Are you thinking about remodeling your home? Or perhaps you are in the middle of a project right now? If so, this post might be crucial for making sure you love the end result. A problem I see in a lot of homes is the lack of interest and texture in a space. Have you ever walked into a brand new build and thought, “This looks nice and new, but the design is quite plain”? For example, in a kitchen there may be an all new backsplash, appliances, cabinets, paint colors, countertops, etc., and it would still look rather dull and one dimensional. This is a common problem in a lot of homes. A homeowner will often play it safe and go with basic colors and finishes, and in the end they do not love the final result. But how do you make a home look unique? Let’s address that.
We are in the middle of a new bathroom remodel for a client, and the one thing this space will not lack is texture and interest. I think by the end of this project it will be quite special! The homeowner wanted to have white cabinets and tile. Beautiful, right? It’s simple and classic. But as beautiful as that is, how stark would the design be in the end? To create interest in the space, we decided to build a stunning linen cabinet that spanned the length of the wall. It was finished in a black matte stain to give high contrast and depth to the space. Still, this was not enough visual interest. So, how do we make this bathroom look unique as well as any other kitchen or bathroom we do? Let’s take a look at several ways we do this.
Tile:
Who doesn’t love beautiful, white subway tile? It’s clean and classic, but sometimes it can be one dimensional and kind of plain. We needed to have some more interest in this room. First off, we chose a textured tile and decided to create a herringbone pattern. This will go across an entire wall and add some amazing depth to this space. I cannot wait to see the final product!
Beams:
Ok we’ve talked about tile, but what’s another way we can add texture and interest in a space? A great answer…. add beams. Look at the photo below. Now imagine this space without them. It would be quite cold and bare, wouldn’t it? By using the charcoal gray wall of cabinets and the warm wooden beams above we totally transformed this space! It made this kitchen more visually interesting.
Now, maybe you don’t necessarily like the wooden beams, or maybe there is already a lot going on in your space. This was definitely the case in the kitchen below. We added a beautiful, gray tile in a herringbone pattern and painted the island a charcoal gray which created stunning texture and interest. But, we wanted more! We added beams to the ceiling. However, instead of staining them, we painted them white. This added a subtle hint of texture without taking away from the rest of the room.
Accent Walls:
Oh how we all love a beautiful accent wall! Like I mentioned earlier, adding a stained wood element (like beams) really creates great texture and warms up a space. In the kitchen above we see a great example of this, but instead, by using an accent wall. We added the natural wood to create warmth and texture to this pretty cool-toned kitchen.
Now, you might be thinking, “I really don’t like the natural wood wall.” That’s ok, for you might like more of a modern or contemporary design! We can still give you texture and interest in your space without using a stained wood wall. If you look in the example below, we added white shiplap to this space. We wanted this room to feel very bright and airy because the couple wanted a modern design. A modern design does not mean we will have to suffer with a lack of texture and interest. Using the shiplap and even using a smaller element like these wicker baskets, creates visual interest to this otherwise simple room.
We so often feel that to create a unique design in our home it has to be complicated and expensive, but it doesn’t have to be! It can be simple little things like adding tile with a beautiful design, wooden beams to warm up the room, or accent walls to create more texture. It’s important for you to love your home. This is where a lot of memories are made, and we want this setting to reflect who you are! So just remember, texture solves everything!
“Keep the end in mind!” Colossians 3:1
-Clearcut and Co.
Not all design-build firms are created equal!
There are two types of design-build companies when planning a high-end custom project; you know, the kind of kitchen or bathroom you would see in the magazines. The first is a building company that hires a design staff member or design subcontractor. The second is a designer who is also the builder! Both provide the “one stop shop” convenience. They both provide a design first followed by the build process, which is very important! But the question is, which one is better? Hi, my name is Richard Ryder, owner of Clearcut Construction and I am a designer who also builds. I would like to help answer this question with a couple of points.
The best part is in the trenches!
Recently, I contemplated with my wife the idea of just being a designer and letting someone else build my projects. Her bold response, “YOU COULD NOT HANDLE SOMEONE ELSE DOING YOUR WORK “. Of course, after 24 years she knows me; and she is right. As a builder, I know there is a long list of decisions, both easy and difficult, to be made that can affect the design vision of the project. As a designer, there is also a long list to consider. Some ideas you simply cannot put on paper.
Yes, remodeling can be tough. In spite of exhaustion and the temptation to let someone else do it, the onsite presence is a key to a great and special project! You see, when the design phase is finished and we start building (in the trenches), I still remain in design mode mentally. I am constantly looking here and there, manipulating shapes in my mind, drawing on walls, negotiating with myself and adjusting as needed. Sometimes a treasure is found after demo and turns into my best design element. I even think about this stuff lying in bed at night. I admit, I have even been known to get stressed about it. This is especially true when the vision is not living up to my expectations!
The essence of design-build
So, to add to the questions above…can a two-part company (designer first then builder) do this realistically?? Does the hired designer have that kind of control and dedication in the prospective of company profit? The heart of design-build is in the title! The point is, the designer is also in control of the final outcome of the project, not only the builder. I believe that is what people truly want from a labeled design-build company. It has been by experience that the designer seeing it through builds the customer’s trust and excitement. Pencil to paper can only go so far and there is a “not all about money” factor here… You see, I love it when a plan comes together! But I love it more when a plan develops beyond the initial blueprint. This can only happen on site in the “front lines” so to speak.
When describing me, you could say I am a designer first and then a builder. Every project I do I go into it thinking it is going to be my best yet. I get great joy when I am recognized for design above the building side. So, the essence is that the remodel is not just a job from a designer’s perspective, it is like a blank canvas to an artist!
“Keep the end in mind.” Colossians 3:1
Making Your Home Yours
“I don’t know. Whatever you think is best. You’re the professional.”
We, as your remodeling company hear this statement frequently from clients when working on kitchen and bathroom design. We understand that you may feel overwhelmed with the remodel process, but we are here to guide you in figuring out your personal style, navigate design dilemmas, and make sure you love your home. So, even though your statement is true (we are the professionals), ultimately it’s your home, your money to invest, and the place you will live and make memories. We want to hear your thoughts, your opinions, your dream, your vision, and come alongside you in this adventure.
Love the Space You’re In:
What do we mean when we say we want you to feel inspired in it? Well, when you walk into your home it should put a smile on your face. As you enter your living room you should feel like you can completely wind down for the day. When you come home from work and it’s time to start dinner, we don’t want you to dread going into your kitchen. You should feel excited to try out a new recipe and have the space, appliances, and easy access to the things you need to accomplish this task easily. We want you to wake up in the morning, walk into your bathroom for your shower, and feel like you have entered into a spa. It should be a relaxing experience. In saying this, we just want you to love the space you are in.
Discover What You Like:
We are all about the details want you to be involved to give you a completely finished project. How do you accomplish this? Well, dear reader, this is why we have social media like Pinterest and Houzz. (You can check out our accounts by clicking these links: Pinterest and Houzz). These sites are great resources. There are so many pictures of designs and pieces you can incorporate into your own home. Ask yourself what are the consistent features, colors, materials, etc. that you’re drawn to. These sites not only can help you figure out a design scheme, but also a direction in budget. I know we don’t always love to talk about the money side of things, but it is important! We need to know how much you are willing to spend and what that money needs to go towards. Do you absolutely LOVE that subway tile and feel like it’s a must-have in your kitchen? Ok then, you should probably think about including that in your price-point. Do you feel like you HAVE to have the big island for storage so you can add those adorable floating shelves? Then mention that to your contractor! It’s your home, so make it feel like you!
“Keep the end in mind.” Colossians 3:1
-Clearcut Construction
Most homeowners naturally think that they have to pick between the two. What if you could have both? When remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, people tend to overcompensate based on their current situation. If they feel their existing, perfectly functional kitchen, lacks style then they go primarily for looks . This sometimes leads a lack of day to day functionality in the new kitchen. On the other hand, homeowners with current non-functioning kitchens or poor layouts, overcompensate with functional features that are excessive. For example, having too many cabinets. Unfortunately, this leads to a lack of character and style. When remodeling your home, we want the space to function well for you, but also give you a peaceful, welcoming feel .
Style & Function Working Together:
This kitchen is a perfect example of functionality and style working together. This client wanted us to pay attention to fine practical details and also give the space a coastal feel. Everyone wants a beautiful home, but we also want it to be useful when lived in and enjoyed. These homeowners were no different. As a result, we went with stylish, custom cabinetry that were well designed to accommodate their day to day habits.
This client also requested lots of storage space. However, too many cabinets can make a space feel cramped and closed in thus losing the opportunity to achieve style and character. Therefore, we added the glass-faced built-in to break up the monotony of cabinet doors while still allowing for much needed storage in one convenient location. We were also able to add cabinets by the refrigerator highlighted by a natural wood wall. This added material gives organic warmth to a high contrast of white.
The island is the heart of the kitchen. It is the space the kids gather to do their homework or guests come to chat and share a cup of coffee. It is used as a prep space, storage, and extra seating, so a custom built island can be quite a necessity. The options are endless as far as customizing it to each home’s needs, so careful consideration when planning.
Choose Both:
Which one would you choose? To answer this question, examine your style and study your own habits. These habits are not likely to change and instead should be planned for. Then choose both style and function. Look for opportunities to customize and add style by creatively catering to your own habits. This takes intentional examination of the day to day pattern of your life. For example, how many receptacles do you use or could use currently? Do you keep things organized on open shelves? How much stuff do you have that needs additional storage? What frying pan do you use the most and is it convenient to grab? How do you feel when you reach high or very low? What areas in the house do you avoid such as dark rooms, hallways, inconvenient drawers and cabinets? Will you really use the bath tub? Does the shower need to hold 6 people? Do you need wall space for pictures or not? This list could go on and on…..and should. These are all things to consider before you start the first design draft.
To sum it up, watch your hands, watch your feet, and be aware of your emotions. They will tell you what you need to know to design your perfect, custom kitchen and bathroom.
Whenever I watch HGTV remodeling shows, my favorite part is the before and after, or what I like to call the big reveal! When done well, they show the many hours of planning, design, and the physical work that has been poured into a project. This is one my favorite before and afters. This young family wanted to transform the heart of their home into something that felt more like them. We were excited to help create a kitchen that was unique with several dramatic changes.
Open the Space
The flow in this kitchen was really choppy, the design was quite plain, and the whole room felt dark and closed off from the rest of the house. Clearly, this existing wall was no help. The family needed something with an open floor plan that felt light and airy. Knocking out the wall totally transformed the space to make the flow much smoother and more practical; while also bringing in more counter space. We added the island to not only create a focal point, but give the homeowners a place to gather while they entertain.
Increase the Light and Warmth
This is another one of my favorite angles of this renovation. Look how dark this space looks. It doesn’t look at all inviting, but redoing the cabinets and brightening up the paint color made a total difference. The herringbone tile and open shelving above the stove not only added a beautiful design element, but made this room a lot brighter. As important as it is to make a space feel light and bright, it’s just as important to add some warmth to a space. This creates an inviting atmosphere to not make it feel so cold and stark. If you look at the before picture you see how they had a gray and white marble countertop, fluorescent lighting, white backsplash, white cabinets, and gray walls. It just looks very bland and cold. There were no elements in this space to make it warm and inviting. By painting the island a darker color, adding the barstools that have a wooden seat, and painting the doors a darker color totally transformed the space. Just by adding a few warmer elements this kitchen took on a whole new look.
Thanks for reading along. Now you see why I love a good before and after image of the design process. It’s really gratifying to look back on a space that you poured your heart into.
“Keep the end in mind.” -Colossians 3:1
Clearcut Construction