Inspiration for a contemporary galley medium tone wood floor and brown floor kitchen remodel in Austin with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, marble countertops, brown backsplash, paneled appliances and multicolored countertops

Achieve contemporary flair with fully customized EpicVue windows. Photo credit: JELD-WEN
Dining room - contemporary dining room idea in Charlotte

Inspiration for a southwestern patio remodel in Albuquerque

Benefits of Plantation Shutters Plantation shutters offer advantages and benefits to homeowners over other window coverings including: • A permanent addition to a house: While they don't add much to the sale price and don't guarantee a return on investment, the curb appeal helps the house sell faster. The permanency of plantation shutters allows them to be included in appraisals. • Versatility: Many have the ability to open only halfway if desired. If you want to let in all the light, plantation shutters swing away from the window to grant an unobstructed view. • Insulation: When all louvers are closed, a good insulating barrier is created, trapping unwanted temperatures and saving you money on your energy bill. • Easy maintenance: With wide louvers, a simple wipe-down is often all that's needed. Vinyl shutters can be taken off their hinges and sprayed off for a major cleaning. • Elegance: The classic, yet modern look conveys a permanency like no other window dressing can. Whether painted or natural wood, they all have a look that says; welcome home. Wood vs. Faux Wood It's not hard to argue that natural wood is more appealing than vinyl or PVC. However, "faux wood," as it's sometimes called, has some advantages: • Price -- Faux wood shutters are often lower in price than real wood. • Weight -- Because some shutters are made "hollow core" (as opposed to vinyl-wrapped medium density fiberboard, MDF), they can be significantly lighter. • Moisture Resistance -- If you live in an area with high humidity, hollow faux wood or aluminum core will resist expanding and sagging. (MDF core louvers will tend to expand and crack as the material swells with moisture.) Natural wood is the choice for those who have a very healthy budget or for whom a specific appearance is a must. Among the advantages are: • Size -- Because wood plantation shutters are made of hardwood, they can be quite a bit larger than plastic or vinyl. Vinyl shutters larger than 29 inches may be prone to sag, so they need divider rails or other supports which can destroy the traditional look of a plantation shutter. • Natural -- While vinyl or plastic shutters can be painted to match any color scheme, the natural shades and finishes of the various species of wood have something for every look. • Classic -- While many plastic shutters can be made to look like real wood, the faux wood finishes can vary significantly depending on manufacturer and model. Up close, it can be easy to tell they're plastic. The warmth of natural wood is a classic feel that's impossible to beat. Popular Plantation Shutter Brands When you go to purchase your plantation shutters, brands names may offer a good representation of high-, mid-, and low-cost range of what's available. Which one you choose depends on your budget and your tastes. Hunter-Douglas and Norman Shutters produce three lines of plantation shutters in both real wood and faux wood styles. A higher-end product, Hunter-Douglas may be worth the cost for beauty and quality of workmanship. The Window Outfitters and Sunland produce a mid-cost line of shutters. The mid-range pricing may be for those who are balancing aesthetics with a budget. National franchise and or box stores may not offer an in-house expert or designer. Look to local companies that specialize in plantation shutters looking online may offer a low-cost brand for budget-minded DIYers. Available in both faux and real wood, the affordability combines with the visual appeal to make this a very popular choice for plantation shutters. Regardless of which line you go with, be sure to ask about frames. Generally all manufactures offer frame choices and may add to the cost, but they add an unsurpassed beauty and warmth to a room with plantation shutters. Plantation shutters look like similar to wooden blinds, but there are significant differences. Blinds are often narrow, made of aluminum or vinyl, and the slats tilt based on a gear and pulley mechanism and they hang in the window with cords. By contrast, plantation shutters have wide compound louvers that fit into a frame and are controlled by way of a wooden rod running up the middle. When not needed, they can be manufactured to swing back onto the wall. Options to are available to build a more contemporary look with a larger view with a “hidden tilt” feature. Cost of Plantation Shutters Nationally, the cost of plantation shutters, depending on their size and the material, whether or not they are custom arches and colors or stains, may vary. Most manufacturers want their shutters to be professionally installed to keep the warranty intact which is a benefit to the customer in the long run. They will usually have a limited lifetime warranty. Cost of Installation Costs for having plantation shutters installed by a contractor are a bit more predictable. Contractors who have installed plantation shutters before can quickly get accurate measurements and suggest which materials would work best in different rooms. For example, while natural wood may look beautiful in your living room, it might not be so practical in a bathroom where moisture will cause the wood to warp. The size, material, and quality of the shutter will have a significant effect on the cost. Contractors usually go through a shutter supplier and can get various sizes that are not normally available at home improvement stores. Hiring a professional team of knowledgeable suppliers and installers is a good choice. Here are some sample prices of the shutters most contractors use for standard-sized windows: In general, plantation shutters should cost approximately $20 to $26 per square foot. Labor costs depend on factors such as the contractor's workload, remoteness of the location, environment, and the contractor's overhead. Labor generally runs about $100 per hour and will be added to the shutter cost. • 16x20 -- Faux wood $120. Real wood $156 • 24x50 -- Faux wood $160. Real wood $208 • 36x54 -- Faux wood $270. Real wood $351 • 36x60 -- Faux wood $300 Real wood $390 • 42x72 -- Faux wood $420. Real wood $546 • 48x82 -- Faux wood $550. Real wood $715 DIY Plantation shutters can be purchased and installed by the homeowners. How much they cost will depend on size and material. Faux wood shutter’s cost depends on size and wooden shutter’s cost will depend on size and whether or not they are painted or stained. • Natural wood is $90-$600 depending on size. Many companies offer standard stained selection but custom color matching may be available from $175 -$250. • Faux wood will be from $120-$500. • Additional tools include: Hang Strips $4-$15 and about $4 for mounting hardware. Locks or closures can cost up to $15 for each shutter. Finally, if you order them online, you can expect to pay $30-$70 shipping per shutter or per set of shutters per window depending on the supplier. Keep in mind that even if you're handy with tools, installing shutters can be time-consuming if you've never done it before there is defiantly a learning curve.

Trendy balcony photo in DC Metro

Ryann Ford
Inspiration for a cottage home design remodel in Austin

The kitchen exudes ample storage, natural light and room to cook and share the space with loved ones. Scott Amundson Photography, LLC
Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional u-shaped eat-in kitchen remodel in Minneapolis with a farmhouse sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, beige backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops

Challenge After living in their home for ten years, these Bonita Bay homeowners were ready to embark on a complete home makeover. They were not only ready to update the look and feel, but also the flow of the house. Having lived in their house for an extended period of time, this couple had a clear idea of how they use their space, the shortcomings of their current layout and how they would like to improve it. After interviewing four different contractors, they chose to retain Progressive Design Build’s design services. Already familiar with the design/build process having finished a renovation on a lakefront home in Canada, the couple chose Progressive Design Build wisely. Progressive Design Build invested a lot of time during the design process to ensure the design concept was thorough and reflected the couple’s vision. Options were presented, giving these homeowners several alternatives and good ideas on how to realize their vision, while working within their budget. Progressive Design Build guided the couple all the way—through selections and finishes, saving valuable time and money. Solution The interior remodel included a beautiful contemporary master bathroom with a stunning barrel-ceiling accent. The freestanding bathtub overlooks a private courtyard and a separate stone shower is visible through a beautiful frameless shower enclosure. Interior walls and ceilings in the common areas were designed to expose as much of the Southwest Florida view as possible, allowing natural light to spill through the house from front to back. Progressive created a separate area for their Baby Grand Piano overlooking the front garden area. The kitchen was also remodeled as part of the project, complete with cherry cabinets and granite countertops. Both guest bathrooms and the pool bathroom were also renovated. A light limestone tile floor was installed throughout the house. All of the interior doors, crown mouldings and base mouldings were changed out to create a fresh, new look. Every surface of the interior of the house was repainted. This whole house remodel also included a small addition and a stunning outdoor living area, which features a dining area, outdoor fireplace with a floor-to-ceiling slate finish, exterior grade cabinetry finished in a natural cypress wood stain, a stainless steel appliance package, and a black leather finish granite countertop. The grilling area includes a 54" multi-burner DCS and rotisserie grill surrounded by natural stone mosaic tile and stainless steel inserts. This whole house renovation also included the pool and pool deck. In addition to procuring all new pool equipment, Progressive Design Build built the pool deck using natural gold travertine. The ceiling was designed with a select grade cypress in a dark rich finish and termination mouldings with wood accents on the fireplace wall to match. During construction, Progressive Design Build identified areas of water intrusion and a failing roof system. The homeowners decided to install a new concrete tile roof under the management of Progressive Design Build. The entire exterior was also repainted as part of the project. Results Due to some permitting complications, the project took thirty days longer than expected. However, in the end, the project finished in eight months instead of seven, but still on budget. This homeowner was so pleased with the work performed on this initial project that he hired Progressive Design Build four more times – to complete four additional remodeling projects in 4 years.

Inspiration for a coastal bathroom remodel in Los Angeles

Frost-proof containers are a must in Colorado. The initial investment might give you pause, but when you think about how easily plastic pots break, it's worth getting pots that can be used year round. Large pots can be anchored with a tall perennial flower or even small shrub, and filled-in with annuals for more color. Draping vines like sweet potato ('Marguerite' in chartreuse green!) provide contrasting color and texture against a jewel-tone container.

Living room - mid-sized transitional formal and enclosed living room idea in San Diego with beige walls, no fireplace and no tv

Photo: Bonnie McCarthy © 2015 Houzz
Elegant kitchen photo in Los Angeles

PROTECTION FROM HURRICANE-FORCE WINDS, RAIN, SALT AND SUN Just as it’s important to choose the right new or replacement windows for your home or business, it’s equally important to choose the right doors. Selecting your doors’ material is your first decision, which can have a tremendous impact on the cost. Be aware that some materials, like fiberglass, may cost more than others. You’ll also want to look for energy-efficient materials to help you cut down on energy costs. While they may require a higher initial investment, high-impact hurricane doors are specially designed to withstand heavy winds, rain, moisture, salt and sun. Whether you’re worried about the damages caused by hurricane-force winds, flying debris or Florida’s year-round direct sunlight, high-impact hurricane doors offer continuous protection and peace of mind, so all you have to worry about after installation is how you’re going to enjoy all that sunshine!

The Pros and Cons of Fix and Flip Real Estate Investment Last week, we covered The Pros and Cons of Buy and Hold Real Estate Investment for rental property investors. This week, we want to talk about the other most common type of real estate investment: “fix and flip.” The Appeal of House Flipping We all love the house flipping shows on HGTV and other reality channels. They’re great and they make the prospect of buying, renovating and flipping homes for big profits seem super sexy and fun. However, any experienced real estate investor will tell you it’s not quite as easy as they make it look. There’s a lot of work that goes into a successful fix and flip investment. The basic premise of a fix and flip investment is pretty simple. You buy a property, usually one that needs some work and is available at a great price. You renovate the property, making the necessary repairs and upgrades to maximize its resale value. Then, you sell the property on the open market for the highest possible price. You get in and out as quickly as possible. Full-time flippers will move from property to property or will have multiple properties being worked on at the same time. Rather than the “buy and hold” strategy where you keep the house while earning rental income and equity over time, you are looking for the quick sale to earn your profits. If you are going to explore house flipping—whether as a full-time career or just a side hustle—you will want to know exactly what you are getting into. That is why we are going to cover the pros and cons of fix and flip real estate investment in this article. The Pros of Fix and Flip Here are some of the pros of fix and flip investing: Faster Return on Investment—The biggest appeal of fix and flip investing is that it gives you a quicker return on investment. Buy and hold will take you longer to see your ROI. House flipping allows you to see your full profit (hopefully) as soon as the house sells. The average house flip for an experienced investor is around six months. It may take longer for a first-timer who is just learning how to do certain things. Fairly Safe Investment—As long as you do all your projections and calculations carefully and avoid any major problems along the way, house flipping is a relatively safe investment strategy compared to something as turbulent as the stock market. Real estate markets are generally predictable and the short time frame of a flip helps you avoid losses if the property happens to depreciate over a longer period of time. Exciting—There is a reason why there are so many reality shows based around flipping and none based on buy and hold investing. It’s an exciting process to buy a home, gut it and completely renovate it. Then, you get the ultimate reward of selling it and collecting the profits—as long as you do things right. The Cons of Fix and Flip Here are some of the cons of fix and flip investing: Upfront Expenses—A house flip will require a lot of upfront expenses. We’re not only talking about financing the house itself, but all the renovation costs and other expenses involved in the flip. You are laying out all that money at the beginning and only seeing your returns when the property sells. This can create cash flow issues and stress if you fall being schedule or go above your initial budget. Taxes—House flips will usually create dramatic swings in income year over year, and that can increase your tax bill. You have to pace things correctly to take advantage of specific capital gains tax rules. Capital gains taxes are higher on any property owned less than a year, so you have to find that balance of how long you own any specific investment properties and how long it takes to complete the renovation and sale. Before you get too deep into fix and flip investing, you will want to talk with your tax advisor to make sure you have the right plan in place. Surprises—All real estate investment is susceptible to surprises. You don’t always know what lies behind the walls until you start the renovation process. You cannot plan for everything as a real estate investor, but you have to be prepared for anything. It is a good idea to add some wiggle room in your budget and overestimate your renovation expenses/timeline to cover any surprises that may come up. These are some of the biggest pros and cons of fix and flip real estate investment. Of course, there are other things you need to know as an investor, so be sure and do your homework in order to get the most out of your investment portfolio. Both fix and flip and buy and hold strategies can be highly lucrative if you do things right. There are no wrong answers, but there are wrong ways of doing things if you truly want to be successful in this field. If you are looking for great investment properties to fix and flip, join the exclusive PropertyLark home buyers’ network. If you qualify, you’ll have access to our exclusive off-market deals and analytics tools that will help you identify the best investments and get the highest possible ROI. Fill out the contact form and questionnaire on the PropertyLark buyer’s site to apply!

Example of a southwest kitchen design in Phoenix

Example of a kitchen design in Los Angeles

Laundry rooms and mudrooms can be a headache for many homeowners. They are usually cramped with poor functionality and little storage space. Joe and Kristin suffered all those aches and more, as their laundry room lacked clothing storage. Shoes were crammed in every corner. There was nowhere to fold clothes without taking them to the kitchen. They were ready for a complete laundry room remodel project. Joe and Kristin interviewed several local remodeling companies but didn’t connect with anyone who could understand their vision. During the summer, when they were attending their son’s race venue, they noticed fellow kart racers Todd and Christine Jurs’ sponsor banner for their remodeling company, Advance Design Studio. Immediately they were thrilled that they knew someone they trusted who could handle the renovation. “We wanted someone that we actually knew, who has a little bit more invested than an outside person that we don’t have any ties to,” Kristin said. Project Designer Nicole Ryan came to their home in Warrenville for the initial consultation. Kristin, an avid HGTV viewer, brought her ideas to Nicole. Throughout the design process, they worked together designing the space, selecting materials, and choosing colors. Nicole made sure to incorporate Kristin’s must-haves into the finished laundry room remodel. “It was really easy. Nicole made the transition very easy,” Kristin said of Nicole’s work in the design phase of the project. With the materials selected and the drawings finalized, it was time to begin construction. Kristin and Joe were impressed with how quickly and cleanly this phase went. “Everyone that came in was very respectful, very neat, and that was a big part for me because I didn’t want dust going through the rest of my house,” Kristin said. The new combination mudroom/laundry room is everything Kristin and Joe hoped. There is plenty of storage, three pull-out laundry hampers for presorting laundry, a large central island for folding clothes, a designated bar to hang dry, and even a unique rotating shoe rack to keep shoes from cluttering the space. “My rotating shoe rack,” Kristin said when asked what her favorite part of her new laundry room was. “We have four kids. We have a lot of shoes and sporting events. So it makes sense to have all that space for shoes.” The center island has an exceptional feature as well. It has wheels. Kristin wanted to be able to move the island out of the way for different functions in the room. An island with wheels can be placed wherever needed in the space. The two existing closets were reconfigured with built-in closet storage systems to make them more functional than before with shelves for baskets holding gloves and hats, umbrellas, and coats. “They love it,” Project Designer Nicole Ryan said. “They had a vision of how they wanted the space to function but didn’t know exactly how to get it there. My design took all their needs and used the most efficient products to get them the desired outcome. Tons of function, while still looking beautiful!” The “White” Hudson Panel Dura Supreme cabinetry on the perimeter brightens the space and contrasts the popular blue “Gale Force” Dura Supreme cabinetry of the rolling island. The black and white encaustic design porcelain tile backsplash adds visual interest to the room above the white quartz countertops. Additionally, an oil-rubbed bronze bar for hanging clothes is conveniently located above the washer/dryer, and a stainless-steel under-mount sink with a matching Kohler faucet offers perfect functionality. “I would definitely recommend Advance Design; they’ve been wonderful. They were so helpful. Any little changes we had, they were able to accommodate,” Kristin said.

Exterior home photo in Santa Barbara

Expert Bathroom Remodel Services by Construction and More Las Vegas At Construction and More Las Vegas, we understand that the bathroom is one of the most essential and personal spaces in your home. Whether you’re looking to update an outdated bathroom, create a luxurious spa-like retreat, or improve functionality and storage, our expert bathroom remodel services are designed to bring your vision to life. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and personalized design, we serve homeowners throughout Las Vegas and the surrounding areas, including Summerlin, Henderson, Paradise, Spring Valley, and Boulder City. Why Choose Construction and More Las Vegas for Your Bathroom Remodel? Expertise and Experience With years of experience in bathroom remodeling, our team has the knowledge and skills to handle projects of all sizes and complexities. We stay up-to-date with the latest design trends and technologies to ensure that your bathroom remodel not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Customized Solutions Every bathroom remodel is unique. We tailor our services to meet your specific needs and preferences, creating a custom bathroom design that reflects your personal style and complements your home’s aesthetic. From vanities to showers, every element is chosen with your vision in mind. Quality Craftsmanship Our commitment to quality craftsmanship ensures that your bathroom renovation stands the test of time. We use only the highest quality materials and employ precise techniques to deliver a finished product that is both beautiful and durable. Comprehensive Services Our comprehensive bathroom remodeling services cover everything from initial design and planning to final installation and finishing touches. Whether you need a full bathroom renovation or a simple makeover, we provide a seamless and stress-free experience. Our Bathroom Remodeling Process Initial Consultation and Planning The process begins with a detailed consultation to understand your vision, needs, and budget. We provide expert advice on design, layout, and materials to create a plan that enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom. 3D Design and Visualization Using state-of-the-art 3D design software, we create realistic renderings of your proposed bathroom remodel. This allows you to visualize the space and make adjustments before construction begins, ensuring that every detail aligns with your vision. Custom Vanities and Storage Solutions Custom vanities are a cornerstone of any bathroom remodel. Our skilled craftsmen design and build vanities that maximize storage and reflect your style. Whether you prefer modern sleek designs or traditional classic looks, we create vanities that are both functional and beautiful. Countertops and Backsplashes The choice of countertops and backsplashes significantly impacts the look and feel of your bathroom. We offer a wide range of materials, including granite, quartz, and marble, to suit your style and budget. Our team helps you select the perfect combination that adds elegance and durability to your bathroom. Lighting and Fixtures Proper lighting is essential for both functionality and ambiance in your bathroom. We design and install lighting solutions that highlight key areas, such as vanity lighting, recessed lighting, and ambient lighting. Our selection of fixtures includes a variety of styles to match your bathroom design. Shower and Bathtub Installation Modern showers and bathtubs are integral to a functional and luxurious bathroom. We guide you in selecting high-quality, stylish options that meet your needs and complement your bathroom design. Our team ensures seamless installation for a cohesive and polished look. Flooring and Finishes The right flooring enhances the beauty and practicality of your bathroom. We offer a variety of flooring options, including tile, natural stone, and luxury vinyl, to suit your preferences. Our team ensures professional installation and finishes that withstand the rigors of daily use while adding elegance to your space. Construction and Project Management Once the design and materials are finalized, our experienced construction team takes over. We manage the entire remodeling process, from demolition to final touches, with meticulous attention to detail. Our project managers coordinate all aspects of the remodel, ensuring that the work is completed on time and within budget. We keep you informed throughout the process, addressing any concerns and ensuring your satisfaction. Bathroom Renovation in Las Vegas and Surrounding Areas If you’re searching for “bathroom renovation in my area,” look no further than Construction and More Las Vegas. We proudly serve Las Vegas and the surrounding communities, including Summerlin, Henderson, Paradise, Spring Valley, and Boulder City. Our local expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction make us the go-to choice for all your bathroom remodeling needs. Why Bathroom Remodeling Matters Enhanced Functionality A well-designed bathroom maximizes space and improves functionality. Whether it’s adding more storage, upgrading fixtures, or reconfiguring the layout, our remodels ensure that your bathroom works better for your daily routine. Increased Home Value A bathroom remodel is one of the best investments you can make in your home. An updated, modern bathroom increases your property’s value and appeals to potential buyers if you decide to sell. Improved Aesthetics Our remodels transform outdated bathrooms into beautiful, contemporary spaces. From luxurious finishes to modern fixtures, we create a bathroom that is both stylish and inviting. Energy Efficiency Upgrading to energy-efficient fixtures and appliances can reduce your utility bills and environmental footprint. We offer a range of eco-friendly options that save water and energy without compromising on performance or style. Our Commitment to Sustainability At Construction and More Las Vegas, we are committed to sustainable practices in our bathroom remodels. We source eco-friendly materials and prioritize energy-efficient fixtures to reduce environmental impact. Our team is dedicated to creating beautiful, functional bathrooms that are also kind to the planet. Testimonials and Case Studies Our satisfied clients speak to the quality and reliability of our services. We have successfully completed numerous bathroom remodels, each tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of our clients. Visit our website to read testimonials and view case studies of our work. Contact Us Today Ready to start your bathroom remodel? Contact Construction and More Las Vegas for expert bathroom remodeling services that combine functionality, beauty, and quality. Our experienced team is here to bring your vision to life, creating a bathroom that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Call us today for a free consultation and let us help you create the bathroom of your dreams. Whether you need a complete bathroom renovation or a custom bathroom remodel, Construction and More Las Vegas is your trusted partner for exceptional bathroom transformation services.