4 Home Renovation Projects That Don't Increase Your Resale Value

While any home renovation project that adds value to your way of living is worth the investment, some projects may not be worth the money if your goal is to add resale value. Some of these projects might be priceless to certain homeowners; however, if you plan on moving within the next few years we recommend skipping these updates.

State of the Art Kitchen Remodel

While kitchens are typically one of the most sought after home renovation projects, overdoing it can cost you. Commercial grade appliances and top of the line countertops and tiles may be appealing, but too much of it can detract potential buyers. Selecting finishes and appliances that appeal to a broader range of people will give you more bang for your buck.

Photo: Instawares Restaurant Blog

A Sunroom Addition

While many potential buyers may yearn over the thought of a sunroom, these window-filled rooms can increase the cost of your heating and cooling bills. As you may know, windows are not the best insulators. This means that a sunroom addition would raise energy costs in the summer and winter months, which can be a turn off for buyers. However, this may not be the case if you live in an area or neighborhood with houses that typically have sunrooms.

Extensive Landscaping and Flowers

A home can look much more inviting by keeping a well manicured lawn and maintained siding and windows. Complete the look by including some tasteful landscaping; however, don't go overboard. A tropical oasis in your backyard may "wow" any guests that comes through, but at the same time this can overwhelm some buyers. When it comes to landscaping, less is often more. This includes a few flowering shrubs, a flagstone walkway, a couple of planters, and fresh mulch.

A Custom Home Office

We understand the need for a separate home office space for those who work from home; however, most homeowners can agree that a separate room for a home office is unnecessary. Plus, technology is constantly changing. Thus, investing in advanced wiring and custom home components (such as built-ins for computers, printers, and the like) is not the wisest investment for your money. A simple desk and desk chair set up will do.

Photo: Furniture Design Gallery

Kitchen Design Trend: Blue Cabinets

Blue cabinets have been making a scene in kitchen designs recently. If you love the look of painted cabinets, it might be time to give blue a try.

Photo: Houzz

For many years white kitchen (and bathroom) cabinets has taken center stage in design trends. They are well known for their clean and classic appeal. White cabinets can help to brighten any space and can even help to make a kitchen look larger. Not only can they make a space appear larger, white is a great cabinet color option since it is so versatile. White cabinetry can complement several design styles seamlessly since it is a neutral color.

For many years, white cabinets dominated the scene. That was until a few years ago when gray became the new "it" color. Gray cabinets, like white cabinets, are neutral and can work well with many designs. Gray especially works for cabinet colors since wood cabinets are an otherwise "warm" material. The color also saw a huge jump in popularity since it works with almost any color scheme. However, if gray is not incorporated correctly it come across as "sterile" and "lifeless."

Fortunately, there is a new cabinet color trend in the design world: blue. Blue is a breath of fresh air compared to the neutral whites and grays. Blue cabinets can go well with practically any design style-from traditional, to farmhouse, to modern. They also add a sense of calm to any space. We predict that part of the reason why blue cabinets are increasing in popularity is because blue is an extremely versatile color. Blue hues range from navy, periwinkle, turquoise, sky blue, robin's egg, and blue-gray.

Photo: Pinterest

To avoid overloading your kitchen with too much color, you can always include the hue in designated areas. For example, you can include a bright blue cabinet for the kitchen island and choose a traditional color for the wall cabinets. A more modern option would be to include the blue color for the lower cabinets and include open shelves in place of the upper cabinets. This helps to lighten up any space and keeps any space from being too overwhelmed by a particular color.

Even though blue cabinets are a relatively new design trend, we hope that they stick around for a while. What do you think about the new color trend?

Are Waterfall Countertops Just a Fad?

While they originated in ultra modern designs, waterfall countertops are rising in popularity in several design styles these days. They give off a sleek, clean, and contemporary appearance. However, are waterfall countertops just the latest trend? Or do we think they will stick around for a few years to come?

Photo: DecorPad

Waterfall countertops can work beautifully on both kitchen islands and on a peninsula. Some homeowners may choose to include waterfall countertops to protect wood countertops and help to hide appliances. They work extremely well in high traffic areas since they are typically easy to clean and are more durable than cabinets; thus, they can withstand constant bumps and dings.

We recommend including waterfall countertops in larger kitchens, or kitchens with an open concept. The extra slab of countertop material may be overwhelming to small, enclosed spaces. Additionally, a dark colored waterfall countertop can make the room feel heavy, which is why many homeowners choose a lighter color-such as a bright white or a warm beige.

When choosing a material for a waterfall countertop, durability is a huge concern. Try to pick a durable material, such as granite or quartz. Choosing between a solid color slab versus one with more speckles and veining is up to you. Keep in mind that waterfall countertops tend to serve as a focal point in the room, so choose a texture that you love and won't be too overwhelming to your space.

Photo: Pinterest

Another factor you should consider about waterfall countertops on kitchen islands is the enclosed seating underneath. Since the "waterfall" section is the same width as the countertop, there will be extra material at the end of the seating area of your island. For those who love to entertain and are looking to include as much seating as possible, a waterfall countertop may not be the best option. Foregoing a waterfall countertop will allow you to squeeze in one or two more seats when there are a lot of guests over.

If you plan on selling your home in the near future, you may not want to include this trend. While some love the look of waterfall countertops, others may not be a huge fan. When remodeling a kitchen for resell, it is best to choose timeless finishes and materials to avoid turning away any potential buyers.

Having a waterfall countertop will help to create a clean, updated look to any kitchen remodel or renovation. While they may be one of the last trends right now, who knows-they may turn out to be a timeless staple in kitchen design. If you love waterfall countertops, add it to your kitchen! Your kitchen should be a place that you love spending time in. When planning a kitchen remodel, try not to get too caught up in what's in and what's out and choose pieces that you love.

Kitchen Remodel Tips to Help You Achieve Your Dream Kitchen

When assessing their home for upgrades, many homeowners hope to remodel their kitchen to create an open and inviting space. As you may have noticed, kitchens are not only used for cooking; kitchens have evolved to be part of the main entertaining space in the home. When planning a kitchen remodel, it is always helpful to look at ideas to help you get an idea of what you want. Here are some kitchen remodel tips:

Custom Kitchen Remodel by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

Planning the Kitchen Layout

Typically, one of the first steps when planning a kitchen remodel is deciding on the kitchen layout. It is important to create enough space between walkways and high-traffic areas. In cooking zones, there should be 42 inches of space for a one-cook configuration and 48 inches for a two-cook configuration. Another important tip when choosing your kitchen layout is to be mindful of the location of your cabinetry, appliances, and how the two interact. You don't want to open a cabinet door to find out that it bangs into an appliance, or another cabinet, and ending up with damaged materials.

Choosing the Appliances

When planning the location of your appliances, try to avoid installing the cooktop in the island. It can be a hazard, especially for homeowners with kids. Additionally, it may be a good idea to have the refrigerator installed near the edge of the main cooking area (such as on the end of a row of cabinets). That way, the cook can easily access ingredients in the refrigerator, while a passer-by can also access the refrigerator for snacks or drinks without disrupting the cook.

Planning for Ample Countertop Space

Account for lots of countertop space. Countertop space is essential for prepping food, storing small appliances, and setting down miscellaneous items. One area of the kitchen that should have countertop space on either side is the cooktop. The landing space around this area is priceless while cooking. Another area that would benefit by having extra countertop space would be the microwave.

Deciding on Cabinetry

In a kitchen, there are many items that need to be stored away, which is why organization is a must-have. We recommend including some cabinet organization. Some good ideas for in-cabinet organization would be a knife drawer, a recycling bin, and racks for pots and pans.

In addition, avoid weighing down the room with an overabundance of cabinetry by mixing up cabinet details. For example, you can replace a regular wall cabinet with a couple of open shelves to show off your prettiest glassware. However, if you still need as much cabinet space as possible, try including some glass panels in your cabinets to make the room appear lighter.

Choosing the Finishing Touches

On a budget? Before you get too discouraged about not being able to include your dream materials or finishes, know that it is possible to include some high-end pieces while staying on a budget. We recommend choosing one or two high-end items, such as tiles for your backsplash or a range-hood that you love. Then, you can use these items as your focal points. Stick to the budget by saving money on your countertops, cabinetry, and other materials.

Kitchens are often considered the heart of the home, and the center for entertaining with family and friends. Before you invest in a complete kitchen remodel, it is important to research what you want beforehand. You don't want to go through an entire remodel to find out that you do not absolutely love your new space. Some important elements to consider when compiling kitchen remodel tips include: layout, cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and finishing touches.

We hope that these kitchen remodel tips helped you in planning your dream kitchen. Feel free to contact Balducci Additions and Remodeling to schedule an appointment.

Love to Entertain? Consider the Microwave Combo Wall Oven

When considering a kitchen remodel, one of the most important components to consider are the appliances. Appliances range drastically in price and features. Additionally, the location of your appliances is a huge indicator of your overall cooking experience. Two appliances worth noting are the microwave and the oven.

Photo: The Home Depot

Love to entertain? Two words: Double. Ovens.

Double ovens are great appliances for the big family that enjoys entertaining together, or even the aspiring chef. A double oven is perfect for preparing a full course meal without having to re-heat side dishes or having to spend all day cooking.

While double ovens may be a huge time saver for some; for most families, a double oven will not get used quite as often. Many homeowners with a double oven often find out that the double oven is only used during holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, where there is more cooking to be done. Otherwise, one oven will typically do the trick.

Introducing the Microwave

The microwave was introduced to the market in the 1970's and created a way for people to cook food in less time. They were originally designed to be placed on the countertop. As years went on, many homeowners were hoping to free up counter space and place the microwave elsewhere.

The Microwave Gets a New Home

Some homeowners started installing microwaves over the cook top. Over the range microwaves are great since they help to centralize some of the cooking process. However, professional ranges require a stronger ventilator. According to Yale Appliance, "The average hood is 24" in depth whereas the OTR is only 16". That could be a venting issue on a more powerful range." Thus, the over the range microwave might not be adequate enough for some more powerful cook tops.

Photo: Blue Maize

Microwave Combo Wall Oven: Combining the Microwave with the Double Oven

A great alternative to an over the range microwave would be to combine the microwave and the oven. It is perfect for those who love to entertain since the cook top, oven, and microwave can be put to use at the same time. Additionally, microwave combo wall ovens typically have the ability to cook as a microwave, convection oven, or both. As a bonus: Since the microwave is now moved from above the cook top, this allows for homeowners to pick out a more eye-catching range hood to accentuate the kitchen's design style!

As you can see, the identity microwave has drastically changed over the years in our kitchens. It has gone from a staple of the counter top appliances, to a built-in add on of the oven. If you have any questions about microwave combo wall ovens, or just kitchen remodels in general, feel free to contact us or give us a call.

4 Major Components of a Kitchen Remodel

Have you been dreaming of remodeling your kitchen? Whether it be to create more space, update the look, or increase your home value, kitchen remodels are a great investment for your home. Here are 4 major components of a kitchen remodel:

1. Layout

The layout of your kitchen is one of the most, if not the most, important components of your kitchen remodel. Since kitchens often undergo so much usage, it is important that the work flow is efficient and works for your needs. Some experts say that a no-fail solution to efficient kitchens is the "work triangle." The work triangle was developed in the 1940's to examine the efficiency between the three major kitchen appliances: the refrigerator, sink, and stove. The "work triangle" is a great tool to use when planning your kitchen layout.

Kitchen Work Triangle

2. Materials and Finishes

The materials and finishes you choose will largely depend on your budget and personal preferences. Some major decisions that need to be made for a kitchen remodel include: countertop material, cabinetry, and flooring. Material options can dramatically range in prices, so it is important to do your research on each option. Some popular countertop materials include granite, quartz, laminate, concrete, and marble. Flooring options range from ceramic tile, hardwood, linoleum, vinyl, among many others. Cabinets are also available in a wide range of materials including: solid wood, plywood panel, aluminum, wood veneer, and polyethylene.

3. Lighting

Kitchens require lots of light for safety when cooking. Along with adding safety to your kitchen, lights can set the tone of the whole space. Like cabinets, flooring, and countertops, there are many lighting options for your kitchen. A good option for kitchens are several can lights, pendant lights over a bar/breakfast bar area, and under-cabinet lighting. Lighting is also a good way to make some energy-efficient choices through choosing LED or fluorescent bulbs.

4. Finishing Touches

Finishing touches can make or break a space. Some finishing touches to keep in mind are: paint color, seating options, backsplash, as well as other decorative items. A good rule of thumb is to contrast your cabinet color with your paint color to add some dimension to your space. For example, a dark paint color paired with dark cabinetry could leave the room feeling too dark. Create the illusion of more light by choosing a lighter color. The same concept applies to your backsplash. Your backsplash should contrast with your cabinet and countertop, as well as add visual interest to the space. Don't be afraid to steer from subway tiles and choose a more decorative option. The finishing touches of the space are a great way to let your personality shine through.

Custom Kitchen Remodel by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

There are many factors that have to be considered in a kitchen remodel, including: layout, materials, lighting, and the finishing touches. A kitchen remodel can be an overwhelming and stressful project if it is not planned out, which is why it is important to get a professional's opinion and guidance. If you are considering a kitchen remodel for your home, feel free to call Balducci Additions and Remodeling to schedule a no-obligation appointment.

Contrasting Kitchen Island

Kitchen islands can be a huge benefit for any kitchen. They add extra counter space and storage, and can provide some additional seating. In addition, they can add some extra style to your space through your choice of cabinet color, cabinet style, and overall design choice. Don’t feel as though you need to match your kitchen design to your kitchen island to the “t.” One of the design trends that we saw emerge in 2016, and is expecting to stick around well into 2017, is a contrasting kitchen island.

Contrasting kitchen island in this recent kitchen renovation by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

Contrasting kitchen islands help to keep a kitchen from looking to sterile and repetitive. They add dimension and visual interest to the space. The contrasting kitchen island look can be achieved by contrasting the kitchen cabinet colors with the island, contrasting the kitchen countertop colors with the island, or a contrast of both.

A contrasting kitchen island can be perfect for a kitchen renovation because it can:

1. Add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral kitchen remodel. White kitchens continue to be a huge style trend into 2017. To keep them from looking too sterile, a contrasting kitchen island is perfect since it adds interest, warmth, and vibrancy to an otherwise cold room.
2. Add warmth to the space by incorporating natural wood hues to contrast with painted cabinetry. We love the look of adding in a wood kitchen island to contrast with white cabinetry!
3. Add dimension to an otherwise “static” kitchen renovation by adding in a kitchen island with a completely different style from the rest of the kitchen. For example, don’t be afraid to mix an industrial style island with an otherwise traditional kitchen. The clean lines of the kitchen island will perfectly contrast with the intricate designs of the rest of the cabinetry.

Our company recently completed a farmhouse inspired kitchen renovation that blew us away. The surrounding cabinetry was outfitted in white and was paired with a light beige granite countertop. To add dimension, we included an island with cherry cabinetry. The granite countertops continued into the island to add continuity to the space. Overall, we love the kitchen remodel and hope to complete more kitchen remodeling jobs with contrasting islands.

Contrasting kitchen island in this recent kitchen renovation by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

Need help coming up with some fresh ideas for your kitchen remodel? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would love to schedule an appointment to get started on the first phase of your kitchen renovation in the Richmond, Virginia area.

Richmond, VA: Kitchen and Master Bath Remodel

Our company recently completed this kitchen and master bathroom remodel in Richmond, Virginia. The homeowners wanted to update their 1980’s home . When we first met the with homeowners, we learned that they had been looking at building a new home since their home was outdated and no longer served their needs. Luckily for us, the plan to build a new home fell through since the homeowners loved their current home’s location. Instead of moving, they decided to have their kitchen and master bathroom remodeled into a place for them to enjoy.

Before Photo of Kitchen

Before Photo of Kitchen

The kitchen was once tiny and cramped. It had the typical 80’s laminate cabinets and white appliances. Additionally, the space felt very separate from the dining room. Thus, we remodeled the kitchen to make it more open by taking down the load bearing wall between the kitchen and dining room and adding in a structural support beam.

Before Bump Out Addition

After Bump Out Addition

We also added in a tiny bump-out addition to the right of the cabinetry on the back wall to allow for a wine chiller, TV stand, and extra cabinet space. Although the addition was small, it makes a huge impact on the space.

Glass Front Custom Cabinet

The bathroom was once dark and outdated – far from a spa-like master suite that the homeowners were dreaming of. We replaced the bath tub with a clawfoot slipper tub and added a vintage leg tub filler.

Vintage Tub Filler

Next, we updated the walk-in shower by taking down the walls that once framed the shower and added in a larger shower in its place.

Before Master Bathroom Remodel

Before Master Bathroom Remodel

We love the new bathroom cabinets in this space. The homeowner wanted white cabinets that brightened up the room and had lots of storage. We solved this by replacing the outdated vanity with a new double vanity with a center cabinet. This bathroom remodel went from a place to escape from to a place to escape to!

After Master Bathroom Remodel

After Master Bathroom Remodel

Balducci Additions and Remodeling is very pleased with the outcome of this kitchen remodel and master bathroom remodel. This project is a great reminder that you don’t have to leave your home–you can update it to match your current needs. We hope that the homeowners are happy with the outcome of these projects!

After Master Bathroom Remodel

Want to see more photos of this project? Visit our Houzz site and choose Richmond Master Bathroom and Kitchen Remodel.

5 Countertop Options You Didn't Think Of

Kitchen remodels can be exciting, yet daunting remodels due to their extensive nature and materials list. There are many material choices to be made, ranging from: flooring, cabinetry, wall color, appliances, and countertops. Today, granite and quartz are both very popular options due to their durability and beautiful aesthetics. However, don’t think that granite and quartz are your only two options for quality countertops. (To learn more about granite and quartz countertops, check out this article.) Don’t be afraid to try something new for your kitchen remodel and step outside of the box! Here are five types of countertops that you might not have considered before:

Custom wine bar installed in place of a small closet

Soapstone

Since soapstone is dense and non-porous, drops and spills can be easily wiped up and you don’t have to worry about staining. Each soapstone slab is entirely unique from the next and provides charming aesthetic. This material is non-porous and will never absorb liquids. Anyone with a soapstone countertop can choose to add mineral oil to the countertop. This creates a darker hue. In comparison, soapstone can be left alone and develop a natural patina over time. An additional bonus is that it is extremely heat resistant, so leaving warm pots and pans on the counter won’t affect the soapstone.

Copper

Copper countertops can be a beautiful option for you space since they add warmth through their rich earthy tones. A benefit of copper is that it is easy to clean and are naturally microbial. Most stains and spills can be easily wiped up and cleaned with soap and water; however, copper can be tarnished and will react to spills. This can be a benefit or a drawback since it will create an “inconsistent” look that some people prefer, while others steer away from.

Zinc

Zinc is similar to stainless steel countertops in that they share the same gray metallic coloring. Zinc is similar to copper in that it develops a patina over time since it reacts with water, fingerprints, spills, and stains. Again, this countertop may not be the right choice for perfectionists who prefer a consistent look and feel. In addition, zinc countertops are non-porous and have anti-bacterial properties that make it a good choice for food preparation.

Mineral Oil Being Applied to Butcher Block. Photo: Wikipedia

Butcher Block

Butcher block countertops are composed of thick strips of maple. oak, cherry, or walnut and are glued together to form a solid surface. Although maple, oak, cherry, and walnut are the more popular choices for countertops, almost any type of wood can be used for butcher block countertops. They also come finished or un-finished, depending on whether or not you intend on using the countertop for a cutting board or for display. Luckily, both sealed and un-sealed butcher block countertops can be refinished to reveal virtually good-as-new countertops for a small cost.

Concrete

Concrete is an extremely durable material and can withstand wear and tear without chipping or scratching. It can also be formed into any shape imaginable since it is poured. A bonus of concrete countertops is that they are also heat resistant, so setting your hot pots and pans on the counter won’t lead to warping. They can also be easily customized since they can be made in an endless possibility of colors. However, concrete countertops need to be sealed in order to protect it from heat, water, and stains.

Kitchen countertops can will affect the feel in any space. When choosing countertops for a kitchen remodel, it is important to consider style, durability, and costs when assessing what is right for your home. Kitchen countertops can take up a large portion of your budget when doing a kitchen remodel, but it can also add value to your home. Call Balducci Additions and Remodeling today for any further questions on kitchen countertops, along with any other questions regarding kitchen remodeling. We have over 30 years of experience and we would love to assist you and creating your dream kitchen. Give us a call at 804-730-0982.

Farmhouse Kitchen, Family Room, and Mud Room Remodel

Balducci Additions and Remodeling recently completed this incredible farmhouse style kitchen, family room, and mud room remodel in Glen Allen, Virginia. The clients wished to update their 1990’s home with more modern finishes. We collaborated on the designs of the space with the interior design firm, Fifth and Pink Designs, and created a traditional rustic feel. The project involved: adding in bright and cheery white cabinetry in the kitchen, installing a Cherry island, and entirely revamping their mud room.

In addition to updating the space, these clients wanted to create a space in their homes to cook and entertain for their family and friends. The space now serves as a perfect place to entertain with its open-concept layout between the dining, kitchen, and living areas. The space also comes equipped with a custom wine bar where an unused closet used to be.

Custom wine bar installed in place of a small closet

The dining area features beautiful oversized windows that allow light to flow from the eating area, to the kitchen, and into the living room. In addition, the dining area now includes a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams. The room is topped off with a rustic chandelier fixture.

Rustic chandelier fixture in the dining area

The dining area flows effortlessly into the completely reconfigured kitchen. This kitchen features white custom cabinetry, granite countertops, a gray ceramic tile backsplash, and a Cherry island. The placement of the stove and refrigerator are switched onto opposite walls and are replaced with upgraded stainless steel options. To complete this new kitchen layout, a large farmhouse style sink is put in place in the island. We love the look of the white cabinets in contrast with the dark Cherry island and we expect this trend to stick around well into 2017.

The farmhouse style continues in the family area where the fireplace received an upgrade and a rustic mantel. A huge hit of the space is the barn door that separates the family room from the mud room. It was the perfect choice for the space since it allows for the mud room to be blocked off, yet it doesn’t add the bulkiness of a regular door.

Before photo of the mud room

These client’s mud room and powder room received a huge transformation. The powder room that was once just off of the family room has been reconfigured to just beyond the barn doors and includes a contemporary vessel sink, dark vanity, and oval mirror. The mudroom consists of white custom built-ins with lots of storage and a place to hang coats, store shoes, and organize other household items.

Mudroom with custom built-ins

We are very happy with the way the space turned out and we know our clients couldn’t be more thrilled with the results. To see more photos of this amazing transformation, please visit our Houzz profile here.