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How to Transform Your Bathroom into a Spa

When homeowners walk into their master bathroom, they are often reminded of the laundry list of “things to upgrade.” Have you considered transforming your bathroom to an oasis or spa? There are design build bathroom remodeling companies, like Wineteer, that can bring your spa vision to life. According to houzz.com, Nearly 9 in 10 homeowners (86%) change the style of their bathroom during a remodel, and the most popular style for the second year in a row is transitional (23%). Contemporary style has slightly edged out modern this year (16% versus 15%, respectively), followed by traditional (11%) and farmhouse (5%).

Homeowners should take advantage of the design and build expertise that home remodeling experts hold. There are many benefits of a home bathroom remodel, so let’s explore options for an oasis spa look and feel! 

Benefits of Spa Bathrooms

Some of the main benefits of having spa-like bathrooms are:

Health Benefit

How to Transform Your Bathroom into a Spa Hot spas offer many health benefits. Your body will be detoxed, any muscle pain will be relieved, good hormones will be released by your brain, and so on. According to Spainc.com, a spa bathroom remodel can bring many health benefits, including sleep benefits, hormonal benefits, and even mental health wellness benefits. 

Stress Relief

A bathroom spa will immediately allow you to relax. The intent of a bathroom remodel is to fit your stage of life. If you have possible aging in place modifications (bar handles, lowering cabinet, larger bathroom door opening, etc), a bathroom remodel can relieve your stress. A  bathroom remodel can help redeem all the negative effects like stress, tension, depression, anxiety, etc.

master bathroom remodel

Resale Value

Bathroom remodeling will definitely increase the property or resale value. Whenever potential clients or renters see the cozy spa-like bathroom, they won’t mind spending more cash to grab the opportunity for the immediate relaxation look and fee. 

Related: Check out these ideas for spa-like bathroom remodels. 

Ideas to Turn Bathroom into Spa

Here are a few simple, yet effective ideas that can turn your bathroom into a spa:

Greenery

Placing plants in your bathroom is the simplest way to transform the space into a spa. You can place the plants on the floor, on countertops or hanging from the ceiling. Some also like to keep fresh eucalyptus as it offers a soothing smell to relax just like you can do in a spa. You may question what type of plant to add into your bathroom… check out this article for help selecting the right option!  

The bathroom featured below is one that Wineteer completed for an Overland Park resident. The mix of natural light and greenery allows a serene and oasis feel. The simplicity and clean look bring a tranquility when entering the bathroom. 

Natural Components

Spa feels more authentic when it includes natural elements like natural stone, marble, and different types of wooden compartments. The vintage look will take you to a place far from the urban pressures.

Dim Lights

Low-lit lights or sconce lights are usually used in bathroom spas and you can install them in your bathroom to bring in the vibe. Usually, too many lights lead to unrelaxed nerves, that’s why dim lights are used to avoid the light pollution effects. 

Big Steam Shower

Steam showers are great to relieve stress and feel more refreshing. Specifically, if the shower head is oversized, it offers strong water pressure close to your body that helps in detoxing therapeutically just like a spa.

Floor Heating

Why Consider Heated Floors in Your Bathroom RemodelSince most of us use tiles for our bathroom floors, it feels so chilly, specifically in cold winters. At that moment stepping onto the floor will feel like stepping on sharp pins. Even bathmats won’t help much in those harsh colds.

You can install radiant floor heating for your bathroom, it will be both comfortable and luxurious. The bathroom will feel more like a spa this way, and nothing beats hot spa days in winter. Wineteer has an article outlining the benefits of heated flooring when completing a bathroom remodel: https://wineteerconstruction.com/why-consider-heated-floors-in-your-bathroom-remodel/

Comfy Tub

One of the most important parts of turning your bathroom into a spa is having a comfortable soaking tub. Here are some free-standing tubs to consider: https://wineteerconstruction.com/5-best-freestanding-bathtub-ideas-for-a-stylish-upgrade/

Make sure the tub is big enough to relax comfortably. Also, place the tub at a prominent point in your bathroom as it will give a spa-like vibe whenever you enter the space.

Tub Window

bathroom with large tub You can place your tub in front of a big window that offers a natural view, it’ll provide a tranquil ambience a spa provides. If there’s no window in your bathroom, consider adding one into your bathroom remodel. 

Elegant Backdrop

If you have a sophisticated mural on one side of the tub, it will feel like a luxurious museum with a relaxing atmosphere to soak in. You can put simple minimalistic art to an elegant backdrop that goes well with the overall theme of the bathroom.

Plush Towels

Invest in good towels! Plush towels have a luxurious comfy feeling. You may even consider a towel warmer for an extra spa look and feel!

Paint Cabinets

One of the ways to make the bathroom more spa-like is to paint the cabinets to a moody sophisticated color. Do you enjoy crisp white, mindful grays, light greens, or tans? There are ways to incorporate colors into cabinetry in a tasteful way. 

Open Shelves

Adding open shelving in your bathroom remodel can be a good addition to turning the bathroom into a spa. The open shelving will encourage you to keep the clean and crisp feel. 

Hidden Electric Outlets

All the cords of your electric bathroom tools will make the space chaotic and unsafe. You can install the outlets inside the vanity drawer and cabinet to keep the tools and their cords inside. This way the cabinet will be decluttered and the washroom will feel more like a shooting spa.

Earthy Tone

The spa makes you more connected with nature, and that’s why it’s best to incorporate earthy colors when remodeling the bathroom.

Elegant Curtains

Adding elegant-looking curtains on your bathroom window can limit the sunlight, ensure privacy and also add a polished touch to the space.

No matter what ideas you choose to implement when considering How to Transform Your Bathroom into a Spa, it will surely make your bathroom a small private spa. Professional like Wineteer Construction are here to handle your spa bathroom remodeling questions and considerations. Reach out today to discuss your design ideas! 913-717-6325 or https://wineteerconstruction.com/contact-us/

Essential Permits for Your Bathroom & Kitchen Remodel

Usually, different states or cities require different types of permits and licenses for home renovation projects. In some places, you can do many big remodeling projects even without any permission from the local authority, but in others, you’ll need specific permits, even for a few changes in the kitchen, bathroom, or any other part of your house. You should even consider your neighborhood Homeowners Association, as there are specific requirements for remodeling or additions as well. 

RELATED: If you’re in the Kansas City area, check out the latest permit requirements here: https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/city-planning-development/permits-division

If you’re in the Johnson County, Kansas area, here is information on the permit process: https://www.jocogov.org/department/building-codes/building-permits/residential-remodel-permit

kitchen remodeling floorplan

If you’re not working with a home remodeling contractor, you will be responsible for pulling the permits yourself. There are many advantages for working with a design build firm, such as Kansas City’s Wineteer Construction, because they are familiar with each municipality’s requirements and process.  Some people avoid getting the permits just to avoid the time and cost spent on getting them. However, not getting the permits will be more disastrous. Let’s learn more about it from this article.

Do You Really Need Licenses and Permits for Remodeling?

Continue to explore the Essential Permits for Your Bathroom & Kitchen Remodel, if you remodel a kitchen or bathroom that needs necessary permits or licenses, the result can be devastating both practically and legally. 

Also, licenses and permits are needed to make sure the remodeling works and results are safe for everyone during the remodeling and after the completion of the work. If you want to resell the property and the remodeling doesn’t have the required permits, it will lead to complications, and potential buyers will refuse to be involved with the problematic property.

Unpermitted works also won’t cover any insurance, so you’ll need to spend more on the repairs in the future. Moreover, future renovations, demolitions, and obtaining necessary future requirements will be more challenging as you’ll have illegal records. That’s why it’s really important to obtain licenses and permits for even small remodeling projects when necessary.

Licenses and Permits for Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling

In this section, we’ve categorized the types of licenses and permits you’ll need to renovate your bathrooms or kitchens with different issues.

Mechanical

Bathrooms and kitchens usually have many in-built and separate appliances, including HVAC systems. If your remodeling project needs to change the systems, like how much power they’ll use, or add more mechanical parts, you’ll need mechanical permits and licenses.

electrical for home remodel Electrical

Usually, most renovations need changes to electrical wiring, fixtures, or outlets for any lighting or appliances. And any change to electrical items requires electrical licenses and permits

Plumbing

Often, bathroom and kitchen renovations require altering the plumbing items like sinks, toilets, showers, new lines or faucets, etc. For these reasons, you’d need to get plumbing permits and licenses for most of your renovations. https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/city-planning-development/electrical-plumbing-and-mechanical-permits

Building

You’ll need building or structural permits and licenses when the bathroom or kitchen renovation requires visual and structural changes in the building. For example, adding or removing windows, doors, walls, roofs, etc. kitchen and bathroom remodeling permits

Demolition

If the bathroom or kitchen renovation work needs to do demolition of any part of the building, you’ll need special permits for the demolition works, for possible noise, to park demolition trucks in the neighborhood, and many more depending on the place you’re living.

Landscaping

You’ll need landscaping permits and licenses if you want to do any renovation work that can change the landscape on your property. For example, if you have a separate kitchen or washroom in your backyard and want to cut down any trees for it or add fences or decks for them, you’ll need permission for these changes. Check out this article, 10 Landscaping Trends to Watch in 2024, for ways to maximize your home’s curb appeal. 

Environmental

Sometimes the changes in your bathroom and kitchen can relate to environmental concerns, that’s why you’ll need permits to use different materials or appliances or change anything. Many materials, like asbestos, paints, boards, etc., can contain harsh chemicals that can lead to potential hazards. That’s why it’s really important to get environmental permits.

Accessibility

In some cases, you’ll need permits to improve the accessibility feature in your house, specifically in bathrooms, to make things easier for toddlers, the elderly, and disabled people. For accessibility features, there are specific codes, licenses, and permits, so ensure they get one, especially if the kitchen and bathrooms are open to the public. 

How to Get Remodeling Permits and Licenses

Continuing on the Essential Permits for Your Bathroom & Kitchen Remodel insight, this process can seem a bit complex and time-consuming if you’re new to this. However, if you follow these general steps, things will be easier:

  • Contact the professionals and local permit office to become familiar with the required rules, regulations, and renovation licenses for that area. If you have a design build remodeling company, similar to Kansas City’s Wineteer Construction, they will help you along the process. 
  • Create a detailed final plan on what type of work you’ll do with the help of the contractor to enlist and finalize what type of licenses and permits are needed to finish the renovation project successfully.
  • Get the necessary application, papers, and forms to obtain the permits from the local authority and submit them with accurate and necessary information. Also, make sure to provide all the documents and fees properly to avoid future complications. You can consider keeping copies of the documents for future reference.
  • You’ll need some time for the documentation to get reviewed and approved. Don’t just wait; plan for the next steps and prepare the site as the authority may want to inspect the area.
  • In case the permissions for the renovation project need essential reports on engineering tests, do the tests and provide authority with reports. You can also ask them for a representative to see the test result firsthand for quick decisions.
  • Negotiating and navigating through this process can be a bit complex, so you can get a contractor that offers to do this tedious work of gathering essential permits for your remodeling projects. You can just inspect the process when you’ve got time.

If you contact a reputed and experienced local contractor, they’ll inform you about all the licenses and permits required for your specific projects. It’ll be better if you hire a bathroom or kitchen specialist, as they usually have specific licenses and permits ready for many projects. However, to avoid more complexity, ensure the contractor you’re hiring has real licenses, not fakes.  If you’re in the Kansas City area, reach out to Wineteer for a kitchen, bathroom, whole home, or aging in place remodel. 

Functional Bathroom and Laundry Remodel

bathroom remodel For this Overland Park, Kansas bathroom remodel, the homeowners wanted the laundry room closer to the master bathroom. To accomplish this, the Wineteer team designed and built out a room off of the master bathroom and closet areas. This new expansion allowed for an opening of additional space and helped the homeowner gain the space for the laundry room. The laundry room was designed to fit a front-loading washer and dryer with a countertop directly above the two appliances. This allowed the homeowners space and room to transfer loads of laundry and fold the laundry on top of the machines. This was a “must-have” that the clients wanted due to the proximity to the master closet.

Maximize the space in your laundry room

Wineteer’s team also installed a small cabinet to house laundry detergent and cleaning stainless steel faucets and fixtures in bathroom products so they are hidden from the standard view. We also elected to add a rod for hanging clothes above the appliances in case the clothes are not yet ready to be transferred to the master closet, or require air drying. The laundry room can also be separated (closed off) with a simple accessible-friendly door. The new layout on this bathroom and laundry remodel allows for more intentional space, functional countertops, and efficiencies. 

Endless shower options for a bathroom remodel

In the master bathroom remodel portion of the project, Wineteer’s design team had a clear vision from the client. The team removed a built-in tub and replaced it with a free-standing oval-shaped tub. accent tile in shower caddy and panel in grays and greens The tub is centered below the window (which has rain glass to allow for privacy and natural light), creating a focal point in the bathroom. We also transitioned the shower from a standard shower with a lip to a barrier free shower and made the shower feel even larger with a frameless half-wall of glass.

Barrier-free showers utilized for aging in place modifications

There are many reasons why homeowners are opting for barrier-free showers, one of which is the ease of aging in place modifications. The risk of falling is greatly reduced when the ledge of the shower is removed. The ability to roll in a wheelchair, or walker, is ideal for a barrier-free shower, allowing the homeowners to live in the home unassisted for a much longer time. For the wainscot around the tub and shower area we used a large format 12 x 36 inch tile. This embossed tile levels up the space for a timeless look.

RELATED: The 15 Best Tile for 2023 custom vanity in bright white in en suite bathroom

In the new barrier-free shower, Wineteer placed a border of smaller, unique tiles through the space vertically to house the rain shower head and inset shower caddies. This pop of color adds dimension and texture to the space and coordinates with the penny tile used on the shower floor. Fixtures in the shower are all chrome, matching the chrome shower handle and the chrome tub fixtures.

New cabinets can elevate your bathroom remodel

The bathroom cabinets are painted white, both brightening the space, and elevating the look. The homeowners decided on a unique design choice – to add a center tower cabinet between the two vanities. This creates additional storage for the vanity and sink area, and the ability to put toiletries behind a door and not on the counters. All cabinet doors are inset to provide the clean and seamless look you see here. The countertops are quartz and hardware and drawer pulls are chrome. The tile on the floor of the bathroom is a ceramic tile that mimics a Calcutta marble. window above freestanding tub in white

This was an amazing project for the Wineteer team to work on with our long-time clients. But it didn’t stop here! In addition to this bathroom remodel, we had the chance to completely renovate their kitchen and move their laundry to their en suite. This whole home remodel provided a relief to the chore of laundry, and the ability to fully enjoy both the kitchen and bathroom! Check out more of our bathroom remodeling projects here for some inspiration! 

Check out this recent bathroom remodel project that we completed in Lenexa, KS! 

Lee’s Summit Bathroom Remodel

When many homeowners think of the one space they want to remodel, it’s usually the kitchen or the bathroom. At Wineteer, we oftentimes work with clients that are eager to create a bathroom oasis of their dreams, and are surprised at the options for design and finishes that they can experience with the right team. When you have a designer in-house, Wineteer’s clients can experience custom renderings and will have all of their design questions answered by the same person, the President and owner Nick McIntyre. 

Design-build bathroom remodels 

Other Kansas City bathroom remodeling companies have a national name that can be easily recognizable, but will come with a less than individualized experience. These nationally operated bathroom remodeling companies are accustomed to finishing hundreds of bathrooms each year. A design-build bathroom remodeling company like Wineteer selects a handful of projects to complete each year. Our team takes each project extremely seriously, and treats the clients like family.  Let’s check out this Lee’s Summit bathroom remodel project that we completed for a client. 

Lee’s Summit bathroom remodel utilizes natural light and barrier-free shower

This specific bathroom remodel was completed in Lee’s Summit, MO. The bathroom remodel was intended to modernize the space, enlarge the shower, add in some aging in place modifications, and widen the entrance. This shower replaced an old whirlpool tub and provided enough space to be able to eliminate the need for a door at the entrance.  The window in the shower offers a dramatic element of natural light and cool architecture.  The etched glass panels that replaced the window sashes are a nice feature as well.

Given the size of the shower, our clients wanted a large format tile to highlight the space. Accent tile rows complement the wall and floor tile.  The base is barrier-free, of course, and the water is channeled to the central drain by virtue of the positive slope built into the Wedi system material that it is constructed of.  Wedi products, incidentally, have a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty.   

Modernizing your bathroom will result in increased resale values

The modernization of this space allowed for the clients to remodel for life and make minor adjustments now to ease their trip hazard concerns. If you’re in the Lee’s Summit area and want to explore the leading bathroom remodeling pro, reach out today

 

Remodel a Space to Make a Huge Impact

Houzz.com recently published its 2023 U.S. Houzz & Home Study: Renovation Trends, which revealed that many homeowners are remodeling for the long run, intending to stay in their homes for 11+ years. Nearly 3 in 5 homeowners remodeled or decorated in 2022 (58% and 57%, respectively),and nearly half made repairs (48%). The top locations for interior residential renovations are the kitchen and bathroom. Also, another increasingly popular renovation is aging in place modifications to make the home safe for the aging homeowners.

The below chart shows the frequency of renovations from 2020, 2021, and 2022. If you notice, the trend is increasing each year for interior room remodels, home system upgrades (plumbing, electricity, HVAC, etc), home exterior upgrades, outdoor upgrades (patio, porches, pool areas, outdoor kitchen, deck, etc), and home additions. 
Frequency of Renovation Activity and Number of Projects Among Homeowners Who Renovated

Hiring Home Remodeling Professionals

Not all home remodeling companies offer in-house design services. However, companies like Wineteer offer in-house design services from the company owner. The design element of the process is critical for the homeowner to visualize the remodel. 

While homeowners hired specialty service providers most frequently in 2022 (46%), construction professionals —such as general contractors and kitchen or bathroom remodelers — came in a close second (44%). The share of homeowners who relied on construction pros grew by 6 percentage points (from 38% in 2021), as did the share relying on design-related pros (growing from 20% in 2021 to 26% in 2022). – https://www.houzz.com/magazine/2023-u-s-houzz-and-home-study-renovation-trends-stsetivw-vs~166887998 

If you’re trying to explore a new home remodeling project, let’s talk. Contact us for a free consultation.

Home Remodeling Challenges: Tackling the 14 Big Concerns

When renovating your home, it’s important to make sure that it’s done properly. The renovation process itself is complex and costly, and if it’s not done properly, you are constantly in the “fixing” mode, which is expensive and exhausting. To ensure your home remodeling project is completed properly, you should be aware of common mistakes regarding the home renovation process to avoid any easily-avoided mistakes, and hopefully save from costly errors along the way. It’s important to know what the usual remodeling concerns are in order to make a proper plan, and to take necessary preventive measures. Let’s get to know the Home Remodeling Challenges: Tackling the 14 Big Concerns.

Local Building Codes

Building codes are a set of rules that you must follow when constructing or remodeling your house. These codes are there to ensure the safety and comfortability of everyone, including your neighborhood and environment. And if you break the codes, you will be punished, fined, or they can even demolish your house!

You can’t just randomly check some codes and plan accordingly, as the codes vary from palace to place and can change every year. That’s why it’s crucial to contact a local professional who has good knowledge about the current building codes. Wineteer Construction partners with Kansas City residents throughout each step of the home remodeling project. This begins with the right design and build concept, then of course logistically abiding by all codes and ordinances.  View the Kansas City codes here: https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/city-planning-development/codes-and-ordinances

Unrealistic Budget

Without proper budgeting, the final cost can be a lot higher than what you expected it to be. Specifically, when things go wrong or there are mistakes in the process, the cost can vary a lot. When you’re dealing with multiple parts in a home remodel, any mistake can be costly and timely. Even if you hire professionals for cost estimation, they can’t always identify all the potential problems beforehand. That’s why it’s necessary to plan a realistic budget adding at least 10% extra to the expected initial cost.

RELATED: Remodeling Strong, Despite Postponements, Houzz Finds

Vague or No Research

Sometimes people start remodeling without doing any research at all; they start the whole process with just a single random idea or some furniture they like that makes them want to renovate. But it’s important to do thorough research, as your expectations may not be feasible for you. When residents find the right partnership with a home design builder, the ambiguity fades because the contractor handles each step. As with Wineteer Construction, their team handles every single step of the way after the homeowner approves the design, products, timeline, and budget. 

Contractor or Manager-Related Concerns

Many of your construction or remodeling problems can arise because of contractors or managers. For example, if you don’t hire a contractor at all but manage everything by yourself to save costs, then it can be a big mess. They are experts in their work and know what should be done to fix everything.

However, you shouldn’t hire random, cheap contractors; make sure they have the necessary licenses and experience and provide insurance. Also, don’t be careless after hiring and leave everything to them; supervise them regularly.

Not Hiring Designer

If you think you already hired a contractor, so you don’t need to hire anyone else, then you’re so wrong. A contractor can’t design or plan your remodeling project; a designer can. And if you don’t hire a good designer, your remodeled house or apartment won’t look very appealing. So, what’s the point of remodeling if they aren’t attractive enough?

No Plan, Permit or Contract

Even if you hire a contractor and designer, the remodeling process isn’t secured yet. You need to make an agreement that describes the scope of work, materials used, procurement methods, work and payment schedule, and other important issues with the entities related to the work.

And before signing the agreement and contract, you must make a thorough plan for the renovation process, considering all the small details. Also, you may require permits from the local or government sectors.

DIY Everything

Many people try doing renovations all by themselves just because they get confident enough after seeing home improvement DIY shows. But in reality, everything needs experienced hands to get done perfectly. In most cases, trying out remodeling by yourself can make things worse, and you may need to hire professionals and spend more than the service amount if you do try it out first. There are so many factors that come into play when it comes to your home remodeling project. 

Buying Furniture Too Early

You need to buy any kind of furniture or home decor just before installation. When you do remodeling, often the plan changes more or less, as do the measurements of different areas. That’s why when you buy appliances, furniture, or any other materials before the final measurements, you may need to buy them again. 

Cheap Materials

Cheap materials and furnishings are tempting to consider purchasing, because you can buy a lot of them for an inexpensive amount, but they aren’t durable enough to last long. You may need to replace them soon as they break or their color fades.

Ignoring Details

The remodeling process is huge; you need to change most things, and that’s why you usually focus on the bigger picture. But you need to consider every detail, as everything can cause potential damage.

Ignoring Curb Appeal

Curb appeal, or the visual attractiveness of your house as seen by others while standing in front of the property, is important when you’re remodeling. You may think the outside doesn’t matter much if you can remodel the interior so well. But it’s a big mistake to ignore the curb appeal, as even if the interior looks good, the curb appeal can affect potential buyers and decrease their budget.

Ignoring Safety Risks

Ignoring safety risks is a huge concern regarding remodeling your house. It will not only slow down the remodeling process, but it can also physically harm you or any other people and cause damage to the house or any furniture. Make sure to always wear protective gear while working, keep a first-aid kit by hand, and inspect frequently.

No Plan for Residents

If the remodeling process isn’t just a room or a small portion of the house, then it can be very disruptive for the occupants, as bigger renovation projects take a long time to finish. If you think about a kitchen remodel, your daily meal schedule is disrupted. So before you start the renewal process, make sure to arrange sleeping quarters, resting places, food preparation places and toilets for the people and pets in your house. It’s important to have open communication with your home remodeling company to have an understanding of the timeline. 

Project Changes

After your home renovation project begins, any change can cost more time and money, and sometimes the changes aren’t even possible. That’s why you should consider every aspect before planning and stick to the plan. 

The remodeling process can go smoothly if you hire a professional renovation team. Even if it seems costlier, the perfectly finished new look is worth it all. Moreover, it increases the property value, so you can easily get a profit from it, or any extra expenditure from mistakes can be saved.

11 Kitchen Remodeling Ideas: Elevate Your Home for the Holidays

On holidays, family members gather and celebrate time shared together. Usually it is tight quarters, which is part of the holiday fun! However, it’s also a reason why many homeowners consider remodeling their kitchen before the holidays for positive changes like more seating, energy efficiency, convenience, and functionality. 

In this article, we’ll discuss 11 Kitchen Remodeling Ideas: Elevate Your Home for the Holidays that can help you remodel your kitchen perfectly to enjoy the holidays over the next years. Let’s dig in.

11 Kitchen Remodeling Ideas: Elevate Your Home for the Holidays

How Do You Remodel An Old Kitchen Before The Holidays?

When the holidays are approaching, here’s 11 Kitchen Remodeling Ideas: Elevate Your Home for the Holidays that you may want to consider as a change of atmosphere. There are several ways to complete a remodel, from whole home remodeling to paint updates to full kitchen renovations. Here are a few ideas:

Declutter

The first and foremost thing you should do when remodeling your kitchen is to declutter and sort out everything big and small in that area. This is a free revamp that can truly make a big impact! This will help you assess what kind of remodeling you should do and plan the process faster. Also, your whole kitchen will look fresh when you finish removing all the unnecessary things. A good rule of thumb to go by is if you haven’t used the appliance, dishes, bowl, etc in more than two years, it may be time to get rid of it. 

Renovate Cabinets

Cabinets occupy most of the space in a kitchen. That’s why if you renovate the cabinets, it will drastically change the look of your kitchen. Even a simple cabinet makeover is enough to surprise the guests on holidays. However, if you want to replace all the cabinets, it can be quite expensive. Still, you can try different methods of cabinet renovation, such as painting, applying coatings, adding vinyl or wallpaper, etc. Sometimes, people remove all the cabinets and try open shelving for a fresher and decluttered look. Also, for more storage, you can try adding more drawers and cabinets if there is free space. This may be the time to add in the soft close cabinets and drawers. 

RELATED: 10 Remodeling Projects To Do Before the Holidays

Upgrade Knobs and Pulls

When you finish renovating the cabinets, the old pulls and knobs won’t always look refreshing. You can color them or replace them with a better-looking set of knobs and pulls. It’s better if your new pull set has the same center-to-center dimension, as you won’t need to worry about drilling new holes and fixing the old ones.

Upgrade Appliances

All the appliances in your kitchen, such as the refrigerator, oven, microwave, dishwasher, and all other small devices, act as the focus of the cooking area. When you’re remodeling the whole area, you should consider changing the appliances to match the surrounding. Not just for looks, but energy efficiency, safety, and functionality all play a part in upgrading kitchen appliances. And the holiday seasons are best for getting new appliances, as most companies offer holiday specials discounts. You can also save money by selling the old appliances.

Upgrade Sinks and Faucets

The kitchen sink is the part that we need to use all the time. That’s why this place gets messy most often. You can replace the sink with a smart or digital sink that will keep the dishwashing area looking tidy and new. However, replacing the sink can be a costly project. But you can always replace the faucets with new, elegant sets with very small expenses, and the dishwasher surrounding will look better.

Upgrade Countertops

The countertops get messy often since we prepare the dishes there. You can try upgrading them by applying a new protective coating. For a brand-new look, you can try changing the material of the countertops with granite, quartz, marble, concrete, and so on. After you completed the decluttering on the countertops, you’ll have a better visual at the shape of your countertops. 

Upgrade Outlet Covers

The switch plates and outlets in your old kitchen become dirty and hideous over time. If your whole kitchen looks great after remodeling but the outlets look old and discolored, it can be an eye sore. Consider changing the outlets or painting them. 

Upgrade the Dining Area

To remodel your kitchen, you can also try upgrading the dining area, as by transforming this area, you can make the whole kitchen more functional and aesthetically pleasing. You can renovate the area by selecting the right furniture, selecting the proper lighting and color scheme, and investing in an updated set of tableware. 

Upgrade Flooring

If your budget allows, you should upgrade the flooring to bring out the best in all of the other renovations. However, you can also make the floor better and more comfortable by adding extra rugs. There are many options for flooring, so be sure you consider the best option for your family’s needs. 

New Lighting

Lighting can change the look of your kitchen, no matter how much you upgrade other areas. If there are unnecessary shadows and glares, people will feel uncomfortable just by being there for a few minutes. That’s why it’s necessary to properly plan the lighting style and upgrade if necessary. Also, you can add some decorative lighting like chandeliers, globes, or dangling pendants.

Add Backsplash

Introducing backsplash tile or wallpaper can add another dimension to your kitchen. The whole area can even look wider and larger with a specific color of backsplash. Moreover, recently, many 3D tiles and prints have become available that can make your guests drop their jaws. And you can get all the benefits without spending much since the backsplashes aren’t that expensive.

Since there are major and minor renovations you can do to remodel the kitchen, you may think about doing the minor changes yourself to save money. But in case you want to make major changes without hiring anyone, we recommend you not do things all by yourself. Leave the remodeling to the contractor or professionals; otherwise, the new kitchen may turn out worse.

If you’re ready to explore your home for a kitchen, bathroom, whole home, or basement remodel, reach out today for a free design consultation

9 Advantages of Hiring a Design Builder for Your Home Renovation

If you want to remodel your home, many people will suggest you hire a design-builder. One may ask… what exactly is a design-builder? According to wikipedia, it is a method to deliver a project in which the design and construction services are contracted by a single entity known as the design–builder or design–build contractor. It can be subdivided into architect-led design–build (ALDB, sometimes known as designer-led design–build) and contractor-led design–build. A homeowner may explore the design-build contractor options and determine they are the most qualified for home renovation projects,  as they will save you money over the years. So, let’s get to know more about them.

What Is Design-Build?

Again, when designers, builders, and other specialists work as a team under one single contract with the project client or owner to provide construction services, this method is called ‘design-build.’ In brief, in a design-build project, there is only one contract, one organization, and one coordinated flow of work. Wineteer is continually reminded by our clients how important their seamless process is for a stress-free home remodel. With Wineteer, you will have a dedicated team of professionals that will walk you along each step of the remodel.  This isn’t always the case with home remodeling companies, so be sure you ask questions and understand the contractual and design/build side. 

9 Advantages of Hiring a Design Builder for Your Home Renovation

Reasons to Hire A Design Builder for Your Home Remodeling Project

There are many reasons why you should consider hiring a design-builder for your bathroom, kitchen, whole home, and aging in place remodeling project. Here are the main reasons:

1. Single Point of Contact

In traditional remodeling projects, homeowners dealt with designers, contractors, subcontractors, architects, retailers, workers, and other people depending on the home remodeling scope of work. This makes the work slow, adds additional stress, causes budgeting nightmares if not monitored correctly, increases disruptions to daily life, and has more chances for miscommunication.

But when you hire a design-builder for the project, the company combines all of the activities under a single umbrella, and thus the homeowners will work with the same team from the first meeting to the completion of the project. As Wineteer explains it… once you partner with us, you will become family. The  homeowner will see the same crew each day during the remodeling project. In this way, everyone will function more effectively, and challenging problems can be handled more efficiently.

RELATED: The benefits of hiring a design-build contractor for your home remodel

2. Fixed-Price Contract

If you don’t hire a design-builder, you will naturally spend extra because of inaccurate or unanticipated problems, or change orders as they arise. However, a design-builder can give you an accurate cost-analysis before starting the work and prevent unexpected expenditures during or after your project is done.

However, you can always decide to add more to your project or make changes throughout the process, which can easily be adjusted in the design-builder billing. It’s a much easier and more seamless way to make the changes compared to tracking down a contractor to implement the changes, pay them, then get back on track. 

3. Efficient Communication

Since the work is centralized and team members are connected to each other through the central hub, communication becomes easier, faster, and more efficient. Many local home remodeling companies have extensive experience and relationships with vendors that will allow for superior customer service and finishes. 

4. Faster Project Completion

In most cases, it’s crucial for you to get the remodeling project done within the agreed-upon schedule. Also, knowing when the project will end will help you save money and get started with other finishing projects. When you work with a design-build company, they always finish their work on time, sometimes even faster than the estimated time.

5. High-Quality Craftsmanship

Understanding functionality and needs is crucial for any remodeling project; it’s much more than just being appealing. When skilled designers remodel a house, they first make it a high-functioning area with minimal disruption, and bring a vision to life. 

Moreover, with a design-builder, you can get the combined expertise they’ve gathered by working on many different projects over the years. They won’t take any shortcuts; rather, they will combine all their knowledge and information to make your project the best one.

6. Minimize Risks

We all need to keep in mind that unforeseen problems can occur while remodeling and renovating a home. However, the risk can be reduced if you work with a design-build company. They can minimize risks as their team has the skills and knowledge to address any issues and fix them in the best way possible. The communication will go directly between the homeowner and the design-builder, and won’t be a game of telephone to figure out what’s happening. 

They can also take preventive measures beforehand to eliminate the possibility of risks. In this way, the cost of emergency risk management will also decrease.

7. Stress-free Environment

Handling the remodeling of your home can be very stressful from time to time. You may get confused about how you should start the project, whom you should contact, when invoices are due, or what you are responsible for during the process.

However, with the design-builder to guide you through each and every step with their knowledgeable assistance, you will feel relaxed throughout the remodeling process.

8. Flexibility

Design-build firm members can always handle unexpected and challenging situations better. Also, they can provide you with a quick solution if you want to add or remove anything from the planned project. Their flexibility makes the homeowner satisfied in any kind of situation.

9. Fewer Disputes

When work is not properly organized and there are miscommunications, disputes among the parties and workers arise. But when a centralized design-build firm handles the remodeling project, everything is properly organized and there are fewer disputes.

Is a Design-build Firm Right for Your Project?

Depending on your project’s unique requirements, you may want to explore the consideration of a design-build company.  You should have an open and honest question with potential home remodeling design-builders and discuss your budget, timeline, goals, vision, etc. You can determine quickly if the project will be a match for the said contractor. 

Advantages of Hiring a Design-Build Firm

  • Promotes continuity in the project’s goal with streamlined communication. 
  • Legal and safety risks are reduced.
  • Quick response to handle unexpected challenges and changes.
  • Quality-control of the project is monitored. 
  • Accountability is mandated. 
  • More efficient project management can be achieved.

Hiring a design-builder is definitely a good idea for homeowners who want to partner with a company who cares about their reputation and the project itself. If you think about it, the design-builder has so much more on the line than a single contractor who comes in for a day, does their job, and leaves. If you’re considering a home remodeling project in the Kansas City area, reach out to Wineteer to see if we can answer your questions. We are there to help you bring your vision to life! 

How to Evaluate Home Remodelers Before Hiring

Thinking of remodeling your house? Your kitchen, basement, laundry/mud room, bathroom, or outdoor space? Based on the scope of work, the design, and the budget, you will probably need a remodeler’s assistance. However, not just any home remodeling company, it must be the right fit. To hire a home remodeling company, there are many factors that the homeowner should consider, including a contractor or company who aligns with the intended design and build process, budget, timeline, and communication. Remember, only a good home remodeler can design a plan that fits your idea and budget perfectly.

Home remodeling companies can even identify the most cost-effective and resourceful methods for an expensive and elaborate project. Some homeowners receive the construction and remodeling company options from referrals, Better Business Bureau, or even simply on Google. It is overwhelming to look at an extensive list of companies, so be sure you have a thorough list of must-haves, nice-to-haves, and not important. Some considerations can include experience, design and employee rapport with homeowners, dedication, temperament and communication skills. Therefore, this article will outline some essential criteria on how to evaluate home remodelers before hiring. Let’s get started. 

The Factors to Evaluate Home Remodelers Before Hiring

Remember, only an expert home remodeler can bring you success and make the most of your budget, while reducing the stress and anxiety throughout the entire process.  Homeowners need someone reliable, trustworthy, and professional, so you’re comfortable with the team in your home for weeks or even months!  Consider the below factors before hiring a home remodeler:

  1. Years of Business
    A factor to consider when thinking about How to Evaluate Home Remodelers Before Hiring is the contractors business history. It is essential for you to find out how long the potential home remodelers you are considering have been in business. Someone new, of course, can prove to be efficient, but someone years into this business will have a deeper understanding, and have more depth to the design and build process. Therefore, prioritize the ones who have worked in this field for a longer period of time. Expect experienced teams to have more familiarity with past and present market scenarios, broader connections, resourceful design elements, and valuable insights. By now, experienced home remodeling companies have learned from each project. At this point, home remodeling contractors with years of experience should be pros at seeking the best subcontractors.  However, it would be a plus if the remodelers have experience working on projects similar to yours.
  2. License and Insurance
    It is absolutely crucial to verify whether each remodeler you shortlisted is registered as a home improvement contractor. What certifications do the potential home remodeling companies hold?  In addition, when interviewing the final candidates, ask for a copy of the contractor’s workers’ compensation and liability insurance policy. Make sure the home remodeling company’s insurance policy is active.
  3. Experience and Portfolio
    Experience is one of the vital factors to look for in a kitchen and bathroom remodeler. Only an experienced remodeler can offer the best ideas on a budget, critical perspectives, help with complexities and efficiently handle unexpected events. Initially, when researching remodelers, you should look for their recent work portfolio which should be on their website. If not, feel free to ask them for some before/after pictures, and they should be able to showcase their best skills. This will give you a rough idea of how they handled their past projects.However, when the number is narrowed down to a few, you must ask for their experiences in detail and portfolio during the interview. The portfolio must reflect all the details of their previous projects. Additionally, you can request the few selected candidates to drive you to their previous project sites.
  4. Communication and Compatibility
    Proper and transparent communication is a must when it comes to an expensive home remodeling project. Remember, remodeling may be something very new to the homeowner, so it can be a process that requires hand-holding. Therefore, if the remodeler is impatient, or fails to communicate and cannot give you a detailed view of each step of the process, then mistakes (and frustrations) are inevitable. Additionally, a good contractor will keep you updated on the progress, from design to build. While interviewing each potential home remodeling company, note your feelings and first impressions. Typically, as the saying goes… trust your gut. It is essential to understand if you can keep up with their temperaments and style of conducting business. Look for someone who listens and responds to you, communicates clearly, and is focused on you in each step of the way. To give life to your vision, you must understand each other and have a compatible work relationship.
  5. Check for Online Reviews and Seek Recommendations
    One of the first things you do as the homeowner when researching remodelers is visit their website or social media pages. This is where you can find a section featuring testimonials from previous clients. Besides, you can also check out popular websites such as Angi, Google Business Profile, Yelp, and Facebook. These platforms have lists of contractors, their details and reviews from their clients.To get more recommendations, you can also speak with friends, neighbors, and relatives who have recently had remodeling work done. They can give you an accurate picture of the work’s quality, price and integrity based on their first-hand experiences. 
  6. Contract and Written Estimates
    Before you decide on the remodeler, you should ask for a written estimate. It could be in the form of a bidding document. The document tells you what to expect, with details on inventories and the expected prices. Do you choose the one that has the lowest estimate? No, the lowest estimate does not necessarily mean the best offer, but the contractor may often come out as inefficient. Or the contractor will inundate you with change orders, which will end up costing you more than a higher budgeted amount to begin with. Instead, try to choose based on pricing that is fair, both with respect to your budget and market price.  When both parties agree, you must create a contract paper describing every aspect. You may hire a lawyer to outline each of the segments, plans and discussions in detail. Make sure they should comply with local and international laws.
  7. Timeline and Schedule
    Setting a timeline and scheduling the work requires a discussion with the selected remodeler. Firstly, check for their availability. They may be equipped with other projects as well. If you have a contractor who is ready to begin the work tomorrow… run! Contractors should set a specific timeline and schedule dedicated to your project. The contract should specify the start and end dates. When going through their portfolios, if you find that a remodeler exceeded the completion date on some projects, you shouldn’t assume they are inefficient. This could be a result of unfavorable events.
  8. Payment Terms
    With a mutual agreement, you must discuss payment terms and schedule. The payment schedule should have tentative dates. It must be presented on the contract. All in all, you should have a clear and transparent understanding and agreement of the payment terms so none of the parties has any objection during the process or in the end. Note that, when a remodeler asks for all or a large down payment, this may indicate a problem. In such cases, you may have to consider another contractor.

How to Evaluate Home Remodelers Before Hiring

 

Questions to Ask Your Home Remodeling Contractor at the First Meeting:

Here is a list of some possible questions to consider in the design and build consultation:

  • What type of experience do you have managing this type of project?
  • Do you have a license and certification?
  • Do you have workers’ compensation and liability insurance?
  • Does your company handle building permits?
  • Can you provide references?
  • Does the project involve a dedicated team and subcontractors?
  • What is the cost estimate?
  • Can you give me an idea of the timeline for this project?
  • Do you have insurance?
  • How do you deal with budget overruns, change orders?
  • Do you run multiple projects at the same time?
  • What measures will you take to prevent damage to my property?

When seeking a construction and remodeling contractor, you must know how to evaluate them to sift out the best among the many. The process involves learning about their experiences, expertise, integrity, communication skills, and availability. Of course the number of years in the home remodeling business matters, however you should also consider the remodeling design creativity. Plus, One of the ways to find a home remodeling company that has a similar project to your own is to find neighbors, friends, or family who have worked with the home remodeling company you are considering. Homeowners in the Leawood, Olathe, Overland Park, Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit, Parkville, and all of Kansas City are looking to Wineteer for their superior kitchen, bathroom, whole room, aging in place, and outdoor remodeling projects. 

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