Are quartz counter tops better than granite?

You’ll be fine with either one. For many years quartz was much more expensive than granite and the selections where limited, but in the last few years there are many more quartz options available and the prices have come down as demand has risen.

How much will my kitchen remodeling project cost?

This varies greatly by project. A full kitchen remodel including appliances generally starts around $60,000.00 and could range to over $200,000.00. Most kitchens in eastern Massachusetts range from $60,000.00 to $150,000.00

How much will my bathroom remodeling project cost?

This varies greatly by project. A full half bath remodel usually costs between $9,000.00 and $15,000.00. A family bath with a tub, vanity, and toilet usually starts between $25,000.00 and $30,000.00.

What is Design Build?

Design Build is a process in which one company handles all project budgeting, planning, design and construction. This preferred method of home improvement works since blueprints and designs from architects are expensive and add months to the process.

How much will a master suite addition cost?

This varies greatly by project and homestyle. A local, reputable design build firm will be able to help you determine a budget and also design and build your addition.

How much will a family room addition cost?

This varies greatly by project and homestyle. A local, reputable design build firm will be able to help you determine a budget and also design and build your addition.

How much does a finished basement cost?

This varies greatly by project and homestyle. A local, reputable design build firm will be able to help you determine a budget and also design and finish your basement.

Color Trends for 2014

Pantone is the world-renowned authority on color and provider of color systems and leading technology for the selection and accurate communication of color across a variety of industries. The PANTONE® name is known worldwide as the standard language for color communication from designer to manufacturer to retailer to customer.

Pantone has crowned “Radiant Orchid” the 2014 Color of the Year. It is the top-right color in their 10-color Spring 2014 selections below. There are several coordinating tones that would work well with this fun color! Pairing it with a deep olive green is a great, fresh and current color combination. It can also be combined with a vibrant, deep turquoise or a rich, yellow-gold.

When discussing color trends, my clients will often ask me, “Is gray still in?” The answer is, gray is here to stay and is still very current. If it works for you, try selecting a gray with a twist – choose a gray with a slight tint of color. Gray with a touch of green, blue or brown, paired with a darker tone of whichever tint you choose would provide a great starting palette. Then punch up the pair with a bright complimentary tone as an accent color – perhaps take your cue from Pantone and choose a soft or bright purple to accent the gray.

We’ll also see other pastels coming forward this year – think of Easter egg colors toned down. These will be accented with bold, darker hues like a medium navy blue, pumpkin orange or an acid green.

Blue will also continue in popularity this year! Paired with a light gray or white, this range of blues is fresh and sophisticated!

The current trends in color are influenced by everything around us, coupled with the natural cycles of interior style. When selecting colors and color combinations, there are many variables to consider. Here are a few tips that should help you in deciding on your color scheme:

When selecting wall colors, make this the last choice in your space. Put together all of the other elements first. The wall color will practically select itself!
Select your color scheme based on your own personality and how you want the space to feel. Do you want a vibrant, whimsical feel or a peaceful, austere feel? Either way you will be safe by using neutral colors for the backdrop and adding a bolder tone for accents. The amount of personality you get will depend on how much and how bright your accent color is.
Use your color sense with fashion to help with your color sense in designing your space. Fashion trends clearly influence interior design trends. Keep this in mind and your confidence level as well as your results will be elevated!

Once your overall color scheme is decided, the rest of the space will evolve a bit more easily. However, if you’re generally unsure of yourself or overwhelmed with the very idea of selecting colors (or anything else) and you live within driving distance of MetroWest Boston, contact me and I’ll be happy to come to your home, consult with you and provide a color analysis or full interior design recommendations for your space!

Masters Touch has moved to 24 Water St., Holliston, MA 01746.

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Nancy Werneken