Whether you’ve decided your bathroom needs an upgrade or you’re planning out your custom dream home master bath, we’ve got a few suggestions to get your creative juices flowing. Since bathroom remodels are one of the higher return projects you can do to your home if you ever plan to sell, it makes sense. And according to one real estate survey, homeowners feel more “joy” in their homes after a bathroom remodel or refresh, so it’s a win-win!
Here are 7 bathroom trends that can make a big difference:
Double Vanities
Double vanities are certainly not a new trend but are considered a must-have in most master bathrooms. We’ve also heard from many couples shopping for their next home that not having a double vanity is a deal-breaker!
Freestanding Tubs
Freestanding tubs are a more recent trend, and though they used to be more of a specialty item, they’ve become much more affordable. They do require a bit more space than a more traditional built-in tub, but they can really add style. And since freestanding tubs are available in so many different shapes and sizes today, you can find the right aesthetic – whether it’s vintage, contemporary, or something in between!
Mirrors
Sure, every bathroom needs a mirror, but have you ever considered how common it is to have standard straight-line mirrors in bathrooms? A statement mirror can easily and affordably dress up, adding personality to a bathroom.
Walk-In Showers
Not only do walk-in showers feel spa-level luxurious, but they also deliver many advantages, including accessibility and ease of cleaning (tile as compared to porcelain). Larger walk-in showers can also accommodate a variety of cool shower heads, jets, built-in seating, etc.
Shower Enclosure Variations
If you choose that route, you can still opt for a shower curtain, but today, there are a wide variety of shower enclosures to choose from. Glass is a very popular choice. It’s clean and simple and doesn’t detract from the shower stall tile or design.
Tiles & Textures
While tile is a fairly standard bathroom feature, there are many opportunities to add texture, dimension & richness to a bathroom’s design by incorporating differently shaped or raised tiles or various textures like natural stone, wood, glass, etc…
Floating Vanities
Growing in popularity, floating vanities are no longer synonymous with contemporary design. They can help expand the space available in your bathroom, make cleaning easier, and allow your flooring or tilework to be the star of the show.
What’s your must-have bathroom feature or trend? Let us know in the comments.
Are you thinking about a bathroom remodel in the York, PA area? The Jeffrey L. Henry, Inc. team would love to help bring your vision to life! Reach out today to discuss your next remodeling project. Elevate your bathroom to new heights of style and functionality with a contemporary transformation, including your favorite bathroom trends. With a wealth of expertise, our team has extensive experience revitalizing primary bathrooms, guest baths, and powder rooms across York County.
Whether you have questions or need guidance on custom homes & remodeling projects or you’re just looking for inspiration, we’ve got the resources for you!
If you are considering building a custom home but are not sure where to get started, we can help! We’ve put together just a few of the frequently asked questions we get about the custom home building process.
FAQs About Building a Custom Home in York, Pennsylvania
Q: I don’t have land or a lot yet.
A: No problem. Many custom home builders can work together with you to find your ideal custom home site. If you are looking to build a custom home in York County, our team at Jeffrey L. Henry, Inc. has lots available in Dallastown, PA, and in York, PA in the beautiful community of New Brittany II. Learn more about the custom home lots available in New Brittany II (Central York School District), here.
Q: What kind of financing do I need to build a custom home?
A: If you plan to build a new custom home, you’ll likely need financing that is more specialized than a standard mortgage. Construction loans are shorter-term loans (around a year) that are designed specifically to help cover the cost of building a new home.
If you need construction loan financing in York County, PA we suggest starting with the York Builders Association. Along with builders & remodelers that are local, licensed, and insured, YBA also has associate member companies that finance construction & mortgages, provide home insurance, settlement services, and more. Find a York, PA local pro for any of your home project needs here.
Q: I know what I like when I see it, but I’m not sure where to start with design & materials.
A: When you work with the team at Jeffrey L. Henry for your custom home build or remodel, we are always happy to make recommendations. However, we often suggest finding inspiration online. Look at photos of similar homes or projects. For example, you can see many of our projects in our portfolio, or on houzz. We even recommend finding designs and ideas you like and saving them on Pinterest.
Q: How do I find the right builder?
A: Finding the right builder is not something to take lightly. Building a custom home can take up to a year (there are many factors that impact timeline!) and it’s important that you feel comfortable and have a good working relationship with your builder as you embark on such an important project! We put this post together with five solid steps to take when searching for the right custom home builder.
Q: Is building a custom home more expensive?
A: The cost of your custom-built home depends on many things, but it is not necessarily more expensive than building a spec home (move-in ready home) or an older home you plan to customize to your needs. A spec home builder may select finishes or products specifically to keep costs competitive, for example. When you build a custom home, most of those selections are up to you, your tastes, and your budget. You may even be surprised to learn that building a custom home can be more cost-effective in the long-term!
Q: I’m still undecided about a custom home. What are the benefits of building custom?
A: Customization is probably one of the biggest benefits of opting to build a custom home. Other factors like the freedom to build wherever you like, exceptionally high standards, etc. are also important! This post covers 5 of the Best Things About Building a Custom Home.
Need a Custom Home Builder or Remodeler in York, PA?
At Jeffrey L. Henry, Inc. we don’t just build homes, we build relationships. Our reputation for quality, our commitment to our clients, and our extraordinary culture are a few of the things that set us apart as an exceptional custom home builder in York County. Learn more about the Jeffrey L. Henry Difference!
We are pleased to announce that we have been honored with the Best Custom Home Awards by the York Builders Association (YBA). The award is part of the PEAK Achievement Awards, presented annually by YBA. The PEAK Achievement Awards recognize excellence in all aspects of the building industry, from building and remodeling, to community service, outdoor projects, and designs.
Awards are judged by qualified industry experts from across the state. Judging criteria includes thoughtful design, creative use of space, quality craftmanship, testimonials from homeowners, and more.
“It’s truly an honor to be recognized once again and I’m grateful to have a committed team of experts that are focused on delivering quality & value to our customers,” said Jeff Henry.
About the winning home: It is a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathrooms, single-story home. The first floor consists of 2,850 sq.ft. of living space and the basement is partially finished at 1,650 sq.ft. which includes a wet bar, finished full bath & billiard/entertainment/recreation area. The 10′-0″ foundation walls, multiple windows & open staircase make this basement feel connected to the first floor of the home. Oversized 3 car garage with expansive covered front porch and rear patio finished with brick pavers. The exterior of the home is stone & Dryvit. Additional features include an open concept floor plan, custom cabinetry throughout, custom tile shower & Sun Room to the rear of the home, offering access to the rear patio. YBA Award Video
It’s amazing the impact that a few short months have had on the way many of us feel about our homes. Since the pandemic, we’ve seen a shift in priorities regarding home spaces.
As we discuss new custom home designs or home upgrades and remodels, here are some of the wish-list items we’ve been hearing more of.
Home Office Space
Many statistics show that over 50% of employers say that some form of remote work is here to stay. As you might have guessed home offices are at the top of the request list. Many homeowners either want to upgrade their home office or create a home office or multi-use space that didn’t exist previously.
We expect home office space will continue to be in high demand. For some families, this even means multiple work-from-home spaces.
Home Gyms and Multi-Use Spaces
Home gyms are also growing in popularity. With many of us losing access to our “gym experience” at the onset of staying safe at home, some form of home workouts have become a necessity. Purchases of home gym equipment have exploded since the beginning of 2020 and many gym owners now find themselves wondering how many of their customers will return.
For homeowners with smaller homes, multi-use spaces that can serve various needs and transform from office to gym to playroom or guest room have moved to the top of the priority list.
Kitchens
While the kitchen has always been a critical space for gatherings, there has been an even greater focus on the kitchen space recently. Due to spending much more time preparing meals in their own homes versus eating out during the pandemic, kitchen upgrades are more popular than ever! Months of isolation offered homeowners plenty of quality time to really focus on their kitchen wish-list items! Homeowners want upgraded technology, easy to clean & disinfect surfaces and appliances, more space, more functionality, and more style in their kitchens.
Outdoor Living
The restrictions that most of us have been under have really given homeowners time to reflect on just how important their home is as a safe place and a comfort. Many people who previously thought of an enhanced outdoor space as a luxury, began to see it as a necessity for reducing stress. Having a comfortable outdoor area is good for emotional health and it’s a great way to extend your home’s overall living space.
Have ideas on designing your custom home or redesigning your existing home? We’d love to hear about them. Contact us today.
If you’re considering a custom home, we couldn’t agree more! With a custom home, you have the freedom to express yourself in all of the details and have the peace of mind knowing that quality craftsmanship and materials went into every detail! Click here to read 5 of the Best Things About Building a Custom Home.
Home is your safe place. Your very own sanctuary where you can relax, entertain, raise your family & build forever memories. Making our homes “our own” to suit our tastes and reflect our personalities is something we all invest time and effort into.
So, when it’s time to build or buy a new home, one of our first questions is about customization. It can be a major pro of building a new home.
If you’re thinking about a custom home, here are just a few of the benefits we believe are worth considering!
Customization – We all want to express ourselves. When we buy a home that is already built, we often allow for things that are less than ideal because we really value one or more features. For example, the floorplan might not be exactly what you want, but you absolutely love the natural light! Or, you love the layout of the home, but many of the elements – like kitchen cabinetry, flooring, etc. do not reflect your personal style. With a custom home, it’s ALL about you! No concessions necessary. Some tract home builders may offer the flexibility of choosing colors, finishes, countertops, etc. but options are typically limited.
Build Where You Choose – Maybe you want to be part of an existing community or you have dreams of a secluded lot. When you build a custom home, the decision on lot choice and how much privacy you have are completely up to you!
Quality Materials & Workmanship – When you buy a home that is already built – even if it’s a new home, you don’t always know what building materials were used. When you work with a quality custom home builder, you can expect high standards and you will have opportunities to provide input about products, brands and pricing. Your builder should make sure you are well-informed about the pros/cons of your decisions. Custom home builders have existing relationships with suppliers and contractors that they can rely on to provide quality products, materials and pride in their workmanship. Whether you prioritize cost, brand, style, energy-efficiency/sustainability, technology, etc., when you work with a custom home builder, you can fully consider all your options.
Increased Functionality – Sometimes existing floorplans don’t suit your lifestyle. You’re either stuck living with logistics that don’t quite meet your needs, or you ultimately spend more to remodel to ensure your home is functional. A custom home is suite to your needs. By working with your builder on design from the start, you can rest assured that you’re making the very most of every inch of space!
Budget Control – You may find it surprising but building a new custom home can be more cost-effective in the long term. Big-ticket issues with the foundation, roof replacement, etc. are more likely with an existing home. Perhaps you need to build an addition or remodel to better suit your needs. Major renovations can be a big expense. A lack of energy-efficiency is often a costly culprit in a pre-existing home. Newer homes have the latest technology and are built to be more energy-efficient. Newer, more energy-efficient homes offer greater comfort and sustainability and lower energy bills. The cost for an older home may be lower up front, but unexpected complications can pop up.
A home is likely one of the biggest purchases you will make. You should feel empowered to make decisions about exactly what goes into that purchase! With a custom home you have the freedom to express yourself in all of the details. You have the peace of mind knowing that quality craftsmanship and materials went into every detail!
It’s May and many of us remain under stay-at-home orders. Maybe you’ve maxed out on Netflix or organizing closets. If you’re looking for something new to occupy time, here’s a thought! It’s spring and you can never go wrong with outdoor spaces.
Spending Time Outdoors is Therapeutic
It’s scientifically proven. Spending time outdoors is good for energy levels, your immune system, it boosts creativity, provides an essential source of Vitamin D, is good for positive mental health, and lots more. Best of all, spending time outside is free!
Before sheltering in place, maybe you already had plans to create or update your outdoor space. Sure, you could learn a new language or catch up on another entire season of reality tv, but considering how beneficial outdoor time can be, we think planning an outdoor retreat is time well spent!
Plan Your Outdoor Paradise Incrementally as Time & Budget Allow
In addition to the multitude of benefits we know spending time outdoors provides, here’s another plus to dreaming up your own piece of paradise – you can do it incrementally. It doesn’t have to be like gutting a bathroom and finding yourself pretty much locked into finishing the job. As you plan your backyard escape, you can start small and implement in stages. Check out this article from HGTV on how to logically plan out your outdoor space.
Popular Options for Your Outdoor Living Space
Decking – Decking can be simple or more expansive and multi-tiered. In any case, decks are an excellent way to transition from inside to outside since they typically connect to the outside of the home. Whether you choose wood or composite decking, a deck can add aesthetic appeal to your home. When you add outdoor seating, decks are also a great way to extend your living space. Some experts say that decking can increase a home’s value and provide a better return on investment than adding a bathroom. Keep in mind that higher quality decking materials generally result in a more maintenance-free, longer-lasting deck, which will have more appeal for future buyers.
Create an Outdoor Room – Don’t have a lot of space to work with? Try using fencing, bushes, latticework, weathered barn wood or doors, etc. to create “walls” for an outdoor room. You can even protect your room from the elements by adding an awning. Need some inspiration on creating your very own outdoor room? Check this out.
Patios and Porches – Patios and porches come in all shapes and sizes and can extend your home’s living area. Patios are versatile enough to be stand-alone features wherever you choose. Patios can serve as ideal entertaining spaces or quiet, more secluded areas depending on your intentions for the space. Design with pavers, stone, concrete, or other building materials that complement the style and colors of your home, and you are set with a relatively low-maintenance, easy-to-clean outdoor space for relaxing or entertaining.
Whatever you plan to do with your outdoor space, one of the best parts is decorating and making it uniquely your own. Add finishing touches like planters, outdoor area rugs, furniture, water features, fountains, drapes, stone, mulch, lighting, swings, hammocks, etc. There are tons of options for any amount of space and budget! Invest a little time and money into making an outdoor area that is fabulous and customized to your needs! You won’t regret it.
Ready to start planning your next custom build, remodel, or amazing outdoor space? Reach out to us via phone or email, we’d love to hear from you!
If you’re considering building a new home today, there’s much more to think about than how it looks on the outside or what custom features suit your needs. Your builder should also discuss with you during the planning stage just how important it is to ensure that all of your home’s systems and components are built to interact effectively, delivering the best possible health, comfort, safety, and energy efficiency.
Benefits of Energy-Efficient Homes Include: • Reduced Energy Usage/Better Performance • Lower Energy Costs • More Durable • Increased Comfort • Better Resale/Return-on-Investment • Better for the Environment
So, what are some of the critical variables that impact the comfort and energy efficiency of your home and help you save money?
Appliances and Home Electronics– When you really think about it, there are quite a few appliances in your home that consume energy. From refrigerators, stoves, washers/dryers to televisions, dehumidifiers, computer and audio systems. One study showed that about 13 percent of your energy bill can be attributed to a running refrigerator. The positive news about appliances is they are one of the easiest home items to upgrade to more energy-efficient models.
Insulation and Air Sealing – According to the American Chemistry Council, as much as 40% of a building’s energy is lost due to air infiltration. Talk with your builder about the best type of insulation for your home and location. Proper insulation not only reduces energy costs and increase the comfort of your home temperature but can also add structural integrity.
Lighting – According to The U.S. Energy Information Administration, light accounts for 14% of the electrical budget in an average home. Research lighting and bulbs that increase energy efficiency. Though they may cost a little more upfront, they are well worth the investment.
Heating & Cooling – The HVAC systems that go into your home play a major part in your home’s energy usage. When building your home or upgrading your system, keep in mind that heating and cooling account for about 48% of the energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Smart thermostats and programmable thermostats can also provide savings simply by changing how you time your heating and cooling.
Water Heating – Water heaters are another easily upgraded culprit of significant energy use. Certainly, the water use in your home also contributes to your home’s energy efficiency in relation to water heating.
Window, Doors & Skylights – Don’t lose all of the benefits of proper insulation and air sealing by overlooking sealing and stripping around doors and windows. Energy-efficient doors and windows also add value to your home.
At Jeffrey L. Henry, Inc. we are a builder participant in the Pennsylvania Energy Efficient New Homes Program. This means we must calculate the performance score of each qualifying home. The same ENERGY STAR® label that indicates efficiency for home appliances is also used to certify new homes. A home only receives the ENERGY STAR label after passing a series of stringent inspections and performance testing. Homes built to ENERGY STAR standards typically achieve energy savings of 20-30%.
