Innovative designs are saving homes

Innovative designs are saving homes

Ever come home and hate seeing that same old fireplace and same old carpet? Ever wish you could just sell your house and start over? Don’t sell or settle, remodel!

Spazio LA is saving homes one design and remodel at a time.

Why shouldn’t you sell your home? Selling your home is costly and time consuming, not to mention the ghastly packing and searching hours for this home you dream of. When the truth is, you will never find what you are searching for; because you already have it. Why settle when you can make more of the home you have. Where ever there are walls, a roof and a floor there is hope.

Start dreaming of what potential your current home has! Real estate agents won’t tell you what amazing things you could do if you only made some changes to your current family home, but WE will tell you that the possibilities are ENDLESS. You think your bathroom is too small to feel like anything near a spa, or your kitchen is too outdated to be a chef’s paradise, think again. The relaxing bathroom and entertainers kitchen awaits, you just need a little help from the best.  Innovative designs make your home more efficient, unique and luxurious without sacrificing space.  We at Spazio LA know just how to use color, light and texture to turn your home into the envy of the town.

Don’t let the idea of remodeling scare you, our professional team will see you through every step of the way. Contact us today for your complimentary in-house design estimate.

Let Spazio LA design and build the home of your dreams.

How does your renovation project measure up as an investment?

Home improvement projects that offer the best return on your investment How does your renovation project measure up as an investment?

See where it fits in this rundown from the report — which ranks the 29 remodeling jobs by percentage of project cost that homeowners can expect to recoup when selling your home. Get the most of out your investment and remodel smart.

29. Bathroom addition (midrange): 53.9%

This midrange project envisions a 6-by-8-foot bathroom addition with a cultured marble countertop and ceramic tile floor. At a 53.9 percent return on investment, it is the least cost-effective of the 29 projects studied in Remodeling Magazine’s 2017 report.

• Cost: $43,232
• Home value increase: $23,283

28. Backup power generator (midrange): 54%

• Cost: $12,860
• Home value increase: $6,940

27. Backyard patio (midrange): 54.9%

• Cost: $51,985
• Home value increase: $28,546

26. Composite deck addition (upscale): 56.4%

Create a 16-by-20-foot deck of composite decking materials, with stairs to a second lower 10-foot-diameter platform at one corner and other custom details.

• Cost: $39,339
• Home value increase: $22,171

25. Bathroom addition (upscale): 57.1%

This project envisions adding a 100-square-foot master bathroom to an existing bedroom, with a shower in a frameless glass enclosure, a freestanding soaker tub and other amenities including electric in-floor heating.

• Cost: $81,515
• Home value increase: $46,507

24. Bathroom remodel (upscale): 59.1%

Expand a 35-square-foot bathroom to 100 square feet, relocate and upgrade fixtures, and add such amenities as in-floor heating.

• Cost: $59,979
• Home value increase: $35,456

23. Master suite addition (upscale): 59.9%

• Cost: $250,687
• Home value increase: $150,140

22. Major kitchen remodel (upscale): 61.9%

• ​Cost: $122,991
• Home value increase: $76,149

21. Master suite addition (midrange): 64.8%

• Cost: $119,533
• Home value increase: $77,506

20. Bathroom Remodel (midrange): 64.8%

• Cost: $18,546
• Home value increase: $12,024

19. Composite deck addition (midrange): 65.2%

Create a 16-by-20-foot deck of composite decking materials.

• Cost: $17,249
• Home value increase: $11,252

18. Major kitchen remodel (midrange): 65.3%

• Cost: $62,158
• Home value increase: $40,560

17. Bathroom remodel for universal access (midrange): 68.4%

As the big baby boomer generation remodels homes with aging in place in mind, the emphasis on universal design is growing. This project, for a 5-by-7-square-foot bathroom, includes widening doorways for wheelchair access, dropping the height of electrical outlets and switches, replacing the tub with a roll-in shower and adding a more-accessible toilet among other improvements.

• Cost: $15,730
• Home value increase: $10,766

16. Roofing replacement (midrange): 68.8%

• Cost: $20,664
• Home value increase: $14,214

15. Family room addition (midrange): 69.3%

• Cost: $89,566
• Home value increase: $62,055

14. Basement Remodel (midrange): 70%

• Cost: $71,115
• Home value increase: $49,768

13. Grand entrance (upscale): 70.1%

This one-day “grand entrance” project involves expanding the entry to accommodate a new, higher-end fiberglass door with surrounding sidelights.

• Cost: $8,358
• Home value increase: $5,855

12. Two-story addition (midrange): 71.1%

• Cost: $176,108
• Home value increase: $125,222

11. Wood deck addition (midrange): 71.5%

• Cost: $10,707
• Home value increase: $7,652

10. Wood window replacements (upscale): 73%

This project envisions replacing 10 existing 3-by-5-foot double-hung windows with insulated windows featuring interior hardwood finish and exterior aluminum cladding.

• Cost: $18,759
• Home value increase: $13,691

9. Vinyl window replacements (upscale): 73.9%

In this project, the 10 insulated replacement windows are vinyl with simulated wood-grain interior finish.

• Cost: $15,282
• Home value increase: $11,286

8. Siding replacement (midrange): 76.4%

• Cost: $14,518
• Home value increase: $11,093

7. Garage door replacement (midrange): 76.9%

• Cost: $1,749
• Home value increase: $1,345

6. Fiberglass entry door replacement (upscale): 77.8%

• Cost: $3,276
• Home value increase: $2,550

5. Minor kitchen remodel (midrange): 80.2%

• Cost: $20,830
• Home value increase: $16,699

4. Garage door replacement (upscale): 85%

• Cost: $3,304
• Home value increase: $2,810

3. Manufactured stone veneer: 89.4%

This project involves removing 300 square feet of vinyl siding along the bottom of the home’s street-facing facade and replacing it with manufactured stone veneer.

• Cost: $7,851
• Home value increase: $7,019

2. Steel entry door replacement (midrange): 90.7%

• Cost: $1,413
• Home value increase: $1,282

1. Fiberglass attic insulation (midrange): 107.7%

• Cost: $1,343

• Home value increase: $1,446

5 Simple but Life-Changing Remodeling Ideas

5 Simple but Life-Changing Remodeling Ideas

Now that we are through the holidays and the New Year, it’s finally time to stop procrastinating and start turning the house remodeling gears. That long list of improvements you created last year has been gathering dust for far too long, and with spring just around the corner there’s never a better time to get remodeling.

While that list is probably long and distinguished, it’s important to narrow your scope down to a few projects to make sure you follow through rather than drowning in the overwhelming flood of ‘must do’ items. Keep it short. Keep it simple. Keep it on budget. With a streamlined set of tasks laid out with a clear budget and a clear schedule, you’ll be free to complete your remodels relatively stress free. Here are 5 simple but life-changing remodeling ideas to improve your house this 2017.

1 | Exterior Siding Improvements You’ve probably been yearning to take this task on since you purchased the home and decided to ‘live with’ the pink board and batten siding with bright purple trim. Well, now’s the time to stop yearning and start doing. It’s never been more affordable to bite the bullet and re-side your home. Not only will you increase market-value and weather protection, you’ll have full creative control to give your home the curb appeal you imagined it having.

2 | Flooring Updating your flooring is a no-brainer, and should be considered to be a worthwhile improvement for anyone’s first project. It’s a great way to ease yourself into the ebb and flow of a remodel project without breaking the bank (or more importantly, your spirit). Just like with exterior siding, there are unlimited options, so it’s best to agree upon a general aesthetic first and look at specifications later. Hardwood flooring is the most ubiquitous material choice, whether solid or engineered hardwood. If you’re looking to re-floor your home on the cheap, manufacturers are working magic these days with engineered hardwoods. Bamboo is a great option too because it’s sustainable sourced, easy to install, durable, and comes in a wide range of finishes.

3 | Build a Fireplace Not too long ago adding a fireplace to your home meant ripping up some exterior walls, calling the town mason, and applying for a second mortgage to pay for the thing. Thankfully, times have changed, and adding a warm fireplace to your living room has never been easier. If your home is already stubbed out for gas, this proposition becomes a slam dunk, and there are a variety of ways you can finish the feature out – whether it be with brick, stone, or blackened steel. If you don’t have a gas hook-up, there is a growing list of wall mounted fireplace options.

4 | Make a Space for a Home Office You should look into sourcing some commercial grade hardwood floors, plenty of natural light (and ideally a view), and a desk that makes you feel like some work is about to get done. Be deliberate about every piece of furniture, and if you are creating this space by adding new walls, be sure to consider how you will be using your home office so you get things perfect the first time. You might even consider talking to an architect to make best use of your existing space.

5 | Rear Deck or Patio The backyard is the homeowner’s best friend. Host BBQs, a backyard is nothing without a proper place to flip burgers and kick up your loafers. Before you dive those loafers into the deep end, however, you might want to consider how the topography of your yard might determine going with a deck vs a patio. If your yard is sloping away from the house, a deck is going to be your best option. For flat yards, or yards that slope towards the home, a patio is the way to go.

Give us a call for help; you will be enjoying a margarita under your veranda a lot faster than the DIY way.

What's in your Dream Bathroom?

What's In Your Dream Bathroom?

The Joy of a Clutter-Free Bathroom

The Joy of a Clutter-Free Bathroom

12 Must-Haves for a Designer's Dream Bathroom

12 Must-Haves for a Designer’s Dream Bathroom

How to Make Your Small Bathroom Stand Out

How to make your small bathroom stand out The one most common misconception that home owners have when remodeling a small space, is that the space will not look as good as it would if it were a lot larger. Having the right design team, such as Spazio LA, on your side can be key to making the most out of all of your square footage available.

When you are limited on space, it is even more important to make your remodel stand out.

Designing a small bathroom can be tricky, but a gorgeous remodel is not out of the question. Using our most recent bathroom as an example, we will take you through tricks and tips on how you can make your small bathroom stand out.

We were given the task to design a space that could be used as a guest house or media room, using a standard garage. The client wanted, a media/living space, bar, sleeping area AND a bathroom. We are talking jam packing all of these things usually found in a full size house, into a garage. After careful design, we were able to give them all of these items on the wish list and create one heck of a bathroom. This bathroom remodel alone gained over 1 million likes, views and comments on Houzz.com.

Let’s jump into some tricks in creating your very own beautiful, small bathroom.

Here we used a vanity from Signature Hardware to act as a statement piece in the bathroom.

Pro Tip: Choose your flooring wisely. The flooring can make or break your small bathroom remodel. In the pictured bathroom remodel we went with a cement tile from Cement Tile Shop, in a very bold pattern.

When dealing with limited space for a bathroom remodel, designing a custom shower may be the way to go. This shower was designed with a custom frame-less door and infinity drain. We kept the space flowing by using the same tile throughout the whole room. Using two different flooring materials or colors can break up a space and make you feel closed off.

The old school medicine cabinet and mirror is not the way to go when you want a small bathroom to pop. Look for a mirror that is unique and light fixtures outside of the norm.

Small bathrooms do not have to be boring or the least loved space in the house. For more ideas and the complete garage conversion remodel visit our page on Houzz.

Countertops that won’t break the bank or schedule

Countertops that won’t break the bank or schedule

Granite, Soapstone, Quartz, Concrete…..the list is a mile long when it comes to countertop materials. So how do you know which one is the best for you and your low maintenance needs and budget? Just close your eyes and pick one you like! No, we didn’t mean that, but with all the choices they give you it seems like that is the only option. Knowing what you are buying is important before you make the final purchase, after all changing your countertops are not as easy as changing your paint color.

If you are looking for something that will stand up to heat and last a lifetime then Granite is what you need. Granite comes in a wide variety of colors, nearly 4000 different color patterns and options are available. Granite has the 2^nd hardest rating after diamonds and is on the list of desirable counters for home buyers. Granite does require a special sealer and light maintenance – but it is well worth it.

Because of its extremely high price tag, marble is not often seen on the countertops of whole kitchens. To get the luxurious look, use it on an island or inset at a baking center if you can’t slather your whole kitchen in it. Marble requires constant maintenance, as it easily stains. Some new sealers retard staining, but we will add again that marble can be pricey.

Next we have engineered stone; it is composed of 93% quartz particles. It is available in a larger range of colors than granite and has a nonporous surface that resists scratches. Engineered stone is easy to keep up with and does not require the annual sealer like natural stone.

Ceramic tile is durable and easy to clean. Add to that inexpensive and you've got a really good choice for countertops for the average home. Because it's installed a section at a time, it can be done by most resourceful homeowners.

For a really contemporary and industrial look for your kitchen, stainless steel is a good choice. They are heat resistant and ultra-durable. Because they're constructed to your specifications, you can have a seamless countertop – this means no cracks and weird places for food to get trapped. The only down side to stainless steel countertops is the fact that they scratch easy so you can never cut on them, and they can dent. Minimal downside for this amazing look if you ask me.

There are lots of options on the market for kitchen countertops. Our list of top picks gives the pros and cons of the top choices so that you can make an educated choice when you remodel your kitchen.

For more information or help with your next remodel- Contact us @1.877.624.7772

Energy Efficient Remodels: Go Green!

Energy Efficient Remodels: Go Green!

News headlines today about energy range from home solar panels and homes that generate their own power, homes that are energy independent and recycle rain water for personal use.

You don’t have to go to extreme to be energy efficient, but making changes to your home can help save more energy AND money.

No time is better than during a remodel to make your home energy efficient. The definition of energy efficient is doing more with less power. We aren’t asking you to have a time period where you shut down the lights in your home every day; there will be no walking around with candles bumping into furniture. We are asking you to look deeper and see what other options you have to save energy while living comfortably. Who doesn’t want to see their utility bills cut down by nearly 20-40% every month?

Insulated walls and attic – If your home is not well insulated the rate of heat escaping your house during the winter and entering your home during the summer will be increased. Thus meaning you will be paying more for heating and cooling your house and wasting money. A properly insulated home will stay cooler in the summer and remain warmer during cold months.

Light bulbs- Upgrading traditional light bulbs to LEDs or CFLs light bulbs can save 25-80% energy used and last 25 times longer. If you change out light bulbs not only do you save energy but you will have to replace light bulbs less often.  Changing light bulbs may seem like a minor detail and is often missed when doing home remodeling, but any penny saved counts.

Windows- Ensure your windows are not single glazed and up to par to keep your home the right temperature. Single paned windows should be replaced to cut your air conditioning and heating bill down by 24%. Weather stripping around windows should not be cracked or leaking.

Appliances and Central Air Systems- Having two refrigerators and three deep freezers are a need or a want? If you have any old appliances that you don’t absolutely need or use to its full advantage; recycle them. New energy efficient appliances today are built and designed to save energy without sacrificing style or function. Setting your central air system to a heat and cool point can help regulate room temperature and save energy by turning on only when needed.

Updating furnace- Check the date your furnace was installed. If it was installed before 1992 research shows that it wastes 35% fuel that is uses. Have your furnace inspected for fuel utilization efficiency before you replace it.

Water heater efficiency- Start with checking the water temp setting, it should be turned down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Who takes a scolding shower anyway? By lowering the temperature on your water heater you aren’t making your water heater work harder for no reason, thus saving energy. Another way to save energy is have your water pipes insulated so that they stay warmer longer in between uses. Professional contractors can install a special pump to work on demand and save water heating energy.

Landscaping- Don’t forget about the outside. To lower the heat radiating into your home from the outdoors have shrubs and plants planted around your house. This adds as shade to your home and also a block to the heat. You can add plants that are low maintenance so that you are saving water also.

There are some simple and then more complex ways to make your home remodel more energy efficient.

Consult with a professional to ensure you are making the most out of your energy use.

Smart homes and built-in bars seen as top remodeling projects for 2017

Smart homes and built-in bars seen as top remodeling projects for 2017  

This year remodels will see more technology and custom, built-in bars! Does this mean that the future homeowner is tech savvy and great at hosting parties? We are not sure, but these remodel ideas will let you be the judge.

Smart Homes

A Smart Home is one that provides its home owners comfort, security, energy efficiency (low operating costs) and convenience at all times, regardless of whether anyone is home.

"Smart Home" is the term commonly used to define a residence that has appliances, lighting, heating, air conditioning, TVs, computers, entertainment audio & video systems, security, and camera systems that are capable of communicating with one another and can be controlled remotely by a time schedule, from any room in the home, as well as remotely from any location in the world by phone or internet. The hottest products that we are seeing used in home remodels can be seen here.

Built-in Bars

Built-in bars aren’t possible for everyone, but if you have the space and budget, a bar allows you to serve your guests like a pro. A built in bar could range in price from $200 for a fully stocked bar cart all the way to a few thousand dollars for a custom space to house your beverages. The size of your home bar is dependent on both your budget and your house. If you regularly entertain and can see yourself hosting large parties, a larger home bar where multiple "bar tenders" can be situated could be a great fit for you. However, if you are looking for a classy addition where you can have your nightly martini, then maybe you don't need a home bar that takes up half of your living room. You could always consider adding a home bar to your kitchen island or utilizing an awkward space as your bar. One of our clients took us up on utilizing space and had us design a custom built in bar to complement their kitchen we were remodeling.

The Los Angeles home design trend you need to know about

The Los Angeles home design trend you need to know about  

Los Angeles is known for the glitz and glam, and in recent news the city is taking the same route when it comes to home design. Los Angeles home remodel companies are seeing more bold and innovative designs.

Bold and Innovative

Mixing materials and colors is a bold way to leave your mark on your home design and cater to your personal style. Some of the hottest looks today, such as the blending of unfinished industrial materials with modern floors and cabinets, would have been considered outlandish only a few years ago. We have learned over the years that matching everything precisely is not the way to go, not all the time at least.

Utility Meets Swag

We want things to be functional and make sense in our own homes, this is yet the biggest challenge Los Angeles remodel and interior design firms are faced with. Parents understand this, they want a home to work and look good – but be safe and kid friendly at the same time. Opting for materials that are durable and adding in those that are more for sparkle can create a space that never lacks taste. Design is evolving as life changes take place; therefore our designs are becoming stylish AND functional for your everyday life.

Built In Comfort

Another home design trend that is buzzing in Los Angeles is Built-Ins! This does not mean add some built in book cases around your TV in your living room remodel and call it a day. This means that wine cooler you have been dreaming about or that espresso machine will be custom built into your remodel. They will now be designed into the remodel and even save space. This is great news for those who lack space or just want more for their LA remodel.

For design tips and your free in home consultation, contact us today!

Make YOUR master bedroom the ultimate retreat

Make YOUR master bedroom the ultimate retreat

There are so many beautiful master bedroom remodels that we can’t help but envy.  Having a dream master retreat of your own is not an idea to far-fetched.  Making smart design and decorating choices can help you achieve a great master bedroom to enjoy. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to get the perfect master bedroom; we can give you smart décor tricks that any budget can handle.

Think of these questions to ask before you start designing:

• Do you want your bedroom to be a private restful sanctuary? Or multi-functioning space? Besides sleeping, are there other activities you wish to do like reading, watching TV, working on your computer, talking on the telephone, resting near a warm fireplace or exercising? Do you need a nursery within this space? – Considering what you want the room to be able to do will help you decide how to design it. A great place for a reading nook is near a large window where ample light is available. A fireplace is one way to add glamour and romance to the master suite. Go with an electric or wall mounted fireplace if you can’t find it in your budget for a full fireplace to be installed. Tip: add a faux fireplace with an array of candles rather than logs!

• What kind of lighting will you need to perform daily tasks like dressing, make-up or reading? Do you want to be able to control the brightness or prefer simple on and off functions?- Having overhead lighting is a must, but the option of tableside lamps is perfect for those who like to read in bed or want to dim the lights before getting shut eye. If there is not enough natural light in your room use sheer curtains to play up as much light as you can. Also positioning mirrors to reflect light can give you a larger brighter room.

• Is your storage and closet space large enough for your clothing? Do you need extra space for makeup or accessories?  – If you have the luxury designing a closet, you can never go wrong with His and Her closets. Having enough storage and separate closest can increase function and help hinder arguments over space. Keep in mind that contractors do have the capability to design you or your lady the perfect vanity built custom into your master retreat! What women wouldn’t love having a personal make-up vanity?

• Do you want to have extra seating for relaxing and reading? Your own designated space to be a book work? – A popular trend these days is having a comfy chair near a fireplace and bookcase to create your own reading sanctuary. You can design your room to have a sectioned off area for reading or you can create a divider with a bookcase or room screen. Why not even throw custom accordion walls by Nana Walls into your space to divide it when you want and connect it when you want the open space?

• What kind of color scheme will you need to achieve your own level of comfort and relaxation? Do you want bold and bright or calm and peaceful? – Choosing a bright color scheme may cause problems relaxing at night, think of soothing tones that will create a peaceful look. If you have a large room to decorate art work and hanging pictures is a great idea. Extra Large art work is great for a large wall! It makes the room elegant and creates a show piece.  If you can’t fit a large piece of art into your budget you can achieve a bold look by hanging multiple, uniform sized picture frames that have simple artwork up on that wall. Soft fabrics and faux fur throws and rugs can instantly create a restful retreat. Don’t shy away from mismatched nightstands, having two different nightstands can give partners their own bedside style. You don’t always have to match everything.

If you are tight on budget – update your bedding set. It’s a great way to change the feel of any room and give your room new life.

Remodel Your Home Before Selling

Remodel your home before selling

Remodeling a home takes time, energy and most of all, money.  This would make the idea of remodeling prior to selling your home seem illogical. However, the other side to look at this from is the point that the home will sell faster as well as increase the property value.  Not all remodel projects are created equal nor will they give you the return you are hoping for, unless planned out properly. Always speak with your real estate agent before starting remodels if you are in the market to sell.

            What projects make the most sense prior to selling?

Adding a Bathroom

Installing an additional bathroom, particularly if your home only has one, is a cost-conscious investment. Many homeowners are particularly picky when it comes to the number of bathrooms. After all, no one wants to fight over a bathroom or be rushed to get ready for work.  Find the space for a second bathroom by scrutinizing under-used spaces in your home, such as guest rooms or large closets. Half-baths require at least 18 square feet of space, according to MoneyCrashers.com, while a full bath with a stand-up shower needs at least 30 square feet. Adding a full bathroom with a tub requires at least 35 square feet. You’ll recoup nearly 55 percent of the cost of adding a mid-range bathroom and add more than $20,000 to the value of the home.

Adding a Steel Entry Door

Installing a steel front-entry door is the number one project in the Cost vs. Value report, with homeowners recouping more than 85 percent of the cost. A steel door adds security to the home and increases energy efficiency. It’s also more cost-efficient than adding a fiberglass door. The fiberglass variety adds approximately $1,800 to the home value, while steel doors add around $1,000. A new door also boosts curb appeal, especially a large custom door.

Adding an Outdoor Deck

Installing a deck adds square footage to your home, which increases the value. A wooden deck is more budget-friendly than using composite materials; however, a composite deck adds more value to the home. You’ll regain 77 percent of the cost of a wooden deck and 67 percent of a composite deck, but the latter adds $10,000 of value while the former adds just over $7,000. This not only adds value, but makes better use of your outdoor space. Here is a prime example of functionality adding more value to your property than monetary value. As the times turn families are spending more time at home, so we may as well create more space to enjoy and entertain in.

Adding a Second Story

Building another story on your home is undoubtedly one of the most-expensive additions you can undertake -- an average of $152,000, BUT it also adds nearly $100,000 of value to the home. Before beginning construction, contact the local zoning office to ensure you’re legally allowed to add another story. Some codes have height restrictions. If you can’t build it outward, build it upward!

Adding New Windows

Adding new windows to your home does more than update its appearance. New windows make your home more comfortable by eliminating drafts and save you money on energy bills by reducing heating and cooling expenses because of better insulation properties. Ecofriendly Buyers recognize this value and will, on average, increase what they pay for your home by more than 81 percent of the cost of vinyl windows and 79.5 percent of the cost of more expensive wood windows.

Adding To Your Kitchen

Adding more counter space, cabinetry, and appliances to your existing kitchen pays off, but keep in mind that even moderate changes can recoup a majority of your initial expense. While a major remodel pays back almost 76 percent of what you spent, a minor remodeling pays back 91.5 percent of its cost. Adding a center island, upgraded cabinetry and a dishwasher -- when your kitchen never had one -- can make using your kitchen much more enjoyable. Adding only a pantry will create desirable storage. There is much to change when a full kitchen remodel isn’t possible.

Countertops without a hefty price tag

Countertops that won’t break !

Granite, Soapstone, Quartz, Concrete…..the list is a mile long when it comes to countertop materials. So how do you know which one is the best for you and your low maintenance needs and budget? Just close your eyes and pick one you like! No, we didn’t mean that, but with all the choices they give you it seems like that is the only option. Knowing what you are buying is important before you make the final purchase, after all changing your countertops are not as easy as changing your paint color.

If you are looking for something that will stand up to heat and last a lifetime then Granite is what you need. Granite comes in a wide variety of colors, nearly 4000 different color patterns and options are available. Granite has the 2^nd hardest rating after diamonds and is on the list of desirable counters for home buyers. Granite does require a special sealer and light maintenance – but it is well worth it.

Because of its extremely high price tag, marble is not often seen on the countertops of whole kitchens. To get the luxurious look, use it on an island or inset at a baking center if you can’t slather your whole kitchen in it. Marble requires constant maintenance, as it easily stains. Some new sealers retard staining, but we will add again that marble can be pricey.

Next we have engineered stone; it is composed of 93% quartz particles. It is available in a larger range of colors than granite and has a nonporous surface that resists scratches. Engineered stone is easy to keep up with and does not require the annual sealer like natural stone.

Ceramic tile is durable and easy to clean. Add to that inexpensive and you've got a really good choice for countertops for the average home. Because it's installed a section at a time, it can be done by most resourceful homeowners.

For a really contemporary and industrial look for your kitchen, stainless steel is a good choice. They are heat resistant and ultra-durable. Because they're constructed to your specifications, you can have a seamless countertop – this means no cracks and weird places for food to get trapped. The only down side to stainless steel countertops is the fact that they scratch easy so you can never cut on them, and they can dent. Minimal downside for this amazing look if you ask me.

There are lots of options on the market for kitchen countertops. Our list of top picks gives the pros and cons of the top choices so that you can make an educated choice when you remodel your kitchen.

For more information or help with your next remodel- Contact us @1.877.624.7772

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.

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.

Top 10 Reasons to Remodel Your Kitchen

Top 10 Reasons to Remodel Your 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.

7 Remodel Must Haves You Shouldn’t Live Without

7 Remodel Must Haves You Shouldn’t Live Without 1. Satin brass.

Say the word Brass and you instantly think of an old musty house with out of date fixtures. Say the word Satin Brass and you think of 2017! Satin Brass is more muted or warm than its brother polished Brass. You can pair any color of the rainbow with Satin or Brushed Brass, and this is one key that interior designers are loving.

2. Voice-activated assistants.

As the world is more driven to the technology side of life, there is a wave of voice-activated assistants to help out in the house. Amazon launched a device that allows you to ask “Alexa” what the weather is or to play a song from Spotify. The devices, placed throughout your home, are always listening in somewhat of a dormant state. Say the activation phrase, and the device fires up and awaits your command. Almost like having your very own personal assistant for a fraction of the cost.

3. Vanity conversions.

 The hunt is over for a premade vanity that fits your budget and space needed. Vanity conversions and upcycles are taking over. Many homeowners are finding vintage dressers or filing cabinets and remaking them into a custom vanity. This in turn saves money, the environment and creates a one of a kind piece that will never be seen in another home.

4. Greenery.

Pantone’s Color of the Year will be a must have color this new year. Use this bright green as an accent or as a focal point, to refresh or reconnect a space in your remodel. See our blog for Greenery tips.

5. Splurging on laundry rooms.

No longer are we seeing washers and dryers stuck in the garage. Machines that work as hard and as much deserve a luxury space to call their own. Home owners are creating elegant and chic laundry rooms in convenient places. Good Bye are the days of dragging laundry half way through the house. Opt for a custom laundry room to make this chore seem more like a hobby.

6. Outdoor-feeling indoor showers.

Outdoor showers give you the feeling of being at one with nature, but in most places around the country this isn’t doable based on the seasons. Interior designers are changing this, and giving you the same feeling as an outdoor shower, inside your bathroom. To achieve this outdoor feeling, showers are being laid out in front of a large window that looks into a private garden or hillside. You can get special tint for your window if this still freaks you out on the privacy scale.

7. Counter-depth fridges.

Designers are leaning toward a more space saving look by utilizing counter depth refrigerators. This means home owners can now enjoy a kitchen without a fridge intruding on walkway space. Not only do these newer counter-depth fridges take less space, they also give your kitchen a more sleek style.

How to Design & Decorate with Pantone’s Color of the Year

How to Design & Decorate with Pantone’s Color of the Year The announcement of Pantone’s color of the year choice creates a new color craze for designers and washes the old colors away for a fresh slate for the New Year.  After all a new year deserves a new color, right?

There may have been a sense of panic or disbelief this year when the choice color was publicized.  The name of the 2017 Color of the Year speaks for itself, Greenery. Oh wow, green? Yes we are talking a yellowish green color that evokes the first day of spring. Greenery is such a color that matches that of a fresh leaf on the stem of a flower reaching towards the sun. Never has there been such a green of this shade to make it into the leading for color of the year, let alone be picked as 2017 Color of the Year.

In years prior Emerald and Turquoise were shades in the spot light, ones that were more subtle than were bold.  This year, Greenery will take center stage.

Greenery is the color that stands for refreshment, rebirth, rejuvenation and a re-connection.  This is what the world seems to need this New Year with the turn of a new president and life changes, or so the color world seemed to think for us. Now that we are past the shock factor of such a color for 2017, let’s talk about how to use this in your home and remodel design – without looking tacky.

Don't feel pressured to paint your whole house Greenery, be all means there are ways to incorporate the color without going that far- unless you want to.

Add pops of Pantone's Color of the Year by switching out your old curtains, or throw pillows with ones of Greenery.

Paint the back of your book case Greenery, or opt for a non permanent choice by using a shade of Greenery contact paper to line the back.

There is nothing wrong with using the bold green as an accent, versus a center focus.

For more ways to design and decorate, check back for more blog issues.

HERO Financing helps homeowners become more Eco-friendly

HERO Financing helps homeowners become more Eco-friendly You are fully aware that your energy bill is too high and that your home is not water efficient, but you just can’t afford the eco-friendly remodel you need. At least not until now, we are here to introduce the HERO program.

HERO, Home Energy Renovation Opportunity, is the number one efficiency program in the U.S. Offering 100% financing on the cost and installation of all eligible products at a low fixed rate, and with flexible payment terms. Spazio LA has partnered with the HERO Program because we want to make a difference with water and energy consumption. In our efforts to protect the resources we currently have, we are now offering homeowners this great opportunity.

What does the HERO program mean to Spazio LA?

Our participation in the HERO program means homeowners will be able to afford remodels and renovations in Los Angeles and all counties active in the program. Thousands of people will be able to make a difference in the effort to save energy, water and use renewable resources. Thousands of people will be able to afford to renovate and save money every single month on utility bills. We have gone through rigorous through test and inspections to become a qualified HERO participant, just to show you how important this program is to us here at Spazio LA.

This means that more homes will be equipped with water efficient toilets, faucets, and shower heads. More homes will have the luxury of proper heating and air conditioning that will also save energy, and more homes will use the power of solar to heat their pools and water tanks. Saving money on your monthly bills is real, and we are happy to help.

How does the HERO program work?

The program offers 100% financing, also the payments are made directly through the homeowner’s property taxes, as often as you make the property tax payment – not monthly. The financing can be carried for 5-20 year terms.  Since the financing is paid into the property, 100% of the cost of the remodel is tax deductible.

HERO offers financing in over 50 product categories including, but not limited to:

1. Exterior doors and windows

2. Central Air, Mini Split Heat & Air

3. Attic insulation

4. Ventilation Fans

5. Furnace

6. Solar panels

The list goes on; there are numerous eco-friendly upgrades that are 100% covered by the HERO Program. If there isn’t a product on the list that you are interested in, you can call the HERO Program to talk to a specialist to see if the product will qualify. https://www.heroprogram.com/products

Contact Spazio LA today to see if the HERO program will work for your remodel. 1-877-624-7772