How to Pick the Best Lighting Stores for Your Home Improvement Needs

May 30, 2023May 30, 2023Bruzzese Home Improvementshome improvementenergy efficient, home improvement, home remodeling, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the perfect ambiance in your home. Whether you’re looking to brighten up a dark room, create a cozy atmosphere, or add a touch of elegance, the right lighting can make all the difference. With so many lighting stores available, both online and locally, how do you choose the best one for your home improvement needs? In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the perfect lighting store by discussing key factors to consider, popular types of lighting, and what to look for in a reputable store. Let’s get started!

Assessing Your Lighting Needs

Before you start searching for lighting stores, it’s essential to assess your lighting needs. Consider the following questions:

What is the purpose of the lighting in each room? (e.g., task lighting, ambient lighting, accent lighting)
What style are you aiming for? (e.g., modern, traditional, industrial, farmhouse)
Are you looking for energy-efficient lighting options?
What is your budget?

By answering these questions, you’ll have a better idea of what you’re looking for, making it easier to find the perfect lighting store for your needs.

Types of Lighting Stores

There are several types of lighting stores, each offering different products and services. Some of the most common types include:

Specialty Lighting Stores: These stores focus solely on lighting and offer a wide range of fixtures, including pendant lights, chandeliers, sconces, floor lamps, and table lamps.
Home Improvement Stores: In addition to lighting, these stores offer a variety of home improvement products and services. They typically have a smaller selection of lighting fixtures compared to specialty stores but may offer lower prices.
Online Lighting Stores: These stores operate exclusively online and offer a vast selection of lighting fixtures at competitive prices. They may also offer customer reviews and detailed product descriptions to help you make an informed decision.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lighting Store

When selecting a lighting store, consider the following factors:

Selection: Look for stores with a wide variety of lighting fixtures, including different styles, sizes, and price points.
Quality: Ensure the store offers high-quality, durable products from reputable manufacturers.
Customer Service: Choose a store with knowledgeable staff who can help you navigate the selection process and answer any questions you may have.
Return Policy: Look for stores with a flexible return policy in case you change your mind, or the fixture doesn’t work in your space.
Installation Services: Some stores offer professional installation services, which can be helpful if you’re not comfortable installing the fixtures yourself.
Price: Compare prices between stores to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Popular Types of Lighting Fixtures

There are several types of lighting fixtures to choose from, including:

Pendant Lights: These hanging fixtures are perfect for providing task lighting over kitchen islands, dining tables, or workspaces.
Chandeliers: These elegant fixtures add a touch of sophistication to dining rooms, living rooms, or entryways.
Sconces: Wall-mounted fixtures that provide ambient lighting and can be used to highlight artwork or architectural features.
Floor Lamps: These versatile fixtures can be easily moved and provide both ambient and task lighting.
Table Lamps: Perfect for adding a touch of style and providing task lighting on bedside tables, desks, or side tables.
Outdoor Lighting: Illuminate your outdoor living spaces with wall-mounted fixtures, post lights, or landscape lighting.

Online vs. Local Lighting Stores

Both online and local lighting stores have their advantages and disadvantages. Online stores typically offer a more extensive selection and lower prices, while local stores allow you to see the fixtures in person and offer personalized customer service. Consider the following when deciding between online and local stores:

Convenience: Online stores allow you to shop from the comfort of your home and typically offer free shipping.
Personalized Service: Local stores offer the opportunity for one-on-one consultations with knowledgeable staff.
Returns And Exchanges: Returning or exchanging a fixture may be more straightforward at a local store, as you won’t have to deal with shipping and restocking fees.
Supporting Local Businesses: Shopping at a local store helps support your community and local economy.

Energy-Efficient Lighting Options

Energy-efficient lighting options, such as LED lights, can help you save money on your energy bills and reduce your environmental impact. When shopping for lighting fixtures, look for stores that offer a wide selection of energy-efficient options, including LED bulbs, ENERGY STAR-rated fixtures, and smart lighting controls.

Conclusion

Selecting the best lighting store for your home improvement needs can be a daunting task, but by considering your lighting needs, researching different types of stores, and evaluating factors such as selection, quality, and customer service, you can find the perfect store to help you create the ideal lighting design for your home. Don’t forget to consider energy-efficient options to save money and reduce your environmental impact. Happy shopping!

Why Pivot Doors Are the Way to Go

June 14, 2022June 11, 2022Bruzzese Home Improvementshome remodelinghome decor, home remodelingLeave a comment

Has your home improvement décor gotten a little tired? Do you wish you had a bold new look that is still functional and welcoming?

If you’re ready to try a new “do,” why not go for a good, clean pivot door?

This is the kind of door you never noticed before, but once you do, you can’t do without. Doors, especially exterior doors, are always the first thing potential buyers see. They represent your taste and the style of your home.

If you are looking for a new face for your building, here is why you should install pivot doors.

Boost Your Home’s Resale Value

Pivot doors are the way to go to increase your home’s resale value. These doors are a modern, sleek option that can make any home look more contemporary and stylish.

They’re also a great space-saving solution for smaller homes, as they don’t require a swinging motion. Plus, they’re easy to install and can be found in various materials, so you can find the perfect option to match your home’s style.

Save on Your Energy Bills

If you’re looking to save on your energy bills, then pivot doors are the way to go. Not only do they offer a stylish and modern look to your home, but they’re also extremely energy efficient.

Pivot doors are designed to seal tightly against the frame, which helps to keep cool air in during the summer and warm air in during the winter. This tight seal also helps to reduce drafts, which can help to keep your energy bills down.

Create a Grand Entrance

There are many reasons to choose a pivot door for your home. Pivot doors add a touch of luxury and can make a grand entrance. They are also very practical, as they do not require a lot of space to open and close.

If you are considering a pivot door for home renovations, you must also keep in mind to get pivot hinges as this will make these doors possible. Read about swinging door hinges at swingingcafedoors.com.

Add Flexibility to Your Floor Plan

Pivot doors are a great way to add flexibility to your floor plan. They allow you to open up a room without having to remove any furniture or obstacles. Pivot doors can also be used to create a more open feel in a room by creating a larger opening.

The Pinnacle of Luxury Doors

Pinnacle doors are the epitome of luxury, and pivot doors are the pinnacle of luxury doors. Pivot doors are sleek, modern, and make a bold statement.

They are the perfect addition to any home improvement, and they are sure to impress your guests.

Pivot Doors 101

If you’re looking for a door that makes a statement, provides a modern look, and is easy to operate, then a pivot door is a way to go. These are ideal for both residential and commercial settings and come in a variety of styles.

Pivot doors are becoming increasingly popular for both interior and exterior doors due to their clean lines and minimal design.

These doors are also extremely versatile, as they can be used in a variety of settings and can be customized to fit your specific needs.

Read on for more home renovation related articles like this one.

3 Home Improvement Projects That Will Increase Your Home’s Value

April 26, 2022May 18, 2023Bruzzese Home Improvementshome improvementhome improvement, home remodelingLeave a comment

Is your current home your dream home? If not, there may be a few home improvement projects you can do to make it feel more like the home you’ve always wanted.

Better yet, there are ways you can increase home value, provide a buyer with their dream home, and put extra money in your pocket at the sale of your home.

Read on to learn three tips to increase the value of your home, whether you stay long-term or sell your home for a higher price.

1. Update Your Kitchen

Your kitchen is one of the focal points in your home. An outdated kitchen can quickly deter a potential buyer if you are looking to sell. A kitchen you don’t love can keep you from inviting people to your home.

A kitchen home improvement can be just what you need to increase the value of your home. And the good news is that it doesn’t have to be a complete kitchen overhaul.

Studies show that homeowners who complete a minor kitchen remodel recoup 72.2% of their investment, while major kitchen remodels only recoup 57.4%.

Give your kitchen a simple facelift by updating your cabinets and countertops to give the room a whole new look.

2. Add Solar Energy

Installing solar panels in your home may be one of the best investments for your home improvements. After your initial investment in the installation, solar energy begins saving you money. When selling your home, the new homeowner will be able to reap the benefits from these savings.

Consider contacting gofloridasolarpanels.com for an estimate and to learn more about the value of adding solar panels to your home. Whether you stay in your home or put it on the market, you will see the immediate benefits of solar investment.

3. Level Up Your Home’s Curb Appeal

On your list of upgrades, don’t forget to spruce up your home’s curb appeal.

You don’t need extensive and expensive landscaping to add value to your home before someone walks through the door. Home improvement projects for your front yard may include painting your front door and shutters or adding stone veneer to the exterior.

Other ideas could include updating your mailbox and house numbers and cleaning up your landscaping with fresh mulch and flowers.

If you have a limited budget, cleaning your siding, power washing your driveway, and pruning bushes and flowers will help bring your front yard together.

Drive up to your home and feel like you are looking at a brand new home. Small changes can make an ample impact.

Home Improvement Projects to Boost Your Home’s Value

Whether you want to change your forever home into your dream home or spruce up your home before putting it on the market for a fast sale, set yourself up for success with these home improvement projects.

Update your home through small or big projects and learn from the experts. Find other tips and resources for home improvement on the blog.

8 Packing & Planning Tips For Home Renovations

April 18, 2022April 14, 2022Bruzzese Home Improvementshome remodeling, Movinghome remodeling, MovingLeave a comment

We all get excited when we hear words like design and renovation. It gets our heart-rate pumping at all the creative possibilities, the opportunity to indulge our ingenuity and perhaps do it ourselves. However, it all comes with careful planning, time, and effort, to avoid stress.

Home renovations begin with a firm idea of what you want to alter in your home. Whether you want to add a whole new section or a new coat of paint, if you plan on renovating every room, including the bathroom and kitchen, it needs proper planning. You need to define the color and décor themes for each room and identify any necessary structural changes or cabinet additions.

The scale of your project will determine three major issues. First, whether to hire a contractor or you can do it yourself with a little help from a few skilled craftsmen. Secondly, you need to decide whether to live in your house during the renovation process or find alternative accommodation. Finally, what is your budget, and how far can it extend? Here are some expert tips to peacefully get through the packing and planning phase.

Packing tips

1. Consider downsizing

Throw any junk lying around the house. Not only junk but also stuff that you don’t use anymore. You can donate to charity or give it to someone who can use it productively. Get rid of old clothes, worn-out shoes, unused cutlery, or faulty electronics. Downsizing can benefit in positive ways:

Backyard sale; extra earning
Help friends and families
Lighter load
Space for new things

2. Select a Storage Facility

Do your research and find secure storage facilities with a good reputation and easy access. If you live near New Palestine in Indiana, you can use the New Palestine self storage since they offer climate-controlled storage with round-the-clock security monitoring. Monitored self-storage facilities can give you the freedom to access your storage box at your convenience and yet ensure the security of your belongings. You will need facilities with a climate control system to keep your clothes, jewelry, furniture, and electronic items safe and sound. Do not forget to ask questions related to:

Facilities pest control
Any restrictions or timings that limit access to the facility
Ask about their security system to keep units safe
Also, ask for recommendations from people around you

3. Use bubble wraps and labels

Use bubble wrap to protect crockery, wall hangings, and fragile decorations, such as vases, lamps, and glass ornaments. Label each item to make it easier to unpack and transport the objects. You wouldn’t have to worry about opening the wrong boxes or looking through all the cartons to find what you’re looking for.

Planning Tips

4. Set Your Goal!

Many people directly jump into buying supplies and searching for contractors when they are unsure what kind of changes they are looking for. Instead of worrying, you need to sort out a few questions like:

Why are you renovating your home?
Is it a temporary change or long-term?
What changes are essential, and what changes are a luxury?
Are you allowed to make the planned changes as per your area regulations?

Finding answers to these questions will automatically help you set your renovation goals accurately.

5. Stay within your budget.

Setting up a budget is not the most important task but sticking to it is. People often go over their budget whenever they go to the store and see new things that appeal to them. Even if we hire a contractor, fresh and expensive ideas can be tempting. The following two suggestions may be useful:

Search and visit the market before setting up your budget.
Always give your contractor an amount of 25% less than your final budget. If you are thinking of adding more sparkle to the project, you will be at peace knowing that you have enough backup.

6. Consider Your Situation

Home remodeling is not the same as organizing your closet; it is considerably more time-consuming and disrupts your life for a few weeks or months. It refers to a wide range of situations and scenarios. If you have children, you must consider your work schedule and your children’s school calendars for study and extra-curricular activities.

Of course, don’t forget about the weather. Good weather is essential for completing all construction projects on schedule. It will be difficult to organize any outdoor renovations during the rainy season or in winter when it starts to snow. The holidays are great for planning and organizing reconstructions, upgrades, and facelifts. Special occasions are another good time to schedule such work, as long as you can find willing contractors and craftsmen. If special occasions are a busy time for you, find some other time because nobody wants a thousand things going on simultaneously.

7. Acquire Permits

Many homeowners overlook getting the necessary building permits in a bid to start the renovation process as early as possible. Acquiring permits is a vital step to ensure there are no objections raised against your projected changes at any time by local code inspectors. The main things inspectors must assess are whether the reconstruction follows the structural and fire safety regulations. Code inspectors can ask you to pull down any unauthorized construction or additions that don’t conform to local building codes.

After you’ve spoken to your contractor or artisans, you will know what steps are involved in your renovation project. Accordingly, you should apply for permits for alterations featuring windows installations, plumbing, and electrical and structural changes, like if you are installing a new water heater or adding a shed or a garage. You will need a permit for any demolitions and walls you are planning to knock down or build, even if you transform your garage into a work-from-home space or add an underground sprinkler system. What kind of a permit? You can approach a local office to find out.

If you don’t want to be disturbed during the property renovation, you should get a permit first. Applying for permits after you’ve started work or completed the renovation is a costly issue. It is better to seek approval during your projected home renovation’s packing and planning stage.

8. Clean-Up & Seek help

After weeks or months of overwhelming routine, assembling everything can be far more exhausting than disassembling. Most of the time, people do not ask for help to save money. Now that you’ve already spent a lot of money, it’s time to hire someone to clean up after the renovations. After cleaning up, you can enlist the support of your friends and family to help you put everything back in its place.

Winding up!

The renovation process is unquestionably difficult and aggravating. However, it can flow more smoothly by following these recommendations and guidelines. The packing and planning phase is when you start collecting new ideas for your home’s aesthetic look. Once you’ve chosen the look and feel that appeals to you, you can start talking to contractors while you pack away your possessions and get busy acquiring the necessary construction permits.

Four Creative Exterior Home Remodeling Ideas

January 18, 2022January 18, 2022Bruzzese Home Improvementshome remodelinghome remodelingLeave a comment

Were you aware that exterior home remodeling is a great way to add value to a home and make it look more attractive?

Many people are hesitant to get into home remodeling because they don’t want to spend a lot of money. However, you can get several exterior home remodel ideas that will drastically change your home and won’t cost much.

To help you, we’ve put together a small list of several creative exterior home remodeling ideas. Soon, you can start making amazing changes to your home without breaking the bank.

Here are four exterior home remodeling ideas!

1. Add New Paint

One of the best ways to drastically change the way your house looks is to add new paint. Whether you add a fresh coat of the same paint or use a different color, your home will look much better and you’ll increase the longevity of your siding.

While the home exterior remodel cost can vary depending on what you do, painting is an affordable option. However, you should spend some time looking at different types of house paint to determine what will look best.

2. Install a Patio

Aside from adding new paint, you can also take drastic measures and install a patio. When looking at exterior home remodel ideas, many people recommend installing things like porches and pools because they can add more value to your home.

Similar to adding new paint, installing a patio will make your home look more appealing. It will also give you more space to do outdoor activities. For example, you can place a grill on the patio and won’t have to worry about stability or rain.

3. Update the Roof

If you’re looking to make your home look more attractive while also preventing wear, you should update the roof. Many houses have shingle roofs, though some have metal and brick roofs. No matter what you have, research the local costs so you can start setting a budget.

Consider checking out the Roofing Company at diligentexteriorremodeling.com to learn more about replacing a roof. You can also get thorough answers to questions like “How much does it cost to remodel a home exterior?”

4. Improve Landscaping

If you end up looking for exterior home remodeling services, consider asking about improving your landscaping. Because this is one of the first things people will notice about your home, it’s best to maintain it as best as possible.

You can keep the grass trimmed, plant flowers, clean your sidewalk, and more. Do anything you can to keep the ground clean, then you’ll have no problem going through with other exterior home remodel ideas.

Exterior Home Remodeling Has Never Been Simpler

Now that you’ve read this article, you have several exterior home remodeling ideas to consider. With this info, we encourage you to start thinking about what you’d like to change to your home.

Whether you’d like to increase your home’s value or simply make it look better, you’ll have no problem doing so by following this advice.

To learn more about the home exterior remodel cost and more, check out our other articles!

6 Home Upgrades and Improvements That Add Tons of Value

October 4, 2021October 4, 2021Bruzzese Home Improvementshome improvement, home remodelinghome improvement, home remodelingLeave a comment

Many people are surprised by stability in the housing market despite this never ending pandemic. Even the remodeling sector is expected to grow by 5 billion dollars this year alone.

This makes sense, considering that people worldwide have spent more time in their homes than ever before. Considering the fierce competition in the housing market, it’s no surprise that homeowners are readying their homes long before resale. The right renovations even increase home value.

If you’re thinking about home remodeling, consider these six home upgrades that improve the value of your home.

1. Open the Floor Plan

Modern homebuyers want modern floor plans. And that means open floor plans. Closed-off rooms are traditional and make the space feel smaller.

This is a big renovation job that typically involves opening the living room, dining room, and kitchen areas. You’ll need to knock down walls and potentially add some load-bearing beams into the ceiling.

2. Update the Garage

More specifically, update the garage door. This plays into the concept of “curb appeal” because a home’s exterior plays a huge factor in how much homebuyers expect to pay. Also, mentioning a brand new door when negotiating will help get them closer to your asking price.

If you can’t afford to replace the door completely, consider repainting it at least.

3. Invest in Hardwood

If you’re lucky, your home may have hardwood hiding under your flooring. If not, considering investing in hardwood once your current flooring hits the upper limit of its lifespan.

It’s a substantial bet that any homeowner looking at your home is hoping for hardwood floors. Homes already with hardwood will command a higher asking price.

4. Replace the Roof

Roofs generally have a lifespan between 20 and 50 years, depending on the material. A potential buyer looking at your 20-year-old roof sees an expensive project they need to do right after they spend a lot of money buying a house. It’s not ideal, and it gives them leverage in negotiation.

While you’re up there, consider adding solar panels. You can read more about this investment at blueravensolar.com/north-carolina/raleigh/.

5. Repaint the House

This is a simple way to add value to the home, especially for the house’s exterior. Again, this plays into “curb appeal” and gives the homeowner more leverage in negotiation. It helps the potential buyer see the home as high quality and deserving of a high price.

6. Finish the Basement

Finishing a basement adds square footage to the listing, demanding a higher listing price. This is a massive project, however, that requires installing drywall, adding flooring, and painting.

More Home Upgrades to Consider

Not all home upgrades add noticeable value to the home, but that doesn’t mean they’re not valuable. Some renovations are done out of comfort or necessity for the homeowner. Just make sure whatever the project is, it’s completed in a timeless style and of the best quality.

For more helpful home improvement articles like this one, take a second to browse our page.

Remodeling after Water Damage: Tips from a Homeowner Perspective

September 15, 2021September 15, 2021Bruzzese Home Improvementshome improvementhome improvement, home remodelingLeave a comment

Coming from a homeowner’s perspective, it’s not a pleasant experience to see your house getting flooded. There could be several reasons, for instance, you have a faulty pipe, got hit by a storm, or perhaps experienced heavy rain. Imagine the vast amounts of water gushing into your house, which is messy to deal with, while witnessing the spoiled furniture, wrecked place, and even the possibility of mold.

Depending on how extensive the damage is, you may be in for the long haul. So, to save you from the trouble of getting overwhelmed, here’s a list compiled for you. So with a proper plan in place, you can save yourself substantial money. So here’s what you need to do when you get hit with massive flooding:

Prepare For The Worst

Water damage is always massive. So when you’re inspecting the area, prepare yourself for the worst. When you’re mentally ready to tackle the load ahead of you, your anxiety level may drop. You’re able to formulate a plan for yourself and spring into action. First, detect where the water is coming from. In any case, whether it is a pipe burst or it rains through your roof, you must immediately call a professional to help you survey the damage. However, a water damage advisor can take a survey and provide you with details of the damage and the repair process. When you have these answers, it’s time to get your hands dirty.

Pull Your House Apart

You need to clear the space. Drain all the excess water by pumping it out of your house. Once the place is nice and damp, take out all the soaked items. You may need to tear the wallpaper, pull out the carpets and lift the furniture. If the water is on several levels of your house, you may need to repeat the process. You may want to take all these materials out of your home and into the yard. Clear out the space entirely so you can drain your house correctly.

Let It All Dry

You may need to call disaster recovery right away. The more you waste time, the chances of mold growing get higher. Start drying everything that is in your house. Inspect your air conditioning and heaters for water damage. If they’re in the clear, you need to turn them up to help dry water faster. If you’re wondering when the remodeling part will start, you can’t start it right away. You need to have a house to remodel. Unless you reclaim your space from the water seepage, you can’t fix anything.

Inspect For Mold

Even if you’re swift, there is still a chance the mold sneaks up on you. So, after you cleared your house, inspect the infrastructure. Mold will grow anywhere damp and slightly wet. The most common places for mold are bathroom walls and in between wooden sheets. If you see mold making an appearance, you need to get help. Mold is easy to detect; it discolored the walls and the floor. So you can tell where mold has started acting up. It rots the structure, so you can’t mount anything on top of the mold. Once the mold is out of the way, you can begin the process of rebuilding.

Call Your Insurance Company

House repair can easily be one of the most expensive processes. Therefore you must have house insurance. Insurance companies will come and inspect the damage themselves. That is not because they need to know how much adjustment your house will need. After they draw up their inspection, the company will take care of most of the costs. You may have minor payments to do yourself. However, nothing will curb your budget.

Start The Process Of Remodeling

Structure damages need immediate addressing. You may want to hire a contractor and let them get rid of old insulation and structure. They may need to replace the roof and even ceilings depending on what the water damaged. After they lay down a new structure, you should get the contractors to repaint your walls or add wallpaper to the walls. The first step may take time. You need to decide how much patching you need.

Consider The Upgrades You Need

Remodeling makes you consider what your house needs. You may not stock up on previous appliances. You may also need new furniture. So think about what your house needs the most and what you can manage. You don’t need to compromise style for functionality but instead of stuffing your home, give it room to breathe. You may want to invest in waterproof furniture and even waterproof the house where you can. Now, all of these new upgrades may cost you more than you intend, therefore prioritize what your house needs.

Fix The Wiring and The Pipes

Water damage tends to go in places where it can cause maximum damage. You may have wires that have water. Even if the wires look fine but are damp, you can risk a short circuit. So make sure you get all these core components of your house changed. Please make sure the new pipes you choose are far more durable with protective paint on them. The same goes for the wires. They need to have proper insulation.

Find Refuge

It would help if you kept in mind remodeling and fixing a house after substantial damage takes time. Even after the job is complete, you need to ventilate your home. So you may need to find a place to stay. Don’t rush the process. It would help if you had ample time to recover your house. You can visit your home as often as you like but stay away from paint fumes. You can check into a motel or a hotel. It is also not unusual to live with a relative for a while. However, it would help if you figured these dynamics with your family.

Keep Making Decisions

Unlike buying your first house, remodeling is vastly different. You may start with a plan and change your mind many times. That is a part of the process. You may find a suitable way to remodel your house, which is cheaper than the original plan. Don’t be afraid to pitch your new idea to the contractors. After all, you’re trying to reclaim your space. So, you want to make decisions that last you a few hours. Part of your decision-making should also include reviewing your insurance. The end goal of your planning is to have a sturdy house.

Wrap Up

Water can leave lingering damages in your house, which can impact the very infrastructure of your accommodation. Unlike other times of disasters with water, timing is everything. So you need to be quick on your feet and salvage your house. Hire professionals right away and let them start the process of draining. You want to dry the space to avoid mold settling in quickly. If mold does happen to occur, once again, remove it right away. When you’re happy with the clearing process, start the rebuilding process. You may need to make serious decisions about what goes on in your new space. When you’re happy with the restructure, move right back in.

Psychology of Colour in Interiors – Infographic

September 6, 2021September 6, 2021Bruzzese Home ImprovementsHome Improvement Tips, infographichome improvement, home remodeling, home trends, infographicLeave a comment

It is believed that colours can have a psychological impact on how we as humans think, feel or act; there is a reason why it’s called ‘feeling blue’. With this in mind, it is wise to take into consideration what colours to put where when it comes to interior decor. Certain rooms should contain certain colours depending on the mood you want to be in each room; whether it’s the paint on the walls or a simple throw on a couch.

To take a deeper look into the psychology behind colours even different shades of one colour can have an impact. It is believed that a dark purple can seem dramatic so would be better suited to a living room; whereas a lighter shade can be more calming and could be put in a bedroom. Another thing to keep in mind is to avoid mixing more than three or more colours in a room, this can lead to the room being a bit chaotic and generally make people stressed.

The following infographic by EZ Living entitled “Psychology of Colour in Interiors” discusses the colours that should be used in each room from the paint and wallpaper to the furniture and accessories; and how the psychology behind them (e.g. red in the entrance hall to create a strong first impression). The infographic looks at what the experts have to say on the matter of psychology of colours. While also looking at the age-old 60-30-10 rule for timeless decoration when putting together a cohesive colour scheme; this rule is meant to give balance to the colours used in any space by splitting the room into 60% (main colour – walls, couches, rugs), 30% (secondary colour- curtains, bed lined, painted furniture ) and 10% (accent colour – beds, lamps, bedside tables).

This guide will save you both time and money on your remodels

January 30, 2021January 30, 2021Bruzzese Home Improvementshome remodelinghome improvement, home remodelingLeave a comment

After years of thinking about it, you’re finally ready to move forward. You’re finally ready to remodel your home’s kitchen or bathroom. There’s just one question: where do you start?

For many homeowners, kitchen and bathroom remodels can feel slightly intimidating. There’s so many decisions to make and things to complete. Don’t let your upcoming renovation overwhelm you! In this article, we’ll walk you through several ways to start thinking about your remodel that will maximize your return-on-investment (ROI) and help things run smoothly.

Prioritize your ROI

On average, U.S. homeowners spend about $22,000 on remodeling their kitchen and around $19,000 renovating their master bathrooms. That’s a significant upfront investment, but the results are typically worth it: both projects have a relatively high ROI, at 80.5% and 70.1%, respectively. You can push that return even higher. By prioritizing your ROI above all else, you can lower your upfront investment while maximizing the home value boost that comes with completing a major remodel.

To accomplish this, you need to stick to the essentials. In your kitchen, this means finding high-quality countertops and cabinets at the right price. Talk to your remodeling contractor to see if they can get you a great deal on quality granite and quartz countertops. In the bathroom, put the time and money into renovating the shower and avoid costly “extras” like an expensive bathtub.

In both spaces, always be thinking about the next homeowner. You want to love your new kitchen or bathroom, but you don’t want it to be a space only you’ll love. Stay within the design mainstream while adding personal accents and touches to make it your own. Walls can always be repainted—an eclectic countertop is pricier to replace.

Make the most of small improvements

Once you’ve priced all the major items out, you’re only going to have a couple hundred dollars left over for accessories, decor, and other features. By making the most out of these small improvements, you can put the finishing touches on your renovation.

First, there’s paint. Inexpensive and easy, it’s one of the best things you can add to your new kitchen or bathroom. Add paint near the end of the project when it’s less likely it will be damaged in the renovation process.

Many homeowners overlook lighting. Light changes our perception of space, and outdated lighting isn’t going to do your new kitchen or bathroom any favors. Work with a professional to hang new pendant lights over your kitchen island and install new under-cabinet lighting above your beautiful countertops. If your kitchen or bathroom has access to natural light through a window or skylight, take advantage of that: your home will never look better than it does in natural sunlight!

Know your own limits

We live in a DIY-friendly world. Want to tile your own bathroom? There are literally hundreds of online videos and walkthrough guides showing you how to do just that. It’s never been easier for homeowners to pick up that screwdriver, paint brush, or hammer and get to work.

This freedom comes with responsibilities, however. It’s important for you, as a homeowner, to know when you’re not cut out to take on a particular project or repair. You’re not admitting defeat: you’re recognizing when something is outside of your wheelhouse and better handled by a professional.

Take plumbing, for instance. There’s a good chance that your kitchen and bathroom remodeling plans involve some degree of plumbing work. If you decide to try doing this work yourself, you could save the money you would have otherwise spent hiring an experienced and licensed plumber. But, there’s a tradeoff: you also run the risk of making plumbing mistakes that one day can lead to a water leak. When the stakes are high, you need to work with an expert, whether they’re a plumber, electrician, or general contractor.

Start planning your project

Let’s call a spade-a-spade: many homeowners put off remodeling because they find the entire process a bit intimidating. It’s not just about the upfront investment: there’s just so much to think about and plan. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and call a locally trusted remodeling contractor. There’s nothing better than having an experienced guide who can walk you through the renovation process, answer your questions, and take care of hiring subcontractors and other specialists. In short, it’s a game-changer.

Ready to move forward with your kitchen or bathroom remodel? We’ve only scratched the surface in this article. For more helpful home renovation tips, check out this infographic.

Your guide to kitchen and bathroom remodeling

Apartment renovation tips to make small space look bigger

January 27, 2021January 5, 2024Bruzzese Home Improvementshome improvement, Home Improvement Tipshome remodeling, home renovation, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

cozy green living room with lots of wall art

So, you plan on remodeling your home to make it appear larger than it currently is. Many people find it difficult to imagine how they can do that without making large structural changes in their home. However, there are a few apartment renovation tips to make a small space look bigger without investing too much money into elaborate changes of your living space. Read on to find out how to do this easily.

Room flow is one of the most effective apartment renovation tips to make small space look bigger

Essentially, you need to think about your living space in terms of occupied and free space. Although this can be challenging if the rooms in your apartment are rather small, it is far from impossible to find an adequate solution for your furniture placement. This is important because the way you walk in, out, and through the rooms significantly influences the overall impression you get from spending time in the given space.

You will feel better about your interior design if you enable your space to breathe, so to speak. One way to achieve this is to simply declutter your living space from unnecessary things that you had gotten so used to you do not even take notice of its cluttering effect.

For example, once you get rid of such belongings, you might be able to achieve a smooth room flow by buying a smaller and more ‘space-friendly’ dresser that does not take up as much space as an old, clunky wardrobe might.

Avoid swerving to make small space look bigger

If possible, always place furniture and large appliances away from doorways. This works towards maintaining an unobstructed movement through the rooms. Likewise, be sure to place furniture against the walls – even armchairs, chairs, and smaller tables such as bedside and glass tables.

Define boundaries in your living space

Smaller spaces can be visually broken up with the help of rugs, carpets, or flooring to create an illusion of two independent and distinct wholes. So, with clever rug placement, you can clearly designate where one part of the room is supposed to be. This also helps create a clear boundary of occupied and free room space, that is, a clear room flow.

Create a Path

As with creating boundaries, creating a clear path from one doorway to the other allows the eye to scan the room as an ordered, chunked space. Accordingly, make sure to get rid of roadblocks from the path that ruin the balance of room flow.

a bright room with white armchairs table sofa — **Always try to have the passage through the room unobstructed with unnecessary things.**

Create smaller, focused, and usable areas

At first sight, dividing your room into smaller visual compartments might sound contradictory since your goal is to make the small space appear larger. However, if you are using the room for two or three particular purposes, it makes sense to focus the items that you use to do the activity into a single corner or part of the room.

So, if you are using a single room as an office, leisure room, and a dining room, then it makes sense to place larger pieces of furniture such as your desk at the opposite side of the sofa and TV. If the room flow allows it, then you can place a small table and chairs next to a wall in the middle of the room. This clever sectioning of different activities keeps your living space focused, the room flow clear and thus, makes the entire room appear larger.

a study room with a filing cabinet and a sofa — **There are ways to make the room multifunctional and uncluttered at the same time.**

If you are doing major remodeling, we suggest you consult a reputable moving team on how to achieve the best effects with smart furniture placement. We recommend hiring a moving company such as Ample Moving NJ, since they have ample experience with placing furniture and appliances into all kinds of apartment types and sizes.

Use wall art, lighting, and paint to enlarge the space

Another way to additionally section parts of the room is to add decoration to signal the imaginary lines of separation. Wall art and focused lighting in one part of the room can let the visitor observe the space as a distinct area, which mentally contributes to the feeling of spaciousness. The same goes for paint – you can play around with bright and neutral paint colors to achieve an effect of depth contrasted with light.

During your apartment renovation, applying wall art, lighting, and paint to make a small space look bigger should make the process as affordable as possible since you do not have to invest in buying new, sleek furniture to replace your old furniture.

Appropriate wall paint and lighting is crucial

Most interior designers vouch that professional interior painting is a must when it comes to creating a clean, tidy, and spacious surrounding. Another benefit of investing in good wall paint is the fact that it can bring an entirely fresh and new feel into the room. There are two common ways you can refresh your small space and make it appear larger.

Firstly, white, off-white, or any other neutral nuance of white optically makes the room feel open, large, and fresh. Also, it is the best color to make the room feel less cramped, since it does not clash with other colors, especially when accompanied with good lighting with white, quality light bulbs.

a white room with grey carpet and plants — **Neutrals are good for creating an easy, bright vibe.**

In fact, the importance of lighting when it comes to making small spaces visually larger cannot be stressed enough. Remember that nice lighting goes a long way, no matter the size of the room.

Another way to achieve an interesting effect is to add depth to your all neutral walls. Painting one wall inside the room into a bold, well-pigmented color is among old apartment renovation tips to make small space look bigger.