Granite vs. Quartz Countertops: A Comparison
According to industry experts, countertops, whether in the kitchen or bathroom, can take up at least 10% of your overall renovation budget. Homeowners know that these surfaces are going to be used daily, so they want to feel confident in their selection. Not only do countertops need to function for years to come, they also need to look great. And if the kitchen is the first thing people notice in homes, then a countertop is the focus of that kitchen. The design you choose for your countertop can really drive the...
Tile Pattern Inspiration for 2022
Using patterned tile is a surefire way to add the zhush to your home’s interior. Mixing up sizes, shapes, and even the direction of tiles can transform even a small space. Floors, showers, and backsplashes are ideal locations for a tile update. Our J&J design team uses all sorts of tile in our customer’s projects. Although we mention the details in our Project Spotlights, we wanted to share some of the latest pattern inspo to help activate your imagination! Pop in Some Color Although the trend towards light, bright, and neutrally colored rooms...
Aging in Place with Comfort and Style
A growing trend in Chicagoland is “Aging in Place” home renovations. Sometimes, they’re a project to accommodate a parent or relative who still has independence, but would rather live with their family. For others, adding accessible design features to an existing home allows them to remain there as they grow older. The concept of “accessible design” can be broad when you’re designing a room addition, addressing bathroom or kitchen remodeling, and adding updates to your current home. Every situation is different, of course - and it can be difficult to navigate...
Why Basement Bathrooms Are So Popular
Basement bathrooms are becoming a popular remodeling project - it’s likely that you know someone who decided to add or remodel a lower-level bath this year. Whether a smaller powder room, or a fully-featured guest bath, these additions bring many advantages to Chicagoland homes. Don’t feel limited by lower ceilings required by building codes, plumbing considerations, or lack of windows! A professional contractor (like J&J) knows all the ins and outs of working with finished basement spaces, and will be full of great ideas on how to maximize light, find more...
Renovate or Move?
It’s a seller’s market out there in Chicagoland - have you noticed? The latest numbers are pretty scary if you’re looking for a new house. As of April median home prices had risen 20 percent compared with a year ago, and the average home spent just 20 days on the market before selling, according to Redfin, the real estate site. So, what’s a homeowner to do in our area? Wait and see? Stress out over bidding battles? Or - making some changes in your current home could be the best option....
Decorating Your Deck and Patio
Decorating your deck or patio makes summers more enjoyable and outdoor entertaining easier! Just as with interior spaces, your outdoor rooms can help express your personality, encourage creativity, and promote relaxation. If you’ve just added a new addition to your home, check out these tips for easy style. Don’t leave seating for last! Before you get lost in the color and fabric choices - take a moment to think about practicality. As you would for any spot where people gather, select for comfort and ergonomics. Wait - ergonomics? Yep - the...
Top Remodeling Trends for 2021
The way that we use our homes changed in 2020. Daily activities now can include work, virtual classes, working out, and more. Rooms serve multiple uses, there’s extra people sharing spaces all day long, and families have had time to really think about what we want from our spaces. As a result, it’s beginning to influence design and remodeling trends. Let’s take a look at some of the changes you’ll be seeing in 2021 and beyond! The new normal for many of us will continue to include working from home. Prior...
Maintenance-Free Decks
This is a great year to add - or update a deck on your home. The upside of the lifestyle changes that have us staying at home more? More time to enjoy your backyard, and the possibility of taking your remote work or school date outside. Here at J&J Construction, decks are one of our most popular projects, and we’re big fans of the new maintenance-free deck materials. If you haven’t been shopping for deck materials in the last few years, you’re in for a surprise. Composite decking products just continue...