The Kitchen is the Heart of the Home

This past winter we gave our kitchen a makeover with new granite countertops and overhang for barstools.   The existing cabinets are in good shape so we saved some money by avoiding a complete kitchen reno, however we have a ton of counter space and apparently expensive taste in granite (or most things these days!) so it didn't come cheap.  I love the outcome, it seems to open up the kitchen and give it a clean, modern look.  I can't forget to mention our new sink and faucet which has a touch sensor for turning off and on (this was hubby's pick - he always has to have the latest and greatest when it comes to technology.  Did I mention our expensive taste?).  A friend of ours installed the new sink and garbage disposal.  Nick and I added the new tile backsplash around the kitchen and painted a small area of what was left of kitchen wall.  One of my favorite parts of the design was the ever so clever granite window sills.  Brilliant!  Especially behind the sink where I'm prone to splash water while washing dishes.  We owe the credit to the contractor for that nice touch.  

Sprucing up our Curb Appeal

Our entry project (last summer) included a new door, awning, handrails, and light fixture.  Motivation: The existing door was sticking and difficult to shut and the aluminum awning just had to go!  We originally wanted sidelights at the door but this involved additional structural work that we decided to forgo.  Instead, we chose a Therma-tru fiberglass door with oval glass panel to bring in some light.  We went with vinyl posts and handrails which is a bit more expensive than wood but is said to last longer.  Also, I'm not a huge fan of wrought iron railings which I believe are more expensive and not as easy to maintain anyways.  As shown in the before and after pictures, the entry has definitely improved our curb appeal.  (In the After photo, the light fixture under the awning has not yet been installed.)  

Contractor: Almar Building & Remodeling

Before

After (w/o light fixture)