STRANGE & INTERESTING TALES from a Custom Home Builder

As a custom home builder, we’ve encountered all kinds of strange and interesting tales. Thought I would do a short, lighthearted, post about some of these.

One of the more memorable and strange requests was from, I’ll call him “The Bachelor”. He was doing a whole house remodel and wanted his and her toilets….side by side. I couldn’t ask about why because I didn’t want to know. Oh boy, women want the man to use an entirely different bathroom, much less sitting on the john next to him! We didn’t end up doing the job but I often wonder if he found “The One who would sit by his side, come what may”!

Women don’t want this kind of sharing!

Then there were the people who wanted us to remodel their home and at our first meeting, they produced a sketch of the layout they had drawn up. Wait…why is there a bathroom that opens up into the kitchen? The woman thought it would be really convenient. I will always laugh replaying in my mind Kevin trying to explain to them why it wasn’t a good idea!

Kevin recently visited a home that the people had purchased for the land, not the home.  They were wondering if we could help them fix the home. Some of the problems would have been hilarious if someone didn’t have to figure out how to fix and pay for them. Here are just a few of the problems:

  • The showers controls were totally outside of the shower, requiring one to exit the shower to change temp or pressure.
  • The hood over the stove was so high that the exhaust system was useless.
  • An old remodel had expanded the kitchen but they placed the refrigerator around the corner and from the cooking triangle one had to go around this large island to get to the refrigerator.
  • Then there was the wet bar where someone had either not wanted to waste a pre-cut countertop or someone did a lousy job of measuring and the top hung over the sink on one side by about 2 inches.

Several years ago we encountered the strangest floor plan I’ve ever seen. The people had bought it site unseen before moving here from Ohio. First of all, there was so much wasted space. The rooms were small but the halls were huge- like 6 feet wide and when you walked through the front door, you stepped right into the dining room. There was no pantry in what was a huge kitchen but rather it was a converted bedroom that was located down a long hallway. Words cannot express my dismay!

Then there was our client who didn’t want to have to leave the Master suite to get to his liquor- well it would have been a long walk- I’ll give him that. So, we built a wet bar in the bedroom. Along the same line, we built an indoor putting green adjacent to the master so that our client, an insomniac, could practice his game instead of roaming the halls at night. Hey, this is exactly why people build custom homes!

And, of course, we’ve built many cool safe rooms but I can’t disclose any details. Let’s just say that the options out there now for these are mind blowing.

Or our custom home client who had a little kid’s mini kitchen just off the main kitchen. Mini fridge, microwave, sink and cabinets were stocked with all of their favorite snacks. I actually really like this- it’s keeps their little fingerprints off the one in the main kitchen 🙂

Then there was the time we built the rectory for the Catholic church in Ahwatukee and Kevin opened up a cabinet door and a huge gila monster emerged! I’m sure the priest forgave his language, given the situation.

Back when we were first getting started, we built a custom home for an engineer who counted every 2 x 4, 2 x 6 and piece of wood in the entire house making sure he wasn’t getting ripped off. Nothing against engineers, as they happen to be some of our best clients, as they appreciate the quality and efficiency of our homes.

Some of our favorite clients were Italians who immigrated to Canada and we built their second home here in Arizona. She was Sicilian and about 4′ 10″. I think I told in a past blog how she rolled out her homemade pasta every day but couldn’t comfortably do this with a normal counter height. So, we built the island at a very low height and made some other adjustments to make living more convenient for her.

Lastly, I’ll leave you with this. We did a full remodel on a townhome and Kevin went to pick up the final check. He left and was at the end of the block when his phone rang. It was the woman. She asked him if he could come back. When she opened the door, she grabbed him and hugged him in a full-on frontal position and kissed him before he knew what was happening! I guess she was super happy with us- or with him rather. A simple thank you is just fine!

Hope you’ve enjoyed these Strange and Interesting Tales!

AGING IN PLACE: STRATEGIES (Part 2)

Continuing our conversation about Aging in Place strategies….

KITCHEN CABINETS

Cabinets can be particularly frustrating when aging in place is a priority.  Replace lower cabinet doors with large, deep drawers.   This helps a person easily get what they need without reaching in and trying to pull things out from the back of the shelf.

Rev-a-shelf

Rev a shelf  makes some really innovative solutions; such as, pull down shelves that can be installed in the uppers.  This also keeps them off a step stool, which can be dangerous.  We built a custom home for an Italian couple where the woman was 4′ 10″ and she rolled out homemade pasta every day.  They wanted the kitchen island very low to make this easy for her.  She also had had hip replacements, so we did all the cabinets with roll out drawers and pull down shelves so she didn’t have to bend down.  The small appliances that she used everyday (espresso machine, pasta maker, Kitchenaid mixer)  had places on the counter with outlets in the right spots so she could leave them out.  When they went to sell, people didn’t like the low island but they lived in the house for over 20 years and the entire family benefited from that low island, so who cares, right?   A custom home is all about creating an environment that enhances and facilities your lifestyle, so it was worth it to them to make the kitchen function specifically for her needs. The cost to put in a new island was small compared to the use they got out of it. 

BATHROOM CABINETS

Make sure there is knee space in the cabinet area where a person can sit down to get ready.  Also, if a person is much shorter or taller than the average, their vanity can be made to a specific height to minimize stooping or counters that are too high.

APPLIANCES

Appliances can pose a danger to the elderly if they are not well thought out.  The controls need to be easy to read and the appliances should be located where one can see, open and put things in and out safely.

Induction cooking can be a great choice for aging in place:  So, gas cooking has been all the rage with the professional chefs and foodies who love to cook but there’s a new game in town (actually not new but recently embraced) and it is very safe for young and old!  Induction is the cooking method of choice for many high profile chefs these days.  What makes it so safe is that it heats the cooking vessel by magnetic induction but the cook top does not get hot.  So, when the pan or skillet is removed from the top, there is no heat and that makes it a safe option.  Also, gas can sometimes be left on when people start getting forgetful but with induction, once the pan is removed, there is no conduction of heat.  Frigidaire explains induction cooking.

Also, many appliances can now be connected to an app on ones phone, voice activated, controlled from a distance, etc., etc.   While it may not be easy for all people to learn a new way of operating appliances, it can be a great thing for family members to be able to check and make sure things are turned off, etc., from a distance.

DOORWAYS & HALLWAYS:

Doorways and hallways are very important for those who aging in place is important.  If they can’t navigate with a wheelchair or walker, it is very difficult to stay at home.    Also, the areas around the toilets, sinks, laundry, etc. need to receive consideration.  Areas should allow for walkers and/or wheelchairs to have plenty of access.  5′ x 5′ turn around spaces are needed in areas such as kitchens, in front of bathroom sinks, toilets. etc. .  Use 36″ min. interior doors to allow for 32″ of clearance.

ELECTRICAL

By age 75, a person needs lighting that is twice as bright as younger people. Lighting is a very important issue.   Here are just a few tips on lighting that we implement in our homes.

  • Lighting systems where single buttons turn on specific “scenes” can be very helpful.  Such as; a “hello” button by the door so that when one arrives home that turns on specific lights with one touch.
  • Automatic lighting where a light comes on automatically when a door is opened, such as closets and pantries.  Kevin puts these in as a standard thing in our clients’ pantries so that if their arms are full of groceries, etc., they won’t have to fumble for the light switch.
  • Night lighting can be installed to shine dimly at night near the floor or come on when motion is detected.
  • High tech security systems for video  monitoring of home and the front door are extremely important. Also, family members can check in on them remotely.
  • Replacing incandescent bulbs with LED so that bulbs are not constantly needing replacement.

DOORKNOBS & FAUCETS

Instead of handles that twist, which are difficult for people with arthritis to navigate, choose levers.

FLOORING

Flooring material is very important, as as one ages, ones skeletal structure becomes more sensitive and often there are issues with ones feet.  For optimal aging in place, the flooring should be non-slip and softer materials; such as wood floors, should be used.  Also, it’s important to have some contrast where there are steps or stairs.  We sometimes do this on the rise- even a subtle change alerts one to a change in the terrain.  A friend of mine just told me that she fell at a home where there were  curved steps that were the same color as the surrounding flooring.  She didn’t notice them and walked right into them.  I am a rug lover but they should be minimized and any carpeting should be a low pile.

I hope that you found this article about aging in place helpful!  These are just a few strategies but feel free to ask me about specific needs that you might have.   Also, I would love to know your thoughts and ideas on this subject.

 

 

 

INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS – a Builder’s Perspective (Part III)

Now that we’ve talked about all these cool Interior Design Trends, let’s talk interior design mistakes and why you should use common sense when incorporating trends.

Right now, there is a huge issue in neighborhoods across the country (and even in my own neighborhood) with homes that were done in the trend of the day.  For example, the homes that went with the heavy Tuscan vibe back in the day are not getting much love.  To remodel some of these can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars.   Tayler Alexander-Perez , of Launch Real Estate in Scottsdale, AZ, says,  “Years ago, people didn’t mind buying something and fixing it up but now days buyers want a home that is move-in ready.  At some point these hot trends cycle out of favor so if a trend has been used with a heavy hand, at some point the owner will either have to invest  a significant amount of money to remodel, reduce the price accordingly, or find a buyer gutsy enough to take on a major project”.     I find this to be true, we get calls after a home has sat on the market and the owner wants to know what they can do to make it sellable.  In a million dollar plus home, this can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars. This is good for our business but it really hurts to see fabulous homes that have become irrelevant due to trends.   To avoid this happening to your home, try to incorporate the trends in things that are not that big a deal to switch out and keep the big ticket items more timeless.  If you do your entire floor in a trendy pattern or every counter top in the trend of the day, then ripping it out and re-doing it is a major expense.  For some, money is not an issue and they can go for it, enjoy it and call us down the road, but for most people this is an issue.

Although they were all the rage years ago, overdone Tuscans aren’t getting any love these days.

I like to think of Interior Design Trends like my wardrobe.  If everything is trendy in my closet, then I’ll have to spend a lot of money every time the trends change. But if I have a few cool, trendy pieces that I can put with a mostly classic wardrobe, then I am able to transition with minimal cost throughout the seasons.  If you are unsure about how trendy you should go, it can be worth every penny to consult with a designer who is able to strike the perfect balance between Trend and Timeless Design (and yes, I know of some great ones).

Hey, thanks for spending some time with me discussing Interior DesignTrends and let me know your thoughts! I’m interested!

INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS – a Builder’s Perspective (Part II)

Current Interior Design Trends continued (Builder’s perspective in Part III).

CREAMY NEUTRALS… IS GRAY PASSE?

I am hoping that some design professionals might comment on this.  I’ve heard from a few designers that Gray is going away….at least as far as being the main event in a space.  I am told that in New York and L.A., creamy neutrals, taupes, and bones are “THE THING” and I also noticed that there were very few of the cliche all gray and white colorscapes in the recent ASID design awards.  I understand that Grays will be incorporated as more of a minor accent role to layer with neutrals.  I love the whole gray carrerra marble/white cabinet trend but those who have used this throughout their entire house may end up regretting it.

Builder: Alexander Enterprises Constr. & Dev., Inc. Designer: Amy Bubier, AB Design Elements

WHITE OUT

According to the most recent edition of Remodeling magazine, “Homeowners are ready to ditch all-white kitchens”.       Darker cabinets (even black) are making a comeback and they are being used on their own as well as being mixed in with lighter cabinetry (see photo above, as well).

Builder: Alexander Enterprises Constr. & Dev., Inc. Design by Kimberley Cullumber-Alexander

CONCRETE

This is one of the biggest interior design trends of 2018.  Whether it’s a concrete floor, countertop or a faux concrete look on the wall, concrete’s neutral color is organic, earthy, durable and low maintenance. Geometric concrete tiles are going to be a thing, too.  

Builder: Alexander Enterprises Constr. & Dev., Inc. Design by Kimberley Cullumber-Alexander in collaboration with other design professionals.  Concrete floors, copper fire surround, Porcelanosa concrete look wall tiles.

VINTAGE: Especially Lighting Fixtures & Bucket or Trough Sinks.

Think farm sinks and nostalgia.  I LOVE Kohler’s new Farmstead cast iron vintage farm sink !  We have some client’s looking at this one and I would love to see it in their kitchen!  Note the matte black faucet (matte black is another current interior design trend).

Kohler Co. design center

REDS, PINKS BOLD YELLOWS & TEAL

Builder:  Alexander Enterprises Constr. & Development, Inc. . A bathroom from one of our award winning projects. .

I’ve seen yellow being used on a large scale and I love yellow because it exudes happiness and confidence. Be careful, though. In too great a quantity,  yellow can create anxiety, but in small pops, it is powerful.

Pinks, purples and gold quartz tops- one of the most fun bathrooms we’ve done!  Builder: Alexander Enterprises Constr. & Dev., Inc.,

Hey, thanks for spending some time with me discussing Interior DesignTrends! Let me know your thoughts! I’m interested!

INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS – a Builder’s perspective (Part I)

Me at Kohler’s Design Center, Clintonville, WI.

I would like to chat about some exciting Interior Design Trends.   I’ll discuss the “Builder’s Perspective”  in Part III.

I have gathered information on the Interior Design Trends that I’m discussing through my interior designer friends, our reps in the industry, and industry news.  In addition, as a guest of The Kohler Co. and Ferguson Showrooms for the First Look Tour that took place in Kohler, WI., I was part of a select group of builders and designers that were immersed in upcoming design TRENDS and products.   (A complete side note here-  if you’re ever in Wisconsin, do yourself a favor and stay at Kohler Co.’s, The American Club, the only 5 Star hotel in the Midwest.   And… their spa is incredible!  The Waters   is the best spa- hands down- that I’ve ever experienced!  Now, back to the subject.)

In  the 2018 Ashton Woods National Home Buyer Survey   ,which sets out to identify trends and owner preferences, there is some very interesting information.  Owners say:

  • They prefer rustic elements over industrial. I personally LOVE the Industrial vibe so a little Rustic /Industrial marriage could still work!
  • They prefer natural wood over white.
  • Their least favorite cabinet/countertop combo is dark cabinets/dark tops.
  • Their favorite cabinet/countertop combo is light cabinets/dark tops.
  • They prefer rustic & transitional interiors over contemporary and farmhouse interiors but they prefer  Ranch and Modern for the architectural style.
  • They are shying away from  the Bohemian, Coastal and Scandanavian looks.

I will be  discussing just a handful of the new Trends in this Interior Design Trends series:

COPPER ACCENTS, BRASS FIXTURES & MIXED METALS

 When I first heard of this interior design trend, I was appalled.  I still remember the old antiqued gold fixtures that sat right alongside the avocado appliances and orange shag carpet.   However, I have to admit that I’ve changed my tune.  I especially love the copper and rose golds.  I did my powder bath with copper fixtures and the ceiling in a rusted, copper metal, which I love.  The matte copper fixtures have an industrial flare, which I happen to love.  Interestingly, although the gold/bronze fixtures are trending, many surveys find that people still prefer brushed nickel and stainless finishes.  Some of the products you see in the photo below: California Faucets Avalon single handle wall faucet in weathered copper, custom metal cabinets, Kohler’s new matte black toilet (a gift from my fabulous Kohler rep),  and Kohler’s Artist’s Edition Antilia Wading  Pool sink   (which I love and have in my personal home).  (The photos look very dark because they are impromptu from my iphone just to show the coppery/rose gold fixture colors.  The cabinet is metal).

Builder: Alexander Enterprises Constr. & Dev., Inc.  Design by Kimberley Cullumber-Alexander, in collaboration with other design professionals.

BLACK & WHITE

I like adding some natural elements to a black and white kitchen, such as the brick backsplash shown here or some wood. We haven’t done a black and white yet so I borrowed this from the internet and have no idea who to give credit to.

Although this color palette is timeless, it is trending even stronger now in Europe, New York and Los Angeles.  Designers are incorporating black into the all-white kitchens, baths and main interiors of the past…..a black island, black tub , black plumbing fixtures and geometric black and white patterns in flooring.  I especially love it when the look is softened with wood and other natural elements and speaking of….

NATURAL ELEMENTS/ORGANIC

Greyhawk on Black Mountain in Arizona, designed by the iconic, award-winning Gerry Jones.

When I think of organic interior design, I think “Frank Lloyd Wright”.  This trend incorporates clean lines, lots of light, natural materials (wood, stone, plants) and is fresh and modern.  My husband and I attended an event at this home and it is organic design at it’s finest! Gerry Jones, the designer, is self-taught and revered in the world of architecture and master planning.  He was also an instructor with Frank Lloyd Wright’s Talliesin West School of Architecture for over 17 years.

Builder: Alexander Enterprises Constr. & Dev., Inc.  Design by Kimberley Cullumber-Alexander

GEOMETRIC PATTERNS

Designer: Kristen Forgione, The Lifestyled Company

In  2018,  the patterns have gone even bolder, more oversized and more dramatic.  No one does this better than my friend Kristen Forgione, owner of The Lifestyled Company in Gilbert, AZ (see photo).

Thanks for hanging out with me.   Feel free to comment and let me know what types of things you would like to know about in the building  and design arenas.  I’m interested in what you have to say!