Houston Chronicle Sunday

Why should you do home remodeling project this year?

- By Lorraine Hart

There are many reasons to remodel. Maybe you want more enjoyment from your home or to make your home safer, improve your home’s function, increase the home’s energy efficiency or to increase your home’s value.

Springtime is often the time of year when homeowners begin to think about needed updates and improvemen­ts for their homes.

The most popular of home remodeling projects are kitchens, which is no surprise given how much time people often spend in and around this gathering space.

Kevin Vick, president of Vick Constructi­on & Remodeling, said, “Openconcep­t kitchens are a practical design solution, especially in the case of small homes. If you are taking down walls to have an open floor plan, using the same flooring though out the home will create a clean, continuous appearance and make the space appear larger.”

Bathroom remodeling can range from updating cabinets, tile and fixtures to a full remodel of a hall or master bath. If you are short on space and wish for a larger bathroom, replacing a tub with a shower with frameless glass doors will give the appearance of more room.

Installing brighter light fixtures or adding wall sconces around a mirror are other ways to make the room feel even larger.

Staycation­s are on the rise, and outdoor living projects are becoming increasing­ly popular. Projects such as decks and patios are becoming fullfledge­d living spaces with all the bells and whistles, such as TVs, fireplaces and elaborate outdoor kitchens with sinks, refrigerat­ors and ovens.

There is more focus on lighting, heating and cooling to extend the outdoor season during various weather conditions.

Whole-house remodeling has gained in recent popularity, perhaps due to the inspiratio­n gained from home remodeling television shows or because more people prefer to remodel rather than move.

Baby boomers are looking down the road 20 years and are considerin­g remodeling possibly to age in place.

In addition, homes are becoming more multigener­ational and often bringing the extended family under one roof.

More homeowners are making a commitment to their house.

If you are planning to improve your world by making your remodeling dreams come true, look for a contractor who has the skills and experience for your particular project, understand­s your goals, and someone you are comfortabl­e working with.

This article was provided by the GHBA Remodelers Council. For informatio­n, contact Lorraine Hart at lorraine@idealconsu­lting.net. To join the council or to find a profession­al remodeler in your area, visit www.ghba.org.

 ?? Photo courtesy of Vick Constructi­on & Remodeling ?? This remodeled kitchen features an open layout.
Photo courtesy of Vick Constructi­on & Remodeling This remodeled kitchen features an open layout.
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