Planning a Bathroom Renovation for Your Austin Home in 4 Steps

Renovating a bathroom by working with the expert craftsmen at Freccia Group Residential Construction can enhance both the comfort and value of your Austin home. Consider these four essential steps.
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Key Considerations When Starting a Bathroom Renovation Project

Starting a bathroom renovation project can be an exciting opportunity to enhance the functionality, aesthetics, and value of your home. However, to ensure a smooth and successful renovation, it’s essential to plan carefully. Here are key considerations every homeowner should take into account before starting a bathroom renovation project.

Consider the Layout

The layout of your bathroom plays a critical role in both functionality and comfort. Assess the current layout and decide whether it meets your needs or requires reconfiguration. Consider factors such as the placement of plumbing, electrical outlets, and ventilation systems, as relocating these can significantly increase costs. If space is limited, think about creative solutions like space-saving fixtures or a more efficient layout to maximize the available area.

Choose Durable Materials

Bathrooms are high-moisture environments, so selecting durable and water-resistant materials is essential. Opt for high-quality tiles, countertops, and fixtures that can withstand the daily wear and tear of a bathroom. Additionally, consider using materials that are easy to clean and maintain, such as ceramic tiles, quartz countertops, and stainless steel fixtures. Investing in durable materials not only enhances the longevity of your bathroom but also reduces the need for frequent repairs and replacements.

Prioritize Storage Solutions

Lack of storage is a common issue in many bathrooms. To avoid clutter and maintain a clean, organized space, consider incorporating ample storage into your renovation plan. Built-in cabinets, floating shelves, and vanity units with drawers are excellent options for maximizing storage without sacrificing style. Additionally, think about vertical storage solutions, such as wall-mounted cabinets or tall shelving units, to make the most of your bathroom’s available space.

Think About Lighting

Lighting is often overlooked but is a crucial element of bathroom design. Proper lighting not only enhances the ambiance but also improves the functionality of the space. Incorporate a mix of task lighting, such as LED mirrors or vanity lights, and ambient lighting, like ceiling fixtures or recessed lights. Don’t forget to consider natural light as well — if possible, include windows or skylights to bring in natural brightness and reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Plan for the Future

When planning your renovation, think long-term. Consider features that will be beneficial as your needs change over time, such as grab bars, non-slip flooring, or a walk-in shower. Even if you don’t need these features now, incorporating them into your design can increase the overall accessibility and safety of your bathroom.

A bathroom remodeling project with a cabinet, drawers, mirror, sink, toilet, and shower

For a high-quality bathroom renovation project, consider partnering with Freccia Group. As experienced bathroom remodelers and luxury home builders in Austin, we specialize in transforming spaces with custom home-building solutions. Our expertise in bathroom remodeling ensures that your vision is realized with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Learn more about Freccia Group and call us for a free estimate.

Best Practices for Bathroom Remodeling in Austin

Bathroom remodeling is one of the most impactful home improvement projects, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. In Austin, where homes reflect the city’s unique blend of modern style and traditional charm, a bathroom remodel can significantly enhance your living space. To ensure a successful and satisfying renovation, it’s essential to follow best practices that cater to both local preferences and broader design principles.

Plan Thoroughly

Before starting any remodeling project, thorough planning is crucial. Begin by assessing your needs and goals for the remodel. Do you need more storage? Is there a desire for a more modern aesthetic? Or perhaps you want to enhance energy efficiency? Clearly defining your objectives will guide every decision you make. Additionally, consider the layout and size of your bathroom. In Austin, where space can vary significantly from one home to another, optimizing your layout for maximum functionality is key.

Set a Realistic Budget

Budgeting is one of the most important aspects of a successful bathroom remodel. It’s essential to establish a realistic budget that includes a buffer for unexpected expenses. Labor, materials, and fixtures can add up quickly, so prioritize your spending on the elements that will have the most significant impact. In Austin, where high-end finishes are popular, it’s easy to overspend. However, balancing quality with cost-effective choices will ensure you stay within your budget while still achieving the desired look.

Choose the Right Materials

Selecting the right materials is crucial for both the longevity and style of your bathroom. Given Austin’s humid climate, it’s important to choose moisture-resistant materials like ceramic tiles, quartz countertops, and high-quality ventilation systems. Additionally, consider materials that complement the local aesthetic. Natural stone, wood accents, and earthy tones can create a warm, inviting atmosphere that resonates with Austin’s blend of urban and rustic influences.

Focus on Energy Efficiency

Sustainability is a growing concern among Austin homeowners, making energy efficiency a priority in bathroom remodeling. Consider installing low-flow fixtures, energy-efficient lighting, and water-saving toilets. These choices not only reduce your environmental footprint but also lower utility bills over time. Incorporating natural light through windows or skylights is another effective way to enhance energy efficiency while creating a more inviting space.

Hire a Professional

While DIY projects can be tempting, hiring a professional contractor is often the best choice for a bathroom remodel in Austin. Experienced contractors understand local building codes, have access to quality materials, and can manage the project timeline effectively. They can also provide valuable design insights and help avoid common pitfalls, ensuring your remodel is completed to the highest standard.

A remodeled bathroom with sink, cabinets, and a toilet

For the best results in your bathroom remodeling project, consider working with experienced professionals like Freccia Group. As expert bathroom remodelers in Georgetown and custom home builders in Austin, we understand the nuances of bathroom remodeling best practices. Our team delivers high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, whether you’re updating a small bathroom or undertaking a luxury home build.

Learn more about Freccia Group and call us for a free estimate.

Shower Power: Designing a Functional and Beautiful Bathroom Shower

When it comes to designing a bathroom, the shower often takes center stage. It’s a place where functionality meets relaxation, and with a few thoughtful design choices, you can create a shower that is both practical and beautiful. Here are some innovative bathroom shower design ideas to help you design a shower that suits your needs and style.

Functionality First

Smart Storage Solutions

A clutter-free shower is a functional shower. Built-in niches and shelves provide a sleek way to store your toiletries. Consider adding a recessed shelf within the shower wall to keep your shampoo, conditioner, and soap easily accessible without taking up extra space.

Efficient Layout

The layout of your shower should make the best use of space while providing ample room to move. A walk-in shower without doors can create a seamless look and make your bathroom appear larger. If you have the space, a double shower with dual showerheads can add a touch of luxury and convenience for couples.

Quality Fixtures

Invest in high-quality fixtures that not only look good but also enhance your showering experience. Rainfall showerheads provide a soothing, spa-like experience, while handheld showers offer flexibility and ease of use. Thermostatic valves ensure a consistent water temperature, adding to the overall comfort and safety.

Aesthetic Appeal: Beauty Meets Practicality

Tile Trends

Tiles are a key element in shower design, offering endless possibilities for style and color. Large-format tiles reduce grout lines, creating a clean and modern look. Mosaic tiles, on the other hand, can add intricate detail and visual interest. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different tile styles to create a unique design.

Glass Enclosures

Glass shower enclosures make your bathroom look spacious and airy. Frameless glass doors offer a minimalist aesthetic and are easier to clean compared to framed ones. For a touch of elegance, consider frosted or textured glass, which provides privacy while still allowing light to filter through.

Lighting Matters

Good lighting is crucial in any shower. Incorporate a mix of task and ambient lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Waterproof LED lights can be installed in the shower ceiling or niches to highlight certain areas and add a touch of luxury.

Home renovation in a bathroom

When it comes to bathroom shower design, home renovation, and custom home building, Freccia Group stands out as a top choice in Austin, TX. Our expertise in creating functional and beautiful bathroom renovation in Austin makes us one of the leading luxury home builders in the area. With a focus on client satisfaction and high-quality craftsmanship, Freccia Group transforms your dream home into reality. Get in touch with us for more information.

Sleek and Chic: Modern Bathroom Makeover Ideas

Do you know that modern bathroom makeovers are all about clean lines, minimalist design, and a touch of luxury? Whether you’re looking to completely renovate your space or give it a fresh update, here are some simple and to-the-point ideas to achieve that modern look you’ve been dreaming of.

Go for a Monochromatic Palette

Start with a clean slate by opting for a monochromatic color scheme. Whites, grays, and blacks are classic choices that exude sophistication. Consider white tiles with dark grout for a striking look, or go for a sleek black-and-white theme for a timeless appeal.

Upgrade Your Fixtures

Swap out old, dated fixtures for modern alternatives. Sleek, matte black faucets and showerheads are on-trend and add a contemporary touch. Brushed nickel or stainless steel are also popular choices for a modern, polished look.

Add a Statement Mirror

A large, statement mirror can instantly elevate the style of your bathroom. Look for mirrors with unique shapes or frames to add visual interest. Not only do mirrors make the space feel larger, but they also reflect light, brightening up the room.

Choose Sleek Storage Solutions

Clutter is the enemy of a modern bathroom. Opt for sleek, minimalist storage solutions to keep essentials organized and out of sight. Floating shelves, wall-mounted cabinets, and built-in niches are great options that don’t take up valuable floor space.

Upgrade Lighting

Good lighting is essential for any modern bathroom. Replace outdated fixtures with modern, energy-efficient LED lights. Consider adding dimmer switches to create ambiance, especially around the bathtub, for a spa-like feel.

Embrace Minimalism

Less is more when it comes to modern design. Avoid overcrowding the space with unnecessary accessories or decor. Stick to a few statement pieces and keep the rest of the space clean and clutter-free.

Incorporate Natural Elements

Bring in elements from nature to add warmth and texture to your modern bathroom. Consider incorporating wood accents through shelving, countertops, or even a wooden stool. Plants are also a great way to add life to the space while purifying the air.

Don’t Forget the Details

Finally, pay attention to the small details that tie the room together. Matching accessories like towel racks, soap dispensers, and toilet paper holders in the same finish can elevate the overall look of your modern bathroom.

A modern bathroom makeover

Transform your bathroom with Freccia Group, Austin’s premier custom home builder in Austin and expert in modern bathroom makeovers and bathroom remodeling in Austin. Let us craft your dream bathroom, blending luxury with functionality for a space that reflects your unique style. Learn more about Freccia Group and call us for a free estimate.

Four Common Remodeling Mistakes That Turn Your Project Into a Nightmare

Remodeling is a huge undertaking that, when done right, can make you love your home even more. It’s an opportunity to upgrade your home and make it fit the way you live rather than the other way around. However, mistakes can be frustrating, costly, and downright dangerous, so here’s a list of errors: the earlier you can avoid them, the better. Continue reading “Four Common Remodeling Mistakes That Turn Your Project Into a Nightmare”

The Best Features to Add to Your Kitchen During a Remodeling Job

On average, homeowners spend more money on remodeling their kitchens than they do on any other room in the house. A tastefully decorated, warm, and inviting kitchen is the heart of a home. Many homeowners in the United States have kitchen islands in their kitchens where the whole family can get together for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So, a cozy kitchen is a great place for a family to bond and share meals.

When it comes to remodeling your kitchen, placing your trust in the right home renovation experts is crucial. Our home remodeling experts in Round Rock, Texas, are known for the beautiful kitchens they have created for countless homeowners in Central Texas.

If you are considering remodeling your kitchen, here are some of the best features you should think about adding:

A built-in refrigerator

A built-in refrigerator can add a sleek, integrated look to your kitchen. Built-in refrigerators are still relatively rare in the U.S., but that’s changing. If you have a smaller kitchen, a built-in refrigerator will help add space to your kitchen instead of cluttering the room. Or if you want a larger refrigerator like the ones with a sub-zero freezer, having it built in can sometimes allow you to add within the same space as a normal-sized refrigerator, side by side.

You can talk to our home remodeling experts in Round Rock, Texas, to discuss the feasibility of adding a built-in refrigerator to your kitchen.

Double ovens

Double ovens are not new, but their technology has come a long way. Typically built on top of each other and incorporated into the perimeter cabinetry, the top oven is normally used for baking purposes. But new models, such as the Samsung NV51K7770DS, have Flex Duo technology that allows you to cook at two different temperatures within the same oven.

Many of the new ovens today come with smart technology that enables you to control their operations from your smart device. That means you can place something in the oven before you leave the house, turn it on remotely, and it’ll be ready by the time you get home. If you’re someone who does a lot of baking, double ovens can be a real convenience.

Add a kitchen island

Again, islands are not a new thing, but the variations of them are. Yes, adding a kitchen island to your kitchen can give it the illusion of more space. Plus, it’s a great way for homeowners with young children to keep an eye on their kids while they eat, draw, or play while being seated at the kitchen island. Kitchen islands can also make the kitchen a more inviting and homey space where the family can dine and spend time together.

A Kitchen With a Marble Countertop
A Kitchen With a Marble Countertop

You can even add power outlets beneath the counters so that you have a power source to plug your devices and small appliances into. Adding lighting can make them a great work area during the day and an even better gathering place while meals are being prepared. You can discuss your plans for a kitchen island with our residential builders in Round Rock, Texas.

Design your dream kitchen with our home remodeling experts in Round Rock, Texas

At Freccia Group, we’re a residential and commercial construction company and real estate development firm based in the Austin, Texas, area. For years, we have been home remodeling experts in Round Rock, Texas, helping both residential and commercial property owners across Texas. We can help you build your dream kitchen with a simple renovation or remodeling job. Contact us on our website for more information or to learn more about our remodeling contractor in Round Rock, Texas.

3 New Trends in Bathroom Design You Should Know About

Think outside the Box

A bathroom is more than just a place where we shower or brush our teeth. It can also be a space to relax. What’s more therapeutic than a long bath by yourself when you can tune out the rest of the world and enjoy your own company … on your phone :-)?

A tastefully decorated bathroom can help you relax and unwind. A good bathroom design should bring together multiple features that complement one another. A residential builder in Round Rock, Texas can help you select the best features (including tiles, wallpaper, and lighting) to add to your bathroom remodeling.

Here are three trends in bathroom design that seem to be sticking around:

1. Matte black fixtures

Antique brass was popular with homeowners, but matte black fixtures, which made a comeback a few years ago, are here to stay. There are matte black faucets, toilets, bathtubs, and sinks. Black fixtures can add elegance and intrigue to your bathroom’s look without distracting from its overall design. They’re also easy to keep clean and will contrast with white walls and other white elements in your bathroom beautifully.

You can ask our home remodeling experts in Round Rock, Texas, how adding matte black fixtures can enhance the look of your bathroom.

2. Statement lighting

If you want your bathroom to have a spa-like feel to it, the right lighting will do most of the work for you. Whether you want your bathroom to have a contemporary or modern look, the lighting you select will have a major impact on the mood and ambiance of your bathroom.

LED lights, when installed vertically down the sides of mirrors, can light up the bathroom while being concentrated around the vanity, which is where they’re needed the most. You can also install dimmers to make the light brighter or softer depending on the mood you wish to create.

3. Botanical bathrooms

Adding plants to a bathroom can give it a lush, tropical feel. You can even kid yourself into believing you’re vacationing on a beach while you soak in the tub surrounded by greenery. You can add potted plants near the toilet or foliage on the wall. Pick plants that thrive in humid conditions, and make sure your bathroom has a window from which natural light can enter.

Ask your remodeling contractor in Round Rock, Texas, how a botanical bathroom could work within your space.

A Bathroom With a Shower Cubicle
A Bathroom With a Shower Cubicle

Get in touch with Freccia Group for bathroom remodeling in Round Rock, Texas

If you want to hire a residential construction contractor for bathroom remodeling in Round Rock, Texas, get in touch with us at Freccia Group. We’re a leading residential and commercial construction company and development firm based in the Austin, Texas, area. For years, we have served clients by providing the best home remodeling services in Round Rock, Texas. If you have any questions about bathroom remodeling or kitchen remodeling in Round Rock, Texas, contact us on our website, and let’s build something together.

How Upgrading Your Windows Can Make Your Home More Comfortable

Most of the time, we tend to focus on our bathrooms and kitchens during home renovations. This is because these are considered key spaces in a house, and upgrades in these areas usually add value to it. Continue reading “How Upgrading Your Windows Can Make Your Home More Comfortable”

Why Upgrading Your Insulation During Remodeling Is a Great Idea

While Texas typically doesn’t have very harsh winters, the summer season can be scorching and humid.

And since climate and weather can vary a great deal, it’s best to ensure that your home is well equipped to deal with the extreme temperatures.

Moreover, inadequate insulation means your utility bills are probably higher than they should be. And this alone is a great reason to replace your insulation during a home renovation.

How Does Home Insulation Work?

Basically, insulation works by trapping air molecules and keeping them from escaping the structural boundaries of your home.

As you probably know, heat is mainly transferred through three processes: convection, conduction, and radiation. While insulation can’t wholly halt heat transfer from your house, it can slow it down by reducing conduction, convection, and radiation.

Different Types of Insulation

Ceiling showing foam insulation
Ceiling showing foam insulation

There are many types of insulation options that all have both benefits and drawbacks. They have different costs and distinct applications, and some are more effective than others. They each have different R-values, which tells you the difference between the warmer temperature and cooler surface on each side the insulation material measuring the conductive flow of heat. The higher the R-value, the more resistant to heat the insulation is.

Minimum recommended home insulation R-values can range from R-13 for walls to R-60 for attics. Since attics are where both heat and cold escape, they need higher R-values to keep the home comfortable. And, depending upon where you live, the more extreme your area’s temperature—whether it’s hot or cold–the more material it takes to achieve an effective R-value.

Here is a list of the most common insulation materials ranked by lowest R-value to highest:

  • Blown-in (or loose-fill) insulation
  • Insulation blankets which include batts and rolls
  • Spray foam insulation
  • Foam board insulation

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular insulation materials in Round Rock homes.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is the most commonly used and most affordable type of insulation in Central Texas home. It’s made up of glass fibers that are extremely fine and are blown in (also known as loose fill) or spun to form rolls, batt insulation, or boards. Blown-in insulation is made up of loose fiberglass or foam material that’s blown into the space, and it’s perfect for adding a layer to your attic when you already have a layer that has compressed over time. Insulation rolls are used in new construction in walls but can also be added to attics. Batt insulation is similar to rolls, but they come in long sheets.

Since it’s a risky material to work with, it’s best to wear protective gear when installing it or maybe just let the experts handle it.

Cellulose

Cellulose insulation is highly underrated if you ask us. It’s perfect for building cavities and for restricting airflow. Moreover, some types are even fire- and insect-resistant, making them perfect insulation options for homes.

Also, since they don’t require any added moisture barrier, they work well for both old and new homes.

Spray Foam

Spray foam insulation in liquid form is mostly sprayed and at times poured or injected and helps to fill all spaces. It may cost more, but it has a higher R-value and saves you from other pricey processes like caulking, for instance.

Spray foam isolation can also be open-cell or closed-cell and is typically used for walls, below roofs, and under the floors.

Why Make Insulation a Priority During the Remodeling Process

Not only would proper insulation make your home more comfortable, but it would also help you save on unnecessary heating and cooling costs.

In fact, we usually advise our clients to upgrade their insulation during home remodeling projects since the walls are likely to be opened anyway.

If you have any questions about what insulation could be right for your home, give us a call.

We’re home remodeling experts in Round Rock, TX, and can help you upgrade your home’s energy efficiency with our home remodeling services.

3 Ways to Remodel a House to Make It Look More Spacious

If you’ve finally decided to go ahead with the home renovation you’ve been planning for years, it only makes sense to make the most of it.

Typically, the homes we buy or build are largely based on our present needs. Over time, our requirements change, and often, the space requirements are no longer the same, given that families grow.

So, if you’re remodeling your house, it’s best to plan ahead and maximize space.

And of course, while adding a few extra square feet would be ideal, it may not be an option for many. So, here are some ways you can still create space or at least an illusion of it.

Bring in the Patio

One of the simplest ways to add more space to your interiors is to make your exteriors a part of the house.

While, of course, a porch or a patio is part of the floor plan, they are exterior spaces with limited uses. You can expand the house and make these spaces more functional by enclosing them.

For instance, you could use them as an extra entertaining space or completely cover them to create a home office at the side of the house—the possibilities are endless! You could also just install bifold doors to open up the space and merge the interior spaces with your patio whenever you need to.

Get Rid of Some Interior Walls

a kitchen-dining area open design

Interior walls are meant to divide large indoor spaces into smaller ones. So, it makes sense to remove them if the small spaces are beginning to feel too small.

While, of course, the bedrooms require privacy, we suggest removing the interior walls between the kitchen, living room, dining area, and other shared spaces. This would give you a large open space that you can decorate and design smartly to maximize space.

Even if you decide to keep the room furniture in exactly the same spot, eliminating walls can transform multiple rooms into one larger space.

Utilize the Vertical Space

While most of us think about adding more horizontal space, we often overlook the vertical space we already have.

If you have taller walls, you can utilize them for storage. And in some cases, you could even consider building lofts if you have the space. This would open up your floor space, giving it a more spacious look overall.

If you’re not quite sure how to go about this, reach out to the renovation design experts at Freccia Group.

We’re remodeling contractors in Round Rock, TX, and can help you with our home remodeling services.

Call us for more information on how to get started.

3 Tips for Designing Your Dream Kitchen

Kitchens are often where families spend most of their time. It’s where we start the day, and it’s also the space where we make tons of family memories.

Your kitchen should look great, feel warm, and be as functional as possible.

Moreover, kitchens are incredible selling points in a house. Most real estate experts will tell you that most of the time, you’re not selling a house, but you’re selling a kitchen, so it’s something you need to focus on during home renovations.

Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind as you embark on renovating space into your dream kitchen. Continue reading “3 Tips for Designing Your Dream Kitchen”

Why Do You Need to Remodel Your Bathroom?

It’s Time For An Upgrade

If you are not happy with your current bathroom, it may be time for a remodel. Lucky for you, there are many different types of updates that you can make to your bathroom. From installing new tiles around the bathtub to installing a new sink, there are so many different things that you can do that will not only transform your bathroom into something beautiful but will also increase the value of your home.

Let’s look at some of the reasons why you might need bathroom remodeling.

Older bathrooms are small

Before the 1990s, bathrooms were meant strictly for doing your business and getting out. Now they’ve become a type of sanctuary or place to escape requiring more room and incorporating the latest technology, like heaters, video monitors, and touch-activated fixtures. Many people are replacing the integrated bathtub-shower with walk-in showers only. This change makes the bathroom feel more spacious and it’s more practical since more people these days are using the shower more often than the bathtub.

A newly remodeled bathroom will be a haven for relaxation

A newly remodeled bathroom may include an integrated steam room or sauna. Since some of the older bathrooms have both a shower and bath area, eliminating needing to dedicate space to a bathtub opens up the possibility of installing a sauna or steam room.

Some bathrooms are unsafe

If you’ve ever slipped in the bathtub or on the wet shower floor, you know how dangerous it can be to have unsafe footing surfaces. In older bathrooms, builders would tile everything and leave the bathtub finish slippery, making a rubber bathtub mat a necessity. Rarely would you find an older bathtub built for someone with disabilities.

When you redo your bathroom, make sure to use no-slip materials—like stone, tile, or even composite wood, which can resist moisture—on flooring and shower areas. If an older adult or someone with a physical disability is going to use the bathroom, be sure to include grab bars, extra lighting, and wider shower doorways to avoid accidents.

Everything is breaking

Given enough time, everything breaks down. From toilets to leaky faucets and cracked tiles, it’s not just ugly, it’s annoying. The beauty of a remodeled bathroom is that everything is new and you don’t have to worry about waking up in the morning with water leaking on your floor, the toilet running constantly, or the faucet having dripped all night.

If you are thinking about remodeling your bathroom, the options are endless. But what’s more important is that you choose a professional residential contractor who can execute your vision for your project. At Freccia Group, we provide professional residential construction services in Round Rock, Texas, to rebuild any room in your house.

Our team does bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, and a wide range of other construction services. Contact us today to get started.

Kitchen Remodeling: Why and When Should You Do It?

You’ve been overlooking your outdated kitchen for years now, thinking, “What if … ?” How do you know it’s time to make improvements—both functionally and aesthetically—to everyone’s favorite room in the home?

Allocating the finances to fund your redo could be more appealing since remodeling your space essentially adds value to your property, especially if you’re about to put it on the market. However, if you’re planning on staying in your home for at least five years, remodeling your kitchen is both a financial investment and an investment in your home life.

Here are two of the many ways that remodeling could help.

Makes the kitchen more spacious

Kitchen remodeling updates your kitchen’s style and can provide more space. Many homes built before the 1990s automatically included a formal dining room in their scope. As lifestyles have changed, that room has been used less and less. Fortunately, many floorplans located the formal dining area right next to the kitchen, now opening up the possibility of making the kitchen larger and incorporating seating in the kitchen’s island. This reflects how the kitchen has evolved from an isolated cooking-only area to a space where cooking, social interaction, and dining are all within a few feet.

Helps you organize your kitchen better

Kitchen remodeling can help with organization, too. You should be able to add storage with open pantries, wider and longer countertops, cabinets, and shelves. When people try to remodel their kitchen themselves, storage is often overlooked because people like to think about aesthetics. When you hire a professional designer, you leverage his or her years of experience to help you rebuild a kitchen that looks amazing, is more open, and has plenty of solutions that help you store food, dishes, appliances, and kitchen tools so that they’re hidden but easy to access when you need them.

How you know when it’s time to remodel your kitchen

That fact that you’re reading this blog says that you already know, but here are the top two reasons homeowners decide to redo their kitchen.

1. Little or no space

Your countertops are cluttered for a reason: You’ve got too many kitchen tools and appliances and not enough places to put them. The cabinets are packed and stacked to the point where the doors don’t close. The stove doesn’t have enough counter space on either side of it. If two people are cooking, they bump into each other trying to prep and cook at the same time. And, finally, the breakfast area where your family gathers most of the time is so far from the kitchen that it’s impossible to socialize while cooking meals. In most cases, the homes with these older kitchens have the space, but it needs to be utilized more wisely to open it up to the rest of the house. A professional designer can make this happen.

2. Worn countertops, cabinets, and appliances

Your oven is more than 20 years old. Your countertops have seen better days. Your cabinets are scratched and worn. If you have melamine or Formica countertops, congratulations, you may able to brag that you’ve discovered a lost archeological artifact!

This is the time to upgrade everything. You can replace your countertops with timeless granite or another hard surface that’s durable enough that you can cut on it. You can also replace those cabinets with wooden shelves to make the kitchen seem larger. And replacing your oven with a new smart oven can make cooking easier than ever.

If you are thinking about remodeling your kitchen, choose the right contractor that shares your vision while making sure you adhere to local building codes. At Freccia Group, we provide professional residential construction services in Round Rock, Texas, for homeowners who are ready to redo their kitchen or any other part of their home from interior upgrades to adding another room.

Our team provides kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, and a wide range of other construction services based upon the latest construction best practices and your vision. Contact us today to learn more about how to get started.

Small Home Renovation Ideas That Make a Big Difference

2022 will be the year of renovations. As the supply chain continues to affect new-construction homes, many people are deciding to renovate instead of buying up.

Whether you want to add a sunroom to the back of your house, redo the kitchen to make it more functional, or expand and repaint your living room to give it new energy, there are hundreds of ways you can improve your current residence. Here are just a few of the home renovation ideas that will be popular moving into the new year.

New paint and siding

A coat of new paint on the outside can make a huge difference in improving your home’s curb appeal. While many HOAs are restrictive in what you can do, others are pretty hands-off. Most will readily approve earth tones with accent shades for shutters and doors. Repainting your home also gives you the opportunity to repair or replace siding. Hardie® Plank siding has become more and more popular over the years because it looks like wood but it’s made of a composite material that’s both attractive and strong. Plus, you can install it in your colors or in a paint-ready option to apply your own blend.

Replace your bathtub with a shower

Bathing trends are showing that most people are taking showers more than baths. Showers use less water, are faster, and prevent you from wallowing in your own bathwater. If you have an old tub that is showing its age, replace it with a shower area that can fit in the same space. Today’s new showerheads have dual massagers or heads that spout water so that it falls like rain. Plus, you can have seating installed to make your shower more relaxing.

Add a kitchen island with stools

Kitchens in many new homes automatically come with an island with stools and tons of extra storage underneath. This is almost a necessity when you expand your kitchen and eliminate the walls in the breakfast and or formal dining area. Adding dining space to your island in the kitchen simply makes sense and allows you to socialize while preparing meals.

Improve the bedroom lighting

Adding new lighting to your bedroom can completely change its character and mood. Many of today’s LED recessed lights come with switches that allow you to change the tone of the light from warm glow to daylight. This option keeps you from having to change the bulbs out if you want to adjust the lighting in the room. Simply pull down the fixture and adjust the hue and put it back.

 

Upgrade to a new kitchen floor

Replacing the flooring in your kitchen can be an easy decision if your floors are more than 20 years old. Since the early 2000s, flooring has come a long way from new composite materials that look like wood but are really ceramic tile that comes in thousands of colors, designs, and textures. Whatever you decide, make sure the material is “no slip” and durable because the kitchen floor can take a beating with food spillage and water dripping.

If you’re thinking about renovating or remodeling your home, don’t compromise on the contractor you hire for the job. Find someone who listens and can execute your design. Choose a professional contractor who is dependable, insured and bonded, and has experience with renovation and remodeling kitchens in your area.

At Freccia Group, we provide professional residential construction services in Round Rock, Texas, to homeowners who are upgrading their property to sell or to stay in for a while. Our services include kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, and a wide range of other construction specialties.

Contact us today to learn more about how to get started.

 

3 Reasons Remodeling Your House Before Selling Is Worth It

Should you stay or should you go? We understand the hassle of trying to sell your home and of remodeling. When you combine these two decisions, you can double the frustration, but, financially, it could be worth it.

Many real estate investors are in search of old houses that they can buy cheap because they know that they can remodel them and sell them for a better price. But unless they want to sell their home to an investor, most homebuyers are looking for homes that are move-in ready. The more ready your home is, the faster it will typically sell, and at a higher price.

Here are some basic reasons renovating your home to sell makes sense.

home remodeling before being sold

It Gets Rid of Any Repairs Needed

Your home may not be neglected, but you may have let some things go for a while. It’s understandable that your house might need some repairs and even some updating to make the kitchen more open, and to replace the shiny wallpaper with a light-colored paint. If potential buyers identify these issues, they will typically negotiate them off your sales price or request a repair allowance. However, if you take care of them, they are no longer a factor and can help you fetch a higher price and faster closing.

It Makes Your Home Easier to Sell

Remodeled homes tend to attract more potential buyers than homes that aren’t remodeled because they look more attractive to more buyers. Moreover, remodeling your home provides you with a great selling point when it comes to negotiating the price of your home. This takes place when inspectors and appraisers take a look at the property. They will be able to point out that the remodeling has been done and there aren’t any major issues.

Remember that investors are looking for an investment price, while retail homebuyers are looking for a place to live. The former are practical buyers interested only in the price and the potential upside of investing in renovation only to resell it. The latter are more emotional and therefore will value (read: pay more money for) things that the investor wouldn’t. Things like an updated kitchen and appliances, patio covers, and bathroom fixtures are important to families relocating to your area. If you give them what they’re looking for, they’ll pay above market.

It Enhances the Value of Your House

There are many ways that remodeling can enhance the overall value of your house. For instance, you may replace old heating and cooling systems and water heaters with new, more energy-efficient options. Homes with 30-plus-year-old pipes should be re-piped—especially if the plumbing has a history of leaks. These features will help you market your home as a modern house with better value.

The bottom line is that having all the repairs and renovations done makes the process of selling a house easier and more profitable in the long run.

Best Home Renovators in Round Rock

Our home designers and construction professionals are some of the highest rated in Round Rock, TX. They listen to their clients and help them realize their goals and fit them into their budget. If you’re planning on selling your home, contact us soon to talk about home renovations in Round Rock, TX.

How Encaustic Tiles Are Transforming Today’s Kitchen and Bath Designs

Encaustic tiles are gaining popularity in today’s home designs, offering a delicate balance of unique artisan beauty and functionality based on an artform that’s thousands of years old.

“Encaustic” is a word derived from the Ancient Greek phrase “to burn,” which is how tiles were painted and enameled during that time. The process included painting tiles with a beeswax color that was then baked into place. In Medieval times, the process evolved into inlaid tile, which was composed of different colors of clay. The colors were inlaid into a pattern and then kiln-fired so that the design remained intact as it wore down over time.

Inlaid tile was commonly used in monastery and church architecture during the 13th through the 16th centuries. After disappearing for hundreds of years, it made a comeback during the Gothic Revival period.

Today, the term “encaustic tiles” is used somewhat loosely and can refer to anything from tiles made from cement similar to inlaid tiles to ceramic or porcelain tiles, which are less expensive versions made to look like encaustic tiles. While the former is more authentic, the latter two are typically more affordable.

victorian english gothic revival tiles
By Storye book – Own work, CC BY 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=61612962

How Are Encaustic Tiles Made?

The encaustic tiles today take about four weeks to make, depending on their design and thickness. The process is often done by hand by artisans, so the more complex the pattern, the longer it takes to manufacture. The tiles are typically made with cement blended with an alkaline binder, making them an economical alternative to cast ceramic tiles. Encaustic tiles made this way won’t crack or chip when exposed to freezing weather, so they’re great for exterior spaces, like patios, and they’re also very lightweight compared to other alternatives, which makes them suitable for kitchen backsplashes and bathroom floors.

A Great Alternative to Natural Stone

If you’re considering natural stone, encaustic tiles could be a great alternative because they look natural and incorporate unique designs with an artisan’s touch. For an added cost, some manufacturers will customize the tiles themselves, or you can customize the tile’s configurations to create your own unique design.

Are Encaustic Tiles a Better Option?

Encaustic tiles offer several benefits over their alternatives, including durability and unique designs. They’re porous, so it’s difficult — if not impossible — for algae and mildew to grow on them, they’re virtually maintenance free, they’re easy to clean, and they’re versatile.

Thinking of Doing Some Home Improvements? Get Home Remodeling Services in Round Rock, TX

If you’re thinking of redoing your kitchen, bathroom, or patio, contact Freccia Group to discuss your ideas. We’ve worked with homeowners across Central Texas on home improvement projects ranging from kitchen renovations to new home construction. Freccia Group has been providing homeowners in Round Rock with expert remodeling services that have earned us five-star reviews.

We believe that design should reflect how people live, so our home remodeling experts take the time to learn how you live and what you want from your home. Contact us to learn more.

New Trends in Master Bathroom Design

An In-Home Oasis

A bathroom is more than just a place where you shower and “do your business.” Many busy adults consider their bathroom a place to escape rather than just for more traditional purposes. A well-designed bathroom can make you more relaxed and allow you to take some time for yourself. Here are some of the new trends in master bathroom design that can help you brainstorm just what this special place could be:

Continue reading “New Trends in Master Bathroom Design”