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Designing a Home Office into your Home Renovation Plans

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Integrate Home Office Design into Your Overall Home Renovation Plans

Create a Comfortable, Luxurious Workspace at Home

Designing a home office as you finalize your home renovation plans is an excellent way to upgrade your Santa Clara Valley home. A bright, comfortable space dedicated to temporary or permanent work-from-home scenarios will help you function in style and comfort, without any distractions. The custom home renovation specialists at Flegel’s offer useful tips for creating an inspiring and efficient home office.  

Top Considerations for Designing Your Home Office

Fitting a tiny desk into a spare bedroom or a staircase landing may work as a makeshift office for a few hours of work. However, if you spend long hours working from home, think about designing a home office into your home renovation plans.

Here are some considerations for creating an ergonomic and efficient workspace.

  • Select the right spot: Location is one of the primary aspects in a well-designed home office.
    • Don’t restrict yourself on space. Look for an area that gets adequate natural light and can accommodate a full-sized desk.
    • Try to limit distractions. If you work best in a quiet space, creating a home office right next to a children’s playroom or a busy hallway may not be a great plan.
    • If the only suitable location that you find for your home office is a noisy one, consider adding soundproofing and echo reduction materials while remodeling this space.
    • If your clients are going to stop by, a space with a separate entrance would be ideal. However, if that is not an option, consider locating your office in an area that is closest to the entry and exit points of your home.
  • Don’t compromise on furniture or décor: For a dedicated home office, comfort is paramount.
    • Invest in ergonomic settings, including a suitable office chair and desk, along with additional seating as required. Choose your furniture based on your preferences and work habits.
    • Ensure sufficient storage within the desk or through built-in shelves and cabinets.
    • Consider your workflow and the items that you need at your fingertips while planning your room layout and furniture placement.
    • Dress the walls in a paint or pattern of your choice, and sprinkle in artistic pieces that reflect your personality.
    • Add interesting accessories and stationery to create a productive and inspiring space. Decorative vases, fun mugs and sticky notes, and trendy notepads and bulletin boards provide a cozy touch to your home office.
    • Add interesting accessories and stationery to create a productive and inspiring space. Decorative vases, fun mugs and sticky notes, and trendy notepads and bulletin boards provide a cozy touch to your home office.
    • Look for clever solutions to tame the cord jungle. Some office desks feature options with concealed tubing or wire organizers that keep the cords off the floors.
    • Choose appropriate light fixtures and task lighting to ensure that your late-night work is not a strain on the eyes.
    • For smaller homes, the home office may still double as a space for house guests. In such cases, it is even more critical to choose the right furniture. For example, adding a Murphy bed or a smart pullout couch will help your office look spacious, uncluttered, and less like a bedroom.
  • Equip your office with the essentials: Ensure that your home renovation plans provide for:
    • A steady internet connection
    • Enough electrical outlets
    • Any other special requirements related to your office equipment or communication requirements

Hire Santa Clara Valley’s Trusted Home Remodeling Contractors

At Flegel’s Construction, we are passionate about transforming old, tired spaces into beautiful, functional ones. Whether you need to refresh a few rooms, repurpose rarely used spaces to accommodate a home office, or give your entire home a makeover, we take on custom home remodeling projects of any scale and complexity. You can count on us for thoughtful, space-saving designs and flawless finishes, delivered on time and on budget.

Delighted homeowners across the Santa Clara Valley, including Palo Alto, San Jose, Mountain View, and Los Altos, CA vouch for our innovative design solutions, top-notch workmanship, and excellent customer service.

For creative ideas on home office design and budget-friendly customizations, count on the home remodeling experts at Flegel’s Construction Co. Contact us online to discuss your home renovation goals.

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Things to Do to Get Ready for a Home Renovation

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Get Ready for Your Upcoming Home Renovation

Begin with Your “Things to Do” List

You’ve done the dreaming and visualizing, even the arguing and agreeing; now it’s time to get ready for your home renovation. With so many things to do, where do you start? Be smart; come up with a proactive plan that allows for a stress-free, efficient, and cost-effective remodel. The makeover specialists at Flegel’s offer useful suggestions to help you enjoy a positive remodeling experience. 

Tips to Prepare for a Home Improvement Project

When you are contemplating a home improvement project, you already know ‘why’ you want to modify, expand, add, rebuild, or refresh certain areas of your home. However, chances are that you may not be sure of ‘what’ to change, or ‘how’ to make your home serve your needs and complement your lifestyle. It’s important to think about these details so you can look forward to a smooth renovation with minimal inconvenience.

With years of experience in a variety of remodeling projects, the Flegel’s team offers a handy list of the top things to do to get ready for a home renovation.

  1. Get ideas and inspiration: Look for inspiration in home improvement magazines, websites of remodeling firms, or other online resources, such as Pinterest and Houzz. If yours is an Eichler home, learn more about the history of this mid-century modern style architecture that is unique to its’ time. It may be worth visiting some of the Eichler neighborhoods in the Bay Area to check out how other homeowners have upgraded their homes while still retaining their characteristic charm.
  • Find your style: Start tracking, collecting, or bookmarking ideas and images. The more you look, the more clarity you may have on your preferred style, which is especially useful when you meet with your chosen home renovation specialist.
  • Collaborate with the right contractor: Find an experienced custom home renovation contractor who has the skills, vision, and resources to deliver clever design solutions and comprehensive services and make your dream home a reality.
  • Map out a plan: After your chosen home remodeling contractor gives you a preliminary quote, take a pause. Consider the proposed timelines and budget and re-evaluate your priorities. For example, in times of the current coronavirus pandemic, when physical distancing guidelines are still in place, you may want to start with the outdoor projects on your list.
  • Building or renovating a patio
    • Adding a pool house
    • Setting up an outdoor kitchen and grill
    • Creating a separate entrance to the basement, or adding a room above the garage

These are the type of projects where the contractor and crew can complete most of the job externally, without stepping inside your home.

  • Finalize the details: Once you are clear about the scope of work and choice of materials and finishes, sign a formal contract defining costs and timelines. This is also the time to arrange your finances and check about home improvement loans, if required.
  • Decide whether to stay or leave: Depending on the magnitude of the project and the number of spaces that you are renovating, decide whether to ‘camp out’ in your home or move into temporary living arrangements. There are pros and cons to staying put during a renovation, so think carefully!
  • Prepare your home and your family: While an efficient home remodeling specialist will ensure minimal disruption to your routine, it is important to prepare your home, yourself, and your family for the upcoming project. 
  • Inform your neighbors about the planned work schedule; they will appreciate the courtesy. If you live in a condominium, seek the necessary permits and approvals, or check whether your remodeling contractor will be managing those aspects.
  • Identify a storage solution and clear out the areas that you are renovating.
  • Remove any fragile or precious items from the rest of the home to keep them safe and prevent any unexpected loss or damages.
  • Talk your family members through the various phases of the renovation and the adjustments they will need to make to their routines during that time.

Sometimes, despite everything you do to get ready for a home renovation, unforeseen circumstances affect the project costs and timelines and put a strain on your personal and professional relationships. Pay attention to the details and maintain open lines of communication with your family as well as your renovation contractor, to ensure a smooth and seamless home makeover.

Stress-free Home Renovations with Bay Area’s Top Remodeling Contractors

At Flegel’s, we are passionate about creating luxurious and functional spaces to your exact specifications and complete satisfaction. With over 30 years of experience in interior and exterior home renovations, you can count on us for our innovative designs, master craftsmanship, outstanding project planning, and consistent customer service.

Contact us online to discuss your home renovation project with the experts at Flegel’s Construction Co., Silicon Valley’s trusted home remodeling contractors.

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7 Things to Look for in a Home Remodeling Contractor

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Quality Makeovers require Competent and Reliable Partners

Undertaking any type of home renovation is a big decision for every homeowner. Whether you’re planning a minor refresh for a couple of rooms, or a complete overhaul for your home, you need a partner who understands and executes your vision. You also want your project to be completed on time and within your budget. Consider these 7 things to look for in a home remodeling contractor, to achieve a seamless and stunning transformation.

Top Traits of an Exceptional Renovation Specialist

Home remodeling projects involve a number of complexities. Drawing up innovative plans, carrying out the demolition and reconstruction, sourcing the right materials, and managing the crew are just some of the tasks. Every activity needs to work in an organized manner to stay within the agreed timelines and budget. Your contractor will also need to account for other logistical aspects, depending on whether you stay or leave home during the renovation.

This handy checklist of traits reiterates what to expect from a home remodeling contractor, and may help you narrow down your choices.

  • Professionalism: In addition to checking the necessary qualifications and licenses, evaluate how the contractors conduct themselves. How effectively do they communicate? How meticulous is their initial assessment or quote? Do they have the skills and efficiency to manage the entire operation?  
  • Experience: Expertise alone is not sufficient, experience counts. Does the contractor have time-tested methods and proven results in this field? Can they provide testimonials, references or site walk-throughs? Do they have sufficient knowledge of the local building codes? Can they obtain the permits that may be necessary for large remodeling projects?
  • Coordination and management: From designers, carpenters and masons, to plumbers, electricians, and painters, you may need a number of specialists depending on the nature of your project. An integrated network will not only enable a seamless flow of different activities, but also help you save time and money. It’s important to check whether the contractor has the ability to gather, schedule, manage, and oversee the various professionals needed for the renovation project.
  • Visualization and delivery: Besides a strong work ethic in your hired contractor, the success of your project largely depends on their ability to understand your vision and bring it to fruition. It’s possible you may not have a clear vision to start with, but it is the contractor’s responsibility to learn about your lifestyle and needs and steer you towards ideas that meet your overall renovation goals. You can gauge this trait by the way the contractor handles the initial assessment. What questions did they ask? Could they break down the overall requirements into smaller projects that address your priorities? How well did they involve you in the discussion? Did they exhibit a client-first attitude or try to push their own design concepts?
  • Resourcefulness: Another important trait for a good contractor is the ability to identify and address potential issues, as well as prepare for the unexpected ones. From weather, labor shortages, and budgetary concerns, to structural complications, material delivery delays, or on-site mishaps, your remodeling project could face numerous obstacles. Assess the contractor’s ability to provide alternative solutions and find out how they plan to keep your project on track if they encounter unforeseen challenges.
  • Transparency in dealings: No matter how small or large your project, your contractor should be able to keep you abreast of every development. Find out how often they will provide progress updates. Are they transparent and proactive in informing you about any hurdles that may be interfering with your agreed timelines or budget? Will they assign a single point of contact? It will be beneficial for you to have an assigned project manager or a site supervisor who will liaise with you on all aspects of the makeover with complete honesty and integrity.
  • Service quality: Ultimately, the goal is to make your home remodeling project as smooth and hassle-free as possible. While you may do your due diligence, credibility checks, and initial assessments, they may not give you sufficient insights into a contractor’s service levels. However, some aspects could give you a fair indication of what to expect. For example, how diligently did they prepare and present the initial designs or quotes? Were their submitted plans reflective of your priorities and lifestyle requirements? Did they promptly respond to any queries or concerns that you raised on the proposals?

Hire an Experienced and Dependable Home Remodeling Contractor

Renovating your home can be a challenging process, especially if you are initiating a complex or full-scale makeover. Choosing the right home remodeling contractor will minimize stress and maximize your return on investment. At Flegel’s Construction Co., we have over two decades of experience in custom home remodeling projects. You can count on us for functional yet luxurious designs, top-notch workmanship, and flawless execution.

Happy homeowners across the Bay Area vouch for our attractive makeovers, effective customer service, and consistent delivery.

Looking for a capable home remodeling contractor to transform your Bay Area home? Get in touch with the renovation experts at Flegel’s Construction. Contact us online.

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Home Renovation Projects Often Start in the Kitchen

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A Kitchen Remodel Can Uplift Your Home’s Overall Appeal

It’s not surprising that home renovation projects often start in the kitchen. Every member of the family spends time here and has an opinion on how it can be more functional and attractive! From the layout, storage, and seating solutions, to the materials, fixtures and amenities, every aspect influences the aesthetic appeal and comfort of this space. The remodeling experts at Flegel’s Construction offer some ideas for luxurious and practical kitchens that cater to your cooking habits and complement your family’s lifestyle.

Kitchen Remodeling Ideas for a Successful Home Makeover

A cleverly planned and well-executed kitchen makeover will significantly improve the value and appeal of your home. When you discuss your project scope and examine top kitchen trends with a home renovation specialist, consider some of these factors:

  • Designated activity spots:Mealtimes, entertaining guests, the kids’ homework, your home office, and many more activities take place in your kitchen. Depending on the overall space available, you can look at creating designated spots that can be useful for each family member and their requirements. For example:
  • Get an island with an extended countertop to seat your kids in comfortable high-chairs and oversee their schoolwork or craft projects, while you cook.
  • Build a cozy breakfast nook that serves as a less formal eating area for the entire family.
  • Extend the cabinetry to add a built-in desk for creating a workspace, in the absence of a dedicated home office.
  • Open layout: As the heart of your home where all things converge, your kitchen layout must promote easy movement and clear sight lines. Depending on the size of your home and the possibilities to build out or take over adjoining spaces, you may be able to achieve a beautiful, open-concept kitchen. This would allow you to keep an eye on young kids, even if they are in other areas of the home when you cook. Knocking down some walls will also help in blending and enlarging your cooking and entertaining areas for hosting friends and family.
  • Comfortable cook space: Besides its many additional roles, your kitchen must do its core job of catering to your cooking habits and preferences.
    • Thinking through the placement of your refrigerator, stove, and sink will allow you to achieve an ideal work triangle. This will promote better flow and movement to enable speedy, efficient prepping and cooking.
    • Selecting durable and easy-clean materials for your countertops and cabinets will keep your kitchen clean and tidy. Eliminate the extra time and effort of cleaning stains and scuffs.
    • Adding thoughtful storage solutions and amenities will increase your prep space and keep the kitchen clutter-free. An attractive cook space will seamlessly blend with the dining room, family room, and other areas of your open concept home.

Stunning Kitchen Makeovers by Trusted Home Remodeling Contractors

Renovating your kitchen is not just about changing out the countertops and cabinetry, upgrading the appliances and hardware, or applying a fresh coat of paint. It is also about enhancing the functionality of your cook space, to create a warm, welcoming environment for the entire family. At Flegel’s Construction Co., we are passionate about designing and delivering custom kitchens that reflect your personality and complement your lifestyle. Our team of innovative designers and master craftsmen focus on your requirements and deliver your dream cook space within the agreed timelines and budget.

Our renovation experts have successfully completed several fabulous kitchen transformations for homes across the Bay Area.

Ready to give the heart of your home a striking makeover? Hire the home remodeling experts at Flegel’s Construction. Schedule a consultation and contact us online.

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New Home Design in the Age of COVID-19

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New Home Design in the Age of COVID-19

Expert Opinions from Bay Area’s Top Remodeling and Construction Specialists

Amid the current coronavirus global pandemic, global shutdowns, shelter-in-place orders, and virtual work or study lifestyles are the new norms in most homes. It is unclear if this short-term recalibration will have long-lasting effects. However, it shines a spotlight on the way we may modify our future living and working styles. The construction and remodeling experts at Flegel’s discuss the emergence of a new home design in the age of COVID-19.

Likely Trends in New Builds Beyond 2020

Our current situation is one that most of us have never experienced or expected. Almost overnight, our homes are multi-tasking as offices, classrooms, gyms, and more. You may have started using your guest bedroom, mudroom, dining table, or even a stairway landing as your new work-from-home spot. Your video calls may be giving others an intimate view into your home, with background activities that include bouncing kids, barking dogs, or even a pajama-clad spouse or parent.

The current health crisis may lead to a greater acceptance of and adaptation to work-from-home and learn-at-home scenarios. This means, you may have to look at your home in a new light with different expectations of what your living spaces could and should do.

Here are the top 4 new home design trends that are likely to emerge in the age of COVID-19:

  • Greater emphasis on indoor-outdoor living: With limited access to outdoor activities and social gatherings, you will be spending many more waking hours in your home than ever before. This would generate a pronounced need for natural light and better access to outdoor landscapes for enhanced livable spaces. It could also translate into addition of more windows or sunroofs, building sunrooms, and reimagining livable spaces as indoor gardens.
  • Critical balance between open and enclosed spaces: If people are more homebound, they will share space with the entire family for longer periods of time. However, this can only function effectively when the interior spaces are fluid and functional to accommodate multiple needs and tasks. While the kitchen, living, and dining spaces may continue to feature an open plan layout, there will be a substantial increase in allocation of private, enclosed spots. The key will be in carving out comfortable, open spaces, while delicately balancing the need for seclusion.
  • High demand for designated workspaces: It seems quite likely that many people will continue to use work from home or telecommuting options, even after the global pandemic ebbs. This will boost the demand for designated home office spaces that provide modern conveniences, along with adequate privacy and seclusion. The importance of smart storage will also increase. People will seek clever ways to conceal household or personal items, especially in compact homes where a separate, enclosed workspace is not possible.
  • Energy conserving designs and materials: While there is already a growing number of people seeking eco-friendly and sustainable home designs, the demand for energy-conserving features may further skyrocket in the age of COVID-19. Air filtration systems, solar panels and battery charging stations may become a must-have in many homes.

Bay Area’s Top Contractors Deliver Efficient New Age Homes

At Flegel’s Construction Co., we have decades of experience in building new homes, as well as construction consulting. Our innovative architects skillfully design spaces around your living, eating, play and work requirements, while our talented craftsmen deliver these spaces to your exact specifications, on time and on budget. We stay abreast of the changing trends in designs, and building materials and codes, while also keeping an eye on future needs of customers.

Check out some of the custom homes that we have constructed across the Bay Area.

Want to discuss and plan your new home design in the age of COVID-19? Schedule a consultation and contact us online.

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Living in Place Home Renovation Ideas

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Stylish, Functional, Living in Place Home Renovation Ideas

Add Safety and Comfort to Your Forever Home

Remodeling your home to address your own or an elderly family member’s needs? A few thoughtful modifications will help make your home safe and comfortable for seniors. The makeover specialists at Flegel’s offer some living in place home renovation ideas to enhance the style and functionality of your home. 

Home Design for Older Generations

An AARP study shows that around 76% of Americans (aged 50+) prefer to remain in their current residences for as long as possible. Although aging at home is a popular choice, it comes with several challenges. Designing homes for older generations requires careful thinking and meticulous planning.

Today, an increasing number of newer homes feature the principles of universal design. Essentially, these homes offer function and accessibility for occupants of all ages, sizes and abilities. While relocating or building a new home may not be your preferred option, you can apply these principles while remodeling your current home.

Here are some modifications that will allow you to continue living in place comfortably.

  • Improve visibility: Well-lit spaces will not only help in preventing trips, slips and falls, but also offer enhanced visibility for those who have age-induced diminishing eyesight. Ensure that your hallways, stairways and task areas have adequate light fixtures and high-wattage bulbs. If your structure allows it, consider installing a skylight to bring additional natural light into your home.
  • Facilitate ease of movement: Slippery surfaces or other obstacles on the floor present multiple risks, especially in a home with aging adults.
  • Upgrade to slip-resistant flooring in high traffic zones and bathrooms.
  • Widen your entryways and internal doors to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers, now, or in the future.
  • Eliminate any thresholds between rooms and install a curb-less, wide-entrance shower stall or a walk-in tub.
  • Consider knocking down a few walls to create an open floor plan and choose innovative customizations that reflect your needs and lifestyle.
  • Make it easy on the hands: Most of us may not think much about a routine activity such as turning a doorknob. However, it could be quite tedious or inconvenient for those with limited mobility or chronic conditions such as arthritis.
  • Replace knobs with simple lever-style hardware.
  • Swap out old faucets for easy-turning ones and update your cabinetry hardware with handles and drawer pulls that offer a good grip.
  • Install grab bars near the toilet, and in the tub and shower stall. Add handrails to both sides of your staircase, if possible.
  • Raise electrical outlets that are too close to the ground to make them more easily accessible. This is critical in preventing any potential injuries caused by excessive bending or stretching.
  • Create resting spots: Whether it is a bench near the doorway or a built-in seat in the shower stall, add landing spots that may come in handy if an older adult loses balance or feels exhausted during routine tasks.
  • Bank on technology: There is no shortage of new technologies that you can incorporate in your home. From sensor-based lights, faucets and doors, to intelligent appliances and self-cleaning toilets, choose the features that best meet your requirements.

Redesign Your Living Spaces with Bay Area’s Premier Remodeling Contractors

At Flegel’s Construction Co., we are passionate about delivering quality home makeovers to your exact specifications and complete satisfaction. Our creative team has the experience to design for older generations, while our master craftsmen skillfully execute these designs to perfection. Count on us to create accessible spaces that serve your current and future aging needs while also reflecting your personal style.

Happy customers across the Bay Area vouch for our consistent customer service and seamless project delivery. We are committed to deadlines and work within your budget.

For more living in place home renovation ideas and designs to suit older generations, get in touch with the remodeling experts at Flegel’s Construction. Contact us online.

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Top Bathroom Renovation Trends in 2020

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Inspiring Designs and Materials for Luxurious Makeovers

Exploring the top bathroom renovation trends in 2020 is an excellent starting point for planning a luxurious bathroom makeover. After all, when you spend thousands of dollars on creating a spa-like bath space, you want a look that lasts through the years, without feeling dated or over-the-top. The bathroom remodeling specialists at Flegel’s stay on top of the latest in bath designs, materials and fixtures, and offer a quick rundown on what’s in, and what’s here to stay.

Latest Designs and Styles for Remodeling Bath Spaces

  • Tubs are making a comeback: In the last few decades, people were doing away with bathtubs in favor of shower stalls. However, tubs are now making a comeback as an architectural feature that boosts the value of your home. Top interior designers favor the deep soaking tubs, such as the space-saving Japanese tub that comes with a bench seat. You can still have room for a stylish shower stall too!
  • Larger tiles are trending: The use of tile creates an interesting design sense in bath spaces, especially for wrapping the tub apron, or in the shower stall. However, subway tile is becoming passé. Instead of scrubbing tiles to keep the grout lines clean, current trends lean towards large-format tiles. Clean lines and minimal grouting offers a more continuous look, and creates an illusion of space, especially for compact bathrooms.
  • Curbless showers are in: In addition to larger sizes, the latest shower stall designs are all about clean, no-obstacle features. For example, curbless showers that do not have any raised thresholds make them easily accessible and safer for seniors and people with limited mobility.
  • Hidden drains are big: Camouflaging drains is a big trend in newer bathrooms. Another idea is to use linear drains that become a design element in themselves. They appear as long, narrow lines in the middle of the shower stall floor, or you can partially tuck them into the wall for greater effect.
  • Sleek, space-saving fixtures are popular: Freestanding or floating vanities, and toilets that are higher, elongated and hung on the wall free up floor space to make your bathroom look bigger. Square sinks provide a contemporary look and feel, while smart storage cabinetry keeps the clutter off the countertops.
  • Toilets with built-in bidets are an option: More manufacturers are introducing toilets with built-in bidets, in response to the aging-in-place requirements of older adults. Not only do they address the issues of limited mobility, they also help minimize the use of toilet paper.
  • Seating is a blessing: For larger bath spaces, adding a seating space is a smart idea. It could be for hair and makeup or general grooming in front of a mirror, or even a built-in bench in the shower stall.
  • Technology takes over bathrooms: While tech features are not necessarily new, they are becoming more popular ideas in bathroom makeovers. Smart shower controls, self-warming, self-cleaning toilet seats, mood-based lighting, are all geared towards conserving water and electricity while enhancing convenience and hygiene.

Hire Trusted Remodeling Contractors for Exceptional Bathroom Makeovers

At Flegel’s Construction Co., we have over two decades of experience in delivering quality bathroom makeovers to your exact specifications and complete satisfaction. Our creative designers strategically create personalized bath spaces that are on-trend, yet classic and timeless. Our master craftsmen ensure timely completion of projects, with top-notch materials, meticulous installations, and impeccable finishes.

Happy customers across the Bay Area vouch for our outstanding workmanship and consistent customer service.

For trending designs and quality bathroom makeovers, hire the experts at Flegel’s Construction. Contact us online. We can discuss more bathroom renovation trends in 2020 to help you decide what your remodeling project should entail.

Top Kitchen Renovation Trends in 2020

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Makeover Ideas for Luxurious, Functional Cook Spaces

Visualizing your dream kitchen is easier when you are aware of popular styles and can select what resonates with your own style. Here is a list of the top kitchen renovation trends in 2020 to get you started. From trending designs, clever storage solutions, and high-end materials, to the latest in paints, fixtures and accessories, you can get inspiration for every aspect of kitchen remodeling. While almost every interior design magazine and home improvement site publishes their own lists, the kitchen renovation experts at Flegel’s have summarized this year’s trends for you.

Kitchen Designs Trending in 2020

  • Open floor plans are in: Today’s kitchens do not hide behind doors and walls. Instead, they are becoming more front and center, to serve as extensions of the main living areas. In fact, in most homes, cook spaces are turning into multi-tasking zones where you can cook, enjoy your meals, entertain, catch up with the family, oversee the kids’ homework, and more.
  • Color is key: Since many homeowners are taking down walls and creating open layouts, the cook space becomes a visually prominent part of the main living area. Hence, a clever use of color is key. Current trends show:
    • Soft colors are replacing stark white kitchens. Use of light blues, light grays, green, and cream for cabinet colors is in.
    • Colored ranges and hoods, especially in pale blue or cobalt are also getting a nod from top interior designers across the globe.
  • Range hoods can be conversation starters: Decorative hoods in unique shapes and sizes are making a bold statement. They not only reflect the personality of the homeowners, but also serve as a piece of art or a conversation starter.
  • Porcelain countertops are the future: Porcelain slabs give the appearance of marble but do not stain, making them a popular option for kitchen countertops. Since quartz is becoming increasingly expensive, porcelain presents a good-looking, affordable, easy-to-clean, and durable alternative. It also makes for an excellent monolithic slab backsplash if you want to avoid tile.
  • Designer sinks and large islands are smart options: Whether it is a compact kitchen or an expansive space, maximizing the work area is highly desirable. Designer sinks serve as multipurpose stations since they come with cutting boards, colanders, drying racks, and other useful accessories. Pairing them with unlacquered brass or matte black faucets will complete their high-end look. Another trendy option that maximizes your workspace is a large kitchen island that is useful for prepping, entertaining, dining, and other purposes.

Hire the Bay Area’s Top Contractors for Fabulous Kitchen Makeovers

Whether it is modern fixtures, designer appliances, or open kitchen layouts, thoughtfully planned and carefully executed upgrades can significantly enhance the value of your home. At Flegel’s Construction Co., we specialize in luxurious and functional kitchen makeovers in keeping with your lifestyle, preferences and budget. Our creative designers stay current with the latest trends to ensure that your kitchen reflects sustainable styles and timeless elements, instead of just ‘passing fads’. We practice a meticulous approach that combines your vision and requirements with our innovative plans and quality workmanship.

See what our past clients have to say about their completed kitchen renovation projects.

Discover many other kitchen renovation trends in 2020 and complete your custom kitchen makeover with the experts at Flegel’s. Contact us online.

Green Home Remodeling and Renovation

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Make Your Home Energy-Smart and Eco-Friendly

Improving your Bay Area home’s energy efficiency is more complex than changing out a few light bulbs. A professional green home remodeling and renovation contractor can review various interrelated factors that impact your energy consumption and conservation capabilities. This could include insulation, windows and doors, lighting, water heater, cooling systems, electronic appliances, and more. At Flegel’s, our green home remodeling experts help you maximize your renovation dollars, and successfully reduce your ecological footprint

Key Steps in Achieving an Eco-Friendly Home

We follow a systematic approach to help you achieve the green home you desire.

  • First, we establish a baseline of your existing energy consumption and come up with a proposal that best meets your renovation goals.
  • Next, our creative architects will go to work designing your spaces to deliver on your planned green goals.
  • Our master craftsmen will then skillfully execute your project to meet the agreed upon timeline and budget.

Step 1: Energy Audit: As the first step in your green home remodeling journey, our experts carry out a detailed energy audit to find out your home’s current energy consumption. This includes a review of the insulation levels, quality of doors and windows, water heater, air conditioning, lights, appliances, and energy bills over the past year or so.

Step 2: Project Scoping: Next, we use energy modeling to create a zero-energy retrofit plan. This means arriving at a target R-value for insulation, U-value for windows, and minimum desired efficiency of energy-consuming equipment and appliances. We provide a quote for each proposed measure to help you finalize your renovation budget. You can pick and choose the most cost-effective projects that best meet your energy conservation requirements.

Step 3: Project Execution: Depending on the final scope, our team of innovative architects and skilled craftsmen carry out the project as defined. Here are some of the green initiatives that we think are most impactful:

  • Upgrading the insulation in the ceiling, attic, crawl spaces, siding, and walls.
  • Replacing all the light bulbs with energy-efficient LED or CFL bulbs. Consider motion sensor or timer-based lighting, or skylight installation, wherever possible.
  • Using environment-friendly paints with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
  • Installing solar panels and switching your primary power source to solar energy.
  • Replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones.
  • Conducting complete weatherization of your home and replacing the doors, where air leaks are not containable.
  • Upgrading old electrical appliances with newer, smarter, energy-saving versions.
  • Installing a smart thermostat with intelligent features to control your heating and air conditioning.
  • Using green building materials while adding rooms or building additional structures. We work with several eco-friendly materials, including hempcrete, bamboo, adobe, and composite products made from recycled wood and other green materials.

Go Green with Experienced Home Remodeling and Renovation Contractors

At Flegel’s Construction Co., we have over two decades of experience in green home remodeling and renovations. Meticulous project planning, innovative designs, and quality workmanship are the hallmarks of our service. We deliver all projects to your complete satisfaction.

Our renovation experts continue to serve a growing roster of happy customers across the Bay Area. Check out our many successful projects in Palo Alto, Mountain View, San Jose, Saratoga, Portola Valley, and Los Altos, CA.

Looking for an experienced green home remodeling and renovation contractor or new home builder to reduce the environmental impact of your Bay Area home? Contact us online.

Innovative Customizations for New Homes and Renovations

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Creative Ideas Fulfilled by Master Craftsmen

There is a certain inexplicable joy in building or renovating personal spaces that mirror your lifestyle and preferences. It is all about making your home an extension of your personality, without compromising on the aesthetics and functionality. At Flegels’ Construction Co., we specialize in innovative customizations for new homes and renovations, to create spaces that are both useful and unique. Our creative architects and master craftsmen are passionate about building outstanding homes that truly enhance the living experience.

Exclusive Designs and Unmatched Functionality for Custom Homes

What makes a home unique? It is not just about choosing an uncommon paint color, or a quirky tile design. When aiming for innovative customizations in your new home or renovating your current home, you want creative ideas that deliver a truly one-of-a-kind result. Here are some aspects to consider as you start planning:

  • Reassigning function based on lifestyle: One popular trend in custom constructions and renovations is to repurpose infrequently used rooms into more functional and useful spaces. For example,
  • If your open-concept Californian kitchen serves as the catch-all, do-all area of your home, do you really need a formal dining room?
  • If you spend most weekends in the family room, and do not entertain a lot, what else could you do with your formal living room?

An experienced home renovation contractor or new home builder can help you reassign existing rooms or newly built spaces with solutions that optimize your square footage and make more efficient use of your budget.

  • Reconfigure your layout: Every homeowner will agree that the layout is one of the most important aspects of a home. From the size and location of the rooms and furniture, to the kind of movement they demand, the layout can truly elevate or diminish your living experience. Custom layouts will help you achieve smooth flow and movement, without impacting the appeal or functionality of your home. For example, it may be tough to install a huge island in a compact kitchen. However, an on-wheels solution with built-in storage could help you achieve the same functionality, despite the lack of space. Choosing an experienced contractor who has fresh ideas and clever solutions will go a long way in optimizing your budget and ensuring a successful custom new build or remodeling project. 
  • Rethink ‘custom’: Big-box solutions may seem to be the cheaper, easier alternative to furnish your home. However, they usually offer a ripped-from-the-catalogue aesthetic that eventually starts to look similar to several other homes. Custom furniture or furnishings do not have to be expensive. For example, why throw away mismatched furniture that you passionately collected from vintage stores, or inherited over the years? Unify all your treasured pieces with the right selection of paint, stain, or patterns. Properly upcycled furniture will add a ‘custom’ or ‘exclusive’ touch to your home. For innovative, budget-friendly customizations, hire a capable contractor, who can think outside the box, and deliver solutions that are unique to your home and lifestyle.

Hire a Trusted Contractor for Attractive New Homes and Renovations

At Flegel’s Construction Co., we have decades of experience in constructing as well as remodeling homes to your exact specifications. Our talented architects offer clever design solutions, including space-saving and energy-efficient options for new builds and renovations. Our team of skilled craftsmen execute these designs to perfection. We aim to combine conveniences and luxuries that match your needs and preferences, delivering each project on time, and on budget.

Check out some of the custom homes that we have constructed in and around the Bay Area.

Looking for an experienced contractor who can deliver innovative customizations for new homes or renovations? Contact us online.

IN THE NEWS

2018 Silicon Valley Modern Home Tour

2018 Silicon Valley Modern Home Tour

Join us on June 9th for the 2018 Silicon Valley Modern Home Tour. Be sure to see our project “Sunnymount Avenue” along the route!

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Make Your Bathroom Kid Friendly

Make Your Bathroom Kid Friendly

Flegel's Construction Co., Inc. can help you discover "10 Ways to Make the Shared Bathroom Welcoming for Kids."

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TESTIMONIALS

  • Video Testimonial

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  • I would hire Scott again in a heartbeat

    I would hire Scott again in a heartbeat. He did our Eichler total remodel from roof to radiant. The workmanship is 5-star. Scott understands the uniqueness of Eichlers and modern design.

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  • I am confident that your expectations will be far exceeded…

    “Our home in Palo Alto was in need of help. Built in the early 1950s and barely updated since, there was a lot to do. Over 12 months and two phases, our home was transformed into the perfect mid-century modern oasis for our

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  • As easy for as us as possible…

    “We interviewed at least 7 contractors for our Eichler remodel and decided on Flegel’s construction and I am so glad we did! Working with Scott and his crew was such an pleasant experience. We had heard so many horror stories

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  • Stands by his work…

    “I cannot say enough about Scott Flegel. He is on the ball. He works on the project with his employees. He has very high standards and his employees follow his example. Our architect has come back to look at the project

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