Award-Winning Home Remodeling in Richmond for 25 Years - Part 1

As CCI turned 25 this year, we thought we'd take profile some of our award-winning work over the past quarter century. 

Some people say "You can never go home." Well, "go home" is exactly what the owners of this lovely 1950's Georgian did. The house had been the husband's boyhood home. He and his family bought it from a relative and began to invest in much needed renovations.

The kitchen was still in the 1950's, so that's where we started. The owners asked us to recommend a design that would make it more useful, enjoyable, and fashionable.

We sought to achieve four important goals:

• Improve the usability of the space,
• Upgrade and modernize the appearance and finishes,
• Work within a modest budget, and
• Stay mindful that these changes were to a family homestead with deep personal meaning and, therefore, more than just construction.

Before the renovation, you could reach the kitchen from the family room only through a formal dining room. We opened the space to improve the flow. The kitchen used to be a small, dark, dead-end space off the dining room. We broke through the end wall, and added a modest, but important, 140 square foot addition. Now kitchen traffic can pass into the family room or the dining room, creating a 360-degree flow.

Besides improving access, the owners report that this new layout makes the kitchen feel far larger than it measures.

This new traffic pattern also provided much needed natural light. A room once described as cave-like is now awash in sunlight from dawn until dusk, making it a warm and welcoming place.

The homeowners met with several contractors. All the other bids involved extending the home into the backyard, enlarging the footprint and encroaching on a lovely garden. We were the only contractor who recommended changes possible within the existing footprint. As well as bringing cost within budget, the chosen plan preserved yard space. The owners often remarked that they thought the plan was remarkably creative and sensible.

As our team worked on the kitchen, the owners' trust and comfort level grew. Finally, they felt that they could invest in several other small projects in the foyer, family room, and master bedroom. The other contractors' approaches would leave no budget for these other improvements.

The results thrilled the owners. The wife delights in her new kitchen and uses it to entertain with ease. The best compliment came from the husband who grew up in the house: he is sure the previous lady of the house, his mother, would have loved it.

You can read more about this project, view additional photos, and learn more about the multiple awards our work received on our website.

CCI Turns 25!

Cabinetry and Construction, Inc. turned 25 this year!

Over the years we have grown to a full-service, one-stop shopping, Class A licensed General Contractor with an award-winning portfolio of residential remodeling projects in the Richmond area, including baths, kitchens, additions, whole-house renovations, and specialty millwork.

We highlight a number of our award-winning projects on our website, and we profile a home renovation project that won numerous awards in this newsletter. 

I am proud that CCI has become the premier remodeling company for helping you create the home that best accommodates your family in Richmond. 

If you are considering a remodeling project, please read testimonials from our satisfied customers. Then give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free consultation on the project that interests you.

Is Your Home "Home Fit"?

AARP research consistently finds that persons 50 years and older want to stay in their homes for as long as possible. To help homeowners determine if their home is well-suited to this goal, they created the "HomeFit" Guide. 

The guide takes through each room of your home to give you a sense of how livable it will be as you age, and offers worksheets to help you create a plan to ensure your home can meet your needs for years to come. The improvements and solutions offered range from do-it-yourself fixes to solutions that require skilled expertise.

To use the guide, simply click here to be taken to the page where you can download or print it. Below you will find links to to the worksheets referenced in the guide.

• Worksheet 1:Is My Home "HomeFit"?
• Worksheet 2: My Room-by-Room HomeFit List
• Worksheet 3: My Room-by-Room Shopping List
• Worksheet 4: My Room-by-Room Do-It-Myself List
• Worksheet 5: My Room-by-Room Don't Do-It-Myself List
• Worksheet 6: My Contractor Interview Notes
• Worksheet 7: My Contractor Reference Check Notes
• Worksheet 8: My Home Maintenance Schedule 
• Worksheet 9: My Emergency Contacts

Designing the Perfect Boomer Bath

The top home modifications needed in order for residents to age in place are in the bathroom. These range from grab bars and no thresholds in the shower, to different toilet heights, to door and sink handles, and can be included in the design of your bath such that your personal spa is functional without feeling institutional.

The shower is one of the top places in a home where a homeowner risks injury. Here are some design trends that can help eliminate these risks:

• Removing the threshold into the shower.
• Adding an elegant nonslip surface for the flooring.
• Installing a grab bar. If you don't want to add the grab bar right away, you can slo include blocking in the wall tile for the future. 
• Building in a bench (which not only can provide seating to the non-ambulatory bather, but also can be used as a shelf for ladies to prop up their leg when shaving).
• Including a hand-held showerhead (which is also helpful for cleaning the shower).

For the toilet, you should consider:

• Investing in a comfort-height toilet, which is a couple of inches taller than standard models. 
• Installing a grab bar or include blocking for future grab bars.
• Ensuring the door is at least 32 inches wide to accommodate walking aids.

Finally, when designing your vanity, consider:

• Installing sink handles that are easier to grasp than knobs.
• Building a sink that allows for a wheel chair to slide underneath.
• Adding a mirror that tilts to accommodate persons who are seated.

Is Your Home Ready for Your Changing Family's Needs?

Last month the Richmond Times-Dispatch reported on the fastest-growing segment in the residential remodeling industry - aging in place. (You can read the the article here.) 

 

So what is "aging in place"? The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines it as "the ability to live in one's own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level."

 

As baby boomers (those born between 1946 and 1964) plan for retirement, many are also planning for how they can stay in their homes as they age. In fact, a recent survey conducted by the AARP found that 84% would like to stay in their current homes during retirement. 

 

At the same time, we are also seeing more and more Americans (60.6 million per the most recent U.S. Census Bureau survey) are becoming part of the "sandwich generation" with three or more generations living under one roof. Even the first family are members of the sandwich generation, as Michelle Obama's mother, Marian Robinson, has lived in the White House with her daughter's family since 2009.

 

These families are also looking at how their homes can better accommodate both young children and aging adults by finding solutions for all generations to live under one roof by creating additional living space through an addition, repurposing a garage or basement, or investing in "granny pods," micro-units with their own kitchen and bathrooms that are constructed separately from the main house. 

 

Regardless, many of the same features that help aging adults remain in their homes are also beneficial to young children. For example, handles on doors or sinks in place of knobs are equally helpful to seniors with arthritis and toddlers who are just learning fine motor skills.

 

Rob Wright is a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) and Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP). These certifications enable him to design accessible spaces for all people, including those who wish to age in place, growing and mutli-generational families, and individuals with special needs.

 

CCI is the premier remodeling company for helping you create the home that best accommodate your family in Richmond. Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free consultation on the project that interests you.

Rob Wright Named Master Certified Remodeler

Behind owner Rob Wright's name are the abbreviations MCR, GCP, and UDCP. You may have wondered what those things mean, and why you should care about them. 

Essentially, these letters stand for credentials Rob has earned from coursework through the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. NARI is the most respected association in the remodeling industry. Rob's goal in gaining and maintaining these certifications is to serve our clients better by seeking out new technologies and learning best practices.

MCR: Rob is a Master Certified Remodeler through NARI. A master certified remodeler not only must possess skill and knowledge in a broad range of technical aspects, business management, and ethical conduct, they also must be dedicated to the industry and involved in the community. Certified Remodelers must have attained the Certified Remodeler (CR) designation and maintained it for a minimum of ten years, as well as hold at least one additional NARI certification. In addition, they must adhere to NARI's Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.

GCP: Rob has trained to become a Green Certified Professional. While everyone is interested in protecting the environment by utilizing technologies that are good for the planet, most people don't have the luxury of being able to pay top dollar to do so. The purpose of the GCP training is to help incorporate green building principles into our projects without driving up the costs of construction. 

UDCP: Rob has trained to become a Universal Design Certified Professional. The goal of the UDCP training is to allow a remodeler to design accessible spaces for all people, not only those who wish to age-in-place, but also families with special needs and families that are forward thinking. For example, a lever handle in place of a typical door knob is more easily opened by someone whose hand is arthritic, but also by a small child whose dexterity isn't fully developed, or an adult with an armload of groceries. 

Top Remodeling Trends for Outdoor Living Spaces

Creating a fully functional outdoor living space is one of the top remodeling trends of 2016. More and more homeowners are seeing their outdoor living space as an extension of their home. Whether it is your backyard or your front porch, your outdoor living space can be a great place to spend time with family or entertain guests. Three of the top trends this spring are:

Creating an Outdoor Living Room

Imagine a room without walls. Often outdoor living rooms are covered spaces, all-weather furniture, sound systems, lighting, and even ceiling fans. They can be a perfect space for spending warm spring, summer, and fall evenings outside. Pictured here is a front porch restoration that allows the owners of this Fan home to enjoy sitting outdoors and connecting with neighbors in a space that fits with the architectural design of the house. 

Installing a Fireplace

Adding a firepit or fireplace to your outdoor living space allows you to enjoy the outdoors on chillier evenings.

Designing an Outdoor Kitchen

Creating an outdoor cooking space allows you to entertain guests or cook meals for your family while enjoying the outdoors. Ranging from simple designs with a built-in gas grills to elaborate set-ups with refrigerators, countertops, and bar seating, you can take pleasure from nice weather without leaving home. 

10 Steps You Should Take Before Starting a Remodeling Project

 

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) provides a top 10 list of steps homeowners should take before breaking ground on their next remodel.

#1) Research your project. Taking time to research projects on the Internet and  NARI.org will provide a good sense of what is involved such as price, scope of work, return on investment and new product/material options. Also, research property values in your neighborhood to make sure your project is in line with other homes in the area.

#2) Plan project around the long-term. How long do you plan to stay in your home? How might your family structure change over time? Life can change quickly -- these questions should be answered early on to ensure your project will fit your lifestyle long after it's complete.

#3) Set your budget. Deciding on a realistic budget and arranging finances to support your project are essential. This number needs to include everything -- the project, products, contingencies, etc. Don't be afraid to share this with your remodeler; professionals are respectful of a client's budget and will create a plan around it, not over it.

#4) Use advanced search for professionals. The online world makes it easy to gather information about strangers. Ask friends, family and neighbors for referrals and then spend time researching that person online. Professional remodelers take their reputation seriously and hold credentials beyond licensing, such as certifications, memberships in trade associations and additional training. Look for examples of press coverage or involvement in industry presentations or events. Check online reviews and social media to see how they interact with past clients and peers.  CCI has an A rating with Angie's List, and we've been awarded the Guildmaster Award by Guild Quality for customer service.

#5) Ask the right questions. Time and cost are important, but getting the right information requires the right questions. Ask your professional remodeler about his educational background, training, specialties or past issues with clients. Ask about how the remodeling process will work.

#6) Verify your remodeler.

Don't take their word for it. Check the information given to you such as references, license numbers, insurance information and certifications by calling providers to verify. Request a visit to an active client's jobsite. Make it known that you are checking on him-a true professional considers that as a positive sign to working with a homeowner.  Rob Wright is a Certified Remodeler, Universal Design Certified Progressional and a Green Certified Professional  with NARI and a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist and Certified Green Professional with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). In addition, Rob holds licenses for Master Gas Fitter, Master Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning, and Master Plumber with Virginia.

#7) Review contracts word-by-word. A remodeling contract protects you and your remodeler. Homeowners should review this carefully. Professional remodelers have done this before, and know what should go in a contract. Homeowners are not as familiar with remodeling and should ask about terms if they don't understand. Pay attention to details about change orders, payment, additional fees, timeline and responsibilities. If it's not in the contract, it doesn't exist.

#8) Your design guides the entire project. Think about what you dislike about your current space and the intended use of the new space. Use Websites such as Pinterest.com and Houzz.com to gather design ideas. Make sure you can articulate specifically what you like about that design when talking to your designer. Professionals don't recreate a photo -- they incorporate accessibility, functionality, ease of modification, style and value into your design.  You can find CCI on houzz.com here.

#9) Make your selections. Deciding on products and materials is a larger process than most imagine. With so many options to choose from, product selections are one of the primary reasons for project timelines to get extended. Base decisions on quality, function, price, style and availability. Include selections in the contract to lock down pricing and keep your budget intact.

#10) Create a communication plan. A common downfall in remodeling is lack of communication between homeowners and remodelers. Your remodeler should lay out a communication plan at the beginning of the project. If not, ask them to do so. This plan should clarify roles of everyone involved, communication methods, availability, and frequency of communication that is expected.

 

The first step to hiring a professional is through NARI, whose members are vetted and approved by industry peers to ensure they live up to the professional standards that NARI sets.  As a NARI member, I am proud of my affiliation and commitment to professionalism.

May is National Home Improvement Month

May is National Home Improvement Month which celebrates the traditions of home improvements that take place in the spring. 

Do you have a project you've been thinking about or do you need inspiration? Below I highlight requests I often hear from our prospective clients, as well as creative solutions to address them.

Bring your Kitchen into the 21st Century

A challenge in many older houses in the Richmond area is renovating kitchens in a manner that retains the character of the home while incorporating the latest innovations. At CCI, we are skilled at keeping historic charm while adding appliances and fixtures that provide performance and efficiency, and have won awards for our designs by doing so. You can read more about one such project here.

Turn your Master Bathroom into a Spa-like Suite

Do you wish you had a retreat for relaxation in your master bedroom? Do you dream of a steam shower or a heated bathroom floor? Homeowners often CCI in order to make these a reality. Whether you envision a bath with modern features and fixtures, or one that is more traditional and luxurious, we can help you design the bathroom you've always wanted. 

Add a Master or Mother-in-law Suite with an Addition

Your current space constraints don't necessarily need to be a limiting feature when you are considering home improvements. CCI has added space to Richmond area houses by adding second-story additions, popping-out a wall, and even adding new structures to the property. We added a comprehensive master suite to a small 1927 arts and crafts bungalow style home and nearly doubled the home's square footage. This project is highlighted here. 

Convert your Basement into a Living Area

What do you wish you had space for in your home? Your basement can be transformed into almost anything you can dream of -- a casual den for relaxing and entertaining, a home theatre or game room, a new bedroom suite. CCI will work with you to help you realize your dream, as we did with a client who wanted to convert their Monument Avenue basement into a modern, urban space with a "loft feel" to offset the formal, Georgian character of the rest of the house. You can read more about this multiple award-winning project here. 

Add or upgrade your Outdoor Living Room  

Now that we are finally getting warmer temperatures, do you have an exterior space where you can enjoy the outdoors with friends and family? If not, now is the time to build your dream deck, create the outdoor kitchen you've always wanted, restore your front porch, or add a wrap-around or screened-in porch. CCI can help you design the space and build a top quality outdoor living room that you can enjoy this spring, summer and fall.

Regardless of the home improvement project that inspires you, we know you are making a big investment, personally and financially, when you decide to renovate. At CCI, we strive not only to produce high quality work, but also to build satisfying long-term relationships with our clients. Please browse our website and get to know us a little better. Then get in touch with us to help us learn more about you and your ideas for your home renovation.

It's Easy to Be Green

Green Building is not just a catch phrase for us at Cabinetry & Construction. We have always believed that remodeling is inherently greener than building a new house. Moreover, the close-in Richmond neighborhoods in which we work are the opposite of sprawl.

And by incorporating the latest green building products and ecologically responsible construction practices, we are in the unique position of truly ushering the modern era into the historic beauty of the homes in the Richmond area.

Green products include those that may consume less energy during use, those that produce less waste or use recycled products in their manufacture, or those that contribute to a healthier living environment.

Certainly, some options for ecologically responsible construction are more expensive than others, but even small investments can have a great impact on the performance of your home, improve its efficiency, and reduce the lifetime operating cost of your home.

In the spirit of "going green," we'd like to share some information about our environmentally aware repertoire.

Read below for more information on the green innovations we use not only to enhance the aesthetics of your home renovation project, but also to improve its performance.

We welcome your questions and concerns about our green building products and ecologically responsible construction practices. We can tell how they will help improve your home's performance and how they work with historic renovations.

Let us help you help the environment and your pocket book. Give us a call or send us an email today about how you can "go green" by making your home more environmentally efficient.

***

Operating and maintaining a home correctly is the only way to make sure it "lives green," and Cabinetry & Construction can explain the hows and whys of green building and help you decide the aspects that are appropriate for your project -- from helping you choose the right products to advising you on how to ensure everything works the way it is designed. 

Some options for green building products that we like to provide our clients include:

• Energy star rated appliances
• Energy star windows
• WaterSense plumbing fixtures
• Richlite counters
• Concrete countertops utilizing recycled content
• James Hardie siding products
• Whole house ventilation
• Rinnai tankless water heaters
• Slant Fin high efficiency boilers
• NuTone ecoLogic high efficiency HVAC systems
• Cabinetry made with FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified wood
• Upgraded insulation packages
• Marmoleum flooring
• Recycled, natural floor products
• Paperless drywall
• Solar heating
• Geothermal heat pumps
• Low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints
• Radiant heated floors

You can learn more about these products and our green practices on our website.

Certified Green

  

At CCI, we can help you help the environment and your pocket book.

Rob is certified as a  Certified Green Professional (CGP) through the National Association of Home Builders. This certification identifies builders and remodelers who are committed to making your home green and who are trained to incorporate energy, water and resource efficiency, improved indoor environmental quality and sustainable and locally sourced products into their projects. 

While everyone is interested in protecting the environment by utilizing technologies that are good for the planet, most people don't have the luxury of being able to pay top dollar to do so. The purpose of the CGP training is to help incorporate green building principles into our projects without driving up the costs of construction. CGPs understand that combining good, cost-effective building science with the right products and materials can help create a home that's healthier and more efficient-while being kind to the environment.

Rob has also trained to become a Green Certified Professional through the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). This certification recognizes and identifies remodelers who apply green or sustainable principles to their remodeling projects.  These principles include indoor air quality, resource conservation, and renewable energy. 

Rob Wright is certified as a Lead-Safe contractor, as required by the US Environmental Protection Agency, for following appropriate practices to prevent lead contamination while performing renovation on structures built before 1978.

Give us a call or send us an email today about how you can "go green" by making your home more environmentally efficient.

Pet-Friendly Spaces

Pet ownership is at an all time high. CCI is known to be pet-friendly, but did you know that we will work with you to include pet-friendly spaces in our project design? Pictured above is the master suite we added to a home in Richmond. The owner's prized Weimaraner dog, Woody, preferred to sleep in his owner's bedroom. We cleverly annexed some space under the eaves to create a niche for the dog's crate, which keeps the dog near his owner but the crate away from under foot and immediate sight. Here are some pet-friendly design ideas that go beyond simply adding a pet door and durable flooring: 

Built-in sleeping areas can be built into any room of the house, even under the eaves or the stairs, but in all cases they create a comfortable sleeping space for your pet that fits into the overall aesthetic of your home while being out from underfoot.

Disguised litter boxes can be located in an out-of-the way spot like space behind a closet or in the garage, with access through a secret cat door.

Built-in feeding stations can be a built-in cabinet or shelf that keeps food and water bowls in a designated spot and out from underfoot. 

Dog bathing stations can be a low profile sink or a tiled shower with a handheld showerhead in a laundry room or garage.

Top Remodeling Trends for Outdoor Living Spaces

Creating a fully functional outdoor living space is one of the top remodeling trends of 2015. More and more homeowners are seeing their outdoor living space as an extension of their home. Whether it is your backyard or your front porch, your outdoor living space can be a great place to spend time with family or entertain guests. Three of the top trends this spring are: Creating an Outdoor Living Room Imagine a room without walls. Often outdoor living rooms are covered spaces, all-weather furniture, sound systems, lighting, and even ceiling fans. They can be a perfect space for spending warm spring, summer, and fall evenings outside. Installing a Fireplace Adding a firepit or fireplace to your outdoor living space allows you to enjoy the outdoors on chillier evenings. Designing an Outdoor Kitchen Creating an outdoor cooking space allows you to entertain guests or cook meals for your family while enjoying the outdoors. Ranging from simple designs with a built-in gas grills to elaborate set-ups with refrigerators, countertops, and bar seating, you can take pleasure from nice weather without leaving home.

Spring Has Arrived in Richmond!

Spring has finally arrived in Richmond!

As the days get longer and the temperatures get warmer, it's time to assess any winter damage to your home and make plans for spring home improvement projects - both cosmetic and structural.

Here are 7 home improvement projects that are perfect for a spring home makeover and yield a big return on investment by adding to your house's resale value.

1) Add or upgrade your Outdoor Living Room  

Now that we are finally getting warmer temperatures, do you have an exterior space where you can enjoy the outdoors with friends and family? If not, now is the time to build your dream deck or the outdoor kitchen you've always wanted, restore your front porch, or add a wrap-around or screened-in porch. CCI can help you design the space and build a top quality outdoor living room that you can enjoy this spring, summer and fall.

If you already have a great outdoor living space, check for any damage that needs to be repaired with your patio, deck or porch. Now is also the time to clean and restain your deck.

2) Upgrade or maintain your HVAC System  

Before it gets too hot, it's a good idea to make sure your AC unit is working properly. On a warm April day, switch the AC on for a couple minutes. Check all vents to ensure that each one is working properly. If your AC seems weak or is not working correctly, give CCI a call. We offer simple checks and tune-ups, which can ensure that there are no problems.

If your HVAC system is old, you might want to consider investing in an energy-efficient heating and cooling system. This is a great way to live green and add value to your home. Many modern air conditioners use 30 to 50 percent less energy to produce the same amount of cool air as air conditioners from the 1970s, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. CCI is a licensed HVAC contractor, and we can meet with you to discuss options for upgrading your HVAC system.

Now is also the time to change your filters; consider a whole house high efficiency filter system.

3) Check your windows for drafts or damage  

A drafty window or two in the middle of summer can raise your cooling energy consumption and bill. One option is to get new windows installed, and while this means more initial costs, it will save you money in the long run. CCI can meet with you to discuss your needs when it comes to replacing windows.

If replacing windows isn't in your budget right now, you can try to fix the old ones. You can use sealants, both permanent and temporary, to get rid of any draughts around your windows.

Take a walk around your house and visually inspect all of your windows. While you're at it, take a look at the window sills and trim for any signs of water damage or deterioration. Painting or replacing damaged window trim is another home improvement project that yields big results.

4) Install an attic fan and/or insulate your loft  

Summer heat from your home will rise and may result in your upper floors being substantially warmer than your first floor. Ways to keep your upper floors cooler include installing an attic fan and ensuring that your loft is insulated adequately. If your attic hasn't been insulated in a while or your home wasn't quite as warm this winter as you would have liked it to be, check the thickness of your insulation and replace or top it up if you need to. Adding an extra layer of fiberglass insulation is another easy home improvement project and can help make cooling your home this summer much easier.

5) Repair or replace your roof  

Your roof is your home's number one defense against the elements. Even a small issue can lead to major damage indoors if moisture is allowed to enter your attic and walls through cracks and creases. Take a look at your roof from the ground to see if any shingles have been blown out of place or if there is curling, peeling and even disintegration of the shingles.

6) Clear and repair gutters and downspouts  

With spring comes rainy weather, so now is the time to make sure that your gutters don't overflow and your drainpipes are clear of debris. The fall will have seen leaves and tree debris fall into your gutters, and moss often grows in gutters and downpipes during winter. Make sure that any moss is removed as young seedlings will grow in moss in spring. Also, if your gutters have been damaged by storms over the winter, it's important to get them fixed before spring showers and summer storms roll around since heavy rainfall can pose a problem for your home come spring if the water is not being properly routed by your gutter system. Now is also the time to consider installing gutter guards to keep fall leaves from clogging your gutters.

7) Update your siding  

Your house's siding can get damaged from winter weather, so be sure to inspect it for damage this spring. Replacing a warped or loose piece of siding is a home improvement project that can be completed by a do-it-yourselfer. However, if your siding is older, you might also consider updating your siding with a more energy-efficient and easy to maintain product.  CCI offers free consultation on all home siding projects.

Here at CCI we can help you ensure that your home is ready for spring and summer. Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free consultation on the project that interests you.

Top Remodeling Trends of 2015

According to an Angie's List survey of more than 1,000 highly rated remodeling professionals, the bathroom is poised to be the most popular remodeling project. Kitchens remain a focus, too.

Bathroom. A continuing trend from 2014, more homeowners are electing to do without a tub to make room for a larger, more luxurious shower with rain head faucets and handheld sprayers. Homeowners used to worry that their home's resale value suffered if the bathroom didn't have a bathtub, but as more homeowners plan to stay in their homes longer and age in place they are opting instead for comfort and accessibility. Those who still want a tub are choosing freestanding bathtubs, and are continuing to select the contemporary basin style or antique clawfoot tubs instead of whirlpools or fiberglass.

In terms of bathroom tile, the popular newcomer is 12-inch by 24-inch tiles, which are being staggered on floors and shower walls. Tile also caters to the growing interest in radiant floor heating among homeowners.

Kitchen. Custom cabinets are gaining in popularity, especially in the kitchen, where cabinets are used daily. When it comes to appliances, stainless continues to be the go-to choice, except when homeowners choose custom-made fronts to match their kitchen cabinets. As for countertops, homeowners are exploring different surfaces, such as quartz, but granite remains the most popular choice.

Color. Gray is the new beige. Throughout the home, and especially in kitchens and bathrooms, gray has become the modern standard for walls, cabinets and tile.

Storage. While homeowners still want to open up their living areas by removing walls, they also want sufficient storage to eliminate clutter.  And when it comes to closets, homeowners want bigger, better-organized spaces to store their clothing and accessories. 

Do you love your home?

We celebrated those we love on Valentine's Day. But now, ask yourself this:

Do you love your home? 

If the answer is no, Cabinetry & Construction, Inc. can help you change that.

Cabinetry & Construction is the premier remodeling company for the distinct needs of home renovation projects in Richmond. Our complete, design and build contracting services focus on bathroom and kitchen remodeling; additions and whole house renovations; and historic restoration projects. 

We use luxury materials and choose fixtures well suited to preserve the integrity of the older homes that dominate our area. We can find period-appropriate resources and the special touches that make every job unique. 

One client recently wrote:

Cabinetry & Construction performed a wonderful remodeling project for our 110 year old Fan house. They did a complete remodel of our kitchen and two bathrooms. From demolition to the final coat of paint, Rob and his crew put quality into everything they did. They are all very nice to work with. Rob gives excellent design advice and helped us work through all the challenges that we faced. His many years of remodeling old houses is invaluable and he made suggestions for improvements that we had not even thought of, adding some very nice features which we now enjoy daily. I highly recommend CCI.

It is gratifying to know that our clients value our artisanry and expertise.

With Cabinetry & Construction, you will receive superior and seamless personal attention. Home remodeling is an intimate and invasive process. We often have to demolish before we can rebuild. Craftspeople will be in your house for a while. You'll want to know you're working with an expert. 

As a design build contractor, I will meet with you personally to provide a proposal and help you bring your vision to life. Because we design and build, you can rest easy, knowing the project plans and budget will be consistent with the result. I will be your single point of contact to keep you informed as your renovation moves along.

You'll also want to note that not only can we restore older homes to their historic prime, we can also incorporate the latest innovations in green technology. Your home can be rich in history, with 21st century efficiency and performance.

Restoring an older home, adding on to a new one, remodeling a bathroom or kitchen, or any major construction job in your home is an enormous undertaking. You need to know that you are in fully capable hands and you need to feel confident in the person leading the construction, as well as in the company performing the work. 

Give us a call and schedule a meeting. We will help you feel at ease with the project by truly understanding your goals and what you want and then explaining what can be done. Then your renovation will be executed and completed, on time and within your budget.

This is your home. We know you are making a big investment, personally and financially, when you decide to renovate. We strive not only to produce high quality work, but also to build satisfying long-term relationships with our clients. 

Please browse our website and get to know us a little better-read our client testimonials, click through our Gallery to see the work we have completed and to find inspiration for your next remodeling project, and learn more about our affiliations and products we recommend. Then get in touch with us to help us learn more about you and your ideas for your home renovation.

Dos and Don'ts of Kitchen Remodeling

Are you considering a kitchen remodel? It can be a great way to improve the functionality of your home and increase its resale value. But before you begin, review the following dos and don'ts to avoid unnecessary hassles.

Do your research.

Create a Houzz or Pinterest account with images of your dream kitchen. Think about layout, appliances, functionality, finishes, and colors. Check out CCI's Houzz profile for photos of some of our kitchen projects.

Do consider the purpose of the space.

Does your kitchen serve as your family's gathering space? Do you enjoy hosting elaborate dinner parties? Do you need the top-of-the-line appliances to match your culinary expertise? How you answer each of these questions will help you determine the best layout to maximize your kitchen's functionality.

Don't rush through the planning and design phase.

Take time to visualize the layout, functionality and design of your new kitchen. Picture yourself going through your daily routine to help determine the best location for your sink, appliances, islands, and electrical outlets, as well as how you can best use every square inch available to you.

Do hire a licensed remodeler who is a member of NARI.

Outside of buying your home, remodeling it is one of the biggest investments you may make. You want assurance that the remodeling contractor you choose is a full-time, dedicated remodeling professional who follows a strict code of ethics.

Taking time up front to think about what you want from your dream kitchen and choosing a professional contractor will save you time when you are ready to move forward with making your dream a reality.

Top Home Remodeling and Interior Design Trends of 2014

Angie's List recently published the results of its survey with remodelers and interior designers about the trends they are seeing in 2014. They found that homeowners are most interested in making strategic improvements to boost functionality, increase efficiency and take advantage of existing space. Opening up the kitchen. Removing a wall between the kitchen and an adjoining room remains one of the hottest trends in home remodeling. The project appeals to homeowners because it instantly creates more space and dramatically changes the look and feel of the home. Installing hardwood flooring in the kitchen. Although hardwood usually costs more than other flooring options, it offers durability and a cozy, timeless look that never goes out of style. Customizing the home. Homeowners are making targeted improvements to ensure the home is a good fit for their lifestyle and family size by turning unused rooms into offices, dens, hobby rooms and children's play rooms. Separating the shower and tub. The days when the shower-tub combo reigned supreme are long gone. Home remodelers say the latest trend is to ditch the tub altogether, or to keep it separate from the shower. Combining old and new styles. A hot design trend in 2014 involves juxtaposing old and new concepts. In today's trendy home, a stainless steel refrigerator might sit next to a farmhouse sink or an antique chandelier might illuminate an IKEA bookcase. Remodelers also report an increased demand for recycled building materials, which they say can enhance old-meets-new design. Going greener. Green home improvements have been trendy for years, but remodelers and designers say homeowners continue to strive to improve the efficiency of their homes - from installing home automation systems that prevent energy waste to replacing outdated light bulbs and shower heads.

Remodeling Your Home? Make It More Energy Efficient!

Remodeling is a great way to make your home more comfortable and attractive. It also provides an opportunity to improve energy efficiency, helping to reduce energy costs and protect the environment. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started.

Kitchen. Save energy in the kitchen by installing ENERGY STAR qualified appliances, such as refrigerators and dishwashers. Consider high-efficiency, light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures and lamps for under-cabinet lighting. LEDs not only use less energy than conventional lamps; they last much longer and are more durable.

Bathrooms. Conserve water and reduce water heating costs by adding low-flow showerheads and aerated faucets. While you are at it, seal air leaks and install the appropriate insulation in the walls behind tubs and showers. Finally, control moisture and save energy by installing ENERGY STAR qualified ventilation fans. 

Room additions. Use advanced framing techniques to lower costs and improve energy efficiency, and to reduce the amount of materials needed and minimize waste. Advanced framing replaces lumber with insulation material, increasing the overall insulation value of entire walls. Install ENERGY STAR qualified windows, doors, and skylights, and make sure outside walls are insulated to recommended levels to maximize energy efficiency.

Basement. Finishing your basement not only adds living space for your family, it is an opportunity to reduce energy costs as well. Add insulation to basement walls and crawl spaces based on the levels recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy. Seal air leaks around all plumbing and wiring holes on outside walls and in the crawlspace. Replace older, single-pane windows with glass block or ENERGY STAR certified high-performance windows.

For more energy-saving ideas and remodeling tips, see Home Design & Remodeling from the U.S. Department of Energy.

This article previously appeared in the Richmond DPU The Gas Advantage newsletter, and is used with permission.

Treat Yourself to Your Dream Home

Have you thought about what it would be like to treat yourself to your dream home?

Whether you are thinking of a bringing your kitchen into the 21^st century, finishing your basement or attic, or giving a face-lift to a powder room, Cabinetry & Construction can help you make your dream a reality.

Our complete, design and build contracting services focus on bathroom and kitchen remodeling; additions and whole house renovations; and historic restoration projects. We use luxury materials and choose fixtures well suited to preserve the integrity of the older homes that dominate our area. We can find period-appropriate resources and the special touches that make every job unique. You'll also want to note that not only can we restore older homes to their historic prime, we can also incorporate the latest innovations in green technology. Your home can be rich in history, with 21st century efficiency and performance.

With Cabinetry & Construction, you will also receive superior and seamless personal attention. As a design build contractor, I will meet with you personally to provide a proposal and help you bring your vision to life. Because we design and build, you can rest easy, knowing the project plans and budget will be consistent with the result.

This is your home. We know you are making a big investment, personally and financially, when you decide to renovate. We strive not only to produce high quality work, but also to build satisfying long-term relationships with our clients. 

Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free estimate on the project that interests you.