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Posts Tagged ‘Ridgefield’
Thursday, March 21st, 2013
The kitchen has become the hub of the home. Not only is the kitchen the place where you prepare foods, more often than not, it ends up being the gathering place for family and friends. At Titus Built, our client’s input is essential when designing their kitchen. When thinking about a kitchen renovation their lifestyle plays an important part of the design and material selection. Keeping up with the Jones’ is not the key factor, but rather what suites their budget and lifestyle. Resale is also a key factor when considering a remodel. When choosing a remodeler to renovate your kitchen it is important to hire a partner that can enhance your lifestyle as well as increase the value of your home; a partner that will ensure a smooth and positive experience. It’s critical that you understand your partner’s vision, philosophy, and values to make sure they align with your goals.
Design is a crucial part of the remodel. Quality cabinetry is another key component to a good kitchen renovation. You want your dollars to last and not “look good” for a short period of time. Fine cabinetry uses quality materials and workmanship as well as offers unique, custom styles.
Below are photos of fine quality cabinetry including clever kitchen ideas:
Our Harbor View clients’ wanted a kitchen where they could entertain. We designed and handcrafted a kitchen where each custom piece of cabinetry was made completely by hand at 1″ thick, with self-closing soft touch technology and substantial marble countertops providing ample space for prep, cooking and entertaining during large gatherings.
One of our Redding clients brought us their ideas and we worked with them right down the smallest details to give them the kitchen they desired. Cabinet doors were designed and fabricated to the millimeter of our clients’ specifications; wood for countertops was hand selected by Jeff Titus and the clients; the stone surround and stone incorporated into the island were handcrafted to complement the adjacent family room fireplace; and, the organization of the info center was tailored to our clients’ requirements. Photo is of the veneer stone surround with spice shelves installed inside the surround.
A New Canaan, client wanted to make sure her newly remodeled kitchen stayed uncluttered, so she requested cabinet built-ins for paper towels. General manager Jeff Titus and the architect worked together on the design, which includes a holder to the right of the main sink and the island sink. Other details in the kitchen include a variation in depth of base cabinets; a custom made china hutch; and a full walk-in pantry.
Our Westport clients wanted more room in their 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. 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. The couple also wanted a functional laundry room in the kitchen/family room area, but wanted the washer and dryer units concealed. Titus Built designed and built cabinets to hide their washer and dryer units. Custom cabinets can be designed and handcrafted to accommodate both apartment and full-sized units.
Here are some other clever kitchen ideas that you should think about including in your kitchen design:
Cutting board to fit over compost bin
Pull out storage
Pull out cutting board
Hidden pocket door in cabinetry
Brass & stainless sink with front towel rack
Pantry – pull out shelves in closet
Pull out dog dishes in cabinetry
Storage for sink
Sink drawers
Pull out dish cloth storage
Peg drawer dividers for dishes
Drawer for upright utensils
Kitchen power grommet
Pull out under sink storage
Remote Locking Cabinets
Refrigerator Drawers
Trash & recycle shoots
You may also want to consider a closet pantry, pantry addition inclusive off drawer refrigerators, room temperature and chilled wine storage, a closet turned into an office… the list is endless. With Titus Built, our master craftsmen create the custom-designed details that make your home one-of-a-kind. Ask us about the difference.
Tags: Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Fairfield County, Greenwich, New Canaan, Norwalk, Redding, Remodel, Renovations, Ridgefield, Weston, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Kitchen Remodeling | 5 Comments »
Thursday, April 26th, 2012
Referrals are still Titus Built’s best sales leads. Referral leads converted to contracts top all other categories, followed by Repeat Customers and SoMe… Advertising is way down the list.
We are grateful for all our referrals. Referrals are more than a sales lead – they are a report card. We also understand that referrals to us are the referrer’s clients and friends, and therefore, it is important that we treat them with utmost courtesy and respect.
As a thank you for your loyalty, Titus Built has initiated a new referral program. Should you refer us to a client who undertakes a construction project with Titus Built (including a signed Construction Agreement of at least $10,000 value)** we will express our appreciation by offering you a Referral Reward.
1st Referral Rewards (choose one)
-$100 donated to the charity of your choice (via www.JustGive.org)
-$100 gift certificate for a local restaurant of your choice
-$100 American Express gift card
2 or more referrals within same calendar year (choose one)
-$250* donated to the charity of your choice (via www.JustGive.org)
-$250* gift certificate for a local restaurant of your choice
-$250* American Express gift card
Also, upon signing a Titus Built, LLC Construction Contract Agreement of $50,000 or more, your referred friend will receive a $500 LILLIAN AUGUST Home Furnishings and Interior Design Gift Card.
*for each referral
Regardless of whether any referral turns into a project for Titus Built, we greatly value your referrals and extend our sincere appreciation!
**The reward will be based on the signed Construction Agreement and will be fulfilled within 30 days of the contract signing.
Rewarding you for your business and referrals
Tags: Connecticut, Custom Home Builder, Darien, Fairfield County, Greenwich, New Canaan, Referral Program, Renovations, Ridgefield, Weston, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Thank You! | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 29th, 2012
The first part of any successful relationship is to make sure the contractor and the homeowner understand each other. The contractor should: provide the services you need; deliver the quality you expect; offer good value for the services offered; stand behind the homeowner and the contractor’s work when project is complete; and, communicate clearly and professionally.
How to determine what makes sense for your family – Your Home…Your Lifestyle.
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 house sellable as is?
- Does your property allow for expansion or improvements?
If the answer is "no" to any of these questions, then you need not give remodeling another thought!
Did you know? That a typical $250k project… can take 3-5 months to properly plan and design before construction begins; can require thousands of decisions regarding design, planning and production; can require coordinating up to 30 trades, numerous supply vendors and town officials; and, can require over 100 individuals to work on the job site during the project duration?
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 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 overall operating costs increased dramatically.
Related Fees: Real estate commissions, closing and moving costs will typically be 10% or more of your selling price.
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. A custom built home may be your answer!
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.
“In remodeling, thoughtful design, budgeting and proper planning are equally important to the actual construction process and ultimately contribute to a positive remodeling experience.” Jeffrey A. Titus, CGR
Still Have Questions? Join Jeff Titus of Titus Built, LLC and Kevin O’Brien of Wilton Country Homes this Friday, March 2, 2012 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and “Meet the Builder and Realtor” at 48 Keelers Ridge Road, Wilton, Connecticut.
Looking to purchase land to build your dream home? Ask a contractor for a pre-purchase consultation. This will save you time, less aggravation and money. And, don’t forget to ask questions! What style of home best suites the land? A professional builder will help you realize your dreams so that you can love the home you’re in!
Ask the Questions! How can they help you realize your dreams with a remodel or custom built home? Should you sell, renovate, or custom build? Ever thought about a Pre-purchase Consultation and Renovation Feasibility Analysis to help you visualize the renovation prior to purchase? Jeff and Kevin will be there to help unravel the mysteries of what kind of home to build, whether to buy a custom built home or renovate, as well as current real estate and construction trends. They want you to love the home you’re in!
Tags: 2012, Addition, Connecticut, Custom Built Home, Fairfield County, Friday, March 2, Meet the Builder, Open House, Ridgefield, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, For Sale, New Homes For Sale | No Comments »
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 »
Tuesday, October 18th, 2011
Architectural Rendering of rear (Waterfront View) of House
Rear View of Home before Renovation
This waterfront renovation project started during the Spring of 2011 when Jeff Titus, owner of Titus Built, LLC, met with the homeowners to discuss the project. Jeff believes that it is imperative a potential client meets with him to establish a good contractor/client relationship. From the start of the project, our clients have been very excited about the home renovation. To help us visualize their ideas, they tabbed pages in magazines of “wish list” items for us to see:
After Jeff Titus listened to our clients’ requests, and gave them a preliminary estimate of what the project would cost, they signed off on a Design Concept Agreement. Below are the final Architectural Renderings of this remodel project:
Architectural Rendering of front of House
During the Design-Build process we completed the estimate of cost, contract schedule and plans. Below are the final revision floor plans:
1st Floor Final Revision Floor Plan
2nd Floor Final Revision Floor Plans
3rd Floor Final Revision Floor Plan
Construction Contracts were signed on September 30th and last week we started the demolition of a house on waterfront property in Norwalk, CT. The interior of the home has been completely gutted and this week the roof and ceilings will be demolished to the first floor ceiling. The sunroom will be taken away.
Commencement of Demolition
Demoliton of 1st Floor
Demolition of 2nd Floor
Demolition of 3rd Floor
When remodeling a home there are so many decisions that need to be made. A few of our clients’ choices/decisions are listed below:
- Window Manufacturer: LePage, Marvin or Jeld-Wen – Still up in the air, but leaning towards LePage: http://bit.ly/oFbVkb.
- Foam insulation vs fiberglass – Our clients chose foam insulation.
- Decorative concrete floors in all bathrooms; options such as finish, color, texture, etc. are still being decided.
- Radiant heat “warm tiles” underneath concrete floors.
- Our clients purchased antique arched doors and antique parquet floors, imported from France, for the master bedroom.
- 7th C (?) Chinese double sided stone – backsplash for dining room bar which will also show through to the powder room.
- “Smart House”- Our clients chose remote control: HVAC, lighting, security, webcam and audio visual.
French Doors with Mirror Panes Imported from France
French Panel Doors Imported from France
Parquet Floors Imported from France
7th C(?) Chinese Etched Stone
While you stay tuned for updates on this waterfront whole home renovation check out How Smart Homes Work http://bit.ly/oCmO64.
Tags: Connecticut, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Improving Functionality, Norwalk, Remodeling, Renovations, Ridgefield
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Exterior Remodeling, 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 »
Friday, July 29th, 2011
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This home was originally built as a three-room saltbox in the late 1700s. It had a kitchen, a parlor and an upstairs bedroom. Folklore has it that during the Revolutionary War, the British came through the area and camped overnight in a hollow below the house. During the skirmish with the Wilton Militia, the British tried to burn the house down. Some of the beams in the basement looked like they were burned; there was definitely a fire in the house, and maybe the British started it.
The new owners of the home knew they wanted to preserve the exterior structure. All three stories of the interior, however, had fallen into disrepair. The home had been remodeled several times over its 200-plus years, leaving it with endless tiny and chopped up rooms. Most additions were added throughout the 19th century.
Titus Built was honored to have the opportunity to renovate such a historical home and has entered this project in the daily5Remodel contest.
.gif) The July contest on daily5REMODEL showcases beautiful renovations of homes at least 50 years old. Please view our project via the "featured on" button and vote. Voting is open until next Thursday, August 4, at 5 p.m. Votes for us are greatly appreciated.
The contest created many outstanding home renovation project entries. Here’s a snapshot of these projects: http://daily5remodel.com/index.php?action=snapshots
Tags: Connecticut, Contest, Daily5Remodel, Fairfield County, Historical Renovation, Improving Functionality, Ridgefield, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Historical Renovations | No Comments »
Friday, July 22nd, 2011
One of our Greenwich, CT clients came to us with a dilemma: he had approximately 10,000 sf of “formal” living space, but no rooms for his teenagers and their friends to hang out. Jeff Titus, and his team, were contracted to create design concept plans and then to remodel their large basement.
Front entry of home
Tree is located at proposed entryway to basement
Scope of Work:
- Remodel existing finished basement into Home Gym, Recreation Room and TV Room.
- Create large masonry stairway with open access to backyard, pool and sports court.
- New flooring and crown molding in existing vestibule and existing hall at bottom of curved stairs.
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Basement Renovation Construction Plans
Basement Entry Elevation Plan
Before we can begin the basement remodel, we will need to construct an exterior access from the pool area to the basement. Preparation for this renovation includes:
- Removal of existing fence to provide access to construction area at rear of house and replace fence upon completion of work.
- Protecting existing basketball court surface from construction traffic.
- Transplanting tree located near basement entry area.
- Reconfiguring sprinkler system.
- Excavating for steps, walk-out landing and new rear entry to basement level as required.
- Providing drain in walk-out landing and connect into existing drainage system.
- Removing all unneeded fill from site.
The project is underway… Sprinkler system is being reconfigured, the tree was transplanted and excavation of the entryway has commenced:
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Back view of basement renovation project
Tree and roots are being dug up to relocated
Sprinkler system to be dug up and reconfigured
View of excavation of the basement entryway
Removing unneed fill from site
Prep work for pouring concrete
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Block retaining walls being built
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Demolishing wall for access to basement
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Views of backyard: Large masonry stairway with open access to backyard, pool and sports court will be constructed at basement entryway.
Our client’s children are excited to see the commencement of the project and can’t wait to see its completion! Stay tuned for updates as we progress!
Tags: basement renovation, Connecticut, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Greenwich, Improving Functionality, Ridgefield
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Basement Remodeling | No Comments »
Tuesday, July 19th, 2011
Proposed Drawings
Outdoor spaces continue to be a trend at Titus Built. Thank you to Greg and Gina of Wilton, Connecticut. We look forward to making wonderful improvements to your home!
Exterior of home prior to renovation
Outdoor Spaces Project: Wilton, Connecticut
- Redesign deck plus add patio, pergola, outdoor fireplace and planting beds
What better way to spend time entertaining and dining, from spring through fall, than outside with family and friends. Patios, screened-in porches and pergolas with fireplaces provide extra living space for three-season entertaining outdoors.
To read more on outdoor spaces visit: 2011 Trend at Titus Built: Patios, Pergolas and Screened-in Porches http://bit.ly/eguz1R.
Stay tuned for updates on project!
Tags: Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Decks, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Greenwich, Improving Functionality, New Canaan, Patios, Pergolas, Remodeling, Ridgefield, Update Exterior, Weston, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Exterior Remodeling, Outdoor Spaces: Patios, Pergolas & Screened-in Porches, Thank You! | No Comments »
Tuesday, June 28th, 2011
When a client calls us for a home renovation project, we always look at the project, discuss the client’s objectives and provide them with a few suggestions including which path we believe is the best choice considering the client’s scope, time and budget constraints.
Scope of Work:
One of our Fairfield County, CT clients was interest in a master bathroom remodel as well as a laundry room update. They are planning on selling their home within 3 to 5 years and wanted to increase the value of their home by making it more marketable, but at the same time have as high a rate of return on their investment as possible.
Bathroom before Makeover
Solution:
Through our consultation process, we helped our client decide to do a bathroom makeover. We would not call this project a bathroom remodel because we did not demolish the entire bathroom. The existing cabinets were removed and refurbished and a new corner cabinet was fabricated and finished with open shelves and two new doors. Hardware was updated.
Bathroom after Makeover
Client’s mirrors were cut to size and installed in custom made frames. Countertops were fabricated and installed in dark Emperador honed marble.
Bathroom Tub before Makeover
Bathroom Tub after Makeover
The shower, tub surround and bathroom floor was demolished and replaced with Durango honed filled beveled Mexican Travertine. Plumbing was brought up to current code requirements.
Bathroom Shower before Makeover
Bathroom Shower after Makeover
Shower curb, shampoo niche shelf and seat was fabricated, furnished and installed in 2 cm Durango honed travertine. Shower was enclosed with full height frameless shower door and panel.
Shower Border & Shampoo Niche Shelf after Bathroom Makeover
Shower border and inside shampoo niche shelf was created by installing 2” x 2” Durango mosaic beveled limestone tiles and 4” x 12” Mandalay mosaic strips.
Laundry Room before Millwork
Laundry Room after open shelf laundry cabinet was installed
We believe our Fairfield, County, CT clients made the right decisions. Jeff and our clients were extremely pleased with their choices. The master bathroom received an “extreme makeover” without exceeding the clients’ budget and they are able to enjoy their “new” bathroom until time of sale.
Whether you are looking for a bathroom remodel, kitchen remodel or home renovation, Titus Built is here for you. Our extensive field experience and first-hand practical knowledge, coupled with the architectural design expertise of our award-winning team, bring proven professionalism to every aspect of your remodeling project, from initial concepts to final construction.
To preview some of our projects, please visit our Bathroom Remodeling Portfolio http://bit.ly/jLvnZS.
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If you’re in the Atlanta, GA area, send a “shout out” to our friends Dale & Guy at Atlanta Design & Build in Marietta, Georgia. They’ve completed some fantastic bathroom renovations as well. http://atlantadesignbuild.com/gallery
Tags: Bathroom Makeover, Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Greenwich, Improving Functionality, New Canaan, Ridgefield, West Redding, Weston, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Bathroom Remodeling, Interior Remodeling | No Comments »
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