3 Money Saving Strategies That Will Save You Thousands on Your Home Renovation Instantly!

Plan Ahead - Avoid the guesswork down the road. Use your time wisely, don't panic or race against the clock.

*Determine your goal and nail down the scope of your project.* In kitchens and baths if your original footprint continues to meet your family's needs, then keep all plumbing and electrical in the same location.*Bathroom fixtures: Choose white or almond. They're typically less costly and look fresh and cleaner longer. *Faucets and fittings: The most reasonably priced faucets are shiny chrome. A high- end chrome faucet costs much less than a satin nickel version. A high- end chrome faucet costs much less than a satin nickel version.*Borrow space from neighboring rooms, closets, hallways.*Zero in on your wish list and need list.3. STICK WITH THE STANDARDS*Consider a bump out or cantilevered window bench in the kitchen, thereby avoiding the need of a full foundation.*Ask yourself a litany of questions.*Educate yourself- be methodical, truthful.*Supplement electrical rather than move it by adding outlets along the backsplash and sides of the island.*Gather your ideas - Educate yourself on materials, finishes and appliances available.*Try to work around load bearing walls-don't remove them.*If your kitchen's work triangle functions well then keep the original locations of the appliances, fixtures and utilities. Moving plumbing can double the cost.*Figuring it out as you go = costly mistakes later.* Select standard cabinet door styles and finishes without getting too fancy. Don't include any bells and whistles in the interiors of cabinets if you don't need to. (FYI drawers are costlier than doors so if it works, use fewer drawer fronts).2. KEEP WITHIN YOUR EXITING FOOTPRINT*Kitchen appliances: There are more cost effective stainless steel appliances available now, competing with the higher end competitors - or you can always consider some sleek black and white appliances.*Assess your needs and evaluate the overall scope of your project - what do you need, what do you want?*When shopping and specifying doors and windows, stick with standard sizes. Stay away from custom. There are an endless selection of standardized products that could save you double.

*Bathroom fixtures: Choose white or almond. They're typically less costly and look fresh and cleaner longer. *Faucets and fittings: The most reasonably priced faucets are shiny chrome. A high- end chrome faucet costs much less than a satin nickel version. A high- end chrome faucet costs much less than a satin nickel version.

Home Ideas: Tricks of the trade

QWE want a white glossy kitchen with stainless steel backsplash and very shallow cupboards above on the wall. The cupboards need to be high enough that we can run a shelf beneath. Our budget is tight. Any ideas? - Mr & Mrs. Taylor, Leeds.

AWITH a little help from the experts yes. Henkel have a newish range of products called DIY Minis that you can buy from some supermarkets and most DIY stores. There are nine products in the range and each pounds 3.49 can is about the size of a hairspray. Products include sealants, adhesives and fillers. They are perfect for the novice. You'll need to remove all the sealant from the bath before you re-seal, and remove all the flaking grout before applying new. As for the cracks, smooth on the filler and then when dry, sand smooth. For tips on using the products call 01606 593933 or see the website at www.makingdiyeasier.co.uk - good luck!ATHIS might fit the bill. It's made from a dark bronzed wrought iron and is made up of crystal droplets, rather similar to a typical LA chandelier. Behind the screen are tealight holders that can be lit when the fire isn't, giving a warm glow whatever the weather. It costs pounds 59.95. Call Scotts of Stow on 0870 600 4444 or see www.scottsofstow.co.ukALOOK for ways to combine both, such as simple, modern wooden furniture but maybe in a rustic wood. The fabrics shown here are all from John Lewis and feature typical Japanese flower designs (from pounds 25 per metre), but still look fresh and modern. Look out for traditional lanterns made with rice paper - there's a great collection at John Lewis (08456 049 049, www.johnlewis.com)QYOU recently featured a lovely red leather armchair. I am looking for something similar but in velvet. Where can I get one? - Robert Colvin, Bangor, Wales.QI WANT to paint the walls in my bedroom, but there are a few cracks, and the grouting in the bathroom needs touching up and the seal around the bath is peeling off. Can I sort these problems out myself? - Jane Banks, Chelmsford, Essex.QWE are decorating our living room and want something with a Japanese theme. I think we should go modern, but my husband prefers a more traditional version. What do you advise? - Mrs A. Atkinson, Halifax.AHERE is just the thing! Ricotta, by Hygena at Curry's, comes with either a plain white door or a glazed option, both perfect to hang on the wall. The wall cupboards (pounds 76 each) are half the height of standard wall units, so can be positioned higher up the wall. The lights underneath (pounds 60 for a pack of two) complete the look perfectly. Call Hygena at Currys for more information on the range on 0870 7200167 or see www.currys.co.ukAHABITAT has this gorgeous velvet armchair, above, that has a removable cover for cleaning. It comes in Mink, Foggy, Pink and this beautiful Bordeaux colour. It costs pounds 469 and you can order it online at www.habitat.co.uk or call 0845 6010740 to find your nearest store.

ATHIS might fit the bill. It's made from a dark bronzed wrought iron and is made up of crystal droplets, rather similar to a typical LA chandelier. Behind the screen are tealight holders that can be lit when the fire isn't, giving a warm glow whatever the weather. It costs pounds 59.95. Call Scotts of Stow on 0870 600 4444 or see www.scottsofstow.co.uk

Designing With Mirrors

Sometimes the simplest changes can create the greatest impact in your home - and adding mirrors to your design scheme is one of them. I'm not just referring to wall hung mirrors - although they are always beautiful - but introducing strategically placed mirrored surfaces in your foyer, kitchen, bath, living room, dining room or bedroom. Reflective surfaces brighten a space and create that extra layer of sparkle and texture, at the same time visually increasing a sense of space. Here are some stunning ideas for adding that spectacular look to your room.

Kitchens. Add some instant light and reflection in your kitchen with a mirrored backsplash. Do you have a killer view of the ocean or a spectacular English garden? What better way than to highlight it and integrate the interior with the exterior for a panoramic view. For added texture apply either glass or mirrored mosaic tiles to the backsplash and you'll still achieve that shimmer and shine.Incorporating mirrors into your interior design plans is an easy way to add light, space and airiness to your room . For larger rooms, it adds a new dimension to the space. Play around with different mirror shapes and reflective surfaces. I know you'll find the perfect solution to spicing up the ambiance of every room in your house.Living Rooms. In a more traditional home, apply mirrored sections on the walls within framed moldings and paneling for a crisp classic style - enhancing your furniture and creating a bright beautiful space. For a more contemporary flair introduce a crisp and cool fireplace surround to double the glow of the fire when lit. Beveled mirrors or tiles with glass rosette insets provide for a more traditional style. Free standing glass screens will definitely add some drama along with a mirror mounted over a mirrored surface to provide you with a greater sense of detail and depth.Bedrooms. Whether you have a built in closet or a French wardrobe, mirror your closet doors to expand the light and space - providing your space with a sense of elegance. Introducing mirrored nightstands adds instant glamour to your storage.Foyers. Mirroring the adjacent wall to the entry with a large over-sized frame will transform a dark and dingy foyer into a bright and spectacular space. Or take it a step further and adhere some beveled-mirrored tiles to the entire wall with a beautiful glass chandelier suspended from above. If large mirrors aren't for you then consider a mirrored chest at the entry with your favorite piece of art above highlighted with a crystal or glass table lamp and finished with an exquisite arrangement of fresh flowers.

Incorporating mirrors into your interior design plans is an easy way to add light, space and airiness to your room . For larger rooms, it adds a new dimension to the space. Play around with different mirror shapes and reflective surfaces. I know you'll find the perfect solution to spicing up the ambiance of every room in your house.

Five Easy Ways to Give Your Kitchen Designer Wow!

A beautiful kitchen is the heart of any home (even for those of us who spend most of our cooking time around the microwave!) Time spent together in the kitchen can bring a family closer together and make wonderful memories (although my own memories of doing dishes as a teenager are less than pleasant - something about dishwater being *disgusting!*) Turning your plain kitchen into something special isn*t as hard as you might think. Here are a few simple ideas which can make your kitchen a designer showcase.

3. Want to update your backsplash? Use beadboard! Have your local home improvement store cut it to length and attach with nails or adhesive.2. To add a little flair, take out a few drawers and insert low baskets in their place. You will probably have to remove the middle drawer slide or side slides, but that is easily done with a screwdriver.5. Update your cabinets with special memories. Attach frames painted or stained to match the cabinets to the front of each door. Fill the frames with family photos or your children*s artwork. Or highlight a special collection such as vintage handkerchiefs or postcards.4. Tired cabinet doors? Cut out the middle of the doors, leaving a two inch edge all around. Stale fabric panels to the back of the doors. Cover the staples with fabric trim glued with a hot glue gun. You can use any fabric from elegant to country, stripes to plaid, or gingham to quilted.Try one of these ideas or use them to jumpstart your own creative imagination. Remember, there is a designer in each of you! It*s just very well hidden in some - VERY well hidden!

Try one of these ideas or use them to jumpstart your own creative imagination. Remember, there is a designer in each of you! It*s just very well hidden in some - VERY well hidden!

Chef Central: home cooks mean serious business

Custom home owners are more dedicated to fine cooking than ever before. Many no longer think of preparing a meal as a chore, but as a luxury to which they devote considerable time and money. And to create beautiful, great-tasting food, they need well-planned, personalized kitchens, like the ones on the following pages. As these kitchens demonstrate, builders, architects, designers, and their clients are researching exotic woods to find one-of-a-kind textures and colors. They're borrowing ideas from restaurant kitchens and designating specialized prep centers and stations. They're coming up with clever ways to create storage, often designing caterers' kitchens and butler's pantries. They're using metal in interesting ways, most frequently as countertops and backsplashes. And, as always, they're placing top priority on making the kitchen open to the rest of the house and the outdoors.

Crowd ControlThis Napa Valley, Calif., wine country kitchen represents the culmination of designer Fu-Tung Cheng's 20 years of experience. It's stuffed full of ideas about materials, space, and efficiency, all working to enhance the owner's gourmet lifestyle. "Cooking is the owner's avocation--it's his form of creativity and entertainment," says Cheng. So the room's island holds a range, built-in wok, grill, and deep fryer. Three strategically placed sinks--one for making beverages, one for food prep, and one for cleanup--serve three different purposes, and three dishwashers ensure there's never a backup of dirty dishes. ** Because of the house's overall architecture (the rammed-earth, wood, and glass structure designed by Seattle firm Cutler Anderson Architects has a massive, organic feel) Cheng needed to make sure the kitchen left an equally strong, solid impression. The hefty island and some walls and counters consist of Geocrete, his proprietary line of custom concrete infused with fossils, auto transmission parts, and other found objects. "It's like looking for antiques," he says of his fossil-finding process. "I go to rock shows, rock stores, and now sometimes the Internet." A 10-foot-long range hood, also designed by Cheng, rids the space of extra odors and heat. The kitchen is featured in the book Concrete at Home (The Taunton Press, 2005) by Fu-Tung Cheng with Eric Olsen.* Details Sliding pocket doors open the kitchen to the home's central courtyard, taking advantage of San Diego's perfect weather. Radiant heat under gold Jerusalem limestone tiles keeps the outdoor room toasty underfoot. And continuing the same floor material in the kitchen helps tie the two spaces together.Past and PresentBalinese buildings and Japanese tansu chests served as design motifs for this remodeled Del Mar, Calif., kitchen. Architect Wendy Von Kalinowski and builder Brian Beesan worked closely with the owners to incorporate lush, exotic woods like Hawaiian koa and rosewood. Wrought-iron fittings continue the Indonesian/Asian influence, while honed black granite counters complement the rich woods. According to the clients' wishes, Von Kalinowski created a plan that facilitates cooking and entertaining, with a long mahogany table that slides out from under the island when more space is needed. A wood-burning masonry fireplace adds to the relaxed ambience, while three skylights let in plenty of natural light. ** Because of all the ventilation in the kitchen--pocket doors, large operable windows over the sink, a ceiling fan, and a ceiling vent--the clients and Von Kalinowski decided to leave out the range hood they'd originally planned. "The hood would have detracted from the other elements," says Von Kalinowski. "The clients wanted to be able to see out the big window over the sink." Now they have their choice of views--the palm trees outside that window, or the shady oasis of the courtyard.Project Credits: Builder: Crown Construction, Chicago; Architect: Wheeler Kearns Architects, Chicago; Project size: 600 square feet (includes dining room and sitting room); Construction cost: Withheld; Photographer: Alan Shortall Photography. ** Resources: Cooktop: Thermador, Circle 482; Dishwasher: Miele, Circle 483; Disposal: Kitchen Aid, Circle 484; Oven: Dacor, Circle 485; Vent: Thermador, Circle 486; Wine refrigerator: Kitchen Aid, Circle 487.** Details Designer Fu-Tung Cheng selected bamboo cabinetry and flooring for its beauty, durability, and sustainability. "In a span of 5, 10, or 15 years, you can grow a full forest of bamboo," he says. "Its hardness quotient falls somewhere between that of oak and maple."Interior designer Elizabeth Rosensteel's clients for this Phoenix kitchen have five teenage children. That alone constitutes a fairly large group to feed, but when you factor in the probability of each child bringing friends over, the number of people in the space at any one time gets even bigger. "The kitchen is the family center," says Rosensteel. "There had to be workability for feeding the masses." ** So she designed three eating areas into the room--a custom dining table that seats eight, and two peninsulas with three seats apiece. A commercial-style walk-in refrigerator/freezer holds the quantity of perishables a family this size requires. "We found we could accommodate the insulation better by going from the refrigerator directly into the freezer," says Rosensteel. Another refrigerator in the main kitchen space supplements the walk-in, holding items the family uses every day. Two ovens occupy separate areas so that different cooking and baking projects can take place at the same time. ** With so many people using the kitchen, the owners didn't want to have to spend all their time cleaning it up. Many of the surfaces are coated with an automotive-like paint that doesn't show fingerprints easily, and multi-hued granite counters were chosen for the same reason.Eastern ElementsUltimate ExpressionRemodeling a historic residence takes a lot of soul searching. At some point the project needs to either follow the stylistic template set by the original building, or break away and follow its own path. The owners of this grand 1920s Chicago condominium decided on the latter, with harmonious results. Their apartment featured a small, cramped kitchen that felt cut off from the rooms around it. They asked Wheeler Kearns Architects to open up the kitchen to the dining and sitting areas, allowing light and views to flow unimpeded through the space. "They wanted to make those rooms a contrast to the front of the unit," says project architect Joy Meek. ** So Meek and principal in charge Dan Wheeler abandoned the elaborate molding that characterizes the rest of the apartment for a sleeker look--stainless steel counters, cherry cabinetry, poured concrete floors, and new contemporary windows. The stainless-steel cased beam running above the island conceals mechanicals, and it provides a handy place for down- and up-lighting. The extra illumination is necessary, since the space isn't just for socializing. The island's hard-working north side contains a dishwasher, wine refrigerator, microwave, and warming drawer, all of which supplement the refrigerator, range, and oven on the same side of the room. One person preparing a meat can converse with guests or family members sitting on the opposite side of the island without compromising his or her work space. And the kitchen segues straight into the dining room on one end and sitting area on the other--a very modern idea indeed.Project Credits: Builder: Brian Beesan Construction, Solana Beach, Calif.; Architect: Von Kalinowski Design & Associates, La Jolla, Calif.; Project size: 560 square feet; Construction cost: Withheld; Photographer: Hewitt/Garrison Photography. ** Resources: Bar sink: Elkay, Circle 450; Dishwasher/range/refrigerator: Viking, Circle 451; Faucet: Grohe, Circle 452; Refrigerator drawers: Sub-Zero, Circle 453; Warming drawers: Dacor, Circle 454.

Interior designer Elizabeth Rosensteel's clients for this Phoenix kitchen have five teenage children. That alone constitutes a fairly large group to feed, but when you factor in the probability of each child bringing friends over, the number of people in the space at any one time gets even bigger. "The kitchen is the family center," says Rosensteel. "There had to be workability for feeding the masses." ** So she designed three eating areas into the room--a custom dining table that seats eight, and two peninsulas with three seats apiece. A commercial-style walk-in refrigerator/freezer holds the quantity of perishables a family this size requires. "We found we could accommodate the insulation better by going from the refrigerator directly into the freezer," says Rosensteel. Another refrigerator in the main kitchen space supplements the walk-in, holding items the family uses every day. Two ovens occupy separate areas so that different cooking and baking projects can take place at the same time. ** With so many people using the kitchen, the owners didn't want to have to spend all their time cleaning it up. Many of the surfaces are coated with an automotive-like paint that doesn't show fingerprints easily, and multi-hued granite counters were chosen for the same reason.

Clean sweep

With its strong horizontal lines and clean details, the 18-foot-long kitchen in a renovated Washington, D.C., row house is minimalist without appearing ultramodern. Even a backsplash was deemed gratuitous; the aluminum window sits right on the countertop, which in turn slips between cabinetry under the microwave. "We liked the idea of the horizontal plane of counter not being stopped and connecting to the outside," architect Janet Bloomberg says.

Builder: Madden Corp., Rockville, Md.; Architect: KUBE Architecture, Washington, D.C.; Photographer: Alan Karchmer. * Resources: Cabinets: Burger Custom Cabinets, Circle 175; Countertops: Concrete Jungle, Circle 176; Dishwasher/oven: KitchenAid, Circle 177; interior doors: Raydoor, Circle 178; Kitchen fittings/fixtures: Grohe, Circle 179; Lighting: Illuminations Inc., Circle 180 and W.A.C. Lighting, Circle 181; Paints: Duron, Circle 182; Patio doors: NanaWall Systems, Circle 183; Refrigerator: Sub-Zero, Circle 184; Sinks: Blanco America, Circle 185; Windows: Sherwood Windows, Circle 186.A cooking area to the left as you enter the kitchen now occupies the former powder room, which was moved to the stair landing. At the far end is a square bar sink and compact computer space with a fiat-screen monitor mounted beneath wall cabinets. And an existing 4-foot-by-4-foot pantry is hidden behind a full-height cabinetry door. "We wanted to keep everything very flush to make it look neat and clean, which is what the clients wanted," Bloomberg says. The result is an unabashedly 21st-century work space, one with enough texture and warmth to span two time periods.--Cheryl Weber

Builder: Madden Corp., Rockville, Md.; Architect: KUBE Architecture, Washington, D.C.; Photographer: Alan Karchmer. * Resources: Cabinets: Burger Custom Cabinets, Circle 175; Countertops: Concrete Jungle, Circle 176; Dishwasher/oven: KitchenAid, Circle 177; interior doors: Raydoor, Circle 178; Kitchen fittings/fixtures: Grohe, Circle 179; Lighting: Illuminations Inc., Circle 180 and W.A.C. Lighting, Circle 181; Paints: Duron, Circle 182; Patio doors: NanaWall Systems, Circle 183; Refrigerator: Sub-Zero, Circle 184; Sinks: Blanco America, Circle 185; Windows: Sherwood Windows, Circle 186.

HGTV KitchenDesign Broadband Channel Announces Two New Exclusive Web Series

"8 Fresh Ideas for Kitchen Backsplashes" and "Getting Started - 10 Steps to a New Kitchen" Celebrate Kitchen & Bath Month

* Household objects: A 3-D collage made with favorite objects such as silverware and shells can create a multi-dimensional backsplash that has individuality and flair.Scripps Networks Interactive7. ABCs of Appliances* Broken or abandoned china: Even if it is no longer of service on the table, china can become a serviceable and spunky mosaic backsplash.With the launch of these two exclusive Web series, HGTV KitchenDesign (http://design.hgtv.com/kitchen/) is further cemented as one of the deepest, richest broadband resources in the lifestyle category today. In addition to more than 450 videos, the site features a comprehensive suite of interactive tools such as an online designer that helps create floor plans and set up appliances.8 Fresh Ideas for Kitchen Backsplashes"8 Fresh Ideas for Kitchen Backsplashes" features fresh and funky ideas from celebrity designer Scott Sicari to update this kitchen mainstay. "Backsplashes" has consistently ranked among the top search terms since HGTV KitchenDesign launched in January 2006. The eight Webisodes include using innovative materials such as:1. Find Inspiration2. Plan Your BudgetThe dynamic Web sites created and supported by Scripps Networks Interactive attracted an average of more than 12 million unique visitors per month in 2005, a growth of nearly 30 percent from the previous year. The Scripps Networks Interactive Web sites - www.HGTV.com, www.FoodNetwork.com, www.DIYnetwork.com, www.FineLiving.com and www.GACTV.com - along with broadband channels - HGTV Pro, HGTV KitchenDesign, HGTV BathDesign and DIY Woodworking - are not only extensions of Scripps Networks leading lifestyle brands, providing users programming information and additional instructional content, but also exciting destinations for original content, engaging video and powerful interactive tools.9. Sinks with Style and Utility3. Choose a Contractor6. Cabinets - Replace or Reface8. Counter Surfaces5. Find the Right Flooring* Magnetic laminate: Funky magnets aren't just for the fridge! Installing magnetic laminate makes a backsplash that can change with your mood.Getting Started - 10 Steps to a New Kitchen4. Create an Efficient Layout10. The Right Light Makes it CompleteIn "Getting Started - 10 Steps to a New Kitchen," host Lise Simms offers a beginner's guide to kitchen remodeling, with easy tips that help inexperienced homeowners make their kitchen the heart of the home. Each Webisode concentrates on one of the 10 steps:

The dynamic Web sites created and supported by Scripps Networks Interactive attracted an average of more than 12 million unique visitors per month in 2005, a growth of nearly 30 percent from the previous year. The Scripps Networks Interactive Web sites - www.HGTV.com, www.FoodNetwork.com, www.DIYnetwork.com, www.FineLiving.com and www.GACTV.com - along with broadband channels - HGTV Pro, HGTV KitchenDesign, HGTV BathDesign and DIY Woodworking - are not only extensions of Scripps Networks leading lifestyle brands, providing users programming information and additional instructional content, but also exciting destinations for original content, engaging video and powerful interactive tools.

How to Use Decorative Concrete in a Traditional Kitchen

Concrete's use in kitchens and bathrooms may still be considered relatively "modern" design-wise by the standard homeowner. But while concrete can be used to create a modern or minimal look, it's also perfectly adaptable to a more traditional setting � where it was so extensively used in the first place.

Now I wouldn't want to use all of the above accents � just enough to carry a complementary flavor to the Craftsman look and feel. The concrete itself is earthy enough to carry that load. It's up to you as a homeowner or designer to add the touch that personalizes and enhances the piece. In some cases, for instance, the overwrought "traditional English manor" kitchen, usually full of elaborate detailing, can use a touch of restraint � the concrete counter with a simple ogee edge detail and a complementary white porcelain farm sink might just be perfect.2. Keep the front face, or thickness, of the countertop at a minimum of 2-1/2" up to 5".1. Choose an earth tone color or natural gray. No bright colors.4. Recess the appropriately sized or proportioned ceramic tiles with some embossing on them into the face of the countertop or into a cast backsplash. Allow the recess to be at least 1/4" in depth.3. Inset "panels" into the front face of the countertop to reflect the cabinet doors. These panels would be no deeper than 3/8" and would measure approximately 1/3" to the height of the front face, orLet�s take a turn-of-century "Craftsman" style kitchen for a hypothetical example. The cabinets would most likely be frame-and-panel with flush inlay doorframes. There would be wood wainscoting in the dining area and perhaps tile around a single porcelain sink. The lighting fixtures might have beveled glass or echoes of Tiffany lamps. What concrete application would be appropriate in this situation? I would look into one or more of the following ideas in combination:Concrete can act as a substitute for more traditional materials. Rather than just using concrete to explicitly re-create something from the past, you can also combine it with other elements to suggest a timeless quality. In my work, I always strive to strike a balance between innovation and emotion, between spare contemporary and warm traditional. Adding mosaic tile along the front edge of a concrete surface, inlaying bits of tile along a backsplash, or even embedding a fossil in a countertop all connect us to the past.As they say, it's all in the details.5. Mosaic tiles in groups of four separated by 1/8"-1/4" spacing could be placed on the countertop surface as inlaid "trivets" next to the stove burners. (In the mold, they would be placed face down on the bottom of the form.)6. Line the drain board into the sink with tile or marble.

As they say, it's all in the details.

Remodeling Your Home On A Budget

If you've lived in your home any length of time, you probably have considered doing some remodeling. In fact, the National Association of Home Builders estimates that we will spend nearly $240 billion over the next year in remodeling projects. That's a lot of paint (not to mention nails, screws, plywood, tile, etc.)!

3. Go outside. A new barbecue grill can liven up the forgotten square footage of your home.1. Add a new backsplash in the kitchen. This can make you kitchen have a new look for a minimum investment.5. Make-over you closets. Lots of kits and ideas are available at your local retailer.4. Add or change lighting. A lighting professional can give some great ideas here.A recent article published in PARADE suggested 5 quick, easy, and cheap ideas for giving your house that look of a major remodeling:These are just a few of the many ideas which you can implement to give your home a remodeled look. By taking the time to visit a few of the local retailers (box stores and specialty stores), you can come up with some great ideas. Also, a visit to your local home show is a great source for generating ideas. And, more ideas can be found at http://www.fhhome.com.Naturally, doing the project yourself will save additional money. If you or someone in your household has the time, energy and talent to tackle the job, great. If you need additional tools (tile cutters, paint sprayers, etc.) be sure to check with your local store which may have tools and equipment to rent. Some of these outlets also offer seminars and classes which can be very helpful in giving you the confidence to tackle your project yourself.2. Add glass in the bathroom. It creates a look of more space by opening up the tub/shower area.But if you are not a do-it-your-self type of person, consider hiring a contractor who specializes in small jobs. A good contractor can also be a great source for new ideas. Enjoy your newly remodeled home!

But if you are not a do-it-your-self type of person, consider hiring a contractor who specializes in small jobs. A good contractor can also be a great source for new ideas. Enjoy your newly remodeled home!

Pro to Pro

Discussion forum for kitchen & both professionals

It is bothering me because I feel like I am being undermined. Near the end of the last meeting the friend asked me, "How long have you been doing this?" She had her eyebrows raised. My credentials and portfolio were presented at the first meeting so I have to feel it was a jab. Midway through the meeting, she said to the homeowner, "I thought you were going to do this and I thought you were going to do that," and I said, "And just where are you getting the space to put all of those cabinets?"-jelkelkitchen-KarHBACKSPLASH COSTSSHOWROOM DISPLAYSI, too, have been in a similar situation! As tactfully as you can, you need to ask the client who will be living and working in this kitchen. How does "she" cook, wash, clean and use her kitchen? Ultimately, this can lead to a better overall relationship.I think with ceramic tile, you have to mark it up to make any profit on the job at all. Designs can be quite time consuming, and you need to be paid for the work you are putting in!I am very curious about how others charge for designing tile backsplashes. Can someone offer any suggestions?RESPONSE 1-susan27At least the second decision-maker is there with you two. I have, on several occasions, had to ask a client to bring in the third party - as in, if this person is going to be at the table (and have influence on the decisions made), so to speak, then he or she had better be at the table participating in the process, rather than second guessing us later.We are selling one of our kitchen displays. I just put a sign there with the retail price so that people can see the difference. Some people get intrigued by that approach. The problem is that the display may not fit into their home. Beyond that, once they get a price for the add-on items, they may lose their interest.There is a situation that has developed that I would appreciate some insight on from fellow designers.I'll tell you what I do, but you may not like it very much. I will charge 25 percent above and beyond the retail price, and then I keep whatever discount I get. I will also mark up the labor to a degree.I sell it on the basis of all the work being done, including the shopping, design, ordering, checking tile and supervision.-sks05-crazycabs-MCRWhat is the best way to advertise and sell a showroom display that you need to switch out?Another reason why we like this setup is because there is not much money in tile, and this way our customers are happy and we still maintain control over the project. In addition to that, we don't have to spend precious hours worrying about designing the perfect tile backsplash.In my opinion, it seems to benefit everyone because the customer gets a better price, the showroom sells tile and we are not responsible for any tile ordering!Usually we ballpark backsplash costing to about $2,500 depending on the cost of the tile and pattern (including installation). They can often sell for $2,200-$6,000 depending on the complexity of the work. We [get around it] by funneling our customers to our tile distributors' showrooms. The tile designers there are usually fabulous - not only at layout but also at upselling highly priced trim and other decorative stuff.I think you're working with one of my clients!It is a closet system if that makes any difference. Any ideas that you can offer me would be greatly appreciated.I think you may have a tougher road than I did. I can be a bit confrontational. I think I would ask why she said something derogatory, in a curious, but respectful way, and if there are any issues she is uncomfortable about regarding the process. Others would advise not to speak up, but if I were constantly berated, I think I'd speak up. I hope that doesn't happen and that it's just an isolated incident.RESPONSE 3In the end, the total cost for the project included the tile, and about another $1,000 to $1,500 for installation and labor.It's really worked out for us because as long as we buy the tile from the distributor, there is no charge for that service.QUESTIONPart of me feels that the closet will be easier to sell since people don't really need more stuff.In my case, it is the same thing. Her best friend is in on every single decision, no matter how large or how small. I even printed a set of plans for her and she was there at the contract signing (however I didn't give her a copy of the contract). I have had all the same thoughts as you are having about your situation.I have on occasion asked the client, privately on the phone, how much involvement she wants her friend to have. You can be direct, but respectful, but also inquisitive so you understand the dynamics. There is nothing wrong with that approach and your client will appreciate it. Just tell her that you want to understand what she wants for her project.At the first meeting, I thought they were domestic partners, but then one day the husband and daughter came home so it truly is a best friend joined at the hip thing.I have met with a new client three times. She has paid me a retainer to design her kitchen, and each time I meet with her in her home, her best friend is at the meeting. Sometimes she even answers the questions I ask that are directed specifically to the homeowner!If you want it, I suggest that you take it!There seems to be little room to mark up tile given the small discounts offered by most high-end manufacturers. Right now, if someone contracts for cabinets, I will do a backsplash design and mark up the tile to list price. Even then, there is so much room for error and little profit potential at the same time. Does anyone have any ideas in regard to this situation?Asking how long you're doing this, however, is not a way to get along well, so my advice is to ignore things like that, ask her friend what she thinks, then you ask the client, but sort of look back and forth at them. That way the client will feel included and her friend will feel good, too. Definitely give her "smiling attention."RESPONSE 4We typically charge installation prices based on square footage, which usually falls in the $1,500 to $2,000 range. Then we send our customers to our tile showroom with wall drawings, and they purchase the tile using our contractor discount.In my case, I must say that the best friend is lovely. She asks questions, gives her opinion, but her "way" is very sensitive to both me and her friend. My vibe toward her has always been very welcoming, so maybe that has made a slight difference. If your vibe is somewhat negative, that could make a difference in your case, so I'd look at that as a possible contentious situation.Can anyone offer any advice on how to handle this situation? I think that I am pretty diplomatic, but I am also feeling really uncomfortable and a little troubled about this scenario. Thanks for any insight you can provide to me.I have worked for design/build companies that have charged [quite a bit] for the tile and labor. The final cost was somewhere between $750 and $1,000, but this was for very small kitchens.-jengHave a question and looking for feedback from industry peers? This month KBDN listens in on dialogue between industry professionals as excerpted from the KitchenBathPros.com online Design Discussion Forum.RESPONSE 2CLIENT RELATIONSI thought I was being very friendly and open to her input. I even commented on how well she must know the client and how hearing her perspective on the way the homeowner entertains, etc. was helpful when I did the measurements and surveys at the second meeting. I suppose that is why I was quite taken back by her attitude toward me at the meeting where I presented my concepts. She just did her kitchen last year and perhaps she feels that makes her an expert, but she was suggesting cabinets on walls that were not suitable for cabinets, and I offered my reaction. Overall, I need to let it run off my back and proceed as I normally would do.

Part of me feels that the closet will be easier to sell since people don't really need more stuff.