Emerging Kitchen Trends to Watch For in 2015

Are you going to tackle some home improvement projects this year? Whether you are doing a complete kitchen remodel or just updating a few details, it’s important to seek balance between the classic and the trendy. To give you a dose of inspiration, here’s a list of design elements that are on the rise:

Furniture style features. Designers predicts that furniture-style cabinetry and other features will be one of the top trends in 2015.

Open shelving. A big hit last year, open shelving will remain a practical solution for any kitchen space.

Wallpaper. Incorporating wallpaper that wows is an easy way to add a beautiful contrast to simple palette. According to designers, this will be a major trend this year.

Statement ceilings. Expect to look up into the ceiling with unique lighting that creates illusion and classic embellishments.

Metallics. Warmer metals, such as gold, bronze, and copper, provide a stunning accent and will have a moment to shine this year.

Textured and tactile materials. Designers expect to see more of natural marble and granite in honed finishes, as well as wood in its natural form rather than high-gloss or smooth finishes.  

Black. This bold color is a simple way to introduce classic, sophisticated look into your kitchen. Opt for black cabinetry or countertop to start creating an elegant kitchen.

What kitchen trends are you loving lately? Share it with us!

Top Bathroom Trends for 2015 and Beyond

Last year, curbless showers, matte tiles, and floating vanity were on the spotlight. Come 2015, we expect to see a lot of upgrades from sinks to tubs and tiles. Designers agree that bathroom renovation trends are geared toward simplicity and a more contemporary look. While the traditional, cozy charm of today’s bathroom aren’t to be completely abandoned, homeowners are expected to favor clean, modern lines.

We’ve spotted these bathroom trends that everyone should be considering, especially if you’re planning a remodel anytime soon:

Freestanding bathtubs. Soaking and free-standing tubs will be a hit while a decline in traditional glass-encased rain shower tubs can be expected.

Under-mounted “leggy” sinks. Many designers agree that homeowners may not find a place to stash all their stuff with cabinets on bowl-shaped sinks, so they will most likely look for a more modern sink.

Steam and multi-head showers. They’re all the rage for 2015, especially for those who are looking for that spa-like experience.

Shades of Gray. This year, gray is the new white. We’ve seen a fair share of all-white bathrooms, along with blue and beige last year. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, gray is becoming the fastest-growing shade in the bathroom.

Quartz. For countertops, designers are seeing quartz as a huge player.

Black tiles. Black tiles will be something bolder but very effective in giving your bathroom a distinct style.

Heated floors. The radiant heat isn’t only perfect for winter mornings, it’s also practical and cost-effective.

Would you incorporate any of these trendy choices? We’d love to know!

Six Steps to a Successful Home Remodel

If you have a kitchen, bathroom, or any home remodeling project, there are some things to keep in mind to ensure the job goes smoothly and turn out as planned. Whether you are increasing the size of your space, changing the layout, or adding a little functionality to an area, follow these steps to a successful home remodel.

Have a remodeling plan. A solid remodeling plan before doing any project can help you stay on the right path. Be sure to plan every aspect -- from selecting materials to appliances and fixtures. Avoid last-minute decisions and keep costs under control. If you need to find a place to stay while the construction is underway, plan this ahead, too.

Have a contingency fund ready. Sometimes there are unforeseen issues to be addressed like damages to walls or structural problems. Be sure to set aside 5-10% contingency fund.

Keep a detailed contract in hand. This is essential before agreeing to start with any remodeling project. A detailed written contract should indicate the start and end date, a list of tasks to be done, warranties, and other terms.

Know that there will be ups and downs. Getting an upgrade can be exciting but you may encounter unexpected delays and inevitable inconvenience.

Find good help. Always interview the contractor and check their credentials, license and liability insurance. Hire a professional with a good record in the Better Business Bureau and positive customer references. Lastly, get help from someone you can trust.

Be involved. If you find something unsatisfactory, let the contractor know. Remember, a remodeler can do amazing things but they can’t read minds. Communicating well, being around and "on top" of the job will help you visualize the picture-perfect outcome.

January Home Improvement Checklist

The new year brings a glow of fresh start for the days ahead. While it can be a downer because of the cold winter weather, it’s a great time to give your home some TLC and craft your home improvement plans. These are just some of the ways to get the year off to a good start.

Set goals. If you plan to save up for a renovation, get some inspiration and start planning. Seeing the big picture can help you keep an eye on the prize.

Get cozy. As you get back to your usual routine, don’t forget to keep yourself and the whole house warm. Adding extra candles, layers of rugs, cozy blankets and throws, and lighting up the fireplace are surefire ways to make a space a light-hearted spot.

Sort out Christmas decorations. As you keep your holiday decorations, be sure to stack them in a box. Doing this now can save you tons of headache next year.

Install flood alarms. Even minor flood can be flat out frustrating. Installing sensors in some flood-prone areas can alert you before it becomes a disaster.

Sanitize hard surfaces. Now that the cold and flu season is upon us, tables and countertops should be kept clean and sanitized regularly. Don’t miss out faucets, door knobs, and other sneakier surfaces to keep illness at bay.

Look for danger signs. Inspect your home after every storm and check for leaks and any damages to your roof and siding.

Out with the old, in with the new. Take some time to clean up your pantry and overstuffed closet and drawers. Go one step further by replacing old appliances with energy-efficient products.

If you are planning to give an outdated kitchen or bath a makeover this year, give Milan Stoneworks a call. We can help you fulfill your home improvement resolutions!