Ikea Hacks For Every Room

This Ikea hacks will have your home looking like a million bucks. 1. Storage bench

This Ikea book cabinet turned storage bench is the perfect example of re-purposing. Turn stock cabinets and MDF into a stylish bench suitable for under a window, at the end of a bed, or in an entryway.

2. Chic work desk

This ultra chic desk went from Ikea table to luxe work space. Add paint and decorative touches in between the table legs to get this fab decor item in your home.

3.  Hide-a-way Vanity

Tight on space? Turn an Ikea Laptop Station into a sleek vanity, and hang anywhere you need a space saving makeup station. This would be great for a college dorm room or guest bedroom!

4. Luxe Entryway Table

This Ikea Svalbo got a facelift with  peachy paint and gold dipped legs. This goes to show you how far paint can save a piece of furniture!

5. Malm dresser overhaul

Ikea's Malm dresser series is anything but luxe. After some paint and new hardware, you would have guessed it was from a high end furniture store. Try adding brass pull bars and black paint for that vintage look.

Ikea is amazing, but it is even better if you know these hacks!

For more Ikea hacks and other design advice, check out our blog.

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.

Rental Property Remodel for under $1000

Rental Property Remodel for under $1000 Taking the time to renovate a rental property, a landlord can increase both the property’s overall value and their rental income. An upgraded rental has the ability to have an increased rent, and is proven to have a lower vacancy rate.

Unfortunately it is not always easy to know where to begin with renovations on a rental property and not many have the funds to dump into a rental. You want to make income with a rental, and not lose it. Luckily there are some things you can do to have your property looking good in no time at all. If you are a landlord looking to spruce up a rental property, the following tips can help.

1. Start with the exterior, making sure the curb appeal is there is very important as it’s the first impression for potential tenants. Use native plants to the area to give the rental property yard a more eye catching look. If you want something that won’t call for watering, have gravel or river rocks poured in a decorative fashion. This will save your tenants water and maintenance.

2. Update the small stuff. Fresh paint is always a must have, look into the trending interior colors and go with something that can look good with any possible furniture. Baseboards and ceiling molding also add that wow factor most rentals are missing.  Outdated light fixtures and lack of ceiling fans can be killers so don’t forget to upgrade or paint them.  The small details do matter, start looking around at the little things first.

3. Most of your budget should go toward the kitchen and the bathroom renovation. Imagine that all the other rental houses have white appliances and plastic tub surrounds. You offer black appliances and 4×6 faux marble ceramic tile around the tub with a glass door enclosure. The added cost is there, but it allows you to charge an extra $25 per month on rent.

Flooring: Update the flooring to something that will last and that looks better. A lot of rentals have cheap laminate flooring in the kitchen and bathroom – get rid of it and install laminate wood planks or peel and stick tiles. A new floor will change the whole look of the property without a huge hassle. Laminate flooring will run you around 59 cents – 1.29/sq ft and can be installed by any one with handy skills.

Countertops: I have seen some of the worst counter tops in rentals, if the rental property is old enough to have that ghastly yellow counter tops – hurry and fix that eye sore right away. If you can’t replace them with stone or concrete, simple faux marble or granite contact paper does the trick and looks amazing. Contact paper will run you around $30-60 depending on the quality, anything less than that will lose its luster and the color will be wiped off within a few months.

These are just a few simple tips to remodel your rental property for under $1000. For this and other remodel tips, follow us on social media.

Marble Looking Flooring for Less

Marble Looking Flooring for Less Are you in love with marble flooring? Are you able to afford the chunk of change it is going to cost you? Not everyone can spend an unlimited budget on flooring for their remodel, in a perfect world we all could – but in reality sometimes you have to make sacrifices. I know, I know, adulting can be a drag. But…Lucky for us in current times, we have so many options and alternatives to get that same look for less.

For those of you who picture their home with marble flooring throughout, and just don’t have the remodel budget for it – there is hope!

We have come across many inquiring calls and emails raving about the Carrera Marble they see in a lot of our kitchen and bathroom remodels. It’s no wonder why, Carrera Marble is one of the most sought after marbles for Los Angeles remodels. Those calls and emails not only rave, but a lot of them ask us what can they do to get the Marble looking flooring for less. So here we will spill everything we know about how you can achieve the look of marble in your remodel, without actually paying for marble.

The number one remodel trick we have found to get the marble flooring look for less is with the use of porcelain or ceramic tiles that resemble marble. They have many different patterns and colors, shapes and sizes – they even come glossy to perfectly fake out marble fans. No one will know that it isn’t marble, unless of course you tell them! When installed correctly the flooring will mock that of a real marble floor and make your remodel look elegant and grand.

For those of you sitting there thinking to yourself that even ceramic tile is out of your budget or your home just needs a DIY pick me up until you can budget for a Los Angeles remodel company to take over, there is another option.

Peel and Stick Faux Carrera Marble tiles are available at the local hardware store. This is not the best alternative to the marble flooring you dream of, but it works for the time being.  Peel and Stick tile is great way to fix up a rental or income property without spending an arm and a leg. There is even a a brand of Peel and Stick tiles that can be grouted, which gives the look of a real floor versus old school vinyl. Stay tuned for our Blog on Rental Property Remodel for under $1000.

Design Trends You Can Expect in 2017

Design trends for 2017 have already hit us, and here are what the experts are saying you will see a lot more of in the approaching year. The first trend for 2017 involves using LED lights as accent lighting under cabinets. The use of LED lighting installed properly under cabinets gives your kitchen the effect that it is almost floating. This then creates a space that feels larger than life.

Next on the 2017 design trend list is remodeling for accessibility. It is becoming more common for people to continue to stay in their own homes as they grow older and an idea called Universal Design allows them to do this comfortably. Updating the homes based on needs is trending, as this includes bathrooms with wheelchair accessibility.

The make-it-your-own trend continues, giving homeowners the freedom to mix design styles in a way that’s pleasing. Designers have a tough job to build the home their clients have been dreaming of, and not every room has to match. A lot of homeowners are mixing textures and designs throughout the house.

You will see a lot more metal in designs of 2017. At one time, metal was mainly used as an accent, but now it has become a central element, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. Keep a look out for heavy metal in the home remodel designs next year.

“Smart homes” and “connected homes” are becoming more popular, as technological advances offer homeowners flexibility, convenience and even money savings. There are a countless number of options, especially when it comes to wireless technology. There are, for instance, refrigerators that send you reminders to buy milk, lighting ambiance controlled remotely and smoke alarms that alert you when the batteries are low. You can even set your alarm or close your garage door from afar with the touch of a button on your wireless device.

Just a few years ago, tub-and-shower combinations tended to define bathrooms’ floor plans. But now, larger, more elaborate showering spaces and steam rooms have become the trend. Back in the day the idea of having 2 shower heads was considered fancy, now we will be seeing 5 or more shower heads and body sprayers.

Storage-filled basements and dark corners are long gone. Today’s remodeling trends include basements that serve as escapes for visiting guests, man caves or even the state of the art office for work from home parents. Design trends of 2017 will not waste any space that is available for use.

The desire to have a connection between kitchen, eating and living spaces continues to influence both the construction of new homes and remodeling projects in 2017. Open kitchens have remained popular in part because they can help prevent someone cooking food from feeling isolated from the rest of the family.

5 Must-Haves for a Spa-Like Bathroom

Wouldn't it be nice to be able to get away and treat ourselves to a spa day, like every day of the week?  Well, if that dream is a bit out of your reach for financial or practical reasons, there are a few things you can do to your current bathroom to give it that spa feel. Most Los Angeles remodeling contractors will tell you the same thing, creating a spa bathroom of your dreams are practical and more affordable than daily trips to the local spa.

Modern design and technology makes getting your own spa bathroom very possible. Here are the basic must haves in order to really have the spa bathroom you desire.

1. Extra-large soaking tub.

Many tubs are made deeper than previous models for prolonged soaking and resting. If this idea catches your attention, consider adding a stylish grab bar preventing unnecessary slips when entering or exiting. Along with these separate soaking tubs comes a growing request for shelves and spaces to place candles, decorative plants and handy baskets of towels and pampering lotions. Incorporating a TV in the bathroom for viewing from the tub is another amenity that is well liked and asked for more and more.

2. Steam room and Luxury Shower.

No more quick showers with this spa-like feature in your master bath.  With added space and multiple shower heads and built in bench, this becomes the ultimate way to pamper you.  Also, adding in glass panels and doors will help create an open and more spacious feel to the space.

3. Entertainment system with TV.

With the other features of your spa-like bathroom, it is obvious that you will be spending more time in the space.  Adding flat screen TVs and stereos in bathrooms is becoming more and more popular as homeowners are creating their ultimate oasis to soak away the day.  We’ve even seen small refrigeration units installed to have cold beverages readily available!

4. The right color!

Spas use neutral shades to keep the feeling of the room peaceful and relaxing. When introducing new colors, stick to neutral and earthy tones. Try using whites and light blue shades for a modern feel and light greens and wood for an earthier vibe.

5. Heated floors and a heated towel rack.

Every spa has those warm, cozy robes and towels – why not mock the idea and have a heated towel rack installed so that you never have to endure a cold towel again. And why go through the inconvenience of stepping onto cold bathroom tile floors when you can have heated floors?  Not only do they welcome bare feet but they make it easy to step out of the shower without getting chilled after you relaxed.

Marble Bathroom Design Inspiration

Marble is a royal material; it’s refined and gives your bathroom a luxurious feel. The material is durable and will last a lifetime when installed and cared for properly. Yes, Marble is expensive, due to the fact that it is mined from metamorphic rocks and goes through a complicated processing before it can reach your bathroom. Just take a look at the beauty marble can add to your bathroom.

Photo credit: bathroomsketch.com

You may be asking yourself if the investment in marble is worth the return. The answer is yes. You can dramatically increase the value of your home by thousands of dollars due to its perceived value. Pro Tip: Make sure you have an experienced professional install the marble

Now that you are keen to the idea of using marble in your bathroom remodel we can go through the nitty gritty design details. There are several types and shades of marble, not to mention it combines with wood and stone well. Thanks to its veined texture and crystal composition marble is highly valued as a decorative stone. There are various types of marble that are found worldwide and not only in white and gray but also black, violet, green, yellow, red, pink, blue and purple colors.One of our favorite types to work is Carrara Marble.

It makes for great decorative wall and floor finish if you are looking to use the marble extensively. Depending on your needs and taste, you can use marble sparsely as it can be mixed with other tiles to create a beautiful shower stall.

Avoid the WORST kitchen remodeling mistakes

Avoid the WORST kitchen remodeling mistakes

Photo Credit: Google

Everyone has heard the kitchen remodel horror stories about some contractor whom skips town with your money, or a contractor whom leaves your kitchen a huge, unworkable mess because a product is on back order. Let’s avoid those horror stories and get your kitchen remodel done the right way.

1. Don’t go with the first remodeling company you see online. This goes for the first company offering a big discount. Some companies can offer a savings if you sign up with them right on the spot. Avoid letting pushy tactics get you to sign a contract without much thought or research. Ask lots of questions, read reviews and ask for references. A remodel company’s work should speak for itself. If the reviews are reading the same thing over and over, describing poor quality and such forth, then you may need to pass on that company.

2. Don’t pay for the entire project until the entire project is completed. Most projects will require you to make a significant down payment. This is normal since the contractor has to place orders for products that are designed specifically for your kitchen. If you decided to withdraw from the project, the down payment is their financial safety net. However, you deserve a safety net too. It is good policy to always leave a portion outstanding until the kitchen is finished. 10% is pretty typical. If you have a problem giving your contractor a down payment, then you don’t trust them. If you feel your contractor is untrustworthy, it’s time for a new one. You should always be able to trust your contractor. They’re the one that will be in your home and making big changes.

3. Don’t stress yourself out if the project gets set back a few days. Think of the end result and how you will enjoy this kitchen remodel for a good amount of years, a few days off schedule will be OK. Projects will have draw backs and there will be things that come up and change plans. You will need to roll with the punches so to say, and trust your remodel team has everything under control.

4. Don’t expect a working kitchen until the project’s done unless otherwise stated. Make arrangements so you won’t need one. Cabinet refacing does not shut down your kitchen, but new countertops in addition to refacing will. You will probably be without running water and a sink for a day or two. New kitchens are shut down on day one, as soon as the old cabinets are torn out. Depending on the countertop chosen, you’re typically looking at 2-4 weeks before you have a fully functional kitchen again.

5. Don’t start your remodel before you’ve chosen your appliances. Make sure you have the specs in the contractors’ hands prior to cabinets being ordered. That way they can arrange a better fit for the appliance into the cabinets. This applies especially to wall ovens, built in microwaves, cook tops, and large refrigerators.

Top 10 Reasons to Remodel a Kitchen

Top 10 Reasons to Remodel a Kitchen Remodeling the kitchen can be a major undertaking if you don’t hire the correct design company or if you try the DIY approach.

It is not just the expense, but also the inconvenience to the household that gives many homeowners pause when considering such an undertaking. In spite of this, homeowners continue to find good reasons to proceed with a kitchen remodel. Here are the top 10 reasons homeowners gave us when asked why they wanted a new kitchen remodel.

Deterioration

The kitchen might simply be falling apart, or slowly breaking down to the point of no return. Cracked tiles, peeling countertops, broken or missing cabinet doors and outdated appliances don’t inspire gourmet cooking or family gatherings, and rather make you less inclined to have people over. The deteriorated kitchen has simply outlived its usefulness and needs a remodel. According to an article on Personal Finance, your home appliances should be replaced every 10 years and updated before that if they are not energy efficient.

Value

Many kitchen remodels begin from the need or idea to increase the property value. Most home buyers will avoid purchasing a home that will need a remodel in the near future; this is not something you may have the finances to do after such a purchase. Not only due to finances, but a newly renovated kitchen may sell before a home with an outdated one for the same selling price.

Energy Savings

Energy savings might be the prime motivation for a kitchen remodel. Outdated appliances and dinosaur water heaters could be killing your utility bills. Green remodels are easily financed through the HERO Program and save you money.  Adding skylights brings in more sunshine, reducing the need for artificial light. Energy-efficient appliances and solar water heaters cut the utility bill and place less stress on the environment.

Modernity

The kitchen can be pristine yet outdated. The kitchen is usually the last room in the home to get remodeled and the room that needs it the most. Homeowners noted the reason for the kitchen remodel was that the rest of their house was updated, yet the kitchen was stuck in the 50’s.

Lifestyle

The kitchen layout may have worked great for the previous homeowner, but not for you. Perhaps it lacks a breakfast bar, and your family wants to gather informally in the kitchen to enjoy coffee or grab a quick meal without going to the dining room table. Whatever the reason, one motivation for a kitchen remodel is to arrange the room to best suit the family’s needs.

Special Circumstances

It is sometimes necessary to remodel the kitchen to better accommodate the needs of disabled or aging family members. Or your family could be growing in size and the need for a kitchen remodel to accommodate them.

Financial Incentives

The prime motivation behind a remodel might simply be financial incentives, such as energy-saving rebates offered by government entities or vendors. Financial incentives include sales at home improvement centers, cash rebates for trading in outdated appliances, remodeling grants and low- or no-interest loans.

Change

Some homeowners simply want change. The current kitchen might be functional, updated and attractive, yet no longer appeal to the homeowner.

Home Improvement TV

Watching home improvement shows on cable television inspires many homeowners to remodel their kitchens. They may never have considered such a project until a home improvement program showed them the possibilities for their kitchen.

Gourmet Kitchen

For a homeowner who enjoys preparing fancy meals and considers himself a gourmet cook, the prime reason for a remodel is the desire to create a dream kitchen. A gourmet kitchen with fancier amenities than most accommodates the cook’s needs.

How to fake a Fireplace without it looking cheap

How to fake a Fireplace without it looking cheap I can’t lie, this Christmas season has me head over heels in love with Fireplaces and having the idea of a Mantle to hang stockings from. There is just something about hanging stocking and fancy garland from a mantle that screams CHRISTMAS! You may be sitting there thinking, “Yeah sounds great, but I can’t have a wood burning fireplace, thanks anyways.” This is exactly why designers have crazy ideas, to give you your dream home, even when you can’t have a certain aspect.

So you don’t have a fireplace or mantle, and you can’t remodel your home to get one. What do you do? You have a faux fireplace and electric heater built custom for your home! There are two options here, you can have one built into your home and attached to your existing wall – this is a great option for home owners. There are an endless amount of design ideas and color schemes to give you the perfect Faux Fireplace!

Let’s say you hate the idea of an electric heater, you can chose to go with candles instead to give you that fancy look.

If you want something less permanent, in the event you move or want to have this option in your bedroom after your living room design gets boring – then you can have a custom faux fireplace and electric heater built as a standalone. This option is kind of like a piece of furniture, and can be moved with you or rearranged as you see fit. Great for people who change their mind often, if you find yourself rearranging your living room throughout the year, lets opt for this option.

Contact one of our designers today to start designing your dream home.

Money saving tips for your Bathroom Remodel

Money saving tips for your Bathroom Remodel

• The best place to start with any remodeling project is the budget. Not only will it have a big impact on the type of materials you select for your bathroom renovation, it will also help you set the boundaries of your design. Knowing your budget before you have to suffer a broken heart when you can’t buy that fixture you have been eyeing, will save you in the long run.

• Going "green" is not only good for the environment; it’s also good for you. Green products have great design, tend to function better, which lowers utility bills, and they’re also chemical-free, making them better for your health. Having an eco-friendly approach to remodeling isn’t just about buying new products, doing something "green" can be as simple as painting a cabinet instead of tossing it in a landfill. Not to mention “Green” remodels are eligible for the HERO program. Ask us today about this amazing program.

• Want to save some big bucks remodeling your bathroom? Consider refinishing the existing tub and sink, versus buying a brand new one. Refinishing may not be an option in every case, your design team will be able to access your current tub and sink.

• Don't move your plumbing. On the surface, switching your sink and toilet around may look easy enough, but the problem lies underneath and all the costs involved in moving that plumbing. A remodel and design team will be able to keep your existing layout, without boring you with the same old bathroom you are tired of.
• DIY bathroom remodels end up costing you more than you expect. Our advice is to leave the remodeling to the professionals who do this kind of work every day.

• Changing out all the hardware, such as drawer pulls, faucet handles and shower heads, can make a big impact. Small cosmetic changes will save you money and help give you a new looking bathroom.

• Don't underestimate the importance of lighting in a bathroom. Sconce lighting at the vanity is the ideal way to get even lighting on your face, and installing it at eye level will help diminish unflattering shadows. Dim lighting is nice for a relaxing bath; bright lights are great for shaving or applying makeup. Adding more overall lighting can make a small bathroom seem larger.

• Ventilation. Ventilation. Ventilation. Moisture is your bathroom’s greatest enemy. Mold and mildew will make quick work of any renovation you’ve done so be sure to install a vent fan of appropriate CFMs for the square footage of your bathroom. The rough guide is one CFM per square foot for bathrooms of one hundred square feet or smaller. New designs are quieter and more stylish than ever and are a must have for any bathroom remodel; they even have stereo speaker ventilation systems.

Feng Shui and Décor for a Romantic Bedroom

Feng Shui and Décor for a Romantic Bedroom Set the scene for love in your bedroom by practicing the ancient art and science of Feng Shui that uses your environment to activate your personal intentions. Here are 7 ways you can trigger positive energies for your love life, or spark one if you are searching.

1. Hang Mirrors and Crystals

The actual placement of your bedroom is critically important to your love agenda. If it lies in what’s called the “dragon’s mouth” - at the end of a long hallway or corridor - or is lined up with the front door, it can cause issues in the romance department. To counteract potential problems, hang mirrors diagonally opposite each other in the hallway just outside the bedroom door in order to slow the energies down.

2. Use Red Bed Linens

7 Powerful Feng Shui Tips to Bring Love to Your Bedroom-red sheets. Red is the color of love and passion, a must use color in the bedroom.  Alternate your choice of bed linens among bright red, gray or white to create more pizzazz and bring more passion into the bedroom too. Red sheets will make your love life sizzle but don’t use them too often or your romance could ‘burn out.’

3. Create a Spark with Candles

A pair of  candles in the back right-hand corner of the room can add both a spark and a glow to your love life while also attracting a new flame if you’re single. Just make sure to light them every once in a while.

4. Create Space for a Partner

7 Powerful Feng Shui Tips to Bring Love to Your Bedroom-empty a dresser drawer for a potential partner. If you’re single and looking, you should create space for your ideal partner. This whole idea of creating a place for two is critical and key in the bedroom. There should be two bedside tables and two lamps on them. In fact, it’s really important to take an objective look around the whole room and make sure that is says that a pair of partners love each other there.

5. Add ‘Scentsual’ and Visual Stimulation

7 Powerful Feng Shui Tips to Bring Love to Your Bedroom-aroma and visuals. Use essential oils to create an aroma that sparks lust and inner peace.  Pictures or images of couples in love, or really any image or symbol that speaks the language of love to and/or for you, should be placed with intention in the bedroom, especially across from the entryway and across from the foot of the bed. These are said to be the two most important locations for visual stimulation in this room.

6. Don’t Mix Work and Play

If you want to work up some steamy romance in the bedroom then make sure you keep your career out of it! Work and play don’t mix in this space, but if you must have a work space in the bedroom, cordon off your workspace by using a screen or even a beaded curtain.

7. Use This Bedside Lamp Trick

7 Powerful Feng Shui Tips to Bring Love to Your Bedroom-turn on bedside lamps. Here’s one last ‘secret’ Shui tip that I love. Whether you’re looking for love or already in a relationship that can use a little spicing up, turn your bedside lamps on at the same time each night and keep them on for at least three consecutive hours. Then, turn them off at the same time.

 

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.

Pros and Cons of Flooring Options

Pros and Cons of Flooring Options When remodeling your home you may feel overwhelmed with the many choices of Flooring Options. And there are many options! You may want to consider a few things before you lay down that floor solely because it looks good. We will help you make smart choices before your regret the floor you picked out.

Spazio LA will break down the options and factors that will help you make the right choice.

Things to consider when doing your flooring are:

1. Cleaning and Durability:

If you have pets and kids you may want to consider an option that is easy to clean. Choosing an option that will hold up to traffic and accidents is important.

2. Cost and Value:

It is important to consider the quality of the flooring and the value for your money. You don’t want to throw away money to replace a floor that you had remodeled only a few years back because you went with a cheaper option.  Also, installing quality flooring adds value to your home for years to come.

3. Location, Location, Location:

The ideal flooring can change based on where you are installing it as well. Rooms used more often will require durable flooring. Bathrooms will require flooring that is moisture and water resistant- and safe! Some flooring options and the way it is installed can make an area look larger, or smaller. You want durable flooring in a kids rooms but it needs to be safe and warm also.

Here we lay out the pros and cons of only a few different flooring options. Never the less if you are in doubt call a professional to help you with your home remodeling needs.

Pros & Cons

                       

Carpet

Pros -Carpet can act like another layer of insulation and help keep cold or warm drafts from seeping through the floor.

-It goes without saying that carpet is always going to be the softest of any type of flooring. -Carpet helps to reduce sound and noises from one floor to the next. Cons -Regular vacuuming is needed (every one to two days for high traffic areas) frequently. Spills need to be removed immediately to prevent staining and liquid to seep deep into fibers to cause mold and mildew.

Hardwood

Pros -An upgrade to hardwood floors will add a lot of value to your home. -Hardwood floors are easy to care for by sweeping or vacuuming them daily and wiping them with an approved wood cleaner. -There are many different types of woods, stains and plank sizes to choose from.

Cons

-Every step that is taken on wood floors can be heard. Not to mention, furry friends can slip and slide because their padded feet can’t grip the shiny, smooth surface.

Laminate

Pros -The protective layer on laminate helps protect it from something that would normally stain easily. -Vacuum away loose dirt and debris and mop with a damp mop.

Cons                                                                                                                                                                     -Laminate may look like hardwood, but doesn’t have the value like hardwood. -Laminate flooring is easily dented. Laminate flooring cannot be sanded or refinished. Areas with large scratches or gouges need to be replaced with new laminate flooring.

Tile – Ceramic/Stone/Porcelain

Pros -Easy, fast clean up – and great for high traffic.

-Adds a clean and elegant finish to a room.

- Nontoxic and great for those who suffer allergies as it doesn’t harbor allergens.

Cons -Not a good insulator for heat.

-Dangerous when wet!

-Tiles can crack and need to be replaced.

Counter-Top Appliances you must have in your kitchen

From blenders to espresso machines, these small appliances add big convenience to your kitchen. Trust me when I say, I have tried to live without a few of them and it was not something I recommend. #1 Slow Cooker: This bad boy is a must have in your kitchen, and will never steer you wrong. The best feeling is coming home after a long day at work to dinner being cooked and ready to plate. (Of course you had to put a few things inside it and turn it on before setting it) Our busy Los Angeles lives leave us very little time to eat, unless we plan ahead or grab food on the go. The Slow Cooker is great for stews, one pot meals, and a whole slew of recipes - even bread! Get your hands on the Cuisinart voted best slow cooker of the year.

#2 Blender: Now I know you are thinking of hosting a margarita party in your new kitchen remodel, a blender is a must to accomplish this. The high power machines reduce fruits and veggies into healthy smoothies and crush ice into snow cones.

#3 Stand Mixer: Two words, Stand, Mixer. Once you have one you will never, I repeat never, go back to mixing by hand and whisk again. It's the ultimate machine to have. You can mix your favorite brownie batter, whip up some pizza dough, whisk soft meringue peaks - not to mention you can get attachments like an ice cream maker and ravioli press. Start out with a KitchenAid Stand Mixer and you will not be disappointed.

# 4 Coffee Maker: I know you are all thinking, "why wasn't a coffee maker #1 on this list?" Well that would have been to obvious, and I almost was inclined to make it the last on the list due to the fact that it is almost expected to be #1. Now that we are talking about your start to the day machine, today's coffee makers are not the old pot and coffee grounds your parents grew up with. We are talking a plethora of coffee makers that whip your creamer, froth your mild and brew cafe that has the local coffee shop jealous. We could write a whole blog dedicated to coffee makers if we really wanted to. But, this must have counter-top appliance is a must. I'm not sure a kitchen in america is lacking this appliance.

#5 Toaster Oven: Why do I need a toaster oven when I have a microwave? Because there will be a day when you want something toasted, and not nuked. For instance, left over pizza must be thrown into the toaster oven to avoid that soggy grease soaked crust. Another reason you need a toaster oven is due to the fact that you can cook almost anything in it!

This list covers strictly the must haves, and not the wants! There is a whole other side to appliances and specialty items you want to have. For this and more tips on remodels and decor - check out our blog.

Transform your home with the trends

Transform your home with the trends Keeping up with interior design trends is no easy task. When this requires a serious financial investment most of us prefer to ignore them. What if there were easy ways to transform the look of your home without having to replace the furniture? We offer you some simple home design transformations following recent trends in the world of interior design.

Contrasting Kitchen Cabinets

The kitchen is often the most expensive to redesign. Because of this kitchen cabinets are the oldest pieces of furniture in many homes. Don’t worry! You can transform your kitchen cabinets by just putting a fresh coat of paint in the colors that are on trend now. The biggest design hit these days is painting the lower and upper cabinets in two different colors. The most popular is grey  for the lower and white for the upper cabinets. You can pick from different shades of grey for the lower cabinets, ranging from very dark to very light. This stylish and timeless color scheme will add glamour to your kitchen.

Persian Rugs in the Bathroom

Opt for a colorful Persian rug instead of a bathroom mat. Bathrooms can feel somewhat sterile and adding a pop of color is a simple solution. Persian rugs are a hot trend at the moment. They are very graphic and colorful and they are often enough to transform the look of an entire room. They work well in the bathroom and make a perfect accent item.

Mixing Old and New

Mixing furniture and other design elements from different decades or even centuries is very on trend. For example you can mix ultra modern furniture with old vintage dressers and chairs. This brings an eclectic feel to living spaces. You would want to make your home to look like there are layers of history in it and this is easy to achieve by adding some antique pieces. Think again before you throw away old furniture!

Homier Bathroom

One of the hottest interior design trends of 2016 is bathrooms that feel like living spaces. There are several tips and tricks you can follow to achieve that cozy bathroom feel. Add a seating area in the bathroom or just a comfortable armchair. You can also add furniture with more shelving. Plants are also a good way to make the bathroom look more like your living room.

Source: www.persquare.com

Make An Industrial Loft Your Dream Home

Many city dwellers salivate over the prospect of living in an urban loft. There’s something about those exposed HVAC ducts, wood beans, and wide open floor plans that makes living among the concrete jungle a much more feasible option in Los Angeles. Perhaps it’s because they often offer better views, or perhaps it’s because finding large space in a city is increasingly hard to come by. What ever your reasoning is, a loft can be just as much your dream home as a large house.

This modern loft in Downtown LA got a face lift with some unique details such as concrete polish floors and new wood floors to match the modern flat panel kitchen cabinets. This Downtown loft proves that even loft can be designed with luxury in mind.

Designer tip: Keep your entry way simple with an antique hall way table adorned with delicate decor.With so much open space and towering high ceilings,  it's time to curate a gallery wall. The revered design feat is a creative collection of artworks ranging in height, position, and style. From new artists to flea-market finds, the gallery wall is a humble dedication to all forms of creative expression.

Flat panel kitchen cabinets were installed with quartz counter tops and wood floors to make this small kitchen area anything less than spectacular. We used Polished Concrete in the entry way,  and kept the industrial exposed beams and ducting. Making use of the space under the stairway, a chic desk was styled with a chair in this seasons must have color; Mustard.

Since Downtown Los Angeles is notorious for small spaces, this simple design trick gives the room a spacious appearance, even if it's not. To ensure it stays looking that way, carefully consider your furniture placement. Even if your home isn't an open plan, you can give off the essence of one by thinking about your furniture placement. Once you've decided on your pieces, move them around, really work the space making sure to leave ample "white space" for breathing room.

Let Spazio LA help with your next remodel! Contact us today for an exclusive and always complimentary in house design estimate. 1.877.624.7772

Winter Remodel Trends You Must Follow

See all the colors that you must have in your interiors this fall and winter! As usual, all the color trends of this season are influenced by Nature’s Fall tones like green, brown, yellow, warm and neutral colors! Throughout this article, you’ll find some looks to inspire yourself and help you prepare for this new season! Here is a color that more than likely never even came to your head: Mustard!

This color brings warmth mixed with an eye-catching contemporary edge, and it’s very simple to apply in your home, a new cushion, a new lampshade… You can always mixed with accents of oranges and calm grays, and be bold and add a statement sofa or chair to your living room.

Photo Credit: Overstock.com

Grey

Shades of gray still dominate the home design world, with darker tones becoming more prevalent and combining perfectly with the ‘must-have’ mustard tones of the season. Grey can look totally at home in a traditional or modern interior design context.

Photo Credit: myhomerocks.com

Purple

This season, you’ll never overuse purple. This shade continues to offer home design a vast variety of room looks based on this popular color and it shows no signs of losing its grip on many of the retailers’ interior ranges for Fall and Winter 2016.  Mix the color with some floral patterns, paisley and folk inspired bohemian prints to bring a room totally up-to-date.

Photo Credit: terryfabrics.co.uk

Gold

Gold will continue to dominate this season, used as a metallic accent combined with the dark tones trend. Always stunning, gold will continue to chase copper to be the winning metal of choice in your home ambiance this season.

We really hope you liked our article. Feel free to pin all the images to your Pinterest board where you keep the best inspirations. You can also visit our Pinterest in order to find more inspirations on interior designs and architecture. Contact us today to get more ideas for your interior design projects and find functional, stylish, sizable and trendy decor choices.

Important Kitchen Remodelling Guidelines on Electrical and Ventilation Components

Out of all the rooms in your home, there is one that is always going to cost you the most in the event that you have it rebuilt, redesigned, or remodeled – the kitchen. Aside from being the most expensive, you can also expect your kitchen remodeling project to be the most challenging of all the home improvement projects you have ever launched. After all, this is the heart of your home and a lot of time is spent here.

Before you back out of your decision to improve this room in your house, you should know that, a properly and impressively remodeled kitchen can bring in so many benefits. Since it is where almost everything happens – from preparing food to having family talks -   making this area comfortable, attractive, and functional is a wise decision.

You need to understand though, that remodeling your kitchen involves more than just picking out pretty furnishings, beautiful finishes, and innovative gadgetry. You also need to make smart decisions in the overall design and décor to ensure that the overall safety, security, and accessibility of the room are also enhanced. Read on to find out how to achieve these goals.

Electrical Components and Ventilation Systems

Make sure that all of the receptacles that service your countertop areas are protected by ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). There should also be, at the very least, one one wall-switch controlled light in it. Have this control built at or near the entrance, for easy access. It is also advisable that your kitchen is made of at least 8 percent windows. Lights should be available on every work surface in the room too.

Never underestimate the value of a top notch outdoor-venting system. Go for one that has a minimum of 150 cu. ft. of air/minute exhaust rate. Range hoods are now considered to be a must in kitchens as well. These should be placed at least 2 feet above your stove. If the manufacturer has specific instructions for this device, follow them.

Potential Kitchen Safety Concerns

It is crucial that you understand the dangers that can arise from the kitchen. These hazards are not only harmful in nature; they can also be sometimes life-threatening. There is always going to be a possibility of fires, falls, cuts, and scalds happening, so it is a must that you protect yourself and your loved ones from these risks. Here are a few tips on how you can avoid such unfortunate events:

1. Have a fire extinguisher easily accessible and placed in a visible area. Keep it away from the cooking equipment. Everyone in the household should be knowledgeable on how to operate it.

1. Never have a cooking surface right below a functional window, as this could potentially block your fire exit.

1. To prevent hazards, Do not install window treatments above the oven or a the stove top.

1. Make sure that the countertops you are going to install have rounded or clipped edges, which are far safer than those with sharp edges. Keep a First Aid Kit in the kitchen to respond quickly to injuries.

1. Use childproofing devices and accessories in all areas of the kitchen that can be accessed by small and young children. Childproofing kits can be purchased from large retailers world wide.

Being able to complete a kitchen remodeling project can be a very rewarding experience, so make sure that you keep in mind the tips discussed above.

Tricky ways to save on your kitchen remodel

Tricky ways to save money on your kitchen remodel Kitchen design and planning is a daunting task. We often know the look we want, but many times our budgets aren't as large as our wish lists are long. But that doesn't mean we can't have a remarkable kitchen remodel— we just have to get smart. Reach into the designer inspired bag of tricks for savvy ways to get full-on style with a much smaller price tag. Get the kitchen you have always wanted without going broke.

(Photo Credit - Houzz)

#1 Tile

Problem is you found the most amazing tile for your kitchen backsplash and its way over your budget. One tricky way to save money on your kitchen remodel is to use that amazing tile, as an accent to another complimentary, lower priced tile. This way you are getting to save money while still going with your desired style. Try using the expensive tile in a pattern above your range or as a trim to your backsplash. When is a backsplash not just a backsplash? With a little attention to detail, you can take your backsplash from a run-of-the-mill design feature to the focal point of the whole room.

#2 Lighting

Illumination is key to adorning interior spaces. Proper kitchen design necessitates well-lit areas to allow you to conveniently work in the kitchen. As a result, ample natural light inside the kitchen space is indispensable. Designer lighting can be expensive, and sometimes the splurge is not feasible. Try looking for faux luxe lighting or resale shops; you can generally find affordable lighting that looks just like designer décor and no one will know. Looking for décor steals? Try World Market and Home Goods.

#3 Flooring

That hardwood caught your eye in your home décor magazine? If hardwood is a must, but would bust your budget you must try Vinyl Plank Flooring. VPF looks like genuine hardwood although is over half the cost. A variety of desirable characteristics continue to make this versatile flooring material a popular option to this day. The colors and pattern options that are available with vinyl flooring are nearly endless, and the maintenance is simple.