10 of the Best DIY Projects for under $50

10 Best DIY projects for under $50 There is nothing better than great DIY projects for the house. Here are a few of the best DIY projects for under $50.

1. DIY Macramé Curtain.  This easy curtain can be made with under $50 material and only a few hours’ time. This is perfect for sprucing up a closet that may be lacking a door, or a groovy entry way into a room.  Check out A Beautiful Mess for full instructions and tips on this Bohemian DIY Home décor.

http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2014/02/make-your-own-macrame-curtain.html

2. Chevron Lamp Makeover. Got an ugly lamp shade? There is nothing a little tape and paint can’t fix. Take any old lamp shade and add paint for a new updated look. Try using tape as a guide for chevron stripes or design. Coco 29 did a great yellow chevron rendition.

http://www.coco29.com/diy-home-decor-ideas-on-a-budget/

3. DIY Magnetic Knife Board. This space saver is great for those small kitchens that do not have ample counter space. By creating your very own magnetic knife board you get those knifes off the counter, and out of the reach of little hands. DIY Magnetic Knife Boards can be mounted anywhere, high or low, and can be tailored to any décor style.

http://hobbylesson.com/diy-magnetic-board-for-knife-with-tutorial/

4. DIY Closet Kit. I don’t know many people whom were born with the ability to keep their closet organized, but this DIY Closet Kit is perfect at helping those, and especially if you have kids. Find socks and underwear in little time, and possible even get rid of your old dresser that is taking up space. I personally love this idea and want one in the kids’ bedroom. Premade closet kits can cost you anywhere from $200+ dollars, make this one for $50.

http://www.hometalk.com/585492/diy-closet-kit-for-under-50

5. Concrete DIY Fire Pit. Perfect for those nights where a bon fire just is the right thing to do. The DIY Concrete Fire Pit can be made in only a few hours, and is ready to use when you are. Its sleek look will have every one asking where they can purchase one for themselves.

http://www.manmadediy.com/users/chris/posts/2618-how-to-make-a-diy-modern-concrete-fire-pit-from-scratch

6. Farmhouse Coffee Table DIY. Caution this table requires some pretty awesome power tools! It’s cool what a few scrap pieces of wood and some wheels can do for your living room. You can even skip the wheels if you have young kids that would turn this table into a sled, with or without the wheels it would make a great DIY Coffee Table.

http://www.shanty-2-chic.com/2013/03/coffee-table-diy.html

7. Staircase DIY Update. Get rid of the old carpeted staircase and in with the new sleek look. Demo, stain and paint, and you have a whole new house. Ok, you don’t have a whole new house, but you created a grand staircase with little effort.

http://inmyownstyle.com/2011/01/my-foyer-staircase-reveal.html

8. DIY Industrial Tables. Sometimes time is money. In this case this day project may not be for you, but it looks so cool. You can make end tables, or even a coffee table to match. This is for those whom love exposed brick and HVAC ducts, the Industrial lovers table this is.

http://www.lowes.com/creative-ideas/other-areas/industrial-side-tables/project?cm_mmc=sm_pi-_-lci-_-project-_-industrialsidetables

9. DIY Wine Rack. This is super chic and adds a spark to any décor. The best part of this is DIY Wine Rack project is the fact that it looks expensive. Don’t purchase one from the store, build your own and have something to be proud of in your kitchen.

http://www.lowes.com/creative-ideas/kitchen-and-dining/fine-lines-wine-rack/project?cm_mmc=sm_pi-_-lci-_-project-_-finelineswinerack

10. Kids Room DIY Crate Seats. You can find these plastic baskets in most stores, and kids usually use them to stand on anyways. Why not turn them into cute seats for the kids room, heck possibly even the living room. Crates, foam, fabric and wood – there you have DIY Crate Seats.

http://tupelohoneycaro.blogspot.com/2011/08/crate-seats-my-way.html

We love to see your completed DIY remodel projects. Comment with your best DIY to date and pictures.

Bathroom Remodel: The Shower and Tub Debate

Bathroom Remodel: The Shower and Tub Debate When it comes to a bathroom remodel, many home owners often find they are debating whether or not to add in a shower and tub combo, a simple shower or just a tub. This is a debate that can cause problems in many homes due to differing opinions on the matter. Often times, it is best to leave the decision making up to the experts so that the work is completed and hopefully the home owners enjoy the new space, no matter which was added! Read on to see the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best decision for your bathroom remodel.

Shower/Tub Debate

Depending on your bathroom space, you probably already have a shower/tub combo. For most homes, this is the standard installation provided. For newer homes, some contractors opt to provide a shower only or a bathtub with no shower combo. This is a personal preference for the home owner and is something to consider. For resale value, it is better to have a shower/tub combo as that is what home owners are looking for in general.

However, if you are remodeling your master bathroom, you do have the option to go with a separate shower and no tub. Perhaps you do not take baths or could use the main bathroom as an area for enjoying a soak every now and then. It is also important to consider the size of the space. In larger bathrooms, a standalone shower can be added along with a bathtub, just separately. If the bathroom is small, then a shower may be your only option.

Narrowing Down Your Choices

When remodeling your bathroom, you will need to narrow down your choices by asking yourself a few questions. Think about how your bathroom is to begin with. Do you only have a shower? Could you make room for a tub? Do you like to take baths more than showers or do you want the option to do both? Consult with a Los Angeles remodeling contractor to see what you can do with the space you have. There may be enough room to add in a standalone shower with tile work and a tub in a separate area or you may just need to have a small standing shower and toilet area.

A contractor will be able to look at the space and configure the room so that it will work seamlessly. Ideas that you may have never thought of easily come to mind with a contractor. Take a look at plans provided to see how you can change up your bathroom and once work begins, you will soon have a brand new space to enjoy and relax in for years to come.

When considering a major remodel, always consult with a contractor. You want to work with individuals who have experience in bathroom remodels. Never try to tackle a project on your own or at least without consulting a professional first. You can easily get in over your head and end up spending more money, time and have a headache from the effort needed. Start the project off right by consulting with a professional to have a space you can enjoy and be proud of.

What You Need to Know About Starting a Bathroom Remodel

What You Need to Know About Starting a Bathroom Remodel

Remodeling your bathroom can be an exciting and stressful experience like any remodel. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could approach your project with the knowledge of the most experienced remodeling company?

Here you can get that confidence to hire great home improvement professionals, and avoid suffering a bad remodel job. Those horror stories about contractors leaving a house torn open and taking the homeowner's money...they don't have to be your story.

4 Questions you need to have answered before you jump into a remodel contract:

1. Who is the company, where is their location and what is their direct phone number? This information allows you to get a real insider look the professional once you’re off the phone. This can be done by viewing their profile on reviews pages and by searching for information on other sites like BBB and their social sites.
2. Are you and your subcontractors licensed, bonded and insured? The answer to this question should be yes! You need to know that you are in good hands, and that this isn’t a scam company that will leave you helpless after they get your money.
3. When would you be able to start a project and finish it? This is good information to see how available they are and as to how long you can expect them to have your home in remodel mode.
4. Would you be able to provide references for previous clients? If a professional cannot provide any references for clients, it is a bad sign. You want to see and hear from past clients that love their remodel and can give an honest review of the entire process working with the contractor – from consult, to design, to build. Also be sure to check their design pictured to be sure that your style could be recreated by the company. If they are not used to designing a style that matters to you, you may need to rethink whom to go with.

Now that you have the basics covered and know about your contractor, you need to know yourself.

Have you saved up money for this bathroom remodel, or are you going to need financing assistance?

Unless you are fortunate enough to be able to pay for the project out of pocket, you will now need to look into financing option. Luckily for you, Spazio LA works with the HERO program to make eco-friendly remodels affordable for everyone. Contact us to hear more about the program and other financing options!

9 Tips to Revamp your bathroom without a Remodel

9 Tips to revamp without a remodel Maybe you don’t have the budget to fix up your guest bathroom, or maybe you are just trying to save that budget – either way you came here because you want ideas to revamp without a remodel. Even without a bathroom remodel, there are still plenty of things you can do to make your bathroom a new sight to see. Here are nine ideas to spruce up that guest bathroom that gets no love.

1. Paint your bathroom a bold color. For the cost of a can of paint, you can take your bathroom from boring to energizing. With a little elbow grease of course. You would be surprised how much a new paint color can really make a difference and create an almost remodeled appearance.

2. Transform your space with textiles. Beautiful towels don't have to cost a lot of money, and displayed prominently, they can really change the look of a space. Add funky towel holders that aren’t the typical ones you see in bathrooms. A boldly patterned shower curtain can also make a big difference!

3. Add an unexpected rug. Try an oriental or fancy rug in the bathroom, because why not? No one said you must to stick with basic bathroom mats. Change it up! Check out DIY river rock mats for the bathroom for a taste of nature in your bathroom.

4. Add some shelves into the empty spaces. Add decorated shelves for extra storage space, and a little architectural interest, too. If you have no extra space for shelves, pick up a wheeled storage cart.

5. Work some wallpaper into your bathroom.  Not cheap, but cheaper than remodeling – wallpaper can really change your bathroom. And if you pick really crazy prints or textured wallpaper, people won't be looking at much else.

6. Add a little art. Nothing transforms a bathroom like a little art or custom decor. Just save your precious pieces for spaces with a little less humidity.

7. Paint the ceiling. Painting the ceiling makes for an unexpected, dramatic look, and draws the eye upward. You can even get ceiling tiles for that antique look!

8. Pick out interesting fixtures in bright colors. Your necessities don’t have to be boring; you can supplement your basic colors for cheerful colors and prints. Try painting your fixtures an unexpected color – for instance mustard yellow!

9. Add a statement mirror.  An interesting mirror is sure to draw the eye — and brighten up the room as well. Without breaking the bank you can find a second hand antique mirror or even try framing your current mirror to save money.

9 Tips to Revamp your bathroom without a Remodel

9 Tips to revamp without a remodel Maybe you don’t have the budget to fix up your guest bathroom, or maybe you are just trying to save that budget – either way you came here because you want ideas to revamp without a remodel. Even without a bathroom remodel, there are still plenty of things you can do to make your bathroom a new sight to see. Here are nine ideas to spruce up that guest bathroom that gets no love.

1. Paint your bathroom a bold color. For the cost of a can of paint, you can take your bathroom from boring to energizing. With a little elbow grease of course. You would be surprised how much a new paint color can really make a difference and create an almost remodeled appearance.

2. Transform your space with textiles. Beautiful towels don't have to cost a lot of money, and displayed prominently, they can really change the look of a space. Add funky towel holders that aren’t the typical ones you see in bathrooms. A boldly patterned shower curtain can also make a big difference!

3. Add an unexpected rug. Try an oriental or fancy rug in the bathroom, because why not? No one said you must to stick with basic bathroom mats. Change it up! Check out DIY river rock mats for the bathroom for a taste of nature in your bathroom.

4. Add some shelves into the empty spaces. Add decorated shelves for extra storage space, and a little architectural interest, too. If you have no extra space for shelves, pick up a wheeled storage cart.

5. Work some wallpaper into your bathroom.  Not cheap, but cheaper than remodeling – wallpaper can really change your bathroom. And if you pick really crazy prints or textured wallpaper, people won't be looking at much else.

6. Add a little art. Nothing transforms a bathroom like a little art or custom decor. Just save your precious pieces for spaces with a little less humidity.

7. Paint the ceiling. Painting the ceiling makes for an unexpected, dramatic look, and draws the eye upward. You can even get ceiling tiles for that antique look!

8. Pick out interesting fixtures in bright colors. Your necessities don’t have to be boring; you can supplement your basic colors for cheerful colors and prints. Try painting your fixtures an unexpected color – for instance mustard yellow!

9. Add a statement mirror.  An interesting mirror is sure to draw the eye — and brighten up the room as well. Without breaking the bank you can find a second hand antique mirror or even try framing your current mirror to save money.

Small bathrooms on Small budgets- Contractor Included

Small bathrooms on Small budgets- Contractor Included  

Congrats you are ready to redecorate and redesign your bathroom, very exciting!  But dropping $17,000 on a spa retreat is light years away from what you can afford to spend today? I’ve got good news for you: You don’t need mega-bucks to transform your bathroom into a relaxing escape. There are plenty of ways to renovate and redesign on a budget. Without having to skimp on a contractor!

According to Home Renovations Expert, Lee Wallander, the national average for a bathroom remodel is around $16,000 to $17,000 based on a 35-40 sq. ft. bathroom remodel.

Ok, now is your chance to admit it, you thought about doing this bathroom remodel as a DIY project? Its ok we all have thought about DIY to save money. Don’t go there, it’s not worth it. You will waste more time and money in the long run. There is a better way to utilize your small budget to renovate your small bathroom.

Finding ways to save money isn’t looking easy when you want Granite countertops and top notch fixtures, but it isn’t impossible. When countertop shopping for your bathroom remodel, avoid common colors such as tans and neutrals, these colors are higher priced as they are in demand. Opt for a broad range of colors, and encourage imperfections. Who wants imperfection? Imperfection equals lower priced granite countertops. Your sink will take up most of your countertop anyways, so no one but you will ever know you bought an imperfect piece.

Fixtures are an easy update and you can find inexpensive fixtures if you are shopper friendly. Compare lots of pries before you set sights on that perfect fixture. Craigslist and EBay can have hidden gems as well. Though, if you have the need to get your hands dirty we have the perfect DIY idea for you. Have paint handy? Want a DIY project for your bathroom remodel? Buy a good quality spray paint to give your fixtures a makeover and save money! This project will require patience, paint and drying time. Ensure that the fixtures have adequate drying time in between coats of paint so you don’t have peeling fixtures later on. This is a great way to salvage old fixtures without spending more than $20.

We wish we could DIY all of our bathroom remodel needs. Flooring is one area you don’t have to DIY, unless you want concrete floors, or to tile yourself, but you can save money (still using a contractor) if done the right way. If you are installing tile floors in your bathroom remodel, we can give you a few tips to save big money. When shopping for tile, look for sales on tile. Most stores have blow out sales to sell the last of their inventory. Check with your local store to compare prices. Some tile companies have left over tiles from jobs that they are willing to sell at ultra-low prices, snag those up if they are the right price. Remember that an overly done up bathroom will not make you anymore money in the long run, so sale items are ok. No one needs to know you are a smart shopper, but your mom, she will be proud!

These are just some of the ways you can save money when remodeling your small bathroom. For more ideas or help, contact us today.

Small bathrooms on Small budgets- Contractor Included

Small bathrooms on Small budgets- Contractor Included  

Congrats you are ready to redecorate and redesign your bathroom, very exciting!  But dropping $17,000 on a spa retreat is light years away from what you can afford to spend today? I’ve got good news for you: You don’t need mega-bucks to transform your bathroom into a relaxing escape. There are plenty of ways to renovate and redesign on a budget. Without having to skimp on a contractor!

According to Home Renovations Expert, Lee Wallander, the national average for a bathroom remodel is around $16,000 to $17,000 based on a 35-40 sq. ft. bathroom remodel.

Ok, now is your chance to admit it, you thought about doing this bathroom remodel as a DIY project? Its ok we all have thought about DIY to save money. Don’t go there, it’s not worth it. You will waste more time and money in the long run. There is a better way to utilize your small budget to renovate your small bathroom.

Finding ways to save money isn’t looking easy when you want Granite countertops and top notch fixtures, but it isn’t impossible. When countertop shopping for your bathroom remodel, avoid common colors such as tans and neutrals, these colors are higher priced as they are in demand. Opt for a broad range of colors, and encourage imperfections. Who wants imperfection? Imperfection equals lower priced granite countertops. Your sink will take up most of your countertop anyways, so no one but you will ever know you bought an imperfect piece.

Fixtures are an easy update and you can find inexpensive fixtures if you are shopper friendly. Compare lots of pries before you set sights on that perfect fixture. Craigslist and EBay can have hidden gems as well. Though, if you have the need to get your hands dirty we have the perfect DIY idea for you. Have paint handy? Want a DIY project for your bathroom remodel? Buy a good quality spray paint to give your fixtures a makeover and save money! This project will require patience, paint and drying time. Ensure that the fixtures have adequate drying time in between coats of paint so you don’t have peeling fixtures later on. This is a great way to salvage old fixtures without spending more than $20.

We wish we could DIY all of our bathroom remodel needs. Flooring is one area you don’t have to DIY, unless you want concrete floors, or to tile yourself, but you can save money (still using a contractor) if done the right way. If you are installing tile floors in your bathroom remodel, we can give you a few tips to save big money. When shopping for tile, look for sales on tile. Most stores have blow out sales to sell the last of their inventory. Check with your local store to compare prices. Some tile companies have left over tiles from jobs that they are willing to sell at ultra-low prices, snag those up if they are the right price. Remember that an overly done up bathroom will not make you anymore money in the long run, so sale items are ok. No one needs to know you are a smart shopper, but your mom, she will be proud!

These are just some of the ways you can save money when remodeling your small bathroom. For more ideas or help, contact us today.

Get Inspired: Bathroom tile ideas

Get Inspired: Bathroom tile ideas

Picking bathroom tile can be especially overwhelming if you know how many different tile products are out there and the million colors they come in. The good news is, once you choose the bathroom tile you want to install, one of the hardest parts of installing tile is over! Bathroom Tiles:

Natural Stone Porcelain Ceramic Glass Mosaic

Understand the varieties of tile you can pick bathroom tile from. Make sure you do your research and look up the following types of tile: ceramic tile, glass tile, mosaic tile, porcelain tile, natural stone tile (marble, slate, granite, etc). This does not complete the bathroom tile list, as there are many more. Glazed ceramic tile is often used in bathrooms because it is water resistant and less expensive than other tile, but be sure to research sealants for other types of tile too. Natural stone can be a beautiful solution for your bathroom as long as you are ok with spending the extra money to seal it and make it work. You don’t have to stick with one material throughout your bathroom either. Mix stone with porcelain, or ceramic with glass. There is no right and wrong when defining style.

Now that you have an idea of all the different types of tile, we can go over what colors and pattern options there are. We all know that dark colors make a room feel smaller, so when picking tile colors choose a color that suits the bathroom size. Pops of color or contrasting colors are great for bathroom tile projects.

I love the look of our bathroom remodel; we went with a few different patterns and color options to create this custom look. You do not have to pick all one color tiles to achieve a sophisticated look. Tip: Choose colors that complement each other or draw from the other tile. Such as the brown boarder tiles and accent pattern drew from the dark colors in the granite tub top and counter top. If you have a small bathroom and you want to trick the eye into thinking it is bigger, you can opt for one or two light colors from floor to ceiling. This will give the room no sharp edges and an endless look. Small or large, there are plenty of tile colors and options to suit every style and budget.

For project assistance or remodeling needs, Contact Spazio LA today. Dream- Design- Build.