Your bedroom is a place to wind down. When it is peaceful and inviting, it is a space where you look forward to spending the evening. But even great bedrooms can lose their luster over time. If your bedroom is in need of a “refreshening,” but you don’t have the time or money to completely renovate, there are many things you can do to bring back a look and feel you love.

Rework

Changing the face of your bedroom doesn’t have to mean replacing furniture. The cause of your bedroom boredom may be an all-too-familiar layout. If you have the space to move things around, try that before you try anything else. Working with what you already have costs you nothing and can result in striking changes. Rearrange furniture, re-hang pictures, and reposition accessories. You may have to lose an item or two along the way, but you will have achieved a new look in the process.

Clearing out clutter is another great way to enliven your bedroom. Again, your expense is zero but the payoff can be dramatic. Minimizing the objects in your bedroom has a calming effect. After organizing and rearranging, you may discover the facelifted space you were looking for.

Refinish

If you have wood floors, refinishing them is an inexpensive way to invigorate the room. Similarly, you can refinish or stain wood furniture for a big improvement or change. Metal trim and frames can be polished. Also consider painting your wood furniture. Painting will absolutely transform a piece.

Paint

On the subject of painting, the impact of a new wall color in your bedroom can be huge. Painting isn’t very expensive and, with patience, you can do a great job yourself. The least expensive and time-consuming idea is to choose a bold color and paint a single wall—an accent wall. The wall against which your bed’s headboard rests is a good choice. Of course, you can also paint the entire room for a greater change. Don’t forget about the ceiling and trim; both present additional opportunities.

You can employ wallpaper as well. You can wallpaper a single wall, add a border with wallpaper, or cover every wall in the room. The textures and patterns of wallpapers are great potential complements to painted surfaces.

Change the Bedding

The bed is the centerpiece of the bedroom, and there is a lot you can do to change its look. A new headboard or frame are fantastic options, though each can get expensive. With enough searching, you’ll be able to find an attractive new headboard or bed frame within your budget. Also think about replacing the bedding itself. You can do something as simple as adding a new duvet cover or as comprehensive as purchasing an entire set of sheets and covers. Another fast and easy option are accent pillows. As long as you don’t go overboard, new pillows can provide impressive pops of color.

Accessorize

After the furniture is in place and the paint has dried, add the right finishing touches with carefully-chosen accessories. Art is a versatilechoice,and it doesn’t have to cost much at all. You can find inexpensive prints in many stores, or you can replace the frame on a piece you already have. Don’t forget photographs—mount them on the walls or place them on furniture. Mirrors, especially those with interesting frames, are another source of decoration that will work in any bedroom. Whatever you choose, try to go with things that have personal meaning.

New curtains, blinds, or valences are other high-impact accessories. Sometimes just letting in more natural light will change a room. Speaking of light, consider changing the light fixtures in your bedroom or adding new lampshades to existing table lamps.

Two more additions to think about: plants and rugs. Plants will improve indoor air quality and can be effectively integrated into your overall design. Area rugs, even on top of existing carpet, create islands of interest wherever you’d like. The new furniture groupings you may be experimenting with can be anchored by a well-placed rug. A rug under the bed that spills out to provide a soft landing area for you feet is a classic choice.

Let’s face it, there are probably rooms in your home you’d love to remodel but don’t have the time or the resources to complete. Improving the value and overall enjoyment of a home doesn’t have to mean major changes or a gut rehab. There are plenty of ways to spruce up a home that don’t have to involve a lot of time or money.  Take a look at our five small projects that can have a huge impact on the style and functionality of your home.

1. A Coat of Paint Should Do the Trick

A fresh coat of paint is an obvious first choice that can really freshen up a home, whether it’s the walls, ceilings or the whole works—and don’t forget the trim! Older homes can have several layers of paint resulting in a caked-on an uneven look. Consider stripping that paint down to the base, especially around doorframes, wood doors, windows and molding.  Not only will this provide a nice clean surface to paint on, there could be some beautiful hardwoods underneath all that paint. If this is the case, stain and varnish are a great option instead of paint.

2. Polish Up Your Floors

Replacing old carpeting is an easy choice, as is refinishing a hardwood floor. Also consider that a room with wall-to-wall carpeting might have a gorgeous hardwood floor underneath that can be refinished and partially covered with an area rug—providing the comfort of carpeting while still showing off those stunning floorboards.

3. Cook Something Up For Your Kitchen

Kitchen remodeling doesn’t have to require a complete demolition team and hefty budget. On a larger scale, replacing cabinets, appliances and flooring are one way to go, although even a smaller scale effort can vastly improve a kitchen’s look. Consider re-staining or painting old cabinets, or simply replacing your cabinet’s hardware. Old countertops can easily be upgraded and really spruce up your kitchen’s décor.

4. Give Your Bathroom Some TLC

Given a bathroom’s generally small size, it’s easy to do an overall rehab without a great deal of expense. Consider replacing an old faucet and showerhead, installing a new medicine cabinet or a shower door, or adding some decorative pieces to bring the room together. Installing new tile or having old tiles regrouted are also great options for revitalizing your bathroom. But, don’t forget to re-caulk, especially around the tub. It’s all about the details!

5. Focusing on the Fixtures

Replacing old light fixtures adds a new look without much effort or expense, such as a new chandelier over the dining room table. Think about adding new lights in areas where you can chase away shadows, such as underneath kitchen cabinets or a favorite reading area.  Dimmer switches are also a nice touch that adds to the overall ambience of the room.

Adding a fireplace is a natural choice during any home renovation. It obviously provides warmth, but also serves as a focal point and adds a certain sense of coziness; a welcoming invitation to any room in the house.

Heat Sources

Wood Burning- Although many people are opting for more efficient options, wood burning fireplaces are still in demand.  Nothing can substitute the intense aroma of burning logs! Wood burning fireplaces lose about 90 percent of their heat through the chimney but many modern versions have increased efficiency.  Keep in mind that you will have to maintain a stock pile of wood and clean up ash and charred wood.

Gas- Gas fueled fireplaces require less maintenance than wood burning versions but provide the same look and feel.  Because they don’t require a chimney, gas fireplaces are easier to install but should be placed along an outside wall for gas and fume ventilation.  Just a flick of a switch is all that is needed to start a fire.

Electric- Similar to gas, electric fireplaces are much easier to install and maintain than wood burning options.  But, electric fireplaces need neither a chimney nor a gas line in order to produce flames.  This is why electric fireplaces are a popular option because they offer more versatility in terms of location.

Other Options- Another heat option for small fireplaces is gel.  The gel is a non toxic form of grain alcohol that is odorless and colorless.  Although not as powerful as its gas, electric, and wood burning counterparts, gel fireplaces offer minimal heat to surrounding areas and can be set up in any part of the house.  This option is great for people who don’t want the responsibility of a more traditional fireplace.  Some people even prefer using simple candles in their fireplaces for aesthetic purposes only.

Design Ideas

So you’ve decided on the perfect type of fireplace. Now it’s time to get creative!  Below are some options in fireplace décor that can make your new addition the focal point.

Traditional Brick- If you want the most classic option for fireplaces, then stick with brick.   Use a single color for the entire back drop or alternate with a variety of different tones.

Stone- Stone offers a more rustic look for your fireplace and can help accent a room with rich, earthy tones.  Place stones along the immediate borders of the fireplace or all the way up to the ceiling.

Mosaic Tile- For a more creative, eye catching fire place, mosaic tile is a great choice.  With an unlimited amount of colors and sizes, mosaic tile adds a little flair to any fireplace.  You might even consider breaking the tiles for a more custom, one-of-a-kind look.

Slate- Slate tiles are highly versatile and can fit any décor from classic to contemporary.  Its natural beauty and durability make it a popular option for many homeowners.

A Mantel­- No matter what backdrop you decide on, a mantel is another great way to draw attention.  Whether minimal or ornate, a mantle provides a decorative framework around your fireplace.

Paint- A simple coat of paint to the surrounding area around the fireplace may be all you need!  This option allows that fireplace itself to take center stage.

With the economy and housing industry in a funk and resources low for most homeowners, many remodeling needs are being pushed down their list of priorities.  Surprisingly enough, today’s economy provides a perfect opportunity for homeowners to remodel at a minimal cost.  Here are a few reasons why now is a great time to refinish your basement or upgrade with a new addition.

5 Reasons to Remodel Now

1. Low Interest Rates- Interest rates are at all time lows throughout the country.  The government wants people to put their money into the economy and help spur economic growth.  Therefore, borrowing for a home remodeling projects costs less now than it will in years to come.

2. Discounts from Contractors- People are hesitant to fund home remodeling projects because of the amount of money and resources it requires to complete the renovation.  By offering unbelievable discounts, contractors are hoping that homeowners will no longer push their home remodeling project to the side.

3. Future Savings- People with older homes experience less energy efficiency due to the products and standards used when their houses were built.  Newer materials and building codes assure that homes are more energy efficient and reduce heating and air conditioning bills all year round.  This offers a great incentive to start saving money with a home improvement project.

4. Value Added Small Projects- Even if you don’t have the money to fund a large remodeling project, now is a great time to fix up your bathroom or refinish your kitchen cabinets.  Small projects are projected to be one of the hottest trends in 2011 and for a very good reason.  Small updates require less time and can be achieved at a lower cost.

5. Costs More To Trade Up- Although the housing industry is in a buyer’s market, it may cost more than you think to trade up your home.  The buyer’s market also affects the time required to sell your home and the amount you’ll receive for it.  Instead of trading up, invest in a few home remodeling projects that you will see a great return on for years to come.

Home remodeling projects often require a great deal of thought, time, and resources in order to execute successfully.  If you’re considering different projects throughout your home, contact Airoom for a free, in home consultation to learn how we can transform your home.

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) surveyed their top builders and developers for industry trends in 2011.  Let’s explore the survey’s findings.

12 Trends for 2011

1. Save Money

This one might be a given, but people in 2011 are going to continue to save money by doing smaller projects like bathroom remodels.  Bathroom projects generally cost less than other rooms and because there is often more than one, remodelers can spend the year completing each one.

2. Must-Do Remodeling Projects

Many trends are dependent on the current economy and this one isn’t any different.  People will focus on remodeling jobs that are necessary like repairs rather than upgrades and extra features for their homes.

3. Warming Up The House

Homeowners are trending away from the white, minimalist look and working towards more warm, earthy tones.

4. Getting Decked Out

Considered more of a “want” instead of a “need,” people are building outdoor oasis areas instead of going on vacations.  They’re avoiding the expense of an extravagant vacation and building decks and pool areas to create lasting vacations in their backyards.

5. Hiring A Great Contractor

Homeowners are becoming more aware of the need for a great contractor.  They’re starting to ask the right questions so they know they get exactly what they’re looking for.

6. Paying In Cash

Loans are taking a back seat to paying in cash for home renovation projects this year.  With smaller, more manageable projects people are able to stick to a budget and pay in cash.

7. Opening Up Rooms

Open room plans are continuing to be a very popular option for homeowners.  Open spaces allow people to be more flexible with the area and encourage creative ways to distinguish different areas.

8. Bronze Age

Warmer tones are welcoming more bronze fixtures and features throughout the home.

9 .Going Green

Green is in, again! Energy efficient upgrades and popular green products like bamboo floors, grass thatched roofs, and bark siding are all new trends for 2011.

10. Industrial Flair

Exposed beams, cables, and other architectural fixtures contribute to the commercial look people are coveting.

11. Creating Relaxation Space

Homeowners are more stressed than ever these days so they’re relying on the comfort of their home for rest and relaxation.   People are designing rooms with tranquility and peace in mind.

12. Planning Ahead

Planning for your retirement? Even if you’re not, homeowners making remodeling decisions based on accessibility. Hand held showers, easy to maneuver kitchen and bath areas are on the top of people’s lists this year.

Although these trends offer a glimpse into the 2011 home remodeling industry, it is important to design rooms in your home that are functional and represent your lifestyle.  We will highlight one of these trends each month and offer more resourceful articles for all your home remodeling needs.

In today’s real estate climate, home sellers are having to do everything they can to maximize the liklihood that their home will sell in a timely fashion.  Oftentimes, a home is beautifully appointed on the interior, but the exterior is not as impeccably maintained.  This can result in the loss of a potential sale.  If a potential buyer doesn’t like the appearance of the exterior of the home, they may have a negative first impression which can cloud his or her overall impression of the home.  Worse yet, the buyer may not even come inside if the outside not not meet his or her standards.

Click here to find out how to maximize your home’s curb appeal.

It’s somewhat ironic that many people are religious about car maintenence, yet a car depreciates quickly over only a few short years.  A house, however, appreciates over time, yet homeowners tend to neglect annual the maintenence necessary to keep up the home until it becomes a problem.  The time to check for necessary repairs is now, not when those April showers make their way into your bedroom in the middle of the night.

So, what if you’re like so many other homeowners, and you just can’t squeeze in the time needed to inspect your home, you don’t know what to look for, or you are not physically able to climb ladders and crouch down in a crawlspace, etc…?

Airoom now offers seasonal home maintenence programs, some of which include handyman services to make any necessary repairs.  We’ll inspect your roof shingles, inspect your siding, inspect your smoke detectors, and much, much more.  For more information, call us at 847-268-4677 and ask about our seasonal home maintenence programs.

Every day, thousands of babies are born too soon, too small and often very sick. Our team is walking in March for Babies because we want to do something about this.  We’ll be marching on April 25th at Busse Woods in Elk Gove Village.
The mission of March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.  Funds raised in March for Babies support research and programs that help moms have full-term pregnancies and babies begin healthy lives. And they will be used to bring comfort and information to families with a baby in newborn intensive care.

Today, I’ll begin with a post that will be a regular feature on Airoom’s blog, called “Meet the Designers”  Each post will highlight one member of our family of designers, giving you a small insight into their background, specialties, and life outside of architecture and building.

Robert Heilman:

2010 marks Bob’s tenth year at Airoom.  Bob holds both a Bachelors and Master of Architecture from the Univ. of Il – Champaign – Urbana and became a Licensed Architect in 1993. He is also a Certified Green Builder.

Before joining Airoom, Bob held positions in project development for companies such as White Hen Pantry, Hertz, Gateway, Hallmark, etc. leading new store and facility project creation, but residential work has always been his passion. 

“I feel that over the last ten years I have excelled at understanding client’s needs/wants and translating those wishes into functionally beautiful projects!  I especially like kitchen and family room design as these spaces truly are the heart of the home!”

Some projects that Bob particularly enjoyed developing are:

Bob’s wife, Sheila and two daughters, Kelsey and Erin have resided in Oak Park for the last 20 years.  They love the community and are now in the midst of their third home renovation project!  You can say it’s a hobby that the whole family can enjoy!  When time allows you can find Bob and his family in northern Wisconsin sitting on a dock watching the loons and eagles.