Rendered Homes

09/07/2026

09/04/2026

FYI Friday! And a Happy Holiday one!
Did you know the type of remodel you have might be classified as either A: Pull and Replace or B: Redesign and rebuild?

Sometimes understanding these options make the difference when you are looking at Budget and Timing. And let's face it those are our pretty immediate questions. How much and How long does it take?
Pull and Replace: Update existing fixtures and leave major walls and plumbing in place.
Redesign and rebuild: Often involves moving walls, plumbing, windows/doors.
Whether it is is your timing or budget the rule of thumb can be helpful to keep in mind. Plan ahead for a 2-3 week cushion if something is back ordered or an inspector or tradesperson gets held up. For Budget it is common to plan for the "custom" item or "would be nice to add" items. This can range but 10%-15% for a Pull and Replace and often 15%-20% for a Redesign and rebuild. Unforeseen construction issues and those items you fall in love with can be a bit more palatable.

Photo for reference of a "Pull and replace." The short knee wall was reworked but did not involve plumbing or electrical only 2x4 framing. The plumbing hook ups and shower drain stayed in the same locations. New tile, quartz slab, and shower doors uplifted this look!

Have a relaxing Labor day for all!

09/04/2026

Some dreams come to reality with a little help of a great team effort. After a bad leak prompted some calls into action for a new bathroom design and remodel, &ECarpentry and a truly remarkable result came about with satisfied clients! In this “Pull and replace” bathroom an old corner garden tub was removed for a freestanding soaking tub. His and Hers vanity replaced with Wolf Vanity from Mongers and MSI quartz from Massanutten Marble and Granite. The major piece was the NEW shower with more open and refreshing feeling as a shower should be!

08/28/2026

Friday FYI: Banquettes or Bench seating in Kitchen, Mudroom and Bathroom.

Corner seating and bench seating can be space savers for an eat in kitchen, and shower bench seats an area of safety and relaxation. Mudroom benches do have options for closed storage or open space grab and go.

Check out the visuals and some tips for dimension, support and planning ahead for these zones. Give Rendered Homes a call for extra special care and planning for your new project!

08/21/2026

✨ FYI Friday! ✨ Did you know these kitchen fold away doors are also called pocket doors? Not the ones with the sliding track you see for bathrooms. With the right planning you can design these cabinet doors for things like coffee and tea stations, butler’s pantry, hall tree and locker benches, and even wheelchair access under a sink.
Extra care is given to understand the fold back depth, width and type of use needed for best results.
Do you prefer hiding special items or leaving them out? Proudly display colorful KitchenAid mixers and dishes?

Next week we look closely at eat-in bench areas.
Do you have a question at the top of your mind about your kitchen and bath ideas? Let me know!

08/06/2026

Shower seats! Does your shower space benefit from a bench, a corner tiled seat, a moveable seat or a fold down seat?
All the versions have pros and cons we can review what fits your needs!

✅Bench seat with a solid upper slab instead of tile can be easier to clean but feel a little chilly initially.

✅Angled space for your legs is more comfortable than a straight down bench face and easier use for aging in place consideration.

✅ Corner tiled seats or slab be cantilevered to maximize your floor space but consider your reach and cleaning underneath.

✅ Moveable wooden teak seats offer best versatility for small spaces but consider best sturdy bench style legs.

✅Fold down wall attached seats can do double duty with an easy out the way option. Make sure aging in place considerations are met with grasp, pull and push ability.

All that said let’s pair it with a foot rest for shaving and a grab bar for steadiness!
Let’s chat about your shower remodel

07/29/2026

Another sneak peek and more coming soon with final finished details like reeded glass, pendants and appliances.

I wanted to sit and stay a while to take it all in. It’s no surprise to me as I did a walk through because I felt it too but wonderful to hear the homeowner say, “I’m so glad we did it!”

Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to get a renovation underway. Let Rendered Homes help you fine tune the details between your vision, design and your contractor to help make the process smooth.

07/27/2026

This throwback to the sweetest and most peaceful local, lovely bed and breakfast! By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages! Their reviews speak for itself “immaculate, nicely decorated, sweetest owners.”
But check out these inspiring designs that we worked on with Sustainable Solutions.

Our goal was individualized room theme and from my favorite “Red Bud” to “Sugar Maple” and “Iris Room”
These botanical and nature inspired main house rooms are beautiful and restful spaces
you must check out…. Maybe even for JMU Parent’s Weekend?

This spring Rendered Homes had the opportunity to design and assist once again for the owners in the design of their spaces for the popular Historic Garden Week: Home and Garden Tour. I’m inspired by the owners own design sense and feel blessed to having moments like these.

📷: Anna Bergey, Realtor

07/25/2026

Millenial Gray’s preceding trend was termed sad beige but even the Gen Z Brown or Green will have their rotation.

As the cycles do their thing why not find what makes your spark or helps you feel calm and confident about the tried and true color you have in mind?

A key tip is in the color family and interesting texture pairing or accent to make your beloved color stay balanced and refreshing.

These are a few examples of the beige and gray (why not call it Greige) that have some interesting color pairings!

Gray, Black and Cream for highlight contrast
Gray and Teal for mood
Gray and Orange for fresh kick
Gray with Lavender or Royal purple for elegance

07/24/2026

A fun Kitchen Version of these 5 "Before and After" photos for this Friday afternoon.
Ask us about how this magic happens with a quick call and visit to our studio! Let us help with all the big and little picture things to make your vision come into view for your remodel. Have a great weekend!