At Modern Group, we partner with many great companies to ensure that our clients’ needs are not only met, but exceeded. Today we wanted to take the time to highlight one of our premier partners, Burdette Cabinets Co., Inc. Burdette Cabinet Company’s specialty is creating handcrafted cabinetry for the kitchen, bath, office, or any other room in the home.

Let’s face it – cabinets are an essential part of any home. Whether they house crucial documents or display a family’s memories, cabinets speak of the character and personality of the home owner.  We have worked with Burdette Cabinet Company on multiple projects including our recent dream kitchen makeover contest.

There are many benefits to having handcrafted cabinetry. One of the benefits is that custom cabinetry is built to last. Quality materials are used which results in finished product that is built to last! Burdette Cabinets helps you choose the elements that work best for you so that you do not have to settle for average dimensions. You can even select unique cabinet and drawer combinations that fit your cooking and baking style. Ultimately, all of these amazing features create a more efficient kitchen for you and your family.

One of the most common reasons why people purchase a home instead of renting is so that they can invest in their home. Updating cabinetry is one of the best ways you can increase the value of your home. When you walk into a kitchen the first thing you often notice is the cabinets, so it’s important to not neglect them. While cabinetry is at the top percentage of kitchen renovation costs, it also shows the most return. If you plan on selling your home in the future, new cabinetry can help to attract more buyers than a home with dated cabinets.

We are proud to work with Burdette Cabinets and  we recommend you check out their website for a showcase of their work.

Though it is essentially a private space, it is an important place for escape and relaxation. When you add walk-in closets, a seating area and access to an outdoor deck or patio to a master bedroom it becomes master suite. Think of it as creating a private apartment within your home. A master suite typically has three elements: the bedroom, the bathroom and a walk-in closet. However, if the design isn’t efficient and you are not completely satisfied with the space, it may be time for a master suite remodel.  According to Rich Trethewey, expert from This Old House,” today’s master suite is not …your grandparents’ bedroom anymore.“ Here are some remodeling ideas to not only increase the value of your home but help create that getaway master suite you have been dreaming of.

Increase living space

Stealing available space from spare bedrooms or unused closets and hallways allows you to open up a bedroom suite. However, as a homeowner you should first consider the effect on resale values before converting spare bedrooms into master bedroom square footage. Adding personal touches like skylights and French doors makes a space lighter and more inviting. Create a separate sitting area in enlarged spaces helps make the bedroom feel more like a retreat.

Add closet space

Lack of closet space is a drawback in many older homes. Having adequate closet space should be a primary importance in your master suite bedroom remodel. Walk in closets are increasing in popularity and rank high on many prospective home buyers wish list.  Optimizing storage capacity in new, large closets is just as important as in small ones.  Closet manufacturers specialize in creating custom shelving from anything to jewelry to shoes. A nice plus in the master suite are his and hers walk-in closets.

Add En-Suite Bathroom 

Attached bathrooms make bathroom suites private and practical. Taking space away from a guest bedroom, bedroom closet or wasted space in a hallway are some options you might have in creating space for the bathroom. Separate baths and showers work well as long as there is adequate space to accommodate both. Designing a bathroom is tricky, so working with a professional designer and remodeler helps create beautiful and functional spaces. Some options to contemplate are which bathroom pieces you want. A big asset is a spa or a whirlpool tub. Some other features buyers are seeking are separate showers with steam and/or multiple jets, a double sink, and a separate room for the toilet.

If you have been contemplating an updated or expanded master suite, talk with Modern Group to explore your options. You will benefit from remodel experience to help you create the sanctuary you’ve always longed for. To begin your master suite remodel, call the Modern Group at (480) 596-1100.

Living in Arizona offers many luxuries that many other cities don’t have. One of the biggest advantages of living in Arizona is that we are able to use our outdoor living area practically all year – even during the holiday season. Throughout the holiday season we are often faced with crowded kitchens and the feeling that the available indoor space is closing in on us. So, why not take the party outdoors? If you are looking to create that perfect outdoor space that can be used during the holidays consider the following tips:

Have a fireplace installed: It does get chilly during the short winter months in Arizona, but a fireplace easily takes that chill away. Now is the time to capitalize on these cooler temperatures and consider having an outdoor fireplace. Not only does a fireplace add some extra late night ambiance, it creates a focal point for your outdoor seating area. HGTV notes that “outdoor fireplaces can provide ambient light and warmth on a chilly evening. Most important, however, an outdoor fireplace is essential for toasting marshmallows and making s’mores.”

Select the seating: Once you’ve decided exactly how you will use your outdoor space, it’s time for furniture selection and placement. Depending on your budget, there are numerous choices for outdoor furniture, including plastic, wood, glass and wrought iron. Consider wood as it will easily transition for the warmer months since iron tends to get hot in the warmer months (which we know Arizona has!) After selecting your pieces, the next step is to position your furniture to create a comfortable dining area and a conversation area with a view.

Accessorize your outdoor room: Using a holiday color scheme as a guide, add some holiday touches to create a festive outdoor area. One way this can be done is with potted plants. Potted evergreens, especially juniper and cypress bushes, not only add a festive touch of green, but they can be spruced up with holiday lights and ribbons, further enhancing your holiday outdoor decoration.

Utilize your outdoor dining table as another outlet for adding some holiday flare. Adding outdoor candles, garland, or bowls filled with pinecones or ornaments can enhance the look of any outdoor space for the holidays!

If you want to revamp your outdoor space for the holiday season or have any questions about remodeling your home, give Modern Group a call at 480-596-1100. We can help you transform your outdoor living space to be part of the holiday party!

According to Rick Salerno, a remodeler certified by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), when it comes to DIY remodeling projects, “’unless you know what you’re doing, you’re going to end up spending more money.’”  You can still save money on bathroom renovations, even with a professional contractor on the job. Hiring a contractor to do the work will help ensure that you do not make mistakes which will just result in more work and money.

If its time for you to revamp your bathroom, hire a remodeling company to help with these remodeling projects:

• Installing a New Shower or Bathtub: Outfitting your bathroom with a new tub or shower is a task you should leave to a contractor because of the complexity. There are many complex steps during the install to make sure everything is done properly.

• Replacing Your Toilet: Tired of your toilet? Maybe you want to save money and install a low flow toilet that is eco-friendly. A contractor will be able to properly install your new toilet. If a toilet is not properly installed, you run the risk of getting leaks, which and can damage to the flooring and become a breading ground for mold.

• Installing a New Sink: Want to create a new look in your bathroom with an updated sink? While this may seem like one of the easier projects of a bathroom remodel, there are a lot of steps that need to be taken to ensure that your sink is installed properly. A contractor will be able to make sure that the plumbing and sealant is done right the first time.

• Redoing Your Bathroom Floor: Is your bathroom floor dated or even worse carpeting in your bathroom? Experts will be able to make sure that you are not victim of a DIY mess of uneven tile work. If the flooring is laid incorrectly, it could create even more work, which is another reason why hiring an expert is a smart idea.

• Expanding Your Bathroom: Tired of fighting for the bathroom everyday? Expanding your bathroom involves a great amount of expertise to complete because of the challenging skill sets required. The average homeowner does not have the knowledge or equipment to properly run new plumbing, electrical, and partition walls.  A contractor will be able to help with helping you design the bathroom of your dreams.

You can save money on bathroom renovations by taking the time to hire a contractor with experience, excellent communications skills and creative designs. If you are wanting to remodel your bathroom and are looking for a contractor contact Modern Group at (480) 596-1100.

When thinking about remodeling a room there is often one overlooked aspect that many people don’t consider. A room can be transformed greatly just by paying attention to what’s above our heads. The ceiling can be a great canvas for creativity that has the potential to add a lot of dimension to a room. Three basic things can add to your remodeling project and help give it that added unique something no one else has, so we are going to explain them to you today. HGTV interior designer contributor Beth Haley says, “When designing spaces, think of the entire room three-dimensionally. If left untreated or ignored, then the emphasis will be on the ceiling… it will become the big white elephant. The ceiling should be the icing on the cake.”

Here are three ways to transform your ceiling:

Paint It!

White has been the go-to ceiling color for some quite time, but is it the best choice?  Color experts are now saying, “‘when you view a ceiling as a permanently blank canvas, you overlook an opportunity. Whether potent or subtle, a dose of color can alter the geometry of a room, changing the feeling of the space as it tricks the eye.’” A splash of color can change the feeling of the space and instantly change the look of the room.

• Dark rich colors: Opting for darker colors in large rooms with tall ceilings will create a cozier feel.
• Dress it up: One of the fastest, easiest ways to give a space a sophisticated look is to unite the ceiling and walls with a single color set off by crisp white trim. Glazes, textures and patterns can really enhance the effect of a paint and create a statement ceiling.
• Create more space: You can make spaces feel bigger by keeping the contrast between the ceilings and walls closer together then you normally would. Opt out of the traditional stark white ceilings and consider a darker color wall, choose two shades that are different, but allow your eyes to transition upward easily between the two. When the ceiling and walls are painted one color, with no contrasting molding, the result is soft and seamless.

Lighting can also be used to lift your eye from the floor to the ceiling, creating drama to that great architectural ceiling. In any room, especially rooms with high ceilings, you need to get light from a variety of sources.

Architectural Details

• Moldings: There are so many kinds of moldings to choose from besides Crown Moulding – think outside of the box!
• Beams/woodwork/exposed rafters: Beams or other wood work on the ceiling give a strong sense of style to a remodeled room or addition.
• Ceiling materials: Use your ceiling to create impact by covering it or adding embellishments. Tin ceilings are just one just example you could consider.

At Modern Group we are always finding new ways to make your home fresh and personalized to you. Give us a call today at 480-596-1100 or stop by our Scottsdale show room for some great inspiration.

There are many things to think about when designing a room, so don’t forget about the floors. You have many options when choosing a hardwood floor for your home. Nothing rivals the way wood warms up a room with its classic look and durability. With all the options available, a home remodel with new wood floors will not disappoint. There are dozens of wood options to pick from including rustic wide planks and traditional narrow strips. You also have many different stain colors to choose from which allow you to tailor your floors to your home’s desired style and decor.

When deciding to add new flooring to your home it is important to consider what room it is for. Consider these tips when deciding on where you want your new flooring:

• Kitchen and entryway: Choose a hard wood, such as oak or hickory, which can handle heavy foot traffic better than a soft pine. These won’t scruss as easily and will save you from having to refinish soft wood often.
• Bedrooms and home office:  Rooms that do not see as much traffic are good locations for softer woods, such as black cherry or black walnut.
• Basements: Avoid using solid-wood flooring where high humidity prevails. An engineered wood floor would be a better option because it’s more stable.
• Bathroom: The only places you should not go with wood floors are areas prone to high humidity and standing water — like a bathroom. Water can warp wood, making it a poor choice for baths with tubs and showers. Consider options such as tile or a greener option like bamboo.

Are you thinking of sprucing up your home with new flooring? Call us today or stop by our Scottsdale showroom to see a variety of flooring options.

We have all heard the cliché saying that first impressions are the strongest. Well, the curb appeal of your home is the first impression people see when they are looking at your home.  If you feel your home is the ugly duckling in the neighborhood it may be time for an exterior facelift. Studies have shown that curb appeal can increase the value of your home by 4% to 5%. Homes with poor curb appeal in neighborhoods with excellent landscaping sold for 8% to 10% less than the market rate. If you are considering selling your home, the exterior’s condition, as well as landscaping and yard maintenance all play key roles. Many potential home buyers will rule a property off their lists based simply on curb appeal. Whether you are planning on selling or staying in your home curb appeal is very important.

If you think your tired exterior needs a fresh makeover consider the following ideas:

• Exterior improvements have the highest return. Siding and windows can pay you back over 75% of their cost upon resale.
• Make sure people know where your front door is located. Consider having a curved path from the sidewalk to the house or maybe a large patio outside the door that creates an outdoor foyer for the home.
• Decide on a driveway. The material and look of the driveway have a huge impact on curb appeal, so choose to either downplay or dress up the driveway.
• Don’t forget about the landscaping. Too often a home’s outdoor landscaping is overlooked or underdone. An attractive and well-maintained landscape can add as much as 10% to the value of your home.
• Maintain your home’s curb appeal. If you do decide to update your home’s curb appeal it is important to keep it well maintained.

Updating your home’s curb appeal not only benefits you as the homeowner but benefits the entire neighborhood.  Also, making over your home’s curb appeal is not just for those homeowners looking to sell. Even if you do not feel that you will move, you will enjoy living in a house that is a real source of pride.

Take this new knowledge and take your curb appeal from drab to fab! Call Modern Group to schedule a consultation today.

With the sweltering summer temperatures receding, cooler weather awaits and fall is finally upon us! Now that the weather is bearable, begin using your patio to extend your interior space outdoors.

When creating a patio design, where does one start? According to HGTV, most designers coincide that the look of a patio should be determined by the style of the house. Patios of period homes will look different than homes that are more modern. To find inspiration, look in magazines and also online. Viewing different types of patio designs will help you decide what kind of patio design you want to create. Patios are typically smaller than outdoor great rooms, so look at functional outdoor furniture that provides storage while also being functional   When furnishing an outdoor space, think comfort, function and style – just as you would when designing a room indoors.

Consider using plants to add style and color to your patio. The plants you choose — leafy and jungly, minimalist or colorful — also affect the look, so think before you buy. Remember before buying plants and flowers to consider factors such as how much sunlight is required and what is seasonal. HGTV provides several inspirational design ideas for creating fall-inspired patio spaces that will leave you wanting to add some flair to the outside of your home for the fall season.

If privacy is something you seek, try using lightweight sheers for privacy which will also provide shade as well. Flooring is also important when creating your patio.  If you’re not sure about the direction of your design, find a rug you love and create a space around it.

Fall weather is here and a well designed patio space will provide you with a space to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. If you are considering remodeling your outdoor space to enjoy the cooler weather, give Modern Group a call today!

Expecting a crowd this holiday season?  If you’re entertaining family and friends over the holidays, there’s no doubt that you’re also cleaning your house from top to bottom.  You may even be thinking about doing some home improvement or remodeling.  Sure, the holiday season is still a few months away – but it’s never too early to start thinking about a remodeling project! Take some time to evaluate how your home accommodated your guests during past holidays. For those who plan on being out of town during the holidays a renovation might be the perfect way to consider a remodel and ring in the New Year. Three holiday remodeling ideas to consider are:

Kitchen

The heart of every home and center of the holiday season. A kitchen remodel is one of the best ways to add value to your home and recoup your investment too. There are many options when remodeling a kitchen from smaller changes such as new counters to larger projects such as a kitchen redesign such as creating an open floor plan, installing additional custom cabinets and upgrading counters to natural stone. There are many resources for surviving a kitchen remodel. Could you imagine cooking holiday dinners in a brand new kitchen for your friends and family to enjoy?

Living Room

After a fulfilling holiday meal it’s not uncommon for guests to congregate in the living room. Consider creating an open concept allowing for a greater flow of guests. Give your guests a little more elbowroom this season and consider creating an open concept living room that allows guests to easily flow into other spaces. Whether you choose to resurface that old fireplace or install new flooring you will be sure to benefit from a remodeled living room.

Bathrooms

With all the holiday food and drink pouring, the bathrooms are bound to get some use this holiday season. While it may be the smallest room in your home with countless houseguests coming in and out, it is sure to make it one of the busiest places during the holidays.  Typically bathrooms are quicker remodels than kitchens and are great places to start remodel projects. Using energy saving plumbing fixtures will help you save money in the future and the environmentally friendly benefits are sure to put you one the nice list this holiday season. When considering home improvements for the holidays that while you will be providing more enjoyable stay for your guests, you will also have the pleasure of enjoying your newly remodeled home for years to come.

Are you planning to do some remodeling before the holiday season? Call us today or schedule a walkthrough at our Scottsdale showroom.

The housing market is finally starting to look up! Just one year ago, new-home sales had reached a record-low with only 305,000 units. By 2013, new-home sales are expected to reach 505,000. Remodeling is also looking up as more homeowners opt to remodel rather than relocate.

According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), single-family housing production is expected to rise from 434,000 to 660,000 by 2013. As for multi-family homes, NAHB predicts housing production will increase to 235,000 in 2013, up from 177,000 units in 2011.

As for remodeling, it is expected that there will be a 12% increase this year with another 7.9% increase in 2013. Currently, the three most popular home remodeling projects include bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling and windows/doors replacement.

As the number of foreclosed properties begin to diminish, existing home values are seeing an increase. According to Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the Washington, DC-based NAR, “… an acute shortage of inventory in certain markets is leading to multiple biddings and escalating price conditions.”

Are you deciding whether to build a new home or remodel? Call us today or schedule a walkthrough at our new Scottsdale showroom.