There are several rooms in the home where countertops play a key role. Kitchens and bathrooms, laundry rooms, home offices, and bars (just to name a few) all utilize this design feature to accomplish their functions. If you're remodeling your home and will be adding or changing your counter surfaces, then you'll likely be faced with an important question: what material will your new countertop be? There are several types of counter products on the market, but if you're unsure about the most common options, read on.
Read MoreNeal's Home Remodeling and Design Blog
Tile backsplashes can bring a lot of character and interest to the kitchen. With all the options out there for tiles, though, it can be hard to pinpoint exactly what might work well for you and your kitchen. Looking at what's popular can sometimes offer inspiration or cues to find the backsplash look you're going for. If we can pinpoint any one thing that unites the trending options we're seeing in the kitchens we've done recently, it would possibly be a desire to create kitchens that feel unique. These trends are more like basic guidelines with a lot of ways to apply them, rather than strict or specific choices, which works very well to create trendy kitchens that still feel special and custom. Here are 7 of these trends we're seeing in tile backsplashes right now.
Read MoreTopics: Design Trends and Ideas, Kitchens, Project Inspiration
Shower design is rooted in the way that each surface is handled and how it conveys the style and tone of the bathroom. A well-design shower is one that combines the various components, usually tile or stone, in a way that helps the space feel welcoming and comfortable. Pairing different materials in different scales, colors, or in different configurations, will dramatically change the overall look of a shower. Here are several custom walk-in shower design ideas that show how these design concepts work in action.
Read MoreTopics: Design Trends and Ideas, Bathrooms, Walk-In Showers, Project Inspiration
One feature of the home that has seemingly endless possible design options is the fireplace surround. Whether you've got a wood-burning or gas fireplace, the surround offers a chance to express some personality and interest. Since the fireplace is a ready-made focal point in a living space, consider the way that it compliments or offsets the room around it. Here are 6 fireplace surround ideas to inspire you.
Read MoreTopics: Design Trends and Ideas, Fireplaces, Project Inspiration