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Kitchens Go High Tech
By , Kitchen Designer and Selections Specialist,
Encore Construction, Massachusetts
Technological innovation used to begin in the kitchen. Many of a home’s most significant technological advances -- from dishwashers to microwaves -- revolved around saving labor in the kitchen. Recently, however, we’ve been more focused on improving communications than in saving labor. Kitchen appliances no longer seemed the focus of technological advances in the home.
That’s about to change. Corning recently released this fascinating video of its vision for daily life in the not-too-distant future.
The kitchen depicted in the video is practically here. Big appliance manufacturers such as GE, Samsung and Whirlpool have been partnering with technology powerhouses like Cisco and Microsoft to create a futuristic array of products. Appliances are already on the market that can keep you connected online, update shopping lists, provide recipe ideas, record voice messages and more.
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Bathroom Remodeling Trends for 2012
By , Design Administrator, Encore Construction, Massachusetts
Do you have a Jacuzzi in your bathroom? If so, it may be time for an update. Right now, efficiency – both in terms of time and environmental resources – reigns supreme. Jacuzzis, soaking tubs and bathtubs in general are “out” and high-end showers are “in.”For 2012, we’re seeing a movement toward luxurious showers with overhead rain-style showerheads, multiple showerheads, and digital controls. Since a long, indulgent shower can use more water than a bath, the industry has been quick to respond with innovative, water-saving showerheads. Many maintain water pressure by injecting air into the water stream.
2012 bathroom remodeling trends indicate a continued desire for comfort and convenience. Radiant floor heating, towel warmers, steam showers and even built-in TVs and beverage refrigerators make bathrooms relaxing havens.
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Kitchen Remodeling Trends for 2012
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
By , Kitchen Designer & Selections Specialist, Encore Construction, MassachusettsCreating Open Kitchen Spaces Without Adding On
It’s no surprise that a kitchen remodeling project is usually at the top of the list for homeowners who want to transform their living space. Kitchens are the work centers of the home, but they have also become the social centers. Guests gravitate to the kitchen to chat with their host or hostess as food is prepared, many children do their homework in the kitchen, and busy working couples often unwind at the end of the day by cooking together.
Our clients continue to be looking for ways to open up kitchen spaces to make them great for socializing, as well as for food preparation. In recent years, we’ve seen a trend toward maximizing kitchen space without adding on. Bump outs and the removal of interior walls have been great ways to create open, airy kitchens without increasing the footprint of a home.
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Home Remodeling Trends for 2012
Thursday, January 19, 2012
By , President & CEO, Encore Construction, Massachusetts
What’s “in” for home remodeling in 2012?
In the Cape Cod and Metrowest markets, we’re seeing a focus on the essentials that enhance the livability of a house for its owners. Rather than opting for a large addition, homeowners are focusing on making the most of existing space.
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New Ideas for Your Home: Smart Appliances
Monday, November 7, 2011
Homeowners can maximize their time with smarter, faster appliances.
Television Refrigerators
LG produces a fridge with a TV display that also functions as a DVD player and FM radio. The useful display features a weather and information center, calendar, alarm clock, recipe finder and digital photo storage. Samsung offers a fridge with an LCD screen called the ICE (interactive control entertainment) pad. It functions as a TV, and allows voice recorded messages and hand-written messages. You can also inventory fridge contents and set reminders when products expire.
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New Ideas for Your Home: Storage Solutions
Monday, November 7, 2011
Clever storage solutions help maximize every cabinet.
Here are some great ideas for your kitchen, bathroom, study and closets:
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Solar Energy Installation Yields 4-Year ROI
Monday, November 7, 2011
Remodeling for Maximum Energy Efficiency and Savings
Mr. George had decided to make his family’s vacation residence energy efficient and wanted to offset as much energy as possible by installing solar PV (photovoltaic) and solar thermal long before beginning the remodel/addition to the existing early 1900s cape style house located in Orleans, MA.
SunWind reviewed the proposed plans and worked with architect Sara Jane Porter to determine the most efficient and aesthetic layout of the systems on the new rooflines. Mr. George had asked for as much energy as possible to be produced by the solar system in an effort to make the residence as “Green” as possible.
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Visualize Before You Build
Thursday, September 8, 2011
by , President & CEO Encore Construction, Massachusetts
See Your Remodel…
Before Construction Starts“I wonder… will my furniture fit in the new family room? Do I really want white cabinets? Is the addition going to blend with the rest of the house?”
These are concerns I often hear homeowners express when considering remodeling their home. Not being able to see what their remodeled home is going to look like can cause them to have second thoughts about investing the time and money to commit to the project. Can you blame them? Who wants to end up with an addition or kitchen that is not what they needed or wanted?
At Encore, we use 3-D design software that allows us to vividly and accurately show our clients both their existing house and the house after the remodeling project is completed. We can show this from many different perspectives – including the floor plan, elevations and what we call a “dollhouse” view. Changes can be made to the designs in real time, so it is no problem if you want to see what a slightly larger master bath, diagonal tile or a door in place of a window will look like. According to our designers, showing homeowners exactly what their remodeled space will look like and how it will function, helps them feel confident about making the best choices for their home and budget.
Watch Glenn Travis, Architectural Designer for Encore demonstrate the versatility of our Visualize Before You Build software.
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Bath Trends 2011: Upscale Finishes; Tile Effects; Spa-like Retreats
Monday, July 25, 2011
We have been so busy this past year renovating bathrooms. “How do I design for thee…let me count the ways” with apologies to Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Encore-designed bathrooms are not necessarily all housed in a traditional, limited, 5’ x 7’ space. Whatever we are designing, our clients are appreciating and loving all the ideas that we can fit into one of the most important rooms in the house.
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Cost of Remodeling in Massachusetts
Monday, June 6, 2011
By , President & CEO, Encore Construction, Massachusetts"Just give me the ball park on the cost of this remodel and the time it will take."It's the first request I get from a homeowner; and, often before the usual preliminaries of discussing the weather. So, I launch into the long list of determining factors. Pull out phrases like how long is a piece of string. Ask about their wish list and things they can't live without. Inevitably, eyes glaze over and I know the homeowners want the bottom line first before they discuss the details.
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Encore Construction wins GuildQuality’s 2011 Guildmaster Award
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
By , President & CEO, Encore Construction, MassachusettsDennis Port, MA, May 25, 2011
Encore Construction, a leading remodeler and homebuilder in the Cape Cod and Metro West regions, announced today that the company has been awarded a 2011 Guildmaster Award for exceptional customer satisfaction.
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Did you know that homeowners value a special place for feeding pets?
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Lifestyles have changed the way we view our kitchens and the three pronged approach no longer rules kitchen design. This study by major cabinet manufactures reveals some surprising and interesting results.
Study Reveals Generational and Societal Influences Changing Kitchen Design.. Read Article
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Homeowners Spring/Summer Checklist
Friday, June 24, 2011
Get your home ready for summer so you can sit back and enjoy the season. Here’s a list of things to do annually to ensure that your home and property are properly maintained and your summer is chore-free!
