Bay Area Home Remodeling Including Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling in Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Palo Alto ...

07 Mar / 2023

What’s New in the Kitchen?

March 2023

Beautiful, natural stone slabs have been popular as kitchen countertops for a while. They are now dominating backsplashes from the countertop to the ceiling, cascading to the floor in waterfall edges and wrapping around islands. Natural stone is unique and beautiful and enhances these spaces as the basic neutrals they replace never could. We especially love using natural stone on the kitchen island with a waterfall edge. The waterfall edge wraps the granite or marble over the edge of the island to the floor – making your kitchen look incredibly modern.

Move over all-white kitchens! Kitchens with bold colors are becoming more popular. Dark blue or green cabinets with a complementary backsplash are trending right now. Repainting your island in a bold color can be a way to update your kitchen without remodeling the whole room. Hardware, plumbing fixtures, and artwork used in kitchens are getting bigger and brighter. Black and gold finishes are currently popular choices. However, we offer a caution — gold and black have not proven to be durable finishes for fixtures in heavily-used often wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms — and we recommend you select chrome or stainless finishes in these areas.

Lastly, there is a new kitchen trend that we do not believe will last – removing the highly functional kitchen island in place of a large dining table or something similar. Kitchen islands have been popular for well over a decade because they are so useful. Unsurprisingly, some people want to try something new, but we do not think this trend will last.

Does your kitchen need an update? We are here to help! Call us to discuss your wants and needs, and we will help you create a plan to give you the kitchen you dream of.

08 Feb / 2023

Remodeling Ideas for Empty Nesters

February 2023

Painting, pottery, sewing, and crafting are all popular hobbies to take on once the kids are out of the house, and now you’ll have plenty of space to create your next project.

If the room you want to remodel has carpet installed, it’s a good idea to remove it in favor of something easier to clean. Water-resistant ceramic or porcelain tiles are excellent options and come in almost any color or pattern you can imagine.

Whatever hobby you choose, you will need bright, overhead lighting. Recessed lighting is a good option for a craft room; you can add as many lights as you think are necessary and include a dimmer to control the amount of light you need for each activity. You could also install a light/ceiling fan combination to help with temperature control and ventilation.

A long countertop with cabinets and shelves will help you keep your supplies in order and out of sight when not in use. We can help you design and install custom or modular cabinetry to meet your shelving and storage needs, and we work with companies such as Valet Custom Cabinets and Closets for larger projects.

Remote work is here to stay. If your workspace consists of a laptop at your dining table, we can help you upgrade that; since you now have the space, turn it into a home office.

First, install a hardwood floor and paint the room a warm, soothing blue, gray, or peach. These colors have proven to boost creativity and reduce stress. You’ll also need desk space. This should have enough space to hold your computer, keyboard, and any files or paperwork you may need to reference throughout your day. Next, some built-in cabinets and shelves will help you stay organized and provide room for a printer, reference materials, and display space for photos.

Installing a skylight or oversized windows to optimize natural light will be a great mood booster during your workday and should not be overlooked.

Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mood. If having workout equipment nearby will help prompt your ability to get a workout in on busy days, turn a spare bedroom into a private workout spa.

Install rubberized flooring to reduce noise and impact from weights and equipment. You’ll also want full-length mirrors to check out your form. If you like music while working out, install a surround sound system and a TV for treadmill or exercise biking time. And make sure you include a place to stretch. If you have the space, you may even want to add a spa, steam room, or sauna to relax and revitalize at the end of the day.

What ideas do you have for home now that you’re an empty nester? Contact us to discuss how we can help transform the extra rooms in your home into functional and enjoyable spaces.

10 Jan / 2023

Top Design Trends For 2023

January 2023

If you’re embarking on a home renovation in the new year and planning your overall design scheme, you may have been surprised by the latest trends. The market is leaving all-white and greige spaces in 2022 and entering a more dramatic era, thank God.

Remember, your home doesn’t have to be “trendy.” It should be a reflection of what makes you feel comfortable. But, if you are interested in learning more about what is “in” for the new year, here are some top trends and ways to incorporate them into your home remodel.

Creating spaces that bring the outdoors in has been a big trend for the last few years. This trend extends beyond adding plants and greenery to your décor. It also relates to the materials you use.

In the bathroom, it’s about pairing natural materials together to create a mismatched yet cohesive space. Using natural stone for your flooring and pebble tile in your shower will create a calming space – add a rain shower to make it feel even more peaceful. Natural light is also essential, so consider adding a large window or skylight to your design. Finish off the trend with a natural wood vanity, and your bathroom will be an up-to-date, spa-like oasis.

A more surprising color trend we are seeing is the use of pastels in the home. You have to be careful with how and where you incorporate them into your design, so your room doesn’t end up looking like a baby’s nursery.

With the proper execution, pastels will create a tranquil yet interesting space. One great place to add pastels is to your bathroom. Pastel-colored geometric tiled floors will add a ton of character to a bathroom space without being too “loud.”

You could also use pastel tiles in the shower. We like glass mosaics in light pink or soft seafoam greens. This will give your shower a lovely, elegant look.

Design trends suggest that stark white kitchens are phasing out. Dark spaces with abundant natural light are a new and very different trend. This translates into hardwood or concrete floors and dark cabinets– think navy blue, green, or black, paired with wood or dark stone countertops. The wall color should match the cabinets. We know this is a significant difference from recent popular kitchen designs. But, if this look appeals to you, it can be amazing – as long as your design emphasizes natural light to offset the dark finishes.

What do you think about the 2023 trends? Do they sound like something you could see in your home? Regardless of the trends, the essential criteria in your design choices are that they make your home comfortable, functional, and one you love.

Please contact us if you’re planning a remodel in the new year. Whether you’re interested in a new trend or have something else in mind, we can help you make the best choices for you and your home.

09 Nov / 2022

Take you Closet to the Next Level

Designing and building your closet means including cabinets and shelving unique to your needs and your wardrobe. If you want everything kept out of sight, built-in cabinets with doors and drawers will be essential. High-quality cabinets can be the puzzle piece that transforms a regular closet into a luxurious space in your home.

For many people, viewing their clothing helps them decide what to wear. We can create open-concept storage with specific areas for items such as shoes, handbags, jewelry, and accessories. A closet with ample storage for all your clothing items is key to staying organized and having calm, stress-free mornings.

There are quite a few options for closet lighting, and using more than one type is optimal. You could use recessed lighting to light the room from above combined with LED strip lighting anywhere that could benefit from more light. Some examples could be clothing racks or shelves. You could also add a window or two to give the closet natural light and real-time information about the weather. A skylight could also be your solution to adding natural light, with the bonus that they do not take up closet wall space.

Lastly, a chandelier is a must-have in a luxurious closet for some people. A prominent hanging light fixture reflecting your style will be the finishing touch that brings your closet to life.

18 Oct / 2022

Fireplace Ideas to Add Style to Your Home

October 2022

It’s that time of year again. The weather is getting colder, and soon we’ll be spending more time indoors.

Whether you’re snuggled up watching a movie or wanting to add ambiance to your home, a fireplace provides cold-weather comfort. Fireplaces have been used for thousands of years, beginning in the Stone Age as simple dug-out holes; they became a necessity, serving as the home’s primary heat source and hub, and were relied on for cooking. In the 21st century, fireplaces still serve as a source of heat and continue to bring families together, yet have transitioned into more of a luxury in modern-day homes.

And from a design standpoint, there are plenty of ways you can make a statement with your fireplace that reflects your style and creates a focal point in any room. If you’d like to add a fireplace to your home or spruce up an existing one, here are some fireplace trends to inspire you.

Frameless fireplaces look best in homes with a modern, high-end style. They are an excellent addition to a living room or a bathroom as a surprise finishing touch.

Gas fireplaces are still the best option for California because you can be easily added to an existing space. However, like wood fireplaces, gas fireplaces (and cooktops and ranges) may be banned in the near future in California due to environmental concerns.

What type of fireplace would work best in your home? If you aren’t sure, we can help you decide. Give us a call so we can help you choose where your fireplace should go and what style would best compliment your home.

19 Sep / 2022

Bathroom Remodel Trends You Will Love

September 2022

One of the newest trends in bathroom design is the wet room. A wet room is a space constructed with materials designed to get wet and often combines the shower and tub into one open and luxurious area—an excellent idea for those with limited space. Some wet rooms include a shower space and a freestanding tub in a glass enclosure separate from the sink and toilet areas.

We know what you’re thinking—doesn’t everything get wet? Don’t worry. Wet rooms have a sloped floor, so water will be guided to a drain and not get left standing on the floor. Since the space is more open and there are fewer nooks and crannies, they can be easier to clean. And many of the new trends are connected to universal design principles. Houzz reported that more than half of bathroom renovations are completed to address needs specific to groups like aging family members, young children, or people with disabilities.

Regarding bathroom color schemes, neutral, earthy tones are becoming more popular. Off-white or clay tiles in the shower space and wood accents are trendy, as are wood and natural tones. A clean white countertop, coupled with neutral tones, looks wonderful. To add an element of nature to the neutral bathroom, many homeowners include greenery into their design by including shelves or deep window sills on which to put potted plants, or for an over-the-top idea, simply opening their bathroom up to a private outside garden room.

Regardless of the style you choose, your remodeled bathroom needs some smart upgrades. Home technology has come a long way in the last few years, so while planning your bathroom remodel, make sure to include some of these upgraded features:

Touchless faucets – these are becoming common in the home
Voice-activated showers – you can turn on the water with a voice command and set the water temperature too
Self-cleaning and self-deodorizing toilets
Interactive LED mirrors that can display your email, traffic reports, the weather, or your smart home controls

09 Aug / 2022

These Incredible Home Upgrades Are Out of Sight, Literally

August 2022

When it comes to remodeling, most of us think of the cosmetic upgrades that will make our homes look beautiful and reflect our tastes. You may be dreaming of marble countertops, a huge walk-in shower, or floor-to-ceiling windows, but did you know some upgrades can’t be seen that you may like just as much? Hidden upgrades may not be necessary, but once you include them in your home, it will be hard to do without them. These are some of our favorite hidden home upgrades to consider for your home renovation:

Like heated flooring, heated countertops are a feature you didn’t know you needed. Countertop heating mats are usually only installed in specific locations in the kitchen since the mats aren’t large enough to cover the entire countertop. Mats will heat the counter to a comfortable temperature, so it does not feel cold.

Heated countertops will keep your morning coffee warm longer and make it more comfortable to place your hands or arms on the counters. They are especially beneficial for people who have arthritis or joint pain.

If vacuuming is one of your least favorite chores, consider installing a central vacuum system. Central vacuums are permanently installed, and suction dust and dirt into the main collection tank. Rather than moving a heavy vacuum throughout your home, you take just the hose to one of many outlets installed in convenient locations. Another fantastic option for central vacuum systems is a baseboard or under-cabinet dust pan – especially in the kitchen. With the touch of your foot, it suctions dirt and debris into the collection tank. Many homeowners with central vacuum systems report that their allergies had improved as the system picks up more dust and allergens than regular vacuums.

A whole house fan pulls air in from open windows and exhausts it through the attic and/or roof. It provides attic ventilation in addition to cooling your house. Whole house fans reduce the need for air conditioning, lower energy costs, and improve your home’s air quality. With the active ventilation of a whole house fan, the powerful breeze from the windows allows homeowners to feel 5 to 10 degrees cooler within seconds of turning on the fan.

When going to bed, especially in a two-story house, during summer, it can be sweltering and uncomfortable. You can direct cooling air into your bedroom by opening a window across your bed and turning on your whole house fan. A whole house fan can also quickly remove unpleasant cooking or pet odors and help rapidly dry newly-cleaned floors and carpeting.

What other upgrades would you like in your home? We have ideas! Call us to discuss all the features you’d like to see – and some that you can’t – when we plan your home remodel.

12 Jul / 2022

Guide to Kitchen Sinks

July 2022

The material you choose for your kitchen sink plays a vital role in the sink’s maintenance and design style. These are some of the most commonly used kitchen sink materials:

Stainless Steel – The stainless-steel sink has been a long-time staple in the kitchen. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and heat resistant.

Cast Iron – Another popular choice is the cast iron sink. The enamel coating on cast iron sinks comes in various colors and styles, each long-lasting and easy to maintain. Metal cookware can leave “scratch” marks on the surface which can be removed with non-abrasive cleaners.

Granite Composite – If you’re looking for a sink that looks modern and is also durable and stain-resistant, consider a granite composite sink. Manufactured using a mix of granite stone dust and acrylic resins, granite composite sinks tend to be heavier than other kitchen sinks, which may eliminate some mounting style choices.

Fireclay – Fireclay sinks look the same as cast iron sinks but are made from clay and glaze fused at very high temperatures. Fireclay is an excellent material choice for a farmhouse sink. Metal cookware and grease can leave marks or stains on the sink that can be removed with non-abrasive cleaners.

The number of basins in your sink is something else you should consider when choosing a kitchen sink— based on your personal preference as well as the style of your kitchen.

Single-Basin – For a farmhouse style or industrial style kitchen, a single basin kitchen sink is the way to go. One large bowl allows more space for soaking large items they frequently use.

Double-Basin – Considered the traditional style, double basin sinks have two bowls of equal size and depth. This style allows for multitasking. You can soak potatoes on one side while filling up a pot on the other or defrost dinner items on one side and clean the breakfast dishes simultaneously.

Triple-Basin or Double Plus Drainboard – Triple-basin sinks used to be the most sought-after sinks. They had two-large basins plus a small one in the middle for the garbage disposer. They’re not so common anymore. There are also sinks with a drainboard built-in.

15 Jun / 2022

How to Brighten the Dark Spaces in Your Home

June 2022

The best way to add more light to a dark space is to add one or more windows or french doors. The larger the windows or doors, the better. While this may sound like a huge undertaking, it may not be as difficult as you think. If adding a window or door is not practical, consider adding clerestory windows higher up on the wall, allowing natural light to enter without disturbing your privacy.

You could also swap out interior doors for french doors to allow light to flow throughout the house. Adding a transom window above an interior or exterior door is also an option.

04 May / 2022

Is Your Home Ready for Outdoor Living?

May 2022

You will want a shaded area as part of your overall outdoor plan to enjoy sunny days comfortably without risking a sunburn. You could put up umbrellas around the deck and seating areas or opt for sunshades that can be easily installed when needed and removed and stored in the winter months. Sunshades can be found at home improvement stores, garden centers, and online, and they come in various shapes and sizes. A trellis, pergola, or covered deck creates a more permanent shade solution and provides ambiance to your outdoor area.

A ceiling fan in your outdoor space will help you enjoy your deck or patio, even when the air is hot and humid. If you have a covered patio or pergola, you can install a ceiling fan to get air circulating when needed. If not, you can use stand-alone fans to help keep cool. Another option is to add misters to use on sweltering days.

Additionally, consider adding outdoor heaters so you can use your outdoor area on cool evenings.

There’s still time to get your backyard summer and barbecue ready. Give us a call so we can put together a plan and start building your outdoor spaces.

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HAMMERSCHMIDT CONSTRUCTION, INC. 1574 Country Club Drive
Los Altos, CA 94024

T: 650 948-4200
F: 650 948-5222
E: info@hammerschmidtinc.com

Areas We Serve

Award Winning Design Build remodeling contractors for the San Francisco Bay Area with projects in Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Palo Alto, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, San Jose, Campbell, Woodside, La Honda, Willow Glen, and Atherton.