DESIGN STYLES// Contemporary

Sometimes the hardest part of redecorating/remodeling is finding a cohesive design plan. Browse through our Design Style series for project inspiration, and give us a call when you're ready to make your vision a reality!

Contemporary

Living Room

If you're a big Pinterest fan, you're already pretty familiar with a contemporary style. It's similar to modern but focuses more on maintaining a clean, light and open space.

Example Color Palettes

Color Palettes

Try to stick with light neutral colors, using dark colors as an accent. If you're craving color, keep them muted and spread them throughout the whole space.

Floating Shelves

Office, Living Room, Kitchen

Floating shelves are everywhere right now, and for good reason. They open up otherwise closed off spaces and give you a chance to display belongings without clutter. Their clean lines make them perfect in a contemporary space. 

Flooring

Honeycomb, Graphic, Gradient

Steer clear of carpets in a contemporary space. If you've gotten bored of a traditional hardwood or tile floor, step it up a bit! Add a tile in a different shape or pattern than expected. Keep other design elements simple, so the space doesn't get too overwhelmed.

We hope this inspired you to revamp your contemporary space. Have a great day!

PROJECTS// Garage into a Loft

Garage into a Loft 

Our blog may be new, but K&E is no stranger to the remodeling world. Check out an awesome project from a while back, a garage converted into a loft space, complete with a Murphy bed!

Starting work on the Murphy bed

Bed area with finished walls

Completed Murphy bed!

Here, Shane added in a shelf where the existing window was so that there's a little storage right near the bed. If you have a room in your house that you need to be multi functional, a Murphy bed is an awesome space saver! Fold the bed into the wall when you need to use the space as an office or playroom, fold it down when you've got guests on the way! And trust us, this is waaaay more comfortable than an air mattress on the floor ;)

 

These dark barn doors with the frosted glass are great in a small space because they are both stylish and functional. The frosted glass still allows for light to come in, but maintains some privacy.

If you have an unfinished space that you would like remodeled, give us a call! We'd love to come take a look and help you out!

TRENDING// Summer 2016

2016 has been a big year in home design. Sites like Pinterest and Houzz have homeowners more motivated than ever to spice up their living spaces. We've rounded up some of our favorite trends from this year so far, check them out below!

2016 Design Trends
Two Toned Cabinets

White and Wood, White and Black, White and Blue

Can't decide if you want a wood or painted cabinet? Can't narrow it down past 2 choices? You don't have to! To work this trend in your space, use the lighter color on the top cabinets to keep from weighing down the space. It's a great way to be able to bring darker or bright colors into the kitchen without going over the top.

Bold Powder Room Walls

 Beige and White, Palm Leaf, Black and White

Powder rooms are a perfect place to go bold! They're just the right size to be interesting but not overwhelming. Go all out and pick a statement wallpaper, like this palm leaf or black and white teardrop print. If that's a little too much for your style, try something a little more monochromatic with an interesting design, like this beige and white design. Either way, you're guaranteed to impress your guests the second they walk in.

P.S: Like this idea, but don't have a bathroom small enough? Try adding just one accent wall in a bigger bathroom. Same impact, but less overwhelming!

Statement Mirrors

Large Frame, Scalloped Edge, Gold

If you don't have a ton of time or money to spruce up your space, consider swapping out your medicine cabinet for a fancy statement mirror! They open up the space and create an awesome focal point. 

Interesting Light Fixtures

Gold Orb, Hanging Bulbs, Round Metal

Lights are some of the most used design features in a home, you use them everyday! Pick a style you love and go for it! A stunning chandelier or lighting fixture is a great way to up your design, with minimal effort.

Love the idea of revamping your space, but not sure you've got the know-how? Give us a call, we'd love to help! Did we miss one of your favorite trends? Mention it in the comments below! 

ASK AN EXPERT// Projects Worth the Investment

This post is in partnership with Jody Longie of Colorado Home Matchmaker, if you're in the Colorado Springs area and are ready to buy or sell your home contact her at (719) 464-4821

Budget friendly projects with a big return on investment (ROI)

Not all home improvement projects are created equal. Some renovations may cost a lot but not add significant value to your home. This list goes in the opposite direction: Here are some inexpensive home improvement projects that will not only increase your enjoyment of your home, but will also increase the home’s value.

1. High quality ceiling fans: In a recent National Association of Home Builders survey, ceiling fans ranked No. 1 as the most-wanted decorative item. If your ceiling fans are outdated, replace them with something in the $400 range—it’ll make a big difference when it’s time to sell.
2. Trees: Mature trees can be worth as much as $10,000 toward the value of your home. Trees also protect your home from the elements and prevent erosion.
3. Energy efficiency: Buyers are increasingly interested in saving energy, so any efficiency update is worthwhile. Switching from a wood to gas fireplace is a great start.
4. Outdoor lighting: Exterior lighting is great for highlighting the accents of your home, and you can typically expect a 50 percent return on investment.
5. Molding: You can finish a room with crown molding or railing for as little as $1.50 per foot if you take a DIY approach, and it’s extremely desirable among prospective buyers.

We hope this was helpful for those of you looking to buy or sell. If you aren't quite sure if you're ready or just want to hear a little about the current market, give Jody a call!

DESIGN STYLE// Rustic

Sometimes the hardest part of redecorating/remodeling is finding a cohesive design plan. Browse through our Design Style series for project inspiration, and give us a call when you're ready to make your vision a reality!

Rustic

Rustic Kitchen

This style fits right in here in Colorado. Inspired by nature, rustic style uses textures and natural elements to create a warm, cozy atmosphere. Think of a cabin buried out in the woods.
Example Color Palettes

Color Palettes

Use lots of darker, natural color. Try to use a majority of the colors in a warm tone, using navy or blues to accent-otherwise your space will feel dark and cramped.

Mudroom & Entryways

Wood and Stone, Metal , Wood 

• Especially, here in Colorado a mudroom is a great way to keep your house clean and organized! Build extra storage for shoes, coats, backpacks and all your other cold weather accessories!
• Use natural elements like wood, stone and metal to invite a rustic feel from the minute you walk in the door.
• Keep in mind that even if your home doesn't have a dedicated space for a mudroom, there's almost always a place to build in storage near your entryway to get the same feeling. 

Textures

Bathroom, Metal Wall, Stone Fireplace

• If using mostly wood is intimidating for you, try incorporating metal in your design to break it up.
• Also, stone is a great material that will still give you a warm and natural feel

We hope this has been helpful as you narrow down your design style!

DESIGN STYLE// Traditional

Sometimes the hardest part of redecorating/remodeling is finding a cohesive design plan. Browse through our Design Style series for project inspiration, and give us a call when you're ready to make your vision a reality!

Traditional

Traditional Exterior

A familiar design style to most, a traditional home uses rich colors and prints to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Think The Notebook. Traditional style uses woven textures to further make you feel just at home.
Example Color Palettes

Use deeper, richer colors in this style. Keep your neutrals warm; blacks and blue/greys will make your space feel less inviting. Use accent colors like deep purples, navy, burgundy and forest green.
Exterior Features

Shutters, Wrap-around porch

• Shutters add instant curb appeal to your home. They are the perfect finishing touch to tie the look of your exterior together.
• If you're looking to go a little bigger, consider a wrap around porch! It's a perfect place to kick back and relax, and adds big resale value to your home.

Bonus Design Inspiration

Island, Farmhouse sink Bay window

• Islands are a great way to add extra storage and counter space to your kitchen. They also give your kitchen some extra seating so there's more room for family and friends to help out in the kitchen!
• Farmhouse sinks are very trendy right now, and for good reason! They're functional and eye-appealing.
• Bay windows are the perfect spot to curl up with a cup of hot cocoa and watch the snow fall. They let in lots of light, and are a cozy way to build in some extra seating.

We hope this was helpful in giving you some inspiration for your remodel! Have a great week!