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Archive for the ‘Kitchen Remodeling’ Category
Monday, February 27th, 2012
Are white kitchens still in style?
Just the other day, Lisa M. Smith’s, The Decor Girl Blog, husband asked the same question. Lisa replied, "Honey, a good white kitchen never goes out of style. My only disclaimer is with some of the pebble finish thermafoil cabinets from the 1980′s – they can look tired." and proceeded to show off some stylish white kitchens which included a couple of Titus Built kitchens. Below are photos of white kitchens created for Titus Built clients’ lifestyle:
Classic white kitchen with beadboard and vintage style drawer pulls.
Hidden washer & dryer unit in the kitchen – Your Home. Your Lifestyle.
Curved marble backsplash in the kitchen or bathroom adds a level of elegance to the room.
Columns with archway between serving counter and dining room add a touch of elegance and enhances the spacious feeling of the kitchen.
Adding a desk to your kitchen creates organization and functuality. Your Home. Your Lifestyle.
6 burner with griddle commercial ranges continue to be a trend for the kitchen.
We are honored to be included in Lisa’s blog. Below is a link to her recent blog on The Classic White Kitchen:
http://www.decorgirl.net/2012/02/the-classic-white-kitchen/
Tags: Bump-Out Addition, Classic white kitchen, Connecticut, Fairfield County, Improving Functionality, Remodel, Renovations, Ridgefield
Posted in Kitchen Remodeling | No Comments »
Wednesday, June 15th, 2011
Don’t you love the look of this exterior facelift! The front exterior of this home has true New England character. We completed remodeling the front exterior last month and are busy working on Phase II, the kitchen addition.
Front View of Home Before Renovation
Exterior Renovation of New Canaan, CT Residence
Phase II consists of constructing a kitchen addition, including a sitting room and pantry, as well as the renovation of existing mudroom area. We will also be furnishing and installing a 1,200 sq.ft. Ipe wood deck and seating:
The excavation and foundation were completed last month.
The team has finished framing the turret with a curved roof and they are beginning to install the cedar shingle roof.
While the construction team is busy working outside, our millwork shop is fabricating the kitchen and mudroom cabinetry. Cabinetry will be a painted, glazed finish with a stained knotty alder Island.
Stay tuned… more photos to follow soon!
To see previous blogs on this home renovations click the links below:
Tags: Addition, Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Greenwich, Improving Functionality, Kitchen Addition, New Canaan, Redding, Remodel, Remodeling, Renovations, Ridgefield, Update Exterior, Weston, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Exterior Remodeling, Interior Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling | No Comments »
Tuesday, May 31st, 2011
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When Jeff Titus bought an antique home in Wilton, CT he knew from the start that he wanted to preserve the exterior structure, but the interior of this 3-story house had fallen into disrepair; been remodeled several times over the 200+ year; and, had endless chopped up tiny rooms. The windows were narrow so they didn’t afford views of the property or let in enough natural light. “Most of the plaster wall were uneven, the front door opened directly into the main staircase to the second floor, and its location didn’t make any sense,” said Jeff.
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After Jeff bought the house, he hired a dendrochronology lab to take samples from the fireplace lentil, front wall and floor joists to run scientific dating tests. (Dendrochronology or tree-ring dating is the scientific method of dating based on the analysis of patterns of tree-rings. Dendrochronology can date the time at which tree rings were formed, in many types of wood, to the exact calendar year. From Wikipedia) The lab results were inconclusive; the best likely dating was somewhere between 1740 and 1760, but during this period it was not uncommon to reuse wood from an older home when building a new home. The Wilton Historical Society dated the home’s origin to 1791.
When remodeling an antique home you never know exactly what you’ll be dealing with until you begin to demolish part of the structure. As Jeff points out, “whenever you open up walls, particularly in an old house, you know you’re going to find things that need to be fixed. But when I ripped out the walls, I found a lot of problems I hadn’t expected”. There was no insulation; the wiring was old and of frayed covered cloth; there were two buried (blocked-in) fireplaces; during one of the previous renovations someone had placed steel beams incorrectly (sideways); and, as with most antique homes the walls and floors were not plumb and there was a lack of space for today’s mechanicals (i.e. duct work).
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Although Jeff didn’t go into the project planning to replicate the 18th C details, he did want to design the new space with respect for the home’s history. The beams were sound, and of history of the house, so they were left in place. “It’s hard to replicate this type of detailed post and beam construction today”, Jeff explained. The original center chimney remains the core of the home; although it had to be rebuilt from the top of the first floor up through the roof. And, another noteworthy fireplace in the dining room remained intact. In 1943 John Bransby and his wife purchased the property and carefully restored much of the home. One of the most historically significant additions made to the home is a fireplace decorated with ceramic tiled bas relief’s depicting important events and places in the Bransby’s lives.
Above is a close up of one of the ceramic bas relief tiles from the fireplace. The tile featured is the Wilton Congregational Church c.1790, the third church built in Wilton. The tiles were made by Bransby’s long time friend Svea Kline and were glazed with the ashes from an apple tree on Dudley Road.
In designing the new space with respect for the home’s history, Jeff built bookshelves and closets in nooks and crannies under eaves and stairwells. “I like to use all the space, and the nooks and crannies give the house character” Jeff explained. He also installed bead board, paneled wainscoting and custom molding in many of the rooms.
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Walking up the stone walk to the front of the home brings you back in time with its broad expanse of front porch, but inside brings you to the 21st C with a professional kitchen, walk in pantry and mudroom, central air conditioning, central vacuum, a whole house sound system and cable TV/Internet network – A home of nostalgia past with a fusion of 21st C comfort for today’s family.
Tags: Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Greenwich, Improving Functionality, New Canaan, Remodel, Renovations, Ridgefield, Weston, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Bathroom Remodeling, Exterior Remodeling, Historical Renovations, Interior Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling, Wine Cellars | No Comments »
Friday, May 6th, 2011
Titus Built is pleased to announce that a current New Canaan resident client donated their existing kitchen to Green Demolitions. “Green Demolitions sells luxury commercial surplus and donated kitchens, appliances, bathroom fixtures, home decor, etc. from houses being demolished and renovated in Greenwich and New Canaan, CT, Scarsdale and Bedford, NY, and beyond. Donation proceeds benefit Recovery Unlimited, the operating name of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting a highly successful addiction recovery program established in 1964.”
The kitchen was sent to Green Demolitions of Riverdale, NJ. Julie Rinaldi, Julie@greendemolitions.com, updated the kitchen by adding new countertops; replacing the wooden knobs with contemporary tubular brushed nickel hardware; and, streamlining the island by cutting off the existing eating area. Julie said her customer purchased the entire kitchen ensemble, including the appliance, and was extremely delighted with their purchase.
Next time you remodel, remember to recycle! What better way to “go green” than to recycle your kitchen or bathroom. The recycled kitchen offers others the opportunity to receive a “new” kitchen which they may not have otherwise been able to afford, supports a worthy charity as well as providing you with a tax deduction. Go Green… Recycle!
Tags: Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Design-Build, Energy Efficient Homes, Fairfield County, Green Building, Green Demolitions, Green Remodel, Greenwich, New Canaan, Redding, Remodeling, Renovations, Ridgefield, West Redding, Weston, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Charity Events, Green Building, Kitchen Remodeling | No Comments »
Monday, February 21st, 2011
How to determine what makes sense for your family.
Before making the decision to renovate your existing home or move, ask yourself a few questions:
- Do you like the town you live in?
- Do you like your property and your neighbors?
- Is your property expandable?
If the answer is "no" to any of these questions, then you need not give remodeling another thought!
On the other hand, if you answer "yes" to the questions above then you still must consider the following:
The Selling Cycle: During the selling process your home must always be kept clean and tidy for potential viewings. In today’s economy it is taking an average of four months to sell a home in Fairfield County.
Moving Before You Sell: If you move and sell your home after relocating to your new home, potential buyers will believe that if you hold onto your old home long enough the stress factor will come into play. This increases the chance that you will receive lower offers on your home.
Unexpected Upgrade Costs: When upgrading your home and moving to a new location, you must consider the higher costs. A larger home also means bigger utility bills, homeowner’s insurance premiums and so forth. That lawn that used to cost you $100/week to maintain now costs much more. Do your homework and get estimates on these additional costs prior to purchasing your new home. We have heard from many homeowners who were taken by surprise when their Landscape Contractors gave them the estimate for their new property!
Related Fees: Real estate commissions, closing and moving costs will typically be 10% or more of your selling price.
Moving Costs and Headaches: Once you sell your home you have to pack up your belongings and move. The new home will be filled with boxes to unpack and redecorate.
Redecorating Expenses: Unless your home is custom built, you will also need to paint and refurbish your new home. Perhaps those drapes and blinds that fit so nicely in your old home no longer suit the new house. Sometimes, although the previous owners thought their taste was exquisite, you don’t share the same aesthetic.
Family Issues: If children are involved, they must be uprooted and transferred to a new neighborhood. Most children are quite resilient and able to cope with the transition smoothly, but this is obviously an important factor in a family’s decision to move.
If you are considering a move, don’t hesitate to call us before buying your new home. A Pre-purchase Consultation and Renovation Feasibility Analysis will help you visualize the renovation prior to purchase.
At Titus Built, we are able to transform your thoughts and ideas into reality. Your home will be designed to enhance your lifestyle with new technology, re-purposed rooms, and built-ins added to minimize your footprint in a clutter-free environment.
Tags: Bump-Out Addition, Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Design-Build, Exterior Facelift, Fairfield County, Greenwich, Improving Functionality, New Canaan, Pre-purchase Consultation, Remodeling, Renovation Feasibility Analysis, Renovations, Ridgefield, Small Addition, Update Exterior, Weston, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Exterior Remodeling, Home Maintenance & Remodeling Tips, Interior Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling | No Comments »
Friday, February 18th, 2011
The economic downturn has been felt by many Fairfield County homeowners. Split-level and raised ranch homes offer more square footage than other styles of homes for the money. And, per the local realtors’ buzz, these once less desired homes are making a comeback with their clients.
Titus Built, LLC has been providing architectural design and remodeling services to the Fairfield County community for over fifteen years. Split-levels are just one style of the many homes we have transformed. Thought you’d like to see some photos of one of our split-level, design-build remodels:
Split-level goes modern on OLDHOUSEonline with “a house built in 1958 by the Modernist architect Edward James, which recalls the philosophy of Frank Lloyd Wright—author of The Natural House and the architect whose career spanned from the Prairie School of the Arts & Crafts era into International Style and Modern design… With main rooms a story above grade, this split-level house gives the impression of living in a glorious tree house.” Click here to preview this modern split-level renovation .
Tags: Addition, Bump-Out Addition, Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Design-Build, Energy Efficient Homes, Exterior Facelift, Fairfield County, Fairfield County Realtor Buzz, Greenwich, Improving Functionality, New Canaan, Raised Ranch Remodel, Remodel, Remodeling, Renovations, Ridgefield, Small Addition, Split Level Remodel, Update Exterior, Weston, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Bathroom Remodeling, Exterior Remodeling, Interior Decorating Ideas, Interior Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling | No Comments »
Monday, January 17th, 2011
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Laundry Room Hidden in Kitchen Cabinets
Front Load Washer & Dryer
The need for multi-purpose rooms is usually associated with small homes, but according to a Procter and Gamble survey today the average American woman spends seven to nine hours a week on laundry. And, according to an ICPS Family Study on dual-wage families, “women devote an average of 28-29 hrs/week to all household duties combined, while men’s contributions range from 15.57 to 19.39 hrs/week, depending on whether the man himself, or his spouse is reporting.” Whether you agree with these reports, or not, we live busier lives and need to multitask to accomplish our daily responsibilities and spend time with our families.
Embrace the art of living by allowing one room to serve many purposes. Below are photos of several multi-purpose rooms to allow you to multitask and enjoy your family at the same time.
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Kitchen & Family Room Combination
Office in Kitchen or Family Room Closet
Playroom & Workout Room Combination
Pantry & Mudroom Combination
Located between garage and kitchen
When architectural design is done right, rooms are configured to fit in your existing home by utilizing the space to its maximum potential. These multi-purposes rooms help you to enjoy a less stressful life.
Tags: Addition, Bump-Out Addition, Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Improving Functionality, Mudroom, Multi-Purpose Rooms, Playroom, Remodel, Remodeling, Renovations, Small Addition, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Home Maintenance & Remodeling Tips, Interior Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling | No Comments »
Monday, January 3rd, 2011
When we begin the process of designing a kitchen we ask a lot of questions. One of the most important is, “What matters most to you about this space?”
A simple question? Seemingly, but the answer really depends on you-your goals, concerns and requirements. While one person would say “A great work space”, another might reply, “a great gathering place”, and a third would say “I just need MORE space.”Most want all three-a more efficient workspace wrapped in a beautiful package where people love to come and be together. In most cases there will be some compromise. Space restrictions and budget realities tend to dictate prioritization.
So, when you think about what matters most to you, focus on what you won’t compromise on. What is absolutely not negotiable?
Start with the appliances, since their placement is key to the efficiency of the layout. Is it a range with a griddle? A 42″ built-in refrigerator? Double ovens with a warming drawer? What about a paneled (hidden) refrigerator and dishwasher? Maybe a second dishwasher?
Next, think about function. Do you need seating at your island? How many people? What about at the kitchen table? One or two sinks? A pot filler?
Consider your lifestyle. Are there now fewer people in your home or do you find yourself feeding the football team on Friday nights? What about in the next three to five years? What about grandchildren? The beautiful empty nest kitchen you’ve just completed might get a good work-out from an active, curious toddler.
Last, think about YOUR style. What do you want to see in the morning when you trudge downstairs bleary-eyed to face the coffee pot? Or at the end of a long day as you scrape the dishes before loading the dishwasher, (even though the new dishwasher doesn’t require it!) What, in the end, will make you happy?
The kitchen is a large portion of your remodeling investment, and we want to be sure that you enjoy and benefit from it for many years to come.
Judi Stoogenke, Titus Built Newsletter
Tags: Connecticut, Custom Cabinets, Custom Millwork, Darien, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Improving Functionality, New Canaan, Remodeling, Renovations, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Interior Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling | No Comments »
Monday, December 27th, 2010
Rick and Maura wanted more room in their Westport, CT home to accommodate their three growing children and make the whole family more comfortable. At the same time, it was important to them to maintain the integrity of their 1914 house. They wanted the remodel to look as if it had always been a part of their home, which they purchased in 1997. The Westport couple heard about Titus Built from a friend who had a positive experience with the company, and they learned that Titus Built specialized in exactly the kind of work they were seeking.
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During preliminary meetings with Titus Built, Rick was impressed by the thoroughness of Titus Built’s proposal and bidding process. "Titus Built scored very high with us during the bidding portion of the project," says Rick, “We were struck by the thoughtfulness of their proposal. It was clear they had a depth of experience with the detailed, carefully considered work we needed."Titus Built designed and built a 1-1/2 story addition, including a family room and additional living areas, to the back of the Westport couple’s home. Working with Titus Built’s design-build service model was one of the most positive aspects of the project, according to Rick. "The process was very organized and easier for us, because of the ‘soup to nuts’ services from one company. We didn’t have to act as a bridge between a designer, a builder, and an architect."
Rick considers working with Titus Built a good value and a positive experience. "The process was very tight and professional. Titus Built showed excellent control with their sub-contractors, and each phase of the project was well run." The Westport couple found that working with Titus Built gave them the same quality and level of service they would receive from a high-end architect, but with the convenience of working with one firm, from start to finish.
As for the Westport couple’s primary concern that their 1914 home retain its design integrity? "On a scale of 1-10 for architectural aesthetic, I would give Titus Built a 12," says Rick.
Call 203-834-0275 to see how we can help. Or visit us at www.titusbuilt.com.
Tags: Addition, Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Improving Functionality, Kitchen Remodeling, Remodel, Remodeling, Renovations, Tradition Transformed, Update Exterior, Westport, Woodworking
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Exterior Remodeling, Historical Renovations, Interior Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling | No Comments »
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