Dream Homes 2014 by SouthwestIowaNews.com

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4 Dream Homes 2014

Welcome to “Dream Homes, 2014.” Dreams can be a powerful, motivating force. Today’s reality was built on yesterday’s dream and this publication is about just that…building on your dream. You’ve always wanted to build that special home but needed an idea or encouragement to spark the reality. This publication provides not only the ideas, but those individuals and businesses that can help you achieve reality. Even if your dream is achieved on a smaller scale, in this case remodeling your existing home…the point is that It can happen with some helpful planning. We hope this publication will help kindle your dreams into a reality!

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A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.

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Model Homes Braxton....................................................................... 9 Cauldwell.................................................................. 10 Hastings.................................................................... 12 Kersley...................................................................... 13 Lantana.................................................................... 17 Parkview................................................................... 20 Reynolds................................................................... 25 Riverside................................................................... 27 Roxbury.................................................................... 28 Sedona..................................................................... 29 Sierra........................................................................ 33 Tealwood.................................................................. 34

Dream Homes 2014 5

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6 Dream Homes 2014

10 Interior Design and Home Remodeling Trends for 2014 Homeowners predicted to embrace bolder colors, upgrade the humble wall socket, say no to boring cabinet design and hop into showers over tubs Trend #1. U-Socket

Apple devices reign in most households, so the new U-Socket wall plug has two built-in USB ports to power devices including iPhones, gaming devices, digital cameras, Kindles and iPads. The U-Socket also has a smart sensor that allows it to shut off when the device is fully charged — an environmentally friendly feature that prevents “vampire drain.”

Trend #2. Kicking the Shower to the Curb Showers are becoming more popular than tubs. “Homeowners are looking to enjoy the “shower experience” rather than the traditional “tub experience”. An increasingly popular feature is the curb-less shower.

Trend #3. Stand Alone Tubs

If homeowners want a tub experience in 2014, it’s likely they will select a free standing tub as a structural element, which takes up much less space in the room than the old tiled-in tub deck.

Trend #4. Floating Shelves

Cabinets can make or break a kitchen design. New design kitchens don’t have just long runs of cabinets but that are broken up into different sections. Don’t take up all the wall space with cabinets but rather have floating shelves, open spaces, and room to hang wall art.

Trend #5. Cobalt Blue

While designers may disagree on what constitutes some trends in 2014, on one subject they all agree: Bright colors are most certainly “in”….cobalt blue is a particularly hot color.

Trend #6. From Modern to Modest

The industrial modern décor of 2013 will morph into a more relaxed, more classic and modest look in 2014. While stone, metal, and wood will still be popular, expect a more relaxed feel and rounded designs with earth shades and raw metal finishes.

Trend #7. Self-Expression

Whether it’s bold use of color or ornamentation, homeowners won’t be afraid to express their personality. Jeweled colors, gilded frames, and layered textiles will be methods of selfexpression in 2014.

Dream Homes 2014 7

Trend #8. Multigenerational Living More and more, families are looking to design bathrooms outfitted with multigenerational features that can accommodate aging parents or boomerang kids. Wall mounted sinks for wheelchairs, walk-in bathtubs, and motion sensing faucets can make the bath a better experience for everyone.

Trend #9. Eco-friendly Cabinets 2014 incorporates looks from Mother Nature, and cabinets will be no exception. Earth-friendly cabinets with no added

formaldehyde and non-toxic glues, binders, and finishes will rise in demand. There has been an increase in inquiries from people with chemical sensitivity.

Trend #10. Urban Downsizing:

Downsizing continues to be a long-term trend. 2014 will see people interested in living in smaller spaces that are closer to urban downtowns rather than larger houses in the suburbs.

Source: Neil Kelly Company, an award-winning design-build remodeling firm located in Portland, OR. http://www.neilkelly.com/about-us/news-and-reviews/press-releases/top-ten-home-remodeling-trends-2014/

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8 Dream Homes 2014

Americans plan to spend more on home improvement Homeowners are increasingly willing to spend on home improvements than they have in previous years, according to a survey. By Christine DiGangi, Credit.com Americans are increasingly willing to spend on home renovations, according to a survey that says they are taking on more projects and plan to use more expensive materials throughout the process. In a news release, remodeling app Planese outlined the results of an online survey done with remodelormove.com, in which homeowners were asked roughly 70 questions about their plans to remodel their home or move to a new one. All 5,000 respondents were interested in making some sort of change. The results indicate Americans are willing to spend 30% of their home’s value to remodel, up from 25% in 2007 and 28% in 2010, though home prices were significantly higher in 2007 and lower in 2010 than they are now. People plan to spend an average of about $102,000 to renovate. How homeowners said they’d use that money offers more insight into the consumer mindset. Based on the survey results, those looking to remodel increasingly plan to hire professionals for the work and use more expensive materials for the renovation. And as far as what they’re remodeling, homeowners surveyed in 2013 are undertaking more expensive projects by favoring kitchen updates

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over bathrooms. In the news release, Planese CEO and Co-Founder Dan Fritschen added context to the numbers. “Consumers are spending again, which bodes well for the entire home improvement industry,” Fritschen said. “More people are feeling secure enough during this economic environment that they are remodeling.” Home improvement is more than enhancing the aesthetics and comfort of a house, because it can pay off in the long term by adding value to the property. No matter how you finance renovations — personal loan, savings, home equity line of credit — staying on budget is crucial. How to Spend the Budget Though 43% of those surveyed by Planese said they planned to be hands-off in the remodeling process (up from 36% in 2010 and 2007), a little do-it-yourself work may free up cash for other parts of the project. Nearly two-thirds of homeowners said they planned to hire a general contractor, and 54% said they’d hire an architect, up from 64% and 47% in 2010, respectively. The biggest jump in the data seems to be the growing preference for pricey products. In 2007, 9% of homeowners said they would use “expensive materials” (the term is undefined in the release), and in 2010 that share was 10%. Now, 17% expressed a preference for the finer goods. Renovations should be an investment, not a path to debt. If you need to take out financing in the form of a home equity line of credit, a personal loan or a credit card, make sure you understand the impact that new credit can have on your credit score. Credit.com’s Credit Report Card will provide your free credit scores and let you see how adding a loan or credit card will impact your credit.

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Dream Homes 2014 9

Relax, entertain in the spacious Braxton By Associated Designs

Spacious and bright, the Braxton Terrace Terrace is a large stucco and brick home 10' Ceiling designed for an active couple that Family Garage 19' x 28'8" likes to entertain and appreciates 23'8" x 39' having plenty of room to spread out. Dining 17'6" x 15'2" A lofty portico invites you to step inside the wide, 14-foot high entry. Kitchen 10' Ceiling Sparkling panes of glass flank the Great Room Nook 16' x 21'7" front and cut an arched swath above Guest 11'2" x Room it, creating an 10'2" 18'2" x 14' elegant foyer Den 14' Ceiling 14'6" x awash with Entry Screen 15'2" Porch light. Directly Braxton ahead, two sets Porch Owners’ PLAN 11-040 of slender colSuite Sitting umns support Living Area 3926 sq.ft. 15'9" x 20' Utility/ Sewing another arched Screened Porch 80 sq.ft. opening, leadGarage 961 sq.ft. ing into a cofDimensions 115' x 84' Study fered ceilinged 17'4" x 13'4" 3000 SERIES great room, www.AssociatedDesigns.com richly glassed at the rear. owners’ suite instead. The guest Double doors at the end of the folding clothes. Counter space in the large suite has yet another private bathhallway to the left open into a lavish owners’ suite that has a huge kitchen is expanded by a work is- room. Visit AssociatedDesigns.com for walk-in closet, private bath, and its land and an eating bar. Bay winown sitting bay and screened dows brighten the nook. The dining more information or to search our porch. Owners’ bath features include room has a built-in buffet, and in home plans. A review plan of the twin basins, a spa brightened by the family room, windows flank Braxton 11-040, including floor glass blocks, oversized shower and the fireplace. Two sets of sliding plans, elevations, section, and enclosed toilet. Another set of dou- glass doors access backyard terraces. artist’s conception, can be purchased The Braxton can be adapted to for $25. Our home plan catalog, ble doors opens into a study. Outfitted with its own bathroom, this accommodate children or other featuring over 550 home plans, costs house mates by converting the den $15. Both are available online, by room could serve as a home office. The large utility/sewing room has to a bedroom. In this scenario, the mail or phone. Add $5 s/h. Associa utility tub, a pull-down ironing fireplace in the den would face the ated Designs, 1100 Jacobs Dr., Euboard, and built-in counters for opposite direction, warming the gene, OR 97402, (800) 634-0123.

10 Dream Homes 2014

Cauldwell has rustic warmth, great views Cauldwell By Associated Designs

opening. On the other side of the and convenient powder room are to Patio door, abundant natural light washes 16' thexleft 14' of the foyer. The kitchen is partially enclosed, Stone veneer wainscoting and into the foyer through sidelights and Living Area 2428 sq.ft. shake-textured lend their rus- an arched transom. French doors on partially open to this large gathering Bonus Room siding 447 sq.ft. Dining the right open into a12' vaulted parlor. space. Its raised eating counter hides tic ambiance to the contemporary-Bedroom x 13' Garage 967 sq.ft. 12' x 11' providing Craftsman Cauldwell. This is basi- Wide Craftsman-style windows fill kitchen clutter while Owners’ Suiteseat71' xplan. 64' Only the most of the front wall, and these are ing for conversation 15' xor 15'4" informal callyDimensions a single-level 2000over SERIES bonus room the garage is up- capped by a smaller clerestory meals. Great Room Two stacks of cookbook shelves stairs. Thus, this plan is easily window at center. www.AssociatedDesigns.com x 19'10" On the far side of the foyer,16'4" a line the passage linking the kitchen wheelchair adaptable. Bedroom wide arched opening leads directly to the large pantry and spacious utilWindows fill most of the rear, ofKitchen 11'4"into x 11'the great room. This, too, is a ity room across the hall. Secondary fering panoramic views in that direction. So this plan is also well-suited bright space. Two banks of windows bedrooms are further down the hall, Altand the entire famalong with a two-section bathroom. fill the back Dn wall, for construction on a view lot. Bsmt Dn gracefully defines The Cauldwell’s owners’ suite ily living area wraps around a parAccent trim its own large bathroom, two tially covered patio. A coat closet boasts the entry porch’s gently archedUtility Foyer Up closets (one a roomy walk-in), and direct patio access. Bathroom luxuries include: a deep spa or soaking Cauldwell Vaulted shower, Patio tub, oversized Patio 16' x 14' Parlor PLAN 30-509 16' x 14'Porch dual vanity and totally 16' x 13'6" LivingBonus Area 2428 sq.ft. private toilet. Dining Room Bedroom 12' x 13' Bonus 447 sq.ft. Visit Associated 12' x 11' Dining 14'Room x 25'6" Owners’ Suite Bedroom Garage Designs.com for more 15' x 15'4" 12' x 13' 35' x 25'6" Garage 967 sq.ft. 12' x 11' Owners’ Suite or to (27'6" Deep at 3rd Bay) information Dimensions 71' x 64' Great Room 15' x 15'4" search our home 16'4" x 19'10" 2000 SERIES plans. A review plan Bedroom Kitchen © 2013 Associated Designs, Inc. Great Room www.AssociatedDesigns.com www.AssociatedDesigns.com 11'4" x 11' of the Cauldwell 3016'4" x 19'10" 509, including floor Dn Alt Bedroom Bsmt Kitchen Dn plans, elevations, 11'4" x 11' Utility section, and artist’s Foyer Up conception, can be Dn Alt purchased for $25. Bsmt Dn Vaulted Our home plan catalog, Utility Parlor Porch featuring more than Up 16' xFoyer 13'6" Bonus Room 550 home plans, costs 14' x 25'6" Garage $15. Both are available 35' x 25'6" (27'6" Deep at 3rd Bay) online, by mail or Vaulted phone. Add $5 s/h. Associated DeParlor Porch © 2013 Associated Designs, Inc. signs, 1100 Jacobs Dr., Eugene, 16' x 13'6" Bonus Room OR 97402, (800) 634-0123. PLAN 30-509

14' x 25'6"

Garage 35' x 25'6"

Dream Homes 2014 11

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12 Dream Homes 2014

Hastings has crisp façade, space to spare with a raised conversation bar, and an exceptionally large pantry and wine cellar. The Hastings’ owners’ suite fills the entire left wing, front to back. The sleeping area is roomy enough to hold a couch and easy chairs, as well as a king-size bed, and it has two expansive walk-in closets, one with a built-in dresser and ironing board. Each of the upstairs bedrooms has a private lavatory plus a walk-in closet. Visit AssociatedDesigns.com for more information or to search our home plans. A review plan of the Hastings 30-361, including floor plans, elevations, section, and artist’s conception, can be purchased for $25. Our home plan catalog, featuring over 550 home plans, costs $15. Both are available online, by mail or phone. Add $5 s/h. AssociatCovered Patio ed Designs, 1100 17' x 6' Jacobs Dr., Eugene, OR 97402, Owners’ (800) 634-0123.

Keystone arches, stone veneer columns and custom Craftsman windows give the Hastings an intriguing front façade, and the stone slab bench adds to the visual interest. This large home offers 3,353 square feet of living area, plus a roomy garage and an immense skylit bonus room. Natural light spills into the wide foyer through sidelights and transoms. The foyer, parlor and living room feel even more spacious than their ample square footage, due to lofty two-story ceilings. The stairway leads to a loft that overlooks the living room. A handy laundry chute up here delivers soiled items to the utility room downstairs. Double doors on the right open into a parlor, while an open passageway on the left leads to a large coat closet, then on to the owners’ suite. Straight ahead is a huge living room brightened by trios of Craftsman windows stacked three high. A fireplace and capacious entertainment center completely fill one wall. Bay windows expand a Hastings dining room that is completePLAN 30-361 ly open to the kitchen and ofFirst Floor 2572 sq.ft. fers access to a covered patio. Second Floor 781 sq.ft. A wine refrigerator, wine Living Area 3353 sq.ft. cabinet and desk are built-in, near the powder room and Bonus Room 650 sq.ft. passthrough utility room. Garage 863 sq.ft. Counters wrap around Dimensions 66'x72'8'' three sides of the roomy 3000 SERIES kitchen. Other features of www.AssociatedDesigns.com note include a work island

Bedroom 13' x 13'

Open to Living Below Bedroom 13'8'' x 12'4''

Bonus Room 28'2'' x 17'6''

Covered Patio 18' x 7'4''

Dining Kitchen 13' x 18'6''

Suite 16' x 19'4''

Living 22' x 27'

Utility

By Associated Designs

Up Foyer

Parlor 12'6'' x 17'6''

Shop 15' x 11'

Garage 25'2'' x 26'8''

Dream Homes 2014 13

Classic Kersley has room to entertain By Associated Designs

Guest

Suite Kersley Kersley 11' x 11'

Utility

other fireplace adds colVisit AssociatedDesigns.com for or and warmth. The en- more information or to search our Kersley PLAN 30-041 30-041 Bedroom tertainment center hous- home plans. A review plan of the PLAN The Kersley's arched Bedroom PLAN 11'8'' x First Floor 2027 sq.ft. es11'8'' electronic toys -- big Kersley 30-041 30-041, including floor windows and lofty en- First Floor 2027 sq.ft. x 13'4'' Floor elevations, 2027 sq.ft. section, and plans, try are reminiscent of Second 13'4'' television, CD First Second Floor Floor 1441 1441 sq.ft. sq.ft. screened 1441 sq.ft. artist’sFloor conception, can be purchased Chateauesque homes, Living Area 3468 sq.ft. player, Blu-ray player, Second Living Area Dn 3468 sq.ft. video games and what- Living for $25. Our3468 home plan catalog, feapopular at the turn of Area sq.ft. Garage 990 sq.ft. 990 sq.ft. have-you. Kitchen con- turing more 990 than 550 home plans, the 20th century. Key- Garage sq.ft. Dimensions 91' 91'xx46'6'' 46'6'' veniences include a Garage costs $15. Both are available online, stones, corner quoins Dimensions Dimensions 91' x 46'6'' 3000 SERIES SERIES spacious walk-in pan- by mail or phone. Add $5 s/h. Asand a steeply pitchedOwners’ 3000 Bedrm 3000Designs, SERIES 1100 Jacobs Dr., Bedrm try and a large work is- sociated www.AssociatedDesigns.com hipx roof, 11'8'' 12' not to mention Suite www.AssociatedDesigns.com Open to 11'8'' x 12' 16'4'' x 15' www.AssociatedDesigns.com land with a cook top. Eugene, OR 97402, (800) 634-0123. sheer size, create an Foyer All four bedrooms in the Kersley impression of statuesque grandeur. Inside, a graceful curved staircase are upstairs. Owners’ suite luxuries Guest sweeps up the right side of a wide, include a capacious walkSuite in closet, and a bathroom bright foyer that boasts a two-story 11' x 11' Nook vanities, soaking and a hardwood floor. with twin Nook Bedroom 11'ceiling x 8' Patio © 2012 Associated Designs, Inc. 11'8'' 11' x 8' Arched openings lead to the formal tub, and oversized © 2012 Associated Designs, Inc.x Kitchen 13'4'' The Kitchen living room, dining room, and the shower. Storage informal family living 5'6'' spaces at the guest suite has its Storage Dn x 18'6'' own bathroom, rear. Most of the main floor has 9-Family 5'6'' x 18'6'' 28' x 18'2'' complete with foot ceilings. o Owners’ Dn to shower. The other two Above the fireplace in the livingGarage Suite Bsmt Garage Bedrm x 35' Open to 11'8'' x 12' share a dual-enroom, mirrored glass shelves show-24' bedrooms 16'4'' x 15' 24' x 35' Foyer Pool Room case family 15'6'' mementos and objets try, two-section bathroom. x 21' d'art. French doors and a tray ceilDining ing augment the sense of cultured Living Up Dining 13'6'' x 12'4'' Up refinement. The dining 14' x 14'6'' Foyer 13'6'' x 12'4'' Nook PatioFoyer room, with its coffered ceil11' x 8' overed ing, hardwood floor and Kitchen Covered Porch built-in buffet, is equally elStorage Porch Family 5'6'' x 18'6'' egant. 28' x 18'2'' Family room, nook and Dn to Bsmt Garage kitchen are all of a piece. A 24' x 35' Pool Room pool room is off to the left, 15'6'' x 21' through raised panel doors. Living Roomy and bright, this play Dining Up 14' x 14'6'' 13'6'' x 12'4'' area has a wet bar and slid© 2012 Foyer Associated ing glass doors that open on Designs, Inc. Covered a large patio. Porch In the family room, an-

14 Dream Homes 2014

A Remodeling Checklist There is no doubt about it: just planning a renovation can be time-consuming and stressful—hunting down a contractor, pursuing construction permits, securing the financing. Here are some remodeling prep tips from home repair expert Mike Holmes, of HGTV’s “Holmes on Homes,” and of the recently launched Holmes: The Magazine to Make It Right, to help you get started. Plan: Know your needs • Do your homework. Start with a list of preferences for such items as lighting, flooring, and appliances–and include brand names. This will keep you and your general contractor on the same page about the costs and quality of the work. The more details you can provide the better. • Put your ideas on paper—make sketches and draw up floor plans to discuss with your contractor. Budget: Control spending • Don’t just nail down products you want your contractor to use but also call around for estimates for how much they cost to install. Factor these in along with miscellaneous expenses such as dining out or booking a hotel room when and if construction makes the space temporarily unlivable. This leads to a realistic budget. • A good rule of thumb is to set aside 10-15 percent more than you figure your renovation will cost. Hire: Ask the right questions • Important questions to ask the contractor include: • What warranty do you offer, and what does it cover? • May I see a copy of your business license • Are you going to acquire the correct permits for the job or will I? Source: http://www.rd.com/home/improvement/a-simple-home-remodelingchecklist/#ixzz2ll9nLTwz

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16 Dream Homes 2014

Home Remodeling Spending to Accelerate into 2014 Harvard’s Leading Indicator suggests that home improvement spending growth will peak in early 2014

By Daryl Delano The Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) report released by Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS) documents continued market improvement, and predicts strong gains for the balance of 2013 and into the early months of 2014. Following a 12-month period when annualized growth averaged just under 5 percent, the LIRA shows home improvement spending momentum building to double-digit growth in the months ahead. By the first quarter of 2014, spending for home im-

provement projects is predicted to be growing at an annualized rate of 17.3 percent, with the dollar value of activity projected to reach an annualized total of $148.9 billion. The JCHS expects the first quarter of 2014 will represent the peak of growth for this recovery cycle, although still–robust double-digit growth rates will likely be posted at least through the spring and early summer of next year. “Existing home sales are still growing at a doubledigit pace, and rising house prices are helping homeowners rebuild equity lost during the housing crash,” notes Kermit Baker, the director of the Remodeling Futures Program at Harvard’s JCHS. In its most recent release, the National Association of Realtors reported existing home sales nationwide through the first two-thirds of 2013 were running 11.9 percent ahead of the total recorded over the first eight months of 2012. Since recent homebuyers are traditionally the most active in the home improvement market, the growth in sales of existing homes is providing more opportunities for remodeling projects. The LIRA is compiled by analyzing recent trends in eight specific indicators of market activity (e.g., housing starts, pending home sales, retail sales at building supply stores, etc.) which together have historically had strong correlations to remodeling spending. After weighting the components to reflect their relative correlation and lead times with respect to historical remodeling spending trends, the factors are applied to develop a forecast of near-term changes in the market.

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Southwestern Lantana stately yet friendly By Associated Designs

cessed through a The adjacent room Lantana French door in the could be a home office, PLAN 30-177 nook. nursery or bedroom. Living Area 2692 sq.ft. Range and oven are Utilities and two built into a peninsular more bedrooms are loGarage 736 sq.ft. counter that could be cated on the far side of Dimensions 88'x62'4" outfitted as an eating or the house, connected to 2000 SERIES conversation bar. While the three-car garage. cooking, you can keep www.AssociatedDesigns.com Visit AssociatedDetabs on happenings in signs.com for more inthe nook and family room, or en- formation or to search our home joy the flames in the fireplace. A plans. A review plan of the Lantawalk-in pantry adds storage space. na 30-177, including floor plans, The Lantana’s owners’ suite has elevations, section, and artist’s contwo closets, a private bathroom, and ception, can be purchased for $25. a bay window — just the spot for a Our home plan catalog, featuring window seat or sewing nook. more than 550 home plans, costs Owners’ bath luxuries include a $15. Both are available online, by soaking tub, dual vanity and shower. mail or phone. Add $5 s/h. Associated Designs, 1100 Jacobs Dr., Eugene, OR 97402, (800) 634-0123.

Corner quoins accent wide stucco columns that support the Lantana’s dramatic portico. In fact, all its front-facing exterior corners are quoined. Raised planters and a parade of windows soften the lines, creating a front facade that is at once friendly and impressive. This plan’s interior reflects the same mix. The stately ambiance permeating living room, foyer and dining room transitions into a free-flowing, relaxed feeling when you enter the kitchen, nook or family room. A 12-foot ceiling adds volume to the spacious foyer, while 10-foot ceilings grace formal gathering spaces on either side. Classic ceiling treatments enhance the impact of these rooms. The dining room has a coffered Garage ceiling; the living room’s 22'10" x 31'2" tray ceiling echoes the room’s elongated octagonal shape. Multipaned windows, wide and plentiful, brighten the large, comfortable Utility living area at the rear. From the kitchen sink you can enjoy the view across a patio, acAlternate Basement Stairs

Bedroom 13' x 11'

Patio Patio

Kitchen 11'4" x 15'8"

Nook 10' x 16'2"

Bedroom 11'8" x 13'

Family 15' x 16'2"

Dining 12' Ceiling 11'8" x 14'4" Foyer

Family Dn Foyer

Porch

Office 12' x 11'10"

Living 14' x 15'2"

Owners’ Suite 15' x 16'8"

18 Dream Homes 2014

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Dream Homes 2014 19

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20 Dream Homes 2014

Parkview attracts plenty of attention

Vaulted Bedroom 12'6'' x 10'8'' Vaulted Bonus Room 12'4'' x 22' Bedroom 12'6'' x 11'4''

Parkview

Vaulted Loft 23'6'' x 12'

Owners’ Suite 12'8'' x 11'8''

Entry Up

Garage 19'6'' x 22'

Kitchen

Not only is this contemporary town home eye-catching and spacious, but it also fits neatly on a narrow lot. The Parkview’s footprint is perfectly rectangular on its right and rear sides. The left and front are basically rectangular, but varied by a porch, patio, balcony and wall extension, as well as intriguing cantilevered roof lines. Natural light washes into the entry and stairwell through the striking stacked sets of tall slender windows that highlight one side of the front façade. Just inside the front door, you pass that windowbright stairway plus a handy powder room and convenient coat closet before stepping into the living room. The inner half of the living/dining room has a standard-height ceiling, due to the vaulted second-story loft. The exterior-oriented half PLAN 30-905 shares the loft’s vaultFirst Floor 941 sq.ft. ed ceiling. Light spillSecond Floor 947 sq.ft. ing in through ground level and clerestory Living Area 1888 sq.ft. windows brightens the Bonus Room 303 sq.ft. entire space. A fire- Garage 433 sq.ft. place is nestled into Dimensions 26' x 58'6'' one front corner. 1000 SERIES The living room segues seamlessly into the www.AssociatedDesigns.com

each bedroom has its own vanity. Double doors in the Parkview’s loft open onto a charming balcony. Visit AssociatedDesigns.com for more information or to search our home plans. A review plan of the Parkview 30-905, including floor plans, elevations, section, and artist’s conception, can be purchased for $25. Our home plan catalog, featuring 550 home plans, costs $15. Both are available online, by mail or phone. Add $5 s/h. Associated Designs, 1100 Jacobs Dr., Eugene, OR 97402, (800) 634-0123.

Balcony

dining area. The atrium door at the juncture of these two spaces makes it easy to move meals out onto the partially covered side patio. A flush eating bar rims the counter that bounds the kitchen. Laundry appliances are nearby, in a passthrough room that links with the two-car garage. The owners’ suite fills out the rest of the main floor. It boasts a walk-in shower, dual vanity and roomy walk-in closet. Two more bedrooms are upstairs. Each offers direct entry to the three-section bathroom—toilet and tub are shared, but

Utliity

By Associated Designs

Dining 8'8'' x 13'

Living 14' x 13'

Dream Homes 2014 21

Questions to Ask Before Adding On Zoning and cost are some issues to consider before beginning this major home renovation By Oliver Marks You’ve perused showrooms, flipped through home magazines, studied friends’ houses—and perhaps even found design inspiration in your own dreams. You have a clear goal, a budget, and perhaps a scrapbook filled with clippings, brochures and back-of-an-envelope sketches. But you’re not quite ready to start your addition project—until you ask yourself the following questions: 1) How would you design your house if you were building it new? “It’s so hard to see past what’s already there, like a bookcase or a doorway or wall,” says New York City architect Dennis Wedlick. “So forget about your house. Imagine you’re starting from scratch and create the ideal home.” That liberates you to get really creative about what you want—and helps to prioritize your goals for the job. Then you can look for ways to turn your building into that dream house, through an addition, a remodeling project or a combination of both. Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report Thanks to the overall housing market, the average return on home improvements dropped from a peak of 85 percent in 2005 to just 60 percent in 2010 2) Will the addition add value to your home? Even if you have no plans to sell anytime soon, you (or your family) will sell someday—and you might also refinance or take out a home equity line of credit, for which you’ll want the best possible appraisal of your home. So always consider the resale value of your project. It’s not that you’re going to turn a profit on your investment. So you might as well go into the job with realistic expectations about payback. Because they’re among the costliest home projects, addition jobs often return less than remodels. The Remodeling report pegs the following returns on additions: A twostory addition with a family room downstairs and master suite upstairs (65 percent); master-suite-only addition (63 percent); bathroom addition (53 percent); and sunroom addition (49 percent). To maximize your payback, add amenities that are highly sought after in your area. If your neighbors have master suites and you don’t, then that’s a good investment, says Omaha appraiser John Bredemeyer, past president of the Appraisal Institute, a standards setting organization. If nobody else on the block has one, your payback will be small. 3) Is there a lower-cost way to get what you want? The downturn

in addition payback doesn’t mean you shouldn’t add on— assuming you’re doing the work for your own enjoyment and intend to stay in the home for at least 5 years. But it does mean you might want to look for ways to cut the costs of your project. And the best way to do that is to look for ways to eliminate or minimize the need to add on—by using the attic or basement or by simply reconfiguring existing living space, says Eden Prairie, Minn., design-build contractor Mark Mackmiller.

4) Are there any zoning restrictions to consider? Most municipalities have rules about what you can build where—including when you’re building an addition. For example, though local zoning laws vary, in a residential area, you’re generally not allowed to build anything within 20 feet of the front of your property; 7.5 feet of either side, or 15 feet of the rear, according to Roy L. Fyffe, Building Official for Burnet, Texas, and spokesman for the American Association of Code Enforcement. There are also rules about how close you can get to wetlands and how much of your lot can be covered with impermeable materials (including both structures and paving)—as well as how tall buildings can be, which can limit additions that go up instead of out. Check with your local building department as you begin your project planning.

5) How will your addition tie into the house? Adding onto a home requires a bit of finesse to make it look like it belongs—while also taking advantage of all of the modern amenities available today, says Curt Schultz, a Realtor-architect-builder in Pasadena, Calif. You’ll want to consider how the roofline connects to the house, how you’ll compliment the style of the house, from the interior and exterior finish materials to the windows to the utilities and heating and cooling— and at the same time create a functional, modern space that will provide maximum benefit to your family without being overly taste or lifestyle specific. That’s a tall order for the typical homeowner—or even many general contractors—to get right, so consider hiring an architect or designer to help create the best possible plan.

6) How much do you expect to spend on your addition? Since every house, every site, and every family’s wish list are different, the only way to get a realistic estimate for your particular project is to talk to local contractors. But as a general guideline, expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $200 (and up) per square foot.

22 Dream Homes 2014

Tips for Hiring a Contractor When remodeling or renovating your home, the biggest decision you’ll make is hiring the contractor. It’s your home and your investment, so don’t feel pressured to make a quick decision. In fact, if you feel pressured, that should tell you something about that contractor. Take your time and ask a lot of questions. To help you get started, here’s a checklist of tips and questions you’ll want to get answered.

Dream Homes 2014 23

1) Finding a contractor.

__ Talk to friends who have had similar work completed. They can tell you about their experience and provide names and contact information of contractors. __ Visit home shows. Talk to contractors. Look at portfolios and examples of their work. __ Check websites of local contractors. __ Contact local home builder and remodeler associations for a list of members.

2) Planning the project.

__ Have a plan. If you are planning a major renovation you may want to hire an architect or designer. If you don’t have a plan in hand, consider hiring a design/build firm. __ Prepare a written description of what you want done. Be as specific as possible. Make a copy of your notes for the contractor. 3) Meeting with contractors. Select several contractors to discuss your project with. Get to know them and their work. Ask the following questions: __ How long have you been in business? The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) advises consumers that it usually takes three to five years to establish a financially sound business. You want to be sure that the contractor will be around after the project is complete to service any warranties. __ Does the contractor have a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers? __ Are you and your sub-contractors licensed to do plumbing and electrical? __ Do you have a project portfolio? __ Do you use your own crew for the work or will you use subcontractors? __ Do you carry worker’s compensation and liability insurance? __ Do you provide a written contract? __ Will you apply for permits (building, electrical, plumbing)? __ What kind of warranty do you offer and what does it cover? __ How and when do you clean up, particularly dust?

__ Do you have a list of references? __ Ask to see examples of the contractor’s work completed and in progress. Check the quality of workmanship and materials. 4) Getting Estimates or Proposals. When you request an estimate be as specific as you can. You may want to discuss your budget for the project. __ Provide the contractor with a list of items and materials you want to use. For example: cabinets, doors, flooring, fixtures, tiles, finishes, lighting, etc. __ Ask the contractor to submit the bid in person so that you can discuss the estimate with him. Review the estimate carefully. Be sure that everything you ask for is included. __ Ask the contractor for a construction schedule. 5) Get it in Writing. For your protection and peace of mind, ALWAYS GET IT IN WRITING! __ The contractor should provide a clearly written contract. Review it carefully. 6) Choosing a contractor. Before making your final decision, make sure you can get along with the contractor and can communicate well. The contractor should be knowledgeable and willing to offer ideas. __ Call the contractor’s references. Ask about their satisfaction with the contractor and the work. __ Call the local Better Business Bureau to check for complaints that may have been filed against the contractor. __ Look for a fair price. Don’t automatically accept the lowest estimate. It may be unrealistic or the contractor may be seeking an advantage over competitors which may later result in unexpected costs. NAHB advises consumers to be cautious of unusually low priced bids. If the builder is unable to pay for the materials and labor as the project proceeds, this may indicate a potential problem. Finally, and most importantly, when you hire a contractor consider reputation, knowledge, reliability and willingness to stand behind the work. Choose the contractor you feel will give you the best overall value for your investment.

24 Dream Homes 2014

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Dream Homes 2014 25

Stately Reynolds has it all By Associated Designs

Balcony 23'8'' x 12'

off after coming in with muddy footgear and/or clothes. A two-sided fireplace can be enjoyed from the great room as well as the poolroom, which has a full bar with a bottle storage closet behind it. Pocket doors on both sides of the Owners’ Suite fireplace allow the two large rooms 18' x 19'8'' to be opened or closed to each other. All of the bedrooms are upstairs. Each boasts direct balcony access plus a walk-in closet. The Reynolds’ owners’ suite is, of course, expansive and luxurious. Visit AssociatedDesigns Storage .com for more information or 11'4''x19'6'' to search our home plans. A review plan of the Reynolds 30-396, including floor plans, elevations, section, and artist’s conception, can be purchased for $25. Our home plan catalog, featuring 550 home plans, Patio costs $15. Both are available online, by mail or phone. Add Nook $5 s/h. Associated Designs, 13' x 11'4'' 1100 Jacobs Dr., Eugene, OR 97402, (800) 634-0123. Utility

A handsome and stately contemporary plan, the ReynBedroom 13' x 13'8'' olds offers close to 4,000 Open to Great Room square feet of indoor living Below space, plus a three-car garage with plenty of storage. Smooth painted columns Library Loft Dn 17' x 9'8'' support the graceful entry. Stepped brick detailing rims arched openings to windows and doors, while sidelights and Open transoms provide additional Bedroom to sparkling accents to the lofty entry. 13' x 11'8'' Entry Stepping inside the vaulted foyer, you can’t help being impressed by the sense of spaciousness. The high ceiling here angles to become fully two stories up in the great room, which is straight ahead. A loft/library bridges and overlooks the first floor, front and back. Covered To the left of the foyer is Patio a den (or home office). On the right, a wide arched opening leads into the dinPool Room 16' x 27' ing room, which is linked to 2-Story Great Kitchen the kitchen via a pass Room through with a built-in buf17' x 23' fet. A large walk-in pantry is opposite the buffet. The kitchen and nook are bright and spacious. A Up raised conversation bar deDining Garage Vaulted fines the two spaces, and an 12' x 17'4'' Den Foyer 23' x 35'2'' eating bar edges one side of a 13' x 11'8'' work island with a vegetable sink. © 2012 Entry The adjacent utility room is larger Associated Porch than most, and has a bathroom Designs, Inc. specially designed for cleaning

Reynolds PLAN 30-396

First Floor 2345 sq.ft. Second Floor 1637 sq.ft. Living Area 3982 sq.ft. Storage 313 sq.ft. Garage 833 sq.ft. Dimensions 66'x66' 3000 SERIES www.AssociatedDesigns.com

26 Dream Homes 2014

Top Architecture Trends For 2014 Real Estate Review By: Angela Colley

New home construction has seen consistent growth in the last three years and sales of new homes are expected to increase by about 16 percent, or 580,000 homes, in 2014, according to Kiplinger’s Economic Outlooks. And as more homes are built, new architecture trends will begin to appear — slowly. “Building is not an industry where big changes happen really fast,” said Amy Albert, editor of Custom Home Online. ”Things happen over time.” Still, Albert named five home-design elements she expects to see more often in 2014: 1. Tranquility More homeowners are seeing their homes as a place to get away from it all and relax, especially in certain rooms — particularly the bathroom. “The spa bathroom is really big as a result of more people traveling to nice hotels,” Albert said. In 2014, we’re likely to see bathrooms with walk-in showers, roomy bathtubs and tranquil designs become a big trend for homeowners. 2. Mission Control In the past the kitchen was often built at the back of the house, attached to the garage, and away from high traffic areas, but that tradition is changing. In 2014 we’ll see the kitchen as the focal point of the house, often placed in the center of an open floor plan, especially as more homeowners start to use their kitchen space as a multitasking room, or as Albert calls it, “mission control.” By having the kitchen centered and open, parents can help children with homework, talk or pay bills — all while making meals.

3. Traditional Design While “midcentury modern design is thriving” and will continue to do so in 2014, more homeowners are looking at traditional home styles, Albert said. For example, Craftsman homes with large porches, front columns and detailed gables will make a comeback in 2014. Queen Anne-style homes with asymmetrical facades and detailed gables may also see a resurgence. However, attention to detail will be important as homeowners look for exact replicas of the original styles. 4. Passive Homes More U.S.-based architects are expected to include passive-house elements in their 2014 designs. Originally a European design, a passive house is built to work with the climate. For example, its roof may be pitched to make use of wind power, or it could have large windows installed to attract sunlight that heats the home. A passive-house design can slash energy consumption by up to 90 percent, according to Passive House Institute U.S. 5. Flex Rooms Between the recession and the growing number of senior citizens in the United States, more households are becoming multigenerational. That change is leading to a developing trend in home building – flex rooms. Typically bedrooms, flex rooms are designed to give more privacy to larger families and usually include a separate space such as a reading area or study off the main bedroom area. These rooms may also be built with a change in mind. “Many flex spaces include a private entrance, which could later become a rental unit,” Albert said.

Dream Homes 2014 27

Riverside has wide open gathering spaces

nestles into the living room’s inner and two bedrooms. Just past a 10-foot-high display corner. A flush eating bar rims the side of shelf at the farCovered end of the hall, the Craftsman elements and a Patio into a vaulted, a peninsular counter that bounds the prairie-style hipped roof give an space opens out Patio 12' x 8' space that C-shaped kitchen, transforming it intriguing appearance to this up-to- window-bright gathering date ranch-style home. Craftsman comprises a living room, dining into more of a G shape. The built-in Covered to both the features Patio include windows with room, and kitchen. The ceiling desk there is convenient Riverside Patio slopes down toward the rear, whereKitchen dining area andPLAN the kitchen, multipaned uppers, and the tapered x 8' 30 -658 while Owners’ Suite 12' Vaulted 10'2" x sliding glass doors Dining a roomy walk-in pantry fills wooden columns set atop stone Vaulted 15' x 15' Living Area 1908 sq.ft. 12'8" provide access to one entire corner. A wide veneer bases. 10' x 12'8" Living Riverside Garage 471kitchen sq.ft. Riverside covered window fronts the Entering via the nostalgic front17'6"a xpartially 17'4" Kitchen PLAN Suiteporch, you step into a vaulted Vaulted PLAN30 30-658 -658 54' xwork57' mess-free sink, Dimensions allowing those entry patio. A10'2" x 15' Dining Vaulted Living Area 1908 sq.ft. 1000 SERIES Living Area 1908 sq.ft. 12'8" fireplace ing there to keep an eye on that slopes Living up toward the rear. 10' xAn 12'8" gas Garage 471 www.AssociatedDesigns.com the backyard. arched opening on Garage 471sq.ft. sq.ft. 17'6" x 17'4" Dimensions 54' An arched opening near the right leads to Dimensions Bedroom 54'x x57' 57' 11'2" x 10'6" the fireplace leads into a 1000 SERIES a full bathroom 1000 SERIES Covered Patio hallway with links to the den, www.AssociatedDesigns.com Patio www.AssociatedDesigns.com owners’ suite, and a pass12' x 8' Bedroom 11'2" x 10'6" through utility room that connects Vaulted with the two-car garage. If Entry desirable for use as a home office, Kitchen DenVaulted Owners’ Suite 10'2" x a door could be added to provide a 11' x 14'2" 15' x 15' Dining Vaulted Vaulted 12'8" 10' x 12'8" more direct path between the Living Bedroom Entry 17'6" x 17'4" entry and den. 11'2" x Riverside’s 10'6" Den The owners’ suite has a private 11' Garage x 14'2" 21' x 22' bathroom with a dual vanity, and a Bedroom Covered 11'2" x 10'6" Porch separately enclosed toilet and Garage Bedroom shower. Pocket doors to the large 1' x 22' 11'2" x 10'6" walk-in closet allow entry or Covered Porch concealment. For© 2008 a review plan, including Associated Designs, Inc. Vaulted scaled floor plans, elevations, section Entry and artist’s conception, send $25 Den to Associated Designs, 1100 Jacobs © 2008 Associated Designs, Inc. 11' x 14'2" Dr., Eugene, OR 97402. Please Bedroom specify the Riverside 30-658 and 11'2" x 10'6" Garage include a return address when 21' x 22' ordering. A catalog featuring more Covered Porch than 550 home plans is available for $15. For more information, call (800) 634-0123, or visit our website at www.AssociatedDesigns.com. © 2008 Associated Designs, Inc. Utility

Utility

By Associated Designs

28 Dream Homes 2014

Stately Roxbury has contemporary plan By Associated Designs

around four sides of the comfortably large kitchen. Features here include: a central work island, built- in appliances, skylight, walk-in pantry, and a desk. Utilities and a half-bath are nearby, equally convenient to the three-car garage with built-in storage closets. The hallway bench is ideal for removing muddy footgear. Except for the guest suite, bedrooms are upstairs and every bedroom has its own bathroom.

The Roxbury's owners’ suite is large, private and luxurious. His 'n' hers walk-in closets flank the passageway to a tiled bathroom with two vanities, spa tub, and enclosed toilet and shower. Skylights brighten the owners’ suite, a bedroom, and a huge bonus room over the garage. Visit AssociatedDesigns.com for more information or to search our home plans. A review plan of the Roxbury 30-187, including floor plans, elevations, section, and artist’s conception, Patio can be purchased for $25. 39'6'' x 14' Our home plan catalog, featurTwo-Story ing more than Guest Living Dn Suite 550 home plans, 20' x 17'4'' 12' x 14'4'' Nook costs $15. Both 11'6'' x 21' Dn are available online, by mail or Twophone. Add $5 Up Story s/h. Associated Foyer Den Designs, 1100 Dining 14'2'' x 14'8'' Up Jacobs Dr., Eu16'2'' x 13' gene, OR 97402, (800) 634-0123. Porch

Utility

Symmetry, columns, and keystone-accented arched windows give the Roxbury a distinctly colonial flavor. But inside, this estatesize home is clearly contemporary. Entering through the barrelvaulted porch, you step into an elegant and spacious tiled foyer with a graceful curved staircase. The ceiling here, and in the living room, is a lofty two stories high. To the left is a stately dining room; to the right, a large room with a fireplace. This room could be Covered Patio furnished as a den, home 14' x 8' office, library, or entertainment center. A railed balcony overlooks both the foyer and sunken living room. With Kitchen windows filling most of Garage 22'8'' x 40'4'' the rear wall, and more light spilling down through twin skylights, © 2012 Associated this expansive space is Designs, Inc. also exceptionally bright. The fireplace provides warmth and color when the Roxbury weather turns dark PLAN 30 -187 and cold. First Floor 2410 sq.ft. In the nook, French doors offer Second Floor 1612 sq.ft. Living Area 4022 sq.ft. access to a large paBonus Room tio, and sliding Bonus Room 598 sq.ft. 25'6'' x 19' doors allow separaGarage 945 sq.ft. tion or openness to Dimensions 84'x 55'2'' the kitchen. ESTATE SERIES Cupboard and counter space wrap www.AssociatedDesigns.com

Bedroom 14'2'' x 13'

Open to Living

Dn Balcony Dn

Open to Foyer Bedroom 14'4'' x 13'

Owners’ Suite 14'2'' x 18'6''

Dream Homes 2014 29

Sunny Sedona has large family space By Associated Designs

sides of the kitchen, which is vaulted like the Patio rest of this roomy gathering space. It also boasts a large pantry, and has a cook top built into its work island. Wide sliding glass doors in the dining room open onto a generously sized, curve-edged Vaulted patio.

Secondary bedrooms, a powder room, and shared bathroom are to the right of the Sedona's foyer. The front bedroom has a vaulted ceiling and dramatic arched window. The den and owners' suite are well isolated, off to the left of the Sedona living room. Owners' suite amenities PLAN 30-568 include a spa tub, walk-in closet, shower, and Living Area oversize 2011 sq.ft. dual vanity. Garage 441 sq.ft. Visit AssociatedDesigns Dimensions 46'8'' x 73' .com for more information SERIES or2000 to search our home plans. www.AssociatedDesigns.com A review plan of the Sedona 30-568, including floor plans, Vaulted elevations, section, and Dining artist’s conception, can be 10' x 13' purchased for $25. Our home plan catalog, featuring more than 550 home plans, costs $15. Both are available online, by mail or phone. Add $5 s/h. Associated Designs, 1100 Jacobs Dr., Eugene, OR 97402, (800) 634-0123.

V K au itc lte he d n

Gallery

V K au itc lte he d n

Porch Va K u itc lte he d n

Vaulted Foyer

Gallery

Utility

Vaulted Foyer Porch

Utility

Owners’ The Sedona's stuccoSuite exterior and 16'the x 12'4" corner quoins put viewer in mind of a neo-classical home one might expect to find near the sun-washed Mediterranean. The entry’s Tuscan column adds a touch of classical eleDining Vaulted 10' x 13' gance, as do gentle arches and keyLiving stones, highlighted by 16'4" x 20'4" raised stucco trim. Entering, you step Patio Owners’ Suite into a naturally illumi16' x 12'4" nated, vaulted foyer Den with an arched opening 12'8" x 10' that feeds into a vaulted gallery with a wide closet along the right. Vaulted Bedroom Living Light spills in through 10'6" x 11' 16'4" x 20'4" an arched transom. The next hallway arch opens out into a bright Garage 19' x 22' and spacious vaulted living Den and dining room. Patio 12'8" x 10' On the left, a multi-level © 2014 Owners’ Suite Associated Designs, Inc. home entertainment center 16' x 12'4" fills most of the wall. It can Bedroom easily house a large-screen 10'6" x 11' Vaulted TV, along with a number of Bedroom Vaulted other electronic components. 12' x 11' Dining Garage A is fireplace nestled into Vaulted 19' x 22' 10' x 13' Living the corner next to the wide 16'4" x 20'4" rear windows, where it offers warmth and the relax© 2014 Associated Designs, Inc. ation of flame-watching on dark nights and drab days. The dining area and kitchen Vaulted Denare Bedroom open to each other on the right. A 12'8" x 10' 12' x 11' raised eating bar rims the work island. Counters wrap around two

Bedroom

Sedona Sedona

PLAN PLAN 30-568 30-568 Living Living Area Area 2011 2011sq.ft. sq.ft. Garage 441 Garage 441sq.ft. sq.ft. Dimensions Dimensions 46'8'' 46'8''xx73' 73' 2000 2000 SERIES SERIES www.AssociatedDesigns.com www.AssociatedDesigns.com

30 Dream Homes 2014

8 Remodeling Projects That Pay Back

Reface Your Kitchen Cabinets Rather than redoing the entire kitchen for $25,000-$50,000, resurfacing your cabinets is an easy, cost-effective upgrade. Having your cabinets repainted will cost you between $4,000-$6,000, but handy homeowners might tackle the project themselves. A slightly pricier option ($6,000 to $15,000 in most markets) is to have professionals refurbish your wood cabinets with a new look, giving them a darker finish (shown here) or lightening them up. While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at it, upgrade the cabinet hardware. Small kitchen upgrades like these can recoup about 83% of the cost when its time to sell. Replace the Sinks and Faucets Kitchen sinks may get no respect, but they sure get a lot of use. Sinks have come a long way in design

and function. The current trend is toward undermounted sinks (shown here), which looks great and are easier to clean. Such cast-iron and stainless steel sinks cost around $1,000. If you replace a sink, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll probably want to spring for a new kitchen faucet, too. Luxury high-

Dream Homes 2014 31

neck faucets like the one shown here can cost upwards of $1,000. But the investment will likely pay off when you go to sell. Replace Your Countertops Have your kitchen countertops seen better days? Natural stone counter tops, such as granite, have dominated the market for some time, but cheaper, traditional materials are now making a comeback. Improved laminate countertops are the more affordable options at $25 to $50 per linear foot and silestone carries a $50-$125 per linear foot price tag. For a more expensive designer look, concrete or recycled glass might be attractive options Say Hello to New Toilets and Tubs Toilets and tubs fit over present plumbing, and are fairly easy to install. Local home improvement outlets usually provide installation at an additional cost. You could hire a plumber separately. Brave souls might even try to do it themselves. Toilets cost between $200-$600. Tub prices run between $350-$1,000. A big catch: removing the old units generally costs between $300 and $550. But a midrange bathroom upgrade like this will typically recoup 78% when you sell your home. In considering a new toilet, shop for modern units that conserve water. Replace Your Bathroom Cabinets and Sinks Bathrooms sinks and vanities have become home fashion statements of late, with the rising popularity of sleek stand-alone bowl sinks or sturdy, undermounted vanities like the one shown here. Replacements can cost anywhere from $1,000-$3,000, plus installation. Faucets range in price from $200-800. If you can afford the extra cost, consider going for it. When you sell your home, your upscale bathroom remodel should return around 70% of your investment. Re-Roofing Your Home Roofing is labor-intensive, so it’s not cheap. The typical cost of laying a new roof on a mid-sized house is between $12,000-$15,000. Slate and tin roof installation costs more. But most roofing shingles now come with a 20-year

warranty, and upgraded shingles often come with a 3050 year warranty. A new roof can make a big difference in the curbside appeal of your home. Most roofing upgrades will recoup around 63% of their cost when you sell, according to experts. Replace Your Home’s Siding Most vinyl replacement jobs cost $10,000-$12,000 for a mid-sized home. But vinyl usually comes with a 20-year durability guarantee and it’s quick and easy to install. Fiber-cement is more expensive option at $13,000 for a typical job. The siding comes in numerous colors and textures, and has a 50 year durability guarantee. By replacing your siding you can expect to recoup up to 87% of the project’s cost. Replace Your Old Windows Besides keeping you warmer (the energy-efficiency of modern windows has soared compared to the windows of 20 years ago), new windows can be a major selling point. You can expect to recoup around 78% of an investment in window replacement. The average cost for replacement on a typical home: $10,000-$18,000. On note of caution: Depending on your choice, you might have to replace the window frame as well as the trim, and that will cost you more Source: http://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/real-estate/ T029-S001-8-remodeling-projects-that-pay-back/index. html

32 Dream Homes 2014

How to Stay on Budget With a Home Renovation by Benjamin Feldman

iving your home a makeover is one of the most satisfying G things you can do. There’s nothing like starting with a vision of what your house could become, working hard to make it happen, and then seeing the results right in front of your eyes. And not only is it satisfying, it can be potentially very financially rewarding, too! If you do it right, a home renovation or remodel could add a lot to the value of your home. Of course, the financial benefit depends entirely on how much you spend during the renovation. You need to start with a budget and be sure you stick to it. Otherwise, you’ll end up spending way more than expected, which will wipe away any extra value you’re adding to your house. How do you make it work? The tips below will help you stay on budget with any future home renovations you undertake. 1. Respect the Current Blueprint of Your House If you know from the very beginning of the process that you’ll be utilizing the current layout of your house (for the most part), you can minimize your costs. Why? Because often the most expensive aspect of a remodel is taking out existing walls, doors or ceilings and replacing them with new ones — in new areas of the house. It’s not uncommon to have some complaints with how your house is laid out, but if you want to stay on budget, it’s best to keep yourself grounded and not get carried away with expensive and complex layout changes that may not pay off in the long run. This is doubly true for moving bathroom and kitchen hookups — keep them in the same place to save yourself a lot of headaches and cash. 2. Re-Imagine Your Furniture Before You Replace It You might be tempted to replace your furniture with a home renovation, but this can cost upwards of several thousand dollars. And the truth is you might not need a new couch (for example) — maybe you just need a new cover for it. So before you sell that old furniture and get wrapped up in newfurniture-shopping fever, ask yourself if reupholstering would have an equally pleasing result. This way, you get the best of both worlds. Your furniture will look and feel new and you’ll save a good chunk of change that will help you stay on budget. If you’re up for experimenting, you can even try using a slipcover for that trusty couch or recliner. If you find the right size, a nice pullover cover can look fantastic on your old furniture. And at a fraction of the cost of replacing it. 3. Do It Yourself (but Not the Whole Project) All of us who watch HGTV dream of doing an entire glorious home renovation on our own. While taking on certain parts of the job yourself can save you money, it’s important to understand that you have limits and some aspects of the renovation need to be left to the professionals. If you’re overly

optimistic about your abilities, you will likely end up making mistakes that have to be fixed later. That’s a great way to spend more than necessary — and you can’t afford that if you’re aiming to meet your budget. A few things that you can usually do on your own are: interior painting and minor demolition. Just be sure to talk to an expert before getting started. 4. Look for Discounts on New Items There will be some things you may have to buy brand new — such as granite countertops and appliances. That’s fine, but before paying full price, see if you can find a discounted item. For example, if you’re committed to doing granite countertops but wary of the cost, you can ask the manufacturer for the least expensive pattern (which will likely still look quite classy), and for even more savings inquire about any stone pieces that may have small imperfections. You can get these at a steep discount, and if you install them thoughtfully the imperfections may not even be visible. Along the same lines, when shopping for appliances, you can ask if there are any “scratched” or “dinged” models available for a discount. Whether you own your home outright or still have a mortgage, being cost-conscious is imperative for any “reno.” No matter what tactics you end up using to save money on your home renovation, just remember that the process is supposed to be fun and that staying within your budget is more important than striving for perfection. If you can complete your remodel for the original cost you laid out at the beginning, you’ll no doubt be more than satisfied with the result. And most likely, any prospective home buyer will be too! Source: http://blog.credit.com/2013/09/stay-on-budget-with-a-homerenovation/?utm_source=MSN&utm_medium=content&utm_content=BO_1&utm_ campaign=spend_home_improvement

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Dream Homes 2014 33

Informal Sierra offers panoramic views By Associated Designs

family mementos. Utilities are in with a combination tub and shower. For a review plan, including the hallway that leads to the ownBasically a hexagon with wings, ers’ suite, hidden behind folding scaled floor plans, elevations, section and artist’s conception, send the Sierra is bright, open and infor- doors. In the owners’ suite, the ceiling $25 to Associated Designs, 1100 mal. Its wealth of windows allows full appreciation of a panoramic is vaulted and a sliding glass door Jacobs Dr., Eugene, OR 97402. opens onto the patio. Luxuries in- Please specify the Sierra 11-076 view to the rear. Families that prefer an informal clude a huge walk-in closet, over- and include a return address when home, where living spaces are sized shower, double vanity and ordering. A catalog featuring more separately enclosed water than 550 home plans is available open and unhinfor $15. For more information, call closet. dered by walls, will Sierra Secondary bedrooms in (800) 634-0123, or visit our website enjoy this plan. PLAN 11- 076 the Sierra share a bathroom at www.AssociatedDesigns.com. Group living spacLiving Area 1975 sq.ft. es cluster together Garage 430 sq.ft. in the great room where the vaulted Dimensions 70'10"x 68'2" Patio ceiling begins high, 1000 SERIES and slopes up to a www.AssociatedDesigns.com lofty central peak. Three sections of the rear wall are mostly glass. Arched clerestory Vaulted windows crown six banks of mulGreat Room 38'10" x 27'5" tipaned windows, providing amDining ple natural light to the great room. Two sets are acPatio Patio tually French doors, which swing open to Kitchen access the wide patio Bedroom that spans the entire rear 10'4" x 12'10" facade. Entry Vaulted The kitchen has counters Owners’ Suite on four sides, but the two sides 12' x 19' Porch Bedroom facing into the great room are 12'3" x 10' open above counter level. Standing at the sink, you gaze into the dining room and by simply turning Bedroom your head you can enjoy the full panoramic view out the rear. Dn Garage The owners’ suite is to the left, 19' x 21' secondary bedrooms and garage to Garage the right. Glassed-in display shelves © 2009 Associated 19' x 21' Designs, Inc. are directly in front of the entry, Alternate Basement Stairs ideal for displaying art objects or

34 Dream Homes 2014

Compact Tealwood suprisingly spacious By Associated Designs

fitted with cupboards and an L- for $25. Our home plan catalog, featuring over 550 home plans, costs shaped counter. Coat and storage closets line the $15. Both are available online, by The Tealwood is a compact home leading to the owners’ suite. mail or phone. Add $5 s/h. Associatwith a surprisingly spacious feel. hallway © 2012 Designs, Inc. include: a large Amenities here ed Designs, 1100 Jacobs Dr., EuThis plan is designed to fit on aAssociated small lot, with room to spare. And walk-in closet, and owners’ bath- gene, OR 97402, (800) 634-0123. its footprint is almost square: 47’ by room with dual vanity, shower, andOwners’ 50’. When it comes to maintenance private toilet. The Tealwood’s two Suite 12'2'' x 15' Tealwood and energy efficiency, the absence front bedrooms Garage share another bathTealwood PLAN 30-440 30-440 of angles and rambling exterior room.22' x 20' PLAN PLAN 30-440 Visit AssociatedDesigns.com for walls is a definite plus. Its owners Living Area 1456 sq.ft. sq.ft. Living Area 1456 Area 1456 sq.ft.than average more information or to search our canLiving expect to see lower Garage 422 sq.ft. Garage 422 sq.ft. Garage 422 sq.ft. utility bills as a result, both summer home plans. A review plan of the Dimensions 47'x 50' Dimensions 47'x 50' Tealwood 30-440, including floor andDimensions winter. 47'x 50' Bedroom 1000 SERIES 1000 SERIES A covered porch and an impres- plans, elevations, section, and 1000 SERIES 11' x 11' www.AssociatedDesigns.com sive array of sparkling windows artist’s conception, can be purchased www.AssociatedDesigns.com www.AssociatedDesigns.com grace the front façade. Then the Kitchen porch goes on to wrap around the x 9'6'' © 201212'4'' Associated Designs, Inc. side. Inside, the combination living room and dining room is awash in Owners’ natural light, gently muted by the Living Suite porch overhang. 12'2'' x 15' Garage 17'4'' x 16'10'' The kitchen fills more than a Dining 22' x 20' 11'4'' x 11' quarter of this large, open gathering space. Nothing more than a work island with a raised eating bar separates the areas. People Bedroom Bedroom working in the kitchen need never 11' x11' 11'x 11' feel left out of conversations or acKitchen Covered Porch tivities elsewhere in the room. 12'4'' x 9'6'' Standing at the kitchen sink, one can also keep an eye on the side porch, and enjoy watching the seaLiving 17'4'' x 16'10'' sons cycle through their changes. Dining An atrium or French door in the 11'4'' x 11' dining room provides direct access to the covered porch, a delightful spot for outdoor dining. Two doors Bedroom 11' x 11' across the room open into the utility room and the garage. The utility Covered Porch room is exceptionally large for a home this size. It’s also well-outCovered Porch

Utility

Covered Porch

Utility

Tealwood

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