Dream Kitchens - kitchen and bath design remodeling

Dream Kitchens has been specializing in kitchen and bath design and remodeling in Massachusetts and New Hampshire for over 20 years.

Dream Kitchens - kitchen and bath design remodeling

Dream Kitchens has been specializing in kitchen and bath design and remodeling in Massachusetts and New Hampshire for over 20 years.

Dream Kitchens - kitchen and bath design remodeling

Dream Kitchens has been specializing in kitchen and bath design and remodeling in Massachusetts and New Hampshire for over 20 years.

Monday, March 20, 2017

Key Budget Considerations to Make Your Kitchen Remodeling Easier

kitchen renovation Andover MA
People want to renovate kitchen since it is the one part of the house that gets used a lot. So, any renovation project aiming to improve the look and feel of kitchen should be well-planned and artistically designed to suit your needs. Some of the key factors to be considered before undertaking a kitchen renovation in Andover MA are the number of occupants, amount of time spend on kitchen, their need for special setup and more. Go through this list of cost-control strategies to make your space look and live better without spending more than you can afford.

Define the Scope

First, examine how big your project is, and estimate the costs involved in its structural repair, appliance upgrade and other major or minor renovation details. Make a clear list of tasks to be done including fixing old appliances, replacing cabinets, expanding work space and more.

Prioritize Works

Find out what's important and what's not to make the most of your funds. Setting priorities to your general goals and working on that schedule may help you to save more money and spend less time on the project.

Seek Professional Advice

Work with an experienced renovation contractor to make changes in your kitchen design and improve its functionality. Talk about the scope of your project, budget and priorities to the professional to get a free initial design. Invite him for an in-home consultation to make detailed measurements and in-depth discussion that fulfills your need.

Unexpected upgrades like moving a gas line, replacing a window, or rewiring for additional lighting should be taken into consideration as an added expense while setting the budget for your kitchen renovation Andover MA.

Popular myths on home remodeling Debunked


bathroom remodeling in Andover, MA
Home remodeling is a fun process and could really improve the quality of your life. Still many homeowners hesitate to undergo renovation process because of several misconceptions surrounding it. Now, it is the right time to dispel those misconceptions with the truth. Some popular myths on kitchen and bathroom  remodeling in Massachusetts is given here,

1. Remodeling is an easy work

         It’s all about accuracy. If you aren’t 100% accurate with the task at hand, you may end up messing your work. This could cost you more and you don’t want that to happen in the first place. Hence it is always safe to hire an experienced professional who could finish your project on time in a correct and efficient manner saving both time and money.

2. They’re not expensive

If you are going for a bathroom remodeling in Andover, MA it is going to cost you. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give it a try. In the recent years, renovations in bathroom have become possible and very affordable since the costs for flooring and shower enclosures have seen a considerable amount of drop.

3. The price of the contractors determines their quality

          A contractor’s pricing doesn’t always reflect their level of trustworthiness. You need a contractor whom you can trust on all aspects. It is always advisable to go for unbiased reviews on the contractors you are about to consider since it tells you all about their past relationships and their dedication in the work.

4. You should have a detailed plan before hiring a contractor

          An idea about your desired end result always comes in handy since it saves time and money and also it ensures good quality. But make sure to involve your contractor in the planning process because they are the important piece of puzzle in your remodel.

Hire trustworthy and innovative contractors and save your money, time and energy in any remodeling project.

Importance Of Renovation In Your Home

remodeling contractors in Burlington


Hello residents of Massachusetts! Are bored of your old house? Are you at a crossroad whether to move to a new house or to renovate your own house? For example, if you are not satisfied with just your bathroom then there many contractors who are specialized in bathroom remodeling. Consider the following things before coming to a conclusion,

Surrounding Environment

Location is one of the most important things to consider for a home. It plays a major role in making a house your home. If you love your neighbors, amenities and other facilities that your current neighborhood is providing, then renovation is the better choice for you

Finance

Money is a very important criterion for both renovation and moving. But comparatively renovation is cheaper when you consider the cost of real estate commissions, seller closing cost and the expenses involved in relocating things. Recent statistics revealed that “Money spent on remodeling contractors in Burlington is cost effective than establishing a new household in the same place.”

Sale value

If you are all set to move out of your house remember upgrading it to the latest standards would increase its market value tremendously. You can even enjoy your new home for a few days before moving to the new place.

Safety

If you live in an old house, you will definitely have to face some issues. Renovating the home would increase its safety from old wiring, cracked subfloors and plumbing problems.

Creating a home that is pleasant for your family and your future family is a worthy investment anytime. Even if are not going to live in the place for a long time, you can profit from the resale value.

Sunday, March 12, 2017

Remodeling Your Kitchen? Learn What Works Well in Your Kitchen

kitchen design in Winchester MA
Getting a kitchen design that fits our lifestyle and design tastes is a dream for many of us. The one thing that ensures functionality and gifts a pleasant surrounding is a well-planned kitchen design in Winchester MA.  But why kitchen designs are important? Here are a few facts to fuel your mind.

•    Kitchen is the most commonly used room in your home.

•    Mealtimes are often the only times families have to spend with one another in today’s hectic schedule.

•    A person spends 20% of lifetime in kitchen.

•    What else do you want to prove that developing a functional kitchen is crucial?

Important Features of a Well-Designed Kitchen

•    As stated earlier, today kitchen is a place where people gather and chit chat. So, it should be more than a cook space where people come together, entertain and relax. Avoid isolation and add a large island in the middle of the kitchen with bar chairs to make it more social.

•    Take your own cooking needs into account and create a layout that is more functional than frustrating. Follow the basic kitchen work triangle of the sink, refrigerator and range to maximize functionality.

•    Leave plenty of counter space next to the appliances to make your cooking routine go much more smoothly.

•    A recent report states that today’s families store about 47% of their kitchen stuff outside the kitchen in laundry rooms, basements, even sheds. So, estimate the exact amount of storage space needed for food, flatware and all the little gadgets you're planning to stock up on.

A good kitchen renovation project in Winchester MA takes future needs into account and should leave space for a freestanding desk or additional appliances.

Home remodeling ideas for your golden years

remodeling contractors from Burlington

One of the smartest but less obvious ways to prepare for a retirement is to get your home ready to grow old. According to a survey conducted by the American Association of Retired Persons, 90% of people at the age 65 or more opt to stay in their current home until the end. However, it is essential to focus on age friendly projects while renovating or remodeling your homes after you reach 55. Leading remodeling contractors from Burlington, MA have shared their thoughts on this subject,

•    As you look for upgrading appliances, choose designs that work wells for less mobility and dexterity. Fitting faucets in kitchen and bathroom that are triggered by motion sensors rather than manual handlings are easy to operate.

•    If you are undergoing bathroom remodeling in Massachusetts, increase the inches of the toilet making it effortless to use.

•    Adjust the position of oven in such a way that you could minimize the need to bend.

•    Remodeling is the perfect opportunity to install features that could help you in a big way later on. Transform cabinets into pull out drawers so that things could be reached without difficulty as you age.

•    If you plan on making a major bathroom redesign then widen the door entry to make it more accessible. This could be particularly useful if you require assistance or wheel chair in the future.

•    Having a threshold shower is better so that shower water would not splatter and create a tripping hazard.

•    Install at least one gently inclined walkway into your home that eliminates the need for using stairs.

By making these small changes, you could bring a sense of security and comfort to your home after your retirement.

Tips To Choose The Perfect Remodeling Contactor


remodeling expert in Andover MA

If you have decided to have a kitchen or bathroom remodeling, the next step is to find the right person for the task. Before picking up an experienced remodeling expert in Andover MA, there are several ways to ensure if the person is reliable for the job. Few of them are listed below,

•    Having a proper plan before getting the estimates would help to make the accurate estimate. Uncertainties may lead to change of estimates and the budget in the future.

•    You can ask people who have done renovation in their home, people involved in construction business and hardware store keepers for suggestion.

•    Get quotations from at least three home remodeling contractors and make sure that each quotation has the same materials and labor. This would make the comparison and the negotiation easier.

•    Make sure that the contractor has done the same kind of work before and has accomplished it satisfactorily.

•    Do not get believe online reviews blindly. Make sure if the person who reviews is genuine.

•    It is commonly known that a busy remodeling contractor is someone who has a good reputation in the field. So don’t hesitate to wait for the right person to clear his schedule for you.

•    The most important thing to check if the remodeling contractor and his subcontractors are properly licensed by the state or the municipality.

If you choose the right remodeling contractor then he would help you with the remaining works with his expertise and you can be free of all the worries.

Saturday, March 11, 2017

Tips to Make Bathroom Remodeling totally worth it

Homeowners who think that their bathrooms are outdated will consider remodeling it. Admit it; you might think of doing it yourself but sooner or later, you’ll get to realize that’s a bad idea. Always consider appointing a professional bathroom remodeling service to get the work done without flaws. Here are some tips to make bathroom remodeling successful.

1. Choosing the Right Fixtures:
The appearance of your bathroom depends on the materials you choose. If you are going for mismatched bowls and sinks, your bathroom might look awkward. Prevent this from happening by carefully choosing the right fixtures for your bathroom.


2. Right Flooring:
The tiles you choose can create a huge difference in the appearance of your bathroom. To make you and your loved ones safe, invest only on non-slippery tiles.


3. Size:
If you consider making changes in the size of your bathroom, keep tabs on the items that are to be placed in it. You’ll have to be extra careful in choosing the size of your bathtub and fixtures in such a way that your bathroom isn’t overcrowded.


4. Lighting:
Rather than choosing one light for your bathroom, you can make use of several simple, yet stylish lights that can create a big difference to your bathroom.


Follow the aforesaid tips to make your bathroom remodeling work successful. A reputable bathroom remodeling service in Massachusetts can listen to your requirements and works accordingly to make your vision into reality.

Monday, March 6, 2017

Huge Kitchen Renovation Mistakes that Cost You More


 kitchen renovation in Burlington MA
Not very often, but sometimes even the best-planned kitchen remodels hit rough patches. Various reasons like unreliable contractors, late material products and mismatched materials go hand in hand in creating shocking waves that breaks your wallet. Here is a collection of great renovation mistakes that can prevent you from making the same mistakes.

Don’t Give up on Counter Space

The most important element of your kitchen is the counter space and without enough space your kitchen can be highly dysfunctional. So, don’t compromise on counter space, instead add extend the space by adding decorative corbels, or shelving supports and more.

Open Shelving

Open shelving looks gorgeous but when you overdo it you will regret. Too much open shelving looks cluttered even if it’s well organized and makes you worry about dust and bugs, spiders in particular.

Not Sticking on to the Budget

The essential part of your kitchen renovation in Burlington MA is fixing the budget prior to the process. Make a check list of products and features crucial for your dream kitchen and allocate your finances accordingly. It’s also important to keep in mind that, in most cases kitchen cabinets usually take up about one-third of the typical remodel budget.

Kitchen Lighting
While renovating kitchen, most people end up in installing artificial lights to make the room more appealing. But, doing so usually ends up you in high utility cost and energy consumption. The one way to avoid such issue is adding skylights to welcome in more natural light and reduce utility bills.

Ignoring the kitchen triangle, forgetting the functional space, not completing the project on time, letting the contractor alone to decide and more other factor can also break into huge mistakes that breaks your bank. So, hire the right renovation contractors in Burlington MA and get professional advice on the major project to save more money, time and energy.

Kitchen cabinet ideas for small kitchen


Kitchen cabinet

Clear bench tops are very important for a well ordered kitchen and the utensils and appliances need to have a place to stay.  This is where the kitchen cabinets come into play. Kitchen cabinet in Andover, MA is a function oriented product and it gives your kitchen a neat and updated look. However their style, material and sheer functionality should integrate into the kitchen work triangle. If you succeed in this, you could have one of the most slick and stylish kitchen designs in Winchester, MA. Some ideas on kitchen cabinets for small kitchen are given below,

•    Open shelving is an on trend option. However it is necessary to keep them orderly and not treat them as a dumping ground. A messy open shelf would make your kitchen feel congested and even smaller.

•    Integrate large appliances such as refrigerators and dishwasher into your cabinetry. By this way, you could hide them from the view and make your kitchen appear larger. It is particularly useful for a small scale kitchen or when you dine in the same room as your kitchen.

•    Allot deep drawers for pots and pans, shelves for crockery and narrow drawers for cutlery and utensils according to your storage needs. Also, dedicate the counter for bench top appliances.

•    If you have a leftover narrow space, install a tall open self and use it for chopping board.

•    Lighting can be fitted under open selves and cabinets.

•    Avoid large statement hardware for handles as it will overwhelm the space.

•    Put soft drawers if you don’t like a slam. Choose either a simple door handle for door hardware or a seamless press release that could spring open the door with a slightest touch.

A good Kitchen cabinet has the right form and functionality and it should be user-friendly for your family.

Golden Rules on How To Clean Your Kitchen Cabinets


Kitchen design

Kitchen cabinets are an essential part of a perfect Kitchen design. The presence of additional storage in the kitchen is often considered as a blessing in disguise. Unfortunately, it is one of the areas in our home that are exposed to more dirt on daily basis. Cleaning them is usually very difficult. Different types of cabinets are offered by remodeling contractors and each type requires a special method to make the cleaning effective.

Wooden cabinets

•    Detergents that are usually used for the purpose of laundry and dish wash can be used. It is recommended to use two cups of water for a single cup of detergent. Do not use excess of the solution to avoid any damage to the finishing. Then clean the area on which the solution is applied with a wet cloth and wipe it using a dry cloth.

•    Vinegar is the best substitute for the liquid based detergents. Sticky films that are formed due to touch of dirty hands are easily removed using vinegar.

•    If the stain is very tough to clean, baking soda can be used for cleaning.

Painted cabinets

This type of cabinets can endure hard scrubbing as you would not have to worry about finishing. But observe caution if the paint is latex style water-based. Scrubbing with baking soda may lead to scratches at the surface.

Metal cabinets

This is the easiest type of cabinet for cleaning. Usage of Baking soda does not work here. Avoid using excess of water to prevent rust.

Regular cleaning is necessary for not only getting rid of grease or dirt and keeping the cabinet clean but also for arresting bacteria formation by which may affect the health of your family.

Saturday, March 4, 2017

How to Choose a Kitchen Remodeling Contractor? Here are Some Tips!

The secret to making your kitchen remodeling works successful is seeking professional help from an expert kitchen remodeling contractor. With myriad of remodeling services out there, where do you even start? These tips will help you find your ideal kitchen remodeling contractor in Lexington, MA.

1. Ask for Referrals:
The best way to start your search for almost any professional service is word-of-mouth. Your friends and family members are the most reliable source to find the best remodeling service in your area. You’ll notice that they’ll be quite happy in recommending the service, having obtained quality service from the company.


2. Check for Credentials:

Don’t let anyone undertake remodeling services for your home. Make sure that the specialist you choose has the relevant certifications as well as the qualifications to render the service. Hence make a background research of the service being considered before hiring them.


3. Obtain Sample Works:
Meet the contractor in person and obtain samples of their works. A reputable contractor will be more than happy to exhibit their past projects. This is when you could judge how far they could help you in fulfilling your requirements.


4. Contact their Clients, if Possible:
Try contacting the company’s past clients and ask them about their experience with the company. Was the job completed in time? How did the initial consultation go? Is there any warranty associated with the kitchen cabinetry? These are some of the questions you could ask to know how reliable the service will be.


Don’t just let anyone to handle your possessions and property. Make thorough research and hire a trustworthy kitchen remodeling contractor in Lexington, MA.

Sunday, February 26, 2017

Top 8 Bathroom Hacks That Would Blow Your Mind


bathroom remodeling

Are you going for a bathroom remodeling? If yes, then this is the right time for you to start following some amazing hacks would help you organize your bathroom in a proper order so that you would not have to waste your time searching for toiletries in a busy day. Even if you are not renovating the entire bathroom some simple setups would help you achieve all the same. Top 8 of those hacks are given below,

Fit a cleaning brush to the head of a drill and clean without making much effort

To have more storage space in the cupboards you can install spice rack to the inside of the doors.

If you want to add more space in the bathroom counter, use stacked plate counter to store your
toiletries.

Magnetic strips are easily available in store. Adhere those strips to the inside of any cabinets or shelves so that you can use them to place bobby pins, earrings, and any other small magnetic objects.

Magazine racks can be use to place hair dryers and hair strengtheners.

Shaving cream containers may create rust on the surface on which it is placed. By turning it upside down you can avoid it.

You can set a new trend in bathroom design by placing a large mirror in the bathroom. This can make your bathroom appear larger.

Instead of using towel rods, coat hooks can be used to dry the towels to have more space. If you have already installed a towel rod, hang S shaped hooks over them to place towels.

These simple hacks would not only help you to save more space but also make your time spent in the bathroom easier! Get help from the kitchen remodeling experts in Burlington!

Remodeling ideas that add value to your home


Kitchen renovation at Chelmsford, MA


Do you want to improve the resale value of your house in the real estate market of Chelmsford, Massachusetts? Home renovations may be the right choice for you. It can also add energy efficiency to your home and improve its appearance. If you want to make the most out of your money, you have to prioritize on the projects that can easily recoup your investment. Some tips that could help you in this daunting task is given here,

Kitchen

As long as you don’t go overboard, you can have 60% to 120% of your investment back on Kitchen projects according to HGTV. However, Kitchen renovation at Chelmsford, MA can be intimidating. You would have to rely on contractors as it is not something that falls under DIY projects as it involves many components, plumbing, electrical works etc. But once it is done your kitchen could lure potential buyers into buying your home effortlessly.

Bathroom

Having a bathroom remodel at Chelmsford, MA is easier when compared to kitchen remodeling. It does not involve complicated changes in the electrical layout and sewage. According to HGTV, You could have 80- 130% of your money back in redoing your bathroom.

Energy efficiency

It is very important to a home. Though it doesn’t cost much, it could really make your home more appealing to potential buyers. Because, small changes in energy efficiency can save hundreds of dollars each year on utility bills.

These projects not only increase the perceived value of your home but also improve its actual comforts.

Beautiful Kitchen Design Ideas for the Heart of Your Home

kitchen remodeling in Chelmsford MA
When the thought of kitchen remodeling in Chelmsford MA strikes your mind, there arises a lot of questions related to the availability of storage space, kitchen lighting, type of appliances to be used and more. But the important question that makes people go crazy is what sort of design to choose to complement your personality and lifestyle.

Researches state that people spend more than 12% of their lives in the kitchen which is second to bedroom. So, it’s important to choose a kitchen design that works both practically and aesthetically for your life. Read below to find the most enchanting kitchen designs that blow your mind.

Transitional Kitchen Design

Transitional kitchen can bring the right balance in your home and come with a mixture of traditional charm and contemporary chic. These kitchens offer a great range of flexibility and the clean, simple lines of contemporary style make it the great choice among the customers. The key elements of these kitchens are crisp cabinetry, natural countertop and flooring materials, streamlined tile, simple accents and neutral color.

Farmhouse Style

Farmhouse style kitchen space still feels fresh today because of its classic materials and vintage touch. These farmhouse style kitchen spaces evoke the whispers of ancient time and hold so many points of interest. The important elements of these farmhouse style kitchens are open shelving, classic hardwood floors, exposed beams, an old-fashioned rage, vintage accents, fireplace, big table, freestanding cabinetry, and an apron-front sink.

Gourmet Kitchen

Gourmet kitchen is designed especially for people who have a great passion for innovative cooking and uses the finest ingredients. These are high-end kitchens with restaurant-quality features including professional appliances, durable surfaces and specialty storage. The must-have features of a gourmet kitchen are professional-grade range, double oven, warming drawer, dishwasher drawer, convection microwave, microwave drawer, easy-clean, sturdy surfaces and under-cabinet lighting.


Other kitchen styles include shaker style, contemporary style, black, grey, or blue kitchen styles and more. Consult with your renovation contractor in Chelmsford MA to choose the right kitchen style that portrays your true personality.  

Saturday, February 25, 2017

A Simple Guide to Choose Good Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen remodeling is not a walk in the park. There are humungous aspects to consider from choosing the paint color to implementing safety measures. Residents must consider the equipment and materials that goes into the remodeling process. Amongst all such aspects, choosing kitchen cabinets must be done meticulously to ensure that the functionality of your kitchen is enhanced. Make a note of the following tips:

1. Open or Closed Shelving?
One of the primary aspects you have to consider is making your choice of cabinets. Space is a relevant factor for remodeling your kitchen. Open shelving is a wise choice as it gives enough room for your kitchen. On the other hand, choosing huge cabinets can overcrowd your small kitchen too.


2. Flat or Raised Panel
You’ll have to consider the specifications of shelves and cupboards while remodeling your kitchen. While choosing between flat and raised panels, analyze whether you are going for a traditional or modern kitchen style. For simple and contemporary kitchen designs, flat panels are good to go, whereas raised panels are the best choice for traditional and classic kitchen designs. 


3. Choice of Materials
Depending on the existing features and equipment present in your kitchen, you’ll need to decide on your preference of materials. Apart from functionality, kitchen remodeling should also work to make it visually appealing. This is why you don’t have to invest in inexpensive materials that might not go well with the design of kitchen appliances.


A lot of planning and preparation has to go in the choice of kitchen remodel and kitchen cabinets in Andover MA. Hence, choose a remodeling service and give your kitchen a splendid makeover!

Monday, February 20, 2017

Remodeling Ideas to Make your Bathroom Safe for the Elderly

Injuries taking place in the bathroom is a frequent occurrence amongst the elderly population. If you’re moving your elderly into your house, you must undertake certain bathroom remodeling steps to make the space safe and comfortable. Here are some simple tips to make your bathroom easily accessible for the elderly.

1. Install Grab Bars : Installing grab bars close to the shower or around the toilet will make it much easy and safe for your elderly to use the bathroom. A bathroom remodeling service will help you with it and would install wall bars parallel to the ground.

2. Enhance Lighting : It is of utmost importance that your bathroom must be well lit, as vision tends to decrease with age. This means ditching old bulbs and light fixtures for a more energy efficient and bright LED lighting devices.

3. Replace Door Handles & Knobs : Elderly will find it hard to hold small sized components, thus it is best you remove old knobs and install new door handles and knobs that are easy to use. Not to forget replacing faucets if they are very hard to be turned.

4. Placing a Well-gripped Mat in the Shower : Bathroom surfaces are much slippery, which can especially be dangerous for the elderly. This is why it is mandatory to place a nonslip map on the bathroom floor.

5. Raise the Sink or Replace it : Try raising the sink to a height of 30 to 34 inches if the person is in wheelchair. Make sure there’s enough room beneath the sink for the chair to fit in.


Hire a bathroom remodeling service in Massachusetts soon and make all the above enhancements to ensure safety of your loved ones.