9 Steps to a Fantastic Kitchen Remodel

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.
Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.
Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.
Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.

Best Process For Kitchen Remodeling

Between choosing appliances, flipping through reference photos, and deciding on a contractor, kitchen remodeling can be a a long and involved process. Following the proper procedure and hiring the right people, however, can lead to an easy installation and a beautiful new kitchen.

1. Decide on Style and Function
Before home improvement can occur, it is important to determine preferred style, desired kitchen layout and individual lifestyle needs. Look at reference photos to get a sense of the different aesthetics from eclectic to traditional. Decide whether the kitchen will be used primarily as a cooking space, or whether it should have a breakfast nook.

2. Make a Budget
Creating a budget helps to determine the scope of a kitchen remodel project. Become educated about the price of cabinets, appliances and materials. This helps narrowing down choices and guides the project towards eventual success.

3. Talk to Professionals
Once a budget and style have been decided, it is time to consult with a professional. Craftsman Home Improvement provides free in-home consultations, and can help people choose color schemes, cabinets, counter tops and more. The Craftsman professionals can also provide bathroom makeover tips, how-to help and answer any other home remodel questions.

4. Financing
When consulting with contractors, remember to inquire about their financing options. At Craftsmen, loans and financing services are available for your Cincinnati kitchen remodel.

5. Design the Kitchen
Once a professional has been hired, it is time to plan the kitchen. This process involves layout, floor plans, space planning and more. Clients and contractors work together to create a kitchen plan that fits within the available budget and suits the client’s wants and needs.

6. Choose Fixtures
Once the essential layout has been determined, it is time to decide on the final details. Choosing light fixtures, flooring, counter tops, refrigerators and more. These choices usually reflect the chosen style, whether it be contemporary kitchen or an old time kitchen.

7. Finalize the Plans
Before the installation can begin, it is important to finalize floor plans and electrical drawings. This ensures that the contractor and client are on the same page about the scope of the project.

8. Installation
A good contractor can install a kitchen quickly and efficiently, with little disruption to a client’s day. During a Craftsmen installation lead installers are always on hand to answer questions, solve problems and guide the installation process to its successful completion.

9. Inspection
Once the installation is complete, the lead installer will inspect the new kitchen to ensure that it fulfills all local codes and that it has been completed to the client’s satisfaction.

Craftsmen works with clients to make their dream kitchens a reality. Consult with a Craftsmen professional to begin a kitchen, basement or bathroom remodel.

Modern Kitchen Design Ideas

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Kitchens are the heart of a home and the center for family activity and communication. In the 21st c., the modern trend has become one of the most popular design styles for home remodels because of its sleek and clean look. This article will discuss some of the ways to achieve the modern look and bring the kitchen back to the 21st c.

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The Open Floor Plan

In the past, kitchens were a place for cooking and homes included living rooms as the space for gathering. Separate kitchens were largely a mark of status in Western cultures. However, the latest designs call for a blending of function. Open floor plans remove the barrier between these two areas in order to maximize space and create a sense of openness. The open floor plan adjusts cabinets, countertops into a way that makes the area seem larger, which makes it perfect for entertaining. Smart storage that maximizes space, open shelving and low drawers are helpful methods to achieve this look.

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Sustainability Meets Technology

The majority of cutting edge designs often utilize organic materials like stone, wood, ceramic, glass or metal to achieve the modern look. However, they also use the latest technology to optimize energy consumption. Concrete countertops and sealed concrete floors make for a surprisingly elegant concept with a small footprint. Many homeowners install special tints to match the concept of the room to make the look more cohesive. Appliances and light fixtures are sleek, clean cut, and make the most of water and energy. Using reclaimed materials for functional surfaces and decoration is a trendy way to optimize modernity while remaining economical.

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Color is Key

White has always been a popular color for modern kitchens because of its ability to give off a feeling of openness. Surprisingly, blue is popping up in more and more contemporary kitchens. These bright colors positioned around a central island or a gracefully curved bar can enhance the cohesiveness of a kitchen. Bright blue and white create an almost optical illusion by making the room look bigger than it actually is. Brightly colored appliances and even silver tiles and fixtures can provide another pop of color and heighten the vibrancy of the space.

Find a Reputable Contractor

These design trends echo the principles established in earlier design periods. However, an open plan kitchen and living room require careful thought and planning. Contracting with a reputable firm such as Craftsmen Home Improvements can ensure that a homeowner’s dream space becomes a reality. The dedicated professionals work with their clients every step of the way to provide accurate budgets, high quality materials and seasoned expertise. Be sure to do research on your contractor before you make your selection. It is important to find a respected and skilled contractor that you can trust.

Contact Craftsmen Home Improvements Request An Estimate

The Importance of Cabinets & Countertops

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Kitchen cabinets and countertops are often the first items that a homeowner will consider changing. Old cabinets can make a house look outdated, and old countertops look worn after years of wear and tear. Replacing cabinets or countertops alone can transform the look and feel of your kitchen. New cabinets and countertops are an expensive change to make in a kitchen, but if it’s in your budget the end results will be worth the price.

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#1: New Cabinets

Cabinets can be ordered from a large company or a local cabinetmaker. Before you purchase new cabinets think about your needs. New cabinets can create more storage space, style and color. Customized cabinets can be made to fit a particular item. Utilize your cabinets in a way that ties in the rest of the kitchen to give the space a unified look. It is important to take the time to research the type of cabinets you want because there are endless options available.

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#2: New Countertops

The right countertop can take a boring, old kitchen and totally transform it. Countertops come in just about every color and style. There are several different materials that are used to create them, and you can choose one that best fits your price range and style. They can be customized to come with a knife block or one that matches the walls. Countertops are one of the most utilized aspects of a kitchen, and if you like to cook a good surface is extremely important.

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#3: Value

Installing cabinets and countertops in your home will increase its value. These elements can give any home a unique style that will stand out in a buyers mind. They can also provide extra storage space which is a big selling point for home buyers.

Adding these additions to your home is an expensive purchase so make sure you are happy with your choices. If you are looking to save money, laminate countertops that mimic the look of granite or quartz provide an elegant look for half the price.

If you’re interested in installing new cabinets or countertops, CRAFTSMEN Home Improvements offers a variety of cabinet and countertop options. The courteous professionals at CRAFTSMEN are always available for consultation, guidance and installation.

Request A Free In-Home Consultation For Your Kitchen Remodel

Advantages of a Finished Basement

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.When it comes to the size of your home, the more space, the merrier. The basement is often the largest room in a home, but if the space is not finished the entire area can go to waste. A finished basement is a cost-effective way to gain a sense of extra square footage without ever adding onto your home. Not only can it make a home feel bigger but it also adds a huge amount of resale value. In fact, finished basements have one of the highest return-on-investment rates of all home improvement projects.

Anyone considering renovating their basement should determine whether or not their budget will allow for it. If a remodel is within the budget, consult a contractor and see how far the budget will go. Remodeling a basement is a big job, and while some jobs are DIY, others require the attention of a professional. A Renovated basement can increase the value of a home if the homeowner is looking to sell. It can also provide a space for entertainment and family fun.

A lot of time homes do not provide big enough rooms for an entire family to gather in comfortably. It can even be difficult for an immediate family to hang out in the same room. Basements can provide this space. Family is very important, and if there isn’t an area for gathering, it can poorly affect a family.

The first step is to look at the size of the basement, and determine how the space should be used. The basement can be a great place to add something to a home that couldn’t go anywhere else. Basements are great places for bars, home movie theaters and even game rooms. If the budget allows, a full or half bathroom should be considered. Bathrooms are high up on potential buyer’s lists, and an extra one can set a house apart  from the rest. The options for an unfinished basement are limitless. Take a look at this list for additional ideas:

  • home gym or spa with sauna
  • media room or home theater
  • home office
  • arcade or game room with billiard and foosball tables
  • guest room with its own bathroom
  • music practice room
  • den or family room (or a more adult space with a wine cellar or bar )
  • “man-cave,” or “woman cave”
  • play room or nursery
  • art studio

The Rewards of Renovation

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.The kitchen is the heart of the home. It provides a functional space for cooking, cleaning and a place for family gathering. These reasons often make the kitchen a deal maker or breaker for buying and selling. With this in mind, what should be taken into consideration for a kitchen renovation?

Whether you’re seeking to put your home on the market or planning to stay another twenty years, design and functionality should be kept in mind. Design trends change over time so it’s best to stick with a traditional approach that don’t go out of style. Stainless steel is always a safe option for appliances, and hardwood floors will never go out of style.

Focus design dollars on counter space, additional storage and light fixtures. These aspects will add beauty to the kitchen while providing functional value. Potential buyers often look for a stylish kitchen that works together to increase productivity.

Look at your space and ask yourself the following questions: Do the countertops and storage spaces work together or do they create confusion? Are the appliances updated? Do the light fixtures provide effective light and highlight the best features? What impressions do the light sources give? Are they functional? How worn is the flooring material and is an update needed?

If it’s time to update your kitchen you’ll have lots of choices to make when it comes to materials. Decide what is most important to you. Is it price, quality or durability? If your main concern is price, there are plenty of attractive options out there that won’t be too hard on the wallet. Granite and quartz are beautiful options for countertops, but there are laminate surfaces available that mimic their looks for half the price. If you’ve always wanted hard wood floors in your kitchen, but it’s not in the budget, alternative floors exist that give the look.

There are several remodeling projects in the kitchen that are DIY, such as, painting. Depending on your skill level, determine the projects you can do yourself because this will save you a lot of money in the end. However, jobs involving lighting, flooring and cabinetry require the attention of a specialist.  Find a contractor who is committed to giving you the kitchen you want.

Whether you are looking to increase the value of your home or just craving a change, you will gain a lot from a kitchen renovation. Go with a timeless style that you’ll never get tired of. Determine your budget and stick to it, by choosing materials that agree with your wallet. Most importantly, always practice safety while remodeling and know when it is appropriate to call on a professional. Contact Craftsmen Home Improvements Inc., for any questions, comments or concerns about remodeling.

Countertop materials – What’s your best choice?

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.It used to be true that there were only a few materials available for kitchen countertops and everyone had some variation of them in their home. Now there is a dizzying array of materials and designs at the ready for every taste and budget. Here are few of the top countertop materials and the pros and cons of using them in the home.

Granite: For years, granite has been the top-shelf choice for kitchen countertops. It is a natural stone distinguished by veining and variations which enhance its attractiveness. Much beloved for its beauty and design impact, granite can be expensive. It is a porous material and must be sealed to keep from being stained from fluids. Granite is durable and heat resistant, but can crack or chip if a heavy object is dropped on it.

Quartz: Quartz, also known as engineered stone, is a top rated countertop material. It is durable, not porous and does not need to be sealed, but requires protection from heat and can be difficult to repair if damaged. This material is made from resin and quartz chips which have been artificially colored. Engineered stone countertops are popular for their beauty and offer a good alternative to granite.

Marble: Marble is an ultra-traditional choice for countertops. A completely natural stone, it has a wide range of natural patterns which increase its elegance as a design choice. It is the go-to stone for pastry chefs, who prize it for its natural coolness which keeps dough from becoming tough. Unfortunately, even when sealed, marble can stain, scratch and chip.

Stainless steel: In complete contrast to marble, as its name suggests, stainless steel is impervious to staining. It cleans up marvelously and is preferred for its antimicrobial properties in institutional and high traffic countertops. As a design choice, it does have a minimalist cachet, but requires frequent cleaning to eliminate fingerprint smudges.

Soapstone: Soapstone countertops are familiar to many as the material of choice in their high school chemistry laboratories. This material resists stains well, yet requires regular oiling. It blends well with a range of decors, but can crack and require costly repair.

Laminate: Laminate is a manufactured material made of resins blended into paper and fused onto particle board. As a kitchen countertop staple for decades, it has lacked style quality in the past, but new designs mimic more expensive materials with impressive results. It is affordable, low maintenance and easy to clean, but it can be susceptible to burns and scratches.

Concrete: With new fabrication technologies which make it lighter than ever before, concrete has come into its own as a countertop material. Inlays of shells and rocks can make it a unique design choice. And concrete has some impressive energy-friendly qualities: it absorbs heat when the room is hot, cooling it off. And when the temperature drops, concrete releases its heat back into the room to warm it.

Wood: Wood countertops create a warm, traditional look for kitchens. Wood is resistant to heat, so hot pots and pans can be rested on it. But wood requires sealing to be clean and safe for cutting meat products. As with all natural products, wood can be pricey, but creates its own look of luxury when used in the kitchen.

Glass: Glass countertops create a clean, sleek modern look and have the advantage of being able to be cut into any shape and stained to any color. Due to this flexibility, this material can be adapted to any choice of décor. Since it is non porous, glass is easy to clean and stain resistant. But it’s still glass and needs to be tempered and be at least one inch thick to be durable in the kitchen.

Paper Composite: Paper composite is a newer countertop material made by mixing resin with paper fibers to create an eco-friendly and surprisingly durable surface. It withstands heat and water, and is naturally lighter than stone or concrete. Paper composite countertops are prone to chemical damage and need to be oiled with mineral oil (and require occasional sanding) to maintain the surface. Even though it seems like a paper product would be a budget-conscious choice, this material is somewhat expensive, which has limited its popularity.

Tile: Tile countertops are made with ceramic, glass and porcelain tile in an extensive range of styles and colors, which can be further mixed and matched to produce an almost infinite variety of patterns. Tile must have sealed grout to be easy to clean. And if tiles become uneven they can be cracked or chipped if cookware is dragged over the surface. In terms of budget, the tile is not necessarily expensive, but installation can be pricey, so homeowners need to cost out the entire project before making a decision.

The many varieties of countertop materials present homeowners with an opportunity to make unique design decisions. To get advice on your countertop, visit us online at Craftsmen Home Improvements.

Tiles – Always in Good Taste

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Tiles have been used in building and interior decoration since ancient times. In Lisbon, tiles called azulejos decorate walls throughout Portugal. Especially prevalent in Lisbon, these glazed tiles are found in churches, on palace walls and on the walls of old buildings. Highly decorated, these 17th and 18th century azulejos are highly figured, with animals, and sometimes historical scenes. Earlier azulejos have characteristic blue and white tones, while later tiles were made in many colors. They grace city walls to this day, showing us that tiles have been used in décor for many centuries, with stunning results.

Today, tiles are versatile, durable and come in a range of materials and sizes, making tile a popular material for a variety of home remodeling applications. Tiles are used in kitchen backsplashes, showers, floors, and even countertops. For floors, especially those with heavy traffic patterns, durability is key. Also for floors, the coefficient of friction (COF) makes a difference – if the COF is too low, the tile will be too slippery for the floor, but could be used successfully on a wall. For other areas where things get wet, like a kitchen backsplash, low porosity is important. Here are some of the important factors to consider when choosing tile materials for your home remodeling.

Ceramic: Ceramic tiles, like all ceramics, are made up of a pressed clay base which may be glazed or not, but is then fired at high heat. Unglazed tiles have colors which go all the way through. This means these tiles will maintain their pattern even if placed on the floor in a high traffic area – the tile will become worn down, but the pattern will remain. Today’s glazed ceramic tiles are coated with a liquid glass formulation, which gives a high shine. The glazing can help in stain and scratch resistance and provide easy clean up.

Porcelain: Porcelain tiles are a ceramic tile made from a mix of minerals and fine clays, which are fired at extremely high temperatures. Porcelain tiles are hard and dense, which enables them to tolerate heavy use either indoors or outdoors. With through-bodied porcelain tiles, the design goes all the way to the bottom of the tile, which helps hide any chips or scratches. This type of porcelain tile is typically not glazed. Glazed porcelain tiles are covered in a hard, colored finish that results in an extensive array of designs and colors. These tiles are easy to clean, but are very cool to the touch, so unless radiant heat is installed beneath them, they can be cold on bare feet and not very comfortable to stand on for extensive periods of time. The grout for these tiles can stain, and the tiles themselves can crack.

Stone: Stone tiles are a luxurious choice for natural elegance. They last for decades but are cold, which necessitates radiant heat for bathroom applications. The type of finish depends upon design requirements, but matte or honed finishes can provide more traction. To reduce their slippery characteristics, slip-minimizing type finishes are used on some stone tiles. Protective sealing, and with age, resealing, is needed for most stone tiles.

Here are a few types of stone tiles:

  • Granite: comes in a wide range of colors and patterns; extremely hard
  • Slate: extremely durable and comes in an array of shades
  • Limestone: available in light beiges, white and neutrals, this is a very smooth sedimentary stone.
  • Marble: a rich, luxury surface with veining and crystals that make it prized as a design feature

It’s very important to have a rigid subfloor which is smooth and flat to create a good installation surface for stone tile. This type of installation can be tricky; it may not be for the do-it-yourself handyman.

Vinyl: Vinyl is the lower cost option for flooring. These are used extensively in baths and kitchens. They can be purchased as easy-to-install tiles that imitate more expensive stone tiles but at a much lower cost. Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT) contains proportionately larger amounts of limestone and is less expensive than Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT). LVT is manufactured with more vinyl, which gives it better performance characteristics as well as a more realistic effect. Available in all colors and sizes, these tiles can be installed in patterns to enhance the design effect. Sheet vinyl is the seamless alternative found in wet areas like bathrooms. Vinyl planks, made to look like hardwood, are designed to include a look of real wood in the bath area, while maintaining a water resistant surface.

No matter what type of tile is best for your remodeling needs, be sure to visit our visit us online at Craftsmen Home Improvements, or call us for a consultation on your remodeling project. Cincinnati: 513-942-6300513-942-6300; Dayton: 937-299-5201937-299-5201.

Planning a Bathroom Remodel?

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When thinking about remodeling your bathroom a few things should be at the top of your list. We can help you get the style you want at a price you can afford. The trick is to pay attention to a few details while you’re in the planning phase. To stretch your budget, you can look for less expensive alternatives for some items so you can include the luxury details you really want.

Cultured marble vanities can also be less expensive than actual stone. Sold as an integrated unit with the sink and counter top together, these vanities can cut down on installation costs. And be sure to think about the practicalities of who will use your bath. It is more economical to install a double sink during your remodel now, so you won’t have to think of adding an additional bath later on. Thinking ahead to accommodate the future needs of your growing family can make your bathroom remodel practical for years to come. And avoiding a future remodel is certainly the most cost-effective choice.

For instance, many of our customers who are doing a bathroom remodel ask for ceramic tiles. But did you know that fiberglass tub surrounds are often a less expensive alternative? Choosing them can free up your budget to splurge on other details. On the other hand, there are ways we can make tile showers more affordable for you: be sure to ask us for details. And today’s tile showers are easier to take care of than they used to be. The advanced grouts of today need not be sealed and we use actual sheets of concrete behind the tile (instead of drywall) so if water ever gets behind the tile, the wall will stay intact.
 Remember – the important thing about planning your remodel is to consider all the alternatives – and we know how to help you do it! 
Call for a free in-home consultation for your bathroom remodel in Cincinnati or Dayton. We will come to your home and evaluate your needs and make a plan so you can have the bathroom of your dreams. Cincinnati: 513-942-6300513-942-6300; Dayton: 937-299-5201937-299-5201.

Prepare for Spring with a New Bathroom

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.As lives become more hectic, a relaxing retreat holds tremendous appeal for our customers. One of the biggest trends for 2014 is remodeling the bathroom to create an in-home spa experience. Designs open out the bathroom space and feature clean, streamlined contemporary elements. Large walk in showers with multiple shower heads and frameless enclosures create the look of an upscale resort. Glass tiles sparkle and make your bath appear larger. Custom storage is used to maintain a clutter-free look and enhance the overall design. Radiant heated floors can provide additional warmth and add a touch of luxury. Throughout, rich textures and neutral earth tones help create an experience of serenity and peace in your own home. The following are great tips for remodeling your bathroom.

Planning for your spa

To help you get the beauty of a spa-style bathroom, Cincinnati and Dayton consultants can help you plan your remodeling project from start to finish. You can look through a wide array of fixtures and materials. We have years of experience and will help you think through the process of what you want so your fixtures and finishes will work together to create a good functional flow as well as a beautiful environment. We can work with you to create a spa bathroom in Cincinnati or Dayton that will be an oasis of tranquility for you and your family.

Showers – elegant and open

Walk in showers are a big trend for the spa bathroom, and many of our customers have eliminated tubs from at least one bathroom in Cincinnati or Dayton homes. These newer walk in showers are spacious and often feature sparkling glass tiles. With frameless enclosures and curbless walk in features, even a larger shower can continue the streamlined, clean look of your bathroom design. Imagine enjoying multiple shower heads in your spacious walk-in shower then stepping out and picking up a towel off your heated towel rack. Designs often use the same natural stone for walls and floors as well as countertops, which adds to the feel that the bathroom is one continuous space. Using this feature, even smaller bathrooms will feel larger and more open.

Standalone tubs

As the popularity of walk in showers increases, so does the use of standalone tubs. You might think a standalone tub would be less expensive, but many of our customers find that these high end tubs do not substantially lower remodel costs for a bathroom in Cincinnati or Dayton. But standalones can use less space than a tiled in tub deck. And if you choose a large jetted tub, which can hold 75 gallons or more, you may also want to consider a dedicated hot water heater. A dedicated hot heater will ensure you don’t overextend your main water heater.

At Craftsmen, we love helping you create the spa bath you want in your home. To see all that we offer, you can visit us online at Craftsmen Home Improvement Inc. Or, for your free in-home consultation to remodel your bathroom in Cincinnati or Dayton, call us at 513-942-6300513-942-6300.

4 Easy Ways to Update your Bathroom

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At Craftsmen, we can do a major bathroom remodel which will completely overhaul the entire room. But you may want to plan your bathroom remodel so you can do a few easy things right now and do more extensive updating down the road. The key is to do things that will create dramatic impact, but not interfere with your later remodeling. Feel free to call Craftsmen for advice. In the meantime, here are a few suggestions.

Change your Color Palette

For a quick bathroom remodel, we find that changing the wall color can have an immediate impact. You need to be careful with your color palette, though. Newer palettes are trending towards whites, grays and charcoal greens with a pop of accent color. Overall, neutrals help enlarge a space, while your accent color, if carefully applied, can be changed later. Using too much or too bold of an accent color may overwhelm your bathroom.

Cabinets and Vanities

When we design a bathroom remodel, a quick fix can be to add freestanding and hovering cabinets and vanities. Since they are space-saving, they are often preferred for smaller bathrooms and can make the space seem larger. With their rise in popularity, there is a wider range of styles available, and some of the new stand-alone vanities have excellent storage capacities.

High Quality Faucets

Another quick fix is to update your faucets. Faucets come in an amazing variety of finishes including stainless, chrome, and bronze. Although faucets may seem a small detail, they can add a design accent that will update your look. Touch-less faucets continue to be popular in any bathroom remodel, since they are convenient for young and old alike and are eco-friendly. Since they conserve water, our customers say they notice savings in their water bills.

Light Fixtures and Mirrors

Improving your lighting can brighten your bathroom right away. The important thing to remember is to choose quality fixtures that will add a design focus while still harmonizing with other elements in your space. Above all, lighting has to be functional, so make sure the areas around your mirror are well lit. And if you want to make a temporary change on the way to your major bathroom remodel, we are seeing a wide variety of mirrors being used as accent pieces in bathroom décor, so come in and look at what we have to offer. At Craftsmen, we are happy to help you plan your bathroom remodel in Cincinnati or Dayton. To see all that we offer, you can visit us online at Craftsmen Home Improvement Inc. Or, for your free in-home consultation to remodel your bathroom in Cincinnati or Dayton, call us at 513-942-6300513-942-6300.