What’s in Your Barbie Dreamhouse — And Could It Be Reality?

by BathroomsInterior RenovationKitchensLifestyle TipsNews

Barbie’s Dreamhouse may be a  bit  over the top. Or is it?

Thanks to new materials, reduced pricing, and designers’ creativity, our clients are already living in the dream house — although perhaps a little less pink. From slides for stairs to outdoor kitchens and in-home elevators, the Dreamhouse’s fabulous features are becoming a reality for more and more people. We sat down with Custom Craft’s newest designer, Grace Arndt, to get her take on the dreamiest items Bucks and Montgomery County homeowners are asking for in their newly designed homes.

Basement Remodels: Entertainment Central

If Barbie had a basement, it would surely be all about entertainment. It’s no different for our clients. For many homeowners, dream basements include full bars, big-screen TVs, and theater rooms with specialty lighting and luxurious seating. These homeowners in Schwenksville have the ultimate entertainment setup behind their bar, with open shelving, LED lighting, and even an embedded sound system perfect for choreographed dance parties. If Skipper ever gets tired of staying in her treehouse, we’re sure Barbie would also include a bedroom for guests to stay overnight, with a convenient full bathroom nearby.

Kitchen Remodels: Culinary Creativity

Chef Barbie would definitely dream of specialty features many Custom Craft clients already have in their space. Topping Grace’s list are functional items that are discreetly hidden yet easily accessible, like hidden pantries, built-in microwaves, and downdraft range hoods that come up from the countertop when needed. Oversized sinks with double faucets or even a second sink for a drink station may once have been luxurious but are now more popular. Of course, Barbie would settle for nothing less than top-of-the-line appliances like a smart refrigerator with a built-in TV or a large, professional-grade range and cooktop.

Bathroom Remodels: Luxe Retreats

What would Barbie have in her Dreamhouse bathroom? Grace is guessing a spacious zero-threshold shower, a deep free-standing tub, or maybe both. She’d also need a vanity table with great lighting to put on her makeup, heated floors, and a smart shower system so she could control the water temperature right on her phone. All of these features are common asks for Custom Craft projects.

Bedroom Remodels: Where Dreams Begin

While Barbie’s magical wardrobe may never become a reality, a well-designed walk-in closet with custom shelving (including plenty of shoe cubbies, of course!) comes close. Today’s homeowners enjoy large beds, lots of windows and natural lighting, and unique touches like exposed beams or pitched ceilings in their bedrooms. To make things extra dreamy, Grace suggests including an attached space such as an office or even a sitting area with a coffee bar to ease into your day.

Bonus Spaces

The bonus spaces in Barbie’s Dreamhouse, like the pool or party room, are what make it so special and are some of the most memorable spaces for our clients as well. Grace has loved designing:

  • Video game rooms with specialty seating, large TVs, and beverage refrigerators
  • Amazing offices with floor-to-ceiling shelving
  • Home libraries with rolling ladders
  • Laundry rooms with dog washing stations and gorgeous farmhouse sinks

And, although no one has requested a giant pink slide from the second floor to the pool (yet!), Custom Craft has built some fantastic outdoor areas like this covered deck that Barbie would be sure to approve of.

Every day, homeowners are discovering that dreamhouses aren’t just for Barbie — and that features they thought were out of reach are surprisingly obtainable. So don’t put your dreams off any longer. Contact us, and see how we can help!

Bathroom Tile Trends for 2023

by BathroomsNewsRemodeling Tips

Planning to remodel your bathroom soon? Whether you’re updating your hall bath or transforming your primary suite, you’ll want to make sure you’re up to date with the latest tips and trends on all things tile. To fill you in, we interviewed our go-to tile expert and owner of Kulp Tile, Peter Kulp. Here’s what he’s noticed in his projects throughout Montgomery and Bucks County:

Glass towel bar

Tile Shape & Size: Bigger is Better

Tile has been getting bigger over the years, and this trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down. In fact, while most residential projects still use 12” X 24” tile, Peter has gotten orders for tiles as large as 4’ X 8’ or even 10’ X 5’. Homeowners enjoy larger format tiles for their clean, contemporary looks, fewer grout lines, and sustainability.

These large format tiles aren’t just for the walls but are trending on shower floors as well. Many homeowners are forgoing drains in the middle of the floor for linear drains, which act like troughs on the side of the shower. With this system, the floor no longer needs a concave shape to drain the water, which opens opportunities to use larger tiles.

As far as shape, rectangular tile is much more common than square, and almost all of Peter’s clients request a staggered, brick pattern layout.

Tile Color & Texture: Smooth Moves

According to Peter, white and gray tiles continue to trend in 2023. White tile looks clean and elegant — ideal qualities in any bathroom. Furthermore, white and gray are timeless colors that will never go out of style, meaning homeowners can enjoy the look of their new space for years to come.

Stepping away from the late-90s-early-2000s love of raw texture, today’s homeowners opt for clean lines and smooth surfaces. The look of polished marble is far more desirable in today’s bathrooms than porous materials like the limestone that was once a very popular choice.

When asked about the biggest tile trend in the last decade, Peter says small grout lines are what stick out in his mind the most. As tiles get bigger, grout joints are getting smaller. With these smaller lines, homeowners enjoy faster, easier cleaning and a more even, modern look.

Looking for a different design? We love going the opposite direction with bold, glam grout.

Glass Tile Accent Shower

Niches & Accent Tile: Practical, Stylish Solutions

Niches and accent tiles are key to achieving a one-of-a-kind style in the bathroom. Eye-level, decorative border lines in the shower were once a popular trend, but are becoming less common with the move toward larger format tiles. The small glass tiles typically used in these borders can be difficult to match up with the large, thick wall tiles.

Instead of the horizontal stripe, many Custom Craft clients have requested a vertical tile accent panel behind the fixtures that provides a visual statement as well as a convenient way of accessing the plumbing behind the wall. Shower floors and backsplashes behind the vanity are two other popular spots to get creative with accent tile.

Shower niches are also incredibly popular since they not only offer a focal point but also provide a cosmetically pleasing way of storing soap, shampoo, and more. No longer an eye sore with bulky, bullnose curbs, they are now designed to blend seamlessly into the wall and can be a natural spot to place a decorative mosaic.

Whether you stick with current trends or find your own style, your tile options are only limited to your imagination. Need help deciding what’s best for your space? We’re here for you. Contact us to learn more.

Powered vanity drawer

Top 10 Storage Solutions for 2023

by BathroomsKitchensLifestyle TipsMudrooms

Was home organization on your list of New Year’s resolutions? Keeping your home clutter-free reduces stress, simplifies your daily routine, and makes it easy to stay tidy and ready for guests. The best way to organize your home is to set yourself up for success with the latest storage innovations. Here are ten simple but effective solutions for your Montgomery County home.

Kitchen Storage

 Of all the rooms in your home, your kitchen might have the most items to store — from cooking and cleaning supplies to bowls and bakeware. Fortunately, there are ways to make it easy to keep your heart of the home organized. Here are a few examples:

spice holder

Spice Holder

Straighten your spices without taking up room in your cabinets with a mounted spice holder! A rack like this is easy to install, looks great, and is fully adjustable to fit any cabinet setup.

Ultimate Pantry
Ultimate Pantry

Ultimate Pantry

Many items get stored in the pantry, so making the most of your space is important. A swing-out pantry allows smaller items, such as spices, cans, and dry goods, to be stored in front, while bulkier items like appliances, mixing bowls, and roasting pans can be kept in the back. Best of all, whatever you need will be easy to access with no shifting around required.

Under sink

Under-sink Pull-out

When cleaning your kitchen, the last thing you need is to be rummaging through the darkness under the sink for your supplies. With an under-sink cabinet pull-out, all your cleaning essentials will be within reach.

Knife Drawer

In-drawer Knife Divider

Many of us are used to keeping our kitchen knives in a butcher block on the countertop, but that’s not ideal when work space is limited. An in-drawer knife divider may be the perfect solution. With this feature, countertops stay clear, and knives stay organized, secure, and easily accessible.

Bathroom Storage

Bathrooms are usually the smallest room in the house but they house many of our everyday essentials, leading to cluttered countertops and chaotic closets. Here are a few ideas to bring order back to your bathroom:

Hidden step stool

Hidden Stepstool

Stepstools are a must-have in any home with young children, but they use a large portion of floor space. A great alternative is a hidden step stool that can be pulled out when needed and easily tucked away under the sink when not.  

Powered vanity drawer

Powered Vanity Drawer

Not only does this drawer keep hairdryers and flat irons neat, organized, and out of the way, it also has a built-in power strip — making it incredibly easy to get ready and get on with your day.

Bedroom & Laundry Room Storage

Guests may not frequent your bedroom and laundry room, but keeping these rooms clean and organized will ensure your day runs smoothly and help you get out the door on time. Consider options like:

pull-out hamper

Pull-out Hamper

Tired of airing your dirty laundry? Clothes hampers are always necessary but seldom pleasant to look at. Pull-out hamper drawers are a perfect solution to keep your laundry tucked away but still easy to grab and toss in the wash.

Pull-out Necklace Holder & Tray Dividers

It happens to the best of us — you’re getting ready to head out for the evening and have the perfect necklace in mind. But when you take it out of your jewelry box, you find a tangled ball that will take forever to straighten out. With a pull-out necklace holder, each piece has a spot, keeping them tangle-free and easy to find.

Turn any drawer into a spacious jewelry box with a tray divider. You’ll have all your options in plain view and keep your valuable accessories safe and organized.

Set yourself up for success with home storage solutions. Need more ideas? We can help. Contact us ­to find out how to keep your home tidy this year and many more to come.

Shower Niche

9 Must-Have Features for your Spa-Like Shower

by Bathrooms

In our last blog, local real estate expert Geoff Slick answered our pressing remodeling questions, including whether bathtubs in the primary bathroom are necessary.

We learned that many folks are opting for a tub-free bath, and if you don’t use yours, you can feel free to leave it out of your next bathroom remodel. The best part? A bathtub-free space allows more room for something you’ll enjoy every day — a spa-like, luxury shower with all the indulgent bells and whistles. Here are nine sensational shower trends Custom Craft has included in recent Bucks and Montgomery County bathroom remodels:

Glass Shower
  1. Go With Glass

First things first; for that home-spa feel, ditch the curtain and go with a glass door. Glass shower doors are clean, elegant, and make bathrooms feel more spacious. When deciding on your perfect door, you’ll choose between:

    • Framed: Traditional doors with metal frames around all exterior edges. Framed doors are often the easiest and least expensive way to go glass.
    • Semi-frameless: Minimal metal framing. This look blends a modern look with practical functionality.
    • Frameless: Tempered glass with no metal around the exterior edges. These tend to be the pricier option,  but they provide a clean, modern look you’ll enjoy every day.
Pebble Shower Floor

2. Customize with Tile

The tile in your shower is your chance to let your style shine. With so many shapes, patterns, and layout options, you’re only limited to your imagination. These homeowners chose a glass mosaic accent paired with large format wall tiles, and a pebble floor.  

Tiled Shower

3.  Find Your Niche

Shower niches provide ultimate functionality and storage without compromising looks. Niches keep all your necessities, from shampoo and conditioner to body wash and razors, within reach without an additional shelf or rack. They can be small and subtle or span the entire length of the wall, as shown above.

 

4. Two Heads are Better Than One

Nothing will influence your shower experience quite as much as your choice of shower heads. Looks are important, but also consider functionality. Is spa-like luxury at the top of your list? A rainfall shower head is a great choice for lavish relaxation. Like to keep your water pressure options open? An adjustable, fixed shower head or handheld may be the best option. Can’t decide between convenience and indulgence? Why not have both? Many homeowners choose multiple shower heads that make all their shower wishes come true.

5. Bench Benefits

Shower benches have long been key safety features for those considering universal design and aging in place. In today’s showers, they’re also beautiful, built-in accessories included in many bathroom remodels. Besides their safety benefits, homeowners love to use them for additional storage, an easy way to cleanse and depilate, or simply a soothing place to relax after a tough workout or long day at the office.

Glass Shower

6.  Lighten Up

Warm, welcoming natural light is proven to improve your mood, ease stress, and even lower blood pressure. With a strategically placed privacy window, you can bring all those benefits into the shower. The creative lighting ideas don’t stop there — lights in showerheads, LED strip lighting, and even pendant lights can be included in or around your shower.

Large Shower and Soaking Tub

7. Go Big

If you’ve decided to forego a bathtub or swapped out your huge ‘90s platform tub for a smaller one, you may have room to supersize your shower. Large, spacious showers are a unique, extravagant feature that many homeowners opt for if they have the space. In fact, some are making their showers so big they become their own room, with no need for a shower door to contain water.

Curbless Shower

8. Sleek & Safe

Curbless showers not only look sleek and modern, they’re also a no-trip, wheelchair-friendly safety precaution. In this recent Custom Craft remodel, the curbless shower provides an elegant touch to the newly updated space and allows the other features, such as the beautiful hexagonal tile floor, to shine through.

U by Moen

9. Shower Smarter

No more stepping into an uncomfortably cold (or hot) shower! Take the guesswork out of your water temperature with a smart shower. This technology lets you set your ideal temperature, conserve water with a timer, or pause when you need to quickly grab a new bar of soap. Using voice controls, an app on your phone, or the device itself, your shower experience will be completely personalized. 

You use your shower daily — why not make it amazing? Experience the enjoyment of a spa right at home with a luxury shower.

Ready to take your bathroom from ordinary to oasis? Contact us to get started!

Home Remodeling Guide

Part 1 of Your 2021 Home Remodeling Guide: 5 Bathroom Trends for the New Year

by Bathrooms
Home Remodeling Guide

With a new year comes a fresh perspective. One of our favorite things to do when the new year rolls around is to examine all of the design elements that are becoming trends for that particular year. As part of our home remodeling guide series, we’ll be reviewing some of the ways to upgrade your home in 2021.

We’re first going to take a look at bathroom trends for this year. 2020 was a difficult year for most of us, so we could all use little rest and relaxation infused into our daily lives – something that can be achieved with upgrades to your bathroom!

Trend #1: Space-Savvy Soaking TubsSoaking Tub
In 2021, it’s all about clean lines and optimizing space, so instead of the large, built-in jacuzzi tubs, we’re seeing beautiful, smaller soaking tubs that may even serve as the focal point of the bathroom. Why not take something functional and make it a design piece?!

Not only do these smaller soaking tubs take up less room, they also use much less water, making them more efficient. And while tubs are getting smaller, showers are getting larger. Big, walk-in showers have been a trend for a while now, and we anticipate that will remain a trend in 2021.

Sink detailTrend #2: Quartz Countertops
While quartz has long been used for kitchen counters, it’s become a popular material for bathrooms. Quartz bathroom countertops have been trending for a while, but there’s become an even greater demand in our “new normal.” Because they are non-porous, they are much easier to clean and more stain-resistant than natural stone, which is perfect for increased use of the bathroom with family members home more frequently these days. Quartz is also stronger and more durable than stone slab countertops, and it comes in a variety of colors and styles, making it a versatile choice.

Trend #3: Wood Look Tile
The shift to more organic designs lends nicely to this trend, by giving the durability and resistance of moisture with porcelain or ceramic, but the look of natural wood. Not only can these be used for the floor, they can also be used in showers or on walls to become the focal point of the space or to make certain areas standout. Wood look tile is also a great option because it comes in a variety of colors, textures, and sizes.

Lighted MirrorTrend #4: Back-Lit Mirrors & Medicine Cabinets
Back-lit mirrors give light to the space, without the glare from a normal light fixture, and create uniform distribution of lighting. They also eliminate the need for other types of task lighting or sconces, keeping the design clean and simple. Smart mirrors that can adjust to a specific setting, e.g. date night prep or getting ready for work, are also available.

Trend #5: Smart Toilets
In our ‘new normal,’ cleanliness is everything. New smart toilet designs offer touch-free flushing and self-closing and self-opening lids, so your hands can stay germ-free! Some even offer a bacteria-killing light that does the cleaning for you.

There are a lot of ways to upgrade and refresh your bathroom; these are just some of the trends for 2021 that we’re excited about and would love to help you with. We hope our bathroom home remodeling guide inspires you to create a relaxing, indulgent space that you can enjoy for years to come!

If you’re ready for a bathroom remodel, have another project in mind, or just have general questions, we’d love to hear from you! 

Large Shower and Soaking Tub

Overwhelmed by 2020? Create an At-Home Spa with these Bathroom Remodel Ideas

by Bathrooms

2020 has been a challenging year. According to the American Psychological Association, 2 in 3 adults say they have experienced increased stress over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Self-care has never been more important, but it can be hard to find the time, and options to leave your home for stress-reducing activities — like a spa day — are limited, due to safety precautions.

With that said, why not create a spa experience right inside your home? Now is the perfect time for that spa-like bathroom remodel you’ve been wanting!

Not only can you unwind by taking a relaxing shower or bath, but by making the space more inviting and comfortable, you can bring ease to everyday tasks, like getting ready in the morning. Below are a few ways that you can turn your bathroom into a tranquil retreat.

Large Shower and Soaking Tub

Build a Separate Tub and Shower

If you have the space, install a separate bathtub and shower as part of your bathroom remodel. This is the ultimate indulgence when it comes to pampering yourself and self-care! Doing so allows you to pick more unique shower and bathtub options, like a soaking tub or steam shower, for example. It also provides the opportunity to bring in some additional aesthetics. A beautiful freestanding tub can be a focal point of a bathroom, as can a shower with ornate tilework. 

Additionally, if you enjoy taking a bath and your partner enjoys a shower, you can both get ready at the same time. A few things to keep in mind:

  • By keeping your shower and bathtub close to each other, the cost to install water supply lines and waste systems will be lower, if they’re on the same wall.
  • Check that both your hot water heater and your water pressure can handle a big bathtub’s demands.
  • Freestanding tubs come in all different shapes and sizes, even if your bathroom footprint isn’t huge, a separate tub still might fit. 
  • There are a lot of different fixtures and amenities to add, like a rain showerhead, dual showerheads, and jets. 

Introduce Neutral Paint and Simple Decor

When it comes to your spa-like bathroom remodel, it’s important to evoke a feeling of relaxation. You can easily do this through paint and decor selections.

  • Choose paint colors that are neutral and calm – not bold or bright.
  • Mix textures to introduce some variety (e.g. floors, backsplashes, shower tile, etc.). Just remember to keep them all within the same color scheme.
  • Add fresh or faux flowers and candles. This will add sophistication to the space.
  • Create storage solutions to stay organized and tidy. Give a home to towels, washcloths, etc. 
  • Install lighting on multiple switches or dimmers, so you can adjust the light levels depending on what you need and your mood.

Bring Ultimate Luxury with Heated Floors
No one likes cold tile, especially in the winter! Instead, step out of the shower or tub onto a warm floor.

Ceramic and stone tiles are ideal for bathrooms, and also ideal for heated floor coverings. And, while heated floors can be expensive, they are affordable in smaller areas, such as bathrooms! Discuss with your contractor the best heating source/option for your bathroom – there are electric and water-based systems.

Are you interested in learning more about our bathroom remodels and how we can uniquely transform your space into a spa-like oasis? Or perhaps you have another project in mind that you’d like to discuss? We’d love to hear from you!

Soaking Tub
bathroom remodel

To tub, or not to tub. That is the bathroom remodel question.

by Bathrooms

Is a bathtub the right option for your bathroom remodel?

bathroom remodel

When remodeling a hall or master bathroom, some homeowners have elected to remove bathtubs in favor of enclosed shower stalls. A variety of factors from lifestyle preference, to resale value, to safety concerns have contributed to this trend. But a growing number of homeowners are adopting a hybrid approach that allows them to keep their bathtubs, while also incorporating a low or zero threshold shower. The bathroom featured here is a good example of this hybrid approach.

While there is no right or wrong answer, whether or not to maintain a bathtub in the space is an important question to consider when planning a bathroom renovation. If your family members enjoy a regular, or even an occasional soak in the bathtub, then the answer is most likely “Yes”.

At Custom Craft, when we meet with clients to plan a bathroom remodel, we ask numerous lifestyle questions like this to learn how you currently use your existing space, any frustrations you are experiencing, as well as your goals for the new space. By taking the time to fully understand your needs, we can better deliver a renovated space that will provide long-term satisfaction.

As always, if you have any questions on a planned bathroom or other home renovation project, feel free to reach out to us at 610-584-0665.

Rainshower-Bath2

Considerations for your bathroom remodel

by Bathrooms

Rainshower-Bath2When discussing bathroom design with our clients, storage needs are inevitably brought into the conversation. Most clients have concerns about the lack of storage space in their current bathrooms which leads to messy, cluttered counters among other challenges. Not surprisingly, in nearly every bathroom we design, additional storage space is a major design objective. Here are a few storage options to consider for your next bathroom:

  • Cabinetry above vanity
  • Custom drawers and cabinets with electric receptacles
  • Tall storage units
  • Open storage spaces

Features for the Shower

An often overlooked, but critical area for storage is around the shower and tub. Corner shelves are commonly used, but a better option is a storage niche if budget allows. A niche is more costly since it involves additional labor and materials. With that said, the cost is offset by the ample benefits they offer including more convenient access to bottles of cleansers, space efficiency, and aesthetics. From a designer’s perspective, a niche also allows for more creativity within the tile design.

Benches for larger shower areas, or foot ledges in smaller showers, are also on the must have list. A few other must haves are grab bars for current needs or planning for the future. Fortunately, the grab bar style, size and finish options are not as limited as they were at one time. It is very likely that you can find a style that compliments the plumbing fixtures that will be used.

For plumbing fixtures, more than one shower head is often desired. If more than one person uses the shower, preferences may differ. One family member may want a rain shower mounted to the ceiling or wall to provide a spa-like experience, while another may prefer a hand shower on a slide-bar which gives more flexibility. The latter also comes in handy for cleaning the shower.

As for shower doors, there are numerous options. Depending on budget, there are standard sizes with finish options or there are custom sizes using framed or frameless doors and panels.

Another consideration is a curbless shower. The advantage of this style is that it reduces the risk of tripping and falling while entering or exiting the shower. Regardless of age, many homeowners are selecting this style of shower because of its clean, streamlined look.

More Bathroom Ideas

For more bathroom design ideas, please view our Houzz Bathroom Shower Organization Ideabook. This should inspire you for your upcoming project. As always, if you have any questions about your bathroom remodel, please do not hesitate to contact us at (610) 584-0665, or via email at: info@customcraftcontractors.com.

Custom Craft Contractors Honored with Local and Regional Awards

by Awards & AccoladesBathrooms

Lansdale, PA—Custom Craft Contractors was recently honored with both local and regional Contractor of the Year (CotY) Awards for a bathroom renovation in the Under $30,000 category.  The local awards were presented by the Bucks-Mont Chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) at a ceremony held at the Joseph Ambler Inn in Montgomery Township, PA on Friday, January 27, 2012.

CotY Award winners were selected in a blind judging process by an impartial panel of industry experts. Judging focused on problem solving, functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, degree of difficulty and entry presentation. As a regional winner for this project, Custom Craft is in the running for the National Contractor of the Year Award. The National CotY award winners will be announced in April at the NARI Evening of Excellence.

The CotY Award winning bathroom was a collaborative effort between Custom Craft Contractors and Interior Decorator, Pat Nunan, owner of Lifestyles Design. For this project, the two companies teamed to create a barrier free, wheelchair-accessible bathroom for a homeowner diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease.” By designing and building a beautiful, yet accessible bathroom, they enabled this husband and father of two young sons to live independently and comfortably in his own home for as long as possible.

In addition to the Contractor of the Year Awards, Custom Craft received a Meritorious Award for a kitchen renovation in the $80,000 to $120,000 category. Michael Foering, Vice President of Custom Craft Contractors was also recognized as Committee Chairman of the Year for his role as the Chairman of the Education Committee for the Bucks-Mont NARI chapter.
NARI Chapters are not-for-profit trade associations committed exclusively to the service of the professional remodeling industry. The NARI remodeling contractor is pledged to uphold the Association’s Code of Ethics and is dedicated to the professionalism and integrity of the remodeling industry.

For more information on Custom Craft Contractors, visit www.customcraftcontractors.com or contact Mike Foering at (610) 584-0665.