Today’s Hottest Kitchen Appliances and Gadgets

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design
With technology constantly changing and kitchen design trends evolving it can be tough keeping up with the plethora of appliances and gadgets on the market today. Customizing your kitchen to meet your family’s needs is the primary focus when renovating or remodeling the busiest space in your home – so it only makes sense to purchase those appliances that speak to your specific needs and make sense for your hectic life. According to the NKBA, you could typically expect to spend approximately 15% of your kitchen budget on the essential appliances and in many cases more.  It’s not unheard of to spend 15 – 20K + on appliances and fittings for your new kitchen. To give you an idea, here are just a few added bells and whistles we’ll be introducing into the kitchen of the Brentwood Project. The Warming Drawer. With today’s hectic and very staggered schedules it can be extremely tricky to have everyone at the dinner table at the same time.  Mrs. R enjoys cooking for her family and entertaining their friends – and many times will have her husband’s dinner drying out in the oven.  The moisture control settings of a warming drawer will keep Mr. R’s food succulent during the week and the guests’ hors D’Oeuvres fresh tasting on the weekends.  This is an ideal appliance to incorporate into their new kitchen. Dishwasher Drawers. Mrs. R loves the concept of the dual drawer dishwasher for several reasons.  They occupy the same amount of space as traditional dishwashers – yet these two independent drawers provide both versatility and flexibility when washing smaller loads and separating the pots from the china.  On weekends or nights when it’s dinner for the kids only she can load up the top drawer and away she goes. The Beverage Center. We have been discussing whether to include this appliance into the plans for months.  Since they love to entertain other families, this under-counter refrigerator is perfect for kids to help themselves to healthy snacks and drinks.  It’s all about easy access and providing independence for the kids.  The Pot Filler. Installed directly over the cook-top, this faucet is not only a time saver, but it makes it much easier to fill large pots of water right there – by the burner, rather than leaving a trail of water from the sink to the stove.  This pot filler isn’t for every kitchen or cook, yet it fits in perfectly with Mrs. R’s lifestyle and menu plan. A Wine Refrigerator. By now you can tell that my clients love to entertain.  In this project however, we are keeping the wine fridge out of the kitchen and incorporating it into a new dining room bar area.  Locating this wine cooler away from the kitchen creates more usable space within the kitchen itself. These are just a few of the hottest new appliances we’re introducing into this home renovation project. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Top 5 Kitchen Remodeling Questions

Posted on Categories Remodeling
By now we are all well aware that a kitchen remodel is not only one of the most popular home improvement projects – it’s also a great way to invest in your home.   To give you an idea of how important kitchens are to the value of a home – here in the US, the kitchen remodeling industry is a $15 billion dollar/year business.  And even in today’s market you could expect to yield a return on investment of 75-100%. So whether I’m designing a major kitchen renovation or a moderate upgrade for my clients our initial conversation and the questions that follow are often the same.
  1. Q:  Where do we start? – What comes first?
    2. A: Educate yourself and focus on the styles of kitchens and interiors that speak to you. Grab some kitchen design magazines and tear out the pages that inspire you in some way.  Start an inspiration file and share it with your designer during your initial meetings.  It’s also a great idea to begin researching appliances at the same time. The options available are endless and you definitely need time to do some research in that arena.
  2. Q:  How much should I expect to spend on my kitchen?
    3. A: Obviously the cost of a new kitchen is dependent on many factors.  The scope, size and complexity of each project varies – but typically you should expect to spend anywhere from 10 – 25% of your home’s current value.  For example: If your home is valued at $500,000 (and you plan on living there for another 5+ years) then budgeting 75-100K would be considered a reasonable investment.
  3. Q:  What makes a kitchen more or less costly?
    4. A: Your selection of cabinetry, appliances, countertops, flooring, as well as the electrical and plumbing will determine the cost of your kitchen remodel.  Cabinetry alone accounts for close to 50% of the total cost of the project – eating up half of your budget before you even blink.  Stock, Semi-custom and custom cabinetry each have different price points, so making that selection will be based on your home’s value and your budget.
  4. Q:  How do I ensure my kitchen won’t become dated?
    5. A: Investing in the services of a professional designer will definitely help guide you – by planning the space, designing the details and selecting materials and finishes that best suit the architecture of your home and your family’s personality.  Selecting timeless door styles and specifying quality products will extend the life of your dream kitchen.  Just realize however, that all high traffic and well-used kitchens will eventually wear 10-15 years down the road.
  5. Q: How long does a kitchen remodel typically take?
    6. A: Depending on the overall scope of the kitchen remodel the time commitment will vary.   It could take anywhere from 4-6 weeks for a light and simple facelift or upgrade – or 4-6+ months for a major kitchen renovation where major construction is involved.  With large kitchen remodeling projects, there are a series of stages to progress through.  From the planning and development phase, through the bidding process – it could take weeks or months before your contractor even picks up a hammer.
Just remember that a quality kitchen remodel will give you and your family years of enjoyment and increase the overall value of your home. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

A Dressing Room Closet Built For Two

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design2 Comments on A Dressing Room Closet Built For Two
Planning the perfect closet is never an easy task particularly when you have to share with your spouse.  Often one partner has more “inventory” shall we say than the other and rarely are they willing to give up an inch of linear space. In one of my projects the layout of the master bedroom – simply said just doesn’t make sense.  Currently the original dark, dingy and window-less walk-in closest is located on an exterior wall, which faces the beautiful lush back yard. The single windowed master bath looks directly onto the neighbor’s house.  From a planning perspective it only makes sense to flip the master bath/closet layout in order to maximize the lovely view to the lush yard from a new master bath – and plan for the new closet/dressing room where the old bath was located. Gutting and shifting the walls to create a bright and spacious master bath and his-and-her closet and dressing area will take this master suite from the ordinary to the extraordinary.  It’s about creating a perfect blend of practicality and luxury in the master bedroom suite. Keep these ideas in mind when planning the perfect closet for two:
  • Don’t feel you need to use up every inch of wall space by sacrificing natural light.  Adding windows or skylights will display your wardrobe clearly.
  • Strategically position full-length mirrors to reflect some of that natural light – and to catch a good glimpse of yourself.
  • Keep as much inventory as possible in plain sight.  Make sure its well organized, color coded and easily accessible.
  • Separate the his from hers – and provide enough space to meander through the shelves and racks.
  • If space allows provide an island for plenty of extra storage.  It’s also a terrific surface area for changing out your handbags and organizing accessories.
  • Provide a make-up vanity area preferably near a window for natural lighting.
  • Don’t forget good general lighting coupled with recessed lighting to highlight your hanging wardrobe.  Using dimmers will add that extra touch of ambiance as well.
Whether you’re planning a closet/dressing room that takes your breath away or a highly practical well-organized closet for two – use these principles to help guide you through the planning process.

Valuable Online Resource For Your Home Renovation Projects

Posted on Categories Architectural Planning
For those of you out there who are contemplating an upcoming home renovation project, or arecurrently in the midst of one – there are some great websites out there full of detailed information for all types of remodels and ones that provide interactive forums and discussion boards. One I’ve been most intrigued by is Buildipedia.  It provides a combination of technical information, editorial content and a full social media experience, catering to Architecture, Engineering and Construction professionals, homeowners and DIYers. Buildipedia is fabulous resource for connecting and sharing information with other like-minded homeowners.  As a member you can share links, ask questions, post images of your projects and connect with the pros. Feature articles that cover specialized topics can be viewed through any one of the five channel options.
  • At Home – for Homeowners and DIYers.
  • Go Green – for Sustainable Design
  • In Studio – for Architect, Designers and Planners
  • On Site – for Contractors, Project Managers and Construction Pros
  • Operations – for Engineers and Managers.
Click here and take a look at yesterday’s article on Kitchen and design trends.  It’s a wonderful piece full of valuable information that you could implement into your plans – today! http://www.buildipedia.com/at-home/item/1313-kitchen-design-trends-and-ideas

Interior Design Tips – Downsizing Inside and Out

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design
According to the National Association of Home Builders, single-family homes are continuing to get smaller and all indicators show this trend is likely to continue.  So it only makes sense that this trend apply to the interior of your home as well. When it comes to conceptualizing your home design and decorating projects, downsizing and minimizing creates a more zen-like atmosphere. Rather than fill a space full of furniture, artwork, accessories and objects at every turn, consider downsizing for a more sophisticated and elegant look.  The more upscale homes are often the ones that incorporate elegant pieces, keep clutter to a minimum and exude light and airy interiors – where less is more. Before you begin your home design project, take stock and inventory of what you have.  It will help you identify which pieces will stay and which will go!  Don’t be a hoarder – be willing to let go! Here are some design tips when streamlining your home.
  • A room with high ceilings does not mean that it requires over-sized furniture and elaborate draperies on the windows. To the contrary, the openness of the ceiling can be a beckoning call to minimize other distractions.
  • Rather than focusing on heavy, bulky furniture, think about incorporating smaller scaled furniture that are well proportioned.
  • When purchasing new pieces don’t compromise on comfort! Purchase the best you can afford.
  • Don’t compromise on function.
The fun thing about down scaling is that it allows you to upscale on the patterns used in a room. For example, the trend now is to introduce larger geometric prints on window treatments or even wall coverings.  These punches of pattern can create a dramatic effect while complimenting the elegance of moderately sized furnishings.  For some added elegance and drama, consider using black and white photographs and prints as artwork. Another important tip when it comes to decorating a small space is to introduce reflective metals and surfaces.  They can include silver, chrome, gold, mirrors, crystal, and other types of metals. There is still a heavy focus on mirrored chests and dressers today and these pieces definitely add sophistication and elegance to any space. Mirrored wall tiles will have a dramatic effect when reflecting killer views and natural light.  And don’t be afraid to install a beautiful glass and crystal chandeliers in the more unconventional spaces like bathrooms and bedrooms for that added glamour. Remember that when it comes to home design and decorating projects, less is more and will make your room feel more spacious.

Designing A Family-Friendly Home

Posted on Categories Architectural Planning
I’ve been in the throws of re-designing a 2800 square foot home to accommodate all the needs of a growing family of four.  The main criteria for this new and improved home, is to ensure it is highly functional, extremely comfortable and impeccably styled.  In other words – create a family friendly and welcoming home environment for everyone who passes through the door. The scope of the project and my client’s wish list goes something like this: The First Floor:
  • Enlarge the kitchen by bumping outward thereby changing the roofline and adding new windows.
  • Create a more open floor plan by opening up the kitchen to the dining room to improve the flow and allow for ease in entertaining.
  • Add floor to ceiling windows in the front and back to allow in much more light.
  • Adding on to create a new front entrance.
  • Transform an office for one into a family friendly workspace for four.
  • Expand the existing living room and family room by integrating the interior with the new exterior living space.
  • Incorporate a service/bar area under the stairwell.
  • Re-design a family friendly family room for children and adults by borrowing some extra space from the adjacent bathroom.
  • Reduce the existing full bath into a sleek new powder room.
The Second Floor:
  • Change out stairwell and railing design.
  • Renovate and re-plan the boys’ bath by providing a stall shower and second sink.
  • Create a master bedroom/bath spa environment by re-planning the entire master suite.
  • Add a full balcony off the master bedroom overlooking the back yard and outdoor living space.
  • Add ample storage throughout the entire home.
Practicality and style can reign supreme in a family friendly home – all the while keeping connected to family and friends while cooking, working online or paying some bills. This is the underlying theme in this home renovation project. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

The Brentwood Project

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design
Week 1 Clients of mine have been living in a 2800 square foot 4 bedroom, 4 bath home in a beautiful area of Los Angeles for the past 9 years. They are both in the Entertainment business, lead very active lives and just love to entertain.  They have two very busy boys ages 9 and 6 and currently their house just doesn’t function well enough for them – as it no longer meeting their needs. The home built in 1949 (updated and renovated 25 years ago) is dark, dated and in need of upgrading as the wear and tear is really beginning to show.  Doors and drawers are falling off the hinges, kitchen appliances and bath fixtures are no longer reliable and the entire family is in dire need of increasing the function of every room to keep up with their changing needs of this growing family. Here is a list of just a few of the problems they are dealing with: What No Longer Works.
  • My client Mrs. R is an avid cook and loves to entertain. The existing kitchen is slightly cramped and somewhat inefficient – as it can only accommodate dinner for four – wedged into a cramped corner.  Not to mention the antiquated appliances only work when they want to.
  • There is no formal foyer or entrance to speak of. Currently the front door opens within feet of the stairs leading up to the second floor.
  • A main floor bedroom, now used as an office for Mrs. R, needs to accommodate four different workstations for four different people.
  • A dingy and uncomfortable den where Mr. R works in the evenings is cluttered with uncomfortable seating, inefficient audio/video storage and poor lighting.
  • At the moment, the family room at the rear of the home is functioning as a play room rather than the intended function – so it needs to be completely re-designed and the neighboring full bath reduced in size so that we can borrow some of that extra space in order to improve the plan and layout of the family room.
  • The kids’ bedrooms are very tight.  The bulky furniture needs to be replaced with built-ins by borrowing some of the existing sloped ceiling/roof space within the rooms themselves.
  • Sharing one sink and an antiquated bath/shower for these brothers can be challenging at times.
  • The Master Bedroom has many charming elements that need to be restored and updated. The cathedral ceiling/beams and fireplace just to name a few.
  • The master bath and walk-in closet are poorly planned, oriented incorrectly with wasted space at every turn and need to be re-planned entirely.
It’s my job to look, listen and learn from my clients.  We need to identify the past successes and current failures and build upon those in order to design and create the dream home of their future.  Over the next several months I’ll share the trials and tribulations of this home renovation project with you – the good, the bad and the ugly! I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Renovating Your Master Bath For Maximum Profit

Posted on Categories Renovations2 Comments on Renovating Your Master Bath For Maximum Profit
When you live in a home long enough, eventually some neglected areas will beg to be repaired, upgraded or completely remodeled – the basic wear and tear of the property.  I met with a woman this week who had uncovered some mold in her master bath and since she’s now faced with correcting that problem, feels it would be the right time to finally update and gut her tired and very dated master bath. But something else factors in to the equation here.  She’s on the fence about whether to stay in her home or sell.  Her husband passed a couple of years ago and she’s now faced with a decision as to whether or not she wants to continue living in this spacious home.  She is seriously considering a move. Obviously she’ll want to spend her money wisely – and in this particular situation a new master bath design should appeal not only to her, but the potential buyer as well. So when considering a bathroom remodel of this kind it’s imperative to resist the urge to spend money on expensive fixtures, fittings and flashy trends that won’t appeal to the demographic you or your agent will be targeting. Here are a few tips to consider when renovating your bath for a maximum return on investment.
  • Know your buyer and renovate with that demographic in mind.
  • Commit to timeless and classic materials and finishes, which are beautiful and appealing to that particular target.
  • Be aware that homes are typically purchased on emotions and the reality is when it comes to many home improvements – women tend to be the nesters and the ones that will be most impressed with the kitchen and bath designs.
  • Design a frameless glass shower enclosure to visually expand the space.
  • Select an easy to clean neutral toned stone or quartz for the countertops and complementary floor and wall tile.  To make a more sophisticated statement, tile the entire wall surfaces from floor to ceiling.
  • Don’t over design the space for the current market – at the same time give it a special touch with accessories.
  • Lighting is everything.  Bright cheery baths flooded with light will perk up anyone’s spirit!
Whether you ultimately decide to stay or move, plan for a well-designed bathroom renovation which includes high quality materials and finishes.  If the space appeals to you, it will more than likely appeal to the potential buyer as well.  And that’s more cash in your pocket. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

The Benefits Of Adding Skylights To Your Home Renovation

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design
I just left a friend’s most charming home.   It was overflowing with character and graced by an incredible French antique furniture collection.  Each piece was highlighted by an inordinate amount of natural light flooding through each space. This quaint home didn’t overlook a spacious piece of property with large expansive walls of glass, or sport any of the “typical” window features we are all familiar with. Interestingly this charming two-bedroom home was anchored by two small courtyards – one situated at the front entry and the other located in the rear of the home each accessible by French doors and windows. So what made the interior of this home so bright and inviting? Skylights – strategically positioned in the kitchen, living room, bathrooms and master bedroom all in an effort to maximize the daylight.  And it worked!  What could have felt like a dark and dingy home (due to a long/narrow site), was a bright, lively and incredibly inviting home. So here’s some food for thought when incorporating skylights into your next home renovation project. Design Tips:
  • Skylights can be fixed or operable depending on your needs.
  • Skylights create an open/airy ambiance to any room.
  • If compared with traditional windows of the same size, skylights allow in almost five times more natural light into your space.
  • Natural lighting floods the space and immediately enhances the room and your mood as well.
  • Consider its size and placement and the attic space above.  A shallow well will wash more light throughout the space.  I like splaying (angling it outward from the rough opening) the well to distribute more light.
Energy Efficiency:
  • The right quality skylight (wood, vinyl or fiberglass frames) when positioned strategically could potentially increase the energy efficiency in your home and keep your heating costs down.
  • If installed with a southern exposure, over the winter months it will provide you with passive solar heating – which could reduce your heating costs. If possible install it in a shaded area under a deciduous tree to avoid some of the summer heat.
  • When positioned on an east-facing roof – you’ll get a maximum amount of natural light and heat in the morning hours.
  • Research the options and specify a low e coating for better insulation value.  It reduces the loss of heat in the winter and keeps your home cooler in the summer.
  • Saves on electricity as it maximizes natural lighting – reducing the need to turn lights on during the day.
So consider implementing a skylight or two into your next home renovation project. Not only will they add architectural style, detail and natural light to your home – they are also an excellent way to increase the overall value of your home. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Design Tips – Furniture Layouts That Work With Your Fireplace

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design

I love fireplaces!  I was inspired to write about this topic today while incorporating a new fireplace design into a home renovation project I’ve been working on.

Nothing makes you feel more comfortable and cozy than a crackling roaring fire on a cold winter day.  A fireplace instantly infuses character and charm into any room and gives the space its personality. A formal living room fireplace lets us know it’s a more mature space to relax or retire to on special occasions.  The more rustic stacked stone fireplace in the family room calls for everyone to kick back, relax and nestle in for a casual family gathering.  The dining room fireplace (my personal favorite) invites your friends and family to linger around the dining table for evenings filled with great food and even better conversation.

Whether it’s your living room, family room, dining room kitchen or bedroom, the fireplace is the focal point in the space and the proper furniture placement is imperative in order for you to make the most of your fireplace.

Symmetrical Layout
If your fireplace is centrally located within a wall and is flanked by windows or bookcases that are the same dimensions on each side, then you’re dealing with a more traditional space and personality – which speaks to a more traditional furniture placement.

  • Pairs are important here.  Flank a pair of comfortable and inviting chairs (or similar in size, design and proportion) on either side of the fireplace.
  • Place your sofa directly facing the fireplace and you now have a comfortable conversation area.
  • Situate a cocktail table, ottoman or other surface in front of the sofa.
  • Dress the mantle with a mirror, art, and other accessory pairs.
  • Anchor the area with a beautiful area rug and make sure to relax the formality and potential stiffness with some colorful objects and textures.

Asymmetrical Layout
In a more energetic space with the varied details, irregular nooks and crannies the fireplace that is off-center can create a more challenging space to layout.  It’s also a more interesting space to design.

  • You may still be able to place the sofa directly in front of the fireplace, but if that isn’t an option, consider positioning the furniture on a rug set on a slight diagonal turn.
  • Make sure that the floating furniture situated on that rug are positioned at right angles with each other.  It’s all about the relationship within the grouping itself.
  • For a more informal atmosphere, a more casual accessory placement above the fireplace mantle is expected.
  • Just make sure there is a balancing act between all elements within this asymmetrical space.

Open Floor Plans
Many homes have great rooms or large family spaces that are open and undefined.  If not designed properly they can feel unanchored as the furniture can feel unanchored in an opened multi functional space.

  • Open floor plans tend to flow from one space to another so it’s more important than ever to have each space relate to each other.
  • Create the furniture groupings in front and around the fireplace.
  • Direct the traffic and flow around the furniture grouping rather than through the space – thereby defining the living space and accentuating the focal point.
  • Keep everything clutter-free and avoid any sharp corners and obstacles,
  • Incorporate durable and space defining flooring and area rugs to help designate zones to help define the space and enhance that beautiful fireplace.

Finally, remember to keep your seating casual and inviting, use forgiving fabrics which allow you to kick back and relax – and sprinkle high end comfort throughout with luxurious down pillows to sink into at the end of the day.  Light the fire, grab your tea your favorite book and nestle in for the night!

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.