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...
Ten Inspiring Navy Kitchen Ideas
Adding navy blue to your kitchen space can provide an instant boost. This chic color is both uplifting and classic - perfect for mixing and matching with neutrals and accessories. It’s the best remodeling trend out there for making a room stand out. Adding fresh color is always a part of kitchen remodeling. Now, with an abundance of blue cabinet shades available, it’s easy to drench your cooking space with this beloved color’s happy and sophisticated vibe. We’ve pulled together some of our favorite navy kitchen cabinet looks to inspire your next...
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....
The Latest Trends For Organized Kitchens
One of the big benefits of remodeling your kitchen: Getting organized! Seriously - when is the last time you heard someone complain about having too much storage? A space that’s customized to your needs can turn your least favorite chores into simple routines, and bring a lot more serenity into your life. Let’s look at the most brilliant ideas for regaining counter space, reducing prep time, and turning your kitchen into an organized wonderland. These are the little tricks and clever designs that you’ll want to show off to your friends...
Celebrate Sunny Days With Succulents
We see you, Chicagoland! You’re getting your sunrooms ready for warm weather, you’re spending more time working on your screened porches, and you’re making great use of those new kitchen windows and work areas that we’ve added to your homes. The wonderful thing about new spaces like a J&J sunroom or room addition is all the new windows - and windowsills. But - they can look a little empty, now that everything is getting so lush outside. We can design the perfect room for your home, but plants aren’t included -...