Skip to main content

6 Reasons Why using RWC is Better than DIY

Although the temptation to take on a home improvement project by oneself is tempting, it is not always the best idea. Often it is better to hire a professional, such as those at RWC, rather than tackle an overwhelming do-it-yourself project. Keep reading to learn about why hiring RWC is the better choice.

1. Using RWC saves time

Even a simple DIY project can become problematic for a DIYer. For example, the effect of seemingly simple choices regarding the project can have huge and impactful consequences on the entire project. The professionals at RWC know the best decisions to make for any situations that arise. We can quickly assess any situation and take the most appropriate actions. There is no need for us to think and rethink every decision since our knowledge points us in the right direction.  Plus, our designers and other professional have access to the most current technological advances that enable us to complete the job in a more timely fashion.

2. RWC brings expertise to the job

RWC’s professional home designers have lots of experience in redesigning people’s homes.  One of the major functions we perform is to interpret and understand the needs of our clients and to create the perfect design plans to meet our clients’ needs. We have a wide variety of resources that DIYers do not have access to. So, the process can move much more smoothly, and the finished product will look more polished when we take on a task. Further, we complete jobs within a defined budget. We also know how to deal with legal and technical issues that come up such as working with a municipality and acquiring the proper permits, working with the necessary surveyors, hiring contractors and subcontractors, and managing the entire project to make sure everything goes as planned. These tasks take lots of hours of research and planning to be accomplished well. Most homeowners do not have enough time to complete the tasks adequately since they are also trying to juggle their own jobs and family life as well. They are also often met with resistance from municipalities and workers along the way.

3. Hiring RWC can save homeowners money

Many homeowners decide to take on major home renovation projects as a way to save money. However, this idea is flawed. Often taking on a home improvement project can end up costing the average homeowner much more money than he or she originally planned and more than if RWC had been hired in the first place. Often supply stores and subcontractors offer discounts to home design professionals. Homeowners can feel the effects of these discounts in the final price that is paid for their work. On the contrary, homeowners are required to pay full-price for supplies when they do the shopping themselves, and even small increases in cost can add up quickly.

4. RWC knows the industry

The work that needs to be done during a home improvement project is often communicated in industry-specific terms. There are also a lot of blueprints and other types of drawings and schematics. The everyday homeowner who is not familiar with industry terms and drawings will have a have a hard time understanding the technical nature of the job, which can lead to the project taking more time and costing more money than was originally planned, not to mention it is much easier for a DIYer to make mistakes because of their lack of knowledge. The professionals at RWC are well-versed in every aspect of home improvement and know how to talk with contractors and workers on a technical level. We are also experts at reading and interpreting blueprints. So the likelihood of mistakes being made is greatly reduced.

5. RWC acts as an advocate for our clients

Home improvement DIYers often run into issues with contractors. It is difficult for DIYers to advocate for themselves when they do not have the same level of knowledge and expertise than a contractor does. On the other hand, homeowners who hire RWC have a built-in advocate. We can take control of a situation and act in the best interest of the homeowner. Contractors have a much easier time working with and taking direction from a home improvement professional rather than a DIY homeowner.

6. RWC has access to other qualified industry professionals

At RWC, we have many opportunities to work with other industry professionals. This is a boon for our clients when issues arise that require other workers. We have easy access to professionals ranging from structural engineers to painters. So whatever needs a home improvement project has, we can easily find another qualified professional to fit the job.

Even though it may seem like taking on a home improvement project on your own would be a good idea, it is always better to rely on the knowledge and expertise of a professional.  Hiring a home improvement professional, like your friends at RWC, can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.

Contact RWC today to see how we can help you with your next home improvement project!


5 Lighting Tips for Modern Bathroom Decor

Lighting is one of the most important elements of a bathroom. Without adequate lighting, it can be difficult for home dwellers to get the most optimal use out of the space. It is important for lighting to go beyond being functional. The right lighting can provide both the proper mood as well as a modern and updated look. Keep reading to learn how to make the most out of lighting in a modern bathroom.

Light the sides of the mirror

When thinking about adding lighting to the bathroom, do not limit yourself to ceiling lights. One great way to add light in the lavatory is to install lights that flank the mirror. Ceiling lights provide ambient light, but a bath bar or vanity light on the side of the mirror provides great light, especially for morning routine activities such as brushing teeth, flossing, applying makeup, and shaving. Side lighting is ideal because it reduces shadows while providing adequate lighting for detailed tasks.

Use natural daylight as a guide

Generally, we look our best in natural light. Sunlight has a way of bringing out the true color tone of the face, and naturally highlights makeup.  Mimicking this idea in the bathroom is a great idea, as it will provide you with a good idea of how you will appear after you walk out the door. The first step in achieving this look is to choose white shades for the fixtures. Keep in mind that white does not need to be boring; they can be clear or frosted, or any other incarnation of a white shade. The bulb choice is also important for achieving a natural light look.

  • If you are using incandescent lights, they should be either warm or cool white or have a color temperature of 2700K and 3000K.

  • If you are using compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), make sure their Color Rendering Index (CRI) is at least 90. This measurement will assure they are displaying color, in the same way natural light does. The color temperature of the CFL should also be between 2700K and 3000K.

  • If you are using light emitting diode lights (LEDs,) you need to pay close attention to their brightness, as you do not want to choose a bulb that is too bright. As with the other types of bulbs, the color temperature should be between 2700K and 3000K and have a CRI of at least 90.

Layer the lighting

Ideally, the lighting in the bathroom needs to adjustable, so it provides the right amount of light whether you are getting ready for work in the morning or taking a relaxing soak in the tub in the evening.

One way to guarantee that there will always be an appropriate level of light is to install a dimmer. Using a dimmer will always give you the power to control exactly how much light is flowing into the area. It used to be that dimmers were only available for incandescent lights. However that is no longer the case. Dimmers can be installed and used even with energy-saving CFLs and LEDs.

Another way to adjust the amount of light in a room is to choose decorative fixtures for the ceiling light. Small chandeliers and semi-flush ceiling lights are both great ways to set the mood in a room.

Use modern light fixtures

Light fixtures can often be overlooked. In fact, many people just continue to use whatever the previous owner of a house had installed. Even homeowners who designed a bathroom from scratch do not generally change their light fixtures. The result ends up being a dated look that is still present long after the fashion has gone out of style. Simply updating the lighting fixtures can give new life to a tired-looking bathroom. Changing out light sconces is an easy and affordable change that can make a big difference. In the past, sconces could only be found in ultra-traditional styles. That is no longer the case. Sconces have become more sleek and modernized. Many sconces are available in modern styles such as blown glass or stainless steel designs that fit with most modern decors. Another great fixture choice for a modern bathroom is pendant lighting. These lights give a soft, updated look to any bathroom.

Set the mood

The right lighting choice can set the entire mood for a room. It can turn a simple bathroom into a relaxing spa. Consider placing some dramatic lighting over the bathtub. A small antique chandelier can turn an ordinary bathtub into a haven to escape to at the end of a stressful day.

The bathroom is one of the most-used rooms in a home. It is important that it is adequately lit for both utilization and style. Take some time to consider how the bathroom should be lit as well as how you want the finished project to look.

If you need advice on how to add modern lighting to your bathroom, contact RWC, our friendly and qualified staff can help give you the modern bathroom of your dreams.


How to Choose the Perfect Windows for your Home

Windows are an important feature of any home. Not only do they provide a clear view of the outdoors from the inside, they add beauty and functionality as well. Choosing the right windows can be the difference between having a home that looks plain and boring and having a home that is the envy of the neighborhood. Keep reading to find out about some unique and interesting window ideas for your home.

Entry door windows

Anyone entering a home notices the entryway first. So, it provides the first impression for everyone who walks through the door.  Having windows along the top and sides of a door gives a polished yet welcoming look to the area.  Having windows in the entryway also provides lighting, views, and architectural character. Other benefits of having an entryway full of windows are that it adds drama to the area as well as providing a transition from the exterior of the house to the interior of the home.

Bay windows

Bay windows can add a dramatic effect to a home.  They can open up a room and give the illusion of extra space. They let in lots of natural light while providing stunning views at the same time. They are also ideal for providing ventilation to the inside since they can open up in different directions to create a soothing cross-breeze. Bay windows also provide the opportunity to have cozy window seats and extra storage space.

Dormer windows

Dormer windows are a great addition to houses that features an extensive block of roofing. Their design can break up the large blocks of roofing to add symmetry and balance to the house. Dormer windows can also bring attention to certain areas of the façade as well as add height and light to the interior of the home. Since there is more headspace in the interior of the home, it makes movement within the home easier. Dormer windows also provide interior ventilation, which is particularly beneficial for homes that do not have air conditioning. Dormer windows also come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and styles making it easy to create a unique appearance to the home.  

Skylights and high windows

Skylights and other types of high windows are a great addition to a home because they add a significant amount of natural light without taking up lots of wall space or hindering the privacy of those who live in the home. Since so much natural light can be brought in, these lights can help the homeowner save money on electricity costs since there is less need for artificial light usage.  Skylights are also a great medium for showing off the striking pitch of a ceiling. They can also highlight a beautiful outdoor area that surrounds a home and bring those who dwell in the home closer to nature. Skylights that can be opened can provide an extreme amount of ventilation as well.

Window walls

Having an entire wall filled with windows can create an interesting and dramatic effect in any room in the house. Ceiling to floor windows will not only provide exquisite views it will fill the room with bright light. The light that streams in from window walls helps to reduce stress, depression, and pain. Window walls also make the room open and airy while providing a connection to the outdoors. The combination of trimwork and glass creates a unique look that combines traditional designs with modern touches.

Stained glass

Adding stained glass to a window is a creative and unique way to bring character and color into a room. One of the best features of a stained glass window is that it allows in light without the homeowner needing to sacrifice privacy.

Energy-efficient windows

Installing energy-efficient windows in the home is a great cost-saving investment because they can greatly decrease utility costs. Energy-efficient windows come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles so they can go just about any place in the home. They help to create a more comfortable internal temperature of the home, and there is even a special coating on these windows that prevents the harmful rays of the sun from penetrating them and ruining items inside the house. Further, these windows are not difficult to find. They are available from all of the major window manufacturers and can easily be found anyplace windows are sold.

Windows are a necessity for a home but that does not mean they need to be plain and boring. There are many ways windows can enhance both the exterior and interior of a home. If you are looking to add some personality and character to your home with new windows, RWC can help you.  We have a wide variety of windows to choose from, and we provide full-service installation.

Contact us today and see how we can help make your house look sensational!


8 Best Ways to Utilize your Kitchen Space

A kitchen can be made or broken by its functionality. Homeowners who do not make good use of the space they have in the kitchen are doomed to be frustrated by it every day. Read below to discover some great ways to make the most of your kitchen space, regardless of its size.

1. Utilize corner space

The corners in a kitchen can easily become wasted space. Corners can also provide solutions for creating usable space. Some ways to make corners work for you include:

  • Corner sinks are great ideas, especially in smaller kitchens. Corner sinks free up counter space while improving the aesthetics of the whole room.

  • A corner range can help save space.

  • Installing floating shelves can create extra storage space.

  • Creating a corner pantry can turn a previously unused corner into a space that is used every day.

  • Creating a corner eating area can freshen up an unused corner.

  • Corners are also great places to add some odd-shaped storage options. There are several cabinets that are specifically designed for corner spaces.

2. Use a pot rack

Don’t discount using the ceiling to create space in a kitchen. Hanging a pot rack can open up lots of cabinet space that can be used for other items. Hanging a pot rack will put your most-used pots and pans where they are easily accessible, which will save time as well as space. Also, using a pot rack will make it easy to see the cooking vessels, so it is easy to find just the right tool for whatever job needs to be done.

3. Display serving pieces

One of the biggest complaints people have about their kitchens is a lack of storage space. Solve that issue by not storing serving pieces. Save the cabinet space for cookware, bakeware, and items that need to be stowed away. But, keep your beautiful serving pieces out in the open where they can be enjoyed by everyone. Cookbooks can be displayed as well. Also, add a few green plants to the area to add some color and visual interest.

4. Use the inside doors of cabinets

Part of utilizing the space in a kitchen in the best possible way is to think outside the box. The inside of a cabinet door can provide the backdrop for many helpful tricks to better utilize kitchen space.

  • Attach a corkboard or magnetic board to the inside of a cabinet to create a place to hang messages or grocery lists.

  • Attach a few wooden strips with some hooks to store measuring cups.

  • Attach a chalkboard for writing reminders, measuring equivalents, or even recipes.

  • Attach a pegboard to hang kitchen utensils or pots and pans.

5. Install rolling shelves

The backs of cabinets can be scary places where kitchen paraphernalia of all kinds go to get lost. Installing some simple rolling shelves can solve that problem. Rolling shelves are easy to find at big box stores and are fairly easy to install. This type of shelving is great because they sit on casters that fit into tracks. Since the shelves roll out, even the stuff that is stored way in the back of the cabinet can be brought to the forefront when it is needed.

6. Use wall space

Walls are another overlooked space in the kitchen. Take a look at spaces that look wasted or unusable. Install some shelves in those spaces and use it to store objects such as glasses or use them to display vases or pretty serving ware. You will beautify the space as well as gain additional cabinet space.

7. Use hooks

It is amazing how helpful hooks can be. Simply installing hooks can create a lot of space that would otherwise be lost. Hooks can house plastic or metal baskets that can be used to hold small but necessary items such as sponges or spices. Cleverly hidden hooks that are placed on the inside of the cabinet beneath the sink can store dishwashing gloves. Larger hooks can be used to hang spoons and spatulas. Hooks are easy to install, too.  Some hooks require a small screw to hang it on the wall, but many just adhere to a surface by exposing a sticky strip on its back.

8. Make the island work for you

Islands are great additions to a kitchen. They provide extra counter space, which can be a saving grace in many kitchens. However, islands can do so much more. Islands that include a sink provide an extra water source in the kitchen. Islands can also be used for storing cookbooks or other items that need to be used in the kitchen.

A kitchen that makes good use of its space can be a homeowner’s dream.

If you are in the West Caldwell, New Jersey area and need help making optimal use of your kitchen space, contact RWC to find out how we can help you.

 


5 Ways your Home can Improve your Mood Instantly

Redecorating a room is always a great idea for giving a facelift to an old and tired space. But, it has other benefits as well. Different design elements can also have a profound effect on your mood. Design elements such as paint color can literally affect how you feel. Following are just a few examples of how home décor can affect the mental and emotional well-being of the inhabitants of a home.

1. Sun exposure

Although sun exposure isn’t a design element in itself, the amount of sun exposure the interior of a house receives can be greatly dependent on the location of design elements within the rooms of the home. Exposure to the sun can be a positive factor in brightening one’s mood. In fact, sunlight is a known factor in reducing depression in people. The natural sunlight that streams into a room contains endorphins and serotonin, both which positively affect a person’s mood. It’s not hard to increase the natural light in a room.

One trick is to decorate with large mirrors that reflect light. There is a multitude of decorative mirrors available on the market, so any homeowner should have an easy time finding mirrors that fit into their existing décor.

Window treatments are also an important factor for increasing natural light. Remove heavy drapes that can absorb sunlight and replace them with light and airy curtains that allow sunlight to enter the room. If you still desire some privacy, consider adding some shutters to the windows, as they can be easily controlled by you or anyone else in the home.

2. Color your world

Painting in an inexpensive and relatively quick way to change the look of a room. The colors you choose to paint the walls of your house are important factors in determining mood. In the bedroom, go with a favorite color, preferably one that is vibrant. If it needs to be toned down a bit, consider painting only a few of the walls, or perhaps, just the upper or lower halves of them. Don’t forget to add some accent pieces in complementary colors to enhance your add even more. Replace boring old bedspreads and sheets with bright new ones that match the wall color. Also, look for lamps, pillows, and blankets to complete the look.

Another way to use color to boost mood is to choose soothing colors that replicate the effect of sunlight. These colors can soften the appearance of the walls and will make it feel like the sun is shining in the room, even when it isn’t. Earth tones and soft blues work well for this effect.

3. Liven it up

There are few elements that can brighten up a mood like a living creature. So, it stands to reason that having living, thriving plants as part of a home décor can provide an emotional boost. Plants provide both light and energy to wherever they are. There is just something about bringing the outdoors inside that is calming and soothing. Having plants in the house can give you the feeling of the warmth and comfort of spring and summer, even during the colder months. Studies have shown that houseplants can lower anxiety levels, reduce fatigue, and boost mood. Flowering plants help to bring a pop of color that helps to motivate individuals as well as improve mood. In addition to having plants inside the home, try to arrange a significant amount of time in rooms that have views of nature. If possible, arrange furniture so you are looking over forestry or water.

4. A better life through better light

Proper indoor lighting can often be overlooked, but it is an important element in improving your mood. Inadequately lit rooms can make you feel closed in and sequestered. Dim light can contribute to foul moods and depression, so it is important to make sure every room is adequately lit. Make sure there is plenty of overhead light as well as light that emits from floor and table lamps. Not only will you be able to see more effectively, it will provide a serene and comforting feeling that will result in an improved state of mind.

5. Accessorize

Just like wearing jewelry can perk us up, home accessories can help to bring cheer inside the home. Adorning a home with fun accent pieces such as vases and picture frames can not only turn a dull room into a haven, it can bring a smile to your face as well. Choose accessories for the home that are fun and bring a smile to your face. There are so many options to choose from; you can’t go wrong.

Everyone’s home should be their safe haven. It is important to feel happy whenever you are there. Making a few easy alterations to the decor can go a long way in helping you achieve an improved mood whenever you look around your home.

For more ideas and for a free design consultation, give us a call at 973-227-7123, or simply visit our West Caldwell, NJ showroom!

RWC - "Relieving Home Improvement Stress Since 1959".


Project Spotlight - Pompton Plains Kitchen Renovation

This kitchen renovation in Pompton Plains was a blast - literally. We had to knock out the walls and remove the existing patio doors. By doing this, we could build a wall and add a cabinet. We put cabinets underneath to give the kitchen a crisp and beautiful space.

RWC’s, Joe Giampapa, designed the layout. You can see in the pictures below how we combined Joe's vision with the wishes of the homeowners and the talent of RWC's staff to come up with an incredible finished product.

Enjoy!

blueprint 1.jpg

screenshot-docs.google.com 2015-06-01 10-25-44.png

screenshot-www.rwcnj.com 2015-06-01 10-44-10.png

 

screenshot-www.rwcnj.com 2015-06-01 10-43-03.png

 

screenshot-www.rwcnj.com 2015-06-01 10-43-42.png

If you like what you see or just want to talk about the opportunities available to you for renovating your bathroom or kitchen, give us a call at 973-227-7123 for a free consultation or just visit our full showroom to take a tour and talk to one of our professionals!

7 Ways to Make Small Bathrooms Appear Larger

Having a small bathroom can be frustrating and can really cramp your style. But, fear not, there are ways to make your small bathroom appear larger. Read below to see how to do it without having to use a sledgehammer.

Tile all the way up

One way on how to make a bathroom look bigger is to make wise use of the tiles in the shower area.  Having them go all the way up to the ceiling will give the illusion of more space. Often a tile-layer will stop an inch below the ceiling and finish the area off with an edge. However, this practice creates an unnecessary transition in materials that accentuates the lack of space. Further, this procedure can cost more than simply laying the tile all the way up to the ceiling.

Choose the right tiles

Small subway tiles are great, and they have their place. But, it is not in a tiny bathroom. Small tiles require lots of grout lines that break up space and make a room look smaller, which is the opposite effect you want in a small bathroom. A better option is to use bigger tiles that require a minimal amount of grout lines. Using bigger tiles will create one long line that extends the entire wall, which will give the illusion of more room. Try to stick with the same tiles throughout the room as well to give it a feeling of unity and cohesiveness that will exude a feeling of spaciousness.

Use clear glass in the shower

Having a clear glass door on the shower will also create the illusion of additional space because it will allow extra light to come in. Using a textured door will give the appearance of an additional wall that makes the small space appear even smaller.

Use recessed cabinetry and shelving

Cabinets and shelves that protrude into the room can take up a lot of space. But, by recessing them into the wall extra space is created. Although the few inches that are gained might not seem like a lot, in theory, when it is put into practice, they make all the difference in the world. Creating recessed cabinetry and shelving is most easily done during an initial build. In order to retrofit them, walls will need to be reframed. But, for the space you will gain, it is worth the effort.

Install a pedestal sink

Pedestal sinks have far less bulk than a traditional vanity does. Removing an old bulky vanity and having a new pedestal sink go in its place will open up a lot of space in a small bathroom. Also, a pedestal sink or two can create a feeling of luxury that a small bathroom often lacks. Adding a tall, skinny cabinet behind a pedestal sink will help you replace the lost storage space you had with a traditional vanity without taking up too much space.

Swap out the door

Standard hinged doors take up an amazing amount of space. They require a lot of room to swing back and forth. Replacing hinged doors with pocket or folding doors is a great idea that will make a small bathroom appear larger. Pocket doors tuck nicely into the wall where they are safely out of the way and not taking up valuable space. Also, when they are open, they can add an element of depth to the bathroom. Similarly, folding doors can make a small bathroom seem more spacious, as they require less room to operate than a hinged door does. This is a key to small bathroom remodeling.

Add light

Light is a necessity when it comes to adding space to a room. Adding artificial light by adding accent lighting and strategically placing mirrors is an easy way to add more light to a small bathroom. The light that bounces off of mirrors and other shiny objects will add dimension and scale to the room. Bringing in natural light is even better than the artificial variety. The presence of natural light brings a feeling of warmth and comfort to even the smallest spaces. Adding a large window or a skylight to a small bathroom can bring in an extraordinary amount of light and make it look like it is fit for a king.

Being stuck with a small bathroom does not have to be a death sentence. Using some tricks and techniques and making some small structural changes can make even the smallest of bathrooms objects of envy. Creating a bathroom with the illusion of space is best done with the assistance of a professional, like the folks at RWC Windows and Doors. We have been a family owned and operated business for three generations. We are dedicated to providing our customers with a unique home improvement experience. Contact us today to see how we can serve you!


Project Spotlight - Mendham, NJ Bathroom Renovation

Remodeling this bathroom was almost a two-in-one job. The adjacent rooms were together yet separate, forming a unique double bathroom - each serving its own purpose - yet one was unable to function as a full bathroom without the other. A fun challenge for the RWC team!

One room had the vanity which you can see below and also a shower enclosure (which you can't view in this picture) but take a look at the before shot so you can get an idea of what we were dealing with:

 

before 3 .jpg

 

The other room had a drop in tub and make up station which you can view in the photo below:

 

before 2.jpg

before 1.jpg

 

Although the layout is quite similar in the end result, the rooms look completely different. Here are several pictures of how the double bathroom looked after pouring our blood sweat and tears into it and we couldn't be happier.

If you like what you see or just want to talk about the opportunities available to you for renovating your bathroom or kitchen, give us a call at 973-227-7123 for a free consultation or just visit our full showroom to take a tour and talk to one of our professionals!

 

after 4.jpg

after 3.jpg

after 2 .jpg

after 1 .jpg

 


Great Ideas for Modern Kitchen Renovations

There’s no doubting that the kitchen is the most used room in a house. Everyone gathers there for meals, busy parents prepare meals there, and for some reason, during parties, it’s where crowds love to congregate and socialize. The kitchen gets so much use, so it’s easy for it to get stale over time. When that happens, a new kitchen renovation can be the answer to any homeowner’s dreams. Creating an updated, modern kitchen can be fun and exciting, but many people aren’t sure where to start with such a large project. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

Pure white

White kitchens are currently all the rage. Although many people associate the color white with starkness and boredom, a white kitchen with just the right accents exudes subtle class and style. In order to achieve this look, choose white cabinetry with brushed silver hardware. A large island in the center of an open-design kitchen should have a white countertop made of a higher-end material such as quartz. But, the bottom of it should bring a pop of color to the room. Try choosing a distressed shade in the color palette with which you chose. Use shades of that same accent color on the walls as well. Finally, make sure the light fixtures are all pure white. The white counters and cabinets will stand out, and the soft pops of color will give just the right amount of personality to the room.

No-nonsense Whimsy

For those looking for a kitchen with a little more oomph than a white kitchen, dark wood grain cabinetry is timeless and never goes out of style. Choose updated, sleek hardware to complement the cabinets. Stainless steel appliances provide a professional, no-nonsense look. Add some color to the kitchen by choosing brightly colored tiles for the backsplash. Choosing a bright chartreuse shows visitors that although you’re serious about your cooking, you have a fun side, too.

It’s all about the Backsplash

If you’re trying to be more budget conscious and sticking with your old oak cabinets and granite countertops, treat yourself to a new, modern kitchen faucet. Faucets have come a long way in the past few years. Pick something bold, but still functional.  It’s quite likely that the backsplash is the decorating feature you can have the most fun with. Feel free to go crazy with it. Choose medium-sized tiles in an array of colors. You can choose two or three shades of the same color and one contrasting color that makes a bold statement. Then, have them arranged however you like, to create your own unique statement.

Modern chic

For an edgier look, go ultra-modern in the kitchen; have a breakfast bar fashioned in the middle of the kitchen. Choose a sturdy granite or quartz top that provides plenty of room, plus a water source on one side. On the outside, place some bar stools. Try some with a triangular leg stand and a copper seat, to offset the more neutral tones in the rest of the kitchen. Go with light colored tiles that give the appearance of brick and top it off with some open shelving to house everyday items that will need to be reached for often.

Let there be Light

It has likely never been said that a kitchen had too much light. It’s always a good idea to bring more light into a kitchen. One way to do so is by utilizing the space overhead. If there aren’t rooms over the kitchen, consider having some beautiful skylights installed. No matter the size or shape of the kitchen, bringing in extra light from above will always improve the space. Choose some modern, updated designs with several shorter windows separated by wooden beams.

Good things come in small packages

Homeowners who have smaller kitchens are not exempt from having an updated and modern kitchen. The key to updating a small kitchen is to use light colors and finding creative ways to make space. Smaller kitchens are the perfect location for white or light wood cabinetry. Also, using open shelving at the end of a breakfast bar can create the perfect nook to house cookbooks. Consider having a peninsula installed, since having a large island is likely out of the question. Installing glass-front cabinetry can give the illusion of space, plus it’s a nice way to highlight beautiful china.

Kitchens come in all shapes and sizes. Updating and modernizing kitchens isn’t confined to any particular type or style of kitchen.

Homeowners in New Jersey who are looking to give their kitchen a facelift, should contact RWC. Our helpful staff can help give you the kitchen you’ve been dreaming of. We’ve been relieving home improvement stress since 1959!


Project Spotlight - West Orange, NJ Bathroom Renovation

With this bathroom renovation we headed out to West Orange, New Jersey to do a full remodel. We have a bunch of pictures to show you so let’s take a look from beginning to end so you can see the full job as it unfolded and developed into the beautiful finished product.

First we’ll start with the before pictures so you can get an idea of the space.

IMG_7914.JPG

IMG_7922.JPG

It may not look like much, but these blue walls and spackle are about to get real interesting….

IMG_0881.JPG

IMG_0883.JPG

IMG_0886.JPG

The current layout was not conducive to the plans for the finished product, so we changed the layout. Why? To accept a bathtub as well as a shower enclosure. You can see it here.

PA060065 (2).JPG

PA060066 (2).JPG

We created a different vanity layout as well. The wall of the vanity is also covered in accent tile.

PA060063 (2).JPG

If you like what you see, that’s great! We like it too and would love to make it happen for your bathroom. Come on in and see us for a free design consultation where our friendly staff will treat you like family and take you on a tour of our full showroom. Or you can give us a call at 973-227-7123.

Feel free to visit our website for a full list of products and services!


Privacy Preference Center