SMALL BATHROOMS MAY LACK SPACE, BUT THEY DON’T HAVE TO LACK STYLE OR FUNCTIONALITY. WITH THE RIGHT DESIGN APPROACH AND A DASH OF CREATIVITY, EVEN THE SMALLEST BATHROOMS CAN BE TRANSFORMED INTO CHARMING AND EFFICIENT SPACES THAT CATER TO YOUR NEEDS. LET’S EXPLORE SOME RENOVATION IDEAS TO HELP YOU MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY SQUARE INCH.

GET CREATIVE WITH STORAGE SPACE

WHEN FLOOR SPACE IS LIMITED, THINK ABOUT GOING VERTICAL. INSTALL SHELVES OR CABINETS THAT EXTEND UPWARDS TO MAXIMIZE STORAGE CAPACITY WITHOUT TAKING OVER PRECIOUS FLOOR SPACE.

FLOATING SHELVES ABOVE THE TOILET OR TALL, NARROW CABINETS CAN HOLD TOILETRIES, TOWELS, AND DECORATIVE ITEMS WHILE KEEPING THE AREA UNCLUTTERED.

CHOOSE LIGHT COLORS AND REFLECTIVE SURFACES

BY USING LIGHT COLORS AND REFLECTIVE SURFACES IN YOUR BATHROOM, YOU CAN GIVE THE SPACE A MORE OPEN AND AIRY FEEL–OPTING FOR WHITES, LIGHT GRAYS, OR PASTELS WILL CREATE A SENSE OF SPACIOUSNESS.

INCORPORATING MIRRORS STRATEGICALLY TO BOUNCE LIGHT AROUND THE ROOM WILL ALSO GIVE THE ILLUSION OF A LARGER SPACE.

LIGHTING IS KEY

PROPER LIGHTING IS ESSENTIAL IN A SMALLER BATHROOM. THE RIGHT BATHROOM LIGHTING WILL BE A PERFECT BLEND OF FORM AND FUNCTION. USE LAYERED LIGHTING WITH FIXTURES THAT HIGHLIGHT CERTAIN AREAS. CONSIDER A CEILING FIXTURE, A VANITY BAR, AND WALL SCONCES TO LIGHT UP THE ROOM. WELL-LIT SPACES FEEL MORE OPEN AND INVITING.

USE SPACE-SAVING FIXTURES

INVESTING IN SPACE-SAVING FIXTURES CAN MAKE A SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCE IN A SMALL BATHROOM. CONSIDER A CORNER SINK, WALL-MOUNTED TOILET, AND FLOATING VANITIES TO FREE UP FLOOR SPACE. THESE STYLES OF FIXTURES WILL CREATE A STREAMLINED LOOK AND MAKE THE BATHROOM FEEL LESS CRAMPED.

A SMALL BATHROOM ISN’T THE DESIGN CHALLENGE YOU BELIEVE IT TO BE. IT’S AN OPPORTUNITY FOR CREATIVE SOLUTIONS. BY OPTIMIZING STORAGE, USING LIGHT COLORS, AND EMPLOYING SMART DESIGN STRATEGIES, YOU CAN TRANSFORM YOUR SMALL BATHROOM INTO A FUNCTIONAL AND STYLISH OASIS.

THE KITCHEN IS THE HEART OF YOUR HOME, WHERE CORE MEMORIES ARE MADE AND CULINARY TREATS ARE CREATED. WHETHER YOU’VE BEEN CONSIDERING A CHANGE FOR YEARS OR ARE A NEW HOMEOWNER, REMODELING YOUR KITCHEN IN CHICAGO HAS MANY BENEFITS.

YOUR KITCHEN SHOULD BE FUNCTIONAL, AS WELL AS AESTHETICALLY PLEASING, REFLECTING YOUR PERSONAL STYLE AND MEETING YOUR FAMILY’S NEEDS. IN THIS BLOG POST, WE’LL EXPLORE FOUR COMPELLING REASONS TO REMODEL YOUR KITCHEN.

IMPROVE FUNCTIONALITY & REMOVE INCONVENIENCES

ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT REASONS TO REMODEL A KITCHEN WOULD BE TO ENHANCE ITS FUNCTIONALITY. OVER TIME, THE NEEDS OF YOUR FAMILY WILL CHANGE AND YOUR KITCHEN MUST ADAPT. A WELL-DESIGNED KITCHEN CAN OPTIMIZE WORKFLOW, MAKING MEAL PREP AND COOKING BOTH EFFICIENT AND ENJOYABLE.

BY REORGANIZING THE LAYOUT OF YOUR KITCHEN, UPGRADING APPLIANCES, AND INSTALLING MODERN STORAGE SOLUTIONS, YOU CAN MAXIMIZE THE USE OF AVAILABLE SPACE, REDUCE CLUTTER, AND SIMPLIFY DAILY TASKS.

BOOST THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME

REMODELING YOUR KITCHEN IS AN INVESTMENT IN YOUR LIVING EXPERIENCE, AS WELL AS THE RESALE VALUE OF YOUR HOME. THE KITCHEN IS A FOCAL POINT FOR POTENTIAL BUYERS AND OFTEN A KEY FACTOR IN THE DECISION TO PURCHASE A PARTICULAR HOME. ACCORDING TO REMODELING MAGAZINE’S COST VS. VALUE REPORT, EVEN MINOR UPDATES TYPICALLY RECOUP A SIGNIFICANT PORTION OF THE PROJECT’S COST UPON RESALE.

ENHANCED AESTHETICS – MATCH YOUR STYLE

DO YOU CRINGE EVERY TIME YOU WALK INTO YOUR KITCHEN? WOULD A NEW INCREASE THE LIKELIHOOD OF ENTERTAINING GUESTS?

YOUR KITCHEN SHOULD BE A PLACE YOU WANT TO SPEND TIME. YOUR KITCHEN SHOULD INCLUDE FINISHES AND COLORS THAT REFLECT YOUR PERSONAL STYLE AND BE A VISUALLY APPEALING SPACE. FROM THE CHOICE OF CABINETRY AND COUNTERTOPS TO THE SELECTION OF LIGHTING FIXTURES AND FLOORING, YOU SHOULD INFUSE YOUR UNIQUE STYLE INTO YOUR KITCHEN. FROM MODERN TO RUSTIC, YOU DESERVE TO WALK INTO YOUR KITCHEN AND SEE YOU.

INCREASED ENERGY EFFICIENCY

BY REMODELING YOUR KITCHEN, YOU CAN INCORPORATE ENERGY-EFFICIENT APPLIANCES, LED LIGHTING, IMPROVED INSULATION, AND ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS THAT WILL HELP YOU REDUCE ENERGY USAGE BY 20-40%, SAVING YOU MONEY LONG-TERM.

REDUCE YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT WHILE ENJOYING A MORE MODERN AND EFFICIENT KITCHEN.

IF YOU’RE READY TO START THE CONVERSATION ABOUT REMODELING YOUR KITCHEN, WE’D LOVE TO TALK TO YOU.

AT MK CONSTRUCTION, WE BELIEVE OUTDOOR HOME DESIGN IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS THE INTERIOR DESIGN. HERE’S A LIST OF EXTERIOR CUSTOM HOME TRENDS YOU SHOULD BE AWARE OF:

OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES

IN THE HEART OF A BUSTLING CITY, AMIDST SKYSCRAPERS AND BUSY STREETS, A HIDDEN OASIS COULD BE WHAT YOU NEED. IMAGINE AN OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE WITH TABLES, COUCHES, A FIREPLACE, A KITCHEN, A FULL BAR AREA, A TELEVISION TO WATCH, AND SO MUCH MORE.

DECORATIVE SPACES

FROM DECORATIVE TILES AND STAMPED CONCRETE TO STONE AND PAVER WALKWAYS, BRING LIFE TO YOUR OUTDOOR DESIGN. A LIGHT COLOR STONE ACCENT WALL OR AREA CAN BRING A UNIQUE TEXTURE TO YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR.

SWIMMING POOLS AND SPAS

DESIGN YOUR PERFECT SWIMMING POOL FOR YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE. WITH VARIOUS CUSTOM SHAPES, COLORS, AND LIGHTING EFFECTS, YOUR DREAM POOL IS WITHIN REACH. WANT TO TAKE YOUR POOL UP A NOTCH? ADD LOUNGE CHAIRS, TABLES, AND OUTDOOR SPEAKERS TO TAKE IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL. ALSO, PLAN FOR AN OUTDOOR SPA TO GO ALONG WITH THE SWIMMING POOL TO COMPLETE YOUR DESIGN.

ADDITIONAL ACCENTS

BLACK IS THE NEW BLACK – ADDING BLACK ACCENTS OR WOOD ACCENTS TO YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE WILL ENHANCE YOUR CUSTOM HOME DESIGN AND ADD TO ITS BEAUTIFUL CURB APPEAL.

UNIQUE LIGHTING FEATURES

OUTDOOR LIGHTING HAS CHANGED DRASTICALLY. YOUR CREATIVE OPTIONS ARE ENDLESS WITH LIGHT-UP WALKWAYS, TREE LIGHTING, AND COLOR-CHANGING POOL LIGHTS. GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR OUTDOOR LIGHTING THIS SUMMER TO ENHANCE YOUR RELAXATION LEVELS.

WE’D LOVE TO MEET WITH YOU TO DISCUSS IDEAS FOR YOUR NEW CUSTOM HOME!

IT’S EASY TO FIND A COOKIE-CUTTER HOME TO PURCHASE. THEY’RE A DIME A DOZEN IN EVERY NEIGHBORHOOD IN CHICAGO. WHEN YOU’RE LOOKING TO BUY, YOU SEARCH THROUGH SO MANY OPTIONS TO FIND ONE PERFECTLY TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS AND SPECIFIC TASTE.

INSTEAD OF TRYING TO SEARCH FOR PREVIOUSLY BUILT HOMES TO FIT YOUR NEEDS, WHY NOT BUILD ONE YOURSELF? WANT A THEATER ROOM? A SECRET DOORWAY? DESIGN IT YOURSELF!

WITH A CUSTOM BUILD, YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DESIGN EVERY ASPECT OF YOUR HOME TO THE EXACT SPECIFICATIONS YOU DESIRE. IF YOU’RE ON THE FENCE ABOUT BUILDING A NEW PROPERTY, HERE ARE 5 REASONS TO HELP YOU MAKE YOUR DECISION!

YOU GET WHAT YOU WANT

IT MAY SEEM OBVIOUS, BUT WITH A CUSTOM BUILD, YOU CAN CUSTOMIZE YOUR ENTIRE HOME WORKING WITH A BUILDER. YOU’RE IN CONTROL OF EVERYTHING, SUCH AS:

• SIZE OF THE PROPERTY
• LAYOUT
• MATERIALS
• FIXTURES
• FINISHES
• AND MORE!

YOU WON’T HAVE TO COMPROMISE ON THE THINGS YOU WANT MOST. WHEN YOU BUILD CUSTOM, YOUR HOME WILL FIT YOUR LIFESTYLE DOWN TO THE SMALLEST DETAIL.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

SPEAKING OF THINGS YOU’RE IN CONTROL OF – YOU GET TO CHOOSE THE LOCATION! DO YOU WANT TO BE CLOSE TO A CERTAIN SCHOOL DISTRICT? EASY ACCESS TO SHOPPING? WANT TO BE CLOSE TO WORK?

YOU SHOULD BASE YOUR HOME’S LOCATION ON YOUR FAMILY’S NEEDS. WHEN YOU BUY PREVIOUSLY OWNED, YOU’RE LIMITED TO THE PROPERTIES AVAILABLE. SO IF YOU’RE FOCUSED ON A CERTAIN AREA, YOU CAN ONLY CHOOSE FROM THOSE CURRENTLY UP FOR SALE.

BUT, WITH A CUSTOM HOME, YOU CAN PICK A LOT IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD OF YOUR CHOICE AND BUILD THE EXACT RESIDENCE YOU WANT!

COLLABORATIVE PROCESS

THE PROCESS OF DESIGNING AND BUILDING A CUSTOM-BUILT HOME SHOULD BE COLLABORATIVE BETWEEN YOU AND THE BUILDER. YOU SHOULD BE INVOLVED IN EVERY STEP OF THE DESIGN AND BUILD PROCESS, WITH THE AUTHORITY TO HAVE A SAY IN THE CONSTRUCTION TO ENSURE EVERYTHING GETS BUILT TO YOUR SPECIFICATIONS.

BUILD AN ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOME

WHEN BUILDING A BRAND-NEW HOUSE, IT’S EASIER TO ENSURE IT IS ENERGY EFFICIENT AND UP TO CODE AND CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS. YOU HAVE THE ABILITY TO INSTALL ITEMS SUCH AS SOLAR PANELS, LED LIGHTING, HIGH-EFFICIENCY APPLIANCES, HIGH-QUALITY INSULATION, AND LOW-E WINDOWS.

BY BUILDING YOUR HOME TO BE ENERGY EFFICIENT, YOU WILL SAVE MONEY ON YOUR UTILITY BILLS AND PLAY YOUR ROLE IN SAVING THE ENVIRONMENT BY REDUCING YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT.

SAVE MONEY

WHILE A CUSTOM BUILD MAY BE MORE EXPENSIVE UPFRONT, YOU WILL SAVE MONEY IN THE LONG RUN. YOU WILL SAVE BY AVOIDING HIDDEN COSTS WITH BUYING AN EXISTING PROPERTY, SUCH AS REMODELING COSTS, REPAIRS, AND REAL ESTATE COMMISSIONS.

BUILDING A CUSTOM HOME IS A BIG DECISION, AND WHEN YOU TAKE THE TIME TO FIND THE RIGHT BUILDER, YOU’LL BE ABLE TO CREATE YOUR DREAM HOME IN YOUR DREAM NEIGHBORHOOD.

BRING YOUR YARD TO LIFE WITH FLOWERS NATIVE TO THE ILLINOIS CLIMATE. PLANTS AND FLOWERS ARE A GREAT WAY TO LIVEN UP YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE, AS WELL AS HELP LOCAL WILDLIFE FLOURISH.

THERE ARE MANY BENEFITS TO PLANTING NATIVE FLOWERS:

COST EFFECTIVE: ONCE THESE FLOWERS ARE ESTABLISHED, THEY NEED LESS ATTENTION, SAVING YOU MONEY ON WATER AND FERTILIZER.

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: NATIVE FLOWERS ARE LESS SUSCEPTIBLE TO PESTS AND DISEASES AND ALSO HELP TO PREVENT FLOODING.

ATTRACT POLLINATORS: NATIVE FLOWERS ATTRACT BIRDS, BEES, AND BUTTERFLIES, HELPING BUILD A HEALTHY ECOSYSTEM FOR ENDANGERED SPECIES.

HERE ARE SOME FLOWERS THAT GROW WELL IN CHICAGOLAND’S CLIMATE:

WILD BERGAMOT

GROWING TO BETWEEN TWO AND FOUR FEET IN LENGTH, AND WITH LAVENDER OR PINK PETALS THAT EXTEND OUT FROM UPRIGHT TUBES, THESE ARE PICKED STRAIGHT FROM CHILDREN’S BOOK SCENERY. THEY TEND TO BLOOM IN MIDSUMMER AND BRING A LIVELY FEEL TO ANY GARDEN.

WITH THEIR SHOWY FLOWERS AND MINTY OREGANO SCENT, BUMBLEBEES, AND HUMMINGBIRDS ARE ATTRACTED TO THE WILD BERGAMOT. THESE FLOWERS FLOURISH IN FULL TO MEDIUM SUN, BUT CAN ALSO LIVE WELL IN THE SHADE.

CULVER’S ROOT

AS LONG AS YOU PLANT CULVER’S ROOT WHERE IT CAN GET AMPLE SUNLIGHT, THIS IS A BEAUTIFUL PERENNIAL TO ADD TO YOUR CHICAGO GARDEN. WITH TALL SPIKES OF SMALL, TUBULAR LIGHT BLUE, PURPLE, OR WHITE FLOWERS, THEY’RE A GREAT MATCH TO OTHER COLORFUL FLOWERS SUCH AS THE WILD BERGAMOT.

GARDEN PHLOX

DO YOU LIKE PINK? IF SO, GARDEN PHLOX WOULD BE A GREAT ADDITION TO YOUR GARDEN. THESE FLOWERS TEND TO BLOOM IN JULY AND ARE BEST TO STAKE EARLY IN THE GROWING SEASON. DURING THE WINTER MONTHS, IT’S BEST TO CUT THIS PLANT DOWN TO THE GROUND TO HELP REJUVENATE IT AND LESSEN THE RISK OF MILDEW.

BUTTERFLY WEED

 

IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN A COLOR POP FOR YOUR GARDEN AND TO ATTRACT BUTTERFLIES, PLANT BUTTERFLY WEED. PART OF THE MILKWEED FAMILY, THIS FLOWER PLAYS HOST TO THE MONARCH BUTTERFLY, THEREFORE YOU GET TO FEEL GOOD ABOUT HELPING THE ENVIRONMENT AS WELL AS HAVING A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN.

 

NOW THAT WINTER IS HEADING OUT THE DOOR, IT’S TIME TO STOP HIBERNATING AND START ENJOYING THE OUTDOORS AGAIN. TO START OFF THE SPRING CLEANING SEASON, WE HAVE SEVERAL TIPS TO HELP YOU MAKE YOUR HOME LOOK ITS BEST FOR THE WARMER MONTHS!

CLEAN YOUR ROOF & GUTTERS

REMOVE ALL DEBRIS FROM YOUR ROOF, CHECK FOR CRACKED OR BROKEN SHINGLES, AND CLEAN OUT YOUR GUTTERS. CLOGGED GUTTERS CAN DAMAGE YOUR HOME WHEN WATER DOESN’T FLOW AWAY FROM YOUR FOUNDATION.

CLEAN UP YOUR YARD

RAKE UP ALL THE LEAVES ON THE GROUND, REMOVE ANY GARBAGE OR OTHER DEBRIS, AND PRUNE YOUR TREES AND BUSHES. IT’S ALSO A GOOD TIME TO REMOVE ALL WEEDS AND CRABGRASS.

USE A PRESSURE WASHER ON YOUR EXTERIOR

LOAD A PRESSURE WASHER WITH DETERGENT AND REMOVE ALL CAKED-ON DIRT AND GRIME FROM YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR. AND DON’T FORGET TO CLEAN YOUR WINDOWS. USE A WINDOW WASHER OR SQUEEGEE TO ENSURE A CRYSTAL-CLEAR CLEAN.

CAULK AROUND THE WINDOWS

SPEAKING OF WINDOWS, ANY LEAKAGE AROUND YOUR WINDOWS WILL ALLOW THE WARM SUMMER AIR INTO YOUR HOME, SO BE SURE YOU CAULK AND USE WEATHER STRIPPING TO ENSURE NO AIR IS LEAKING INTO YOUR HOME.

PREP YOUR AIR CONDITIONER

JUST AS YOU CHECKED YOUR FURNACE IN THE FALL, IT’S TIME TO CHECK YOUR AC TO ENSURE IT’S READY FOR ACTION. CHANGE THE FILTER, CHECK THE HOSE CONNECTIONS, AND CONTACT YOUR LOCAL TECHNICIANS FOR A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION.

PREP YOUR PATIO

CHECK YOUR PATIO FOR WEAR AND TEAR DAMAGE. CLEAN OFF ALL DEBRIS, SCRUB AND STAIN YOUR DECK TO HELP IT LOOK ITS BEST FOR THE UPCOMING PARTIES AND BARBEQUES. BRING OUT THE PATIO FURNITURE FROM STORAGE AND CHECK THOSE FOR DAMAGE, AS WELL. SET UP YOUR GRILL AND GET READY FOR FUN SPRING AND SUMMER NIGHTS OUTDOORS.

THE WEATHER IS STARTING TO TURN IN CHICAGO. WITH TEMPERATURES DROPPING AND THE WINTER SEASON AROUND THE CORNER, IT BRINGS UP A COMMON QUESTION: DO I START THAT CONSTRUCTION PROJECT OR WAIT UNTIL SPRING?

IT’S A COMPLICATED QUESTION AND GETS MORE COMPLICATED DEPENDING ON LOCATION. OBVIOUSLY, IF YOU LIVE IN A WARM-WEATHER STATE LIKE FLORIDA, STARTING CONSTRUCTION IN DECEMBER ISN’T AS GREAT AN ISSUE AS RESIDENTS OF CHICAGO.

LET’S SEE IF WE CAN’T HELP YOU MAKE THE APPROPRIATE DECISION FOR YOUR NEXT PROJECT.

PROS TO WINTER CONSTRUCTION

THERE ARE SEVERAL BENEFITS TO BEGINNING A CONSTRUCTION PROJECT DURING THE COLD WINTER MONTHS.

SAVE MONEY: SPRING AND SUMMER ARE PEAK SEASONS FOR BUILDERS AND MANUFACTURERS. WITH LESS DEMAND DURING WINTER, YOU CAN GET GREAT DEALS AND SAVE ON OVERALL COSTS.

INCREASED AVAILABILITY: WITH IT BEING THE OFF-SEASON FOR MANY CONTRACTORS, YOU CAN BOOK THE HIGH-QUALITY CONTRACTOR YOU WANT.

FINISH FASTER: WITH LESS DEMAND, BUILDING PERMITS WILL BE APPROVED QUICKER, MEANING YOUR CONTRACTOR CAN GET STARTED SOONER–FINISHING FASTER.

CONS TO WINTER CONSTRUCTION

WHILE THE BENEFITS MAY OUTWEIGH THE CONS FOR YOU, IT IS WISE TO CONSIDER WHAT ISSUES MAY ARISE DURING A WINTER CONSTRUCTION PROJECT.

THE WEATHER: CHICAGO WINTERS ARE UNPREDICTABLE. YOU COULD GET A RUN OF SUNNY DAYS OR GET HIT WITH A HEAVY, WET SNOWSTORM. THE COLD WEATHER COULD FREEZE THE GROUND, AS WELL, ADDING FRUSTRATIONS AND PRECAUTIONARY COSTS.

SHORTER DAYS: LIVING IN CHICAGO, WE ALL KNOW HOW EARLY IT STARTS GETTING DARK DURING WINTER. INSTEAD OF GETTING 8 HOURS OF WORK IN A DAY, THE CREW MAY ONLY GET 6, SLOWING DOWN CONSTRUCTION. NOT TO MENTION, THE NUMBER OF HOLIDAYS MEANS ADDITIONAL DAYS OFF.

HOLIDAY STRESS: WITH MANY HOLIDAYS BEING CELEBRATED DURING THE WINTER MONTHS, YOU’RE INTRODUCING NEW LEVELS OF STRESS TO AN ALREADY STRESSFUL TIME.

AFTER WEIGHING THE PROS AND CONS, MAKE THE BEST DECISION FOR YOU, YOUR FAMILY, AND YOUR BUDGET. IF YOU HAVE ANY ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS REGARDING COMMON WINTER CONSTRUCTION PROBLEMS, THE EXPERT TEAM AT MK CONSTRUCTION & BUILDERS ARE AVAILABLE TO ANSWER THEM.

WITH IT BEING FEBRUARY–THE MONTH OF LOVE–EVERYONE THINKS ABOUT VALENTINE’S DAY AND SPREADING LOVE TO OTHERS. BUT WHAT ABOUT YOUR HOME? 

AT MK CONSTRUCTION & BUILDERS, WE WANT TO SPREAD THE LOVE THIS YEAR BY HELPING YOU BRING MORE LOVE INTO YOUR HOME WITH SOME HELPFUL DIY TIPS.

HANG SOME MISTLETOE

WHO SAID MISTLETOE CAN ONLY HANG AROUND DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER? IF YOU’D LIKE TO MAKE IT MORE FESTIVE FOR FEBRUARY, PAINT IT RED OR ADD SOME HEART DETAILS TO THE PLANT. THERE’S NO BETTER SIGN OF LOVE THAN A KISS.

HEART-SHAPED WREATHS

OK, WE KNOW IT SEEMS AS IF WE’RE STEALING ALL THE IDEAS FROM CHRISTMASTIME; WE GET IT. BUT WHO DOESN’T FEEL WELCOMED INTO A HOME WHEN A WREATH IS HANGING ON ITS FRONT DOOR? A HEART-SHAPED WREATH MADE OF RED, PINK, AND WHITE FLOWERS WILL BE THE *CHEF’S KISS* TO YOUR FEBRUARY HOME DESIGN.

SHOW OFF YOUR LOVE

DEDICATE A SPACE IN YOUR HOME OR AN ENTIRE ROOM TO THE LOVES OF YOUR LIFE. HANG PICTURES OF YOUR LOVED ONES, HOMEMADE DRAWINGS YOUR KIDS MADE, HANG UP SHADOWBOXES FILLED WITH SPECIAL MOMENTS, AND SO ON. YOU CAN’T DO ANYTHING WRONG IN THESE SPACES; IT’S ALL UP TO YOU.

DESIGNATED DECORATIONS

AS WITH EVERY OTHER HOLIDAY YOU DECORATE THE INSIDE OF YOUR HOME TO CELEBRATE, DO THE SAME FOR VALENTINE’S DAY. HEART-SHAPED PILLOWS, PERSONALIZED LOVE QUOTE WALL HANGINGS, CANDLES, TABLE RUNNERS, AND EVERYTHING ELSE LOVE-RELATED.

DON’T FORGET YOUR HOME THIS MONTH OF LOVE. SHOW IT THE WARMTH AND CARE IT SHOWS YOU ALL YEAR ROUND.

NEW YEAR, NEW GOALS. EVERY JANUARY 1, PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD DEVELOP RESOLUTIONS FOR THEMSELVES. BUT HOW ABOUT CREATING CHANGE FOR THE SPACE YOU’RE GOING TO SPEND MOST OF YOUR TIME–YOUR HOME?

BELOW WE WILL ROLL OUT FIVE RESOLUTIONS FOR YOUR HOME THIS YEAR. IF THE HOME TRULY IS WHERE THE HEART IS, MAKE YOUR HEART A BEAUTIFUL, CLEANER, MORE ORGANIZED VERSION OF ITSELF.

#1 GET ORGANIZED

CLUTTER, CLUTTER, CLUTTER. REMOVING CLUTTER FROM SPACES WITHIN YOUR HOME IS THE EASIEST AND LEAST EXPENSIVE WAY TO MAKE YOURSELF FEEL BETTER ABOUT YOUR SPACE.

TO BETTER ORGANIZE YOUR HOME, YOU MUST PERIODICALLY GET RID OF OBJECTS YOU NO LONGER USE OR DISLIKE AND ONLY BRING IN NEW ITEMS YOU TRULY NEED.

HELPFUL TIP: KEEP A DONATIONS BOX IN YOUR HOME TO COLLECT ITEMS YOU WISH TO SELL OR DONATE.

#2 CUT DOWN ON ENERGY USAGE

WHILE YOU’RE IMPROVING YOURSELF AND YOUR HOME, WHY NOT DO THINGS TO HELP IMPROVE THE PLANET?

INSTALLING SOLAR PANELS, RECYCLING PROPERLY, TURNING OFF LIGHTS WHEN NOT IN USE, USING LESS WATER, AS WELL AS SEALING AND INSULATING HVAC DUCTWORK.

ALL OF THESE OPTIONS WILL HELP REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF ENERGY YOU USE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR AND CONTRIBUTE TO A BETTER PLANET.

#3 DEVELOP A CLEANING ROUTINE

BY CREATING A DAILY, WEEKLY, OR MONTHLY CLEANING ROUTINE, YOUR HOME WILL ALWAYS GET THE MOTHER-IN-LAW’S SEAL OF APPROVAL.

BY DIVIDING AND CONQUERING, YOU AND YOUR FAMILY CAN CLEAN THE WHOLE HOUSE IN NO TIME AT ALL. WHILE ONE PERSON WIPES DOWN THE WINDOWS AND SWEEPS THE FLOORS ANOTHER CAN DUST AND VACUUM WHILE OTHERS CLEAN APPLIANCES AND FURNITURE.

HELPFUL TIP: KEEP ALL THE CLEANING SUPPLIES IN AN EASY-TO-FIND, EASY-TO-REACH STORAGE PLACE. AND MAKE NOTES ON HOW TO CLEAN CERTAIN OBJECTS IN YOUR HOME. IMPROPER CLEANING CAN MAKE THINGS WORSE.

#4 MAKE ROOMS MORE WELCOMING

IF YOU ENJOY ENTERTAINING, YOU MAY CHOOSE TO REARRANGE SOME AREAS OF YOUR HOME TO INCREASE THE FEELING OF WELCOME.

BY ADDING COLOR AND CONVERSATION PIECES TO CERTAIN AREAS SUCH AS A GREAT ROOM OR LIVING ROOM, YOU WILL INCREASE THE COMFORT OF YOUR GUESTS AND HAVE BUILT-IN TOPICS OF DISCUSSION.

#5 FAMILY HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

HOW ABOUT CREATING FUN EXERCISES THE ENTIRE FAMILY CAN TAKE PART IN WHILE IMPROVING THE LOOK AND FEEL OF YOUR HOME? WHETHER IT BE PAINTING PICTURES TO HANG ON THE WALL, KNITTING A NEW RUG OR WELCOME MATS FOR EACH BEDROOM, PLANTING A GARDEN, OR PREPARING A HOME EMERGENCY KIT, FIND A CREATIVE WAY TO SPEND TIME AS A FAMILY THIS YEAR.

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT MK CONSTRUCTION & BUILDERS.

WITH ANOTHER BITTERLY COLD WINTER DRAWING NEAR, YOU WANT TO ENSURE THAT YOUR HOME EXUDES BOTH WARMTH AND COMFORT. 

ACCOMPLISHING THIS FEAT MAY FEEL A BIT DAUNTING, HOWEVER, WE’VE COMPILED AN ASSORTMENT OF SIMPLE INTERIOR DESIGN ENHANCEMENTS TO TRANSFORM YOUR EVERYDAY LIVING SPACE INTO A WELCOMING WINTER RETREAT.

USE WARM PAINT COLORS

PASTELS AND HARSH WHITES CAN GIVE YOUR HOME THE COLD, LIFELESS FEELING OF A HOSPITAL ROOM. INSTANTLY TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE WITH A FRESH COAT OF WARM-COLORED PAINT SUCH AS BURNT ORANGE, MUSTARD YELLOW, RICH RED TONES, OR A SHADE OF OLIVE GREEN. IF BOLD WALLS ARE TOO OVERPOWERING FOR YOUR TASTE, CHOOSE A WARM, NEUTRAL SHADE THEN ACCENT WITH YOUR CHOICE OF AUTUMN HUES.

CREATE AN AMBIENCE WITH LIGHTING

EXCHANGE ANY BRIGHT WHITE, COOL WHITE, OR DAYLIGHT BULBS WITH A SOFTER COLOR TEMPERATURE OPTION SUCH AS SOFT WHITE OR WARM WHITE. 

ACCENT WITH FLOOR-LENGTH TABLE SKIRTING

ADDING FLOOR-LENGTH SKIRTING TO END TABLES AND OTHER ACCENT TABLES CREATES A MORE WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT AS WELL AS A QUICK HIDING PLACE FOR MAIL, MAGAZINES, OR BOOKS. CHOOSE A TEXTURED MATERIAL SUCH AS BURLAP OR CORDUROY TO ENHANCE THE OVERALL WARMTH OF YOUR LIVING SPACE. 

REPLACE COLORFUL ACCESSORIES WITH MUTED TONES

IT ISN’T FEASIBLE TO REPLACE LARGE PIECES OF FURNITURE WITH THE CHANGING OF THE SEASONS, BUT YOU CAN EXCHANGE SMALLER ACCESSORIES SUCH AS RUGS, PILLOWS, VASES, AND OTHER DECOR FOR ITEMS WITH MORE MUTED TONES TO CREATE INSTANT WARMTH. FAUX SHEEPSKIN THROWS AND RUGS ADD IRRESISTIBLE SOFTNESS TO LIVING AND FAMILY ROOMS. 

INCORPORATE APPEALING PATTERNS

INVESTING IN A FEW SMALL HOME DECOR ITEMS WITH INVITING PATTERNS SUCH AS HERRINGBONE, TWEED, TARTAN, AND BUFFALO CHECK PLAID CAN HELP ACHIEVE A MORE WELCOMING ATMOSPHERE.

LINE TABLES WITH INVITING FABRIC OR RUNNERS

HEAVY TABLECLOTHS CAN CAUSE A BEAUTIFULLY DECORATED TABLE TO APPEAR CLUTTERED. BY LINING YOUR TABLE WITH A LIGHTLY TEXTURED RUNNER OR LONG, DECORATIVE SCARF, YOU CAN ELEVATE YOUR DINING EXPERIENCE WITHOUT LEAVING YOUR GUESTS FEELING OVERWHELMED. 

ADD TEXTURE WITH PILLOWS

AN ASSORTMENT OF RICHLY COLORED PILLOWS IN COMPLEMENTARY PATTERNS CAN CREATE A MORE INVITING SITTING AREA. INCLUDING A FEW MATCHING THROW BLANKETS WILL ENSURE THE COMFORT OF YOUR GUESTS. 

REPLACE WINDOW TREATMENTS

EXCHANGING YOUR THIN SUMMER SHEERS FOR THICK, PATTERNED DRAPES CAN GIVE YOUR HOME AN ELEGANT, POLISHED LOOK WHILE KEEPING THE WINTER CHILL OUT.

CREATE A TOUCH OF NOSTALGIA WITH QUILTS

IF YOU HAVE A BOX FULL OF FAMILY HEIRLOOM QUILTS TAKING UP SPACE IN YOUR CLOSET, NOW IS THE TIME TO PUT THEM TO GOOD USE. FEW THINGS BRING BACK THAT WARM-HEARTED NOSTALGIA LIKE AN OLD, WELL-LOVED QUILT. THESE CHERISHED PIECES CAN BE MOUNTED ON THE WALL, LAYERED ACROSS YOUR BED, OR DRAPED OVER ARMCHAIRS AND SOFAS TO ADD THAT EXTRA TOUCH OF YESTERYEAR TO YOUR LIVING SPACE.  

REARRANGE FURNITURE AROUND THE FIREPLACE

THE HEARTH IS A NATURAL CONVERSATION AREA SO WHY NOT REARRANGE YOUR FURNITURE SO THAT YOUR FAMILY CAN ENJOY EACH OTHERS COMPANY WHILE RELAXING IN FRONT OF THE CRACKLING FIRE? 

INCORPORATE WARM AROMAS

NOTHING MAKES A HOME SMELL MORE WELCOMING THAN A FRESHLY BAKED HOMEMADE APPLE PIE, HOWEVER, MOST HOMEOWNERS DON’T HAVE THE TIME TO KEEP THAT UP ALL WINTER LONG. CANDLES MAKE AN EXCEPTIONAL ALTERNATIVE AND OFFER A VARIETY OF WARM INVITING SCENTS INCLUDING MULLED WINE, SPICED APPLE, CLOVE, AND CINNAMON. 

MAKE NATURE YOUR MUSE

YOU DON’T HAVE TO LOOK FAR TO FIND THE MOST STUNNING ELEMENTS TO ADD TO YOUR WINTER DECOR. A SHORT STROLL OUTSIDE WILL PRESENT AN ASSORTMENT OF DECORATIONS THAT WILL MAKE YOUR HOME WORTHY OF A MAGAZINE COVER. 

FILL A SIMPLE COPPER WIRE BOWL WITH PINECONES AND A FEW PINE SPRIGS THEN PLACE IT ON YOUR COUNTERTOP. WRAP A SMALL BUNDLE OF TWIGS WITH VELVET RIBBON AND PLACE IT NEXT TO A LAMP OR CANDLE. THE OPTIONS ARE ENDLESS. 

ACCENT WITH GOLD, BRONZE, OR COPPER

ALTHOUGH STUNNING IN THEIR OWN RIGHT, SILVER AND STAINLESS STEEL EMANATE A MUCH COOLER FEELING THAN THEIR WARMER COUNTERPARTS. REPLACING HARDWARE, PULLS, AND CANDLESTICKS WITH GOLD, BRONZE, OR COPPER OPTIONS CAN INSTANTLY TRANSFORM YOUR ROOM. 

QUALITY DESIGN FOR YOUR NEXT HOME PROJECT

ELEVATE YOUR REAL ESTATE VALUE WITH MK CONSTRUCTION & BUILDERS INC.

WITH OVER A DECADE OF REMODELING EXPERIENCE, YOU CAN REST ASSURED THAT OUR TEAM IS DEDICATED TO DELIVERING ONLY THE MOST BEAUTIFUL, HIGH-QUALITY SERVICES TO OUR CLIENTELE. 

FROM REMODELING A TOWNHOME IN WEST TOWN TO LINCOLN PARK’S NEW CONSTRUCTION, PLEASE CONTACT MK CONSTRUCTION TO DISCUSS YOUR NEXT PROJECT.

EVERY DINNER PARTY HOST WANTS TO WOW THEIR FRIENDS AND FAMILY WITH A WELCOMING KITCHEN DESIGN.

WHILE YOU MIGHT NOT BE ABLE TO COMPLETE A GRANDIOSE KITCHEN REMODEL BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS THIS YEAR, YOU’LL STILL BE ABLE TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SPACE THROUGH THE UTILIZATION OF LIGHTING, COUNTERTOPS, AND SEATING. OUR EXPERTS HAVE GATHERED SEVERAL HOME IMPROVEMENT TIPS THAT CAN ENHANCE YOUR GUESTS EXPERIENCE DURING A HOLIDAY PARTY.

HIDE COUNTERTOP APPLIANCES

FEW THINGS BRING DOWN A SPACE MORE THAN UNNECESSARY CLUTTER. REMOVE SMALL APPLIANCES FROM THE COUNTERTOPS TO CREATE A SLEEK, OPEN APPEARANCE. 

REFRESH WINDOW TREATMENTS

RETIRE YOUR DATED CURTAINS AND REPLACE THEM WITH STYLISH NEW WINDOW TREATMENTS. THIS SIMPLE UPGRADE WILL CHANGE THE AESTHETIC OF YOUR ENTIRE KITCHEN.

UPDATE LIGHTING

CHANGE YOUR CURRENT LIGHTING FIXTURES AND OPT FOR AN ELEGANT CONVERSATION PIECE SUCH AS A STUNNING PENDANT OR CHANDELIER. 

CREATING THE ILLUSION OF STAINLESS STEEL

APPLYING A PAINT-ON STAINLESS STEEL FINISH WILL GIVE YOUR WORN-OUT APPLIANCES A MUCH-NEEDED FACELIFT UNTIL YOU CAN SCHEDULE YOUR KITCHEN REMODEL. TAKE CAUTION AS THERE ARE SEVERAL OPTIONS OF LIQUID STAINLESS STEEL AVAILABLE DEPENDING ON THE INTENDED APPLIANCE AND ITS USE.

MODERNIZE CABINET DOORS

UPGRADE YOUR CABINET DOORS WITH A FRESH COAT OF PAINT. IN SOME AREAS, YOU MAY CHOOSE TO REMOVE DOORS ALTOGETHER TO ALLOW SPACE TO SHOWCASE YOUR FINEST PIECES. 

REPLACE HARDWARE

EXCHANGING YOUR OUTDATED HARDWARE WITH UNIQUE DRAWER AND CABINET PULLS CAN INSTANTLY REJUVENATE THE OVERALL LOOK OF YOUR KITCHEN.

ILLUMINATE SPACE WITH LIGHTER COLORS

REFRESHING YOUR KITCHEN WALLS WITH A COAT OF LIGHT COLORED PAINT WILL BRIGHTEN YOUR SPACE AND GIVE THE ILLUSION OF A LARGER AREA TO ENTERTAIN IN. 

INCORPORATE ARTWORK

ADORN YOUR WALLS WITH LARGE, BOLD ART PIECES TO INSTANTLY ELEVATE YOUR ROOM AND CREATE THE APPEARANCE OF A LARGER SPACE.

ENHANCE DINING AREAS

ADD FINISHING TOUCHES LIKE CHIC CENTERPIECES AND FRESH FLOWERS TO BUFFET TABLES, COFFEE BARS, AND DINING AREAS TO PROVIDE YOUR GUESTS WITH A POLISHED AND FESTIVE AREA TO ENJOY THEMSELVES IN. 

PAY ATTENTION TO POTENTIAL PROBLEM AREAS AT YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY GATHERING TO PLAN YOUR PERFECT KITCHEN REMODEL

YOUR UPCOMING HOLIDAY GATHERING IS THE PERFECT TIME TO DETERMINE AREAS OF YOUR KITCHEN THAT AREN’T INDICATIVE OF YOUR CURRENT LIFESTYLE. 

DETERMINE THE STATE OF YOUR KITCHEN SURROUNDINGS

ARE YOUR COUNTERTOPS CHIPPED, CRACKED, OR SIMPLY UNATTRACTIVE?

ARE YOUR CABINETS OUTDATED, DAMAGED, OR FAIL TO MEET YOUR CURRENT STORAGE NEEDS?

ARE YOUR WALLS DINGY, DAMAGED, HAVE CHIPPING PAINT, OR RIPPED WALLPAPER?

IF YOUR KITCHEN IS CARPETED, IS THE CARPET WORN, THIN, OR BEYOND CLEANING? IF YOU HAVE A TILE FLOOR, DO YOU HAVE MISSING, LOOSE, OR DAMAGED TILES? IF YOUR KITCHEN FLOORING IS LAMINATE, IS IT TORN, LOOSE, OR DAMAGED?

ARE YOUR APPLIANCES WORN OUT AND PAST THEIR PRIME? 

DETERMINE YOUR CURRENT NEEDS

DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH STORAGE SPACE? WOULD YOU BENEFIT FROM HAVING MORE CABINETS OR SHELVING INSTALLED?

DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH MEAL PREPARATION SPACE? WOULD YOU FIND A KITCHEN ISLAND OR EXTENDED COUNTER SPACE HELPFUL?

DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH SEATING SPACE TO ENSURE YOUR GUESTS ARE COMFORTABLE WHEN THEY VISIT? WOULD ADDING A BREAKFAST NOOK SOLVE THIS ISSUE OR WOULD YOU PREFER TO INCREASE THE SIZE OF YOUR KITCHEN AREA?

DO YOU HAVE THE APPLIANCES YOU NEED SUCH AS A DISHWASHER OR GARBAGE DISPOSAL?

IF YOU ENTERTAIN OFTEN, WOULD A SEPARATE BAR AREA BETTER ACCOMMODATE YOUR NEEDS?

CHICAGO’S EXPERTS IN QUALITY KITCHEN REMODELS 

NEVER SETTLE FOR SECOND BEST WHEN IT COMES TO REINVENTING YOUR HOME’S AESTHETIC. MK CONSTRUCTION & BUILDERS INC. DELIVERS HIGH-END HOME REMODELS THAT ARE BOTH EXQUISITE AND FUNCTIONAL TO ENHANCE THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF YOUR SPACE. 

OUR TEAM OF EXPERIENCED BUILDING PROFESSIONALS IS DEDICATED TO MEETING YOUR HIGHEST STANDARDS, ELEVATING THE STYLE OF YOUR HOME, AND PROVIDING THE ULTIMATE IN COMFORT. CONTACT OUR EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE TEAM TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH ONE OF OUR DESIGN EXPERTS.

SUMMER IS COMING TO AN END AND IT’S TIME TO SHIFT OUR FOCUS TO ANOTHER YEAR OF GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT FOR OUR CHILDREN. BUT IT’S ALSO A GREAT TIME TO CONSIDER GROWING AND DEVELOPING YOUR HOME WITH THE HELP OF PROFESSIONAL REMODELING CONTRACTORS.

WITH VIRTUAL AND HYBRID SCHOOLING BECOMING THE NEW NORMAL, THESE BACK-TO-SCHOOL HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS CAN HELP ENHANCE THE FUNCTIONALITY OF YOUR HOME.

A STUDY SPACE

YOUR KIDS NEED A DEDICATED AREA IN THE HOME THAT ALLOWS THEM TO FOCUS ON THEIR SCHOOLWORK. BY DESIGNING AND BUILDING A STUDY SPACE, YOU’RE CREATING AN AREA IN THE HOME FREE FROM DISTRACTIONS. THE IDEAL AREA WOULD INCLUDE A DESKTOP, AMPLE STORAGE FOR SUPPLIES, AND KID-FRIENDLY ERGONOMIC SEATING.

THIS HOME RENOVATION OR ADDITION PROJECT CAN BE AN IMPORTANT EXTRA SPACE IN YOUR HOME AIDING IN THE EDUCATION OF YOUR CHILDREN. WHETHER YOU’RE RENOVATING AN EXISTING HOME OFFICE OR DESIGNING AN ENTIRELY NEW SPACE, BE SURE TO REINFORCE THE DESIGN AND STYLE OF THE REST OF YOUR HOME SO IT DOESN’T SEEM OUT OF PLACE.

A BACKPACK & SHOE DROP-OFF STATION

WHAT IS THE FIRST THING KIDS DO WHEN THEY GET HOME FROM SCHOOL? THEY TAKE OFF THEIR SHOES AND BACKPACK AND FLING THEM ONTO THE GROUND. HELP REDUCE THE STRESS OF THE MISSING SHOE IN THE MORNING OR SCHOOL PAPERS NOT WHERE THEY NEED TO BE BY DESIGNING A CUSTOM STORAGE LOCATION IN YOUR HOME.

IF YOU’RE LUCKY ENOUGH TO HAVE A MUDROOM OR EXTRA SPACE IN YOUR FOYER, CREATING AN ORGANIZED STORAGE SPACE COULD BE EASY. INDIVIDUAL CUBBIES WITH HOOKS AND CABINETS CAN HELP KEEP EACH CHILD’S SCHOOL MATERIALS ORGANIZED AND READY TO GRAB AND GO.

BEDROOM REDESIGN

STUDIES HAVE SHOWN THAT WHEN SCHOOLCHILDREN DO NOT GET ENOUGH SLEEP, THEY LACK FOCUS AND MOTIVATION. SLEEP IS A CRUCIAL EXERCISE IN A STUDENT’S ABILITY TO RETAIN THE INFORMATION THEY’RE LEARNING IN SCHOOL. BY CREATING A SPACE DESIGNED AROUND YOUR CHILD AND CONDUCIVE TO REST, YOUR CHILD WILL MAINTAIN A HEALTHY SLEEP SCHEDULE.

FROM A FRESH BATCH OF PAINT ON THE WALLS AND TRIM TO NEW LIGHTING FIXTURES TO MAXIMIZING STORAGE OPTIONS, THE DESIGN AND REMODEL OF THE ROOM DO NOT ALWAYS NEED TO BE EXTENSIVE. SMALL CHANGES CAN ELEVATE THE SPACE AND MAKE IT FEEL MORE LIKE THEIR OWN.

EMPTY NEST?

MAYBE THIS SCHOOL YEAR IS YOUR YOUNGEST CHILD’S LAST OR THEY’RE MOVING OUT OF STATE FOR COLLEGE. IF THAT IS THE CASE, YOU CAN TAKE ON SEVERAL DIFFERENT REMODEL PROJECTS. YOU CAN TURN A BEDROOM INTO A HOME OFFICE, YOGA STUDIO, CRAFTING ROOM, READING ROOM, OR GUEST BEDROOM.

BECOMING AN EMPTY NESTER CAN BE BITTERSWEET BUT THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS FOR CREATING A SPACE MORE INDICATIVE OF YOUR CURRENT LIFESTYLE.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN HOME ADDITIONS IN CHICAGO OR HINSDALE, IL? MK CONSTRUCTION CAN HELP YOU TURN YOUR HOME INTO A HUB FOR EDUCATIONAL SUCCESS AND BEYOND. FROM KITCHEN REMODELS TO MASTER BATHROOM REMODELS, TRUST OUR EXPERT BUILDERS TO DO A GREAT JOB.

VACATION SEASON IS IN FULL SWING BUT WE’D LIKE TO HIGHLIGHT A FEW HOME REMODELING PROJECTS THAT WILL MAKE IT FEEL LIKE STAYCATION SEASON.

REPLACE YOUR SIDING

ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS IN SUMMER IS HOME SIDING REPLACEMENT. THE END RESULT WILL BE A HIGH-QUALITY HOME MAKEOVER MAKING YOU FEEL AS IF YOU’RE MOVING INTO A NEW HOME.

BEFORE CHOOSING TO REPLACE YOUR SIDING, WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND RESEARCHING REMODELING COMPANIES IN CHICAGO. THIS IS A PROJECT THAT REQUIRES HIGHLY PRECISE MEASUREMENTS AND INSTALLATION TO ENSURE PROPER PROTECTION FOR YOUR HOME.

STAIN YOUR DECK

GIVING YOUR BACKYARD A FRESH LOOK IS A SUMMERTIME STAPLE. WHEN THE WEATHER IS WARM IN THE CHICAGO AREA, WE SPEND MORE TIME OUTDOORS. ENHANCING THE BEAUTY OF YOUR BACKYARD IS A GREAT WAY TO INVITE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY TO SPEND QUALITY TIME AT HOME. STAINING YOUR DECK IS AN EASY AND QUICK WAY TO ADD BEAUTY TO YOUR BACKYARD.

RESEAL YOUR COUNTERTOPS

NOT ALL SUMMER PROJECTS NEED TO BE DONE OUTDOORS. IF YOU HAVE MARBLE OR GRANITE COUNTERTOPS IN YOUR HOME, YOU CAN HELP PREVENT STAINING BY SEALING THEM REGULARLY.

KITCHEN REMODELING IN CHICAGO DOESN’T HAVE TO BE A WINTERTIME EVENT. TAKE TIME THIS SUMMER TO FRESHEN UP YOUR KITCHEN, BATHROOM, AND WET BAR COUNTERTOPS.

INSTALL AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN

WANT TO SPEND MORE TIME OUTDOORS? MAKING MORE FOOD AND DRINKS ACCESSIBLE IS A GREAT WAY TO INVITE THIS OPTION. BY ADDING A BAR, NEW GRILL, SMOKER, KITCHEN ISLAND, AND SEATING, YOUR BACKYARD WILL BECOME THE DEFINITION OF STAYCATION MODE.

REPLACE YOUR WINDOWS

SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO REPLACE YOUR OLD, INEFFICIENT WINDOWS. OR, TO ADD A FRESH, MODERN LOOK TO YOUR CHICAGO HOME. WITH COLD WEATHER RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER, REMOVE THE WORRY OF A CHILLY, DRAFTY HOUSE AND HIGH ENERGY BILLS.

BUILD A SHED

WANT TO ADD MORE SPACE TO YOUR PLACE? IS YOUR GARAGE OVERFLOWING WITH TOYS, TOOLS, AND BOXES OF JUNK? LET’S CHANGE THAT THIS SUMMER BY BUILDING A SHED TO STORE SOME OF YOUR STUFF. THERE IS EVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO CONVERT YOUR SHED INTO A HOME OFFICE, GUESTHOUSE, GAME ROOM, OR (WO)MAN CAVE.

THERE ARE PLENTY OF WAYS TO ENHANCE THE BEAUTY OF YOUR HOME THIS SUMMER. ADD SOME FIREWORKS TO YOUR STAY-AT-HOME PLANS THIS SUMMER BY COMPLETING ANY (OR ALL) OF THESE OUTLINED PROJECTS.

THE WEATHER IS STARTING TO TURN HERE IN CHICAGO, AND SUMMER IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER. ONCE IT GETS NICE ENOUGH TO SPEND TIME OUTDOORS WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY, YOU NEED A SPACE WORTHY OF YOUR TIME. HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO SUMMERIZE YOUR SPACE:

CREATE AN OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

IF YOU DON’T HAVE A DECK OR PATIO IN YOUR BACKYARD, IT MAY BE TIME TO CONSIDER BUILDING ONE. IF YOU ARE LUCKY ENOUGH TO ALREADY HAVE ONE, IT’S TIME TO BUILD UPON ITS FEATURES. START BY FURNISHING IT IN THE STYLE OF EVENTS YOU WOULD LIKE TO THROW.

IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO HAVE OUTDOOR DINNER PARTIES, CONSIDER CREATING AN OUTDOOR DINING AREA, COMPLETE WITH A FULL DINING TABLE AND COMFORTABLE SEATING. FINISH THE LOOK WITH EXQUISITE LIGHTING, TABLE COVERING, AND PLACE SETTINGS.

WHEN DEALING WITH A SMALLER AREA, CONSIDER A BISTRO TABLE AND BAR STOOLS. NO MATTER THE SPACE, CREATE A WELCOMING SPACE WHERE FRIENDS AND FAMILY CAN COME TOGETHER FOR A BITE TO EAT, A BEVERAGE OR TWO, DANCE TO MUSIC, OR HOWEVER YOU GET DOWN DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS.

STRING UP SOME LIGHTS

NOT EVERYONE WANTS A DECK OR PATIO, BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN YOU CAN’T CREATE AN AMBIANCE IN YOUR OWN YARD. BY SIMPLY STRINGING LIGHTS ON YOUR FENCE, PERGOLA, OR EVEN TREES, YOU’LL CREATE A CHIC LOOK YOUR FRIENDS WILL ENJOY AND YOUR NEIGHBORS WILL ADORE.

ADD SOME APPLIANCES

THAT CHARCOAL GRILL YOU’VE HAD FOR OVER A DECADE GETS THE JOB DONE, BUT IT MAY BE TIME FOR AN UPGRADE. INVESTING IN A FANCY BARBECUE STATION, EQUIPPED WITH A GRILL, GRIDDLE, AND/OR SMOKER WILL TURN YOUR BACKYARD DECK INTO A FIVE-STAR DINER.

IF GRILLING ISN’T YOUR THING, PERHAPS ADDING A WINE FRIDGE, PIZZA OVEN, OR JUST A FIRE PIT WILL SPICE UP YOUR NIGHT-IN.

PRIVACY PLEASE

TIRED OF NOSY NEIGHBORS ALWAYS BEING ABLE TO SEE WHAT YOU ARE UP TO IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD? IF YOU ARE DYING FOR SOME PRIVACY ON YOUR PROPERTY, CONSIDER PUTTING UP A PRIVACY WALL. WHETHER IT’S A SCREEN, SOME TALL SHRUBBERY, OR A PRIVACY FENCE, YOU CAN CUSTOMIZE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE TO YOUR OWN PERSONAL NEEDS.

GONE SWIMMING

LASTLY, BUT SURELY NOT LEAST, IS A SWIMMING POOL. THERE IS NO BETTER WAY TO COOL OFF ON THOSE HOT SUMMER CHICAGO NIGHTS THAN BY TAKING A DIP IN A POOL. WHETHER YOU WANT TO GO ABOVE-GROUND, IN-GROUND, INFINITY POOL, OR KEEP IT WARM WITH A HOT TUB, YOU WON’T FIND A BETTER ADDITION TO YOUR BACKYARD. INSTANTLY BECOME THE PARTY HOUSE WITH THE ADDITION OF A SWIMMING POOL.

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS… AND WEEDS HERE IN CHICAGO. IF YOU’RE PLANNING ON STARTING A GARDEN, WE HAVE SOME HELPFUL TIPS TO HELP EVERYTHING YOU GROW BLOSSOM AND BLOOM.

PLAN YOUR LAYOUT

BEFORE YOU PICK UP THE SHOVEL AND START THROWING SEEDS INTO THE GROUND, TAKE SOME TIME TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SPACE FOR YOUR GARDEN. FIND A PLACE IN YOUR YARD THAT GETS 6-8 HOURS OF SUNLIGHT EACH DAY AND ONE THAT IS CLOSE TO A WATER SOURCE AND EASILY ACCESSIBLE.

DECIDE WHETHER YOU WANT TO PLANT DIRECTLY INTO THE GROUND OR USE RAISED BEDS.

USE THE RIGHT SOIL

DON’T USE POTTING SOIL OR SOIL YOUR LANDSCAPER LEFT LYING AROUND. WE RECOMMEND STARTING WITH A GOOD ORGANIC VEGGIE MIX, ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON STARTING A VEGETABLE GARDEN.

AS YOUR GARDEN GROWS EACH YEAR, FORTIFY YOUR SOIL WITH ORGANIC FERTILIZER, LEAF COMPOST, OR COMPOSTED MANURE. BY ADDING SEVERAL INCHES OF THESE LATE SPRING AND EARLY FALL, YOUR SOIL WILL BE ENRICHED AND THE GARDENING PROCESS WILL BE SUSTAINABLE.

TEND TO, BUT DON’T OVER-TEND TO YOUR GARDEN

MANY FIRST-TIME GARDENERS MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE. THEY WILL WATER THEIR GARDEN TOO OFTEN, PULL “WEEDS” THAT ARE ACTUALLY SEEDLINGS, AND OVERUSE FERTILIZER.

TO ENSURE A GREAT CROP, YOU’LL WANT TO WATER OFTEN–ABOUT THREE TIMES A WEEK. HOWEVER, IF THE PLANTS ARE SEEDLINGS, YOU’LL WANT TO WATER THEM TWICE A DAY TO HELP ENSURE PROPER GROWTH.

MAKE SURE THE SOIL STAYS MOIST AND FRESH, NEVER DRY. BUT, DON’T BE AFRAID TO SOMETIMES LEAVE YOUR GARDEN BE.

HAVE FUN

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER IS TO HAVE FUN WITH YOUR GARDEN. DON’T COMPARE IT TO YOUR NEIGHBORS’ GARDENS OR THINK OF IT AS A SPORT. SOME YEARS YOUR PLANTS WILL FLOURISH, OTHERS YOU’LL SEEM TO FAIL, BUT THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CAN DO IS ENJOY THE TIME YOU SPEND CREATING, PLANTING, AND TENDING TO YOUR GARDEN.

HAPPY PLANTING, CHICAGO!

‘APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS’… AND AMPLE OPPORTUNITIES FOR WATER TO LEAK INTO YOUR HOME. IN THE CHICAGOLAND AREA, IT’S IMPORTANT TO TAKE PREVENTATIVE STEPS TO ENSURE YOUR HOME IS SAFE FROM THE HEAVY SPRING RAINFALL.

HERE ARE FOUR WAYS TO HELP PREVENT FLOODING AND OTHER PROPERTY DAMAGE CAUSED BY SPRINGTIME SHOWERS:

CLEAR OUT YOUR GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS

DURING THE MONTH OF APRIL, YOUR GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS ARE PUT TO THE TEST, WORKING TO CATCH ALL THAT RAINWATER AND PUSH IT AWAY FROM YOUR HOME. IT’S IMPORTANT TO MAKE SURE YOUR GUTTERS ARE CLEAR OF ANY DEBRIS AND ARE WELL-SECURED TO YOUR HOME.

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A PROJECT, ADDING GUTTER SHIELDS OR SCREENS CAN HELP KEEP DEBRIS FROM BUILDING UP INSIDE YOUR GUTTERS, PREVENTING OVERFLOW.

LASTLY, CHECK YOUR DOWNSPOUTS TO ENSURE WATER IS FLOWING CLEANLY INSIDE THE SPOUTS AND AWAY FROM YOUR HOME.

CHECK YOUR HOME FOR LEAKS

YOU SHOULD REGULARLY CHECK YOUR HOME FOR WATER DAMAGE AND LEAKS, ESPECIALLY AS YOU PREPARE FOR MONTHS KNOWN FOR HIGH RAINFALLS.

LOOK FOR WATER MARKS OR MOISTURE ON THE ROOF, UNDERNEATH WINDOWS, AND ON EXTERIOR WALLS. TAKE SOME TIME TO WALK AROUND YOUR HOME AND LOOK FOR CRACKS, HOLES, OR OTHER DAMAGE AROUND THE FOUNDATION OF YOUR HOME, WINDOWS OR SKYLIGHTS, AND THE ROOF.

AND DON’T FORGET TO CHECK UNDERNEATH SINKS AND AROUND APPLIANCES FOR LEAKS, AS WELL. IF YOU FIND ANY LEAKS IN OR AROUND YOUR HOME, YOU MAY WISH TO CALL A PROFESSIONAL TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE.

CHECK YOUR PUMPS

IF YOU LIVE IN THE CHICAGOLAND AREA, CHANCES ARE GOOD YOUR HOME HAS BEEN SAVED FROM THE RAIN BY A SUMP PUMP AND/OR EJECTOR PUMP.

BEFORE HEAVY RAIN SEASONS BEGIN, TEST YOUR PUMPS TO ENSURE THEY’RE WORKING PROPERLY AND EFFECTIVELY. IF THEY’RE OLDER MODELS, YOU MAY WANT TO HAVE THEM SERVICED BY A PROFESSIONAL, OR HAVE NEW ONES INSTALLED. BETTER TO CHECK NOW THAN WAKE UP TO A FLOODED BASEMENT.

THE WEATHER IS TURNING WARM HERE IN CHICAGO, WHICH MEANS IT’S TIME TO GET YOUR HOME OUT OF THE WINTER BLUES AND FRESHEN IT UP! STANDING BACK AND LOOKING AT THE SPRING CLEANING YOUR HOME NEEDS CAN SEEM DAUNTING. BUT, WITH THESE HELPFUL TIPS, IT WON’T BE DIFFICULT AT ALL.

DECLUTTER

MOST HOMES ARE FILLED WITH THINGS THE HOMEOWNER EITHER DOESN’T USE ANYMORE OR DOESN’T NEED. IT’S TIME TO GET RID OF THE CLUTTER.

TAKE SOME TIME TO IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM AREAS IN YOUR HOME, WHETHER IT BE THE JUNK DRAWER IN THE KITCHEN OR STUFFED-TO-THE-BRIM GARAGE CABINETS. ONCE YOU’VE FOUND ALL THE AREAS THAT NEED DECLUTTERING, SORT YOUR BELONGINGS INTO FOUR DIFFERENT CATEGORIES–GARBAGE, DONATIONS, STORAGE, AND KEEPING.

GET RID OF THE JUNK AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. DON’T LET IT SIT AROUND AND BECOME MORE CLUTTER. DONATE IT TO GOODWILL, HAVE A GARAGE SALE, OR THROW IT AWAY.

CLEAN ROOM BY ROOM

THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO APPROACH SPRING CLEANING IS TO CLEAN ONE ROOM AT A TIME. CREATE SPECIFIC CHECKLISTS FOR EACH ROOM TO KEEP THE PROCESS ORGANIZED AND TO REMIND YOU OF AREAS THAT NEED EXTRA ATTENTION.

FOCUS FIRST ON THE AREAS OF YOUR HOME THAT WERE MOST NEGLECTED DURING THE WINTER MONTHS.

PUT THE FAMILY TO WOR

GETTING THE ENTIRE HOUSEHOLD INVOLVED IN SPRING CLEANING CAN HELP MAKE THE CLEANING PROCESS FASTER, AND ALSO MORE FUN! ASSIGN AGE-APPROPRIATE TASKS TO THE KIDS AND MAKE THEM FEEL INCLUDED. THROW ON SOME MUSIC OR MAKE A GAME OUT OF IT, AND ESTABLISH A REWARD FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY AS AN INCENTIVE TO GET THE JOB DONE.

ESTABLISH NEW CLEANING HABITS

USE SPRING CLEANING AS A WAY TO ESTABLISH A NEW, ONGOING CLEANING ROUTINE. BY DOING SO, YOU’LL MAKE NEXT YEAR’S SPRING CLEANING EASIER.

DON’T TRY AND COMPLETE YOUR ENTIRE SPRING CLEANING IN ONE DAY OR EVEN ONE WEEKEND. TAKE 15 OR 30 MINUTES EACH DAY TO TACKLE ONE SPECIFIC TO-DO. THIS WILL GET YOU USED TO TIDYING THINGS UP FOR 15 MINUTES EACH DAY EVEN AFTER SPRING CLEANING HAS ENDED.

ONCE YOU’VE COMPLETED YOUR SPRING CLEANING, MAKE SURE TO TAKE SOME TIME TO ENJOY YOUR NEWLY REFRESHED HOME. IT’S IMPORTANT TO CELEBRATE YOUR HARD WORK AS IT CAN HELP THE CLEANING PROCESS SEEM LESS OF A CHORE.

WITH THE PANDEMIC AND THE HIGH-PRESSURE SITUATION OF SCORING THAT COVETED RESERVATION, PERHAPS PLANNING A ROMANTIC VALENTINE’S DAY AT HOME IS A BETTER OPTION THIS YEAR.

HERE ARE SOME COZY DATE IDEAS FOR YOU TO PLAN FOR YOUR FAVORITE PERSON.

NETFLIX AND CHILL

THIS MIGHT BE THE MOST OBVIOUS CHOICE. BUT, THERE ARE EASY WAYS TO MAKE IT MORE SPECIAL THAN EVERY OTHER NIGHT YOU SPEND BINGING NETFLIX.

CREATE A SPECIAL LINEUP OF YOUR HONEY’S FAVORITE SHOWS OR REWATCH THE MOVIE YOU SAW ON YOUR FIRST DATE. BY ADDING SOMETHING SENTIMENTAL TO THE NIGHT, IT WILL MAKE IT A WORTHY VALENTINE’S DAY CELEBRATION.

AND, DON’T FORGET TO ORDER IN YOUR FAVORITE MEAL OR PUT TOGETHER A TASTY SMORGASBORD OF DESSERTS THAT YOU CAN BOTH ENJOY THROUGHOUT THE NIGHT.

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY

WHEN’S THE LAST TIME YOU AND YOUR LOVER SLOW-DANCED TOGETHER? IF IT’S BEEN A LONG WHILE, PLAN A DATE NIGHT CENTERED AROUND THE TWO OF YOU GETTING CLOSE ON THE DANCE FLOOR THAT IS YOUR KITCHEN, LIVING ROOM, OR BEDROOM.

IT MIGHT BE THE PERFECT TIME FOR THE TWO OF YOU TO GET DRESSED UP AND LEARN A NEW DANCE. FIND A TUTORIAL FOR THE CHA-CHA OR FOXTROT ON YOUTUBE AND LEARN IT TOGETHER. IT’S OK IF YOU BOTH HAVE TWO LEFT FEET – YOU CAN ENJOY LEARNING SOMETHING TOGETHER AND LAUGHING WITH EACH OTHER.

COOK A MEAL TOGETHER

THERE’S NOTHING MORE INTIMATE THAN COOKING WITH THE PERSON YOU LOVE THE MOST. SPEND SOME TIME CREATING A DISH YOU BOTH HAVE ALWAYS WANTED TO TRY OR BAKING YOUR FAVORITE DESSERT.

MAKE IT A FIVE-COURSE MEAL TYPE OF NIGHT OR RETURN TO YOUR CHILDHOOD ROOTS WITH PB&J. THE WHOLE POINT IS TO SPEND TIME NEXT TO EACH OTHER BUILDING SOMETHING TOGETHER, AND SHOWING LOVE THROUGH EFFORT.

HOMEMADE SPA NIGHT

YOUR VALENTINE DESERVES SOME PAMPERING. GO ALL OUT WITH CANDLES, FACE MASKS, RELAXING MUSIC, AND MASSAGE OILS.

SURPRISE YOUR PARTNER WITH A NEW FOOT SPA OR SPECIAL BUBBLE BATH TO ENHANCE THE FEEL OF THE SPA EXPERIENCE.

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

WHATEVER YOU CHOOSE TO DO, WE HOPE YOU HAVE AN AMAZING TIME WITH THE ONES CLOSEST TO YOU THIS VALENTINE’S DAY.

AS A RESPECTED CUSTOM HOME BUILDER, WE UNDERSTAND NOT EVERYONE HAS THE ABILITY TO PLAN A MAJOR RENOVATION TO THEIR HOME. BECAUSE OF THIS, WE THOUGHT WE’D SHARE SOME SIMPLE IMPROVEMENTS YOU CAN MAKE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR TO MAKE YOUR HOME FEEL BRAND NEW.

NEW YEAR, NEW COLORS

THE EARLY MONTHS OF THE YEAR, WHEN IT’S COLD AND YOU’RE EXPERIENCING CABIN FEVER, ARE THE PERFECT MONTHS TO PAINT.

PICK ONE ROOM OR SEVERAL ROOMS IN YOUR HOME AND PAINT THE WALLS A DIFFERENT COLOR. YOU’LL FIND THAT CHANGING THE COLORS OF A ROOM MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE WITHOUT MAKING A BIG DENT IN YOUR BANK ACCOUNT.

IF YOU WANT TO GET CREATIVE, HAVE A CUSTOM-DESIGNED MURAL PAINTED OR HANG A FULL-SIZED PIECE OF ART ON ONE WALL IN YOUR HOME.

GIVE YOUR EXTERIOR A DEEP CLEAN

CLEANING YOUR WINDOWS IS A GREAT WAY TO INSTANTLY BRIGHTEN YOUR HOME, BOTH INSIDE AND OUT.

ALONG WITH THE WINDOWS, POWER WASHING YOUR SIDING, DECK, PATIO, AND DRIVEWAY WILL ALSO MAKE YOUR HOME LOOK AS IF IT’S BEEN FRESHLY PAINTED AND ADD A SPARKLE YOUR HOME IS CURRENTLY MISSING.

GET ORGANIZED

SPEND A DAY OR TWO DECLUTTERING CABINETS IN YOUR KITCHEN, BATHROOM, AND GARAGE AREAS. BY DOING THIS, YOU WILL PROVIDE YOURSELF WITH SOME EXTRA PEACE OF MIND AND ALSO GIVE YOUR HOME A CLEAN AND SLEEK APPEARANCE.

TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER BY CHANGING OUT YOUR CABINETS OR GIVING THEM A FRESH PAINT JOB. YOU’D BE SURPRISED HOW DIFFERENT YOUR HOME WILL LOOK BY CHANGING OUT CABINETS OR ADDING PEGBOARDS OR SHELVES IN YOUR GARAGE.

FLOORING IS THE FOUNDATION OF A BEAUTIFUL HOME

GIVE ROOMS AN UPGRADE BY INSTALLING NEW FLOORING. THERE ARE MANY HIGH-QUALITY FLOORING OPTIONS THESE DAYS, AND MANY ARE AFFORDABLE TO ALL.

IF NEW FLOORING ISN’T AN OPTION, GIVE YOUR CARPETS OR HARDWOOD A QUICK REFRESH BY HAVING THEM PROFESSIONALLY CLEANED. A DEEP CLEANING CAN DO WONDERS FOR THE APPEARANCE OF OLD FLOORS.

REVAMP YOUR HOME

WHETHER YOU’RE REMODELING A SPACE TO BECOME MORE FUNCTIONAL OR SIMPLY CHANGING THE AESTHETIC, THESE ARE A FEW SIMPLE IDEAS THAT CAN MAKE YOUR HOME FEEL BRAND NEW IN 2022.

YOU MAY NOT THINK IT, BUT THE WINTER MONTHS ARE AN EXCELLENT TIME TO BEGIN HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS. DURING COLDER WEATHER MONTHS, IT MAY BE EASIER TO SECURE POTENTIAL DISCOUNTS FROM PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTORS, AS WELL AS SHORTER COMPLETION TIMETABLES.

HERE ARE FIVE OF THE BEST WINTER HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS AND RENOVATIONS TO TAKE ON:

KITCHEN UPGRADE

THERE ARE SO MANY DIFFERENT WAYS TO SPRUCE UP YOUR KITCHEN, FROM REPLACING THE COUNTERTOPS, SWITCHING OUT CABINETS, CHANGING LIGHT FIXTURES, OR ADDING A TRENDY BACKSPLASH.

ALL OF THESE PROJECTS CAN BE DONE WITH A MINIMAL AMOUNT OF TRIPS BACK AND FORTH OUTSIDE, THEREFORE, MAKING THESE PERFECT COLD-MONTH PROJECTS.

BYPASS SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER BY UPGRADING THE APPEARANCE OF YOUR KITCHEN THIS WINTER.

CHANGE THE WALLS

DON’T WAIT FOR SPRING CLEANING TO PAINT THE WALLS IN YOUR HOME. DURING THE LATE WINTER MONTHS, THE AIR INSIDE YOUR HOME IS DRY AND PROVIDES A QUICKER DRYING ENVIRONMENT FOR INTERIOR PAINTING PROJECTS.

YOU ARE ALSO LIKELY TO FIND GOOD DEALS ON PAINT AT THE LOCAL HARDWARE STORE. THIS WINTER, DROP ABOUT $30 ON A GALLON OF PAINT AND GIVE YOUR HOME A FRESH, NEW LOOK.

REFRESH YOUR HOME’S INSULATION

ONE OF YOUR HOME’S PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES IS PROTECTING YOU FROM THE ELEMENTS, ESPECIALLY THE COLD OF WINTER. ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO ENSURE THE INSIDE OF YOUR HOME STAYS WARM IS TO ADD INSULATION TO YOUR ATTIC, BASEMENT, AND/OR CRAWLSPACE.

ALONG WITH KEEPING YOU WARM WHILE INSIDE YOUR HOME, INSULATION CAN HELP LOWER YOUR ENERGY BILLS. ONE QUICK WAY TO TELL IF YOU NEED NEW INSULATION IS TO CHECK YOUR ATTIC AND SEE IF ANY FLOOR JOISTS ARE SHOWING. IF SO, IT’S TIME TO INVEST IN MORE INSULATION.

REPLACE DRAFTY WINDOWS & SEAL AIR LEAKS

SPEAKING OF LOWERING ENERGY BILLS, REPLACING WINDOWS THAT HAVE COLD DRAFTS BLOWING THROUGH THEM CAN CUT ENERGY LOSS.

ALONG WITH REPLACING THE WINDOWS, SEALING OPENINGS AND AIR LEAKS WITH CAULK, WEATHERSTRIPPING, OR WATERPROOF SEALANT. DOING THIS AROUND WINDOWS, DOORS, AND PIPES WILL ALSO IMPROVE YOUR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND LOWER YOUR UTILITY COSTS AT THE SAME TIME.

REFURBISH OR REPLACE DOORS

THE INTERIOR DOORS OF YOUR HOME HAVE A VISUAL IMPACT ON THE AESTHETICS OF YOUR HOME. IF REPLACING THEM IS ABOVE YOUR BUDGET THIS WINTER, A SIMPLE REFURBISHING PROJECT CAN DO WONDERS.

YOU COULD PAINT YOUR DOORS TO LOOK MORE MODERN, EXCHANGE THE KNOBS WITH MORE DECORATIVE PIECES TO HELP ADD FLAIR, OR ADD MOLDING TO OTHERWISE FLAT DOORS TO CREATE DIMENSION.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM MK CONSTRUCTION

WE WISH YOU AN ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL 2021 HOLIDAY SEASON AND HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL START TO THE NEW YEAR IN 2022!

WE’RE CONTINUING OUR WORK WITH GREENLINE HOMES TO HELP CREATE MORE SUSTAINABLE AND AFFORDABLE HOMES IN CHICAGO COMMUNITIES.

CLIMATE CHANGE AND OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL SHIFTS HAVE CREATED A NEW DESIRE FOR CUSTOM-BUILT HOMES THAT ARE ENERGY-EFFICIENT, EASY TO MAINTAIN, AND SUSTAINABLE.

BUILDING A GREEN HOME

WITH THE HELP OF GREENLINE HOMES, WE’RE UTILIZING GREEN BUILDING TECHNOLOGY AND PROFESSIONAL TECHNIQUES TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE CONSUMER AND BUILD THESE HOMES.

BY USING SOLAR ENERGY, INCREASED LEVELS OF INSULATION, AIR SEALING, AND CAREFULLY SELECTED MECHANICALS AND APPLIANCES, WE’RE BUILDING NET-ZERO-ENERGY HOMES THAT END UP PRODUCING MORE ENERGY THAN THEY CONSUME.

THESE ECO-FRIENDLY HOMES ARE BUILT USING SUSTAINABLE BUILDING MATERIALS WITH AN EMPHASIS ON INDOOR AIR QUALITY AND WATER- AND ENERGY-EFFICIENT APPLIANCES.

FAMILIES WHO RESIDE IN THESE HOMES ARE CHOOSING TO LIVE A HEALTHIER, MORE AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLE.

BENEFITS TO OWNING A GREEN HOME

THERE ARE MANY BENEFITS ASSOCIATED WITH LIVING IN A GREEN HOME. THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF USING RENEWABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY SOURCES HELPS LESSEN THE RELIANCE ON FOSSIL FUELS AND OTHER DEPLETING SOURCES.

THERE ARE ALSO ECONOMIC BENEFITS TO THE HOMEOWNER. BY USING SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS, IT SAVES ON MAINTENANCE AND REPLACEMENT COSTS. THERE ARE TAX REBATES AND INCENTIVES, CHEAPER UTILITY BILLS, AND THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME INCREASES, AS WELL.

AND, MOST IMPORTANTLY, BENEFITS TO YOUR HEALTH. WHEN BUILDING A GREEN HOME, THE BUILDER IS USING NON-TOXIC MATERIALS AND AIR PURIFICATION VENTILATION SYSTEMS THAT CREATE A CLEANER INDOOR ENVIRONMENT.

INSTEAD OF RECYCLING STALE INDOOR AIR, FRESH OUTDOOR AIR IS CONTINUOUSLY BROUGHT INTO THE HOME, PROMOTING A HEALTHIER ENVIRONMENT.

GO GREEN WITH MK CONSTRUCTION

MK CONSTRUCTION AND GREENLINE HOMES ARE WORKING TOGETHER TO HELP FAMILIES LIVE A HEALTHIER LIFE WHILE BUILDING A BETTER CHICAGO ONE HOUSE AT A TIME.

IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN BUILDING A WELL-DESIGNED, ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOME IN THE CITY OR SUBURBS, GIVE US A CALL TODAY TO DISCUSS DETAILS.

GET INTO THE SPIRIT OF THE SPOOKY THIS SEASON BY TURNING HAUNTING YOUR HOUSE WITH HALLOWEEN DECOR. WHETHER YOU WANT TO KEEP IT SOPHISTICATED OR GO DOWNRIGHT CREEPY, HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP MAKE YOUR HOME THE TALK OF THE TOWN.

​ UNDECORATE

BEFORE YOU PUT UP ANY DECORATIONS, TAKE YOUR PICTURE FRAMES OFF THE WALLS AND STORE AWAY ALL DECOR ON TABLES AND SHELVES. DISPLAYING BATS AND WITCHES NEXT TO BEACH PHOTOS OF YOUR KIDS AND COUSINS WON’T EXACTLY SCREAM ‘HALLOWEEN THEME’.

AND, MAKE SURE TO FILL EMPTY SPOTS ON THE WALLS WITH SPOOKY DECORATIONS OR PHOTOS. DOING ALL OF THIS WILL PUT THE ENTIRE FOCUS ON YOUR HOCUS POCUS.

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STICK TO ONE COLOR SCHEME

IF POSSIBLE, TRY AND KEEP ALL YOUR DECORATIONS WITHIN THE SAME COLOR PALETTE. YOU COULD GO WITH A CLASSIC ORANGE AND BLACK THEME, A CREEPY BLACK AND GREEN, OR PERHAPS A SOPHISTICATED SILVER AND BLACK.

IF YOU DO CHOOSE TO MIX COLORS TOGETHER, TRY AND KEEP IT TO A MAXIMUM OF THREE COLORS, AND NOT USING ONES THAT STAND OUT TOO MUCH FROM THE OTHERS.

FRONT PORCH DECOR

CREATE A WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS BY TURNING THE FRONT OF YOUR HOME INTO A HALLOWEENTOWN OF ITS OWN. FROM SCARY WELCOME MATS TO HANGING BATS, PLUMP GOURDS TO OUIJA BOARDS, THE OPTIONS ARE ENDLESS.

TAKE THINGS TO A HAIR-RAISING LEVEL BY DECORATING YOUR ENTRYWAY, AS WELL. LURE GUESTS INTO YOUR HOME WITH A SPOOKY ENTRANCE THAT DARES THEM TO STEP INSIDE.

​ HAPPY HALLOWEEN FROM MK CONSTRUCTION

WE WANT EVERYONE TO HAVE A WONDERFUL TIME THIS HALLOWEEN SEASON, SO BE SAFE, BE KIND, AND HAND OUT FULL-SIZED CANDY BARS!