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Archive for September, 2011
Tuesday, September 27th, 2011
Home has become a personal retreat for most families ~ a place where they can enjoy spending time with their family and friends. Multi-functional basement or attic rooms are a trend at Titus Built. Many of our clients are deciding to increase their home’s footprint by renovating their basement, attic or adding outdoor entertainment spaces.
If a homeowner is thinking about renovating it is important that they understand that the key part of a remodel is the design. Each homeowner’s criteria for their basement or attic renovation is different and it is important that they choose an architect or design-build remodeler that maximizes the footprint to meet their specific needs while adding function to some of the most underused space in their home.
The first group of photos is of an attic remodel in Wilton, CT. The original part of the home was built in the 18th century, and therefore, the attic was the best choice to renovate for the children’s playroom and an area for our clients’ to workout.
Kitchenettes are often included in an attic or basement renovation.
A home office, or a bedroom with a bathroom, is also a great choice when remodeling the attic.
Another client was interested in renovating the basement for their parents. They wanted a room where their visiting parents could sleep as well as spend some quality time by themselves. It was important to our clients that the entire renovated space feel like it “belonged” with the rest of their home. Besides the bedroom and sitting area they also wanted us to create storage space for wine.
Cool teen hangouts, pantries and home gyms are frequent basement renovation requests. Below are photos of a few more of our basement remodels:
Basement before Kids’ Recreation Room Renovation
Basement After Kids’ Rec Room Renovation in Wilton, CT
New Canaan, CT client opted for home gym and pantry for their basement remodel.
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We are currently working on a basement renovation in Greenwich, CT. Our client wanted a room where the kids could access the room from the exterior of the house. The exterior entry has been completed and we are in the process of remodeling the interior of the basement. The rooms will consist of a home gym, full bathroom, kitchenette, and rec room with pool table, home theater and 2 3-high bunk beds to sleep six… Talk about a Cool Teen Hangout!
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(Progress Report: Basement Remodel in Greenwich, Connecticut: http://bit.ly/oY4V4m)
After the basement or attic renovation is complete it is important to call your home insurance agent and upgrade your homeowner’s policy. If you are looking to remodel your attic or basement, call 203-834-0275 to see how we can help.
Happy Remodeling!
For more Attic & Basement remodeling tips visit the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI): http://bit.ly/mXjmNR
Interested in expanding your home’s footprint thru Outdoor Spaces: Decks, Pergolas, Patios & Screened-in Porches http://bit.ly/qGkNMm.
Tags: attic remodel, basement renovation, Connecticut, Fairfield County, Greenwich, Multi-Functional Rooms, New Canaan, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Attic Renovation, Basement Remodeling | 2 Comments »
Friday, September 23rd, 2011
Our basement remodel project in Greenwich, CT is progressing nicely. The exterior project is complete and we are very pleased with the outcome. Our subcontractor had to match the new entry stairway with the existing stone wall. Stones needed to be cut square while paying close attention to the colors. We think he did a fantastic job… see for yourself:
The inside rough framing is complete and we are beginning to rough in the mechanicals (heating, plumbing, electrical, and duct systems).
Stay tuned for updates!
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To view previous blog on the Greenwich, CT basement remodel click link here: http://bit.ly/oa5U5B
Tags: basement renovation, Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Fairfield County, Fine masonry stone work, Greenwich
Posted in Basement Remodeling, Exterior Remodeling | No Comments »
Thursday, September 15th, 2011
Glazed Panels with gilded and glazed niche
Exploring trends with local designer Heidi Holzer, Owner of Heidi Holzer Design and Decorative Work in Redding, CT
A few months ago we met with Heidi Holzer of Heidi Holzer Design and Decorative Work to see some of her new signature wall finishes and fell in love with many of them. They are fantastic and will change your room from ordinary to extraordinary – a cut above. Titus Built’s master craftsmen create the custom-designed details that make your home one-of-a-kind and we are pleased to include the artisans of Heidi Holzer on our team. For more than two decades, Heidi Holzer Design and Decorative Work has transformed interior living spaces throughout the Northeast and beyond. Their methods include gilding, glazing, light refractive finishes, Venetian plaster, clay plaster, antiquing, reverse glass finishes, faux stone, faux ivory and more. Heidi Holzer Design and Decorative Work has been featured in six national publications. The aesthetics the company brings to each project are strongly influenced by Heidi’s previous successful careers in both custom jewelry and fashion. Recently we asked Heidi to share some of her experience with current trends in wall finishing and how the process can transform an interior living space.
 Color Gradation done to coordinate with fabrics and artwork
Faux Travertine with marble chips in custom color done in horizontal stripes
What are the current trends for wall finishes?
Metallic finishes are very popular right now, applied somewhat differently than they have been in the past. One method, for example, combines Venetian plastering with a metallic top layer. The addition of the metallic adds more depth and rich reflection qualities.
Aluminum Leaf cabinet with distressing and umber glaze
Hand painted Striae with pearlized mica stripes custom sized for each wall
How do you decide if wall finishes are the right idea for your home?
Sometimes price is a deterrent when considering wall finishes because the initial cost is higher than painting or wallpaper. Once you understand the actual value, choosing wall finishes makes sense. Wall finishes are much more durable than wallpaper or paint. Consider the difference between your average paint job and Venetian plastering, for instance. With the Venetian plastering process, five layers of very strong acrylic plaster are applied. This is a much stronger process than paint and hides fissures and cracks much better. Glazes are also more durable because they are more easily washed than painted surfaces, without residual marking.
Venetian Plaster walls with gold leaf niche and mica glazed cornice
Authentic Abalone embedded in Venetian plaster with mica wax
What are some interesting or challenging projects you’ve worked on recently?
We worked on a home in lower Fairfield County that was more contemporary than typical for the area. The owners wanted to concentrate on finishes that would look best at night since they entertain frequently and were usually spending most of their time at home after the sun went down. The client was interested in experimenting with a variety of painting techniques and different colored plasters. We accomplished the clients’ goals by using very clear colors, including yellow, blue and green, with no umber. The surfaces were highly waxed and polished to increase reflection. Wherever there was less light on a surface – for instance, on a niche – we added mica powders (non-toxic mineral powders) to final waxes to bring a light refractive quality to the space. There are no off the shelf solutions with Heidi Holzer and Titus Built … you know your home will look beautiful and original.
 Aluminum Leaf with custom color base and grid pattern glaze in a pale mica to coordinate with stainless steel and chrome elements in room
Thank you to Heidi Holzer for her participation in our blog. We look forward to working with her team for many years to come.
Tags: Connecticut, Fairfield County, Heidi Holzer Design and Decorative Work, Wall Finishes
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Interior Decorating Ideas, Interior Remodeling | No Comments »
Monday, September 12th, 2011
Contracts have been signed and demolition of the South Norwalk, CT whole house remodel is scheduled to commence in approximately two weeks. “When our clients learned that their new remodeling plans called for the entire interior of their home to be demolished, they thought, what better way to celebrate the kick off of a remodeling project than to invite some of their closest friends over for a food fight?” stated Jeff Titus. Jeff and his family were invited to the event:
The kids thought they would start the party off with Silly String & paint.
The homeowners supplied food, condiments and safety eyewear—all you need for a good food fight. All guests were required to wear white.
As for the clean up, there was none needed. That’s the point of having a food fight prior to a major remodeling project. If the walls, ceilings and floors are being torn out, cleaning up afterwards is not much of a concern.
Looks like they needed a few prayers (?)
What better way to celebrate the beginning of your new adventure in home renovations than to have a food fight party. It’s a great fun for all!
Stay tuned for updates on the South Norwalk, CT home renovation!
Whole House Renovation of Waterfront Property in Norwalk, Connecticut
Tags: Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Renovations, Ridgefield
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations | No Comments »
Thursday, September 8th, 2011
Mario Tama, Getty Images
With the tenth anniversary of September 11th coming up this weekend, we wanted to share some information with you about how to get involved in the National Day of Service and Remembrance.
"Beginning in 2002, family members who lost loved ones in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and support groups began to seek a forward-looking tribute to honor the sacrifice of those who were lost and pay tribute to those who rose in service in response to the tragedy.
By encouraging Americans to participate in service and remembrance activities on the 9/11 anniversary, family members wanted to provide a productive and respectful way to honor those who perished and rekindle the spirit of unity and compassion that swept our nation after 9/11 to help meet the challenges we face today." Learn more about how to participate here.
The images and nightmare are instilled in our minds and we will never forget. I was home, making our bed, watching GMA on ABC when the show was interrupted with the news. I will never forget watching one tower on fire, the jet hitting the second tower, and both towers collapsing. I am sure everyone remembers where they were when they heard the news. This Sunday, September 11th, 2011, let us all display the American flag outside every home, office, and store in the United States. Let’s do this in honor of those who lost their lives on 9/11, their families, friends, and loved ones who continue to endure the pain, and those today that are fighting at home and abroad to preserve our cherished freedom.
God Bless America!
Tags: 10th anniversary of September 11th, 9/11
Posted in Charity Events | No Comments »
Friday, September 2nd, 2011
Expand your home to embrace outdoor living
Labor Day is around the corner and a new season is about to begin. Many of us have just returned from our summer family vacations and the children are back in school. As we look forward to autumn we want to cherish memories of time shared with our family and friends during the summer and find ways to extend those good feelings throughout the year. Expanding your living area to the outdoors this fall is the ideal way to carry the simple pleasures of entertaining at home into new spaces and seasons.
Today, there’s no reason for a backyard to be just a vast expanse of lawn. The potential for your outdoor space is more exciting than ever. Swimming pools, decks, patios and outdoor kitchens turn the average backyard barbecue into a setting for sumptuous gourmet feasts and festivities. Rustic fireplaces and hi-tech patio heaters play an important role in lengthening the comfort of the outdoors to cooler months, allowing you to share wonderful evenings roasting marshmallows and making s’mores in the fall.
Michael Kodis, author of "Ultimate Backyard", writes "If you want to raise the value of your home, start thinking about ways to add structural interest and comfort to your backyard, patio, deck, side yard – you name it." A home’s living space can be doubled by the extension of the backyard. Outdoor spaces can be places to gather together or to escape to and relax in solitude.
Successful backyard design is much more than just adding appliances and accessories. It is best approached as an overall home-design process – an extension of your home, unifying the inside with the outside.
As you begin your new adventure in backyard entertainment you will find that your friends – and your children’s friends – will all want to come and enjoy your new abode. In well-designed outdoor spaces, you can create memories that will last a lifetime.
Tags: Connecticut, Fairfield County
Posted in Outdoor Spaces: Patios, Pergolas & Screened-in Porches | No Comments »
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