Note from Paula:
Bill and Becky Kulesza have been building custom homes in San Antonio for over 20 years.  Bill is the builder, and Becky is the interior decorator.  They are currently working on updating several homes in upscale  neighborhoods around San Antonio.  Their personal home is currently for sale, and is an excellent example of the quaility of work that they do. See their home at www.115UpperBalcones.com.  This article was written by Becky at my request. Hope it helps!

Boost Your Home's Value- Update!!

     Are you looking to update your home to increase its resale value?  Do you want a new fresh look that will also build equity?  Then now is the time to remodel, or update your home.  

       Kitchens and bathrooms add maximum value for the decorating dollar. These rooms can be completely re-done or just the basics.

      Trends in kitchens are for granite countertops, tile or marble backsplashes with designer accents. Glass tiles in a myriad of colors are being used for accents or backsplashes, even whole walls. Painted cabinets are still tops, but dark stains are gaining in popularity with pewter or oil rubbed bronze cabinet pulls or knobs.  Top demands are for new stainless steel appliances, especially gas cook tops. An under counter sink and a new light fixture would complete a kitchen re-do.

     Master bathrooms trends are for new cabinets that look like furniture, granite countertops with under counter or vessel sinks.  Tumbled marble or travertine spa showers and rain heads are popular.  Remove plate mirrors for framed mirrors with new light fixtures or recessed lighting, and eliminate fur downs and light valances to open up your bathroom.

     Outdoor living areas are in demand because they allow you to add additional space for entertaining to your home.  You can add an outdoor fireplace, or an outdoor kitchen. Add casual seating and an outdoor rug and you have an outdoor living space.

  The top requests for updates are :

 •·        Remove Your Wallpaper-All wallpaper looks dated.

 •·        Repaint-Choose  caramel, khaki, camel, or latte, over beige or white.  French blue, Mossy Green and Dark Gold are very current complementary colors. Repainting is an easy way to update.  Choose new accessories, area rugs, or throw pillows to complete the new look.

 •·        Install Granite Countertops-in the kitchen and/or the bathrooms with tumbled marble or tile backsplashes.  There are lots of options for designer accents here!  Metal, such as pewter or copper, glass tiles, stone and marble make beautiful accents in backsplashes.

 •·        Replace Your Carpet-Choose "frieze" carpet over plush, or better yet, add wood or tile floors.

 •·        Replace Brass Fixtures-Replace your bath fixtures with "oil rubbed bronze" or satin nickel.  Remember to replace light fixtures and towel bars too.

 •·        Skip Trowel the Walls for an updated texture.  This adds textural interest and showcases those new paint colors!

 •·        Add Outdoor "Living Spaces".  Serve up your outdoor kitchen with a stainless steel barbeque grill, refrigerator, and sink. Put them in a brick or rock island with a granite top on a flagstone patio. Complete with a freestanding fireplace.

  A professional remodeler or designer can save you time, money and headaches!  Whether you just re-paint and add cabinet knobs, or re-do an entire kitchen, updating can be fun and exciting.

Rebecca Kulesza

Bill Kulesza Homes and Remodeling

210-218-9011