3 Best Garage Rebuilding Ideas for Your New Home

Garage Remodeling in Chicago

Have you just moved into a new home and finally have a garage of your own? No rule says the space must be only for your vehicles, instead, make that space more productive by following these tips.

1. Install a Gardening Station

Use unused space in your garage to create a gardening nook to grow small plants. Start with some additional shelves, a pegboard for your gardening tools, and a workstation to ensure there is plenty of open space for fertilizer bags and other heavy-duty items.

2. Use It to Store Utility Appliances

Bulky appliances, such as your vacuum cleaner, washing machine, and even your furnace, don’t have to take up space in your home. If your garage is spacious enough, store these items, or have them installed in your garage. That way, your house will not feel cluttered and give you more living space to work with.

3. Make a Living Space Above It

Your garage can provide a solid foundation for a new game room for yourself, for your children, or even a space you can rent out for additional income. You will have nothing to worry about if you hire professionals for the job. Experienced builders take architectural cues from a garage before adding the new space on top in order to maintain structural integrity. They can also design and landscape the door leading up to the garage to make it a seamless part of the house, rather than a separate space.

4. Don’t Break the Law

Of course, before hiring builders for your rebuilding project, make sure they have the proper permits to begin work. Illinois has construction laws, which need to be adhered to, as well as regarding the location, size, and design of any new development. This is especially important for garage construction since the job requires excavation and backfill.

A reputable contractor will have permits and experience to install a new garage or make additions to an existing one so they can begin work right away. However, before hiring them, also keep in mind the cost of replacing damaged landscaping in your budget.

Whether you want to have a new garage installed or a room built on top of an existing garage in a garage remodel, get in touch with Areté Renovators for the job. We have more than 18 years of experience in new home construction and can help you realize your vision in terms of design and functionality. Besides garage rebuilding, we can also replace hardwood floors, remodel your kitchen and bathroom and paint your home, among other services.

Contact Arete’ To Discuss Garage Rebuilding Ideas In Chicago

We source only the best products for each project we undertake and are also known for having the best customer service in the construction business. So whether you live in Streeterville, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Roscoe Village, get in touch with us today for a consultation. The time and money you will lose with a DIY approach is just not worth it.

Kitchen Design Trends for 2020

Kitchen design trends show that the kitchen is now one of the main focal points in new homes. Gone are the days when the kitchen was built to the back of the house and was just used to prepare food and wash dishes. Fast forward to 2020 and that space has become the heart of a home where families come together after a long day, for celebrations and holidays.

Bring your kitchen into the new year and make it a homey and comfortable space by following these trends:

Opt for Open Shelving

Closed cabinets may keep your appliances and groceries out of sight, but they are being replaced with open and space-saving options. This includes industrial kitchen shelves, which are installed in the open to function like a bureau to hold serving and dinnerware and add a utilitarian feel.

These shelves will also encourage you to purchase appliances that take up minimal space and can double as décor. Because this trend is efficient, the trend has been quite popular in farmhouse kitchens.

Quartz is Still King

High-end kitchen counterparts made of resilient and attractive quartz are a trend that has stood the test of time and is still going strong in 2020. The reasons are simple – the material is incredibly resilient against damage, can last almost forever, and is easy to clean and disinfect. Homeowners also select granite, but it’s more difficult to clean than quartz.

Quartz countertops were not always the go-to choice for kitchen countertops. When first introduced, the lack of variety in finish and colors was a concern. However, with advances in technology, manufacturers are meeting rising demands with a range of colorful and realistic stone-patterned quartz countertops, which can make any kitchen look fabulous. This includes ones that are finished with swirl and vein patterns.

Re-design the Kitchen Sink

Today, the kitchen sink is more than just a place to wash dishes or clean produce. Today’s homeowners are having them designed as workstations where they can complete several tasks with additional accessories, such as a carving board, a beverage station, a drying rack, and a colander.

These versatile sinks are ideal for small homes where space is limited – but they can also prove a productive addition to a larger kitchen. That’s because it not only helps you clean and prepare food, it also becomes a countertop extension where you can entertain guests or serve them drinks as you cook.

If you are looking for builders in Illinois who can remodel your kitchen and give it a modern look, just make sure they have the proper permits. According to the Illinois Home Repair and Remodeling Act, every contractor has to get a contract signed by their clients, which states the total cost of the project.

If you are in search of reliable and certified builders in Streeterville, Lincoln Square, West Loop, Lincoln Park, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, or Roscoe Village in Chicago, get in touch with Areté Renovators for a quote. We have completed numerous custom kitchen remodeling jobs across the greater Chicago area and can help you bring your vision to life as well. Get in touch with us today.

What’s Trending in Design?

A new year means new perspectives – even for your home’s interior design. While some design elements remain timeless, certain design elements should be replaced with trendier options. Embracing what works can prevent your home from standing out because of its dated decor.

Here are some home décor trends you can implement this year:

Artisanal Fixtures

Today, interior design is all about standing out and personalizing certain areas, rather than sticking to cookie-cutter looks. This is why more and more homeowners are going for artisanal options such as artsy fixtures, which can help them maintain a distinctive aesthetic.

These have a handcrafted feel to them, allowing them to blend into personalized décor naturally and seamlessly. The imperfect nature of artisanal pieces can add an otherworldly charm to your décor and shift perspective without compromising the comfy and inviting feel of a room.

Sleek and Modern Fireplaces

Gone are the days when big, robust fireplaces were an essential part of a home’s design. Today, most homeowners are opting for non-invasive and sleeker options, which elevate their interior décor without overtaking it. Subtle fireplaces can appear timeless and increase the value of your home at the same time.

What is great about these compact fireplaces is they take up very little space and seamlessly blend into a home’s décor. A modern fireplace will look like an organic part of your home, rather than a garish centerpiece.

Painted Ceilings

There is a fifth wall in your rooms that is going underutilized that more homeowners are taking note of this year. We are referring to the ceiling. Whether you prefer to paint it, wallpaper it, or add new molding, a ceiling can be used to accentuate a space from a completely different perspective.

This is a good design technique for intimate spaces such as formal dining areas, the bedroom, and the bathroom. Just keep the 60-30-10 rule in mind (60% of the room in a dominant color, 30% in a secondary color or texture, and 10% as an accent). You can either use the same base color on the ceiling or make it an accent wall with a different color to make it stand out. Either way, you will get a room that guests cannot help but stare in awe at.

Multi-Functional Spaces

Remember – less is more and sustainable solutions are leading design trends across the board. This is why more homeowners are opting for open space and multi-functional homes, which maximize their needs.

This includes dining and kitchen areas and multipurpose furniture that can perform double duty as bedroom or living room pieces. You can also opt for seating options that double as storage spaces. The aim is to prioritize functionality without compromising style.

If you are looking for home renovators in Chicago, Illinois, we can help you realize your design vision. Contact Areté Renovators by calling (773) 610-4551. We are known for our workmanship, modern products, and reliable services. Get a consultation if you live in Streeterville, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Roscoe Village.

Ways to Add Color to Your Neutral Kitchen or Bath but Still Keep It Looking Timeless

Bored with the neutral colors in your bathroom and kitchen? There’s no need to splurge on a complete renovation – all you need to do is add a few splashes of color that can rejuvenate the interior design without sacrificing its timeless quality. Think of it as a boring outfit that just needs a few colorful bracelets or a beaded necklace to pop.

Here are some tips you can use to breathe new life into your kitchen and bathroom design without losing their innate charm.

The Kitchen

Install Colorful Countertops A plain white countertop may look pristine, but it can leech your kitchen of life and make it look sterile. You can go big by replacing it with brightly colored countertops in shades of red, plum, or even turquoise – but when you choose a color that is so individualized to your particular taste and style you will need to consider your long-term return on investment if you do not intend to make this your forever home.

Instead, go with lasting yet bold colors such as combinations of white, green, gold, or black – the color combinations in natural and engineered stone are endless!

Paint or Polish Your Kitchen Cabinets

Cabinets can either frame your kitchen or make it look duller than it really is. If you want to rejuvenate this area, consider re-painting the cabinets a different color or if they are made of glass – paint their interior. This will create a dramatic background for your cutlery and kitchenware.

If you can’t stand the smell of paint, get your cabinets polished instead. A fresh coat of varnish will make dull cabinet doors look good as new and add some much-needed pops of color to your overall design.

While painting your cabinets can make a huge statement, be sure that you have set the appropriate expectations. When cabinets are ordered directly from the manufacturer the finish and the color is typically baked on. That process and longevity of the finish cannot be recreated with at-home painting.

The Bathroom

Replace Dull Knobs with Colorful Ones If your bathroom cabinets and drawers have seen better days, rather than getting them replaced, consider replacing just the knobs and pulls. This will add a modern and updated touch to the vintage space and make it look lively.

Play around with different metals and finishes. Don’t be afraid to experiment. The bolder you are, the more attractive your bathroom will be.

Replace the Floor Tiles and/or Paint the Ceiling

One of the best ways to add color to a bathroom and make it stand out is by replacing dull-looking tiles with colorful options or neutral tiles in a unique pattern. A small change such as changing the floor pattern from brick to chevron can make a big visual impact. Painting the ceiling can also add an interesting visual element to the space. We are starting to see a revival of darker colors in smaller spaces – think navy, black, dark gray, or emerald green.

Whether you want your kitchen cabinets replaced or need new tiles for your bathroom, get in touch with Areté Renovators – the one-stop-shop for your remodeling and renovation needs. We offer our services to Chicago, IL residents, specifically in Streeterville, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Roscoe Village. We are known for our stellar customer service.

How to Avoid Buyer’s Remorse When Doing a Remodel

Remodeling errors can end up costing a lot. A simple renovation job takes thousands of dollars to complete, but that can double, or even quadruple if you regret your choices once the job is complete.

You cannot go back in time to correct mistakes, but you can prevent mistakes from ruining your home by avoiding common remodeling pitfalls with these tips:

Draw Up a Basic Plan

Whether you doodle a basic plan on a napkin or hire someone to create a blueprint that captures your vision, make sure you have a rough idea of what the final look will be. This way, the outcome will be less expensive, less frustrating and you won’t have to spend time correcting errors, which may be irreversible.

Professional contractors can help you weed out potential issues, which will not be apparent to your untrained eye. Plus, they also will have permits (when applicable) to work on your plans and you will not have to pay the hefty fine if you opt for DIY. Professional contractors are also aware of noise laws in Chicago. If you violate these noise laws, it may lead to hefty fines and upset neighbors.

Keep the Finishing Touches in Mind

Most homeowners are so excited to start a remodeling project they forget design preferences. Many homeowners buy new furniture before they have a basic idea of how their final project will look. The way you plan to design your home is deeply personal, but if your remodeling plans cannot accommodate them, you may end up giving away many newly purchased items.

Leave finishing touches and personal design elements for the end of your project, when you can purchase items that can best compliment your finished look, not the other way around. This helps the newly remodeled space look cohesive.

Match the Design to Your Lifestyle

You may regret cutting back on small luxuries, just because they don’t conform to your budget. Thinking outside-the-box can be the best option.

In the end, stretching your budget to accommodate those small touches will be worth the money. If you love having guests at home but must reduce the size of the living room, you can have the walls between the room and the kitchen removed for a spacious open floor plan. That way, you will get the space you need and give your home a modern touch at the same time.

Listen to the Experts

Even if you are proud of your ideas and have a list of priorities, you still don’t know more than the experts. Remember to take advice from professional renovators who know what works and which ideas you may end up regretting.

Search for builders and contractors who have worked on similar homes or spaces and don’t be afraid to ask tough questions. They should be comfortable with using the materials you need, but they should let you know if there are better options based on their experience.

If you are searching for top-rated home remodelers in Chicago, look no further than Areté Renovators. Our aim is to achieve excellence by providing the best remodeling services in Streeterville, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Roscoe Village with reliable remodeling and construction jobs. Before you put your plans into action, get in touch with us today for a consultation at 773-610-4551.

Everything You Need to Know About Hardwood Refinishing

Hardwood Finishing

Hardwood floors look beautiful, but over time they begin to show nicks, dents, and scratches, making them look aged and worn out. The good news is you can breathe new life into worn-out hardwood floors by refinishing them.

Refinishing Levels

There are two levels of refinishing wooden floors. The first is buffing or screening, which restores the damaged topcoat and surface blemishes. The second level involves sanding or refinishing, which can remove deeper imperfections and allow you to change the color of the floor with a new or custom stain.

Types of Hardwood Floor Finishes

The two most common types of stains are water-based and polyurethane. While the end result is identical, be sure to consult with your property manager prior to choosing between water-based and polyurethane. Most condominium buildings require homeowners to use water-based stains due to the high odor and fumes that polyurethane puts off.

Consider the Sheen and Color

When choosing a stain color, it is important to consult with a contractor who can provide color samples that you can view on your floor in your home’s natural lighting. Different woods absorb color stain differently, so the color you see on the outside of a can may not be the end result you are looking for once applied. The right contractor can also mix a custom color that would best suit your design aesthetic. Lastly, you will need to consider the level of sheen. When choosing between satin and high gloss, for example, consider your activity level. A dark hardwood floor with a high gloss will tend to show more dust and footprints than a natural oak floor with a satin finish.

Who You Should NOT Hire

Just because you rented a 110-volt sander one time for a job around your house, doesn’t make you an expert. You cannot get quality results with rentable sanders like you can with an expert hardwood floor refinisher. In the end, you’ll likely end up wasting your time and money.

Professional hardwood finishers use powerful 220-volt equipment to get results. More than likely, if you attempt to use these sanders, you’ll end up damaging your floor. To make sure this does not happen, look for pros who are certified and specialize in hardwood finishing. Remember – a new floor costs much more than a refinished floor.

Who You Should Hire

In Chicago, Areté Renovators outshines their competition. Serving residents in Streeterville, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Roscoe Village, they have over 20 years of experience in refinishing wooden floors throughout Chicago, as well as remodeling, design, real estate, and construction. They always keep an eye on current market trends and use the best products at competitive prices. Get in touch with us today for a quote at 773-610-4551.

Basement Remodeling Ideas

Are you terrified each time you go down to your basement? The good news is you can transform that underutilized square footage into a room that will spark joy rather than horror. Continue reading for basement remodeling inspiration:

1. Make the Space Inviting to Accommodate Guests and Family

If your living room is not large enough to accommodate a lot of guests or your family has limited entertainment options, use the basement. It’s the ideal space for a large screen television, plush seating, in-home gym, a pool table, gaming consoles, and craft supplies, or other bar and entertainment area.

Make sure you choose comfortable seating arrangements that can easily be rearranged to accommodate a crowd. Plus, if you regularly entertain, make sure the room has good lighting, Wi-Fi, and a quality sound system.

2. Maximize Space by Adding Shelves and Storage Areas

Oftentimes we overestimate the size of an empty room. Once you start bringing furniture and other items in, you will quickly realize the true size of your space. Spatial planning is a must! There are several free online spatial room planners that will allow you to visualize your furniture in the space to ensure it all fits. To avoid clutter, think vertically. Shelves and dedicated storage areas can free up floor space and bring additional organization for all the toys, games, and other random items you want out of sight.

3. Re-Invent the Stairs

Your dark basement stairs can be transformed into a bright element that leads into a peaceful space with simple updates. Depending on what your stairs are made of you paint or stain them a brighter neutral color or carpet them which will also help with absorbing sound.

However, you choose to design your basement space, make sure you are always consulting the building code. A professional contractor can be a great partner and help guide you through the process.

Areté Renovators have been providing construction and remodeling services to Chicago residents in Streeterville, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Roscoe Village since 2002.

Whether you need a basement remodeled, a kitchen overhauled, or need to add a new bathroom – we have trained professionals on staff who can do the job. We have a great working relationship with industry leaders and suppliers who make our contracting services affordable and convenient. Get in touch with us today for a consultation by calling (773) 610-4551.

Reasons to Hire a Contractor Instead of Trying to DIY

Are you excited about remodeling your home? If you think you can do it yourself without cutting corners, paying penalties, or causing unnecessary delays, think again. Here are a few reasons hiring a contractor is a better idea than taking the DIY route:

You Need Permits

Any substantial changes or additions to a home in Chicago usually requires a permit per the Chicago Building Code.

In some cases, homeowners are unable to apply for a permit on their own – unless you can provide proof that you are working with a licensed contractor. Many contractors have also built a rapport with the city allowing for expedited approval of permits and timely inspections.

Save Time and Money

Contrary to popular belief, DIY projects take more time and can exceed your budget in the long run. By hiring a professional contractor, you are more likely to stay on schedule and budget while ensuring the work is done right the first time.

A lot of time and project management goes into DIY projects, which you may not have. Chances are you will also forget critical details, which can delay the work by weeks or even months. A contractor will draft a detailed plan that covers your requirements and will ensure changes are promptly communicated to you. This includes informing you if the project will take more time or money to complete and minimizing mistakes you would surely make with your DIY efforts.

Avoid Liability

Your homeowner’s insurance does not cover damages incurred to your home during a DIY construction project. If you punch a hole in the wall trying to maneuver a ladder through the narrow corridors, you are paying for it out-of-pocket.

An experienced and licensed contractor will have general liability insurance, which protects their clients from such incidents. This includes workers’ compensation insurance that would protect his/her workers against injuries they may sustain while working. Both will protect you in case an accident occurs on-site or a worker gets injured while working on your renovations.

Areté Renovators have all the tools, experience, and resources you need to ensure your home renovation goes smoothly. We have been serving the people of Chicago for 20 years specifically in Streeterville, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Roscoe Village. Call (773) 610-4551 to get in touch with us today.

Think Outside the Box: Go Beyond the Norm in Your Bathroom Remodel

Bathroom Remodel

To create a bathroom sanctuary that exudes calm and relaxation as soon as you step inside, go for innovative rather than traditional design options. Here are a few out-of-the-box ideas to get you started:

Replace Stools with Accent Armchairs

Say goodbye to that repurposed garden stool you keep in your bathroom tucked under your makeup counter. Replace it with an accent armchair that is made of raw wood and soft upholstery. An armchair will add a touch of grandeur to the design of your bathroom and make other elements pop – especially if the fabric is done in a muted color.

Add Mirrors that Reflect your Aesthetic

Contractor-grade mirrors are practical and low cost, but they don’t do a whole lot for a bathroom’s décor. Pick an option that reflects your unique personality and adds a personal touch. Choose options that have unique shapes, framing, integrated lighting options, and/or a vintage quality to them. Elevate that by hanging the mirrors from ropes or on the backdrop of backsplash tile or wallpaper.

Use a Mix of Materials

Tiles are not the only materials you can work with in bathroom design. To make it really stand out, incorporate wood and glass or wood and marble elements to make stunning combinations. The result is a solid foundation for your bathroom design, which is elegant and simple without being overwhelming.

Don’t Be Afraid of Darker Colors

Light and bright colors can make your bathroom look pristine, but they can also make it look sterile depending on your light source – do you have a window that allows for natural light? Richer and darker colors can add a warming touch to your space. When going for rich dark tones, think beyond paint. Go with tiles that mimic concrete and contrast that with dark wooden cabinets or matte black plumbing fixtures.

At Areté Renovators, we take special pride in bathroom renovations for our home remodeling projects. With years of experience in the industry, our professionals know the key to a unique design is the mood it can evoke when it is arranged just right. If you are searching for top-rated home remodelers in Chicago, look no further than Areté Renovators. Our aim is to achieve excellence by providing the best remodeling services in Streeterville, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Roscoe Village. Get in touch with us for a consultation today by calling (773) 610-4551.

What to Look for When Choosing a General Contractor

Nothing is more frustrating and heartbreaking for a homeowner than a botched renovation job. The money you paid to the contractor goes down the drain and you end up paying for a redo. Unfortunately, by the time you realize it’s too late you have already spent a huge portion of your savings on an unreliable and often times unlicensed contractor.

To avoid this scenario, here are a few things you should look for in a general contractor before hiring one.

Adequate Resources and Access to Sub-Contractors

All general contractors in Chicago have to have a strong network of suppliers, subcontractors, and resources, which allows them to handle a variety of jobs. This includes those who can handle electrical work, install plumbing, paint and wallpaper walls, set tiles, take care of carpentry, etc.

Before hiring a general contractor, find out if they can afford these professionals, manage their costs, and ensure the job is completed on time. Always be wary of a contractor who does not detail their payment plan in a contract and instead calls at random times to ask for money to fund the project. If the contractor has adequate resources and connections with subcontractors who they have worked with for years without issue – they should be considered.

References and Referrals

Honest, professional, and reliable contractors are forthcoming with contact information of their past clients. Once you view that list, get in touch with them and inquire about their experience – including the budget they had and how they managed the project from beginning to end. A service that willingly collects referrals will not disappoint.

Itemized Bids

Every contractor you investigate will provide an estimate of your project. However, a professional will break it down for you. This list will break down each part of the project and their cost analysis, according to resource and personnel requirements.

An itemized estimate will help you finalize a budget and keep the contractor accountable for results at the same time. You will know exactly how your money is being spent while making sure the job remains on track.

Licensing and Insurance

There is a difference between the license required to be a general contractor and a handyman license who can do small home repairs. The former allows the service or business to hire subcontractors and acquire building permits. The latter protects only consumers. Ask for copies of insurance. A general contractor should hold general liability, worker’s compensation, and oftentimes umbrella and automobile insurance. Handymen can operate as a sole employee making them worker’s comp exempt and not in need of a general liability policy.

In other words, ask whether the general contractor has the appropriate licensing and insurance before hiring the service, or you may end up paying for more than you bargained for.

if you are searching for top-rated home remodelers in Chicago, look no further than Areté Renovators. Our aim is to achieve excellence by providing the best remodeling services in Streeterville, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Roscoe Village. We work with quality suppliers to make sure each and every product being installed into your home is of the best possible quality. Get in touch with us for a consultation today! Call 773-610-4551.