A family decides on two-toned kitchen cabinets and whether wallpaper in the bathroom is a good idea

• Homeowners: Allison, a project manager, and Tim, a professional in the solar industry, posted their project on Sweeten
• Where: Kips Bay neighborhood in Manhattan, New York
• Primary renovation: Kitchen and bathroom in their 1960s complex designed by architect I.M. Pei
• Sweeten general contractor
• Homeowner’s quote: “It would have taken us a ton of time vetting contractors on our own if we hadn’t used Sweeten. They made it easier to communicate with the ones who were actually interested in a project my size and provide competitive bids.”
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure deposits—at no cost to the homeowner.

Written in partnership with homeowner Allison. “After” photos by Kate Glicksberg.

A renovation date on the calendar

We live in our 1,200-square-foot condo with my partner, Tim, myself, and our children, Vivienne and Nicholas. After putting any renovations on hold for a couple of years, we couldn’t wait any longer when our master shower started leaking on to our neighbors below. Luckily, this gave us the opportunity to also upgrade our kitchen.

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There were many reasons to overhaul our master bathroom. The shower door leaked constantly and the tile had lost its integrity too. Style-wise, the decor was entirely dated with traditional light fixtures, beige tiles, and mustard color on the walls. In the kitchen, the existing layout completely closed it in as a galley. We saw that the space had much more potential. For example, its builder-grade cabinets were falling apart and ready to be replaced. We wanted to start over and focus on maximizing storage and establishing more functionality. 

Bathroom bonus: Extra storage

We were thrilled that our contractor was able to fit a full-sized closet in the bathroom alongside extra shelves for linens. The floors are marble and for the walls we chose subway tile for the timeless and sophisticated look we wanted. In fact, getting rid of all that ugly beige tile in one day was one of our favorite parts of the renovation. A bonus feature for us: a ledge for shaving and a shampoo niche!

The one hiccup we encountered was with our shower system delivery, which we had ordered with a special modern brass finish. It was backordered and ended up taking eight months to ship. As a result, the plumber had to return months later after the renovation was done to put in the final trim pieces. 

Instagram inspired me to try a bold wallpaper to bring some color and interest to our windowless bathroom and neutral tile. I bought this floral pattern as a peel-and-stick since I wasn’t ready to commit to it. But after a few weeks, the wallpaper would peel away every time I took a shower. By this time, I totally loved the pattern so I invested in the traditional paste version. There’s been no problem with moisture since. 

A kitchen in sage green is the new neutral

The design plan for the kitchen was to give it customized functionality and a mid-century modern aesthetic. We chose white Shaker cabinets for the uppers and a flat panel door in sage green for the lowers. Our Sweeten general contractor also created a special niche in the peninsula for a step stool to slide in and out. My son uses it to cook alongside me and I use it when I need to reach the highest shelves.

We were thrilled that our contractor was able to fit a full-sized closet in the bathroom alongside extra shelves for linens.

I was drawn to the hexagon shape for our cabinet pulls and made it a theme in the kitchen. A medium-sized hex tile on the floor has a nice natural finish. We just love its soft organic feel under bare feet. The pattern continues on the geometric pendants over the island.

All of the materials we chose were subtle enough to add another shape. So, we brought in a mini vertical stacked bond in marble tile for the backsplash. It felt like the right way to tie in the modern mid-century look. We kept the countertop a pure white quartz so it wouldn’t compete. The day the countertop arrived was a complete transformation for the kitchen.

Sweeten contractor with the right connections

Our Sweeten contractor saved the day when we had trouble finding a countertop vendor. Everyone we contacted had a backlog of work. Luckily, he brought in his own subcontractor, who came in the next day to measure and then the following day to install the material. It was a miracle. 

Throughout the project, we worked well with our contractor. It would have taken us a ton of time vetting contractors on our own if we hadn’t used Sweeten. They made it easier to communicate with the ones who were actually interested in a project my size and provide competitive bids.

Now that we’ve gone through the renovation process, we advise being very specific about what you want in the contract. Don’t assume the contractor will understand exactly what you want. If you find an issue with the workmanship, show your contractor what the problem is right away. They’ll be happier to know about it before it’s too late to fix it. In the end, we spent about $45,000 on our project and we’re really proud that we live in such a beautiful space.

Thank you, Allison and Tim, for sharing your new spaces with us!

Renovation Materials

KITCHEN RESOURCES: Merola Tile porcelain floor tile in Palm Hex Grey: The Home Depot. Bodarp gray green kitchen cabinets: IKEA. Cabinet hardware: CB2. Countertops in pure white quartz: Sourced through contractor. Carrara Bianco marble 1×3 stacked brick mosaic backsplash tile: The Builder Depot. Sink: Kraus. Faucet: Delta.

BATHROOM RESOURCES: MSI Bianco Dolomite marble mosaic floor tile; Ivy Hill Tile Bianco Birmingham 3″ x 12″ ceramic subway shower wall tile: Wayfair. Rifle Paper Co “Garden Party” wallpaper in Rose Multi: York Wallcoverings. Kohler shower fixtures and toilet: Appliances Connection. Elan frameless shower door: Vigo. Ivy Hill Tile shower floor tile: The Home Depot. Sink/vanity: AllModern. Mirror and lighting: West Elm.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post A Sage Green Kitchen Remodel in Kips Bay appeared first on Sweeten.

Tiffany and Chad's two-tone blue and white kitchen cabinets are home—thanks to their contractor

• Homeowners: Tiffany and Chad, both in pharmaceutical advertising, posted their kitchen remodel on Sweeten
• Where: Park Slope, in Brooklyn, New York
• Primary renovation: A new layout for a kitchen stretches along a single wall in an 895-square-foot condo
• Sweeten general contractor
• Homeowner quote: “We were able to bid [our project] out and compare estimates across multiple options. [Sweeten] made a tedious process seamless and easy.”
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments—at no cost to the homeowner.

Written in partnership with Sweeten homeowner Tiffany. “After” photos by Kate Glicksberg for Sweeten.

From a rental to home, sweet, home

Chad and I love Brooklyn, particularly Park Slope. When our relationship became serious and each of us knew we’d be together for the long haul, we purchased our one-bedroom condo. Interest rates were super low due to the pandemic, so it was a good time to buy. (We just got married in this apartment earlier this year!) We share our home with our two pups, Freddie and Georgie Weasley. 

Prior to moving in, the space had been rented to many tenants since 2006. As a result, the kitchen and bathroom felt grimy. I am a super clean freak and just wanted to design something we loved for our first home together.

The original kitchen was tucked in the corner. We would open it up to the living space but also elongate it across one wall. Chad and I like different styles so we chose to mix them—traditional/country with a Brooklyn/industrial accent. It has a ton of personality.

Two-tone blue and white kitchen cabinets glow in Brooklyn

In an effort to save money, we decided to be the project managers for our own renovation. We found our designer, cabinet supplier, and general contractor each separately—and we were the go-betweens for each one. 

"Our contractor helped us source new cabinets and the results were amazing."

Our renovation would be a simple rip-and-replace. Only a small portion of the wall was removed. We broke up the monotone with dual-color cabinets to give the space some character. They really pop, especially against the herringbone backsplash. The floating shelves are reclaimed for that country and industrial touch. The wood pieces are unfinished so it has that raw look we were looking for.  

A hurdle with a happy solution

Hands down, our biggest challenge involved the purchase of our kitchen cabinets. We spent $10,000 on cabinets based on the beautiful showroom pieces we saw in person. After four months, the delivery arrived with the cabinets in terrible shape that were unrepairable. Paint and pieces of wood were breaking off. The materials felt much lighter than what we saw in the showroom.

Our Sweeten contractor advised us not to move forward with installing them. He predicted the cabinets would need to be replaced between six months to a year. His team helped us source new cabinets and the results were amazing.

Our renovation team—supportive all the way

As first-time renovators, we didn’t know what the first steps were or what was required for a kitchen renovation. Our contractor and his wife were the absolute best. They proved to be professional and trustworthy. Furthermore, they were super committed to doing the best work and making their clients happy. They left the space very clean; the post-construction cleanup wasn’t as intense as I had expected it to be. 

We found our contractor through Sweeten. We were able to bid this out and compare estimates across multiple options. They made a tedious process seamless and easy. Another integral part of the team was our designer, Keith Spears, who guided us step by step. He helped to create drawings, choose materials, and identify where to purchase the product.

We love absolutely everything about our new kitchen. It lights up the entire apartment. The quartz countertop and black and gold accents are my favorites but the farmhouse sink is a showstopper. We also feel lucky to have ample countertop space; a luxury living in NYC. The decision to revamp our space was the right one. Our first apartment feels so much more like home.

Renovation Materials

KITCHEN RESOURCES: Kitchen cabinets: Sourced through contractor. Kitchen designer: Keith Spears. Fonce Collection cabinet hardware in matte black and satin brass: Schaub. Ceramic white subway backsplash tile: Floor & Décor. Lordear white farmhouse sink, 30″x20″x10″: Wayfair. Delta Trinsic faucet in matte black: Amazon. Undercabinet lighting: Flexfire LEDs.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post My Sweeten Story: A Blue and White Kitchen with a Modern Farmhouse Look appeared first on Sweeten.

A variation on glass showers simplifies the bathroom experience

A single panel is all you need

Many enjoy the sleek lines of a shower without a tub. It’s no surprise then that homeowners are taking it up a notch and exploring doorless walk-in showers. With an open entry, benefits include greater accessibility, fewer panels and hardware, and a greater open-air look. Below are doorless walk-in shower ideas from Sweeten homeowners.

There are a few requirements to note so that a doorless shower can be functional. Typical walk-in showers are surrounded by at least one glass panel. A stationary glass panel needs to be wide enough to keep water from splashing out into the bathroom. On the other hand, it should be shallow enough for an arm to reach the shower controls to turn the water on without getting wet.

TIP: Some homeowners have installed the controls on the wall opposite the showerhead. This provides easier access to turn the shower on. 

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments—for free.

A frosted finish for light and privacy

Not all glass panels need to be clear. For example, a master bathroom in a city apartment featured a frosted divider for an effusive light effect. The Sweeten homeowners preferred the softened natural light streaming in. In addition, doorless walk-in bathroom ideas work well in small spaces. For example, without a door, a large trough sink for two doesn’t feel like a squeeze.

A bath does double duty

Far from the busy city, a weekend home in Amagansett reveals a serene wet room-style space and a forest view. The homeowners’ Sweeten contractor installed a slim glass panel to keep the water in. A second panel divided the sinks from the tub leaving the doorless center as an entryway. At the same time, waterproof tadelakt plaster walls and teakwood planking keep the bathing area water-friendly.

Doorless walk in shower ideas with patterns

Sweeten homeowners, Cory and Andrew, made bold design choices in their small bathroom in Los Angeles. First, layers of linear lines played out on walls and floors. Then, the pre-fabricated glass panel was designed with a series of rectangles. Partially frosted glass diffused the natural light and provided some privacy. Finally, a pop of Cory’s favorite color, Yves Klein blue, peeks through the panel. 

A sleek shower in a townhouse

A spacious master bathroom was newly-created in a Brooklyn brownstone. Bellamy and Zak designed a streamlined walk-in shower. A wide single glass panel displays a simple white subway-tiled backdrop from floor to ceiling. The couple’s favorite splurge was adding heated flooring. 

Doorless walk in shower ideas in black and white

Sweeten homeowners Michelle and Danielle aimed for a modern twist in black-and-white for the main bathroom. With a tub in a second bathroom upstairs, this small room would feature a black-framed walk-in glass shower. As a result, the transparency enlarges the space which is playful with whimsical wallpaper. 

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When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 5 Doorless Walk-in Shower Ideas appeared first on Sweeten.

Plywood cabinets and handcrafted tile sets the artistic tone for a working kitchen

• Homeowners: Anthony Espino, founder of digital marketing agency Miki, and Jeremiah Corley, a senior manager at Maude, posted their renovation on Sweeten
• Where: Boerum Hill in Brooklyn, New York
• Primary renovation: Revamping a 150-square-foot kitchen, ideal for baking and cooking, in a 720-square-foot condo
• Sweeten general contractor
• Homeowner’s quote: “Our Sweeten contractor was a huge help solving problems on the fly.”
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments—at no cost to the homeowner.

Written in partnership with Sweeten homeowner Anthony. “After” photos by Kate Glicksberg for Sweeten.

Correcting some kitchen “wrongs”

Jeremiah and I bought our first home together one year ago in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn. We knew immediately the kitchen would be our first renovation project. The kitchen hadn’t had a true upgrade since the 1980s when the building was built and it was in serious need of some TLC.

Jeremiah and I both love cooking and baking. In fact, Jeremiah would consider it his favorite hobby. Before moving in, we had had a pretty great kitchen in our rental, so we had to bear it until we could renovate.

It wasn’t until we started the renovation that we uncovered the details of how things were connected in the kitchen—the previous owner had cut a lot of corners. Our washer was wired through tubes running inside the cabinets. We also discovered the floor tiles were set without any buffer on the subfloor, which caused them to crack.

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Saving money with a design-forward plywood kitchen

Our plan was to incorporate as much working countertop and storage as possible. But to keep costs low, we’d have plumbing and electrical remain in place where we could. The plumbing for the washer and dryer did move slightly, however, and got plumbed into the wall so it was up to code. By stacking the units and moving the refrigerator, we gained a lot of new counter space.

Our second money saver was to opt for all IKEA cabinets. I desperately wanted oak fronts, which IKEA didn’t have. I searched everywhere and found a company that made them specifically for IKEA cabinets. We ended up going with their plywood cabinet doors with oak veneers for half the kitchen. On the opposite wall, we installed recycled Kungsbacka cabinet doors in black. 

"To keep costs low, we’d keep plumbing and electrical in place where we could."

Our biggest splurges were the stone floor tiles and handcrafted tile made of clay for the backsplash. For the past two years, I’ve thrown my own pottery. It was going to be important to have the unique qualities and natural imperfections of handmade materials included in the kitchen.

A general contractor with solutions

We experienced massive delays due to the supply chain issues. All our orders for appliances and materials varied in delivery times. It ended up adding about 3-4 months of just wait time before we could start the renovation. Even with the extra time, our backsplash showed up the day before they were scheduled to be installed.

Luckily, our contractor had a warehouse and let us house everything with him at no extra cost. Living in Brooklyn, I have absolutely no idea how we would have managed this without them being able to hold things as they trickled in.

Our Sweeten contractor was a huge help in solving problems on the fly. The retractable vent hood was much more shallow than our extra deep upper cabinets. Our contractor came up with a quick fix by framing around it with leftover cabinet material. The vent was now completely hidden unless it was in use. 

Five months to a dream kitchen

Before we began, one of our biggest questions was how long would the renovation take. It was Sweeten that put us in touch with all of the possible contractors. They really helped us to compare all of our bids so we could make an informed decision on who we wanted to hire.

Our project took about five months from planning to completion. In addition to material delays, we had an electrical issue within the island that needed to be resolved. 

Our new kitchen is amazing for dinner parties! My family visited from Seattle and we had four or five people doing separate things in the kitchen, which would be unimaginable before.

Renovation Materials

KITCHEN RESOURCES: Plywood kitchen cabinets with oak fronts and hardware: Plykea. Black Kungsbacka cabinets: IKEA. Backsplash tile in M4 Canvas Sage: Heath Ceramics. Floor tiles: CIOT. Quartz countertops in Fresh Concrete: Caesarstone. Andrew Neyer Astro Globe mini pendant lighting: YLighting.

A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post A Plywood Kitchen is Loaded With Personality appeared first on Sweeten.

On the moody end of the color spectrum, cabinets in dark tones prove to be versatile

White and light hues are the go-to’s when you’re looking for an airy and calm feeling for a kitchen. But going dark offers a bold look. Dark kitchen cabinets—dark browns, navy blues, dark green, or black—strike a nice balance with light tile and countertop materials.

It’s edgy and dramatic and can elicit the “wow” just as easily as a white kitchen can. Gold or brass hardware will also add some glow to a dark finish. Small space kitchens, in particular, can embrace the coziness that dark cabinets bring. Below is a gallery of Sweeten kitchens to spark ideas.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

The popularity of green cabinets grabs the spotlight

The sunny kitchen windows in Hannah and Henry’s new Tudor-style home were a feature they wanted to emphasize in their kitchen remodel. So, the couple chose a warm, saturated green for their cabinets. The lower cabinets were painted white to prevent the room from feeling closed in. And like bits of jewels, gold pulls and knobs light up against the hunter green. Their white granite countertops are a nice bright topper.

Photo courtesy of The White Arrow

When Sweeten homeowner Jared bought his 668-square-foot duplex loft studio, he wanted it to have a boutique hotel feel. Hiring the interior design team The White Arrow would ensure that particular areas in his home would push some boundaries. The kitchen was one. “Our client took some creative leaps,” Keren recalled. The gray kitchen cabinets were repainted a vivid hunter green. “The color is a total showstopper, and we are so glad he was game!” Keren remarked. Their Sweeten contractor retiled the kitchen backsplash with marble penny tile and changed all door hardware.

A contemporary look for wood grain

Emily and Dan’s new apartment was awash in off-white and cream tones. It felt “too vanilla for us,” they said, and planned out a home renovation to bring in personality and New York cool. In the kitchen, they chose a dark, wood-tone cabinet with a heavy grain. Black hardware adds to the edge-y vibe. The glass mosaic backsplash and white countertop bring lightness to the space.

Dark kitchen cabinets are stylish in black

Initially, Ylia and Andre were planning on white Shaker kitchen cabinets with white subway tile. During the planning process, they made a complete reversal when they realized they really preferred Scandinavian minimalism. They chose cabinets in sawn smoked oak. Its dark tone is emphasized by light wood floors sourced from Sweden.

Black is a perennial neutral and in Danielle and Michelle’s kitchen remodel, black and beige tones would be timeless. It also had the simple yet edgy look they wanted.  They were thrilled to find matte black cabinets that looked expensive but were affordable. Best of all, the cabinet fronts were made from recycled wood and PET bottles. Mixing in beige floor tiles and maple shelving were the natural tones that complemented the cabinets. 

Dark kitchen cabinets classic in every way

In keeping with an updated traditional look for their 3,000-square-foot house, Griselle’s brown wood cabinets featured dark and light shading that allowed the wood grain to have some texture and movement. Separating the patio and kitchen, four sliding glass doors were installed during the renovation. They brought in a lot of outside light giving the cookspace some levity.

When you’re ready to get started on your kitchen or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best vetted general contractors.

A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post Dark Kitchen Cabinets Are Traditional Yet Bold appeared first on Sweeten.

The evergreen pattern stays on trend with safety advantages to boot

The little tile that could

If you’re looking for an instant “wow” factor in your bathroom, consider a graphic tile pattern. A bathroom floor in penny tile makes a visual impact and can easily be the main design feature. Yet, in a neutral color, it can be a supporting player to another focal point.

As one of the most popular tiles, it’s proven its staying power and has a delightful shape. Furthermore, this small tile requires a lot of grout. As a result, it provides more grip and is less slippery on a wet floor. Choose a matte finish for more texture and as an added safety measure.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free. 

A black bathroom floor in penny tile anchors

A full apartment renovation meant there would be three remodeled bathrooms for a Manhattan family. Each designed with clean modern lines, one features a dark floor with black penny tile and dark gray grout. It emphasizes the ever-popular vertical running bond pattern on the walls. The penny mixes well with other tile shapes such as linear ones. 

From gutted to glossy

Katherine and Chris purchased a two-bedroom in Brooklyn that had formerly been rent-controlled. This meant the space would not have seen a renovation in decades. To make better use of the space, their bathroom received a layout change with the tub moving to the back of the room. Overall, the materials transformed it into a soothing space with a big dose of glamour. Their bathroom floor with penny tile echoed in the shower while mixing with large slabs of marble walls. As a result, the penny pattern breaks up the marble and adds subtle movement.

A bathroom invokes the water

Sweeten homeowner and artist, Katy Garry, gut-renovated her family’s vacation home by the beach. Her pop art is seen throughout the house as murals and artwork. The guest bathroom is just as vibrant with a variegated palette of water-blue penny tile and painted goldfish. Covering the floor and the entire shower including the ceiling, the tile gives the feeling of being in the ocean.

Materials score points for character

Sweeten homeowners Ed and Alicia planned for a classic NYC look for their bathroom in their garden duplex. The color palette would be black-and-white. To begin, they installed the two most iconic tiles: the bathroom floor in penny tile and subway tile halfway up the walls. A vintage-style schoolhouse trough sink and black painted walls complete the look. With a wall-mounted sink and toilet, the floor design is given a full view. Bonus: It’s also easier to clean the floors with no obstruction. 

When you’re ready to get started on your bathroom or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post A Bathroom Floor in Penny Tile Is Simply Elegant appeared first on Sweeten.

Double the storage and a small layout change impact a galley space in Riverdale

(Above) A new office kitchen surrounded by extra storage

• Homeowners: Sally, a children’s book editor, and Aaron, a UX designer, posted their project on Sweeten
• Where: Bronx, New York
• Primary renovation: Revamp a cookspace to include a kitchen desk in a prewar building
• Sweeten general contractor
• Homeowner’s quote: “Sweeten was valuable in providing the ability to look through different contractor profiles and viewing previous work. It was nice to know that everyone on the site had been vetted.“
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free..
  

Written in partnership with Sweeten homeowner Sally. “After” photos by Kate Glicksberg for Sweeten.

Updating a loved home

The lobby is what initially drew us to the 1939 building in Riverdale. We still love it. We purchased a 1,200-square-foot sponsor unit that had been a rental for many years.  My husband, Aaron, and I live in the co-op with our children, ages 4 and 1.5 years old. 

With both of us working from home, renovating our kitchen and building an office kitchen would have the most impact on our daily life. The kitchen and bathrooms were very basic in budget finishes, so we had always hoped to renovate.

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Improvements in flow and function

There were half walls midway through the kitchen that created a little breakfast nook at the end of the room. However, I started using this space to work during COVID. The plan was to knock down those walls and have a more continuous flow. We wanted a kitchen desk large enough to seat two so that our kids could use it while my husband and I cook. 

We’ve been eating at home a lot since COVID. Updating our appliances and creating more counter space would improve how we function in the kitchen.  

Another huge issue was the electrical load. There weren’t enough outlets or enough circuits. For example, we couldn’t run our dishwasher at the same time as our toaster oven. We knew we needed to spend some money on serious electrical work.

An office kitchen benefits the whole family

The only layout change was moving our refrigerator away from the kitchen entrance. That simple shift made the whole room seem larger and gave us more counter space.

Our Sweeten contractors really helped us figure out the floorplan with the cabinets. Our kitchen had some wonky angles in the walls. They found solutions to make the whole design look more streamlined which incorporated an office kitchen. Our cabinets didn’t reach all the way to the wall near the entryway. The contractors suggested filling it in with open shelves and we love them. They make the space look so much homier.

"In the end, our kitchen cost between $45,000 – $50,000, including materials, appliances, and some small upgrades."

Cabinetry would be a big part of the budget since it would also be used to create the hutch around the kitchen desk. We used a brand from a big box store. Originally, we wanted to install IKEA but they were sold out for months. 

To spruce up the cabinets, we added elegant hardware. A counter-depth refrigerator was a must-have. Our old fridge protruded out but it also didn’t have a lot of storage space; it was a lose-lose. The French-door style in counter-depth fixed both of those issues.

Easy material upgrades 

We went with a gray/black/white color scheme so our large collection of  bright green kitchen accessories would pop against a neutral background. Our contractors recommended the gray vinyl plank flooring. It’s easier to care for than stained wood, and so far it’s been great. 

Our countertops switched to quartz which is such a nice upgrade from the ugly Formica we had before. 

How much our renovation cost

The biggest challenge was living at home during the renovation. With two young children, it was hard to get by without a kitchen. We stayed at my mom’s apartment over a few of the weekends, but weeknights were a struggle. Luckily, the contractors were friendly with the kids!

As first-time renovators, we knew absolutely nothing about the remodeling process. We have a strict co-op board, so our biggest questions and concerns were about going through the co-op approval process, making sure the project was completely on schedule, and not going over budget.

In the end, our kitchen cost between $45,000 – $50,000, including materials, appliances, and some small upgrades. A large chunk of the budget went toward upgrading our entire electrical panel to bring it up to code.

Working with our general contractor

Our Sweeten contractors were helpful and spent time explaining different options for flooring, counters, and other materials.

Sweeten was valuable in providing the ability to look through different contractor profiles and viewing previous work. It was nice to know that everyone on the site had been vetted.

It’s so hard to pick what’s our favorite part of the kitchen! We love the countertops, the open shelves, and the workspace. For cooking, the large sink and spray faucet has been a game-changer.

Renovation Materials

KITCHEN RESOURCES: Glacier Spring Ash waterproof rigid vinyl plank flooring: LL Flooring. Townsend Pearl Gray cabinets: All Wood Fast. KitchenAid 20-cubic feet french door counter-depth refrigerator: Appliances Connection. Bosch 500 series dishwasher: Appliances Connection. GE stove: Appliances Connection. Warwick cabinet hardware in Flat Black: Emtek. Quartz countertop and backsplash in Carrara Morro: MSI Surfaces. Undermount granite composite kitchen sink in Black Onyx: Kraus. Trinsic pull-down kitchen faucet in Matte Black: Delta. Paint in Decorator’s White: Benjamin Moore.

A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post My Sweeten Story: An Office Kitchen Becomes a Busy Family Hub appeared first on Sweeten.

Less material at eye-level is an appealing way to open up a cook space

Reallocating storage for shelving

There are few instances where a kitchen doesn’t require more storage. The more the better as the mantra states. However, there are some scenarios where a kitchen without upper cabinets is just what the aesthetic calls for. Without the bulk directly at eye level, the space opens up, feels larger, and brings a calm minimalist quality.

Some kitchens may have just enough storage in the lower cabinets to fulfill a cook’s needs. In addition, a closet or pantry nearby may take on storage duties. Below, Sweeten homeowners show how their small-space to mid-sized renovated kitchens function easily with fewer or no uppers.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Lower cabinets made-to-order

As first-time renovators, Chrissy and Matt tackled their initial questions of finding a general contractor and managing bid negotiations. The result was hiring a Sweeten contractor who they felt was in sync with their vision for a new kitchen.

The couple balanced a variety of materials with a tight budget and specifically designed their kitchen without upper cabinets. The driving factor was to save money even though they were concerned about dust on open shelves.  In the end, they moved forward with the plan. It turned out to be the right choice while keeping the look simple yet unique.

Chrissy and Matt were meticulous during the planning and maximized to the inch for all of the lower cabinets. Since the plywood cabinets were custom, they measured every kitchenware they used most often. From the coffee grinder to the pitcher, they planned the exact drawers they would be stored in.

A pantry: the key to gaining an open shelf design

After 14 years of living in her co-op, Melissa finally decided to renovate the kitchen and remove two walls enclosing it. The visual impact was immediate. Natural light streaming in from multiple living room windows now reached the kitchen. Floating shelves would make the most of the open concept layout as a decorative display. A vertical pantry provides the necessary storage for small appliances and dry goods. Without upper cabinets, Melissa was able to install a full wall of square tiles for the modern ‘70s Italian look she was after.

Modern design idea: a kitchen without upper cabinets

An NYC couple found a relaxing weekend escape in their Amagansett home. The kitchen in the 2,000-square-foot house is washed in natural light with such a calm airiness. Simple white open shelves blend in with the white wall behind them and take the place of upper cabinets. Lower drawers and cabinets in Douglas fir run around the perimeter.

Best of both worlds

When Jeremy and Chris closed up one of two entrances in their co-op’s kitchen, it allowed the length of the cabinetry to be extended on one side of the room. The extra space also doubled the counter space and created enough room for a pantry and wine fridge. With additional storage in place, extra-long open shelves lined the opposite wall for a more open feel. It looks like having half-upper cabinets and half-open shelves is a compromise that works just right.

When you’re ready to get started on your kitchen or home remodel, discuss with your Sweeten contractor if designing a kitchen without upper cabinets is possible in your space. 

A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post A Kitchen Without Upper Cabinets Feels Serene appeared first on Sweeten.

Half baths, or powder rooms, are indispensable as convenient washrooms—and as a decorative outlet

Half baths are useful and convenient to have in common areas of your home. Containing a sink and toilet, guests have a bathroom nearby without needing to enter private quarters. A half bath can be built into most small spaces with access to a drain pipe within 10 feet.

Personal style can be reflected in even the smallest of spaces. For example, it’s the ideal place to experiment with bold color, pattern, and texture. Here’s how five Sweeten homeowners worked with their general contractors to incorporate half baths into their overall renovations.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

A touch of rustic

The country decor in this Westchester County half bath offers a casual and traditional look! As part of a remodeling project for a 1953 home, the surrounding pastoral property influenced the interior design. Scenic wallpaper and white-washed wood tones brings nature indoors.

The home’s entire floor plan was revamped. As a result, more gathering and entertaining spaces were created for the multigenerational family. The powder room offers the convenience of a washroom nearby.

Repurposing space for a half bath

Sweeten homeowners Amanda and Cory needed to build a powder room on the ground floor of their 1919 Colonial home. With a young child, having easy access to a powder room off the kitchen was worth sacrificing two small closets.

A cream color palette with a bright white wall-mounted sink and Toto toilet exudes a sense of calm. The traditional paneled detailing on the walls complements the age of the house. 

A Scandi-inspired look

Kirsty and David’s remodeling goal for their 1924 Los Angeles home was to add an extension to the living space. The renovation opened up the rooms making them more user-friendly for guests and friends. The plan included a newly-built powder room. This made it a better fit for how the family lived. This room uses geometric wallpaper, a compact sink and vanity, and a chic, black-framed mirror.

A half bath for an apartment

The homeowners of a 1,800-square-foot apartment in Manhattan planned a complete gut home renovation. The family of five wanted a brand new powder room in the living space. Situated near the kitchen, dining area, and living room, it was a conveniently-located water closet.

An all-white color palette feels vibrant thanks to a variety of patterns. However, they chose gold bath fixtures from Kohler’s Purist Collection to contrast against the white. The sink and toilet float off the floor so the powder room feels larger.

Double duty in a Tudor-style home

Hannah and Henry purchased their 1930s Tudor-style home in September of 2020. The half bath, which also contained the laundry area, needed a major refresh. Stacking the Bosch washer and dryer and a floating vanity created extra floor space and storage. The result: better use of square footage for dual purposes.

The couple chose to keep a traditional look. As a result, they chose oversized, hexagonal floor tile and light wood cabinets with matte black pulls. 

When you’re ready to get started on your kitchen or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

A note on fixtures and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

Popular questions asked

What is a half bath?

A half bath is a common feature in many homes, regardless of size. Half baths are typically used by guests, which is why they do not include bathing facilities. Half baths are often small, accounting for less than 20 square feet of floor space. The most common configuration places the toilet at one end, facing the sink and/or vanity. 

What are half bath dimensions?

A half bath is typically 4’ x 6’ or 3’ x 6’, but there is no standard. For comparison, a full bath is traditionally 5’ x 9’, which is why most bathtubs are 5’ long. Three-quarter baths are about 4’ x 6’ to provide the required clearances. A half bath is not defined by its size, but by what it contains, which is usually a sink and toilet.

How to decorate a half bath

Most half baths will include a vanity, sink, and toilet, but little room for accessories. Shadow boxes are shelves built into a wall cavity that can add several square feet of storage. Shadow boxes utilize the space between the wall studs (usually 14 ½”) to house anything less than 3 ½” deep. 

If the wall is a wet wall, it contains plumbing and will be double thick. Shelving for decorative accessories, nice soap dishes, or toilet paper holders can easily be recessed into a wall.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post How to Decorate a Half Bath appeared first on Sweeten.

Keeping the same layout, a fresh slate of materials adds a personal touch

• Homeowners: First-time homeowner Abby posted her project on Sweeten
• Where: Crown Heights in Brooklyn, New York
• Primary renovation: A newly-built condo gets a fresh sage green kitchen re-do
• Sweeten general contractor
• Homeowner’s quote: “I had also heard a lot of renovation horror stories about delays, misinformation, and cost overruns. Sweeten was a great resource in making me feel comfortable to undertake the project.”
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments—at no cost to the homeowner.

Written in partnership with Sweeten homeowner Abby. “After” photos by Kate Glicksberg for Sweeten.

Good timing for a renovation

I made my first home purchase during COVID in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. My condo is located in a building built in 2020 and is steps away from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the Brooklyn Museum. I was renting in the Flatbush area and my lease wasn’t ending immediately. So, it allowed me to do the renovation before I moved in.

Inspired by a country feel and green kitchens

Although it was new construction, the kitchen felt very dark to me and had a kind of ‘80s vibe. The backsplash had square tiles and dark grout; it reminded me of graph paper. 

I also wasn’t a huge fan of the cabinets. Although I like color, I preferred a more airy green kitchen color instead of the existing darker cabinets. The kitchen design I wanted was a farmhouse feel, and choosing Shaker-style cabinets would get me there. The open layout of the existing kitchen worked well functionally, so the renovation would be surface only.

As a first-time renovator, I posted my project on Sweeten. They were a great resource for researching contractors, renovation cost guides, and budgets. Starting a conversation with contractors can definitely be intimidating if you haven’t done it before. I would have been pretty lost in terms of finding a reputable professional who I felt was trustworthy.

"We would schedule check-ins every few weeks where I could see the progress on-site, check out samples, and get any questions answered."

Spotlight on sage green kitchen cabinets

Our general contractor custom-made the cabinets. At first we were thinking of just ordering cabinets and painting them, but I think the end result came out really well. I had been thinking about green kitchen cabinets for a long time. Sage green kitchen cabinets have color but is a tone that isn’t overwhelming.

The fixtures would be black to complement the sink which I was planning to keep. I chose a clean white subway tile for the backsplash to maintain a calm and bright look. I think it came out beautifully.

We replaced the old floating shelves with walnut. These would be wall-hung and flushed to the wall, which were more streamlined than the previous ones. Luckily, the existing wood floor was a neutral tone, so no changes were needed for the flooring. 

I wasn’t living in the space yet but the renovation went smoothly. I lucked out! The only hiccup was when the entire range hood had to be moved to replace the backsplash which was time-consuming.

The right contractor delivers a dream kitchen

Before the project started, I was mostly concerned with making sure the condo would be done before my lease was up. I had also heard a lot of horror stories about delays, misinformation, and cost overruns. Sweeten was a great renovation resource in making me feel comfortable undertaking the project.

My Sweeten contractor was great to work with. He was very communicative and patient with me as a first-time homeowner and renovator! We would schedule check-ins every few weeks where I could see the progress on-site, check out samples, and get any questions answered.

I love how bright, airy, and clean the new kitchen feels. I also really like the floating shelves. It’s a nice way to display my pottery and glassware that would usually be hidden in a cabinet somewhere.

Renovation Materials

KITCHEN RESOURCES: Kitchen cabinets: Custom millwork by general contractor. Black hardware: Wayfair. Cabinet paint in Saybrook Sage: Benjamin Moore. Flooring, countertops, sink/faucet, appliances, and lighting: Existing.

A note on fixtures and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

The post A Sage Green Kitchen Has a Country Vibe appeared first on Sweeten.

The post Editor’s Picks 2021 appeared first on Sweeten.

“After” photos by Madeline Tolle for Sweeten

• Homeowners: Cory + Andrew posted their project on Sweeten
• Where: Glassell Park neighborhood in Los Angeles, California
• Primary renovation: A gut bathroom remodel is inspired by New York and Yves Klein blue while a pair of new entry doors open to the deck
• Sweeten general contractor
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Guest blog post written by Sweeten homeowner Cory Quailes

(Above) Family portrait courtesy of Sweeten homeowners

A homecoming for Americans abroad

Before the word “Covid” entered our collective consciousness, Andrew and I lived as American expats in Hong Kong. As educators, we worked long and active terms, which were often fulfilling, but sometimes thankless. We cherished our long breaks.

In our first few years together, we traveled all over Asia and Europe. However, we knew at some point we would settle back home in California, close to family, both given and chosen.

Purchasing the right-size bungalow home

2018 was our year. After I returned from a visiting professor role in the South of France, Andrew and I married in the south of California. Right after we said “I do,” we started looking for a home, for living in when we visited Los Angeles, and for renting out the rest of the year. Our goal was to find a modest, move-in-ready house in a central location, with a spectacular view.

We soon discovered, though, that the supply in the market meeting both our needs and our budget was greatly limited. Eventually, we chose the hillside of Glassell Park. Our 650 square-foot, two-bedroom, one-bathroom bungalow was still nearly double the size of our apartment in Hong Kong. It was more space than we’d had in a long time, and we knew that it would be the perfect place to welcome us back to this side of the Pacific. Best of all, our southwest-facing view meant we could watch the sun rise and set without moving from our perch.

Working from home during Covid

Then Covid happened. In the summer of 2020, we left Hong Kong, our cat Velcro in tow. Moving during a pandemic was not easy, but a larger space and the LA weather made working from home more manageable. We decided to enjoy actually living in our home before renovating. When the time was right, we started with the bathroom, and then added something special for our outdoor space.

The total renovation time, from demolition to painting, took about six weeks. The small bathroom was the biggest challenge. We wanted a space that was updated, but timeless. Which meant everything had to go!

Inspired by a classic bright blue

We’re not afraid of color but prefer to inject it as an accent. I chose black-and-white as the base with 3” x 6” white subway tile. (It reminded us of our years in New York). To add some whimsy, we decided to mix geometric shapes—herringbone in the shower and a brick layout for the rest of the bathroom. The tile installer ended up laying the herringbone horizontally instead of the classic vertical configuration, but this added to the quirkiness we had envisioned.

The bathtub was removed and replaced with a freestanding shower. Andrew is 6’3”, and was thrilled when he discovered the ceiling could be move up by a foot, allowing the showerhead to be mounted several inches above his red curls. For the shower floor, I chose a simple porcelain penny tile, trying to match one of my favorites hues: Yves Klein blue. To tie this rich color back to the rest of the bathroom, we painted the walls with custom-matched semi-gloss paint.

Making a small space feel open

I sourced all of the bathroom components myself. The pre-fabricated glass shower door plays with the geometric theme using varying sizes of rectangles. Its frosted glass helps to diffuse the light while providing a modest cover. I carried this into the blocky console sink with exposed legs. Above it, the round vanity mirror with a medicine cabinet ties back to the round penny tiles. Due to the small size of the bathroom, it was important to open it up as much as possible. So we avoided closed cabinets. This also forced us to be more mindful of our clutter.

For the most part, I was conscious of not over-spending on the decorative components. We did splurge with the pieces for the sink and shower. And with the pièce de résistance: a Japanese-style toilet and bidet with seat warmer, air dryer, and warm water setting. Andrew doubted the necessity of this but now can’t imagine life without it.

The tile installer ended up laying the herringbone horizontally instead of the classic vertical configuration, but it only added to the quirkiness we had envisioned.

 

The finishing touch was the porcelain basketweave floor tiles in black and white. I thought this would be a nice way to ground the complexity of the rigid and organic shapes with one last element.

Bringing the deck inside

When we’re home, we find the most joy watching the sunset from our deck that looks over the neighborhood. Our goal was to bring that view into the home itself, so we decided to replace the two living room windows with a set of prehung French doors. The best feature of the doors is that the blinds are set between two panes of glass, making it ideal for thwarting a mischievous, climbing cat. Velcro loves to play! Now all three of us can lie on our rugs and pillows on the floor, watching the sunbeams stream into our home. We even got a retractable screen door so that Velcro, too, can enjoy the fresh air from inside.

We’re very happy with the progress we’ve made on the home so far. It feels more like ours every day! That being said, we’re still not done. Next project: kitchen redo! As a home chef, this is my most sacred space. Stay tuned for more!

Thank you, Cory and Andrew, for sharing your hillside home with us!

Renovation Materials

BATHROOM RESOURCES: Shower tile, penny porcelain floor tile, basketweave porcelain floor tile, and bathroom wall tile: LA Tile and Stone. Sink faucet and shower fixture: Appliances Connection. Bright Showers rain shower head in oil rubbed bronze: Amazon. DreamLine French Linea Avignon shower glass door in satin black; Swiss Madison Claire 24″ console sink; Woodbridge Revel Smart Washlet toilet bidet; Golden Lighting Hines black and seeded glass lights; Pegasus medicine cabinet; Steves & Sons fiberglass mini blind patio doors: The Home Depot. Custom paint: Sherwin Williams.

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ADUs or accessory dwelling units can transform into home offices, living space for family or as a rental, or a retreat.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

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The post My Sweeten Story: Renovating Our Los Angeles Home on the Hill appeared first on Sweeten.

The post My Sweeten Story: A Renovating Couple Gains Their Urban Chops appeared first on Sweeten.

Smart home technology is everywhere today. It has made its way into our vehicles, our workplaces, and our pockets. With smart tech’s skill at automation, it’s no surprise that it has found a perfect place in the home. Nearly 70-percent of homes already own some type of smart home tech. And that number is only growing.

Some forms of smart home tech are more permanent. Sweeten outlines which ones can best be incorporated during a home remodel. 

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Smart water heaters and controllers

Far from being smart, the average water heater is more like a blunt tool. It maintains hot water even when you don’t need hot water. Or if you turned it down before a vacation, you’ll need to manually turn it back up when you return. It can take hours for the water to heat up again.

Smart water heaters connect to your home’s internet through Wi-Fi. This gives you remote access to all of the water heater’s functions. You can adjust temperature and set schedules. You can even monitor the status and shut it down if there’s a problem. This gives you a chance to call in a technician and avert disastrous water leaks.

Smart electrochromic (self-tinting) glass windows

If you live in a sunny climate, you know the constant routine of lowering and raising blinds to control inside temperatures. Even northern zones experience peak sunny periods during the summer. 

Self-tinting glass darkens or lightens automatically in response to solar changes throughout the day. No blinds are required and nothing physically moves. While the windows require power for this operation, the amount of power is minimal. For 2,000 square feet of glass, the electricity required would only power a 60V-watt light bulb.

Self-tinting glass is truly cutting-edge smart home technology. It is still not widely available. But it is worth looking into if you live in places with heavy solar and heat demands.

Smart connected appliances

Do all of your home’s separate appliances work as one? Probably not. Likely, they perform their own duties separately. A new and smarter option is to consider them as components of a larger system. According to EnergyStar, appliances with connected functionality use less energy than conventional appliances. 

It’s a two-part system. One, you’ll need to purchase smart appliances with that next big remodeling project. That includes refrigerators, freezers, washers and dryers, and dishwashers. Two, you’ll need a unifying management system that can recognize and operate those appliances. 

EnergyStar’s SHEMS program is one program that is available for free. Google Home is another popular program that acts as a hub for an ever-growing number of smart devices.

Smart home security systems

For a long time, “smart” was the missing link of home security systems. Home alarms would report to an off-site monitoring center. From there, a call would be placed to local police and to the homeowner. 

But smart security systems put homeowners front-and-center and keep them informed. That information is dually shared with the monitoring center and homeowner in real-time. 

While wireless security systems are popular, wired systems do have strong points. Cameras with wires running through attics or behind walls are difficult to tamper with. A hidden or locked-up digital video recorder (DVR) records hundreds or thousands of hours. Wireless cameras with SD cards record a few hours before rolling over and erasing.

Smart radiant wall heating

On cold nights, hot air gushing from the central heating system’s vents is a welcome feeling. But if you were to watch with a thermal imaging camera, you’d see just how inefficient this is. Orange and yellow areas of warm air build up in some areas. Blue and green spots indicate places where the heat does not reach.

Large radiant heating panels mounted on the walls evenly distribute the warm air. A thermostat notices that the room is cold. It signals to a smart controller located in a separate area. That signal is relayed to a manifold, which sends hot water from a boiler to the radiant heating panels.

Smart water monitors

Your home may already have a smart water meter on the street. Installed by the water company, this meter reports the level of your usage wirelessly to the company. This is what generates your monthly bill.

You can install a similar device that you own and control. A licensed plumber splices the smart water monitor (not meter) into your home’s water supply line. The monitor communicates with your home’s Wi-Fi system. With an app, you can track your water consumption and can make adjustments to save water.

Most importantly, a smart water monitor can sense unusual fluctuations in the water flow. These fluctuations may indicate a break in one of the pipes. Since the monitor is located at the start of the pipes, it can shut down all water to the house. This can stop devastating water line breaks before they happen.

Smart garage door openers

Garage doors remote controls are helpful, but they have a very limited radius. With a smartphone, you can control a smart garage door from anywhere you have a cell phone connection. You might be halfway to work and you think that you forgot to close the door. With the app, you can verify whether you did. If so, you can shut it remotely. Or you might need to open the garage door because a neighbor wants to borrow your mower. Smart garage doors expand the reach of the old remote control.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is here to stay but choosing a few or even just one device or smart home technology system can offer a convenient way to stay on top of the inner mechanics of your home.

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Check out Sweeten’s women-owned and women-operated general contracting firms in our five-part series.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post Smart Home Technology to Add During Your Remodel appeared first on Sweeten.

“After” photos by Miao Jiaxin for Sweeten

• Homeowners: Kayla + Jesse posted their one-bedroom apartment project on Sweeten
• Where: Chelsea neighborhood in Manhattan, New York
• Primary renovation: Remodel a tiny kitchen to add space and character
• Sweeten general contractor
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments—for free.

Written in partnership with Sweeten homeowner Kayla

From Renting to Buying

I’ve always had a passion for real estate. I even work in real estate tech as a product manager. Since moving to the city over 10 years ago, I’ve spent my fair share of time looking at listings of apartments for sale. After many years in tiny Manhattan studios (think 300 square feet), it was time to get serious about buying an apartment.

I started to hunt for Manhattan apartments (with a preference for downtown) that were both affordable and true one-bedrooms. I spent around nine months going to open houses on Sundays, and after seeing many apartments, I finally stumbled upon the space I ended up buying in Chelsea.

It might have been how quiet and calm the apartment felt, but it was exactly what I was looking for. It is a true one-bedroom in a prewar building and has much of its original charm: a sunken living room and beautiful arches. But the original kitchen was the size of a closet. I used the fact that it was outdated as negotiating leverage and was able to bring the purchase price significantly below asking (a rarity in Manhattan).

Everyone I talked to told me that the most I’d fit into the space was a 24” stove, but my heart was set on fitting a large turkey into my oven.

Deciding Who to Hire

After asking around, I realized that finding a general contractor to do work in a Manhattan co-op was no easy task. I stumbled upon Sweeten, and after posting my job there, I connected with a few general contractors. I didn’t go the architect route because it would have added to my budget on top of the renovation materials. Also, I wasn’t planning any significant structural changes. For a one-bedroom renovation, that extra cost is just enough to push the cost over the return. Without an architect, however, finding a detail-oriented general contractor who is on top of their game was paramount. That’s exactly what I found with the Sweeten contractor I chose.

Must-Have: An Oven to Fit a Turkey

The biggest part of the remodel was gutting my tiny kitchen. I hired a kitchen designer to help me optimize the layout. She came up with configurations I couldn’t imagine possible in a 70-square-foot space. As an avid cook, I had a few (okay, maybe slightly crazy) requirements: a full size 30” stove, a large refrigerator, and a dishwasher. I was told the most I’d fit into the space was a 24” stove, but my heart was set on fitting a large turkey into my oven. And after much finagling, we found a layout that allowed for everything I wanted and more (somehow, I even fit a wine fridge).

The original plan was to buy custom cabinets to maximize the tiny space, but after seeing the price tag (north of $15,000), I had to reconsider. My Sweeten contractor worked closely with me to come up with a solution: a combination of custom and standard cabinets. We spent two hours talking through cabinet door sizes as well as placement so that the doors were symmetrical and made sense for the space. (Trust me, this guy pays a lot of attention to detail.) For my peninsula, he took the lead on creating both a practical layout and aesthetically pleasing geometric shape. There needed to be enough room to pass when walking into the apartment (the front door is right near the kitchen).

A Refresh for the Apartment

Beyond the kitchen, the remainder of the renovation was giving the apartment a facelift. I refinished the floors, stripped the door frames down to their original steel, replaced the baseboards, changed the grout in the bathroom, added a closet in the bedroom, and put a nice layer of paint on all of the walls.

Delivery Saga

While much of the kitchen renovation was a fun process, I’d be lying if I said there weren’t bumps along the way. Most of my friends do not believe me when I tell them I bought six sinks for the kitchen. Yep, you read that right: six sinks. To make a long story short: there was a farmhouse sink that was too shallow (thankfully, my contractor pointed this out to me), one that fell off a truck during delivery, another that arrived and didn’t fit, another that arrived then got lost (and eventually found again), and two others that ended up getting returned. When the sink saga was over, my boyfriend told me he never wanted to talk about another sink again. And honestly, who could blame him?

At the end of the day, I ended up with a beautifully renovated home that stayed true to its prewar nature. A common question I was asked after completing my renovation was: Would I do it all over again? You betcha.

Thank you, Kayla and Jesse, for sharing your refreshed home!

Renovation Materials:

KITCHEN RESOURCES: White shaker cabinets, Carrara marble countertops, and backsplash: Sourced by general contractor. Kitchen layout design: Montford Workshop. Liberty champagne bronze knobs, #207033029 and pulls, #301379116; Delta Trinsic touch-technology faucet in champagne bronze, #20312474: Home Depot.  Bosch 24″ refrigerator, #B11CB81SSS: Appliances Connection. Bosch 18″ dishwasher, #SPX68U55UC: Appliances Connection. Viking 5-series 30” sealed burner range, #VGR530: Appliances Connection. Halsted semi-flush mount light fixture in warm brass by Possini Euro Design: Amazon.

BATHROOM RESOURCES: Moen 90 Degree vanity light: Wayfair. Grout in Dove Gray: Home Depot. 

LIVING ROOM RESOURCE: Halo 4-inch Smart Lights, RL460WHZHA69; Masonite bi-fold closet doors, #206580202: Home Depot.  Brayden 56” ceiling fan: Wayfair.

LIVING AREA RESOURCE:  Blato Linear light fixture above the dog bed: LBL. Jacobean wood floor stain, #305502024: Home Depot. Flat glass pendant light in entry: CB2.

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Have a small kitchen? These cook spaces are all under 60 square feet.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post An Avid Cook Remodels Her Closet-Sized Manhattan Kitchen appeared first on Sweeten.

Sweeten has a large network of carefully vetted, high-quality general contractors

Sweeten general contractors are the backbone of our business, and they’re amazing. They’ve all passed our rigorous multi-step vetting process, which includes confirming all required licensing and insurance, portfolio reviews, reference checks, and interviews. Only 15% of applicants get to join our network. 

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free..

We match the right contractors to your project

General contractors differ in their areas of expertise, their preferred budget ranges, additional services they offer (design, architect referrals, front office support) and their geographic service areas. We know our contractors well, and match only the right ones to your unique project. 

Our general contractors are accountable to us through to the end of your project

We’ve got your back! Sweeten is here to make sure nothing falls through the cracks. 

We curate a shortlist of well-matched contractors for you. You choose your favorite

After you get your list of matches, we support a competitive bidding process. We’ll help you compare bids. You can hire your favorite contractor based on their bid and how you feel about working with them. 

We provide a suite of digital tools to simplify the process

On our site and app you’ll find tools for:

• Posting your project and inspiration photos
  
• Comparing general contractors
  
• Conducting video site visits with contractors
  
• Managing contracts and estimates
  
• Directly messaging your contractor
  
• Making and managing payments
  

Our tools fully support the remote work ethos, and encourage full transparency.

We don’t charge you for our services

We get paid by your Sweeten general contractor, and only after you’ve signed a contract with them. Contractors treat our fee as a business development expense.

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Renovating? Here is what to look for when finding the right general contractor.

From architects to designers and contractors—here’s who you’ll need to hire for your renovation.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post Why Renovate with Sweeten? appeared first on Sweeten.

Emily Henderson, TV host and namesake behind the Style By Emily Henderson blog, and Sweeten’s founder, Jean Brownhill, have a conversation on making your best home through remodeling and design. Read some of Emily’s “aha!” interior design tricks and insight below.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments—for free.

Jean: Emily, what are your interior design tips to get more space or maximize small spaces?

Emily:

Multi-functional furniture

Think double-duty, for sure—ottomans with storage, sideboards that have cabinets. When you’re looking for furniture, think, “could this also have another function, a storage function?” That definitely helps.

In a smaller space, having less furniture will help you. It’s easy to be like,  “Well, this is a small sofa and then I have this small chair and this small chair…” and sometimes all of that will actually end up making the room look smaller because it’s busier. Think about bringing as little contrast as possible if you’re trying to make a room feel and look bigger.

Avoid a focal wall

Sometimes the desire is to have a focal wall, which I totally get. But it does chop up the space. It makes your eye feel like the space is smaller when it’s chopped up. We have an accent wall rule, and we’ve blogged about it before…essentially, if it’s a niche, if it’s a dedicated space that architecturally is addressed differently, then that’s a great opportunity for an accent wall. But if you have four walls in a room, don’t just paint one a different color—it just kind of chops up the space.

(Above) Sweeten homeowners hired designer Julia Oddo for their studio apartment renovation

Jean: When and who should be hiring a designer?

Emily:

Lack of time and experience

If you’re doing a pretty big renovation, whether it’s a whole house or even just doing your kitchen, and you truly don’t have the time, the desire, or experience, it’s a good idea to think about hiring an interior designer strictly because you’re going to make mistakes. Even we make mistakes all the time. It’s a luxury service, but I would say if you don’t have the time to really do the research to figure out how you want it to look and have the experience, then an interior designer will benefit you.

Design on the next level

Hiring an interior designer will take your house to the next level. You’ll probably get more custom pieces. It’ll look more unique than if you bought all from different big box stores, but you don’t have to do it. You truly don’t.

The internet has made an average homeowner able to buy a great sofa. And because of Pinterest and Instagram, people can really do it themselves. Again, you’re still going to probably make some mistakes, but that’s okay. Whereas I think 30, 40 years ago, they didn’t have the resources. We didn’t have the stores.

Jean: You always talk about how you want your house to feel. Interior designers don’t just create a vibe. They deal with the elements of the actual things that you feel and touch, like the sofas and pillows.

Emily: Yeah, and that’s my favorite stuff for sure. It’s the layering that makes it feel like a unique home.

Jean: How do we save time and money designing a home?

Emily:

Do the preliminary work

If you’re working with an interior designer, and you have a pretty clear vision, that saves them a lot of guessing, a lot of back and forth. If you have a sofa you love, show it to them, because they’re going to source 10 different sofas to show to you and that takes time. An interior designer’s costs for their time is usually on an hourly basis. So I think the more work you can do upfront, the better.

Spend on “wow” pieces

I have a different philosophy on where to splurge and save than everybody I know. These days there are very good sofas out there that are not that expensive that will also last for years. I feel like you should splurge on the conversation pieces like that amazing rug that nobody else has or a really great piece of art that will create a conversation. They’re the pieces you typically see that are vintage or custom, where you’re like, “Oh my God, I need…” That is going to just shift everything in the room and elevate everything.

Jean: Can you tell us what to do with blank or boring walls?

Emily:

Personality for each wall

There’s a lot of awesome DIY artwork out there right now. I do have a rule about decorating your walls. When designing a room, address every wall differently with a different style. One wall might be a gallery wall, one might be a mirror, one might be a diptych, and one might be a sculpture. Whether it’s a gallery, big single art piece or diptych, grid, sculpture, or mirror, those are the five go-to’s that we use to address all walls.

(Above) Sweeten homeowner’s dining area and gallery wall

Art is the key

So if you’re looking around and you’re like, “Oh, I have one small piece on that, one small piece on that wall,” that might be something that you could change pretty easily that would make your house feel more styled, more pulled together. Also, art is the number one way to make your house feel like a unique, personalized space for sure.

Thank you, Emily, for sharing your expert interior design tips with our readers! 

When you’re ready to get started on your home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post Q&A With Emily Henderson: Interior Design Tips on Small Spaces, Blank Walls appeared first on Sweeten.

Jean Brownhill, Sweeten’s founder and a trained architect, started the company to bring support and guidance to general contractors. She also created SAW (Sweeten Accelerator for Women), a mission to advocate and promote skilled women contractors. The aim was to shift the current professional model and help bridge the gender gap for established and growing firms.

Sweeten matches general contractors with high-quality home renovation projects, vetted for readiness and appropriate budget. Contractors pay only when they win a project. Budgets start at $15,000 and average $67,000.

Here, Jean offers a view into why she started SAW and the opportunities she sees for Sweeten to help women grow their construction businesses. 

Women already in the contractor role

I have personally seen a lot of women go into interior design or architecture and work in these industries for many years. What I saw was that we were frequently doing the job of the general contractor: managing subcontractors, choosing materials, or coming up with construction details. It’s so obvious to me that women are already doing that work—and just not being compensated for it.

That is the reason why I started SAW—and why I started Sweeten in general—because I believe that internet technology and the web allows for new access points. It allows for new opportunities. In the past,  a woman would have had an incredibly hard time becoming a general contractor, getting clients, or hiring the subcontractor networks they needed.

Now there’s so much transparency and opportunity. Sweeten provides that job deal flow that can help a woman-led general contracting firm not only in its first few years of business but also as the company continues to grow. We are so excited to support that. 

Including daughters in the conversation

The general contractor and the construction industry have long been dictated by nepotism and through union participation. Union participation is related to commercial work and we don’t typically do that type of project. In residential, however, it’s mostly through nepotism. Fathers would hand down their construction businesses to their sons—an intergenerational transfer. In some ways, Sweeten’s platform can help with the mentorship and tutelage to help women grow their businesses.    

In conversations with our male general contractors, we have said, “Hey, you should think about giving this business to your daughter.” In fact, we have one in our network right now whose daughter went to architecture school. I said, “Your daughter should take over your business.” He said, “That’s so funny you’re saying that. I was just having that conversation and didn’t even think that she would want it.” And she does.

Breaking the contractor stereotype

Through the power of storytelling and our blog, we’re highlighting the incredible projects that our women general contractors have completed and are really changing the narrative around what the job is. The job of a general contractor—it is logistics, it is communication, it is delegation. You have to marshal labor and materials to a job site and orchestrate the labor and the materials to come together to finish a project. You do not need to swing a hammer. You do not need to be a burly guy. Whenever the image of a general contractor is, it is a false one. Those executive functioning skills, women are great at that.

For all those reasons, it was clear to me that a program like SAW needed to exist. We’re so excited to be able to support these women general contractors. Hopefully, it will encourage more women to join the industry because they have the skillset for it. It’s a great profession and offers a path to small business ownership. The hours can be very flexible if you have children at home. 

Building a flow of work

Our women general contractors do not have a problem with getting hired by homeowners. The challenge is when women need to secure additional subcontractor labor and get them to work on their projects. Subcontractors still have a very outdated idea about who a general contractor is. The good news is that if there is a steady deal flow and steady work, money does talk. They can break that up really quick.

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Read more about Sweeten’s women general contractors and see their work and reviews here.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post How Women in Construction Can Grow Their Contracting Business appeared first on Sweeten.

Photos courtesy of White Arrow

• Designing partners Keren and Thomas Richter of Brooklyn’s White Arrow posted their project on Sweeten on behalf of client Jared S.
• Where: South Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York
• Primary renovation: Top-to-bottom upgrades took the existing finishes in a grayed-out-modern, 668-square-foot studio from stark to a luxe-chic state of relaxed
• Notable: The remodel brought needed storage and stretch-out room to the narrow condo.
• Result: A home towering with sleek touches and rich tones, and offering space for everything
• Sweeten general contractor
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free..

It’s hard to say anything but yes to the job next door. “This project, right around the corner from our home and office, was the most convenient project we’ve done,” said Keren Richter, principal designer and founder, with husband and partner Thomas Richter, of White Arrow. But that wasn’t the only aspect of the condo, part of a historic 19th-century building conversion in South Williamsburg, that drew them to the remodel. The lofted duplex, with its 19-foot ceilings and armspan-width, was unique in its shipping-tube configuration. And then there was the owner. Jared had stayed all over and sought to bring an alluring boutique-hotel vibe to the place.

“I’d been bouncing around between cities for a while—Amsterdam, San Francisco, back to New York City,” Jared said. “I wanted a place to call home, that would really be a sanctuary. I spoke with the design team about the aesthetics of spaces I loved, like SoHo Farmhouse, the Bowery Hotel, the Maritime in Chelsea, Brooklyn’s Wythe Hotel, the Freehold, the Clover Club, and the Walter.” The White Arrow duo was reeled in.

“We agreed we wanted to give the home the trappings of a sophisticated urban hotel,” Keren said. “It needed to be great for entertaining, hosting guests, relaxing and working,” which Jared, a digital agency founder, had been doing from home for years. The apartment, despite its high ceilings, was extremely narrow, with a ground-floor kitchen and living room that pushed the boundaries of its small footprint.

“Our goal was to make the home feel spacious and accentuate the positive,” Keren said. The walls, she explained, were a “disjointed arrangement of extrusions and unflattering angles,” including an inset stretch of exposed antique brick and a boxed-in, underutilized loft-bedroom platform. “We streamlined everything, reconsidering odd bumps as opportunities for storage and display,” she added.

“Every square foot had to be well utilized,” Jared said. He wanted to add nooks and niches to put his things, and make the place truly feel like his own.

We streamlined everything, reconsidering odd bumps as opportunities for storage and display

The designers and their client also agreed that, instead of demolishing the place, they would elevate the existing finishes and fixtures. “We set out to minimize the rustic details the developer had selected during the conversion, and bring the home to a quiet level of cohesiveness with a new color palette,” Keren said.

Following White Arrow’s plan, their Sweeten general contractor streamlined the place’s odd juts and angles, and adding custom integrated display shelving in the kitchen as well as the home office-niche. Workers refinished the white-oak flooring with a more neutral, beige color tone and painted the dark exposed brick. “I knew I wanted lighter floors for a more Scandinavian aesthetic, but was wary of bleaching them,” Jared recalls. He trusted the team and has no regrets. Similarly, whitewashing the brick felt risky when the designers suggested it—but it “totally opened the room,” Jared said.

“Our client took some creative leaps,” Keren recalled. Repainting the gray kitchen cabinetry in a vivid green was a biggie. “The color is a total showstopper, and we are so glad he was game!” Keren remarked. Their Sweeten contractor retiled the kitchen backsplash with marble penny tile and changed all door hardware and plumbing fittings in the kitchen, as well as the two bathrooms, which got new grout and caulk, toilets, vanities, medicine cabinets, and fixtures.

Throughout the place, the contractors added new lighting locations and dimmer switches and swapped in new fixtures. “We added dramatic chandeliers and sconces that draw the eye up to take in the dramatic, high ceilings,” Keren said. “Living finishes” such as an unlacquered brass kitchen faucet, bring warmth and texture. A home-media specialist integrated a sound system and a wall-mounted TV.

It was with the furnishings that the designers really connected with the hotel aesthetic they strove for. “We chose distinctive, contemporary pieces in rich materials and jewel tones,” Keren said. Both Keren and Thomas were excited to shop and showcase an unusual mix of international designers, including Muller Van Severin, Gio Ponti, Atelier Areti, Harto, Maison Sarah Lavoine, Slash Objects, and Trnk. “We sought out furnishings that would do ‘double duty’ to maximize small spaces,” Keren said—sophisticated sofa beds, the secretary desk that Jared describes as “an ingenious space-saver.”

“Every piece,” Keren said, “is of the right proportion and scale,” including the king-size bed that Jared considered a must-have in the loft bedroom. The designers searched endlessly to find the furniture pieces that would allow every room to feel both luxurious and functional. To mellow the mood of the bedroom, Keren said, they added “a floor-to-ceiling, emerald-green velvet drapery to hide the formerly visible ensuite bath.”

The project had a fast turnaround, thanks to Sweeten’s vetting and follow-up during the project, Keren said. “The contractor was easy to work with and accommodating as the scope grew.”

As for the owner—Jared has been pleased to have his own digs to hunker down in during uncertain times. “The designs are super smart and well executed,” he says. “The living-room nook is discrete and conducive to relaxation. I am really happy.”

Thank you, Keren and Thomas of White Arrow, and Jared, for sharing the results of an inspired collaboration!

SHOPPING GUIDE

KITCHEN: Wood flooring and matte white-washed finish stain from Bona Traffic: Bona. Kitchen cabinets: Existing cabinets  refinished with oil paint in custom emerald green: Fine Paints of Europe. Cabinet hardware: House of Antique Hardware. Countertops: Caesarstone. Bianco Carrara 1” penny rounds backsplash: Builder Depot. Sink: Existing. Unlacquered brass faucet: Studio Ore.

LIVING ROOM: Aura paint in Cloud White: Benjamin Moore. Blue-velvet sofa: Clad Home. Leather chair: Trnk. Side table: Slash Objects. Ceiling light fixture: Atelier Areti. Coffee table: Sonder Living. Rug by The Rug Company: Farrow and Ball. Desk: HARTÔ. Borge Mogensen desk chair reissue: Fredericia. Sconce: Muller van Severin for Valeire Objects. Sound system: Sonos.

DINING AREA: Table: &Tradition. Borge Mogensen desk chair reissue: Fredericia.

BEDROOM: Vintage Harvey Probber Danish Mid-Century modern walnut headboard: 1stDibs. Lamp: Maison Sarah Lavoine. Dresser: Vintage. Sconces: Cedar & Moss. Nightstand: West Elm.

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ADUs or accessory dwelling units can transform into home offices, living space for family or as a rental, or a retreat.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post A Williamsburg Studio Goes Boutique Hotel-Chic appeared first on Sweeten.

“After” photos by Miao Jiaxin for Sweeten

• Homeowners: A couple posted their suburban kitchen renovation on Sweeten
• Where: Montclair, New Jersey
• Primary renovation: Kitchen update
• Notable: Gaining square footage with a better layout
• Result: Room for an island and connection to the dining room
• Sweeten general contractor
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free..

Guest blog post by Sweeten homeowner

Leaving urban life in Brooklyn for New Jersey

My wife and I both grew up in apartments in New York City. When we were planning to start a family, we divided our living room inside a one-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn. We created another bedroom believing it would give us enough space. It was tight but manageable. However, when our daughter turned four years old, we were less than thrilled with our school district and we knew it was time to move.

My buddy, who lives in Montclair, New Jersey, suggested that we visit his town, and we fell in love with the area and the houses. We found the school we wanted our child to attend and searched for a home nearby. The market was crazy competitive. We lost six bids before we finally found a home in the neighborhood we wanted.

Reviewing inefficiencies at home

We bought the house, a two-level residence on a wide quiet street, knowing it needed work. We closed in June and didn’t plan on moving in till late August, so we had a little over two months to renovate. The kitchen was in bad shape. It was small and felt claustrophobic with cabinets looming over on all sides.

There was only about eight feet of usable counter space and about 20 square feet of space to move around. The stove looked like it came out of a movie from the 1940s. The floor tiles, which were cracked and loose, were what my neighbor called, “McDonalds” tiles—the ugly red terracotta tiles that are in some older McDonalds restaurants.

The house is almost a hundred years old. I’m guessing that most of the fixtures were original and that nothing was maintained. The plumbing was a mess—all the valves were corroded. At some point, the electrical box was changed, but no permit was pulled and the box was not up to code. We wanted to start renovations with the kitchen.

Trouble with contractors

We had the names of a few contractors who were recommended by our realtor. Some never called me back and three actually came by to see the house. One of the three never made a single measurement but quoted us $28,000 with no details. When I asked, he said it includes everything except counters, cabinets, and fixtures. I kept having to ask questions to try to nail down what exactly he was going to do.

Yet another contractor made measurements and told me he couldn’t start until November or sometime before Christmas. He still wouldn’t provide me with an estimate but kept asking when I was available to go shopping for cabinets with him. Speaking with my new neighbors, they told me it’s difficult to book any contractor in Montclair you don’t already have a relationship with.

One wall had an old butler’s pantry, and by removing it, we gained a whopping 18 square feet.

By August, we were pretty desperate. We spoke with an architect friend, and she recommended using Sweeten. She drew us a rough drawing of what we wanted, and we posted the job. Fortunately, we immediately received serious responses from contractors from outside of Montclair. After receiving several estimates, we found the Sweeten contractor we wanted to hire.

Finding hidden spaces at home

Work started in September. We were able to expand the kitchen by tearing down two walls. One wall had an old butler’s pantry, and by removing it, we gained a whopping 18 square feet. It was enough space to add an island counter, which gave us an abundance of counter space to do our cooking. There was an unused cellar entryway that we removed and made into a walk-in pantry. The wall between the dining room and kitchen was removed to create a bigger space and an open kitchen design.

Our Sweeten contractor was terrific throughout the whole process, acting as both contractor and design consultant. Being a really old house, there were some unanticipated structural issues during demolition, but he was able to deal with it all. He added a header beam and support columns to support the ceiling. Our contractor also helped us move some pipes and changed all the old corroded water valves. All of the existing DIY electrical wirings were all cleaned up.

We love our new kitchen. Opening up the space between the kitchen and the dining room, made the tiny space feel really big and flowing. In fact, I was able to take advantage of all that counter space to do a ton of baking with my daughter over the holidays. We couldn’t be happier with the result, and can’t wait for our next project.

Thank you for sharing your new New Jersey home with us! We love how your suburban kitchen renovation turned out. 

SHOPPING GUIDE

Carrara Morro quartz countertop, redwood porcelain floor tile in natural glaze: MSI. Cabinets: Forevermark. Ducted under cabinet range hood: Hauslane. Five-burner gas cooktop: Appliances Connection. Artec Pro pull-down kitchen faucet, Kore Workstation: Kraus. Profile combination microwave wall oven: Appliances Connection. Refrigerator: Appliances Connection. Dishwasher: Appliances Connection.

The post A Suburban Kitchen Renovation in NJ Puts Pockets of Space to Use appeared first on Sweeten.