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You can use these tips to make your small bathroom seem like a large, luxury room .  Plan an effective renovation by using concepts like those below to provide an illusion of height and space.

You can also see images from my award winning bathroom from HGTV Designer’s Challenge as examples.

• An illusion of height comes with moving the eye vertically so consider a tile installation from floor to ceiling. Think vertical with mirrors, sconces, accents, shelves to emphasize vertical.
• A crown moulding will also create height.
• Wallpaper with a vertical pattern or a painted vertical stripe  is another option.
• Mirrors  add depth, width and length to a small room.  The mirror reflects and distributes light throughout the room.
• Clear shower doors increase  space and light. A fully frameless shower removes barriers.
• Consider a skylight or Solatube to add light to the bath.
• Large tiles increase a sense of space. Rectified porcelain tiles allow narrow, nearly invisible grout lines.
• Floating cabinets, a pedestal or wall mounted sink  also make the floor space seem larger. A vanity cabinet unit takes up a lot of floor space, so avoid if possible.
• Light coloured walls, floors and simple décor makes a room seem larger. 
• Clutter  exacerbates the problems of a small bathroom so select storage solutions to minimize it.

HGTV

Tags: HGTV Designer's Challenge, remodel, Seattle, small bathroom ideas
Posted in Ideas and Inspirations | 1 Comment »

The sinks by Sanindusa represent a new level of design and environmental committment.  They are not only beautifully designed but also made of recycled materials. 

Choose your favorite and let me know your vote!

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Tags: most popular sinks, Portland, recycle, remodel, Seattle, sinks
Posted in Ideas and Inspirations | 2 Comments »

One of my favorite places for tile is Statements in Seattle.  Not only is the staff knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, they provide beautiful resource examples throughout their showroom.

Even more helpful is their blog and I feature in this post the top ten tips to consider when using tile in a remodel. (author:  Britt Bertolucci)

1.Something to consider when doing a kitchen backsplash is outlet placement. Jamen suggested placing outlets under the cabinets. This makes your design smoother and is easier to use in the long run.

2.If you have two different floors that bump up to each other, plan the thickness of the under-lamenant. Most installers can do this for you but it is still something to consider and discuss prior to picking your tile.

3. Like I mentioned last week Schluter is a great and often less expensive alternative to sometimes more costly bullnose or trim pieces

4. Very important: Make sure you or your installer remove all preexisting materials before the install. Also check for damages and see if any repairs are necessary. It is always better to start with a clean slate when remodeling. .The 20% your saving now by not doing having a clean slate now could cost you a 120% in 6 to 8 months.

5. When looking for shower pan tiles you should use 4″x4″ or smaller for proper sloping.

6.Time!! Research your tile choice ahead of time. Some tile is special order so make sure you have the time if necessary so you get something you truly want and not something you are ok with, but will hate in two years.

7. Remember your color choices. Try not to get something that will date itself in a few years.  

8. Remember it is NOT cheaper or faster to do it twice. On that note make sure your installer is a reputable one who preferably is licensed and bonded and will not take costly shortcuts.

9.When using grout and thinset, check with the manufacturer’s recommendations and always read directions about application and sealing procedures.

10. Counting the cost.  Don’t be scared of the highest estimate. The highest estimate is not always the worst. It often will cover all your bases, because remember, there are always unexpected surprises. ALWAYS!

Tags: color, decorating, remodel, Seattle, tile
Posted in Ideas and Inspirations | 1 Comment »

Locate a designer

Helios Carpet is promoting LocateADesigner.com in Metropolitan Home magazine. The ad is on page 46 of the November issue and is on newsstands now!

This Website was developed by Helios Carpet to help you find the right interior designer for your decorating or remodeling project. Designers from all over the country have posted profiles that include information about their services, experience, and qualifications, along with images of their work.

Click on Locate A Designer to find a designer near you.

Tags: decorating, interior design, remodel, resource
Posted in Ideas and Inspirations | 3 Comments »

Ed Del Grande of Kohler shares his top ten tips:

1. Turn off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving to avoid using excess water.
2. Cut a minute off your shower time every day to save more that 750 gallons of water annually. Also consider swapping out your showerhead with a low-flow model that can reduce water usage by one-half gallon per minute.
3. Landscape with native or drought-tolerant plants to significantly reduce water usage outside the home.
4. Replace old toilets with High-Efficiency Toilets (HET) to save up to 17,000 gallons of water annually.
5. Use leftover water for houseplants instead of pouring it down the drain.
6. Make sure the dishwasher is fully loaded to maximize the number of dishes cleaned in a cycle.
7. Use the appropriate water level and load size on the washing machine when doing laundry. Consider purchasing a front-load washing machine.
8. Fix leaky faucets and install low-flow aerators on kitchen and bath faucets to effortlessly save 200-300 gallons of water each month.
9. Use a broom rather than a hose to clean off driveways, steps and sidewalks.
10. Water your garden during the coolest part of the day, generally in the morning, and avoid watering on windy days.

Tags: Green Design, remodel, water conservation
Posted in Ideas and Inspirations | No Comments »