Remodeling Design Tips

5 Cost-Effective Strategies

1. Skip the whirlpool tub.
Who has time for a bath? Bypass the tub and spend your remodeling dollars on something you'll notice every day: a luxury shower with dual heads.

2. Maximize storage.
Install an organizational system in the space beneath the stairs so you can utilize the otherwise wasted space.

3 Leave out the planning desk.
In a kitchen, people insist on putting planning desks in, but no one ever sits there and plans anything. Consider whether you'd benefit more from additional cabinets.

4. Connect spaces.
Looking for a project with big impact? Opening up walls and hallways is one way to get the most from your remodeling project—and create more livable spaces.

5. Don't share the mudroom.
Everyone wants a main-floor laundry room. If it's squeezed into a tiny area near the garage, though, homeowners often are unhappy in the long run. Rather, create separate mudroom and laundry room areas, even if that means moving the laundry room down to the basement.