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Preserving Craft. Designing Forward. A Conversation with Madda Studio

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:32:41 GMT

Preserving Craft. Designing Forward. A Conversation with Madda Studio

At PACE Design & Construction, we believe meaningful spaces are shaped by the hands, stories, and materials behind them. The environments we create are enriched when craftsmanship, sustainability, and cultural heritage are woven into the design process.

We recently had the opportunity to speak with Maddalena Forcella, textile artist and co-founder of Madda Studio , a collaborative textile studio based in Oaxaca, Mexico. Her work bridges Italian design sensibility with traditional Mexican artisanal techniques, resulting in textiles that honor lineage while embracing contemporary form.

What follows is a look inside her philosophy, process, and commitment to craft.

The Origins of Madda Studio

Madda Studio was formally established in 2016, but its roots stretch back decades. Maddalena began working in Chiapas in 1995, where she co-founded a nonprofit association and led textile and natural dye workshops. Over time, she built deep relationships with artisans in the region.

When she partnered with sustainable development expert Marie Farneth in 2016, they created a structure that would allow them to continue collaborating with artisans while expanding into partnerships with designers and architects. The goal was clear: build a sustainable business model that preserves traditional craft while engaging contemporary design.

The result is a studio that thoughtfully merges Italian refinement with Mexican artisanal heritage. Each piece carries forward ancient techniques, reimagined through a modern lens.

A Philosophy Rooted in Longevity

At the heart of Madda Studio are four pillars: local economic development, cultural preservation, sustainability, and the pursuit of beauty.

Long-term relationships are foundational to their work. Maddalena has collaborated with some artisans for more than 30 years. That continuity builds trust, confidence, and a shared commitment to excellence. These relationships are not transactional. They are built over time, through shared knowledge and mutual respect.

In a world dominated by mass production and disposability, Madda Studio stands for the enduring quality of handcrafted goods. Their textiles embrace the natural variability of materials and celebrate the individuality that comes from human hands. Each piece reflects a lineage of tradition and honors every artisan who has touched it.

Designing From the Material Up

For Madda Studio, design begins with the material itself.

Each textile starts with hand-spun wool sourced from a local breed of sheep raised in the Highlands of Chiapas. Indigenous Chamula women spin the wool using a pre-Hispanic drop spindle, preserving a technique that has been practiced for generations.

The natural variations in the wool’s color and thickness guide the creative process. Texture, depth, and character emerge organically as the material interacts with refined weaving techniques. Rather than forcing uniformity, the studio allows the inherent qualities of the wool to shape each design.

Color plays an equally important role. Maddalena’s early training in restoration and her deep understanding of color theory inform a dyeing process that is both scientific and intuitive. Natural dyes are layered through multiple baths to achieve complex, nuanced tones that go far beyond the primary hues of individual plants. The untreated wool, rich in lanolin, gives the finished textiles a subtle sheen and remarkable depth.

Sustainability as Practice, Not Trend

Sustainability at Madda Studio is not a marketing narrative. It is embedded in every stage of production.

All materials are sourced from certified local producers or reclaimed from waste streams. The studio collaborates with the nonprofit El Camino de Los Altos in San Cristobal de Las Casas, which brings together 130 women textile artisans. Their skill and craftsmanship are integral to every piece created.

Cochineal for dyeing is sourced from a local farm in Oaxaca. Indigo comes from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Logwood is obtained through Planalto, a reforestation initiative in southern Mexico that protects a species once at risk of disappearing. Even marigolds collected from Día de los Muertos altars are repurposed and transformed into dye, giving the flowers new life beyond celebration.

Equally important is the studio’s commitment to stable employment and fair collaboration. The process of local economic development is gradual, and Madda Studio approaches it step by step, ensuring that artisans’ skills are valued both within their communities and in the international design market.

Collaboration Across Borders

Madda Studio’s work extends beyond Oaxaca through creative partnerships with designers and furniture makers.

One collaboration that deeply resonated with Maddalena was with the Los Angeles–based studio Stahl + Band. Their shared appreciation for craftsmanship resulted in collections where handcrafted textiles complemented meticulously designed furniture. Seeing the first collection installed, with upholstered pieces paired alongside her paintings, was a moment of fulfillment and affirmation of the power of cross-cultural creative dialogue.

These partnerships demonstrate how traditional craft can integrate seamlessly into contemporary interiors, enriching spaces with authenticity and depth.

Looking Ahead

In an increasingly competitive market saturated with mass-produced alternatives, Madda Studio continues to focus on meaningful partnerships and authentic work. As a small, socially driven studio, growth is approached thoughtfully. Each new collaboration is an opportunity to evolve while staying grounded in core values.

For PACE, this philosophy resonates deeply.

When we design and build spaces, we are not simply assembling materials. We are curating experiences. Integrating handcrafted elements like those from Madda Studio brings history, texture, and intention into the built environment. It reminds us that design is not only about aesthetics, but about people, process, and impact.

Craft matters. Relationships matter. And when materials carry a story, the spaces they inhabit feel timeless.

What Goes Into the Price of a Kitchen Remodel

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:56:19 GMT

What Goes Into the Price of a Kitchen Remodel

A kitchen remodel is one of the most significant investments a homeowner can make. In Washington, DC and the surrounding region, it is also one of the most misunderstood.

Many homeowners begin with a number they have heard from a friend or seen online. The problem is that kitchen remodeling prices are not driven by square footage alone. They are driven by scope, planning, materials, structural conditions, and the level of detail involved.

At PACE Design & Construction, we believe price clarity begins with understanding what truly drives the investment.

Design and Planning

Every successful kitchen remodel starts with design. This includes layout development, architectural drawings, structural evaluation, and detailed scope writing.

In older DC homes, especially rowhouses and early 20th-century colonials, walls may not be square, framing may need reinforcement, and utilities may be outdated. Proper planning identifies these realities before construction begins.

Design is not a line item to minimize. It is what prevents costly changes mid-project.

Demolition and Structural Work

Many kitchens involve more than cosmetic updates. Removing walls, reconfiguring layouts, or opening a kitchen to adjacent living spaces requires structural analysis.

Load-bearing walls often require beams. Floors may need reinforcement to support stone surfaces or large islands. In historic neighborhoods, additional review may be required before exterior changes are approved.

Structural modifications are often one of the largest price variables because they are specific to each home.

Cabinetry

Cabinetry typically represents one of the largest portions of a kitchen budget. The difference between stock, semi-custom, and full custom cabinetry significantly affects price.

Construction quality, wood species, finish systems, hardware, and interior organization all influence price. In high-end remodels, cabinetry alone can represent a substantial percentage of the overall investment.

At PACE, we guide clients through options that align with both function and longevity.

Countertops and Surfaces

Natural stone, engineered quartz, solid surface materials, and specialty finishes each carry different price points.

Edge profiles, waterfall details, full-height backsplashes, and integrated sinks all add complexity and cost. Surface selections are not just aesthetic decisions. They affect fabrication, installation labor, and timeline.

Appliances

Appliance prices vary widely. Standard packages differ dramatically from professional-grade systems with panel-ready refrigeration, induction cooking, steam ovens, and built-in coffee systems.

Electrical upgrades are often required to support modern appliances. Gas line modifications or ventilation upgrades may also be necessary.

Flooring

Kitchen flooring must balance durability, moisture resistance, and design continuity. Hardwood refinishing, tile installation, or luxury engineered products each carry different labor and material prices.

In DC homes, leveling older subfloors is often required before new finishes are installed.

Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing

Behind the walls is where much of the real work happens.

Relocating sinks, gas lines, or drains adds plumbing costs. Upgrading service panels or adding dedicated appliance circuits increases electrical scope. HVAC adjustments may be needed to accommodate new layouts or expanded spaces.

These components are rarely visible in finished photos, but they are essential to a properly functioning kitchen.

Permits and Inspections

In Washington, DC and surrounding jurisdictions, permits are typically required for kitchen remodels that involve structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical changes.

Permitting fees, inspections, and compliance with local codes are part of the overall investment. Skipping this process may seem less expensive upfront but carries long-term risk.

Project Management and Labor

A well-run project includes scheduling, trade coordination, inspections, material procurement, and daily oversight.

Professional carpenters, licensed electricians, licensed plumbers, tile installers, and finish crews each contribute specialized expertise. Quality craftsmanship requires skilled labor, and skilled labor carries cost.

Transparent project management reduces delays, errors, and rework.

Allowances and Scope Clarity

One of the most common reasons kitchen remodel budgets escalate is vague scope definition.

Allowances may appear to reduce initial pricing, but they often lead to mid-project adjustments. A clearly defined scope with specific material selections creates more predictable outcomes.

At PACE, we focus on detailed planning before construction begins so clients understand where their investment is allocated.

What is the Price of a Kitchen Remodel in Washington, DC?

Kitchen remodel prices in the DC market vary widely based on size, structural changes, finish level, and appliance selection. A cosmetic refresh differs significantly from a full layout reconfiguration with structural modifications and high-end finishes.

The key is not starting with a number. The key is defining the scope.

Building with Confidence

A kitchen remodel is both a financial and lifestyle investment. When properly designed and executed, it improves daily living, increases long-term value, and enhances how a home functions.

At PACE Design & Construction, our design-build process prioritizes clarity, planning, and craftsmanship. We develop detailed scopes of work, realistic budgets, and construction strategies tailored to your home.

If you are considering a kitchen remodel in Washington, DC or the surrounding area, start with a conversation about scope and goals.

Contact Pace to explore the possibilities!

Designing Multigenerational Homes in Washington, DC

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 13:04:16 GMT

Designing Multigenerational Homes in Washington, DC

Multigenerational living is no longer a niche housing trend. In Washington, DC and the surrounding region, more families are choosing to live together for financial, cultural, and caregiving reasons. Aging parents are moving in. Adult children are returning home. Families are planning ahead rather than reacting to life changes.

At PACE Design & Construction, we approach multigenerational design as a long-term architectural strategy, not simply an added bedroom or basement conversion. When properly planned, these homes balance privacy, independence, accessibility, and long-term value.

Understanding Multigenerational Living in DC

The Washington, DC market presents unique challenges. Lot sizes are often tight. Zoning regulations vary by neighborhood. Many homes are older rowhouses or colonials not originally designed for flexible living arrangements.

Because of this, multigenerational design in DC requires thoughtful planning from the beginning. It involves understanding structural limitations, navigating zoning requirements, and integrating accessibility without compromising aesthetics.

A well-designed multigenerational home should feel cohesive. It should not feel like an afterthought.

What Makes a Well-Designed In-Law Suite

An in-law suite is more than a bedroom with a nearby bathroom. When designed correctly, it functions as a semi-independent living space while remaining connected to the primary home.

In the DC area, this often includes a private entrance when zoning allows, a dedicated bathroom with accessible features, a kitchenette or wet bar, sound separation between living areas, and independent HVAC zoning for comfort control.

Privacy is critical. So is dignity. The goal is to create a space where a parent or family member feels at home, not like a temporary guest.

Accessibility Without Institutional Design

Accessibility does not have to look clinical. In fact, when done properly, it should be almost invisible.

Zero-step entries, wider hallways, reinforced walls for future grab bars, curbless showers, lever hardware, layered lighting, and thoughtful circulation paths can all be integrated into a beautiful residential design.

In Washington’s historic neighborhoods, this often requires careful structural modifications. Floor heights, existing staircases, and narrow footprints must be evaluated early in the design process. Planning ahead prevents expensive structural rework later.

At PACE, we believe accessibility should be integrated from day one whenever possible. It protects long-term value and allows homeowners to age in place with confidence.

Garage Conversions, Additions, and Basement Suites

In the DC metro area, homeowners typically consider three approaches for multigenerational living: basement conversions, garage conversions, or home additions.

Basement suites are common in DC rowhouses and can work well when ceiling height, egress, and moisture control are addressed properly. Garage conversions are more feasible in suburban neighborhoods where zoning allows. Additions provide the most flexibility but require deeper structural and permitting analysis.

Each option carries different cost implications, zoning considerations, and resale impacts. The right solution depends on the home, the neighborhood, and the long-term goals of the family.

Navigating Zoning and ADU Regulations in Washington, DC

In-law suites and accessory dwelling units are regulated differently depending on location. Washington, DC has specific ADU guidelines that address size, owner occupancy, entrances, and parking. Montgomery County and Northern Virginia jurisdictions have their own rules.

Understanding whether a space qualifies as an ADU or remains part of the primary residence matters for permitting, taxation, and resale.

This is not an area where assumptions work. Early planning and proper documentation are critical.

The Emotional Side of Design

Multigenerational living is not just a construction decision. It is a family decision.

The design must account for daily routines, shared kitchens, quiet spaces, accessibility needs, and long-term adaptability. Good design supports independence while maintaining connection.

The conversation should include not just square footage, but lifestyle. Where does everyone gather. Where does someone retreat. How does the home evolve over the next ten to twenty years.

Building for Long-Term Value

Homes in Washington, DC carry significant long-term value. Designing flexible living spaces increases adaptability and often improves resale appeal, especially as more buyers look for aging-in-place solutions.

When accessibility and multigenerational features are integrated thoughtfully, they add functionality without limiting marketability.

At PACE Design & Construction, our process begins with planning. We evaluate structural feasibility, zoning implications, long-term cost considerations, and architectural integration before construction begins. That level of preparation reduces surprises and protects your investment.

If you are considering a multigenerational renovation or adding an in-law suite in Washington, DC, the first step is thoughtful design.

Learn more about our design-build process at buildingwithpace.com or schedule a consultation to explore what is possible for your home.

Contact Pace to explore the possibilities!

Illuminating Design: Why We’re Excited About Ketra Lighting

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 22:07:13 GMT

Illuminating Design: Why We’re Excited About Ketra Lighting

At PACE we seek innovations that elevate the environment, and lighting is no exception. When we discovered Ketra, it wasn’t just about light fixtures it was about reimagining light itself as an architectural experience. Their human-first approach to illumination makes Ketra a standout solution.

Lighting That Follows the Rhythm of Life

Ketra lighting doesn’t just turn on and off it shifts, adapts, and evolves like daylight. Using cutting-edge tunable LED technology, Ketra mirrors the natural changes in sunlight throughout the day. Imagine soft amber tones to start your morning, a cool bright midday glow to energize your workspace, and warm, relaxing hues as evening sets in. The effect is subtle but transformative.

Why does this matter? Because humans are wired to respond to natural light. By designing interiors with lighting that honors the sun’s rhythm, we create spaces that promote well-being, support productivity, and feel more alive.

Full-Spectrum Color, Tailored to the Moment

Unlike traditional lighting, Ketra’s full-spectrum technology offers incredible precision. With ultra-high CRI (Color Rendering Index) and deep R9 values, it renders colors with extraordinary accuracy. Art, wood finishes, textiles, and even food look richer and more vibrant under Ketra light.

But what really excites us at PACE is the control. Whether you’re looking to highlight natural materials in a custom-built kitchen or create mood-rich layers in a hospitality setting, Ketra gives you the tools to dial in the perfect feel.

Designed for Smart Living

Ketra integrates seamlessly with Lutron HomeWorks, creating a responsive lighting ecosystem that can be customized to your routine or mood. Through mobile apps, smart switches, or even voice control, you can fine-tune your lighting with just a tap or command.

And when paired with our thoughtfully designed interiors, that means your space is not only beautiful, it's intuitive, adaptive, and centered on your lifestyle.

A Bright Step Toward Sustainability

Ketra’s efficiency isn’t just in how it operates it's how it supports sustainable building. Long-lasting LEDs mean fewer replacements, and smart systems mean less wasted energy. It’s a lighting solution that’s as forward-thinking environmentally as it is aesthetically.

Why We’re Building with Ketra

Ketra embodies what we care most about at PACE: creating environments that inspire, function beautifully, and improve how people feel inside them. It’s not just about lighting a room, it's about enhancing the way we live in it.

Ready to Build Brighter?

If you’re planning a renovation or a wellness-driven space that demands smarter, more human lighting, let’s talk about how Ketra can shape it.

Contact Pace to explore the possibilities!

The Deadline Homeowners Need to Know: Save Big on Energy Upgrades Before 2025 Ends

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 19:03:26 GMT

The Deadline Homeowners Need to Know: Save Big on Energy Upgrades Before 2025 Ends

Thinking about making your home more comfortable, energy-efficient, and less expensive to run? There’s never been a better, or more urgent time.

Thanks to current federal incentives, homeowners can still get up to 30% back in tax credits when upgrading their homes with things like heat pumps, insulation, or electrical panel upgrades. But here’s the catch:

Many of these savings expire at the end of 2025.

At PACE, we’re here to guide you through exactly what this means — and how to take advantage of it while you still can.

What’s Going Away?

For the last few years, the federal government has offered generous tax credits to homeowners who make energy-saving improvements to their homes.

These include:

Efficient heating & cooling systems like heat pumps
Electrical panel upgrades to support modern appliances or EV chargers
Insulation and air sealing to reduce energy loss
High-performance windows and doors

These tax credits cover up to $3,200 per year on qualifying upgrades, money back in your pocket when you file your taxes.

But due to recent changes in federal legislation, most of these credits will be reduced or eliminated after December 31, 2025.

What Kind of Work Qualifies?

PACE specializes in making homes more livable, durable, and energy-smart without unnecessary frills. That means we focus on improvements that matter:

Upgrade: Heat Pumps

Why it matters: Efficient heating & cooling in one system

Potential credit: Up to $2,000

Upgrade: Electrical Panel Upgrades

Why it matters: Prepares your home for EV chargers or modern appliances

Potential credit: Up to $600

Upgrade: Insulation & Air Sealing

Why it matters: Keeps your home comfortable and energy bills low

Potential credit: Up to $1,200

Upgrade: Energy-Efficient Windows/Doors

Why it matters: Reduces drafts and improves indoor comfort

Potential credit: Up to $600

We’ll help you understand which upgrades make the most sense for your home, your lifestyle, and your budget.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Even though it’s only July, now is the time to start planning.

Here’s why:

Installers are getting booked fast as homeowners rush to meet the deadline.
City permitting and inspections can take weeks, sometimes months.
Some upgrades must be fully installed before 2026 to qualify for credits.

Others only need to be under contract and paid by December 31, we’ll help you sort out the difference.

Waiting until fall could mean missing out altogether.

How PACE Makes It Easy

You don’t need to understand construction to get this done right, that’s our job.

Here's how to make the most of 2025:

Book a consultation — Let’s walk through what your home needs and what you could save.
Plan your project — We'll create a clear scope, schedule, and budget.
Lock it in — Once you approve the plan and sign, your savings are secured.
Upgrade with confidence — We’ll take care of the rest.

Final Thoughts

This is your window of opportunity to make smart upgrades that will:

Lower your energy bills
Improve comfort year-round
Boost your home’s value
And give you thousands back in tax credits if you act before the end of 2025

Schedule your consultation today and let PACE take it from there.

Contact Pace to get started!

The Rising Cost of Home Remodels and Why Wellness Is Worth the Investment

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 21:12:57 GMT

The Rising Cost of Home Remodels and Why Wellness Is Worth the Investment

At In today’s market, remodeling your home is more than just updating finishes or increasing square footage, it's about creating an environment that enhances your daily life. But as materials and labor costs continue to climb, many homeowners are faced with the reality of expanding budgets. At PACE, we believe that despite rising expenses, investing in wellness-centered renovations isn’t just a luxury, it's a necessity for long-term value and quality of life.

Several key factors are contributing to the rising cost of home renovations:

1. Material Price Inflation

The cost of building materials, from lumber and drywall to finishes and fixtures, has seen significant inflation due to global supply chain disruptions, increased demand, and transportation costs. Products that were once readily available now often carry premium pricing or require extended lead times.

2. Labor Shortages and Skilled Trade Demand

The construction industry faces a persistent shortage of skilled labor. As demand for experienced tradespeople rises, so do labor costs. Homeowners now pay more for quality craftsmanship but this also ensures better durability and fewer issues down the line.

3. Code and Compliance Upgrades

Municipal building codes are constantly evolving, especially around energy efficiency, seismic upgrades, and environmental sustainability. Renovating within these modern standards can raise initial project costs though often yielding long-term energy and insurance savings.

The Shift Toward Wellness-Centered Homes

The concept of “wellness” in home design is no longer fringe it’s at the heart of how we think about space. A wellness renovation considers how your home supports your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. This includes:

Natural light optimization
Improved air and water quality
Low-VOC and non-toxic materials
Sound insulation and acoustic comfort
Ergonomic layouts and movement-friendly spaces
Biophilic design that connects interiors with nature

Wellness Costs More and it Pays Off

Incorporating wellness elements into a renovation inevitably adds to the budget. Here’s how:

1. Quality Materials

Wellness design often calls for non-toxic paints, formaldehyde-free cabinetry, and advanced filtration systems all of which carry higher price tags than conventional products.

2. Specialized Design & Engineering

Creating a wellness-driven space often requires more thoughtful planning: daylight modeling, acoustic consulting, air quality testing, and advanced HVAC system design. These are precision services that require both expertise and collaboration.

3. Custom Craftsmanship

Elements like built-in air purifiers, nature-inspired millwork, or spa-like bathrooms often involve custom design and finishes contributing to increased labor and fabrication costs.

Why It’s Worth It

While a wellness renovation may cost more upfront, the return on investment isn’t just financial — it’s personal. A home that supports healthy living can reduce stress, improve sleep, enhance productivity, and foster greater satisfaction with your surroundings.

Plus, as more homeowners prioritize well-being, wellness upgrades are becoming key differentiators in real estate driving both resale value and market appeal.

Balancing Cost with Intention

At PACE we help homeowners strike the right balance between thoughtful investment and practical execution. Rising costs are real, but so is the value of a home that nurtures your health and happiness. With a clear vision, a collaborative process, and a transparent budget, we help clients transform rising prices into rising potential.

Contact Pace to get started!

Building for Wellness: The Critical Role of Clean Drinking Water in Modern Homes

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 13:31:07 GMT

Building for Wellness: The Critical Role of Clean Drinking Water in Modern Homes

At PACE Design & Construction, we believe that a home should not only be beautiful and functional, but also a foundation for long-term health and well-being. As we continue to raise the bar in sustainable and high-performance building, one area we’re increasingly prioritizing is water quality—specifically, access to clean, safe drinking water directly from the tap.

Why Water Quality Matters in Every Home

Water is one of the most fundamental elements of life, yet many households across the country unknowingly consume water that contains trace amounts of chlorine, heavy metals, PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and even microplastics. While these contaminants may be present in small quantities, long-term exposure can have cumulative health impacts—ranging from gastrointestinal discomfort to serious chronic conditions.

From a design and construction standpoint, it’s no longer enough to rely solely on municipal filtration. The real standard of excellence now includes point-of-use purification systems that give families peace of mind with every glass.

The Role of Reverse Osmosis in Purifying Water

One of the most effective and reliable water purification technologies today is reverse osmosis (RO). RO systems force water through a semipermeable membrane that removes contaminants at the molecular level—including dissolved salts, bacteria, and synthetic chemicals.

As builders who are deeply committed to elevating quality of life for our clients, we’ve been researching best-in-class RO systems that align with our values of health, design, and efficiency.

Why We Recommend Cloud RO by Cloud Water Filters

We’re proud to spotlight the Cloud RO System by Cloud Water Filters as a standout solution we believe in.

This system combines advanced filtration with beautiful, minimalist design—making it a natural fit for PACE homes.

Here’s what makes Cloud RO worth your attention:

5-Stage Filtration: Removes up to 99% of contaminants, including chlorine, lead, arsenic, nitrates, and microplastics.

Slim, Modern Design: No bulky tank. No eyesores. Cloud RO fits elegantly under the sink and looks great doing it.

Easy Installation: No need for major retrofits or specialty plumbing—ideal for new construction or remodels.

App-Connected Monitoring: Track filter life, water usage, and more with a smartphone app, making maintenance seamless.

For us, it’s about creating homes that go beyond the surface. Clean drinking water is an invisible but essential part of a healthier lifestyle—and the Cloud RO system makes achieving that standard both accessible and stylish.

Building the Future, One Sip at a Time

As we push the industry forward, we’re looking beyond energy efficiency and architecture—we’re also considering air, light, and water as core pillars of wellness.

Integrating a system like Cloud RO means we’re helping our clients protect what matters most: their health, their family, and their future.

If you’re planning a new home or renovation, ask us how clean water solutions can be seamlessly incorporated into your build. Let’s design a home that works for your lifestyle—and protects the people you love most.

Contact Pace to get started!

Gas Stoves and Indoor Air Quality: What Every Family Should Know

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:28:06 GMT

Gas Stoves and Indoor Air Quality: What Every Family Should Know

In recent years, conversations about indoor air quality have moved to the forefront of home health. New research is drawing attention to the risks associated with natural gas in our homes —especially for families with children. It’s clear that now more than ever it is important to understand how everyday appliances impact the air we breathe.

At PACE, we believe a well-built home is one that not only looks beautiful but supports your long-term health and wellbeing. Here’s what the latest science says about gas stoves—and what you can do about it.

What’s the Concern with Gas Stoves?

A growing body of research shows that gas stoves can release harmful pollutants into the air, even when they’re not in use. A recent study suggests that emissions from gas stoves are linked to increased cancer risk due to the presence of known carcinogen, benzene.While the cooking flame itself may seem harmless, the invisible chemicals released during and after use can accumulate, especially in homes with poor ventilation. For young children whose developing systems are more vulnerable to environmental toxins, this exposure can be more concerning.

How Gas Appliances Affect Indoor Air Quality

Burning Natural Gas emits pollutants like:

Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂): An irritant that can exacerbate asthma and respiratory conditions.

Carbon monoxide (CO): A colorless, odorless gas that can be dangerous at high concentrations.

Benzene: Linked to blood disorders and certain cancers.

Even with a vent hood, these pollutants may linger—particularly in tightly sealed modern homes designed for energy efficiency.

What Are the Alternatives?

If you're renovating or building new, here are healthier choices worth considering:

1. Induction Cooking

Induction cooktops offer precise temperature control, energy efficiency, and most importantly—no combustion. That means no emissions, no fumes, and no fire hazards. For families with young children, induction is also safer to the touch.

2. Electric Ranges

Today’s electric ranges have come a long way in performance and design. Paired with a well-designed kitchen layout and proper ventilation, they offer a safe, reliable option for modern homes.

3. Improved Ventilation

If replacing a gas stove isn’t feasible right now, consider upgrading your ventilation. A high-powered range hood that vents outdoors (not just recirculates) can drastically reduce indoor air pollutants.

Designing with Health in Mind

At PACE, we approach every project with an eye on the whole picture—beauty, durability, function, and wellness. From low-VOC materials to HVAC systems that promote fresh air exchange, we help our clients build homes that support healthier living.

Whether you're updating your kitchen or building from the ground up, it's worth asking: Is this the healthiest choice for my family?

Let’s design a home that works for your lifestyle—and protects the people you love most.

Contact Pace to get started!

Dream Kitchen & Bath Remodels: Start Planning Summer 2025

Tue, 20 May 2025 17:06:18 GMT

Dream Kitchen & Bath Remodels: Start Planning Summer 2025

There’s something about summer that sparks inspiration for home improvement. Maybe it's the longer days, the fresh energy, or the simple joy of having guests over. Whatever it is, if you’ve been dreaming about a better kitchen or a more relaxing bathroom, Summer 2025 is the perfect time to begin planning your next remodel.

Whether you're considering a kitchen renovation in D.C. or exploring ideas for luxury bath upgrades, this season brings a fresh wave of design trends that blend style, comfort, and smart functionality. Let’s explore the high-end remodeling ideas worth planning for now — and how they can transform your home when the time comes.

The Heart of the Home: Kitchen Renovation D.C. Style

Washington D.C. kitchens are unique. They often sit in historic homes, urban rowhouses, or sleek modern condos — and they need to strike a perfect balance between charm and performance.

In 2025, the focus is on refining what you already love and envisioning upgrades that elevate your space. Think more light, smarter storage, and finishes that feel both modern and timeless.

Here’s what’s trending in D.C. kitchens right now — and worth planning for in your future remodel:

Double Islands: Great for entertaining or giving yourself room to spread out while cooking — ideal for prep, serving, and socializing.
Bold Stone Slabs: Waterfall countertops in marble or quartz, especially with dramatic veining, are in high demand.
Integrated Appliances: Panel-ready fridges and dishwashers that blend seamlessly into cabinetry for a sleek look.
Smart Storage Solutions: Pull-outs, appliance garages, hidden spice racks — it’s all about designing smarter, not bigger.
Mixed Materials: Think warm wood tones combined with matte black fixtures or brushed brass accents.

From Capitol Hill to Chevy Chase, a thoughtfully designed kitchen can add beauty, function, and long-term value. Summer is the perfect time to research, gather ideas, and connect with pros who can help you plan.

Bathroom Goals: Luxury Bath Remodels That Feel Like a Retreat

After a long summer day, your bathroom should be a sanctuary — and planning now can help make that a reality in the months ahead. From spa-inspired aesthetics to integrated smart features, today’s luxury bath trends offer a perfect balance of indulgence and practicality.

Consider these ideas for your future remodel:

Wet Rooms: These open-concept layouts combine a freestanding tub and shower area, often with sleek glass or full tile enclosures.
Floating Vanities: Wall-mounted with underlighting for a clean, modern look.
Natural Finishes: Woodgrain tiles, earth tones, and stone textures for a soothing, organic feel.
Heated Everything: Floors, towel bars, even shower seats — for comfort year-round.
Smart Showers: Personalize water temperature, pressure, and lighting with an app or voice command.

Use this summer to define what “retreat” means to you — and start shaping a vision that’s tailored to your daily routine.

High-End Remodeling Trends to Watch

As you plan ahead, keep these forward-thinking trends in mind. They’re shaping the future of high-end remodeling in ways that go far beyond aesthetics:

Sustainable Luxury: Eco-conscious materials and energy-efficient fixtures are making homes both beautiful and responsible.
Indoor-Outdoor Connections: Pass-through kitchen windows, folding glass walls, and alfresco showers create seamless transitions.
Mood Lighting: Smart systems that adjust with your circadian rhythm are making homes more responsive to well-being.
Tailored Details: Custom millwork, layered textures, and unique built-ins are helping homeowners express their individuality.

Your Summer Planning Starts Now

If a kitchen or bath remodel is on your horizon, Summer 2025 is the ideal time to begin planning. From finding inspiration to defining your goals, the steps you take now will lay the groundwork for a successful transformation.

Whether you’re dreaming of a polished kitchen renovation in D.C. or a serene, spa-inspired bathroom, taking the time to plan ensures that your future remodel is beautifully aligned with your lifestyle and vision.

Ready to turn ideas into action? Start exploring, sketching, and connecting — your dream space begins with a solid plan.

Contact Pace to get started!

When the Contractor Vanishes: A Cautionary Tale—and What We Do Differently

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 18:39:04 GMT

When the Contractor Vanishes: A Cautionary Tale—and What We Do Differently

A bathroom left mid-project… tools scattered, plumbing exposed, and no contractor in sight.

“The contractor stopped returning our calls.”

That’s how the message started.

The homeowner—let’s call him Stan—had hired a general contractor to renovate his bathroom. Not the lowest bid, not a full-service firm either. Just someone who said the right things and promised a quality result.

What followed was a series of red flags: botched tile work, sloppy paint, rerouted plumbing that didn’t meet code. Then came the disappearing act. Two weeks of radio silence. No updates, no notice. Just a half-done bathroom and a contractor who vanished—tools, materials, and all—without a trace.

What Went Wrong?

These stories are more common than they should be. And every time we hear one, it stings. A family entrusts someone with their home, only to be left with rework, frustration, and growing costs.

In Stan’s case, a licensed plumber was brought in after the fact. The rough-in work was riddled with issues. Large sections needed to be torn out and redone. That’s time and money no one plans for—and confidence in the process takes a hit.

The truth is, remodeling is never just about skill with a tile saw or a paintbrush. It’s about process, planning, and most importantly—accountability.

What We Do Differently at PACE

At PACE Design & Construction, we operate as a true design-build firm—one team, under one roof, with one goal: delivering an exceptional result from concept to completion. Here’s what that means for you:

Licensed, Vetted, and Accountable Teams

Every tradesperson we bring onto your project is vetted, and part of a proven system. No guesswork, no ghosting—just professionals doing things the right way.

Design + Construction Under One Roof

Because we handle both design and construction, there's no finger-pointing when issues arise. Our designers build with constructability in mind, and our builders stay aligned with the original vision—start to finish.

Transparent Agreements & Timelines

Our Project Agreements make expectations clear from day one. No vague estimates. No “we’ll figure it out later.” If changes come up, we walk through them with you—together.

Built-In Quality Control

From 3D Matterport scans to collaborative project tracking, our process ensures that every detail is documented, shared, and aligned. Homeowners, designers, and trade partners are literally on the same page.

If You’re Navigating a Remodel…

It’s easy to get caught comparing numbers. But the real difference? It’s not just the price—it’s the process, the people, and the plan behind it all.

Stan didn’t get that the first time. But he reached out to us for a way forward. And that’s what we’re here for.

If you’re starting your own remodeling journey and want to know what to look for—or what to avoid—we’re here to help. That’s part of the job.

Ready to Start the Right Way? Let’s talk. Schedule a consultation or check out our process page to get your bearings.

Contact Pace to get started!

The Space Around You Shapes Your Mind

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 17:09:20 GMT

The Space Around You Shapes Your Mind

Ever walk into a room and instantly feel at ease? Or step into another and feel drained without knowing why? It’s not just in your head—your environment has a profound impact on your mood, productivity, and overall well-being. Thoughtful interior design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that nurtures mental clarity and emotional balance.

Let’s break down how to design a home that not only looks good but feels good too.

Light: The Ultimate Mood Booster

Natural light is a game-changer. It lifts your energy, improves focus, and even helps regulate your sleep cycle. Studies link increased exposure to daylight with lower stress levels and better mental health .

How to bring in more light:

Swap heavy drapes for sheer curtains or blinds that let light in.
Use mirrors to reflect sunlight deeper into your space.
Choose light-colored walls to amplify brightness.

When natural light isn’t an option, mimic it with warm, soft lighting instead of harsh fluorescents.

Color: More Than Just Aesthetic

The psychology of color is real. What you surround yourself with influences your emotions.

Soft blues & greens → calming, great for bedrooms.
Warm yellows & oranges → energizing, perfect for kitchens or creative spaces.
Earthy neutrals → grounding, ideal for common areas.
Deep reds & purples → bold, best used in moderation.

Not sure where to start? Take a look at the colors you naturally gravitate toward in clothing or art—it’s a good indicator of what makes you feel comfortable.

Declutter, Destress

A cluttered space = a cluttered mind. Ever notice how a messy desk makes it harder to concentrate? There’s science behind it—clutter competes for your attention, raising stress levels and reducing mental clarity.

Simple ways to keep things organized:

Use smart storage solutions (hidden compartments, floating shelves, multi-purpose furniture).
Designate spaces for everyday essentials (so you’re not constantly looking for keys or chargers).
Adopt a “one in, one out” rule—if something new comes in, something old goes out.

Minimalism isn’t about getting rid of everything; it’s about keeping what truly adds value.

Bring the Outdoors In

Nature has a calming effect, and integrating natural elements into your space can lower stress and boost happiness.

How to incorporate biophilic design:

Add greenery! Plants improve air quality and bring life to any room.
Use natural materials like wood, stone, or linen in furniture and decor.
Decorate with earthy tones to mimic outdoor serenity.

Even a small plant on your desk can make a difference.

Layout: Function Meets Flow

The way a space is arranged impacts how you feel in it. A cramped, cluttered room can make you feel overwhelmed, while an open, well-planned layout creates a sense of ease.

Optimize your space by:

Keeping pathways clear for easy movement.
Creating separate zones for work, relaxation, and socializing.
Choosing furniture that complements the flow of the room instead of blocking it.

Good design is intuitive—if a space feels off, don’t be afraid to experiment with rearranging it.

Make It Yours

At the end of the day, your space should reflect you. Surround yourself with colors, textures, and pieces that bring you joy. A well-designed home isn’t just beautiful—it supports your mental well-being, making everyday life feel lighter, calmer, and more inspired.

Contact Pace to get started!

Why Proper Ventilation is Essential for Your Bathroom Renovation

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 11:15:29 GMT

Why Proper Ventilation is Essential for Your Bathroom Renovation

When planning a bathroom remodel in Washington, DC, most homeowners focus on the aesthetics—choosing tiles, fixtures, and color schemes. However, ventilation is a critical yet often overlooked factor that can impact both the functionality and longevity of your renovation. Here’s why proper ventilation matters and how it enhances your bathroom space.

The Importance of Ventilation

Bathrooms naturally accumulate moisture from showers and baths. Without adequate ventilation, this excess humidity can lead to mold, mildew, and even structural damage. A well-designed ventilation system controls moisture levels, helping maintain a healthier, more comfortable environment.

Key Benefits of Proper Ventilation

Prevents Mold and Mildew

Excess moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can damage surfaces and pose health risks. Proper ventilation keeps your bathroom dry, reducing these issues.

Protects Your Investment

A beautifully renovated bathroom can quickly deteriorate if paint, grout, and fixtures are exposed to constant humidity. Ventilation helps preserve your remodel, ensuring it stays in top condition for years.

Improves Air Quality

Bathrooms can trap odors and airborne pollutants from cleaning products and cosmetics. A high-quality ventilation system removes these impurities, promoting fresher, healthier air.

Choosing the Right Ventilation System

When selecting a ventilation system for your home in Washington, DC, consider your bathroom’s size and airflow needs. The fan should meet the room’s cubic feet per minute (CFM) requirements for optimal performance. Many modern systems include advanced features like humidity sensors and timers for added convenience and energy efficiency.

Seamless Integration in Your Renovation

To avoid costly adjustments later, discuss ventilation options early in the design phase. This ensures the fan placement and ductwork are properly accounted for while maintaining your desired aesthetic.

Ventilation may not be the most glamorous aspect of a bathroom renovation, but it plays a crucial role in preserving your space. A well-ventilated bathroom enhances comfort, safeguards your investment, and promotes long-term durability.

Ready to elevate both style and function in your bathroom remodel? Contact us to get started on a space that’s as practical as it is beautiful.

Contact Pace to get started!

Maximizing Small Spaces: Thoughtful Home Office Design for Modern Living

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 10:58:05 GMT

Maximizing Small Spaces: Thoughtful Home Office Design for Modern Living

In today's evolving work landscape, creating a functional and inspiring home office within a limited space has become essential. At PACE Design & Construction, we believe that your home should be a reflection of your lifestyle, seamlessly blending form and function. Our mission is to provide tailored design solutions that enhance your living experience, even in the coziest of spaces.

Discovering Potential in Unused Spaces

Every home has untapped areas that can be transformed into efficient workspaces. Consider these possibilities:

Under the Stairs: Often overlooked, the space beneath a staircase can be converted into a compact office. With custom cabinetry and a built-in desk, this nook can become a productive corner.
Closets and Alcoves: Transform a reach-in or walk-in closet into a "cloffice." By installing a desk and shelving, you create a private workspace that can be concealed when not in use.
Attic or Basement: These areas can be finished and customized to serve as secluded home offices, away from the main living areas.

Designing for Efficiency and Aesthetics

A well-designed small office maximizes functionality without compromising style. Here’s how:

Custom Built-Ins: Tailored shelving and cabinetry make the most of vertical space, keeping essentials within reach while maintaining a clutter-free environment.
Ergonomic Furniture: Invest in quality seating and appropriately sized desks to ensure comfort during long work hours.
Natural Light and Lighting: Position your workspace near windows to take advantage of natural light. Supplement with adjustable lighting to reduce eye strain and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Personalizing Your Workspace

Your home office should inspire productivity and reflect your personal style:

Color Palette: Choose calming colors that promote focus, such as soft neutrals or pastels.
Decorative Elements: Incorporate artwork, plants, or personal mementos that motivate and bring joy.
Smart Storage Solutions: Utilize decorative boxes, floating shelves, or pegboards to organize supplies without sacrificing aesthetics.

Seamless Integration with Your Home

At PACE Design & Construction, we specialize in creating spaces that harmonize with your home's existing architecture and design. Our team collaborates with you to develop solutions that meet your functional needs while enhancing the overall aesthetic of your home.

By reimagining underutilized areas and implementing thoughtful design, we can help you create a small home office that is both practical and beautiful—a space where you can thrive professionally within the comfort of your home.

Contact Pace to get started!

Avoid Surprises: The Advantage of Design-Build & Smart Budgeting

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 00:55:21 GMT

Avoid Surprises: The Advantage of Design-Build & Smart Budgeting

When it comes to construction projects, surprises are the last thing you want. Unexpected costs, delays, and miscommunications can turn an exciting project into a stressful experience. That’s where the design-build approach can make all the difference.

Why Design-Build?

Unlike the traditional design-bid-build process, where design and construction are separate entities, design-build integrates both under one company. This streamlined approach fosters better collaboration, minimizes risks, and ensures a more efficient process from start to finish. By working with a design-build firm, you gain:

Single-source accountability – One team is responsible for both design and construction, reducing conflicts and finger-pointing.
Faster project delivery – Design and construction phases overlap, meaning projects can be completed more efficiently.
Cost savings – A unified team can identify cost-saving opportunities early in the process.
Better communication – With all stakeholders working together, the chances of miscommunication are significantly reduced.

Understanding Pricing from the Start

One of the biggest advantages of working with a design-build firm is having a clear understanding of costs from the outset. Instead of vague estimates or change orders piling up later, our approach ensures transparency and predictability in pricing.

Leverage Our Resources for Accurate Budgeting

At Pace, we provide valuable resources to help you understand pricing before committing to a project. Our team works with you to establish accurate price expectations based on:

Standardized pricing for materials and labor – No guessing, just clear, consistent pricing based on industry benchmarks.
Smart planning tools – Explore our website for process and pricing guides, a vendor guide, and financing guide to make planning your remodel easier and more informed!
Expert guidance – Our team ensures that you’re informed every step of the way, avoiding common budgeting pitfalls.

Plan Ahead & Build with Confidence

By choosing a design-build approach and using our resources , you can eliminate surprises and remodel with confidence.

Are you ready to plan your project with clarity? Contact Pace today and let’s make your vision a reality—without the unwelcome surprises.

Contact Pace to get started!

Building Smarter, Not Harder: Lessons from High-Performance Homes

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 11:03:40 GMT

Building Smarter, Not Harder: Lessons from High-Performance Homes

The push for energy-efficient and high-performance buildings is stronger than ever, and at PACE, we believe in bringing the best renovation strategies to our community. The journey toward net-zero and high-performance housing isn’t without its challenges, but with the right approach, we can build better, smarter, and more efficiently.

The Power of Design & Planning

One of the most critical lessons in high-performance renovation is that great design starts long before the first nail is driven. Early-stage planning, including energy modeling, materials selection, and efficiency strategies, can make or break a project’s success. For PACE projects, this means working closely with architects and engineers from the outset to ensure that every component—from insulation levels to HVAC systems—is optimized for energy efficiency.

Smart Material Choices

High-performance homes require materials that balance durability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. At PACE, we prioritize sourcing materials that offer long-term performance while maintaining affordability, ensuring that sustainable remodeling is both practical and achievable.

Labor & Execution Matter

Even the best materials won’t perform if installation isn’t up to par. High-performance homes demand precision, from air-sealing details to proper window and door installation. At PACE, we focus on ensuring our workforce is trained in best practices, leveraging technology and training to improve efficiency and avoid costly mistakes.

Cost vs. Value

The upfront costs of high-performance construction can sometimes be higher, but the long-term savings on energy bills and maintenance make it worthwhile. More importantly, the value of a well-built home extends beyond dollars—it provides healthier indoor air quality, increased comfort, and resilience against extreme weather.

Bringing High-Performance Homes to the Mainstream

One of our biggest goals at PACE is to make high-performance renovations more accessible. Whether through innovative financing, cost-effective methods, or streamlined project management, we’re committed to pushing the industry forward.

By integrating the best lessons from builders and experts in the field, PACE continues to refine its approach to high-efficiency remodeling—ensuring that our projects aren’t just sustainable but also practical and scalable. With smart planning, the right materials, and skilled execution, we can make energy-efficient homes the standard rather than the exception.

Stay tuned for more insights on sustainable remodeling and how PACE is leading the way in building smarter, not harder.

Contact Pace to get started!

Historic Charm Meets Modern Convenience: Remodeling Townhouse Kitchens in D.C.

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 11:08:33 GMT

Historic Charm Meets Modern Convenience: Remodeling Townhouse Kitchens in D.C.

Washington, D.C. is known for its historic charm, with beautifully preserved townhouses that reflect the city’s rich architectural heritage. While these homes offer unique character and a sense of history, their kitchens often lack the modern amenities and functionality that today’s homeowners desire. Remodeling a historic townhouse kitchen presents a unique challenge: blending traditional aesthetics with modern convenience while preserving the home’s timeless appeal.

Understanding the Challenges of Historic Kitchens

Historic townhouse kitchens often come with a set of challenges, including:

Limited Space: Many older townhouses were not designed with open-concept kitchens, leading to smaller, confined cooking areas.
Outdated Layouts: Inefficient layouts can make it difficult to incorporate modern appliances and improve workflow.
Aging Infrastructure: Electrical, plumbing, and structural issues may need upgrading to meet modern building codes and support contemporary appliances.
Preservation Guidelines: Some historic districts in D.C. have specific regulations that homeowners must adhere to when making renovations.

Blending Traditional and Modern Elements

Successfully remodeling a historic townhouse kitchen requires a thoughtful approach that respects the home’s character while introducing modern functionality. Here are some strategies to achieve the perfect balance:

1. Preserve Original Architectural Details

Maintaining original features such as exposed brick walls, crown molding, or vintage cabinetry can preserve the character of the home. If restoration is needed, consider refinishing existing materials rather than replacing them entirely.

2. Incorporate Modern, Energy-Efficient Appliances

Modern appliances that blend seamlessly with traditional aesthetics are widely available. Consider panel-ready refrigerators and dishwashers that can be customized to match cabinetry, or retro-inspired appliances that provide modern performance with a classic look.

3. Optimize Space with Smart Design

Space-saving solutions like pull-out pantry shelves, under-cabinet lighting, and multi-functional islands can maximize storage and improve functionality without compromising style. Opting for custom cabinetry that fits the unique dimensions of the townhouse can also help make the most of limited space.

4. Select Period-Appropriate Materials

Choose materials that complement the historic character of the home while offering durability and modern performance. Natural stone countertops, classic subway tiles, and shaker-style cabinetry can create a timeless yet functional kitchen design.

5. Integrate Smart Technology Discreetly

Modern technology doesn’t have to detract from a historic kitchen’s charm. Under-the-counter appliances, hidden outlets, and smart lighting systems can offer convenience without altering the traditional aesthetics of the space.

Working with Experienced Professionals

Remodeling a historic townhouse kitchen requires the expertise of professionals who understand both preservation guidelines and modern construction techniques. Working with experienced architects, designers, and contractors ensures that the project meets both aesthetic and functional goals.

Updating a historic townhouse kitchen in Washington, D.C. presents a rewarding opportunity to blend old-world charm with contemporary living. By carefully selecting materials, preserving key architectural features, and incorporating smart design elements, homeowners can enjoy a beautiful, functional kitchen that respects the past while embracing the future.

Contact Pace to get started!

Discover 2025’s Hottest Home Remodeling Trends

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 18:31:37 GMT

Discover 2025’s Hottest Home Remodeling Trends

As we step into 2025, homeowners are looking for innovative ways to enhance their living spaces. Whether you're planning a full-scale renovation or just a few updates, staying on top of the latest trends can help you create a home that's stylish, functional, and future-proof. From sustainable materials to smart technology, let's explore the hottest home remodeling trends that will dominate 2025.

1. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials

Sustainability continues to be a driving force in home remodeling. In 2025, expect to see an increased use of recycled and reclaimed materials, energy-efficient appliances, and sustainable flooring options like bamboo and cork. Homeowners are prioritizing materials that reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining style and durability.

Trending Choices:

Reclaimed wood for flooring and accent walls
Energy-efficient LED lighting
Low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and finishes

2. Biophilic Design

Bringing the outdoors inside remains a strong trend in 2025. Biophilic design focuses on incorporating natural elements into the home to create a soothing and healthy environment. Large windows, indoor gardens, and living walls are becoming staple features, promoting a connection with nature and improving indoor air quality.

Key Features:

Floor-to-ceiling windows
Houseplants and vertical gardens
Natural stone and wood accents

3. Smart Home Integration

Technology is revolutionizing home design, and 2025 will see even more advanced smart home features. From voice-activated lighting to AI-powered home assistants, integrating technology for convenience and efficiency is a top priority for homeowners.

Popular Innovations:

Smart thermostats and lighting systems
Security cameras with facial recognition
Automated window treatments

4. Flexible and Multi-Functional Spaces

With the rise of remote work and changing lifestyles, homes are becoming more adaptable. In 2025, homeowners will seek out flexible spaces that can serve multiple functions, such as home offices that double as guest rooms or living rooms that convert into workout spaces.

Ideas to Consider:

Modular furniture and storage solutions
Sliding partitions for adaptable layouts
Built-in Murphy beds for guest accommodations

5. Maximalist Aesthetics

Minimalism has had its moment, but 2025 welcomes the return of bold and vibrant maximalist designs. Rich colors, intricate patterns, and layered textures will take center stage, allowing homeowners to express their personality and creativity through decor.

Trending Elements:

Bold wallpaper patterns
Mix-and-match textiles and colors
Statement furniture pieces

6. Outdoor Living Expansion

Outdoor spaces are becoming extensions of the home, with more emphasis on comfort and functionality. In 2025, outdoor kitchens, cozy seating areas, and weather-resistant entertainment setups will be highly sought after, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor living.

Popular Features:

Pergolas with integrated lighting
Outdoor fire pits and heating elements
Sustainable landscaping with native plants

7. Wellness-Focused Spaces

Health and wellness will take center stage in home design. Homeowners are looking to create environments that promote relaxation and well-being, with features like spa-inspired bathrooms, meditation nooks, and fitness-friendly layouts.

Wellness Upgrades:

Steam showers and soaking tubs
Air purification systems
Dedicated meditation or yoga rooms

8. Retro and Vintage Revival

Nostalgia is making a comeback in 2025, with homeowners embracing retro and vintage styles. Expect to see mid-century modern furniture, nostalgic color palettes, and vintage-inspired appliances making their way into contemporary homes.

Design Inspirations:

Checkerboard flooring
Vintage lighting fixtures
Bold geometric prints

9. Personalized Kitchens

Kitchens are becoming more than just a place to cook; they are social hubs customized to fit the homeowner's lifestyle. Expect personalized touches such as custom cabinetry, mixed materials, and statement islands.

Kitchen Trends:

Two-toned cabinetry
Smart appliances with customization features
Open shelving with curated displays

10. Bold Color Palettes

Neutral tones are taking a backseat as vibrant and mood-boosting colors dominate home design in 2025. Deep blues, emerald greens, and warm terracottas will be popular choices to add character and warmth to spaces.

Popular Shades:

Earthy terracotta tones
Jewel-toned accents
Dark, moody hues for dramatic impact

As you plan your next home remodeling project, consider incorporating these exciting trends to create a space that is not only stylish but also functional and future-ready. Whether it's embracing technology or reviving vintage aesthetics, 2025 is all about making your home truly your own.

Contact Pace to get started!

How to Maximize Your Home’s Square Footage with a Basement Remodel

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 17:56:45 GMT

How to Maximize Your Home’s Square Footage with a Basement Remodel

A basement remodel is one of the most effective ways to expand your living space and increase the overall value of your home. Often overlooked, this underutilized area holds enormous potential. By transforming your basement into a functional and stylish space, you can gain the extra room you need without the expense and hassle of a full home addition.

1. Define the Purpose of Your Basement Remodel

Before diving into construction, consider what you need most from the extra square footage. Do you need a cozy family room, a home office, a guest suite, or a fitness area? Clearly defining the purpose of the space will guide your design decisions and help you allocate your budget effectively.

2. Address Potential Challenges

Basements often come with unique challenges such as low ceilings, moisture issues, and limited natural light. Here’s how you can tackle these common problems:

Ceiling Height: Choose low-profile lighting and avoid drop ceilings if you’re working with limited height. Exposed beams painted a light color can add character and create a sense of openness.
Moisture Control: Waterproofing is key. Install a sump pump if necessary, seal cracks in the foundation, and consider a dehumidifier to maintain a dry environment.
Natural Light: Maximize light by installing larger egress windows or glass doors if possible. Use light paint colors and mirrors to reflect light and brighten the space.

3. Plan a Functional Layout

The layout of your basement is crucial to its usability. Divide the space into zones based on your goals—for example, a seating area for relaxing, a workspace for productivity, and a storage nook. Incorporate open-concept elements to prevent the space from feeling confined.

4. Add Comfortable Finishes

To make the basement feel inviting, use high-quality finishes that you would choose for the main levels of your home. Consider these design tips:

Flooring: Choose moisture-resistant flooring such as luxury vinyl planks, tile, or engineered hardwood.
Lighting: Layer your lighting with recessed lights, floor lamps, and decorative fixtures.
Wall Treatments: Add texture with wainscoting, accent walls, or built-in shelving to create a visually interesting environment.

5. Incorporate Smart Storage Solutions

Basements often become cluttered catch-all spaces. Avoid this by integrating smart storage solutions into your design. Install built-in cabinets, floating shelves, or furniture with hidden storage compartments. This will help you maintain an organized and functional space.

6. Ensure Proper Insulation and HVAC

Basements can be prone to temperature fluctuations. Proper insulation and HVAC integration will keep the space comfortable year-round. Insulate walls, ceilings, and floors to improve energy efficiency, and consider extending your home’s heating and cooling system or adding a mini-split system.

7. Include Multi-Functional Spaces

To maximize your square footage, design areas that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a guest room can double as a home office by using a fold-out desk and a Murphy bed. A media room can function as both a lounge area and a playroom.

8. Add an Entertainment or Recreational Feature

Make the remodeled basement a standout feature of your home by adding an entertainment area or a unique touch. Consider including a wet bar, a home theater, a game room, or a fitness studio to create a space you’ll love spending time in.

9. Focus on Safety and Building Codes

Before you start construction, ensure your remodel meets local building codes. Pay special attention to fire safety, egress windows for bedrooms, and proper electrical and plumbing installations. Working with a licensed contractor will ensure your basement remodel is both safe and compliant.

10. Plan for Long-Term Value

Lastly, consider how your remodel will add long-term value to your home. A well-designed basement can significantly increase your home’s resale value and appeal to potential buyers. Focus on creating a space that is versatile, comfortable, and visually appealing.

A basement remodel is a game-changer when it comes to maximizing your home’s square footage. With thoughtful planning and smart design choices, you can transform an overlooked space into a stylish, functional area that meets your family’s needs. Whether you’re adding a home theater, a cozy guest suite, or a spacious home gym, your remodeled basement can enhance your lifestyle and increase your home’s value.

Contact Pace to get started!

Top Home Remodeling Trends for 2025

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 19:10:02 GMT

Top Home Remodeling Trends for 2025

As we step into 2025, homeowners are embracing innovative ways to enhance their living spaces. Whether you're planning a small update or a full-scale renovation, these remodeling trends will inspire you to create a home that is stylish, functional, and sustainable. Let's dive into the top home remodeling trends for 2025.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials

Sustainability remains at the forefront of home design. From reclaimed wood for flooring to recycled glass countertops, eco-friendly materials are being incorporated into every aspect of remodeling. Homeowners are also opting for energy-efficient windows, solar panels, and appliances to reduce their carbon footprint while cutting long-term utility costs.

Bold Bathroom Designs

Bathrooms are no longer just utilitarian spaces. In 2025, bold design choices like dark cabinetry, statement lighting, and unique tile patterns are taking center stage. Features like curbless showers, floating vanities, and spa-like soaking tubs are also popular, blending luxury with functionality.

Multifunctional Spaces

As hybrid work continues to thrive, homes are evolving to accommodate multifunctional spaces. Expect to see more home offices that double as guest rooms, basements transformed into media centers, and kitchens with integrated dining areas. Flexibility in design ensures that every square foot is maximized.

Natural Light and Biophilic Design

Bringing the outdoors in is a trend that’s here to stay. Large windows, skylights, and glass doors are being installed to flood spaces with natural light. Additionally, incorporating natural elements like indoor plants, water features, and wood textures creates a calming, nature-inspired atmosphere.

Smart Home Integration

Smart home technology is becoming an essential part of remodeling projects. From app-controlled lighting and security systems to smart thermostats and appliances, homeowners are seeking convenience and efficiency. Voice-activated controls and energy-monitoring devices are also gaining popularity, allowing users to seamlessly manage their homes.

Personalized Kitchens

Kitchens in 2025 are all about personality and functionality. Custom cabinetry in bold colors, such as deep green or navy, paired with unique backsplashes and open shelving, is a major trend. Quartz countertops and smart kitchen gadgets are also in demand, making cooking and entertaining more enjoyable.

Textured Walls and Ceilings

Flat walls and ceilings are giving way to textured finishes. From Venetian plaster and shiplap to bold wallpaper and wooden beams, these details add depth and character to any space. Accent walls with creative patterns or materials can make a big statement.

A Focus on Outdoor Living

Outdoor spaces are being transformed into extensions of the home. Think outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and cozy seating areas. With durable and weather-resistant materials, these spaces are designed for year-round enjoyment. Adding greenery through vertical gardens and pergolas enhances the overall ambiance.

Wellness-Centered Design

Health and wellness have become a priority in home design. Features like air purifiers, non-toxic paints, and ergonomic furniture are being incorporated to create healthier living environments. Home gyms, meditation spaces, and saunas are also trending as people focus on self-care.

Vintage and Modern Fusion

Mixing old and new is a hallmark of 2025's design aesthetic. Vintage furniture, antique light fixtures, and classic architectural details are being paired with sleek, modern elements. This blend creates a timeless yet fresh look that’s full of character.

The home remodeling trends for 2025 reflect a desire for spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional, sustainable, and tailored to individual needs. Whether you’re planning a small upgrade or a major renovation, these ideas can help you create a home that aligns with your lifestyle and values.

Contact Pace to get started!

The Ultimate Guide to Designing a Quiet Kitchen

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 19:17:38 GMT

The Ultimate Guide to Designing a Quiet Kitchen

A kitchen isn’t just a place for cooking — it’s a hub of daily life, family gatherings, and personal reflection. But with clattering dishes, noisy appliances, and visual chaos, the kitchen can be one of the most disruptive rooms in the house. Imagine, instead, a kitchen that looks serene and stays silent. Welcome to the world of the “Quiet Kitchen.”

What is a "Quiet Kitchen"?

A "Quiet Kitchen" is a thoughtfully designed space that minimizes both visual and auditory noise. It’s a sanctuary where calmness reigns supreme, allowing for a more peaceful, functional, and stress-free environment. This concept isn’t just about soundproofing — it’s about creating a sense of calm through aesthetics, layout, and sensory design.

Whether you’re preparing a family meal or enjoying a cup of tea in solitude, a Quiet Kitchen enhances the experience. This approach is especially important in today’s open-concept homes, where kitchen sounds and sights can spill over into living areas.

5 Key Elements of a Quiet Kitchen

Designing a Quiet Kitchen requires attention to five essential elements: Look, Motion, Clutter, Lighting, and Noise. Let’s break down each one.

1. Look: Minimalist Design and Clean Aesthetics

A visually quiet kitchen features clean lines, neutral color palettes, and a clutter-free design. The focus is on simplicity and order.

Neutral Tones: Stick with soft, earthy hues like whites, creams, and muted grays or greens to create a calming effect.
Seamless Cabinetry: Opt for handleless cabinets with soft-close mechanisms for a smooth, uninterrupted visual flow.
Natural Materials: Use wood, stone, and other organic materials that ground the space in nature’s calm.

2. Motion: Soft-Closing Everything

The way your kitchen’s features move can have a significant impact on the overall tranquility. Incorporate soft-close technology wherever possible.

Cabinets and Drawers: Soft-close hinges and drawer slides eliminate the harsh slam of traditional cabinetry.
Appliance Doors: Choose ovens, dishwashers, and refrigerators with quiet open/close functionality.
Pull-out Shelves: Reduce the need to rummage through deep cabinets with pull-out shelving systems.

3. Clutter: Hidden Storage for a Clean Space

Countertop clutter is visual noise, and eliminating it is key to a serene kitchen.

Appliance Garages: Store everyday appliances like toasters and blenders behind closed doors.
Integrated Storage: Custom cabinetry that hides spice racks, knife blocks, and waste bins keeps the counters clear.
Pull-out Pantries: Full-extension pantry shelves offer better organization, reducing the stress of searching for ingredients.

4. Lighting: Soften the Glow

Harsh lighting can make a kitchen feel sterile and jarring. Aim for warm, even illumination that soothes the senses.

Layered Lighting: Combine overhead, task, and accent lighting to create a balanced glow.
Dimmable Fixtures: Install dimmers on lights so you can adjust brightness depending on the time of day or activity.
Under-Cabinet Lighting: Soft, under-cabinet LED strips add ambiance and improve visibility for tasks.

5. Noise: Silence the Sounds

Reducing kitchen noise is crucial to achieving tranquility, especially in open-concept homes.

Quiet Appliances: Choose low-decibel dishwashers, range hoods, and refrigerators.
Acoustic Panels: Install sound-absorbing panels on walls or ceilings to reduce echoes.
Soft Materials: Rugs, mats, and upholstered dining chairs help absorb sound naturally.

Must-Have Design Features for a Visually Quiet Space

To achieve a visually quiet kitchen, focus on these key design features:

Integrated Appliances: Refrigerators, dishwashers, and microwaves can be concealed behind custom cabinetry for a unified look.
Streamlined Backsplash: Large, uninterrupted backsplash materials (like a single sheet of quartz) eliminate grout lines that can visually "clutter" the space.
Handle-Free Cabinetry: Push-to-open cabinets or recessed handles create a sleek, minimalist look.
Continuous Countertops: Use a single slab for the kitchen island and counters to avoid seams and joints that disrupt visual flow.

Benefits of a Quiet Kitchen for Modern Living

Reduced Stress and Anxiety: A serene kitchen creates a sense of calm, reducing daily stress and fostering mindful living.
Better Focus and Mindfulness: By eliminating sensory overload, you can focus on cooking, conversation, or quiet reflection.
Harmonized Open-Concept Spaces: In open-plan homes, a quiet kitchen ensures the living and dining areas remain serene as well.
Enhanced Home Value: Potential buyers recognize the appeal of a calm, modern kitchen that’s as beautiful as it is functional.
More Enjoyable Cooking Experience: With less noise and visual distraction, cooking becomes a more enjoyable, almost meditative process.

Ready to Design Your Quiet Kitchen?

Your dream of a serene, quiet kitchen is within reach. Our expert kitchen designers are here to bring it to life. Schedule a consultation with a Pace kitchen designer today and take the first step toward a calmer, more functional kitchen space.

Contact Pace to get started!

How to Be a Good Neighbor During a Remodel

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 17:35:44 GMT

How to Be a Good Neighbor During a Remodel

Embarking on a remodel is an exciting journey –it’s fun transforming your space into the home of your dreams. However, amidst the excitement, it’s easy to overlook the impact that construction can have on your neighbors. At PACE, we understand how important it is to maintain harmony in the community while pursuing your renovation goals. Here are some essential tips to ensure that your remodeling project is smooth and considerate to those around you.

Communicate Early and Often

One of the best ways to ease any apprehension your neighbors may have about your remodel is to communicate with them upfront. A simple conversation can go a long way in fostering goodwill. Share your renovation plans, timeframe, and any potential disruptions they might expect. Knowing that you care about their comfort can help alleviate concerns.

Set Clear Schedule Expectations

When planning your remodel, establish a clear schedule that minimizes disturbances during early mornings or late evenings. Sharing your construction schedule with your neighbors not only keeps them informed but also gives them the chance to plan around any potential disruptions.

Keep the Workspace Tidy

A clean construction site is less likely to disrupt the neighborhood ambiance. Ensure that your contractors keep the work area organized, as debris and clutter can negatively affect your neighbors’ enjoyment of their space. Regularly check in on the site to make sure that it remains tidy throughout the process.

Offer Consideration for Parking

Remodeling projects often involve various contractors and their vehicles which can contribute to increased parking demand. Coordinate with your team to ensure that parking is managed responsibly. Encourage your contractors to use designated parking areas and, if needed, communicate with your neighbors about potential parking changes.

Provide Updates

Keeping your neighbors informed about the progress of your remodel can be a nice touch. If there are any changes to the schedule or unexpected delays, let them know. Offering updates can demonstrate your respect for their time and space, helping to build a better sense of community.

Show Gratitude

Once your project is complete, take a moment to express your gratitude to your neighbors for their patience and understanding during your remodel. A small gesture, like a thank-you note or even a get-together, can reinforce positive relationships moving forward.

Being considerate toward your neighbors and proactive in your approach, ensures that your remodeling project remains a pleasant experience for everyone involved. If you’re looking to start your remodel, get in touch with us today! We’re here to help you create the space you’ve always wanted while fostering a sense of community along the way.

Contact Pace to get started!

To DIY or Not to DIY? That’s the Remodeling Question

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 15:44:26 GMT

To DIY or Not to DIY? That’s the Remodeling Question

When it comes to remodeling your home, the allure of a DIY project can be strong. The idea of saving money, flexing your creative muscles, and achieving a personalized space all on your own is appealing. But before you grab the toolbox, it’s worth considering the full scope of your project and asking yourself one key question: Should I DIY this, or is it time to call in the pros?

The appeal of diy

Cost Savings Let’s face it: labor costs can make up a substantial portion of your remodeling budget. The promise of saving money by doing the work yourself is a major draw. If you’re handy with tools and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, tackling a project on your own can be a great way to cut costs.
Personal Touch & Control When you’re in charge of the project, you’re in full control of every detail, from the materials you choose to the design itself. For some homeowners, this is the most satisfying part of a remodel—bringing your own vision to life and knowing that every decision is 100% your own.
Learning Experience For many, DIY is a way to gain new skills. You might not have been a plumber or an electrician before you started your remodel, but you may walk away from the project with a newfound understanding of how things work in your home.

the reality of diy remodeling

While DIY can seem like a good way to save money and gain experience, the reality is often more complicated. Here’s what you may face:

Time Commitment What may seem like a weekend project can quickly turn into weeks (or even months) of your time. Depending on the complexity of the remodel, you could find yourself taking longer than expected, leaving your home in a state of disarray. Professional contractors can complete projects on time and within budget—something that’s harder to do when you’re juggling other commitments like work, family, and life.
Unexpected Problems It’s easy to underestimate the number of hidden issues that can arise during a remodel. Old plumbing, electrical issues, or structural problems might be lurking behind your walls, ready to throw a wrench in your plans. Without the expertise to identify these potential issues early, you could end up causing more damage or facing unexpected costs.
Skill Gaps While you might be capable of installing a new backsplash or painting a wall, some remodeling tasks require specialized knowledge. Electrical work, plumbing, and structural changes aren’t areas where cutting corners is wise. Mistakes in these areas can be dangerous or costly—leading to repairs that may end up exceeding the cost of hiring a pro in the first place.
Building Codes & Permits Many home renovation projects require permits and adherence to local building codes. Navigating these regulations can be a headache, especially if you're unfamiliar with the process. A professional contractor like Pace Design and Construction is not only familiar with local codes but will handle all the paperwork for you, ensuring that your project is up to code and passes inspection without a hitch.

when to call in the professionals

There are certain remodeling projects that are best left to the experts. Here are a few situations where hiring a professional design and construction team is the smartest choice:

Structural Changes : Moving walls, altering the layout of your space, or anything that impacts the foundation or structural integrity of your home requires a pro. These types of changes involve complex planning and permits—and mistakes here can be costly and dangerous.
Plumbing & Electrical Work : Electrical work, plumbing, or anything involving your HVAC system should be handled by licensed professionals. Incorrect installations can be not only costly but dangerous, risking everything from water damage to electrical fires.
Complex Design Elements : Projects that require high levels of craftsmanship—such as custom cabinetry, intricate tiling, or precision flooring installation—are best handled by professionals who bring the experience, tools, and attention to detail needed for a flawless finish.
Time & Budget Constraints : If you're on a tight schedule or budget, a professional contractor can often get the job done more efficiently, preventing the unexpected delays and added costs that come with DIY mistakes.

The Pace Design and Construction Approach

At Pace Design and Construction, we understand the desire to get involved in the creative process, but we also know the importance of getting things done right the first time. We work closely with homeowners to bring their visions to life—offering expert advice, design guidance, and skilled craftsmanship every step of the way.

so should you diy?

The answer really depends on the scope of your project, your skill set, and how much time you’re willing to invest. For smaller updates—like painting a room, installing new light fixtures, or adding a backsplash—DIY can be a great option. But for larger, more complex renovations, calling in a professional like Pace Design and Construction can save you time, money, and the headaches of dealing with unexpected issues.

If you’re unsure where to start or whether your project is a good candidate for DIY, give us a call. We’d be happy to talk through your plans, offer expert advice, and help you decide on the best course of action for your home.

Contact Pace to get started!

Cozy Interior Design Trends for Fall

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 10:49:27 GMT

Cozy Interior Design Trends for Fall

As the seasons change, so do our interior design preferences. With the arrival of fall, it's the perfect time to explore cozy interior design trends that create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home. At Pace Design and Construction, we unde rstand the importance of a comfortable living space, and we're excited to share some trends that can help you achieve just that.

Incorporating Rich Colors:

One way to instantly add warmth to your home is by incorporating rich, earthy colors into your interior design. Deep burgundies, warm oranges, and dark greens can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, especially when used in accent pieces su ch as throw pillows, curtains, or rugs. These colors can also be incorporated into your wall paint or furniture upholstery to make a bold statement and set the tone for the season.

Layering Textures with Throws and Pillows:

Fall is the perfect time to embrace texture in your home decor. Adding layers of cozy throws and plush pillows to sofas, armchairs, and beds can instantly create a warm and inviting ambiance. Opt for soft knits, faux fur, and chunky woven textures to add depth and visual interest to your living spaces. Not only do these textiles provide physical warmth, but they also contribute to a visually appealing and cozy aesthetic.

Rearranging Furniture for a Cozier Feel:

Consider rearranging your furniture to create a cozier and more intimate setting in your home. Bring seating closer together to encourage conversation and create a snug atmosphere. Placing furniture near the fireplace, if you have one, can further enhance the sense of warmth and comfort. Additionally, consider incorporating versatile pieces such as ottomans or poufs that can serve as both extra seating and as footrests, adding to the overall comfort of your space.

At Pace Design and Construction, we believe that a well-designed interior should not only be visually appealing but also conducive to comfort and relaxation. By incorporating these cozy interior design trends, you can transform your home into a welcoming retreat that embraces the spirit of fall. If you are ready to make more permanent updates to your home that enhance its coziness and functionality, our team is here to help you bring your vision to life. Embrace the warmth and comfort of fall with our expert design and construction services.

Contact Pace to get started!

Airflow in the Home

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 17:27:31 GMT

Airflow in the Home

Checking for good airflow in your home is an essential part of maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient living space. Poor airflow can lead to many issues, including stagnant air, uneven temperatures, and increased energy costs. Whether you're in the process of renovating your home or just want to optimize airflow, here are some tips to help you ensure good airflow and decrease energy costs.

Keep air vents and registers unobstructed

One simple way to check for good airflow in your home is to make sure that all air vents and registers are free of obstructions. Furniture, rugs, and other items placed over vents can impede airflow, so it's essential to keep these areas clear to allow air to circulate freely.

Use a draft detector

A draft detector can help you identify areas where air may be leaking into or out of your home. Common culprits for air leaks include doors, windows, and electrical outlets. Sealing these areas with weather-stripping or caulking can help improve airflow and prevent energy loss.

Maintain your HVAC system

Regular maintenance of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is crucial for ensuring good airflow. Replace air filters as recommended, and schedule professional inspections to keep your system running efficiently.

Consider a fresh air intake

Incorporating a fresh air intake into your home's HVAC system can help improve airflow and indoor air quality. A fresh air intake allows outside air to be drawn into the system, providing a constant supply of fresh air while maintaining energy efficiency.

Utilize ceiling fans

Ceiling fans can help promote good airflow by circulating air throughout your home. In the summer, set your fans to run counterclockwise to help cool the room, and in the winter, run them clockwise at a low speed to help distribute warm air more evenly.

When renovating your home, you have the opportunity to build good airflow into your plans from the beginning. Here are some strategies to consider:

Strategic window placement:

When possible, position windows to take advantage of natural ventilation. Cross-ventilation, which involves placing windows on opposing walls to create a path for air to flow through a room, can help promote fresh airflow without relying solely on mechanical systems.

Install exhaust fans

In areas prone to moisture buildup, such as bathrooms and kitchens, installing exhaust fans can help remove stale air and improve overall airflow. Proper ventilation in these spaces can also prevent mold and mildew growth.

Consider a ductless mini-split system

Ductless mini-split HVAC systems offer an efficient way to control the temperature in specific zones of your home. By allowing for customized climate control, these systems can help optimize airflow and decrease energy costs by avoiding the energy loss associated with traditional ductwork. A heat pump may also be an option for your home.

By paying attention to airflow in your home and implementing strategies to improve it, you can enjoy a more comfortable living environment and reduce your energy consumption. Good airflow not only enhances indoor air quality but also contributes to lower energy costs, making it a worthwhile investment for any homeowner. Contact Pace to get started!

Transform Your Home: The Benefits of an Open-Concept Kitchen Design

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 00:42:35 GMT

Transform Your Home: The Benefits of an Open-Concept Kitchen Design

No one should ever be frustrated in their kitchen, but the thought of building an addition can be overwhelming. Plus, it's not even an option for some due to local zoning restrictions, space, layout, and other constraints. Fortunately, you do not have to build on an addition to make your kitchen feel more spacious. Enter an open-concept kitchen design.

Exactly What Is an Open-Concept Kitchen?

As the term suggests, an open-kitchen concept minimizes or eliminates interior walls; most of the time, one removes the divider between a kitchen and either a dining or living room. Formal dining rooms are becoming a rarity because most homeowners in Washington DC discover they rarely use them. Open kitchens sometimes breathe new life into such underused spaces by rolling up the kitchen and dining room into one area.

Five Perks of an Open-Concept Kitchen

A roomy open-concept kitchen design for your home in Washington DC offers more than just a pleasing appearance:

1. Seamless Socializing : You can whip up your favorite dishes while chatting with family or entertaining guests.

2. Enhanced Traffic Flow : Open layouts create a more spacious feel and facilitate better movement throughout your home.

3. Brighter Spaces : Removing walls can transform a once-dark kitchen into a bright, airy haven.

4. Versatility : An open kitchen serves multiple purposes, from daily routines to special occasions.

5. Efficient Layout: With more room to move, your kitchen becomes a functional, enjoyable space.

Above all, an open-concept kitchen brings more joy to your daily life. The real value of a kitchen remodel lies in the happiness it brings to homeowners. If an open design aligns with your needs and aesthetic tastes, it's time to consider a remodel for your home in Washington DC. These layouts create a modern, versatile environment that boosts property value, appeals to various buyer preferences, and fosters a sense of connection among families. An open-concept kitchen truly elevates the overall living experience.

If you are ready to get started with an open-concept kitchen design, get in touch with Pace today to get started!

Design-Build vs. Traditional Contractors: Why Choose Pace Design and Construction?

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:27:28 GMT

Design-Build vs. Traditional Contractors: Why Choose Pace Design and Construction?

When it comes to bringing your construction project to life, choosing the right approach can make all the difference in achieving your vision. At Pace Design and Construction, we specialize in Design-Build, a streamlined method that integrates the design and construction phases to make the process efficient and effective. Let’s explore how Pace stands out by seamlessly transitioning from design to construction vs. traditional contracting methods.

Integrated Excellence from Concept to Completion

Design-Build is more than just a project delivery method; it’s a collaborative journey where Pace Design and Construction serves as your single point of contact throughout the process. From initial concept and architectural design to construction and final touches, our team works cohesively to ensure the details align with your vision and objectives.

Advantages of Design-Build with Pace:

1. Streamlined Communication: With Design-Build, communication breakdowns are reduced. Our integrated team fosters open dialogue and real-time problem-solving, ensuring clarity and efficiency from start to finish.

2. Enhanced Collaboration: By combining design and construction expertise under one roof, Pace promotes a unified approach. This integration allows for innovative solutions, smart engineering, and easy-to-manage project management.

3. Efficiency and Accountability: Clients benefit from accelerated project timelines and less administrative burden. Our comprehensive oversight ensures that every aspect of the project, from scheduling to budgeting, is meticulously managed with a focus on quality and satisfaction.

Traditional contracting methods typically involve separate entities for design and construction. This often results in fragmented communication, potential delays, and added complexities in coordinating between multiple parties.

Why Choose Pace Design and Construction Over Traditional Contractors?

Single-Source Responsibility: Unlike traditional methods where responsibilities are divided, Pace assumes full accountability for the project. This holistic approach minimizes risks and maximizes efficiency and ease of execution.

Consistent Quality Assurance: With Pace, you can expect consistent quality throughout every stage of your project. Our rigorous standards and attention to detail ensure that craftsmanship and materials meet the highest industry standards.

Making the Right Choice for Your Project

At Pace, we are committed to delivering exceptional results tailored to your unique needs. Our goal is to make your remodel easy- while enriching your quality of life. The Design-Build expertise ensures a smooth and successful construction experience.

Choosing between Design-Build and traditional contracting methods ultimately depends on your goals, timeline, and complexity. At Pace Design and Construction, we are dedicated to providing clarity and confidence in your decision-making process. Experience the difference of integrated excellence with Pace.

Ready to turn your construction dreams into reality? Contact Pace Design and Construction to learn more. Let’s build something exceptional together.

Keeping Your Home Cool

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:32:19 GMT

keeping your home cool

Summer is here, and all of us around Washington, DC from Hill East, to Georgetown, to Cathedral Heights, and anywhere in between are thinking about how to stay cool and comfortable during the hot months. One essential part of keeping cool is making sure your air conditioning system is in tip-top shape. In honor of National Air Conditioning Day on July 17th, it's a perfect time to talk about the importance of air conditioning maintenance and how to know when it's time for an upgrade.

Maintaining your air conditioning system is crucial for its performance and longevity. Regular maintenance not only ensures that your AC operates efficiently, but it also helps prevent costly breakdowns. Simple tasks like replacing air filters, cleaning the coils, and checking the refrigerant levels can go a long way in keeping your system running smoothly. Scheduling an annual professional inspection is also a great way to identify and address any potential issues before they turn into major problems.

National Air Conditioning Day, July 17th, serves as a reminder of the incredible impact that air conditioning has had on our lives. It has revolutionized the way we live, work, and relax, especially during the scorching summer months.

Despite regular maintenance, there comes a time when it's more cost-effective to upgrade to a new, more energy-efficient air conditioning system. If you notice that your current system struggles to cool your home, requires frequent repairs, or results in high energy bills, it might be time to consider a replacement or a supplemental ductless unit. Newer models are not only more efficient but also come with advanced features such as smart thermostats, better air filtration, and variable-speed technology, providing improved comfort and energy savings.

Taking care of your air conditioning system through regular maintenance and knowing when it's time for an upgrade will ensure a cool and comfortable living environment. Stay cool and stay informed and get in touch with PACE to schedule maintenance or talk about an upgrade!

How to Finance a Renovation

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 18:59:02 GMT

how to finance a renovation

Embarking on a home renovation project is an exciting endeavor, but one of the most important aspects of turning your vision into reality is securing the right financing. Whether you're planning a small remodeling project or a major overhaul, navigating the world of home renovation financing can be daunting. Financing is a vital piece of the puzzle in preparing for your home renovation. When it comes to loans and who to work with there are several options.

financing with equity

Borrowing against home equity typically involves either taking out a second mortgage or refinancing your existing mortgage to access the funds needed for a home remodeling project. Given the rise in DC home prices over time , many homeowners have a good share of equity in their home after 7 years which is generally when homeowners are ready to remodel some aspect of their home. This option often offers the benefit of lower interest rates, and the interest paid on home equity loans or lines of credit is tax-deductible when used for home improvements.

When opting for equity financing, it's important to note that the lender typically requires a home appraisal to determine the property's current market value. Additionally, borrowers may need to cover closing costs associated with the loan.

Home equity line of credit

A HELOC is a credit line that allows you to borrow funds as needed with minimum payments required only for the amount you borrow. The maximum HELOC amount can be up to 85% of your home's value minus your outstanding mortgage balance. The interest rates are usually variable, meaning your monthly payments can fluctuate based on changes in the interest rate. Typically, you have 10 years to utilize the funds from a HELOC and an additional 20 years to repay the remaining balance.

home equity loan

Similar to a HELOC, a home equity loan enables you to borrow up to roughly 90% of your home’s value, minus your existing mortgage balance. The distinguishing factor is that you'll receive the entire amount in a single payment and repay it over a period that is typically 30 years or less. These loans come with fixed interest rates and monthly repayment obligations.

Cash out refinance

Cash-out refinancing replaces your existing mortgage with a larger one, and you receive the difference in cash to fund your renovation. This option is best if you need a large loan for a long-term home renovation, ideally with a lower interest rate than your current mortgage.

financing without equity

cash

Cash can be used to finance home renovations, which avoids the burden of interest payments and ensures a debt-free completion of the project. Making improvements to your home generally increases the value of the home. The Cost vs. Value report collects data on the cost of improvements and the value created from those improvements. Usually, the value created is about 75% of the investment. In the Washington DC area there is almost always a 100% ROI over the 7 years following a renovation.

Regularly allocating a portion of your monthly income for savings can gradually accumulate funds for upcoming home improvement projects and essential repairs. Spreading out the expenses over the renovation duration can assist in aligning the project with your budget. Cash financing makes sense when it does not hinder your other financial objectives or surpass your monthly budget limits.

personal loans

Unsecured personal loans provide a quick way for homeowners to finance projects, as most lenders can fund these loans within a week. This is in contrast to home equity financing, which involves time-consuming underwriting and appraisal processes.

At PACE, our goal is to improve the lives of our clients by enhancing the experience of living in D.C’s dynamic and thriving urban neighborhoods with quality and easy-to-manage renovations. Check out our resources to learn more and connect with the right contacts. Reach out today!

Here's to a successful and stress-free renovation journey!

What Would You Put in Your Dream Bath?

Tue, 28 May 2024 23:41:24 GMT

What Would You Put in Your Dream Bath?

Homeowners in various neighborhoods of Washington, DC like Capitol Hill, Georgetown, Columbia Heights, and more often ask our designers and showroom professionals what are the best things to put in a primary bath? Here is a list of some of our favorite features:

An in-home spa

Nothing beats having a personal refuge featuring fixtures such as a tub or shower that provides in-home spa experiences that may include steam, massage, color, sound and aroma therapies. Creating an in-home spa allows homeowners in Washington, DC to spend a few minutes a day away from emails, phone calls, and little feet to recharge their batteries, improve their health and well-being and rejuvenate tired minds and muscles.

Heated floors and towel bars

There are few more luxurious feelings than walking on a toasty floor on a cold evening or reaching for a warm, cozy towel as you leave a shower or bath. It’s an unparalleled spa-like luxury experience.

The right light

Homeowners in Capitol Hill can make personal and bold design statements with over-sized chandeliers, sculptural pendants and dramatic flush-mount lighting. Installing LED strips underneath vanities and along walkways virtually eliminate the inconvenience of disturbing a partner if you have to use your bathroom in the middle of the night. Integrated LED lighted mirrors provide even, glare-free task lighting for the vanity area allowing homeowners to ensure they always look their best.

Storage, storage and more storage

A well designed primary bath is an organized bath. There needs to be a place for towels, cosmetics, medicines, accessories, hair dryers, tooth brushes, etc. From gorgeous cabinetry to open shelves and everything in between, a dream bath has a place for everything and everything has a place.

Niches

Carve outs in the shower or tub area provide extra space for hair care products, soap, sponges and other products. It’s a little touch that makes a huge difference.

In drawer outlets

This can help create a clean and natural look and feel by eliminating the need for electric tooth brushes, hair dryers curling irons or other bathroom appliances from having to sit on the countertop or interact with water.

Smart showers

Smart showers with digital controls allow homeowners to use voice activation, smart phones or settings to set the exact water temperature, flow rate and therapies for individual family members.

High quality plumbing fixtures

Fixtures not only provide superior functionality, a near-lifetime of longevity but also an aesthetic that sets the tone for the entire bath.

What would you want in your dream bathroom? Get in touch and let us share the designs and products that we know bring homeowners in Washington, DC the most happiness.

Induction Cooking Paves the Wave of the Future

Wed, 15 May 2024 00:20:51 GMT

Induction Cooking Paves the Wave of the Future

Homeowners in Washington, DC planning to create a dream kitchen are gravitating to induction cooktops because of the variety of advantages they offer over traditional gas or electric options.

Unparalleled Safety and Precise Temperature Control

With induction, the cooking surface does not get hot - only the cookware does. This helps prevent accidental burns and fire hazards because nothing on the cooktop can ignite. Induction also allows for incredibly precise temperature control compared to gas or traditional electric cooktops perfect for the food lovers and home chefs on capitol hill.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Induction cooktops can be 90% more energy efficient than their traditional counterparts. They work by transferring energy directly to the cookware rather than wasting energy by heating the cooking surface first. This makes induction cooking far more energy efficient than gas or electric.

Greener and Cleaner Cooking Option

Because there's no open flame or hot coils, induction cooktops don't generate the toxic emissions or indoor air pollution issues of gas cooking. There are no grates to worry about either, making the cooktop easy to wipe clean.

The Cool Factor

Homeowners can opt to have burners incorporated into a countertop . There is no visible cooking surface until the cooktop is activated. It’s a great option for homeowners looking for clean lines and a wow factor in their home.

Fast Heating and Responsiveness

Induction cooktops heat pots and pans almost instantly and can boil water faster than a microwave. The rapid heat transfer gives unmatched control over cooking temperatures, which is why home chefs and avid foodies are so attracted to induction cooking.

One PACE client commented that the only problem with her new cooktop is that it is faster than she is!

Aesthetically Pleasing and Easy to Clean

Most induction cooktops have a sleek, modern look with smooth glass surfaces that can seamlessly blend into any new kitchen aesthetic. And because the surface doesn't get burning hot, spills and splatters wipe away easily without baked on messes.

If you are planning to create a dream kitchen and want to learn more about the many benefits of induction cooking get in touch with PACE!

Maximizing Your Return on a Kitchen Renovation

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 23:36:34 GMT

Maximizing your return on a kitchen renovation

Renovating your kitchen is one of the best investments homeowners in the Washington, DC area can make. A new kitchen adds significant value to your home and makes it more attractive to potential buyers. Most importantly, remodeling your kitchen results in countless cherished memories of family gatherings and quality time with friends.

Remember that at some point, your property will likely hit the market. That's why homeowners on Capitol Hill and other DC neighborhoods should consider the following guidelines to ensure maximum return on investment (ROI) for their kitchen remodel.

Prioritize Organization and Storage

A well-designed, clutter-free kitchen is not only appealing to current users but also to potential buyers. Invest in ample storage solutions and organizational tools to ensure every item has its place. Countertops should be clear, not functioning as makeshift pantries or workspaces. Consult with a professional designer to incorporate smart storage and organization strategies into your new kitchen layout.

Illuminate with Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a functional and inviting kitchen. Homeowners will be well-served working with a professional showroom designer to develop a comprehensive lighting plan that provides adequate task lighting for meal preparation areas and ambient lighting for a warm, welcoming ambiance.

Invest in Quality Cabinets and Countertops

These elements are the workhorses of your kitchen, enduring daily use and wear. Invest in high-quality cabinets and durable countertop materials like quartz or quartzite, which can withstand the test of time while offering a vast array of design options to complement your desired aesthetic.

Strike a Balance with Color

While bold, vibrant hues can infuse personality and joy into your kitchen, overly intense or trendy color schemes may alienate potential buyers down the line. Consider incorporating pops of color through accent pieces, backsplashes, or appliances to add visual interest without overwhelming the space.

Embrace Timeless Elegance

While staying true to your personal style, aim for a timeless design that will maintain its appeal for years to come. Incorporate classic elements and neutral tones that can adapt to changing trends, ensuring your kitchen remains fresh and desirable to future homeowners in Washington, DC.

Ready to create the kitchen of your dreams while maximizing your return on investment? Contact PACE today to begin your journey towards a stunning, functional, and valuable kitchen renovation.

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Energy Efficiency and Well-Being

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 19:43:32 GMT

energy efficiency and well-being

When planning your home renovations energy efficiency and well-being are two important factors to consider. By improving energy efficiency, you save money on utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint. On the other hand, creating a space that promotes well-being can have a positive impact on your mental and physical health. In a city like Washington, DC where space is often at a premium, it's crucial to prioritize your mental health and well-being in the limited space you have. Creating a living environment that promotes relaxation, comfort, and happiness can have a significant impact on your overall mental health. This can involve incorporating more natural light, improving indoor air quality, and creating a layout that encourages movement and socialization. By prioritizing both energy efficiency and well-being in your renovations, you can create a comfortable and sustainable home environment. Here are a few ideas to increase both efficiency and well-being.

Upgrade Systems

Upgrading to automatic home systems can bring many benefits to your household. These systems are designed to make your life easier, more convenient, and more efficient. Upgrades like smart thermostats, smart lighting, home security, smart appliances, and more can help you enjoy a more comfortable, convenient, and secure home environment while using less energy.

Consider Current Weaknesses

Upgrading systems can only have so many positive effects on efficiency if you are losing energy in other ways. One of the current weak spots in many homes is the inability to keep conditioned air in and other air out. This can lead to inefficiencies in heating and cooling systems, as well as increased energy costs. It may be worth considering improving insulation, sealing gaps around windows and doors, and investing in air purifiers to help address these issues. By reducing the amount of allergens, pollutants, and other harmful particles in the air you breathe, you can improve respiratory health, reduce allergy symptoms, and even boost your immune system. Maintaining a comfortable temperature and humidity level can also positively affect mood, sleep quality, and overall comfort. Taking steps to keep conditioned air in and other air out can not only save you money on energy costs, but also promote a healthier and more comfortable living environment for you and your family.

Water Quality

It is also vital to evaluate water quality and efficiency for well-being. To evaluate the water quality in your home, you can start by testing your water supply for various contaminants.Additionally, you can pay attention to the taste, color, and odor of your water to identify any potential issues. For example, if your water has a metallic taste or a brownish color, it could be an indication of high levels of iron or rust in your pipes. If your water smells like chlorine, it could be a sign of high chlorine levels in your water supply. Regular maintenance and cleaning of your plumbing system can also help ensure that your water quality is up to par. There is also the option to install a whole house water filtration system. Whole-house water filters can remove sediments, chlorine, volatile organic chemicals, and improve both taste and odor. This is an efficient and cost effective way to ensure your water stays clean.

Choose Partners that Prioritize Energy Efficiency

When selecting partners or contractors to work with during your home renovation project, it is essential to choose those who prioritize energy efficiency. This can include companies that use sustainable materials, offer energy-efficient products, and have a track record of delivering high-quality, eco-friendly results. By partnering with these types of businesses, you can ensure that your home renovation project is not only beautiful and functional but also promotes sustainability and energy efficiency. Working with partners who share your values can help you feel confident that your project is in good hands and that you're making a positive impact on the environment.

Prioritizing both energy efficiency and well-being is a great way to create a comfortable and sustainable living environment. By improving energy efficiency, you can save money on utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint. On the other hand, creating a space that promotes well-being can have a positive impact on your mental and physical health.

PACE Design and Constructions focuses on providing homeowners with sustainable and energy-efficient solutions for their homes. We understand the importance of creating a comfortable and healthy living environment that also promotes energy efficiency and sustainability with the ultimate goal of improving your life. Our team of experts can work closely with you to identify areas of your home that need improvement and recommend energy-efficient upgrades that can improve your home's comfort, sustainability, and overall well-being. The goal of a renovation is to improve your life. Energy-efficient upgrades that prioritize the well-being of your family are two ways to get there!

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The Keys to a Great Laundry Room

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 23:40:59 GMT

the keys to a great laundry room

Laundry is never a favorite chore, but there are ways to make it more enjoyable. Having space that makes it easy and more efficient to do laundry will improve your laundry experience. We have helped numerous homeowners in Washington D.C. convert space in their homes to a laundry haven. Here are the keys to creating a dream laundry room.

Ideally, the space should be at least 80 square feet if not larger. This accommodates a washer, dryer, hampers, storage cabinets, countertops and work surfaces, drying racks, sink, ironing board, and other features that homeowners in Washington D.C. want and need.

In rooms where space is at a premium, we often recommend stackable washers and dryers, pull-out hampers housed in cabinetry, front-loading appliances that can be located underneath a countertop, or a combination washer and dryer.

Having sufficient countertop and work surface space is another key to a well-designed laundry room. There should be adequate space to sort, fold, and iron laundry. For homeowners that do not need to iron frequently, we often suggest a pull-out ironing board as a space-saving option.

A well-designed laundry room is an organized laundry room with adequate storage solutions to house laundry detergent, fabric softeners, cleaning supplies, hampers, and baskets. Common storage solutions for laundry rooms include cabinets, drawers, shelves, baskets, and hampers. Homeowners in Washington D.C.gravitate toward pull-out divided hampers that provide designated areas for whites, darks, and colors housed in cabinets.

Quartz is a popular countertop for laundry rooms because of its durability and ease of maintenance. Other common countertop and work surface materials include stone, laminate, and ceramic. A deeper countertop provides adequate space for folding and sorting and space for a deep-basin utility sink that can be used for pre-treating stained clothing, hand-washing, and other tasks that can include bathing a dog.

A hanging rod and drying racks are additional must- haves in a well-designed laundry room for homeowners in Washington D.C. Drying racks can be installed inside of cabinets to provide a clean, clutter-free look to the laundry room. Hanging rods can be placed underneath overhead cabinets or from the ceiling. The key is to provide enough room to hang clothes freely. Clean lines can be enhanced by concealing hoses and appliance connections.

Laundry rooms need to be properly ventilated and well-lit to provide a combination of task and ambient lighting.

While homes on Capitol Hill often lack space for traditional laundry rooms we can explore creative solutions. What features and design elements should be part of your dream laundry room? Let’s explore how to get a dream laundry room in your home.

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Crafting Spectacular Small Kitchens: Maximizing Functionality and Beauty

Sat, 23 Mar 2024 20:51:04 GMT

Crafting Spectacular Small Kitchens: Maximizing Functionality and Beauty

Creating a dream kitchen within a smaller space is not just a possibility—it's a design challenge where PACE excels. Homeowners in Washington D.C. never have to compromise functionality or aesthetics simply because their kitchens have space limitations. We view smaller spaces as an opportunity to benefit from innovative solutions that maximize every inch of available space, resulting in kitchens that are both practical and visually stunning. A well designed house feels bigger than its counterpart since all of the space is working for the homeowner.

Key to achieving this balance is the concept of the work triangle—a foundational principle in kitchen design. By envisioning an imaginary straight line connecting the center of the sink, cooktop, and refrigerator, the triangle optimizes efficiency and functionality. This design concept minimizes the distance and time required to move between the primary work areas, ensuring seamless workflow in kitchens of any size. There are alternatives to the triangle design such as zoning. Depending on your kitchen, size and style (such as a galley layout), a triangle design may not always be possible. Zoning is a design alternative that can also keep your kitchen running smoothly.

In addition to optimizing the workflow, we prioritize storage solutions tailored to smaller spaces. When an island isn't feasible, we often consider u-shaped designs or peninsulas to provide ample storage and countertop space. Embracing multitasking principles, we select appliances and design features that enhance functionality without sacrificing space. Options may include:

Specifying countertops at seat height for dual-purpose dining and workspace.
Choosing multifunctional appliances like convertible refrigerators and combination ovens with versatile cooking capabilities.
Incorporating bar areas for organization and entertainment.
Implementing pullout pantries and nonstandard sized cabinets for efficient storage.
Extending cabinets to the ceiling and utilizing in-cabinet storage solutions such as vertical dividers and roll-out shelves.
Opting for smaller or alternative appliances to maximize space utilization.
Designing base cabinets with reduced depth to enhance floor space without compromising storage capacity.

Employing optical illusions with lighter colors, mirrors, and open shelving to create a sense of spaciousness.

These strategies, among others, empower homeowners in Washington D.C. to transform small kitchens into highly functional and aesthetic masterpieces. Whether you own a spacious row home in Georgetown, a one bedroom condo on Capitol Hill, or something in between, we invite you to explore the possibilities. Contact us , and let us turn your kitchen into a space that works for your home!

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Sleep, Health, and Remodeling

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:13:16 GMT

sleep, health, and remodeling

It is difficult to fully appreciate a good night's sleep until you no longer get it regularly. With the fast-paced speed of life in Washington DC, we all can appreciate a good night’s sleep. Once sleep is out of our grasp we often become desperate to get it back, willing to try anything to restore a long and complete good night's sleep. If you are someone who suffers from a lack of sleep, what would you do to get it back? Try remodeling!

Lack of sleep can have a profound impact on our health, mood, and overall quality of life. It can lead to decreased concentration, memory problems, irritability, and even depression. It can also weaken our immune system and make us more susceptible to illnesses. In the long term, chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to serious health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. So what does remodeling have to do with good sleep?

At PACE, when we partner with you on a remodel, our ultimate goal is to improve your life, and sleep has a dramatic influence on the quality of someone's life. So how can we help you prioritize good sleep in a remodel? Here are some ideas:

LIGHT

Light can have a significant impact on our sleep, as it affects our body's natural circadian rhythm or sleep-wake cycle. Exposure to bright light during the day helps keep our circadian rhythm in sync, while exposure to bright light in the evening can disrupt it and make it harder to fall asleep. Consider investing in blackout shades! These shades are designed to completely block out any external light from entering the room, creating a dark and peaceful environment that's conducive to sleep. They come in various styles and materials, from roller shades to curtains to cellular shades. It is important to consider factors like the size of your windows, the level of insulation you need, and your personal style preferences. Blackout shades that also auto-open when it is time to wake up would be another great way to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. If you have children, consider blacking out their rooms as well to help them get better sleep (which also helps you get better sleep)!

ELECTRONICS

Exposure to blue light, as our body prepares for sleep, can trick our body into thinking it is still daytime and make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. In your remodel, include a designated area or "drop zone" for electronics to charge overnight, away from your sleeping space. This will assist in avoiding the mindless scrolling in bed before sleep. It seems simple but having a place that is made to house electronics will make eliminating blue light before bed easier to manage.

SOUND

Sound is another way to set the stage for sleep. In a busy city like Washington DC, the sounds of the city could be disturbing your sleep. Soundproofing bedrooms is one way to prioritize good sleep in your renovation. It could block out external noises like traffic, sirens, and neighbors, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Soundproofing can also prevent noises from inside the house, such as footsteps, slamming doors, or the TV in another room, from disturbing your sleep. This can be especially helpful if you have a partner who has a different sleep schedule, children who tend to be loud, or a creaky DC row home! Overall, soundproofing your bedroom can be a great way to prioritize good sleep in your renovation.

Temperature

It is essential to maintain a comfortable temperature to ensure quality sleep. The ideal temperature for sleep is between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range helps our body regulate its internal temperature, allowing for a more restful sleep. When the temperature is too high or too low, it can disrupt our sleep and cause us to wake up frequently. Keeping the temperature in your bedroom in a comfortable range can be tricky with a whole house system. Installing a mini split heat pump in your bedroom can regulate the temperature and humidity while you sleep, keeping it in the perfect range. Contact PACE today to reimagine your entire indoor climate!

Air quality and the GENERAL ENVIRONMENT

Air quality is also an essential factor that can impact the quality of our sleep. Poor air quality can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems that can affect our sleep. To improve air quality in your bedroom, you can invest in a high-quality air purifier that filters out pollutants and allergens, and switch to electric appliances to further reduce your exposure . The general environment of your bedroom is also an important factor in getting good sleep. Do you enjoy being in your bedroom? Does it calm you or stress you out? Do you have space for your clothes? Consider a custom closet from our partner The Tailored Closet ! Consider upgrading your heating and cooling systems to keep temperatures comfortable while you sleep. Add a steam shower to your bathroom to help you relax before bed.

Lack of sleep can have a significant impact on our health and overall quality of life, but by making a few changes to your home, you could improve your sleep and ultimately your life. At PACE , we would love to partner with you to prioritize good sleep and improve your life and health!

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Smart Kitchen Technology for 2024

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 14:56:57 GMT

Smart Kitchen Technology for 2024

An emerging and increasingly popular trend for homeowners in Washington, DC is to leverage technology to make it easier and more enjoyable to prepare meals, cook, and clean up.

Advances have made using smart components in the kitchen easier and almost seamless. Many features and functions can be voice-activated, from preheating an oven to starting the water flow from a faucet. We expect voice and motion activation features to improve and expand making it easier for homeowners to use smart technology in their kitchens.

Another 2024 anticipated trend is the movement away from individual product functionality to an increase in integrated systems that not only operate components in the kitchen, but also control functionality and performance throughout the home. Integrated systems enable homeowners to open doors, set light levels, and specify thermal comfort in every room.

Technological advances will also make it easier for homeowners in Washington, DC to live a healthier more sustainable lifestyle. From the ability to better control energy use and leak detection systems that automatically cut off water supply to lighting systems that use a fraction of the energy of prior generations, we anticipate an increasing number of products that are more environmentally friendly and less costly to operate.

Interested in how technological advances make it easier, less costly, and more enjoyable to create a dream kitchen or bath? Get in touch with PACE and let us collaborate on how you can create a kitchen and bath that not only meets your current needs but also those of your future.

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A Healthier and More Sustainable Home

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 17:19:48 GMT

A healthier and more sustainable home

The health risks of natural gas are now well-known, and many people are considering how to switch to electric as a safer alternative. The use of gas for cooking and fireplaces has negative impacts on indoor air quality ( What Science Says About the Health Risks of Gas Stoves ) and the environment due to the combustion of fossil fuels. Burning natural gas releases harmful carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter into the air, which contributes to poisonous air that causes serious health problems . Therefore, it's important to consider alternative options like electric appliances and renewable energy sources to reduce the impact of gas on the environment and air quality.

A pollutant called nitrogen dioxide forms when fossil fuels such as natural gas are burned at high temperatures. It is one of six air pollutants that have national air quality standards to limit the levels in the outdoor air. NO2 can also form indoors when fuels like wood or gas are burned. NO2 can cause respiratory problems, particularly for those with asthma or other respiratory illnesses, and long-term exposure to NO2 from gas stoves has also been linked to an increased risk of developing heart disease. Over a ten-month period, households with electric stoves experienced a 35 percent reduction in daily NO2 concentrations compared to those who used gas stoves.

As homeowners value healthy environments that complement smaller environmental footprints and sustainable homes, instead of relying on natural gas or oil for heating and cooking, homes will increasingly use electricity from renewable sources. Electric appliances like stoves, water heaters, and heating systems are powered by electricity instead of natural gas, which means they don't produce any harmful emissions. This improves residents' overall health and wellness by improving indoor air quality and reducing the serious risks of regular poisonous gas exposure.

While there may be upfront costs associated with upgrading to electric appliances and heating systems, the long-term benefits for both the environment and our health are significant. At PACE we value moving homes towards a more sustainable future and improving the lives of residents in the process. We would love to partner with you to explore ways to electrify your home and improve your respiratory health.

There are several ways to change to electric in the home:

Upgrade to electric appliances

Overall, upgrading to electric appliances can be a great way to improve indoor air quality, promote better health, and save money in the long run. Be sure to consult with a qualified professional to ensure that the installation is done safely and effectively. Look for Energy Star-certified appliances that are energy-efficient and use less electricity.

Install an electric heat pump

In addition to the health benefits, electric heat pumps can also be more cost-effective in the long run. While the initial cost of installation may be higher than traditional heating and cooling systems, electric heat pumps tend to be more energy-efficient and can save you money on your monthly utility bills.

Remove gas fireplaces

Switching your fireplace from gas to electric can be a great way to improve indoor air quality and promote better health. Gas fireplaces produce combustion byproducts that can be harmful to our health, particularly for those with respiratory problems. Electric fireplaces, on the other hand, don't produce any harmful emissions, making them a safer and cleaner alternative.

Install solar panels

Generate your own electricity by installing solar panels on your roof. This will not only help you reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, but it can also save you money on your energy bills over time.

Upgrade your insulation

Proper insulation can help reduce your energy consumption and make your home more comfortable year-round. This means you'll need less energy to heat and cool your home, which in turn reduces the harmful gasses in your home.

Switch to an electric car

If you're looking to reduce your carbon footprint even further, consider switching to an electric car. You can charge your car at home using renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines.

Making the switch to renewable energy sources can have significant health benefits by improving indoor air quality. There are many options available to homeowners who want to make the switch. Get in touch with PACE today so we can partner to reduce risks and improve air quality in your home while minimizing your environmental impact.

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Relationships and Renovations

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 14:15:19 GMT

Maintaining your Relationship during a renovation

Renovating a home can be a stressful experience for any couple, and it is not uncommon for partner relationships to be put to the test during this time. We have had a front-row seat to many partner disagreements during many remodels and have seen what sets couples up for success vs difficulty!

Here are a few tips we've put together:

Set expectations

It's important to communicate openly and honestly with your partner throughout the renovation process and to establish clear expectations from the outset. This can help to minimize misunderstandings and prevent any unnecessary conflicts. For example, talk through what you both envision at the end of the renovation, how much you expect to budget, and talk about ways your life may be disrupted during and how you will handle it. It is also important to discuss who is in charge of which decisions. Will you handle every decision together or will you divide and conquer? It can also help to put days on the calendar during the renovation to sit down and talk about what is working and what is not without judgment! Clear expectations and check-ins can do wonders during a renovation.

Expect Disagreements to occur

Reworking some of the most valued rooms in your house is bound to bring out strong opinions and perspectives. Expecting disagreements and differing ideas to occur can keep you both from being on the offensive and instead orient you to solving differences together. By working together as a team, respecting each other's opinions and needs, and remaining patient and understanding, you can successfully navigate the challenges of renovating while preserving your relationship.

make time for each other

Renovating often takes over lives. It is chaotic, busy, and expensive. It is important to take breaks and make time for each other outside of the renovation work to maintain a healthy and positive relationship. The ultimate goal of a renovation is to improve your family's life. Spending time together can help keep this goal in view even when things are chaotic.

Please know that partner disagreements and tensions are not abnormal during something as disruptive, expensive, and requiring as much brain power as a renovation. When embarking on a remodel it is important to have a trusted team in place that can guide you through this difficult and stressful process. The ultimate goal of a renovation is to improve your life; at PACE our goal is to help you get there with as little strife as possible which is why we’ve created an easy-to-manage approach to renovation. Utilize our tested process at PACE to ease the renovation burden so your remodel really can improve your family life!

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Outdated Remodeling Trends

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 14:00:00 GMT

trends on their way out

The world of home design and remodeling is ever-changing. What was once trendy and popular may now be outdated and unappealing. If you are planning a remodel, being aware of current trends on their way out can help inform your design choices. Preference also plays a role. Even if a trend is on its way out if it speaks to you and will serve you long-term, go for it! If selling your home is on the horizon, it might be a more vital consideration.

Here are some trends headed out the door:

Industrial aesthetic

Harsh lines and warehouse vibes were once a favorite for homeowners wanting a modern look. In 2024 we are seeing a trend towards a design style that brings a connection with nature to the inside; creating spaces that welcome elements of the outdoors inside as well as spaces that naturally flow to the outdoors.

Unused design elements

Homeowners in the DC metro area are no strangers to limited space. Making a renovated space multifunctional and incorporating design elements that work for you is the way of the future. In fact, according to the 2023 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, 3 out of 5 homeowners (57%) use their kitchen for entertaining following a renovation. In the same vein, there is a trend towards making designs and decor eco-friendly. Repurposing materials, including greenery, and upgrading to energy-efficient options are all the ways of the future.

All white and gloomy interiors

While all-white is thought to age well, in 2024 it is the new drab. Connection to nature brings warmth and disperses sterility, and so does color! Many of Houzz’s design trends of 2024 point to color and texture. Go warm and expressive to infuse character and feeling into your home.

Gold Fixtures

While shiny gold fixtures were once a sign of luxury and sophistication, they are once again overshadowed by a classic! Replace them with brushed nickel, brushed gold or chrome fixtures, which are more modern and timeless.

Closed Floor Plans

Open floor plans are now the norm, as they allow for more natural light, better flow, and a more spacious feel. If your home has a closed floor plan, consider opening up the space by removing walls or creating large openings- arched openings are an elevated style option.

The experts at PACE can assist in avoiding these on-their-way-out remodeling trends while partnering with you to create a more modern and stylish home that will stand the test of time! Call us today to set up a consultation.

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Capitalizing on the Hottest Bath Trends

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 16:40:47 GMT

Capitalizing on the Hottest Bath Trends

The recently released 2023 U.S. Houzz Bathroom Trends Study reflects the preferences we are seeing among homeowners in Washington, D.C.. The Houzz Study compiles survey responses from nearly 2,000 homeowners who are currently remodeling , plan to remodel or have recently remodeled en suite bathrooms. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. can use these trends to make more informed and better purchasing decisions while creating the bathroom of their dreams.

Trend 1: Bathrooms are growing in size. More than 20% of homeowners responding to the Houzz Study reported that they increased the size of their bathroom as part of the renovation, creating additional space from closets, bedrooms and hallways. Other options homeowners in Washington, D.C. can consider for enlarging a bath is to build an addition. Nearly 60% of the bathrooms renovated in the Houzz study were 100 square feet or larger. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. and nationally are working with designers to maximize existing space often to create an in-home spa that includes a much larger shower space.

Trend 2: Planning for the long-term. Many homeowners in Washington, D.C. are planning for the future as they want to stay in their existing homes as they age. Their new baths often feature curbless shower entry, multiple grab bars and nonslip flooring. We often recommend increasing the width of doorways to potentially accommodate walkers and wheelchairs. We also often recommend lowering the height of vanities and fixtures for those who plan to age in place in their existing home.

Trend 3: Wood vanities. Wood has become the top choice for vanities according to the Houzz Study. One third of homeowners selected a wood vanity compared to 29% who opted for white and 13% choose gray for their vanity color. White remains the most popular color for countertops, shower walls and other walls in the bath.

Trend 4: Sustainability. Nearly 9 in 10 homeowners selected sustainable options for their new bathrooms that included LED lighting, dimmers and water-efficient faucets, shower fixtures and toilets. Cost-effectiveness is the number one reason to invest in sustainable options for a bath. Other compelling reasons to invest in sustainability for a new bath include improved health and wellness and concern for the environment.

Trend 5: Increased investment. The Houzz Study found that homeowners increased the amount they are spending on new baths by 50% from 2021 to 2022 and homeowners investing in a major remodel rose 33%. The increased investment does not come as a surprise because the amount homeowners are investing in home improvements has increased for four consecutive years.

Trend 6: Partnering with professionals. Homeowners are partnering with professional designers and installers to create dream baths more often. The use of general contractors increased 5% year over year. Contracting with bathroom designers, architects and interior designers also increased.

How can you leverage these trends to make better decisions for your dream bath? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 and let us show you how to select the best designs and products for your new bath. Don't forget to follow us on social media!

What Does a Basement Remodel Cost in DC?

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 13:57:24 GMT

How much does a Washington DC Basement Renovation Cost?

In Washington DC, making the decision to finish or remodel your basement is a great way to update your home, increase value, and add livable space that fits your needs. Like any other renovation project, basements can get expensive. That’s why using the right design build contractor is key to creating a safe, efficient, and legal basement in the District of Columbia.

When renovating a basement space, there are code requirements to sift through before the possibilities of what to do with the space can become a reality. These necessary permits and inspections apply to basement remodeling in DC to ensure that new basements are safe. Ceiling height, points of egress, and fire sprinklers are just a few factors that may need to be addressed while you are in the early stages of designing your new living space. Depending on the scope and complexity of your project, you will need to hire an architect, engineer, and/or contractor to ensure that your basement meets these safety and quality standards.

Determining how you want to use your new found space is also important in determining the price. For example, creating a finished play area for the kids to go when you need some time alone in the rest of the house will not require as much infrastructure expansion as making the decision to turn the space into an ADU ( click here to read our blog on Accessory Dwelling Units ). Obviously, adding a bathroom or kitchenette will require plumbing that other uses wouldn’t need. Some of the hidden costs like concrete trenching, plumbing groundwork, and earth removal become necessary with the addition of plumbing scope. Adding more appliances or HVAC units will need more power from your electric panel that’s probably already pretty full. Upgrades to utilities like this can result in waiting for approvals and engaging with utility work that adds time and ultimately money to your project. Be sure you are clear on how you want the space to work for you and what that means for work that will need to happen in your existing space, and your budget.

Basement work can be tricky so make sure you hire someone with experience that you can trust to take all the necessary steps for a sustainable build.

The cost of a basement remodel in DC depends on many factors, like the size, scope, and design involved in your project. The average cost of a basement remodel in Washington, DC usually ranges from $75,000 to $250,000, depending on these factors mentioned above and many others that were not. This is just an estimate based on our experience with recent projects in the area and may not reflect your specific situation. To get a more accurate quote contact us today and schedule a time to discuss your ideas with one of our PACE design professionals.

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Designing Dream Kitchens: Averting Buyer's Regret

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 18:08:29 GMT

Designing Dream Kitchens: Averting Buyer's Regret

In our bustling kitchen showroom, homeowners in Washington, D.C. arrive brimming with inspiration for their ideal kitchen remodel . After months of independent research, scrolling through Instagram, Houzz, and other social media platforms, as well as observing the ups and downs of home improvement TV shows, they often enter with a firm checklist of "must-haves" for their dream kitchen.

But here's where the seasoned expertise of our professional showroom designers comes into play. We don't just accept these "must-haves" at face value. We delve deeper, questioning their practicality within the unique space and lifestyle of our clients. We understand that a dream kitchen isn't just about following trends—it's about crafting a space that genuinely caters to your needs.

For instance, it's common for homeowners in Washington, D.C. to envision their kitchen cabinets soaring up to the ceiling. While this design choice can be perfect in some cases, others struggle to visualize how these cabinets will be utilized, especially when they're beyond the reach of family members. Are they meant for storing rarely used items like fine china and glassware, or should alternative designs be considered to achieve both form and function?

Islands, undoubtedly, are among the most sought-after kitchen features among homeowners in Washington, D.C.. However, two critical aspects require attention. First, is there ample room for an island, and if so, what are the optimal dimensions? We caution against oversized or oddly shaped islands that may disrupt traffic flow and hinder workspace efficiency. Balancing style with functionality is key here—bigger isn't always better in the world of kitchen islands.

Then there are the often-forgotten appliances and features that deserve a second thought. Pot racks, pot fillers, and countertop appliances like bread makers, rice cookers, and sandwich presses might seem appealing initially, but they can quickly contribute to countertop clutter if seldom used.

Oversized workstation sinks are another feature that warrants careful consideration. While they can be invaluable in compact kitchen spaces where the sink doubles as a prep area, homeowners who desire such sinks must think about accessory storage, including colanders, dish racks, cutting boards, and more.

For those who seek a personal design statement, detailed mosaic backsplashes are an artistic choice that can serve as a kitchen's focal point. Yet, it's important to acknowledge that mosaic backsplashes often demand more maintenance.

In a well-designed kitchen, the focus is on addressing the unique needs and lifestyles of homeowners in Washington, D.C.. Features that seldom see use or offer limited functionality tend to be those influenced by passing trends. They may not align with the practical requirements of everyday meal preparation and daily activities in your dream kitchen.

So, the question remains: how can you design a kitchen that not only serves your practical needs but also makes a distinctive personal statement? Contact us today at (888) 565-1025 and let us guide you in creating a kitchen that not only stands the test of time, but also becomes the envy of your neighborhood.

Use The Latest Design Trends To Create a Dream Kitchen

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 19:05:59 GMT

Use The Latest Design Trends To Create a Dream Kitchen

Designing a dream kitchen that incorporates the latest design trends requires a thoughtful approach and attention to detail. Understanding the latest trends can be inspirational. Interior design magazines, websites, social medial platforms such as Houzz, Pinterest and Instagram are resources that many homeowners in Washington, D.C. use to learn about trends that help them define their individual style and how they want their new dream kitchen to look, feel and function.

Our showroom designers have other sources to keep their fingers on the pulse of the latest kitchen and bath trends. One source is the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s annual Kitchen Design Trends report that highlights the anticipated trends that will most influence kitchen design in the next three years. The report features emerging product and design categories and shifts in products, color, materials and space layout.

The 2024 report findings mirror the desires of homeowners in Washington, D.C. that desire a large multifunctional island that can be used for meal preparation, storage, as a gathering hub for friends and family and as a dining venue. More than 57% of designers report that their clients prefer an eat-in kitchen to a formal dining room and 48% want a large island that can be used for serving and eating.

Peace and qu iet is another trend that we expect will withstand the test of time. By eliminating noise from appliances and cabinet and drawer closures, the kitchen can be a haven for great conversations, entertaining, working and learning. Ultra-quiet dishwashers, soft close cabinets and drawers and replacing noisy compactors with pull-out recycling containers help to eliminate unwanted noises and create a serene setting for just about anything homeowners in Washington, D.C. would want their new kitchen to do.

Let there be light in your new kitchen that involves not only designs that incorporate natural light into a new dream kitchen, but also well-conceived and designed lighting plans that layer light to support different functions. Expect a professional designer to deliver a lighting plan for your new kitchen that incorporates ambient light to create different moods, task lighting that makes it easier to prepare and cook meals, read and study and decorative lighting to spotlight focal points. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. can take advantage of smart lighting capabilities that offer motion sensing, voice activation and programmable controls.

Wellness and nutrition are additional hot trends expected to continue to increase in demand and popularity in kitchen design in the next three years. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. desire a new dream kitchen that emphasizes healthy eating and nutrition. They gravitate toward larger more flexible refrigeration spaces that can accommodate healthier lifestyles. We also are seeing increased demand for integrated appliances that offer multiple functions such as air frying and steam cooking.

How can you leverage anticipated design trends to create the kitchen of your dreams? Give us a call at (888) 771-PACE and let us help you create a kitchen that will be the envy of your neighborhood.

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Don't You Want a More Intelligent Kitchen?

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 19:36:10 GMT

Don't You Want a More Intelligent Kitchen?

Kitchens in Washington, D.C. are getting smarter, easier, and more enjoyable to use. Homeowners are taking advantage of technology to improve the way they live, work, and play and that certainly holds true to the most important room in the home, the kitchen. Our showroom continues to expand the use of smart home technology in our kitchen designs , offering homeowners in Washington, D.C. a broad range of innovations, conveniences and wow factors.

Imagine that your new dream kitchen responds to voice commands to adjust lighting, order groceries, pre-heat the oven or start the flow of water from your faucet when your hands are covered in dough. Appliances are the main beneficiaries of these technological advancements. Smart refrigerators allow you to see what’s inside remotely which is a great benefit when you are shopping for groceries. Many smart refrigerators include food inventory technology that makes recommendations for your shopping list and offers sample menus based on what’s on hand. Smart refrigerators also can feature a flex drawer that offers customizable temperate settings ranging from less than 32 degrees to 54 to 56 degrees, which is the perfect wine storage temperature.

Ovens are not only getting smarter, they also are becoming multifunctional. According to the latest National Kitchen and Bath Association Kitchen Trends Research Report, 87% of homeowners want ovens that can multitask. Smarter ovens incorporate integrated functionality that allows them to bake, air fry and steam cook. Smart ovens also can be operated remotely, allowing homeowners in Washington, D.C. to preheat them on a drive home or can have the temperature adjusted with a few clicks on a smart phone. WIFI-connected dishwashers can order detergent when supplies are low and notify you when your dishes are ready to use.

Safety is another benefit of smart appliances that homeowners in Washington, D.C. value. Many smart appliances automatically shut off burners that have been left on or if there is a leak or power surge. These safety features help to prevent catastrophes that often occur when homeowners in Washington, D.C. are out of town or not at home.

Smart lighting enables homeowners in Washington, D.C. to create the perfect mood for almost every situation. Imagine telling your lights to create the perfect ambiance for your anniversary dinner or to provide the necessary light that makes meal preparation easier and more enjoyable. Under-cabinet and in-cabinet lighting enhances visibility and adds a certain wow factor to every kitchen.

Smart thermostats can be programmed to offset heat generated from cooking meals to providing the perfect thermal comfort for dining, preparing meals, working from home or studying for exams.

Smart trash bins and compactors can be motion or voice activated, eliminating the need to manually use lids or foot pedals.

New advances in technology will provide even more options for creating a dream kitchen that is easier, safer and more enjoyable to use. Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 and let us show you how to create a smart, intuitive space that transforms your kitchen into the envy of the neighborhood.

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Best Neighborhoods to Renovate in Washington DC

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 18:33:06 GMT

Which neighborhoods in Washington DC are best for home renovation projects?

Regardless of which neighborhood you live, home renovations in Washington, D.C. are an exercise in patience. Whether you live in a condo that has an HOA with their own sets of rules and regulations or in a single family row house, the District of Columbia building process is strenuous, but not impossible.

It’s important to understand the limitations before you start down a design path that could not only exceed your budget but also may not be permissible in your neighborhood. Permitting, use of public space, dumpsters, zoning restrictions, property setbacks, and material delivery are all things that can disrupt your plans. Working with a trusted design-build firm early in the process can help prioritize what’s important to your design and the needs of your home.

Know your value! Each neighborhood in Washington has its own characteristics and charm but some may be more suitable to your lifestyle than others. Renovations can add value to your home but you want to be sure you’re going to be able to get out of it what you’re willing to put into it. Below are just a few things to think about while you’re planning your home (and life) renovation, regardless of your neighborhood in DC.

Location: Proximity to public transportation, retail, restaurants, and other amenities may mean it’s more expensive to buy, but could be more valuable to renovate, thus increasing the property’s value even more.

Schools: Good schools in the neighborhood are typically appealing to families and can have a positive impact on property values. These areas can be good candidates for additions and third floor pop-ups to create more space for growing families (or in-laws).

Historic Preservation: Historic status can be a coveted badge but can also lead to increased renovation costs in addition to a more intensive design review process by the Department of Buildings (DOB) and Historic Preservation Office (HPO). Be sure you have done your research and are willing to comply with historic requirements before buying a house in these areas (as the great philosopher M. Jagger once said, “you can’t always get what you want”).

To find out more about buying and renovating in the District of Columbia, call us today to set up a consultation. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

What's Coming In and What's Going Out

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 14:30:45 GMT

What's Coming In and What's Going Out

The National Kitchen and Bath Association (the largest organization of K&B professionals in North America) released the results of its 2024 Kitchen Design Trends Research Report that offers a window into trends that will most influence kitchen design and usage for homeowners in Washington, D.C. in the next three years. Here’s what the Report projects to be coming in and going out.

What’s In

Large islands for serving and dining
Integrated technology
Hidden workspaces, appliances and shelving behind pocket doors, in cabinets, etc.
Statement-making range hoods
Integrated seating/benches/banquettes
Colorful kitchen cabinets
Bold backsplashes
Rounded islands, arched windows and more curves
Antique or vintage furniture
Statement seating
Partition walls/screens
Glazed tiles

What’s Out

Microwave over the range
All white kitchens
Trash compactors
Chandeliers in kitchens
Small subway tiles
Traditional stand-alone kitchen tables
Apron front/farmhouse kitchen sinks
Gas appliances
Ultra modern, stark designs
Glossy tiles

How can homeowners in Washington, D.C. leverage the incoming trends to create a dream kitchen? Give us a call at (888) 771-7223 and let our design professional explain the key features to consider when planning a new kitchen that will be the envy of the neighborhood.

Let There Be Light

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 16:20:00 GMT

Let There Be Light

Lighting can make or break the way a kitchen functions, looks and feels. Lighting can be transformative in a kitchen remodel , helping to make smaller spaces appear larger and spotlighting focal points that attract the eye and the imagination.

Homeowners in Washington, D.C. should expect their kitchen designers to present a layered lighting plan that contributes not only to the functionality of the kitchen but also to its design and beauty. The different types of lighting that are used to layer light are:

Task
Ambient
Accent

Task lighting focuses light on the areas in the kitchen used for meal preparation, cooking and cleaning, e.g. countertops, the range/cooktop and the sink.

Ambient lighting is the main source of illumination for most rooms in a home. The goal of ambient lighting is to provide soft, general illumination without necessarily drawing attention to the light source. Ambient lighting provides enough light for safe navigation, cooking and washing dishes and helps to define the space.

Accent lighting can keep your kitchen from looking ordinary or bland by highlighting open shelving, artwork, architectural details or a statement making range hood, among other objects.

We recommend lighting controls such as dimmers and motion detectors in almost every lighting plan because they not only are more environmentally friendly, but they also help to control utility costs and enable you to alter the look and feel of the room.

The type and amount of light needed for a new kitchen will be dictated by the size of the space and the amount of daylight that the room receives from windows, doors and/or skylights. Electric light fixtures complement the light generated by Mother Nature. Mother Nature can be fickle, however. Clouds, rainstorms and other weather conditions can minimize the amount of daylight that enters the space.

Smooth, shiny materials will reflect more light than textured matte surfaces. Polished marble will reflect more light than honed black slate. More light is needed in a space with dark and textured finishes.

The feel of the kitchen also is affected by paint colors. Different paints and colors have different reflective capabilities that should be discussed as part of the planning process. A lighting plan should account for the possibility that the sun won’t shine brightly every day.

Generally, electric lighting supplements or replaces daylight but man-made light can’t match daylight’s intensity or color distribution. Exposed lamps tend to look warm or even yellow compared to sunlight coming to the space through skylights, windows or glass doors.

Recessed lighting may be a good option to create a color palette that works in the space. If recessed lighting is not wanted or practical, ambient lighting can be provided by pendants or surface-mounted fixtures installed around the perimeter in a cove.

Pendants can deliver light upwards or downwards or in a combination of up-lighting and downlighting. Pendant options are almost limitless and a great way to influence the look of the kitchen. Highly polished stone and other reflective surface materials can amplify available light in the room, but also produce unwanted glare.

A kitchen lighting design is successful when all three types of light – ambient, task and accent – are layered together within a room to create a fully usable, adaptive space. Good lighting does not draw attention to itself but highlights the other design elements and fixtures in the space. Different light layers may be activated depending on purpose or time of day. For example, during the day, pendants over the island may not be needed at all, but when you start to prepare dinner in the evening all the layers providing ambient, task, and accent lighting become necessary.

Want to know the light that will make your kitchen shine? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025!

Rooted in Nature

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 16:16:28 GMT

Rooted in Nature

Integrating natural elements and patterns into new kitchens , baths and home renovation is hot among homeowners in Washington, D.C.. Because so many homeowners are spending a lot more time in their homes due to hybrid work schedules, they want their homes to perform better. A technique to improve performance is to bring into the home natural elements commonly found outdoors. Bringing natural elements into the home creates a soothing and refreshing atmosphere that enhances health and wellbeing and can reduce stress.

Increasingly homeowners in Washington, D.C. are gravitating toward integrating natural elements into their new kitchen designs and baths. This can be as easy and cost-effective as placing more plants and herb gardens in the kitchen to bringing more natural light into the home. Natural light from the sun is often complemented by LED solutions that have the capability to change color temperature and light intensity to replicate the effect of natural sunlight. One of the primary benefits of bringing natural light into a kitchen or bath is that it can make the space feel larger and more open.

The right light helps homeowners in Washington, D.C. to relax. Almost 80% of U.S. homeowners in a recent survey stated that the ability to adjust lighting is one of the most important factors to creating the right mood in their homes.

Use of wood and stone and other natural materials in a new kitchen and bath adds warmth, texture, and a sense of authenticity to the space. Similarly, many homeowners in Washington, D.C. bring mother nature to their interior spaces by choosing an earthy color palate. Popular natural colors include shades of green, beige, and muted blues.

The dramatic increase in popularity of curved islands and countertops is another proven technique to bring natural elements indoors. Curved lines and irregular patterns resemble the flow of natural elements and can bring a sense of harmony to a new kitchen or bath.

Sustainable materials and eco-friendly design are additional components that help to bring natural elements to a new kitchen or bath. Our showroom offers the expertise to specify environmentally friendly and sustainable materials and design concepts.

How can you leverage the health, wellbeing, and aesthetic benefits of nature into your new kitchen or bath to feel more relaxed and create sanctuaries of calm and connectedness? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002 and let us guide you to create a space that mother nature would be proud of.

The Hottest Trends In Bath Design

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 20:14:49 GMT

The Hottest Trends In Bath Design

Homeowners in Washington, D.C. during the COVID pandemic gained a new appreciation for their bathrooms which warranted a bathroom remodeling project. They realized that a bathroom can be a refuge from the chaos of the day. A bathroom can serve as a sanctuary where homeowners in Washington, D.C. can spend a few minutes all to themselves, away from texts, tweets and even the patter of little feet in peace and quiet to recharge their batteries, sooth tired muscles, and wash away the stresses of the day.

The new role bathrooms are asked to play has made bathroom design more important to provide a space that homeowners in Washington, D.C. expect. If you are considering converting your primary bath into an in-home spa or would like to provide a powder room facelift, here are several design trends to help plan the bath of your dreams.

Tile trends : Two trends stand out. One is the use of bold colors and patterns in the bath. White can be mundane. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. that want to make a distinct and personal design statement are opting for bold, textured tiles. Another bathroom tile trend is Terrazzo. Terrazzo tile is available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and designs. It can be customized to fit any bathroom style or theme, offering a visually stunning and unique flooring and/or wallcovering option. Its speckled appearance and reflective properties add a touch of elegance to a bathroom.

Homeowners in Washington, D.C. also gravitate toward Terrazzo because it is extremely durable, easy to clean, and environmentally friendly. Terrazzo is made from a mix of recycled materials like glass, marble chips, and other aggregates combined with a binder.

Statement-making bathtubs : Placing a sculptural freestanding tub in a primary bath creates a great focal point. Plus, baths, especially those that feature massage, color, aroma and sound therapies help create the in-home spa that so many homeowners in Washington, D.C. cherish.

Custom vanities : Handmade, artistically crafted vanities will continue to gain in popularity because they are built to meet specific needs of homeowners in Washington, D.C.. A custom vanity fits perfectly in the bath and enhances the overall bathroom design. A custom vanity also provides a blank pallet for homeowners to use unique materials, finishes and design elements.

Not only do custom vanities make a profound design statement, they also address the functional needs of the bath and homeowners. Custom vanities offer necessary storage, organizational tools and layouts that enhance the vanity’s useability and practicality.

Natural Material : Similar to kitchens, today’s bathrooms are incorporating natural materials that add a sense of warmth to a bath. We are seeing homeowners in Washington, D.C. welcome stone, wood and handmade ceramics into their new baths.

Power showers : High-performing showers that include steam and other therapies will continue to trend at the top of homeowners’ wish lists. Showers with showerheads or spray options that may include rainfall showerheads, body jets and handheld showerheads that allow users to customize their shower experience to their preferences. A power shower features thermostatic or digital shower controls where users can preset the water temperature and flow to their personal needs.

Another popular feature in new showers are built-in seating such as a bench or shower seat that allows users to sit and enjoy all of the therapies and benefits a luxury shower offers.

What are the features and trends that you desire to create the bathroom of your dreams? Give us a call at (888) 771-7223 or make an appointment to visit us at 5590 Tuxedo Rd Hyattsville, MD 20781 and let us show you how to create an in-home sanctuary for you and your family.

Timeless Kitchen Cabinet Colors: A Lasting Design Investment

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 16:38:34 GMT

Timeless Kitchen Cabinet Colors: A Lasting Design Investment

When it comes to creating a dream kitchen, one of the most significant decisions homeowners in Washington, D.C. make is choosing the color of their kitchen cabinets . While it's tempting to opt for trendy hues, we often recommend selecting a color that has long-term, lasting value.

White Cabinets

There’s a reason that more than 50% of homeowners in Washington, D.C. choose white cabinets. They create a timeless sense of cleanliness, brightness, and spaciousness. Whether you have a modern or traditional kitchen, white cabinets provide a blank canvas, allowing you to experiment with various accent colors and styles. They also make your kitchen appear larger, making it a smart choice for both small and large spaces.

Gray Tones

Shades of gray, from light and airy to deep and dramatic, provide a neutral yet sophisticated backdrop. Gray pairs well with a wide range of countertop materials and can adapt to various design styles, including contemporary, industrial, and farmhouse. The subtlety of gray cabinets ensures they remain stylish for years to come.

Navy Blue Cabinets

Navy blue cabinets add a touch of sophistication and depth to your kitchen. This rich and versatile color can be used as a primary cabinet color or as an accent in an island or pantry. Navy blue cabinets work exceptionally well in coastal, nautical, and traditional kitchen designs. Their timeless appeal is undeniable, making them a smart choice for homeowners who want a dash of color without sacrificing longevity.

Black Cabinets

Black cabinets enable homeowners in Washington, D.C. to make a bold statement in their homes. With the right design, black cabinets exude a sense of luxury and timeless elegance. Black pairs beautifully with a variety of materials, such as marble, brass and wood, creating a high-contrast, visually striking kitchen. While not everyone may be ready to commit to all-black cabinets, integrating them as accents or in combination with other colors can create a chic, timeless look.

Natural Wood Tones

Natural wood cabinets, whether light oak or deep mahogany, have been a staple in kitchen design for centuries. The warmth and texture of wood provide a timeless appeal that complements a range of styles, from rustic and farmhouse to mid-century modern. These cabinets can be left natural or stained, ensuring that they fit seamlessly with your kitchen's overall aesthetic.

Soft and Subdued Pastels

Pastel cabinet colors such as soft mint, pale blue, and light blush can add a touch of whimsy and charm to your kitchen. They work beautifully in cottage-style and shabby chic kitchens, but their muted tones also make them surprisingly adaptable to more contemporary settings. Pastels offer a unique blend of timelessness and character that can elevate your kitchen's design.

What color cabinet will withstand the test of time in your new dream kitchen? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit our showrooms at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002 and let us help you select a timeless cabinet color that will always be in vogue, ensuring that your new dream kitchen remains the heart of your home for generations.

Beyond Subway: The Wonderful World of Backsplashes

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:21:01 GMT

Beyond Subway: The Wonderful World of Backsplashes

Many homeowners in Washington, D.C. gain a new found appreciation for the backsplash when they are creating a new dream kitchen . The backsplash represents the perfect combination of form and function. It not only protects your walls from splashes and spills, but also provides the opportunity for homeowners in Washington, D.C. to showcase their style and personality. White subway tile remains a go-to option for many homeowners in Washington, D.C. but is by no means the only option.

There is an endless array of materials, patterns and colors homeowners in Washington, D.C. can use to make a profound and personal design statement for their new kitchen design .

Materials

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are classic choices for kitchen backsplashes. They come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and sizes, allowing you to create a look that suits almost every style, from traditional to modern.

Glass tiles offer a sleek and contemporary appearance. They are available in various textures and finishes, including glossy, frosted, and matte, making them a versatile choice for both small and large kitchens.

Natural stone such as granite, marble, and travertine are popular backsplash options. They add a touch of luxury and elegance to a kitchen. Each piece of natural stone is unique, creating a one-of-a-kind backsplash.

Stainless steel, copper, and aluminum tiles are excellent choices for a contemporary or an industrial-style kitchen. They are not only visually striking, but also durable and easy to clean.

Patterns

Herringbone patterns involve laying tiles or materials in a zigzag pattern. This design adds a sense of movement and sophistication to your kitchen.

Similar to herringbone, chevron patterns consist of V-shaped tiles. They create a dynamic and visually appealing backsplash.

The brick bond pattern replicates the look of traditional brickwork. It adds a rustic and charming element to a kitchen, especially when using subway tiles.

Mosaic patterns involve using small, colorful tiles to create intricate designs. This option allows for creativity and personalization, converting a backsplash into a true work of art.

Geometric patterns, such as hexagons or diamonds, add a contemporary and trendy touch to a kitchen. They work well with various materials, from glass to ceramic.

For a minimalist and clean look, choose a solid color backsplash. This approach allows other elements in your kitchen, such as appliances or cabinetry, to take center stage.

Selecting a kitchen backsplash is a crucial aspect of kitchen design that transforms your kitchen's aesthetic and sets the tone for the entire space. What’s the best option for your new dream kitchen? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002 and let’s discuss the perfect backsplash that reflects your personal style and complements the overall design of your home.

What is Home Concierge Pricing in Washington DC?

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 15:03:02 GMT

How much do home concierge services cost in Washington DC?

In Metro D.C. there’s an increasing need for concierge construction and repair services. This service is intended for home repair projects that exceed the abilities and expertise of both homeowners’ and handyman services. Many of the old homes and buildings in Washington D.C. have a need for complicated home maintenance and repair projects managed by professionals who work in the field everyday. The challenge homeowners encounter is that usually these one-off projects don’t align with a major kitchen, bathroom, or whole house remodel. In addition, situations can arise for homeowners that require coordination with neighbors, engagement of professional services like architects, engineers, or direct contact with the DC Department of Building. To meet this need we created the PACE Pros Home Services Division to help property owners navigate “want to”, “need to”, and “must do” home improvement projects.

The PACE Pros provide access to expert resources and specialty contractors that are typically reserved for larger scale projects to help our clients navigate more complex situations. These services are for those of us who didn’t grow up learning how to do minor (or major) house repairs and don’t have the time or capacity to learn all the skilled trades necessary to address repairs safely and comprehensively.

Concierge home construction services are a convenient and easy-to-manage way to keep your home functioning properly and looking its best. This doesn’t only apply to damage or maintenance because many clients come to us with minor projects that prove to be impactful and improve their quality of life. Redesigning built-in storage, additional lighting, and upgrading closets are just a few ways that our design-build firm can help clients make changes to their homes. Clients also contract the PACE Pros to manage work on their behalf especially on historic properties or for projects requiring the coordination and supervision of specialty contractors. We find quite often that maintenance or minor repairs can often get lumped into a larger scale design project for a price that would be lower than if you were only addressing the repair itself.

If you need design or maintenance services for your D.C. home and you’re not sure how to get it done then the PACE Pros can provide the guidance you need. The approach to this work is straightforward and is billed on a time and materials basis, plus standard remodeling prices for specialty contractors. Depending on the scope of work, the price for these types of projects is typically over $10,000, or between $1,500 and $3,000 per day. For projects that require more detailed design, permitting, and planning work, the PACE Pros will guide you through our PACE Project Development path.

If you’ve been putting off dealing with a known issue or project and you want to find a path forward the PACE Pros can help. Contact us through our website today to discuss the process for starting your project. We are based in Washington DC serving the city and areas inside the beltway with quality workmanship and five star customer satisfaction.

What Does a DC Bathroom Remodel Cost?

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 18:46:53 GMT

What's a Good bathroom renovation budget for homes in Washington, DC?

Remodeling your bathroom in Washington DC is a great way to update your home, add value, and create a space that fits your needs. Like any other home improvement project, bathrooms can get expensive. That’s why using the right design build contractor is key to creating your ideal bathroom. Below you’ll find what you can expect to pay, possible challenges you’ll encounter, and what you should think about while planning your bathroom project.

In 2023, the average price range of a bathroom refresh is between $30,000-$70,000. As with all “average” price ranges these prices are very general and consider a number of different data points. The main factors that drive your price will be the size, scope of work, and fixtures for the bathroom you’ve been waiting for.

While design trends come and go, your tastes and preferences will not. Your design should not only reflect the aesthetic you prefer but also how you need your bathroom to function to fit your lifestyle. Be sure to consider longevity, sustainability, and the design’s impact on the value of the home.

We have a lot of people ask, “wouldn’t it be cheaper if I did some of this work/part of the project myself?” The short answer is, NO. Unless you have experience in any of the construction trades involved in bathroom renovations, it is much more efficient to hire professionals you trust. Self-performing work can sound like a good idea at first but it can very quickly turn into more work than you bargained for. This usually results in having to pay the professionals you didn’t think you needed to come in and fix what’s been done before they can move onto the project you intended to start. YouTube is a great resource for simple, around-the-house repairs but it is not recommended to be the knowledge base for a project that involves multiple trades, permitting, or inspections. If you want your bathroom completed properly and in a timely manner without self-inflicted mistakes (or injuries), hire the professionals.

Having Your Cake and Eating It Too

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 16:23:13 GMT

Having Your Cake and Eating It Too

We encourage homeowners in Washington, D.C. who want to create the kitchen of their dreams to think big. Develop a wish list with every possible need, want and desire on it. In many cases, not everything on the wish list is doable. However, the process of listing everything you could possible want helps designers to understanding your priorities and enables them to develop solutions that result in an aesthetically pleasing, high-performing, exceptionally functional kitchen.

Guidance for Developing a Kitchen Wish List

Start with kitchen cabinetry . At the top of most homeowners’ in Washington, D.C. wish lists is custom cabinets. Custom cabinets enable homeowners to have it their way, allowing homeowners to obtain the details and features to make personal design statements in their home and outfit their new kitchen to exacting requirements. Imagine cabinets that rise to the ceiling or make the best use of awkward spaces.

Custom kitchen cabinets have almost unlimited style and finish options. You are not limited to oak or cherry. Instead, you can opt for more alternative woods such as bamboo, zebra, mahogany or whatever else your heart may desire. Specialty finishes such as hand-brushed washes can be specified for custom cabinets. There is a blank canvas for door styles as well.

Another advantage of investing in custom cabinetry is that it provides the ultimate flexibility to select the right appliances. Many homeowners in Washington, D.C. love the clean lines of counter-depth refrigerators that are flush with the cabinetry. Custom cabinets can accommodate any appliance dimension.

Speaking of appliances, many dream kitchen must-haves include smart and high-performing appliances. Smart convection ovens, with steam and air frying capabilities often are on top of the wish list along with smart dual drawer model dishwashers that help to save water and energy. Smart faucets that can be activated by touch or voice command are another extremely popular feature of a dream kitchen.

Next on the list is countertops. There’s a reason why quartz is the number one countertop material among homeowners in Washington, D.C.. Quartz is made from engineered stone and is comparable in appearance to granite and marble however, it is not porous and is far more resistant to staining, making Quartz easy to maintain and clean. There are an almost limitless number of colors, patterns and finishes available. Quartz can even incorporate veins in interesting patterns to resemble marble and natural stone. Typical quartz slabs are the same thickness as granite, 3cm. However, quartz is heavier than granite and much stronger, allowing for larger tops and longer overhangs. Plus, quartz’ durability means that it won’t chip or crack as easily as other surfaces.

There’s good reasons to invest in a high-performing sink. Studies indicate that homeowners spend up to 50% of their time in the kitchen in front of the sink. A workstation sink is a multitask center, doing far more than serving as a place to hold dirty dishes. They are used for preparing meals, washing and rinsing everything, cleaning vegetables and other foods, rinsing pasta, soaking pots and pans, bathing infants, and drying spaces for glasses and dishes. The sink also serves as a water center, where an instant hot makes a cup of tea in a matter of sectors or filtered and chilled water are available on demand. And another compelling reason homeowners in Washington, D.C. gravitate to workstation sinks is they save valuable countertop space.

We find that homeowners in Washington, D.C. are in one of two range hood camps. There are those who want their range hood to be statement-making and serve as a focal point in their new dream kitchen. The other camp prefers their range hood be housed in cabinetry, hidden from view.

When developing your wish list make sure you consider both lighting and backsplash. Dream kitchens include chandeliers, pendants, LED in-drawer, in-cabinet, undercounter and undercabinet LED accent lights and other fixtures that provide the necessary task lighting for meal preparation.

When it comes to backsplashes, slabs are growing in popularity often in the same materials that is used for countertops. Slabs provide a dramatic ambience and are easy to clean.

What other features would you list for your dream kitchen? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to let us show you how to have your cake and eat it too.

The Primary Bath of Your Dreams

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 16:23:09 GMT

The Primary Bath of Your Dreams

The primary bath for homeowners in Washington, D.C. is constantly evolving. Primary baths are transforming from a place of basic functionality to a space that offers a sanctuary and daily spa-like experiences, finds a recent trends survey produced by the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Many homeowners in Washington, D.C., especially those looking to age in place, cherish primary baths that provide a few minutes a day all to themselves, devoid of text, tweet and even the patter of little feet, to relax, recharge and wash away the stresses of the day.

Open floor plan baths are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners in Washington, D.C. who are attracted to opening their primary baths to a connecting bedroom, sitting room, dressing area or other spaces in the home. Taking down bathroom walls increases the size of the bath and creates a modern open feel. In a primary bath remodel where space is limited, we often recommend installing skylights and windows above a tub to enhance the sense of space. A sculptural freestanding bath can serve as a focal point of an open floor plan bath. However, many homeowners (in name of service territory) rarely use a tub. In those cases removing the tub altogether in order to create space for a large shower with multiple showerheads and therapy options that can accommodate two bathers simultaneously is a desirable option.

Use of linear or channel drains is another hot and valued trend for primary baths. Linear drains are often a key component of curbless entrances where the bathroom and shower floor are flush and seamless. There is no sill or curb to step over. Another advantage of linear drains is that they can be placed anywhere in the shower area, including along a shower wall, at the entrance or in the center of the space. Because the floor only has to be sloped in the direction of the linear drain’s location, linear drains can eliminate the need for a shower enclosure altogether.

Similar to kitchens, a well-design bath is a clutter-free bath. Linen storage cabinets, charging stations in vanity drawers, drawer dividers to place make up, grooming aids, linens and other bathroom necessities help to maintain a clean look and clutter-free countertops. Medicine cabinets provide additional storage for prescriptions, grooming products, and smaller items. Open shelves are another popular storage solution to hold towels, toiletries and decorative items.

Blues and greens are expected to be a dominant bathroom color scheme in the coming years. Combined with white, blues and greens can provide a calming aura to the primary bath.

What components would be in your dream bathroom? Please give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to let us show you how to create a sanctuary in your home.

A Well-Designed Kitchen Is An Organized Kitchen

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 16:23:06 GMT

A Well-Designed Kitchen IS An Organized Kitchen

The number one regret among homeowners in Washington, D.C. who recently remodeled their kitchen was not investing more in storage capabilities. Storage investment comprises the dollars needed to create sufficient storage capabilities, allocating the space for storage and most importantly dedicating the time to understand how homeowners in Washington, D.C. and their families use their kitchens and the multiple roles that today’s kitchens are asked to play. Working with a professional designer to develop a storage plan will address how often you cook, entertain and hold gatherings and the other functions that you need your kitchen to provide such as office space, classroom, study, café, bar, central hub or other purposes. A great kitchen must not only look out of this world, it also must incorporate the best functionality to meets your needs.

Rule number 1 : There is no such thing as too much storage. A professional designer can create storage opportunities where none currently exist by converting unused or rarely used areas of a kitchen into customized storage space. These areas may include a pull-out corner cabinet with pull-out shelves, a lazy Susan or racks. Other common potential storage areas are spaces next to the range/cooktop/oven and refrigerator that can accommodate a narrow pull-out cabinets to store spices, baking supplies and other pantry items.

Rule number 2 : A well-designed kitchen is an organized kitchen. There should be a defined place for everything is your dream kitchen. Organizing tools are available for drawers and cabinets where you can easily store cutlery, plates, glassware, knives and other items used daily in the kitchen. Appliance caddies that store and lift stand mixers help to keep countertops clean and clutter free creating more space for work, meal preparation, studying, homework, etc. Similar clutter-free benefits are obtained from appliance garages that can be used to store coffee makers, hand mixers, grinders, and other small appliance that often are left on countertops because there is no other home for them.

Rule number 3 : Don’t forget the recycling center. Creating a recycling center in a new kitchen is a must to effectively manage trash. Typical centers feature color differentiated bins where homeowners in Washington, D.C. can deposit glass, cans and metals, and trash. You can even add a composting station to make your new dream kitchen more environmentally efficient.

Rule number 4 : Think outside the cabinet box: Open shelving has become an increasingly popular feature in new kitchens among homeowners in Washington, D.C.. Open selves are a welcome storage addition to fill odd spaces in a kitchen such as above or along the sides of a door, above the sink, next to a range hood or even hanging from the ceiling above an island. Open shelving provides homeowners in Washington, D.C. a space to showcase collectibles, family heirlooms, plates, serving pieces, mugs, sculptures or just about anything that is pleasing to the eye or makes a personal design statement.

If you would like assistance creating a clutter-free kitchen, call us at (888) 565-1025

The Hottest Bathroom Trends

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 16:23:03 GMT

The Hottest Bathroom Trends

There are multiple reasons homeowners in Washington, D.C. want to renovate their bathrooms . Many are tired of a bath that they use daily that is dingy, out-of-date and boring. Others are tired of having to fix leaks, eliminate mold and address other maintenance issues. Regardless of the reasons, most homeowners in Washington, D.C. renovate their baths to improve how they look, how they function and how they can improve the lives of their family. Keeping a finger on the pulse of the latest trends in bathroom design , aesthetics and functionality helps to ensure that an investment in a new bath can withstand the test of time and. Perform and deliver daily experiences that homeowners in Washington, D.C. expect and deserve.

A recent survey of more than 60 prominent designers by FIXR, revealed the following:

Improved functionality and look are the primary reasons homeowners decide to renovate their bathrooms.
Half of survey respondents claim that wood-look and natural materials will be dominant trends for the remainder of 2023.
Shower systems are the most in-demand feature in bathroom renovations.
Nearly 75% of respondents state that homeowners are willing to invest more in a bathroom to achieve their desired goals.

Bathrooms that not only provide functional excellence but also look great are almost assured to increase the value of homes in Washington, D.C.. That’s why bathroom renovations provide a high return on investment over time.

We find that natural materials are popular with homeowners in Washington, D.C. for their new bathrooms. The materials may include stone, wood and metals available in a multitude of colors, shapes and textures. Equally attractive and on trend are backlit mirrors that glow around the perimeter, providing ambient light for the space. Almost all backlit mirrors offer an antifog, magnification and different light settings that make applying makeup, shaving or grooming for a day or night on the town a pleasure.

Patterned and texture tiles and wall coverings are additional hot trends in bathroom design and aesthetics. For homeowners in Washington, D.C. patterned and textured tiles and wall coverings provide interest and dimension to the bath.

Other popular bath trends include:

Oversized tiles
Wallpaper
Black accents and plumbing fixtures
Colorful palettes, especially in the shower and with vanities
Freestanding vanity sinks

What trends will deliver dream experiences for your new bath, create a return on investment, and withstand the test of time? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to discuss the trends that can make your bath the envy of the neighborhood.

An Open and Shut Case

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 16:22:58 GMT

AN OPEN AND SHUT CASE

Open floor plans are among the most requested design feature of homeowners in Washington, D.C. want in their dream kitchen . The reasons why open floor plans are so popular are many. Open floor plans create a relaxed and contemporary vibe in a new kitchen. Open floor plans can help maximize available space and natural lighting. Plus, when barriers between the kitchen and other rooms in the home are eliminated, open floor plans promote social interaction. It’s easy to interact with family members, friends, guests and others, creating a sense of togetherness. It’s easy to watch children in adjoining rooms while preparing meals. Open floor plans also provide improved flexibility to use the space for multiple purposes that are in so much demand by homeowners in Washington, D.C. working either full-time or part-time from home.

With the many benefits of open floor plans, why are they not a feature of every kitchen? They can be if the kitchen is designed properly. We have seen common mistakes by homeowners in Washington, D.C. that wanted an open floor plan. Inadequate storage is among the top mistakes homeowners make in open floor plan and just about every other kitchen we see. It is the number one regret of homeowners who have recently renovated their kitchen . When you eliminate a wall to open the kitchen to other living areas, you sacrifice countertop, cabinet and shelving space. A professional kitchen designer has the skill and experience to allow you to have an open floor plan that provides the storage space you need and deserve.

Lack of separation between different living spaces is another common mistake we see with open kitchen floor plans. When we design an open floor plan kitchen, we identify defined boundaries that create both visual and functional separation between spaces. This can often be accomplished with a kitchen island, using different flooring materials and making subtle differences in lighting schemes between spaces.

Open floor plan kitchens generate more heat, steam and odors than enclosed kitchens, making proper ventilation a necessity. Insufficient ventilation will allow odors from the kitchen to permeate into other rooms and furniture in the home.

A well-designed kitchen is a well-lit kitchen. Open floor plans provide more opportunities to bring natural light into the space, but they also require careful consideration of lighting placement to ensure that the kitchen is bright and airy.

Open floor plan kitchens need to be functional and easy to use. An open floor plan needs to accommodate the workflow and ensure that the workhorses of any kitchen, – the refrigerator, sink and range/cooktop are properly positioned.

Noise control is another factor to address when planning an open floor plan kitchen otherwise noise from the kitchen can be disruptive to other family members who may be on work calls, watching television, studying, reading or listening to music. Many open floor plans require sound barriers such as acoustic panels, rugs, or curtains.

How can you maximize the benefits of an open floor plan kitchen and avoid common mistakes that comprise the beauty, functionality, and enjoyment of the space? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to let us show you how you can create the most functional, beautiful, and enjoyable kitchen of your dreams.

Top Kitchen and Bath Trends

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 16:22:52 GMT

TOP KITCHEN AND BATH TRENDS

The top trends in today’s kitchens and baths were showcased at the recent International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York City. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. can capitalize on these trends to create the kitchens and baths of their dreams.

Wellness was front and center at ICFF and certainly on trend with homeowners in Washington, D.C. who recognize that they can create in-home sanctuaries in their primary baths where they can spend a few minutes all to themselves, devoid of texts, tweets or even the demands of little feet. Adding softer touches to your bathroom to style the space in a way that is the most inviting is another hot trend known as bathscaping. Bathscaping for homeowners in Washington, D.C. may include styling around sculptural soaking tubs and shower steam systems equipped with aromatherapy, audiotherapy, chromatherapy and message therapies. These trends were ever-present in ICFF education programs and on the exhibit floor because they promote health and wellbeing.

Sustainable and ecofriendly design and materials were front and center at ICFF. Vanities made from recycled materials, renewal resources and manufacturers incorporating eco-friendly processes were in the spotlight. There were tubs at ICFF made from soy and a mineral composite that the manufacturer claims are eco-friendly.

Organic forms and curves were another ICFF bath and furniture trend. Soft, curvaceous shapes are making a comeback. In the bath, organic forms and shapes were found in a wide spectrum of products ranging from drawer pulls to soaking tubs. Organic forms provide kitchens and baths with a sense of fluidity and elegancy that serves as a foil to the rigidity of straight lines.

Metal finishes were prevalent on the ICFF show floor. Several manufacturers introduced gray-black, gunmetal and black onyx finishes.

Workstation sinks that feature built-in colanders, cutting boards, sieves and other convenient prep tools will continue to increase in popularity among homeowners in Washington, D.C. for many good reasons. Foremost are the workstation sinks which save valuable countertop space and make meal preparation and clean up easier.

Technology integration into cabinets, furniture, mirrors and other pieces continues to evolve. Cabinets with built-in charging stations, fixtures with wireless connectivity and smart home integration will continue to grow in popularity among homeowners (in name of service territory).

There were numerous bath vanities, vessel sinks, apron-front kitchen sinks and tile featuring fluting and ribbed textures that enable homeowners in Washington, D.C. to add character and a unique look to kitchens and baths.

How can you capitalize on the products and styles that are trending now to create a dream bath or kitchen that can withstand the test of time? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to let us show you how to make your dreams a reality.

What Does Building an ADU Cost in DC?

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 20:19:33 GMT

how much does an ADU Cost in Washington, DC?

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)

Unused space in your Washington D.C. home is valuable and could be an additional revenue stream from your existing home. Have you ever thought about establishing an accessory dwelling unit? Now just might be the time! Below are some questions we get asked frequently about the costs and processes involved in establishing a legal ADU in the District of Columbia.

How much does it cost to build an ADU in Washington DC?

The cost of building an ADU in Washington, DC can vary widely depending on the type, size, jurisdiction of the ADU. In 2019, the average cost of building an ADU in DC was $156,000. Taking into account price increases since the pandemic and the current rate of inflation, that average is closer to $200,000. That means a range to start the conversation is $180,000 to $220,000, depending on the nature of your project. Keep in mind multi-story gut renovations on existing structures or new construction can easily exceed $500,000 or more. On the flip side, a straight forward project with minimal changes to an existing space, and the most modest design and finishes will probably still hover around that $150,000 price range. This is based on many of the factors listed below and any other code requirements that may apply to the type of ADU you plan to build.

What factors can impact the cost of building an ADU in Washington DC?

Existing or Detached : A separate ADU will require more planning, materials, labor, and time to complete. There will be zoning and lot occupancy approvals that need to be confirmed prior to any design and construction. This will allow you to design to the space available

Style and quality: You want to make your new ADU feel like a home for your tenant without spending an arm and a leg on stylish, quality fixtures and finishes. It’s important to pick selections that have mass appeal and relevant style but also hold up over time. Spending a little bit more money upfront for a quality product can reduce the amount of replacements later on, especially when dealing with tenant turnover.

Scope and complexity of your design : Don’t overthink it. You’re not designing this space for you, you’re designing it to be appealing to any prospective tenant. That said, it's important to design for the type of tenant you want to attract to your ADU. Young professionals, artists, and new families will all be looking for different features that will appeal to them. If you take the time to think about how much you plan to charge, your location, and who your ADU will be well suited for, you will be able to market an appealing and accessible unit that will meet the needs of your future tenant.

During almost every build there are unforeseen costs and processes that arise and an ADU is not different. Some neighborhoods have requirements that you wouldn’t necessarily think about when planning your ADU. Sprinkler systems, egress locations, and occupancy requirements are just a few examples of note.

How Long Does a DC Whole Home Remodel Take?

brad@buildingwithpace.com (Brad Wilson) — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 19:19:54 GMT

What factors can impact the timeline for a whole-home remodel in Washington DC?

How long does a D.C. whole home remodel take?

If you are planning to renovate your entire house in Washington D.C., the first thing you might be wondering is how long it will take to complete. Factors like size and condition of your home, the availability of materials and labor, and the permitting approval process should all be considered. All will contribute to your project’s timeline.

In general, the construction portion of a whole house renovation in Washington D.C. can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months, and the planning can be about the same. Each project is unique though typically a whole house renovation takes about a year from the first meeting to move in.. To get a more accurate timeline for your specific home remodeling project, be sure to talk with a PACE representative. We have extensive experience in D.C. home renovations and can guide you through the process.

Here are just a few factors that affect the duration of a home remodeling project in D.C.

Current condition : The older your home is, the more time it will take to renovate it. Before any new design work takes place, it’s important to evaluate the current state of the home. Identifying structural issues, outdated electrical and mechanical systems, asbestos or lead paint, or other hidden problems that need to be addressed in order to define the extent of the restoration that is necessary. Larger homes in need of significant restoration prior to remodeling will also require more planning, engineering, materials and labor, and an extended timeline to complete the project.

Scope of work: The more extensive the scope, the longer it will take to complete. Additions, pop-ups, modifying the layout, and installing custom features, will lead to a longer timeline than a simple “facelift”. You can expedite the process by making your design priorities clear, selecting fixtures and finishes, and being open to creative solutions when issues with the scope arise. (Note: Custom features are great, they just take a little more time. If you can incorporate custom items in your timeline and budget the final product will be worth it. Just remember that these items will require more planning and patience.)

Resources: Materials and labor are always key factors on any construction timeline. If COVID-19 taught us one thing, it’s to not take the material on the shelves for granted. Increased demands highlighted the limited availability for skilled labor and had everyone shocked at the resulting lead times. To abbreviate long waits for material and large gaps in scheduling labor, hire a reputable builder that can navigate this uncertainty with a reliable network of subcontractors and suppliers.

Permitting: The first phase of a D.C. home renovation timeline revolves around the permitting process. Home remodels in Washington, D.C. are heavily permitted to ensure that the design and plan meets not only safety requirements, but also complies with historic preservation and zoning laws. In addition, Washington, D.C. has a plethora of other required construction process permits for use of public space, dumpsters, deliveries, and parking, just to name a few. The permitting process can be arduous if you don’t engage a builder with experience in D.C. It is not unusual to wait anywhere from 2-6 weeks for permit approvals. This wait time can depend on the scope and scale of your project as well as DC response time and current backlog of applications.

As you can tell, there is no single answer for how long a whole home remodel in Washington, D.C. will take. Planning for the world we live in and staying aware of the current material and labor markets will help you make more informed decisions. Sharing your questions, concerns, and time restraints with your local D.C. builder will help to ensure a smooth and timely home remodel.

How Much Does a DC Kitchen Renovation Cost?

brad@buildingwithpace.com (Brad Wilson) — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:29:00 GMT

How much should I budget for a kitchen remodel in Washington DC?

Are you planning to remodel your kitchen in Washington DC? Have you ever been involved in a construction project? There are many factors to consider that affect the outcome and budget of a kitchen renovation in DC. In Washington, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll find a custom designed kitchen for $25,000-75,000. It’s most common that a custom kitchen remodeling budget in the District of Columbia with a licensed contractor and designer using mid and/or high end fixtures is frequently around $100,000, and can be as much as $250,000. Below are just a few questions we get asked on a regular basis and what to think about when considering kitchen remodeling expenses in Washington, DC.

FAQs

How much should I budget for a kitchen remodel in Washington DC?

The average cost for a custom DC kitchen renovation with mid to high end fixtures is typically a range of $150,000 to $250,000.

What factors can impact the cost of a kitchen remodel in Washington DC?

A kitchen renovation budget in DC can be impacted by factors like the age and condition of the property, location, permits, labor and material costs. Here are a few examples of other factors that can impact your kitchen remodel budget:

Size and layout : A larger kitchen will require more planning, materials, labor, and time to complete. Changing the layout and relocating appliances will involve moving utilities like plumbing and gas lines, electrical wiring, and ductwork. This type of scope can require additional permits and trade work .
Style and quality: You want to make your new custom kitchen feel like your own without sacrificing style and quality but luxury fixtures and finishes can drive prices up. It’s important to pick selections that will match your style but also hold up over time. Sometimes spending a little bit more money upfront for a quality product can reduce the amount of headaches and replacements later on.
Scope and complexity of your design : If your kitchen refresh starts turning into a kitchen renovation, it’s time to reevaluate your priorities. Major changes like adding or removing walls, installing windows, or relocating utilities will require professional designers and engineers that can not only produce the documentation needed for permit submission, but also ensure that your new kitchen will be safe, stable, and function in a way that works for your life. A more ambitious design can extend the timeline and increase the budget of your project.

Are there any cost-saving measures I can take for my kitchen remodel in Washington DC?

Yes! Aside from the material and labor costs that are inherently associated with your DC kitchen renovation budget, there are several ways to find cost savings throughout your project.

Plan ahead: The sooner you start planning your kitchen renovation, the more prepared you will be when it comes time to start construction.
Design inspiration: Save those Pintrest boards and Instagram posts that make you stop scrolling! Knowing what you do and don’t want before you start your project can speed up the design process resulting in less time and money searching for the right thing.
Engage: Getting a design build firm engaged early in the process will provide a more comprehensive insight into the project. Communicating to your team what your vision for the project is from the very beginning will not only result in less headaches once you move into construction, but also ensure that all parties involved are working together to get your DC kitchen remodel completed on time and on budget!

Why Quartz Is King

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 09:41:46 GMT

There are many reasons why quartz is the number one countertop material selected by homeowners in Washington, D.C. and throughout the U.S. Quartz is made from engineered stone and is comparable in appearance to granite and marble however, it is not porous and is far more resistant to staining, making Quartz easy to maintain and clean. There are an almost limitless number of colors, patterns and finishes available. Quartz can even incorporate veins in interesting patterns to resemble marble and natural stone. Typical quartz slabs are the same thickness as granite, 3cm. However, quartz is heavier than granite and much stronger, allowing for larger tops and longer overhangs. Plus, quartz’ durability means that it won’t chip or crack as easily as other surfaces.

Quartz finish options are another compelling reason that makes it the number one choice among homeowners in Washington, D.C.. Quartz finishes have a depth that solid surface materials such as Corian can match.

Quartz’ nonporous surface not only makes countertops easier to clean, they also are healthier because quartz is bacteria and virus resistant. A preferred technique to keep quartz countertops clean and looking like new is to wipe them using dish soap, warm water, nonabrasive glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. that encounter tougher stains on the quartz countertops are encouraged to use a surface cleaner and nonabrasive sponge. Stubborn build ups can be removed by combining rubbing alcohol and water. This allows homeowners to remove stains without having to resort to abrasive cleaners.

Another compelling reason homeowners in Washington, D.C. are attracted to quartz countertops is that they don’t need to be resealed. Buffing quartz with a soft cloth is all that typically is needed to create an extra shiny finish.

Is quartz the right choice for your new dream kitchen and bath? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002, and let’s discuss how we can help you create a kitchen or bath that becomes the envy of your neighborhood.

The New Meaning of Home

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 09:22:42 GMT

COVID 19 dramatically changed the way homeowners in Washington, D.C. and nationwide think about and use their homes. A new America at Home study identified a “historic paradigm shift with homeowners’ attitudes, lifestyles, design preferences and purchasing decisions undergoing a complete reconstruction.” The study was conducted in three phases, at the start of the pandemic, in the middle of COVID 19, and at the end of the health emergency, and revealed key insights into how Americans and homeowners in Washington, D.C. view their homes and the most important features that are wanted and needed and the most important features that are wanted and needed.

Emotional wellbeing was the most important concern of survey respondents, followed by financial wellbeing, mental health and physical health and fitness. Homeowners want their living spaces to provide comfort, security, relaxation, reflection, and a gathering space for family. The factors that affect wellness in a home include germ-resistant surfaces, home technology, energy efficiency, increased storage and better-equipped kitchens .

The focus on wellbeing was also reflected in homeowners hopes for the future. When survey respondents were asked what they were most hopeful for, the most popular response was immediate family (62%) followed by a better healthier me (39%) and my home (34%). Factors identified that were most important to wellness in the home included private outdoor space or garden (67%), energy conservation (65%) and water conservation (54%).

Homeowners in Washington, D.C. want spaces in their home that work for their new lifestyle. We have assisted many homeowners in Washington, D.C. respond to the desire for increased wellness and the changing functional needs of a home that include creating an in-home spa and specific zones in the kitchen that can double as a study, classroom, office, café, and conference room among other needs.

What are the wellness needs that will best serve you and your family? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002 and let us discuss how you can improve the wellness, efficiency and enjoyment of your home.

A Rainbow of Colors

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 09:13:13 GMT

We are seeing a gentle shift in color preferences among homeowners in Washington, D.C. who are renovating their kitchens , baths and other spaces in their homes. Neutral color schemes that include shades of white, beige and gray remain extremely popular because they provide a clean, timeless and versatile palette that allows homeowners in Washington, D.C. to use pops of other colors to create unique and personal design statements.

There is definite movement away from the all-white kitchen. And if you plan to sell your home in the near future, it may be best to stay away from all white. A Real Simple survey of 4,700 recent and prospective homebuyers found that homes with dark gray interior paint colors received higher offer prices than homes painted all white. The survey also found that painted bathrooms with earth tones and front doors that are black or rosy brown also helped to increase sale prices.

Hot pink is hot right now. This may be in anticipation of the release of the new Barbie movie, but more likely it reflects an increase interest in maximalist styles and a movement away from more muted shades. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. that are attracted to maximalist styles gravitate toward an eclectic mix of patterns, colors, textures and objects that produce a rich and vibrant space. Maximalist styles allow homeowners in Washington, D.C. to make a creative and individual design statement that is both fun and exciting.

Hot pink is only one of the bold colors that is trending in kitchens and baths. Bold colors are being specified as accent colors that include dark blues, rich greens and vibrant reds that add a visual and pleasing contrast to more neutral background colors.

Two-tone contrasts are another hot trend in kitchen and bath design because it allows homeowners in Washington, D.C. to create visually interesting and dynamic focal points in their home. Recent examples of two-tone palettes include kitchens that featured white upper cabinets with dark countertops or islands. Combining light and dark adds depth to a space and a visual appeal to a kitchen or bath.

We have seen a growing interest among homeowners in Washington, D.C. that are attracted to using different shades of a single color to add harmony and sophistication to their new kitchen or bath. Examples may include different shades of gray, blue or green that add depth and sophistication to the space.

In creating your dream kitchen or bath, personal preferences, style and design aesthetic are the most important factors to consider. Ask yourself, how you want your kitchen to look and feel when the renovation is complete. What personal statement do you want to make? We can help guide you and provide options that will make you smile every time you enter your new kitchen. Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit us at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002 and let us help you to color your world with a color palette and design that are distinctive, personal and the envy of the neighborhood.

How to Create a Realistic Budget for Your Dream Kitchen

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 09:03:34 GMT

How much will it cost is the number one question homeowners in Washington, D.C. ask when they plan to create their dream kitchen . That’s a difficult question to answer, because there are so many factors to consider. That is the reason many homeowners in Washington, D.C. have a difficult time determining their goals and setting a realistic budget for their kitchen remodel without the help of a professional. Sure, you could search the Internet or watch home improvement television for estimates and ideas, but those sources are riddled with misinformation and misrepresentations. Home improvement television often does not include the cost of appliances, custom features that you want, design fees or infrastructure expenses, e.g. the movement of electrical lines, plumbing lines, structural changes, ventilation and so on. Plus, their timetables typically don’t include time for design, code approval, scheduling, product ordering and other factors, giving homeowners in Washington, D.C. unrealistic and unachievable expectations.

Online resources also do not account for the myriad of variables and decisions that influence cost. Imagine trying to estimate the cost of buying a new car without knowing the make, model, or special features. That’s what online resources attempt to do when offering budgeting guidance for new kitchens .

The major factors that influence the cost of a new kitchen include:

Goals of the kitchen remodel
Size of the kitchen
Scope of the renovation
Quality and type of selected materials and finishes
Quality of the renovation plan
Quality of plan implementation

Cabinets are the most influential product in the aesthetic design of a kitchen. The cost of cabinets is driven by door style, material and finish. Simply changing the style or finish of a cabinet can increase cost by 10 to 30 percent. Cabinets also are key to the longevity of your kitchen. That’s why they are often considered the backbone of the kitchen. It’s easier to replace an appliance. It’s more difficult to change cabinetry. Invest in cabinets that can withstand the test of time.

Keys to controlling costs include:

Depend on a single source to coordinate and manage the entire project. Relying on multiple vendors can be penny wise and dollar foolish. Working with multiple suppliers for appliances, cabinets, countertops, lighting, etc. takes more time, is almost impossible to coordinate and will almost always cost more than working with a single source that can put all the pieces of the puzzle together and maintain an agreed-to budget.
Make a complete plan and budget and stick to it. Don’t start demolition until you’ve specified all of the products and finishes you need and an order schedule is established. When you change your mind, you delay the project’s completion and increase your cost. Recent industry surveys found changing scope during the course of a renovation is the reason why 33 percent of kitchen renovation projects go over budget.

The best way to establish a realistic and achievable budget for your new kitchen is to give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit us at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002 and let us guide you through the variables that influence cost and provide recommendations to help ensure your dreams are realized.

The Power Shower

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 08:54:08 GMT

Increasing, we find homeowners in Washington, D.C. gravitate to spa-like shower systems as part of their bathroom remodel because they can provide a few minutes every day all to themselves, devoid of texts, tweets and the even the demands of little feet. A multifunctional shower system helps promote health and wellbeing with systems that can relax and rejuvenate tired muscles and soothe arthritic pains, remove toxins from the body and enhance circulatory functions. Plus, several studies have found that taking a shower can enhance creativity.

The reasons that taking a shower can make you more creative are not entirely understood. Several studies attribute the creative benefits result from being in an environment that is calm and relaxing, which allows the mind to wonder and become more nimble. Plus, when you give your brain a chance to wander it can make spontaneous connections between seemingly unrelated concepts or problems, leading to creative insights and problem-solving.

Keys to creating a spa-like shower in your home include having sufficient space. A standard shower typically is 3 feet by 5 feet. However, most homeowners in Washington, D.C. that want to create a spa-like shower require a larger space. This often is created by eliminating the tub and using that space for a shower area that is spacious and open.

Using a glass enclosure, glass wall or no enclosure contribute to the sense of openness and spa-like feel. Eliminating the need for enclosure requires the use of a linear drain long a back wall or side wall and sloping the floor in the direction of the drain. This technique turns the bath into a wet room providing an open floor plan with similar benefits to open floor plan kitchens.

Homeowners in Washington, D.C. also are attracted to natural materials for their spa-like shower areas that feature stone, wood or bamboo flooring, wall coverings or accent pieces that create a sense of calm in the space.

Use of wall mounted showerheads and body sprays combined with an overhead rainfall shower head and handheld shower provide for an immersive shower experience that can message tired muscles and deliver a more luxurious shower experience.

In addition to message therapies, homeowners in Washington, D.C. also welcome steam systems that helps improve circulation, eliminate toxins from the body, rejuvenates skin follicles and alleviates congestion, clears nasal passages, and soothes irritated airways among other benefits.

To take a shower experience up several more notches, consider music systems and color and aromatherapies. No spa shower system would be complete without benches or seating where homeowners in Washington, D.C. can relax, enjoy treatments and therapies and shave legs.

The secret to designing and enjoying a spa-like shower is to create a space that is peaceful, spacious and has the appropriate number of bells and whistles that provide a refuge from stresses of the day. To learn how you can create an in-home spa for your family and yourself, give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002.

A More Intelligent Kitchen

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 08:42:33 GMT

Interest in well-connected kitchens has skyrocketed among homeowners in Washington, D.C.. Technological innovations have made kitchens easier to use, more efficient and more enjoyable. Smart appliances are a main feature of a technologically savvy kitchen. Ovens, dishwashers, refrigerators, coffee makers, countertop appliances, faucets and steam and microwave ovens offer Bluetooth connectivity that can be operated remotely from a smart phone or tablet and by voice command through Amazon Alexa, Siri or Google Assistant. You can have your kitchen appliances recommend recipes based on ingredients in your fridge and pantry, play music during meal preparation and dining, set timers and preheat ovens on your way home.

WIFI connectivity also provides homeowners in Washington, D.C. with upgrade opportunities that previously were unimaginable such as adding air frying capability to an existing oven. Another reason why smart appliances are being specified for many new kitchens in Washington, D.C. are safety features that include automatic shutoffs for ovens and cooktops, notifications that a refrigerator door was left ajar, automatic ordering of groceries and dishwasher detergent when supplies are low or automatic notifications when service is required.

Smart lighting is becoming a staple in new kitchens in Washington, D.C. as well. Lights can be controlled from a smart phone or tablet or voice activated, which allows homeowners to adjust lighting levels, brightness and color.

Smart pantri es and refrigerators alert homeowners in Washington, D.C. when food stuffs near their expiration dates and when inventory levels require reordering.

Smart appliances in the kitchen can be integrated into smart home systems that allow homeowners in Washington, D.C. to monitor and direct the performance of their kitchen from a central hub that may also control entertainment and security systems, heating and cooling and other facets of the home.

What are the smart features that will take your dream kitchen to new heights? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002 and let us show you how to leverage technology to make your kitchen the envy of the neighborhood.

Secrets to Creating A Dream Bath

Tue, 30 May 2023 13:01:03 GMT

Many homeowners in Washington, D.C. have been spending more time in their homes than they could have ever imagined a couple of years ago. Working either full-time or part-time has illuminated the need and desire for a space that provides a refuge from day-to-day stresses. That desire has created a boom in demand for a primary bath that provides a few minutes for homeowners in Washington, D.C. all to themselves devoid of texts, tweets or even the sound of little feet. During the past several years, we have designed numerous primary baths that provide spa-like experiences in the home. Here are a few of the secrets that we have learned to help homeowners in Washington, D.C. create the bath of their dreams .

When most homeowners in Washington, D.C. discuss what they want in their new bath they often request a freestanding tub or a large walk-in shower with multiple spray devices. We almost always recommend these components, but we also add other features that many homeowners in Washington, D.C. overlook or have not considered. A wildly popular feature that contributes to spa-like experiences are therapies that can be added to a tub or shower. These include massage, color, aroma and sound that help homeowners in Washington, D.C. to recharge, rejuvenate and improve their health and wellbeing. We often recommend steam systems as well. The health benefits of steam have been known for centuries. These include improved muscle relaxation and pain relief, better circulation and sleep, and stress relief, among numerous other benefits.

Heated floors add an element of luxury that is hard to match, are not budget breaking and often overlooked. Imagine waking up on a cold winter morning and entering a bath with warm and toasty floors? Similar to kitchens, baths need to accommodate storage needs. We often recommend a mix that includes vanities, cabinets, open shelving and shower niches sized to accommodate shampoo, conditioners, liquid soap, razors, and other products that our clients use daily.

Smart mirrors are another component that help to deliver extraordinary experiences daily. Features often include adjustable integrated LED lighting providing optimal illumination to apply makeup or shave, touchscreen controls, antifog capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity, voice controls and digital assistant integration with other smart home devices.

Investing in higher-quality plumbing fixtures deliver returns that homeowners in Washington, D.C.want and deserve. A thermostatic shower valve allows you to set your shower to a desired temperature and achieve that temperate in a few seconds. There is no need to manually balance hot and cold taps. Placing the shower controls near the entrance or immediately outside of the shower space eliminates the possibility that you will be sprayed with cold water when you turn your shower on.

How can you create an in-home spa that provides a few minutes daily all to yourself, improves your health and recharges your batteries? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002 and let us show you how to make your dreams a reality.

Let There Be Light

Tue, 23 May 2023 12:46:11 GMT

More than 9 in 10 homeowners reported that high-quality lighting is an important design element for their homes, found a recent lighting trend report and forecast conducted by The Harris Poll for Lutron. The company revealed that in addition to natural light, homeowners want customized lighting solutions especially in the kitchen and primary baths . We have found that homeowners in Washington, D.C. gravitate toward creating in-home spas that include customized solutions that create a relaxing and rejuvenating vibe through products, fixtures, design elements and light.

Kitchen lighting also has come front and center. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. require task lighting to make meal preparation easier and more enjoyable and ambient lighting to create a welcoming and warm atmosphere for family members and guests. An effective lighting plan is required to help separate spaces in open floor plan kitchens and homes. We often specify pendants or chandeliers over an island but recommend ambient lighting solutions for use in the connected living and eating spaces.

Bringing Mother Nature into the home is one of the hottest trends in home design today. This can be accomplished in kitchens and baths by installing windows, glass doors and skylights that let natural light stream into the space. When natural light may not be practical or possible, LED lights can offer homeowners in Washington, D.C. the opportunity to change color temperature and lighting output that can mirror actual sunlight.

The need for effective lighting is not limited to the kitchen or primary bath. Walk-in closets and pantries also can be greatly enhanced by effective lighting. Lighting plays a key role in helping family members prepare for the day or a night on the town.

Most homeowners in Washington, D.C. select lighting fixtures based on their aesthetics and may not be aware of the impact that lighting can have on the look, feel and functionality of a kitchen, bath or other room in the home. That’s where a professional designer can make a huge difference. Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002 and let us show you the best way to put your home in its best light.

The Hottest Bathroom Trends

Tue, 16 May 2023 12:17:13 GMT

The primary bath has been transformed from a functional room to brush teeth, bathe and prepare for the day to an in-home refuge where homeowners in Washington, D.C. can spend a few minutes all to themselves devoid of texts, tweets and even little feet to recharge and rejuvenate their body, mind and spirit by washing away the stresses of the day.

The hottest bathroom remodel trends for homeowners in Washington, D.C. marry design principles that create a serene, calming space with health promoting and stress reducing systems and fixtures that include steam and message, water, color, sound and aroma therapies. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. are gravitating toward ceramic tiles in rich bold colors that make a dramatic and personal statement in the bath. Recent surveys found that blue, green and black tile demand increased significantly along with a movement away from traditional subway tiles to smaller, square shaped, nonuniform and textured tiles. Textured tiles create a layered effect that is extremely receptive to light.

Using diffused lighting to create a warmth and ambience in the bath is another hot trend. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. are advised not to simply place a flush-mounted fixture in the center of the bathroom or a light bar over the mirror. A single light over the mirror can shadow the user’s face and provide insufficient amounts of light on his or her neck and lower chin. That’s not a good lighting plan, especially for women who may need the light to prepare for the day and for men, many of whom run a razor-sharp object along their throat in the morning before having a cup of coffee. Instead, we often recommend diffused lighting because it prevents shadows or glare while grooming in front of a mirror or at the vanity. Fixtures with milky, opaque glass shades or clear glass shades with a prismatic surface spread light evenly while preserving light quality.

Natural wood vanities are also a hot trend. Homeowners in Washington, D.C. are often wowed by natural wood vanities that serve as a foil to the hard surfaces of tubs, tile and countertop materials. Another reason for natural wood vanities is that they are more durable in a wet environment than painted surfaces.

Wall-mounted faucets for the bath are another trend, dramatically increasing in popularity for many good reasons. Wall-mounted faucets create extra countertop space and a cleaner, sleeker look to the bath. Ease of cleaning is another reason homeowners in Washington, D.C. are opting for wall-mounted faucets. Wall-mounted faucets are not surrounded by water that is left behind on the countertop, helping to eliminate the possibility of creating a breeding ground for germs in the bath. Because these taps are positioned above the sink, they don’t need to be wiped clean nearly as often as a deck-mounted faucet.

Curved and a rched showers, tubs and entranceways also have become increasingly popular among homeowners in Washington, D.C. and reflect one of the hottest trends in design today. Curved fixtures and entryways produce a more relaxed and softer feel to a space, serving to remove harsh lines and sharp corners. The softer vibe of curved surfaces brings a natural feel to the bath.

How can you capitalize on the latest bathroom remodel trends to create an in-home refuge that promotes health, wellbeing and rejuvenation for all members of your family? Give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002 and let’s discuss how we can turn your dreams into a reality.

Best Practices for a Clutter-Free Kitchen

Tue, 09 May 2023 12:10:38 GMT

The number one regret among homeowners (Washington, D.C. and nationwide who recently renovated their kitchens was insufficient storage and organizational tools. We highly recommend to homeowners Washington, D.C. to plan for adequate storage because a well-designed kitchen is an organized kitchen. A good starting point is to measure and inventory the kitchenware that you use most often and that cater to your lifestyle and family needs.

An almost endless array of options is available to store cookware, food, utensils, countertop appliances (blenders, mixers, etc.), recycling containers and so on. The first step in maximizing storage is to assess what currently exists in your kitchen. Inventory and measure your cookware, bakeware, kitchen tools, storage containers, cutlery, knives, utensils, gadgets, and countertop appliances and estimate frequency of use. This is a great time to purge items that you never use too. Space permitting, items that you use infrequently or even as little as once a year (the large roasting pan for Thanksgiving turkey) can be relegated to upper kitchen cabinets or to other rooms in the home to open up prime real estate for the utensils and equipment that you use most frequently.

When you identify your most-used items, you’ll empower your kitchen designer to make your kitchen function so much more effectively than it would with standard sized drawer widths and depths. A combination of drawer cabinets and shelf cabinets can be customized to your individual preferences.

For example, a drawer at the top of the cabinet combined with shelving underneath allows for storage of smaller, frequently used items in the more reachable drawer, while the shelf storage accommodates larger and less frequently used items, such as food processors and stand mixers. Not only does this approach save time in preparing meals, it also is easier on your back.

Here are several of our favorite storage solutions.

Drawer organizers: These tools allow homeowners Washington, D.C. to have a specific place for flatware, utensils, knives, and other kitchen tools.

Lid storage: Lid storage is a welcomed option because pan and pot lids are often difficult to organize. A lid storage compartment typically comprises a drawer within a drawer with a shallow compartment on top for lids and the pots located underneath. The drawer within a drawer slides individually.

Vertical storage: Many homeowners Washington, D.C. first think of storing their kitchen utensils in a horizontal position. Vertical storage compartments for whisks, spatulas, slotted spoons, etc., make it easier for you to see and retrieve those tools. A vertical storage cabinet can often make use of small spaces that might otherwise go unused, such as spaces next to the range or kitchen sink that can house cookie sheets, cutting boards, trays and platters. Vertical storage is also appropriate for cutlery. It’s not difficult to divide a drawer into small deep individual compartments for knives, forks, teaspoons, soup spoons and salad forks.

Corner cabinet storage: Corner cabinets with pullout storage make productive use of space that can be used to store pots, pans, food items, small appliances or other commonly used kitchen items.

In-drawer charging systems: A docking drawer can not only be used to store kitchen items, but it also serves a place to charge laptops, cellphones, tablets and contributes to cleaner lines in a newly remodeled kitchen because it eliminates the need to see wires and set devices on countertops.

Broom closets: We often recommend, space permitting, homeowners Washington, D.C. install a tall narrow cabinet that can be used to house brooms, mops, vacuum cleaners and other tall cleaning tools that is equipped with a power outlet for recharging.

Pantries: Either walk-in or pull out in kitchens where space is at a premium.

Spice cabinets: Homeowners Washington, D.C. who cook often continue to relish having spices organized and easy to reach. Often spice cabinets are located in a narrow pullout cabinet next to the cooktop or range.

When you inventory your kitchen, make a list of and measure items that you currently store and those that you would like to store. Remember, storage capacity affects usable counter space. Many existing kitchens include mixers, blenders, food processors, coffee pots, et. al. sitting on the counter because there is insufficient cabinet space. Cluttered countertops eliminate the possibility of having a clean look.

If you would like assistance for creating a clutter-free kitchen, call us at (888) 565-1025 or visit our showroom at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002.

Best Practices for Planning Your Dream Kitchen

Tue, 02 May 2023 12:08:30 GMT

We know that homeowners in Washington, D.C. spend months researching different products, styles, kitchen design trends and other factors that they believe they want and need before coming to our showroom to create their dream kitchens. We find that despite their best efforts most homeowners in Washington, D.C. don’t know where to begin. Here are best practices to help save time, improve focus and make the process a lot more enjoyable and fun.

Write down where your existing kitchen does not work. This may include lack of counter space, dim lighting, outdated kitchen cabinets , lack of storage, maneuverability, and flow, among others. Concurrently, document the must haves. These may include custom cabinets, creating additional space, bringing more natural light to the space, a pantry that has a place for everything and everything has a place.

Make a wish list that addresses your lifestyle. Kitchens no longer serve utilitarian purposes. For many homeowners Washington, D.C. the kitchen must serve multiple functions ranging from the hub of the home to office space, classroom and café. Knowing the multifunctional requirements of your dream kitchen enables designers to create different zones in the kitchen for different tasks, which serves to maximize the functionality of the available space.

Invest wisely. The number one regret of homeowners nationwide who recently renovated their kitchens is lack of storage space. Invest in storage. Other areas of the kitchen where making an investment will pay multiple dividends are quality cabinets and countertops. There’s a reason why engineered quartz is the preferred countertop for homeowners Washington, D.C. It is timeless, easy to clean, won’t stain and offers styles and colors that will meet almost any décor requirement.

Budget realistically. While home improvement television shows can be a great source of inspiration and ideas, those shows do homeowners Washington, D.C. a disservice with their timelines and budgets. Almost always, the budgets do not include the cost of labor and the timelines do not account for time necessary for design, permit approval, scheduling, product fulfillment and other factors. If you need assistance with creating a realistic budget or prioritizing your investment in a dream new kitchen, give us a call at (888) 565-1025 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 1140 3rd St NE, 2nd Floor Suite 200, Washington D.C. 20002.

Are Two Bathroom Sinks Better Than One?

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 08:59:45 GMT

Homeowners in Washington, DC almost always opt for two separate sinks when renovating their primary bath . That makes a lot of sense given the fact that most everyone is extremely busy, and on most days more than one person will need access to their primary bath vanity at the same time. However, double sinks may not be the best option for all bathrooms, especially those where space is at a premium. What’s best for your dream bath ?

When homeowners in Washington, DC opt for double sinks in their primary bath, they receive dedicated space that they can call their own. There’s space on one side for makeup, nail polish remover, cosmetics, multiple brushes, etc. and on the other side shaving cream, razors, and other similar items and there are few opportunities that personal grooming items travel from one sink to the second sink. Double sinks add order and privacy to the primary bath .

Space is the key challenge to installing double sinks. If there is sufficient room, the decision is a no-brainer. The minimum amount of space needed is at least six feet. This will allow for sufficient space between two sinks to prevent users from bumping into one another.

Storage is another consideration for homeowners in Washington, DC. Double sinks require space underneath each sink for plumbing supply and waste lines. Double sinks also limit the amount of available countertop space.

When space is a premium, a single sink may make sense. To create privacy areas, we will specify for many homeowners in Washington, DC two faucets in a single sink, often placed at opposite ends of the sink area.

Pedestal sinks are another option for smaller primary baths. We address some homeowners space challenges by specifying two pedestal sinks for the primary bath providing the privacy that they want within a smaller footprint.

Pedestal sinks also help to maximize storage areas because the plumbing is concealed in the back of the pedestal.

Single sinks also provide for more countertop space which provides the space most homeowners in Washington, DC need for their grooming aids.

How many sinks would be ideal for your primary bath? Give us a call at (888) 711-7223 or make an appointment to visit us at 3rd St NE, Washington, DC 20002 and let’s develop a plan for your dream bathroom.

The Hottest Trends in Kitchen and Bath Designs

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 08:59:46 GMT

The Kitchen & Bath Industry (KBIS) serves as a primary venue for kitchen and bath manufacturers to introduce new products, showcase innovative technologies and highlight trends that they expect to dominate the future of kitchens , baths , and home design. KBIS 2023, held January 31-February 2 in Las Vegas did not disappoint.

KBIS confirmed that wellness is not a fad or fleeting infatuation. Wellness will continue to grow in popularity among homeowners in Washington, DC who want and expect their homes to perform more effectively and efficiently. KBIS exhibitors showcased the latest products and technologies that enable homeowners in Washington, DC to create in-home refuges and spa-quality experiences in their primary baths . Featured were therapeutic showers offering steam, color, aroma and sound therapies that provide a refuge for homeowners in Washington, DC to spend a few minutes a day, all to themselves, devoid of text, tweets and even little feet to relax, recharge and wash away the stresses of the day.

Workstation sinks were another trending feature at KBIS. BOCCHI’s Baveno Hide-Away Sink System won Best in Show at KBIS 2023. This workstation allows homeowners in Washington, DC to easily convert the sink into continuous counter space that completely hides the faucet, maximizing workspace. Sink covers, multiple faucet options, cutting boards, colanders and roller mats create a true workstation sink experience.

Soft curves to countertops, faucets, soaking tubs and sinks were prevalent throughout the KBIS show floor, affording a new modern style that is calming and relaxing, evoking the desire for a less tenuous and stressful post pandemic time. Industrial chic was another KBIS trend. Faucets featuring springs, dual white and polished nickel finishes and rounded square levers were reminiscent of the motifs closely associated with the industrial revolution.

Fluted surfaces were another ever-present feature at KBIS. All of the major quartz manufacturers featured pleated slabs as did most of the porcelain tile manufacturers. The same manufacturers also introduced an expanded inventory of products that can be used indoors as well as outdoors to provide more options for homeowners in Washington, DC that want to expand their living space outdoors without compromising style, quality or functionality.

Two other trends at KBIS were smarter toilets and products made specifically to improve laundry room look and experiences. We saw great looking sinks and fixtures that take laundry rooms to the next level. Similarly, toilets appear to have become much more intelligent, many of which featured bidet functions, seats that automatically open and close, night lights, self-cleaning capabilities and blue-tooth functionality.

To determine how you can capitalize on the hottest trends in kitchen and bath, give us a call at (888) 711-7223 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 3rd St NE, Washington, DC 20002 and let us show you how to convert dreams into dream spaces.

Having No Regrets About Your Kitchen Remodel

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 08:59:47 GMT

The five biggest regrets of homeowners who remodeled their kitchen , according to a CountryLiving survey, are: not enough countertop space, not enough storage, poorly positioned cabinetry, not selecting better quality materials and not enough power outlets. The good news for homeowners in Washington, DC is all of these shortcomings are completely preventable.

We know that homeowners in Washington, DC spend months researching different products, styles, looks and kitchen designs before making the decision to renovate what they currently have. If you want to know the best way to determine if you are working with the right designer and the right showroom, look no further than the questions that they ask and the information that they want. The best designers become leaders in their fields by exceeding their clients’ expectations. Before talking about a cabinet, countertop or dishwasher, they will determine how you want to use your kitchen and for what specific purposes. They need to know who in your family will use the kitchen most often, how often you entertain and the type of entertaining that you do. Knowing all of the uses and users will help your designer determine your priorities and budget and provide the information your designer needs to meet your functionality requirements. The list of uses also enables designers to determine the types and amount of lighting that you will need for reading, TV watching, homework, baking, cooking, entertaining or just lounging.

Designers want to know what you like most and least about your existing kitchen. They want to know about your style. They want to know what you want to store in your kitchen. A well-designed kitchen is an organized kitchen. Most homeowners in Washington, DC appreciate clean, clutter-free countertops. When a designer knows the utensils, cutlery, plates, pots, pans, books, computers, small appliances, etc. that you want at your fingertips, your designer can develop the right storage solutions for your project.

Designers want to know how you want the new space to feel. They want to know your favorite colors and styles. Create idea books on Pinterest or Houzz.com and add your designer as a contributor. These idea books should include photos of and information about the appliances, faucets, sinks, lighting fixtures, cabinets, door hardware, tile, granite, stone or other materials you would like to use in your new kitchen. Once your designer knows your preferences, he or she can develop the solutions that meet your needs, preferences and budget.

All of this information is necessary before a design discussion can begin. If you want to avoid the most common regrets of those who recently remodeled their kitchens, find a designer who knows the right questions to ask and the information that he or she needs to create the kitchen of your dreams.

If you are ready to start a conversation, give us a call at (888) 711-7223 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 3rd St NE, Washington, DC 20002.

Insurance To Get Exactly What You Want From A Remodeling Project

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 08:59:48 GMT

Renovating an existing space or building a new kitchen , bath, closet or laundry room is a major investment of time and resources for homeowners in Washington, DC. The Internet is both our friend and foe. While the Internet provides access to every product and service that you could ever need for a renovation project, the amount of information available online can be overwhelming, is often incorrect, is likely to cause analysis paralysis, contributes to unrealistic expectations and budgets, and elevates stress levels. That’s where a professional kitchen and bath designer can be your greatest asset. Professional designers specialize in making order out of chaos.

A primary reason why homeowners in Washington, DC hire a professional designer is that their existing kitchen or other spaces does not work as well as it should. In homes where the existing space has an irregular shape, feels cramped, or does not feel comfortable, a professional designer can craft creative solutions to make smaller spaces appear larger, see potentialities that others don’t and transform a cramped disjointed space into a floor plan that exceeds everyone’s expectations.

Partnering with a professional kitchen designer adds value to your home because professional designers keep their fingers on the pulse of trends, capitalize on opportunities and know what homeowners in Washington, DC desire and value.

Professional designers are also familiar with code requirements. This expertise is especially helpful for homeowners in Washington, DC that are renovating an older home. In many jurisdictions, codes will affect the size and type of range hood or fan and if you will need to update electrical, ventilation or plumbing systems. Professional designers can assure that your new kitchen will meet the requirements of today’s building codes.

Professional designers can reduce and all but eliminate stress by understanding your aesthetic and goals and providing recommendations that meet your kitchen’s stylistic and performance needs. Professional designers can provide the guidance homeowners in Washington, DC need to create and maintain a realistic budget and have the expertise to recommend budget-friendly alternatives if necessary.

Professional designers also save homeowners in Washington, DC tons of time by having the knowledge, experience, and research abilities to quickly identify products and designs that meet homeowner requirements.

If you have dreamed of creating a stunning new kitchen, with custom cabinetry, chef-quality appliances, the latest technology and a result that makes you smile every time you cross the threshold, call us at (888) 711-7223 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 3rd St NE, Washington, DC 20002 and let us show you how to make your dream a reality.