, Al Sandella, General Contractor. They own Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors in Fountain Hills Arizona and design, remodel and build homes in the valley. To read more about her go to http://www.sandella.net/aboutus/aboutus.html

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR NEWSLETTER, BLOG OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer publishes a monthly eZine called “Bespoke Home”. If you want Tools, Tips and Guidance to design, remodel and build your custom home, be sure to get your complimentary subscription at http://www.sandella.net

Cheryl Sandella

Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors

PO Box 18132

Fountain Hills, AZ 85269

480.836.1543 – office

480.816.4233 – Cheryl’s personal line

http://www.sandella.net

Remodeling Advice by Sandella

REMOLDING ADVICE

 

 

Have realistic expectations.  Remodeling can be very messy; there is no getting around that.  Sometimes projects can take longer and cost more than expected or planned for.

 

Be sure to ask lots of questions and do your homework ahead of time to ensure that the people you hire are reputable and conscientious.  They will be worth their weight in gold.

 

It is best not to cut corners when it comes to how you trim out your house in regards to appliances, materials or fixtures.  When you invest in quality, it will pay off in the long run.

 

Be sure the company you hire as a “go to” person so you can ask him/her daily questions, such as:  What time will the workers will be arriving the next day. Don’t take it for granted that they will be back – ask. Also find out what time they will be starting and finishing.  Make sure you find out what work will be going on.  I always recommend getting an approximate schedule for the week in advance.  Knowing the answers can mean the difference between having peace of mind and giving someone a piece of your mind. 

 

Find the right balance…you’ll need to be around to do some supervision, but you’ll also need to stay away to keep your sanity.

 

Finally, make sure you do some fun or relaxing things for yourself so you can get through it in a positive way.  Keep this thought – Remodeling is like having a baby, the pain is difficult but only temporary and the final results have a way of making it all worthwhile. 

 

Remodeling will give you benefits if you decide to sell your home.  A good estimate is you’ll get a return of 92% or what you invested into a kitchen remodel and 105% of your investment back on a master bathroom remodel.

 

Be mindful – don’t expect low-cost, quick fix remedies to pay off very well.  A complete renovation using quality materials and experienced contractors will be much wiser and a better investment.

 

Good luck with your remodel.

 

© 2008 Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors LLC.  All rights reserved

 

 

Room Additions & Home Expansions

 

Whether you need to expand, remodel or build from scratch, Enhance Remodeling by Sandella, provides the architect, contractor and interior designer.  Enhance Remodeling accesses things like usage, pattern flow and privacy needs to design spaces that work for the whole family. We create environments that are more than just living spaces.  Let us create what you imagine. 

 

 

 

Need help with your project?  Start a Design Notebook.  Get the FREE how to guide at www.sandella.net and click on FREE STUFF!

 

About Cheryl: 

Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer ASID Allied Member, works with her husband and partner of 30 years, Al Sandella, General Contractor.  They own Sandella Custom Homes &Interiors, and Enhance Remodeling in Fountain Hills Arizona.   They design, build and remodel homes in the valley.  To read more about her go to www.sandella.net/aboutus/aboutus.html

   

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE?  You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it:  Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer publishes a monthly eZine called “Bespoke Home”.  If you want Tools, Tips and Guidance to design and build your custom home, be sure to get your complimentary subscription at http://sandella.net

Cheryl Sandella

Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors

Enhance Remodeling

PO Box 18132

Fountain Hills, AZ  85269

480.836.1543 – office

480.816.4233 – Cheryl’s personal line

bespokehome@ymail.com

www.sandella.net

www.enhanceremodeling.com