Strategies for a Kitchen Makeover

Homeowners spend more money on kitchen remodeling than on any other home improvement project, and with good reason. Kitchens are the hub of home life and a source of pride.

You can recover a significant portion of kitchen remodeling costs through the value the project brings to your home. A complete kitchen renovation with a national median cost of $80,000 recovers about 75% of the initial project cost at the home’s resale, according to the “Remodeling Impact Report” from the National Association of REALTORS®.

The project gets a big thumbs-up from homeowners, too. Those polled in the report gave their new kitchen a “joy score” of 9.8 (out of 10!), a rating based on those who said they were happy or satisfied with their remodeling.

To help ensure you get a good return on your kitchen remodel, follow these tips:

Be Realistic About Appliances

It’s easy to get carried away when planning your new kitchen. A six-burner commercial-grade range and luxury-brand refrigerator may make eye-catching centerpieces, but they may not fit your cooking needs or lifestyle.

Appliances are essentially tools used to cook and store food. Your kitchen remodel shouldn’t be about the tools, but the design and functionality of the entire kitchen. So, unless you’re an exceptional cook who cooks a lot, concentrate your dollars on long-term features that add value, such as cabinets and flooring.

Then choose appliances made by trusted brands that have high marks in online reviews and “Consumer Reports.”

Keep the Same Footprint

Nothing will drive up the cost of a remodel faster than changing the location of plumbing pipes and electrical outlets, and knocking down walls. This is usually where unforeseen problems occur.

So, if possible, keep appliances, water fixtures, and walls in the same location. Not only will you save on demolition and reconstruction costs, you’ll cut the amount of dust and debris your project generates.

Call us at DBI Kitchen and Bath

We are an Accredited Business Member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB). DBI carries an A+ rating which means that we have chosen to be accountable. Also, we continue to demonstrate good faith to our community. We do this through our business relationships and our operations. DBI Kitchen and Bath commits to responsible construction practices. We install sustainable and energy-efficient materials.

Bathroom Remodeling Tips Maryville Tennessee

There’s something special about a great bathroom.  When we find ourselves in a beautiful bathroom, it’s easy to feel calm, happy, and a little bit fancy.

If you’re  looking for bathroom remodeling ideas, you might be feeling overwhelmed by the choices. Bathroom renovation magazines and websites are full of stunning designs that each look as lovely as the last.

It can be subconscious, but we’re drawn to bathrooms that have been thoughtfully designed to meet our needs perfectly.

Many considerations go into creating a bathroom that makes you smile each time you look at it.

Create a Budget

When you get the chance to transform your home into the exact style you want, you’re making an investment in your property and yourself. Home and bathroom remodeling can cost as much as you let it, and without a solid budget, costs can spiral.

The solution is to research local custom building costs, set a realistic budget, and then try to stick to it. This can be easier if you choose a remodeling contractor or design-build firm that offers fixed pricing rather than estimates.

Bathroom remodels can get expensive quickly, due to labor costs and, to a lesser extent, materials. Top bathroom general contractors and the licensed subcontractors they work with are skilled professionals, and they are in demand. If you want to upgrade your existing bathroom to higher-end materials, you’ll need to factor in the cost of everything from tiles to a bathtub.

To create your budget, you’ll need to take into consideration a few things:

• Are you looking to sell within a few years?
• Do you want to change the location of plumbed-in items?
• What parts of the new bathroom are absolutely essential?
• What can you afford to invest?

Develop a Bathroom Layout

So you’ve settled on the type of bathroom you’re installing or redoing (half or full bath, wet bath or standard). Now it’s time to think about layout. Depending on the shape and size of the area you have to work with, there are countless variations in bathroom layout.

Important tip: Before you think about the aesthetics of your bathroom remodel, you have to nail down the layout.

Rearranging plumbing fixtures (and walls) can quickly drive up the cost of your bathroom remodel, and if you can leave well enough alone, then do.

Sometimes the existing layout simply doesn’t work.

You might need to change the layout for any number of reasons. And that’s when it can get tricky.

When you’re looking at your existing bathroom, that image gets stuck in your head. It can be a mental leap to re-imagine it as anything other than its original form.

In general, the smaller the space, the fewer layout choices you will be confronted with. There are only so many ways you can fit a tub, sink, and toilet into an 8′ x 8′ footprint. Obviously, more space opens up more possibilities and more opportunities for customization.

An experienced interior designer can help you make the best use of a small space. He or she can also help you customize a larger layout to fit your unique needs.

DBI Kitchen and Bath

We are an Accredited Business Member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB). DBI carries an A+ rating which means that we have chosen to be accountable. Also, we continue to demonstrate good faith to our community. We do this through our business relationships and our operations. DBI Kitchen and Bath commits to responsible construction practices. We install sustainable and energy-efficient materials.

Maryville Tennessee Kitchen Remodel Tips

Kitchens are a source of family meals, comfort, and togetherness—a place for gathering and enjoyment. A kitchen can be both comfortable and beautiful, functional and welcoming. They can achieve a balance of color, texture, and lighting that makes the heart of your home a refuge for relaxing. Integrate these kitchen remodel tips to ensure a space that is easy to work in and enjoyable to live in.

Consider a Closed Kitchen Layout

Don’t really want to knock down walls? As more families desire private spaces within their homes, closed kitchens are starting to replace the open-concept floor plans that have been popular for years. Homeowners now want to separate cooking and eating from the home’s entertainment rooms. Some even use the island as an office that needs to be siloed off from the rest of the house. Consider a pass-through window for a space that’s still bright and airy.

Use Your Counter Space Wisely

Those who cook often need more counter space. Ideally between the range and sink, than those who cook infrequently or prepare only simple meals. But allocation of space isn’t your only consideration—think about height, too. Incorporating two countertop heights makes baking easy and allows kids to participate in meal preparation. Staggered countertops can also help separate the cooktop and the dining area if you want to cook and eat at a kitchen island.

Lighten up a Small Kitchen

Dark color schemes shrink an already small space and make it less inviting. Use soft shades on kitchen cabinets and neutrals on walls to visually expand a small room. Pastels are also making a comeback, as delicate yellows and soothing blues can lighten tight spaces. Use natural light to your advantage by forgoing kitchen window treatments.

Play with Color

Whether you decide to paint all your cabinets black or you just want a splash of tranquil blue or soothing mint green, color is in for kitchens. Just make sure not to overwhelm the space with too many shades. “Yes, colorful kitchens look good, but do not overdo the color scheme,” says Mason. Maintain subtlety by choosing a focal point, like the counters or cabinets, for the primary dose of color. Stick to one main hue, then add small doses of complementary color via the backsplash or kitchen accessories.

DBI Kitchen and Bath

We are an Accredited Business Member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB). DBI carries an A+ rating which means that we have chosen to be accountable. Also, we continue to demonstrate good faith to our community. We do this through our business relationships and our operations. DBI Kitchen and Bath commits to responsible construction practices. We install sustainable and energy-efficient materials.

Tips for a Kitchen Remodel Maryville Tennessee

Kitchens are a source of family meals, comfort, and togetherness—a place for gathering and enjoyment. A kitchen can be both comfortable and beautiful, functional and welcoming. They can achieve a balance of color, texture, and lighting that makes the heart of your home a refuge for relaxing. Integrate these kitchen remodel tips to ensure a space that is easy to work in and enjoyable to live in.

Plan Ahead

Before you hang the first cabinet, ask yourselves questions like these: What are my goals for the space? How much can I spend? What can’t I live without? Every kitchen and each family is unique in its must-haves, so spend some time outlining your ideal space. Also, figure out whether you can achieve that within your budget.

Eliminate Wasted Space

As you plan your new layout, think about how and where you use kitchen items. Organize your cabinetry so you can store breakfast foods and bowls near the breakfast table. Keep foil, plastic wrap, and containers in a spot near a work surface for wrapping leftovers. Locate dishware and flatware near the dishwasher to ease the process of unloading. If you can make your kitchen more efficient, you’ll also make it more enjoyable.

Build an Accessible Kitchen

Ensure everyone can take part in the happy times. To make your kitchen more inclusive, consider a ground-floor plan that places the oven, drawers, and shelves at an accessible height. Lowering countertop height and leaving adequate space for walkways allows ease of movement. A home should be a place where people of all abilities can feel welcomed, respected, and included.” A remodel is the perfect time to design an accessible kitchen, especially if your home was not originally built that way.

Design Wide Walkways

You may have thought about the placement of your refrigerator in relation to the stove. But have you considered how you’ll get from one to the other? Paths through a kitchen should be at least 36 inches wide. Paths within the cooking zone should be 42 inches wide for a one-cook kitchen and 48 inches for a two-cook configuration. When planning, adjust kitchen islands and peninsulas and give yourself adequate space to move about.

DBI Kitchen and Bath

We are an Accredited Business Member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB). DBI carries an A+ rating which means that we have chosen to be accountable. Also, we continue to demonstrate good faith to our community. We do this through our business relationships and our operations. DBI Kitchen and Bath commits to responsible construction practices. We install sustainable and energy-efficient materials.

Blount County Kitchen Remodel

We are an Accredited Business Member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB). DBI carries an A+ rating which means that we have chosen to be accountable. Also, we continue to demonstrate good faith in our community. This is accomplished through our business relationships and our operations. For a superior Blount County kitchen remodel, we are the best choice.

Tips for a Successful Kitchen Remodel

We have a designer on staff with over 30 years of professional cabinet experience. They are here to help you every step of the way. We will handle all the details for you. This includes measuring, design layout, and finish/fixture consultation as needed.

3D Renders

At DBI, we will take the time to thoughtfully layout your space in our design software. We present to you in full-color 3D—you will be amazed at how this will help you visualize your space! Layout design is complimentary, and we will work with you until it is exactly how you want it. Other cabinetry suppliers may offer quick and extremely basic design layouts, but we put thought into it! We not only want it to be right, but we want it to be right for YOU!

Decorative backsplash rack

Backsplash racks offer easy access and stylish storage. Most versions take just a few minutes to install. Type “backsplash rack” into any online search engine to find a range of styles. You’ll also find a range of prices (up to $60 per foot!). 

Try an island before you buy

If you want more counter and storage space, then adding a center island may be worth the cost. But an island can limit the number of people working in the kitchen, reduce traffic flow to one way with no passing, and make for cramped quarters. Try out an island before committing to one. Slap together a full-scale model out of cardboard or plywood and live with it for a few days. Make sure you can open your stove and refrigerator doors. No space for an island? Consider a kitchen trolley instead.

DBI Kitchen and Bath

Are you ready for a bathroom renovation? At DBI Kitchen and Bath, we work with all types of projects, big and small. We have worked with many families, businesses, and realtors in the area who have been pleased with our practice. Schedule a consultation with our team to discuss your plans!

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Planning A Bathroom Remodel

Planning a bathroom remodel? DBI would love to help. We offer free consultations; but, here are some tips to get you dreaming!

Vision Board

Start with a vision board. Whether you’re cutting photos from magazines and ads or using a digital version like Pinterest or just saving images from Instagram or other online sources… SAVE everything that speaks to you.

Set Goals

Define your priorities and set goals. A remodel can get overwhelming quickly, but rank every choice by priorities. Are you wanting to make your space family-friendly or user-friendly? Do you need more storage? Are you looking to mainly update colors? What DIY muscles are you prepared to flex? How much time do you want to spend on this makeover? Sometimes a makeover can be as simple as paint (even on tile and on cabinets), and sometimes you’re ready to truly go for it and fully demo a space first… this is something you should decide BEFORE you even begin, or you can find yourself in too deep, and quickly.

Measure

Measure, measure, and then measure again. From the size vanity, you need/want, to the amount of tile or paint you’ll need. From the door size to the shower opening, etc. For every part of the design that you’ll be updating and/or replacing, make sure you take detailed measurements. It’s much quicker to measure a couple of times and write those measurements down than it is to make a purchase or order only to find it won’t fit or work in your space.

Lay Out

Lay it out first. Once you have a good idea of what you want to happen in the space, find photos online or pictures of the items you want to use and lay them out so you can see how they all work together.

DBI Kitchen and Bath

Are you ready for a bathroom renovation? At DBI Kitchen and Bath, we work with all types of projects, big and small. We have worked with many families, businesses, and realtors in the area who have been pleased with our practice. Schedule a consultation with our team to discuss your plans!

Follow us on Facebook for our latest news and projects!

Outdoor Living for Tennessee Fall

As the seasons change it’s a good time to consider outdoor living spaces for Tennessee’s fall months.

Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens are more popular than ever. They’re a great place to cook and socialize simultaneously in an open-air space. Depending on your level of dedication to your culinary skills, your outdoor kitchen may include an oven, refrigerators, an island, and a seating area. Or, you can scale back and install an outdoor grill. Either way, cooking outside keeps unnecessary heat from competing with your air-conditioner on warm summer nights.

Fire Pits

Fire pits have become quite trendy with a variety of styles and sizes available at your local home improvement store or a with a click of the mouse on Amazon. Additionally, there are countless YouTube videos with instructions for building your fire pit. The ambiance of the fire makes for a great quiet evening or the centerpiece of a social gathering. 

Landscaping

Most new construction homes come with some landscaping. Creating a beautiful landscape around your home takes planning and time. When viewing your landscape, determine where you have full sun and partial sun, and plant appropriately. Determine where you want to have more shade and consider fast-growing trees with a canopy. Create islands within your yard with winding paths and water features. With vision, planning, and a willingness to work hard (or hire it out) you can create a desirable landscape that will enhance the curb appeal of your home, and its desirability.

DBI Kitchen and Bath

DBI Kitchen and Bath in Maryville, TN excels in both residential and commercial services.  Though our services are varied, they all come with the same promise of quality, dedication, and durability. As licensed and insured builders, we are experienced contractors with knowledge passed down from generations.

Contact Us

We look forward to meeting with you about your desire for fall outdoor living spaces. We are also happy to provide a portfolio of past work and references. Call us today to set up a free estimate to start your dream kitchen and bath remodel! 

Finish Your Maryville, Tn Basement

For a homeowner, finishing the basement is one of the easiest ways to add more living space to a home. Your family will enjoy the space, and you will increase the value of your home. But finishing a basement takes time and money. It’s not a DIY project. As one of the best remodeling services in Maryville TN, DBI Kitchen and Bath can help make your basement into a value-added living space.

Finishing the Basement

There are many reasons why finishing your basement is the right choice for your family. Listed below are reasons why you might want to consider this as an option for your home:

• Entertaining family and friends.
• Many families love to put a mini-kitchen in their finished basement for easy access to food and drink. Additionally, a finished basement is a perfect place for pool tables and home theaters.
• Working from home. Because of the COVID pandemic, many companies allow their workers to work from home. If you do not have a quiet space for your office, your basement may be the most cost-effective solution.
• Providing a dedicated playroom. As your family grows and the children age, the toys increase in both size and number. Finishing your basement not only gives your children a playroom, but it allows the main house to remain clutter-free.
• Homeschooling. For the past two years, many homes became classrooms. A finished basement allows a quiet place for study with space for school supplies.
• Accommodating guests. Whether it is a mother, guest, or kid back from college, a bedroom in the finished basement gives everyone their own private space.

Simply adding more square footage to the home also is one huge reason. With some basements going ahead and finishing it out can almost double the square footage. This is optimal for both family sanity and resale value!

As you can see, there are many ways finishing your basement adds value to your home.  If you are doing new construction or remodeling, DBI Kitchen and Bath in Maryville, TN is here to help you reach your goals!

Spa Bathroom Design Maryville, Tn

A bathroom is no longer just a place to…you know.  Instead, bathrooms are becoming personal retreats and oases to wind-down and re charge.  Especially in this post-covid era shelling out hundreds for a spa day where unknown people have, well, naked just isn’t ideal.  Instead the thing to do is add spa-like features to your bathroom remodel.  Here are some simple ways to make your bathroom rival any local spa.  DBI Kitchen and Bath can assist you in turning your old bathroom in a spa designed bathroom in Maryville, Tn.

Gold Fixtures

For a luxurious feel, we suggest trying to incorporate gold accents throughout the bathroom—cabinet handles, soap dispenser, mirror frame, towel rack, etc. This will add a touch of sophistication and luxury without giving off Hollywood Regency vibes.

Add a Light Dimmer

If you don’t have any scented candles or prefer a scent-free bathroom, try dimming the lights to make the space feel more relaxing. You can swap out your regular light bulbs for a lower wattage or install a dimmer to adjust the lighting as needed.  Also, a back-lit mirror can really set the mood.

Use Neutral Tones

Decorate your bathroom in soft creams, greys or shades of beige for it to feel clean and calm. Consider layering various shades of the same tone throughout the room to give a cohesive look to the space. You can also add rich wood, metallic, or stone tones to give your space a bold look without too many bright and exciting colors which is perfect for relaxing.

Heated Floors

Heated flooring is a luxury that many people skip over.  While they definitely come with an additional cost, the trade is a comfort like no other. Imagine stepping out of your showing in the cool of winter and being able to keep the warmth of the shower with you.  Heated floors can be the perfect addition to your spa bathroom design in Maryville, Tn.

Add Speakers

Add speakers to your bathroom to create a surround sound experience. This is perfect for playing zen music or sounds of nature while you relax. Make sure to look for a speaker that is totally safe to install in a humid location.

Mixed Materials

Mixing modern materials with more nature-inspired furniture and accents is a great way to foster a sense of zen and relaxation. Not only does it offer visual interest but it also creates a natural flow between the indoors and outdoors (even if you’re working with a small or dark bathroom!)

Let’s Get Started On Your Spa Bathroom Makeover!

We are an Accredited Business Member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB). DBI carries an A+ rating which means that we have chosen to be accountable. Also, we continue to demonstrate good faith to our community. We do this through our business relationships and our operations. DBI Kitchen and Bath commits to responsible construction practices. We install sustainable and energy-efficient materials.

Kitchenette Addition Maryville, Tn

What is a Kitchenette?

A kitchenette is a small kitchen area used for simple food and beverage preparation. A seating area could be included to make it even more functional, and it can be a great investment.  In some cases a kitchenette can provide an additional living space.  Additional living spaces are great for entertaining, in-laws, or growing children.

When it comes to kitchenettes, less is more. They shouldn’t look like your home’s upstairs kitchen with an array of full-sized appliances, an island, plus a large table and chairs. Likewise, the “ette” implies it is a smaller kitchen. The beauty of tucking a kitchenette into a corner or section of your home remodel is its simplicity that enhances your lifestyle. It should have style and flair, yet not be the main focal point of the renovation of additional living space.

Here are some ideas of things to include in your plans:

Appliances

A kitchenette should have a few appliances based on your personal needs and desires.  A mini or smaller fridge will allow storage for chilled drinks and keeping party snacks ready to replenish.  Also, a wine fridge may suit your lifestyle needs.  Further appliances to consider may include a blender, coffee maker, microwave, or toaster oven.

Bar Top Seating

Bar top seating will save space by eliminating the need for a table and chairs. The space save can be used as a living or gather area. Additionally, the bar top can serve and a buffet station for parties and serving.

Smart Storage

Consider adding enough cabinetry to keep a second set of dinette and serving wear.  This will save you from having to run back and forth to the kitchen to grab additional items.  Furthermore, guests will be able to function independently from the main kitchen as necessary.

A Full Service Home Remodeling Contractor You Can Trust

At DBI Kitchen and Bath, we understand how overwhelming it can be to desire a home renovation, and not know where to begin. We’ve helped homeowners in East Tennessee transform their home. Our design specialists educate you on material options so you can make the best choice for your vision and budget. Your renovation will come to life as we implement the plan, keeping you involved from start to finish. Get the look you desire and enjoy it for decades. We’re ready to help you realize your dreams.