Kitchens still king for home improvements – Tallahassee.com

Mark Worley, Guest columnist 7:48 p.m. ET March 3, 2017

Spacious additions, self-indulgent/aging-in-place master suites, entertaining and master cooking kitchens are on the upswing in Tallahassee.

I see more and more people calling and telling me they want to stay in their home for the long run and are willing to invest in amenities that truly make it their space.

Our team has noticed consistent trends emerging when it comes to home renovations for 2017. This also includes a movement toward selecting man-made materials and kitchen remodels.

Kitchen remodels remain king in the home, and remodeling them continues to be the most in-demand home update as people look for timeless design and low-maintenance options.

Painted cabinets continue to dominate, but wood grains are gaining ground, especially in more modern designs. It used to be when I said painted cabinets people would immediately think white cabinets but now you have a dozen color options available that are considered standard from most manufacturers.

As for the style, craftsman/shaker seems to be in most demand on the jobs we have completed over the last five years. People like the clean lines; also the ease of cleaning is another benefit.

I see clients selecting more and more quartz countertops these days, as that they want a product that does not require maintenance while taking more abuse than natural stone. Corian seems to be a thing of the past as that it has creative limitations and durability issues.

Man-made means low maintenance thanks to new technologies, it can sometimes be hard to tell the difference between natural and man-made materials. Currently, there are tile options that look like hardwood flooring as well as engineered stones closely resembling marble. These man-made options require much less maintenance than a living finish and are also more durable, making them less likely to stain or chip.

Whats up with subway tile? I see it on almost every job. They are classic and timeless. Subway tiles never go out of style and I see so many options now, as related to texture and color that compliment the counters.

Youre definitely always safe with a subway tile backsplash. Like white cabinets, they are traditional and a long running favorite.

The kitchen is the hub, as we all know. But getting creative and making yours inviting is not as difficult as you might think. Pair painted cabinets with creative textures along with professional appliances and you will be surprised at the wow factor, as it becomes a magnet for entertainment and just hanging out with family and friends during daily use.

Home additions ideal for families who want to remain in their current home but could benefit from some extra square footage. There are plenty of options when it comes to expanding, whether building up, over or out. If you need more square footage and love your neighborhood but dont want to move, bump out your kitchen for an island or add a bedroom, bathroom, or master suite.

I am finding more and more people who are staying in their homes for the long haul and willing to invest with extensive renovations while making the home more luxurious as well as comfortable and being prepared for the later years by incorporating aging-in-place design.

Master suites are always in demand creating a private refuge for relaxation and rest has led to a renewed emphasis on the master suite. A combination of the master bedroom, master bathroom, and master closet; these spaces can recreate the feeling of a high-end retreat.

I am currently designing two master suite additions where the existing master suite is being converted into an in-law space. The owners will get a completely new space while offering guests their own private retreat, complete with coffee bar and wide screen TV.

What are you ideas for 2017?

Write and let me know, or for any ideas for future articles contact me through my website http://www.worleyconst.com

Mark Worley is the only Graduate Master Builder in Tallahassee and holds a Certified Aging-in-Place and Green Building Professional designation by the National Association of Home Builders. You can reach him through his website at http://www.worleyconst.com or at 850-668-3438 for help with your construction problems.

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Kitchens still king for home improvements - Tallahassee.com