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3 Tips for Renovating Your Primary Bedroom
Your primary bedroom should be a beautiful retreat that feels equally luxurious and peaceful. It should be your private sanctuary where you can start and end your day on a high note, leading to happier and more productive days.
Renovating your primary bedroom is an exciting undertaking that can improve your home and overall well-being. If it's time to transform your primary bedroom into a luxurious suite, here are some things you should include.
Your primary bedroom should be a beautiful retreat that feels equally luxurious and peaceful. It should be your private sanctuary where you can start and end your day on a high note, leading to happier and more productive days.
Renovating your primary bedroom is an exciting undertaking that can improve your home and overall well-being. If it's time to transform your primary bedroom into a luxurious suite, here are some things you should include.
Custom storage solutions
Do you have clothes piled up on your dresser? Laundry thrown in a corner—it's okay—we've seen it all.
One way to fix the mess in your space is by including custom storage in your renovation. This could look like a built-in wardrobe with plenty of shelving and organizational spaces, which could take up a good part of a bare wall. The built-in wardrobe would reflect your space’s overall style and could seamlessly blend into the room.
If your floor plan allows, we could add a walk-in closet if your primary bedroom doesn’t already have one. Some of the older homes here in Birmingham only have small two-tier closets, but with some creativity, we could move things around and create a walk-in closet with plenty of shelving and storage space. You’ll have more than enough room for your clothes, shoes, and maybe even your extra bedding and blankets.
Don’t forget about lighting
Lighting plays a vital role in creating a space that feels relaxing and completes the room's design. In your bedroom, it is a good idea to include layered lighting, which is a blend of three types of lighting: ambient, task, and accent. Each type of lighting serves a specific purpose and will also make your space feel more luxurious.
First, you could install a chandelier above your bed for ambient lighting. This will act as a design focal point around which you can base the rest of your décor choices.
Next, you could install task lighting, like sconces or table lamps, on either side of the bed and above any artwork you may include in your bedroom.
Lastly, for accent lighting, you could include dimmable recessed lighting, allowing you to create an ambiance that makes the space feel soothing and comfortable.
Make it a smart space
While you're renovating, finding ways to include smart technology in your space is a good idea. Some examples in the primary bedroom include smart thermostats, which will allow you to control the temperature so that it's not too warm or too cool when you're ready to head to bed.
Voice-controlled lighting is another feature many homeowners love to include in their primary bedroom so that they don't have to fumble around in the dark. Both of these additions will make life easier and help you save on your utility bills since it will be easier to control energy usage.
Renovating your primary bedroom will require quite a bit of planning. Whether that seems overwhelming or you need a little bit of direction, we are here to help you with the project.
We will discuss your current space and what you hope to achieve, then transform your ideas into a luxurious space to which you can't wait to come home. Give us a call to get the project started.
How to Get Shade on Your Patio
Now that the cicadas seem to have returned to wherever they came from and the weather has been pretty nice, you may be spending more time outside on your deck or patio.
Early mornings and late evenings have been beautiful here in Alabama, but the middle of the day sun can be brutal, so if your outdoor seating area doesn’t have shade, you may want to consider adding some. Let’s look at some awnings and canopies you can add to your outdoor space.
Now that the cicadas seem to have returned to wherever they came from and the weather has been pretty nice, you may be spending more time outside on your deck or patio.
Early mornings and late evenings have been beautiful here in Alabama, but the middle of the day sun can be brutal, so if your outdoor seating area doesn’t have shade, you may want to consider adding some. Let’s look at some awnings and canopies you can add to your outdoor space.
Wood Slat
Thanks to its versatile and timeless look, the wood slat is one of the most popular types of shade fixtures. This type of shade structure can be used in several forms, including pergolas or awnings, or as a privacy fence.
Using reclaimed wood can make this option more eco-friendly, and as long as you treat and maintain the wood properly, it should last for many years.
There are plenty of options when it comes to wood slats. You could opt for light and unfinished wood, which will give your space a more laid-back look, or you could use dark wood for a more classic look.
Both options can be the perfect base to decorate around using lanterns, curtains, and plants to create a beautiful space you can enjoy all year round.
Pergolas with Retractable Canopies
Another great shade option is a pergola with retractable canopies. Pergolas add a functional focal point and structure to your outdoor area. While the canopy is extended, you can shade yourself from harsh UV rays, and once the warmest part of the day is done, you can remove the canopy to give yourself unobstructed views of the sun.
One of the best things about pergolas with retractable canopies is their versatility. With so many different colors and textures of canopies to choose from, this option really allows you to show off your design style while keeping cool.
Green Awnings
If you’re willing to practice some patience, you could consider a green awning made from living plants. For this option, you will want to start with a trellis structure and surround it with climbing plants like ivy or grapevines. These plants will eventually form a roof and create a picturesque shade covering for your patio.
Green awnings provide shade and reduce heat around your home. Dress up the space with twinkle lights and potted geraniums, and your patio will transform into a secret garden perfect for a midsummer soiree.
Sunshade Sails
Similar to retractable canopies, sunshade sails are UV-resistant fabric shades ideal for our harsh Southern climate. With this option, you’ll get coverage from the sun while still allowing air to circulate.
Sunshade sails can be used to provide some shade for your garden, over the pool or patio, or any other spot in the backyard that would benefit from a little protection from the sun.
How would you like to add shade to your backyard? We can help! Give us a call to so we can put some ideas together and allow you to have a more enjoyable outdoor experience this summer.
The Dining Room is Making a Comeback
The popularity of the open-concept home has been declining since the pandemic lockdowns, which made us spend a lot more time inside our houses.
Many people realized they needed defined spaces in their homes instead of one giant room where you cooked, ate, and watched a movie after a long day. One of the spaces that became a rarity during the open-concept movement was the formal dining room.
The popularity of the open-concept home has been declining since the pandemic lockdowns, which made us spend a lot more time inside our houses.
Many people realized they needed defined spaces in their homes instead of one giant room where you cooked, ate, and watched a movie after a long day. One of the spaces that became a rarity during the open-concept movement was the formal dining room.
Well, we are here to tell you that the dining room is making a comeback! If you’ve thought about adding a dining room to your open-concept floorplan, or if you have one that needs to be spruced up, here are some ideas for making the most of the space.
Where to add a dining room
If you have an open-concept space and are thinking about closing it up to create more rooms, you might not be sure where the best spot for each space is.
A formal dining room is typically adjacent to the kitchen since carrying dishes all over the house would be silly. It’s also nice to have the dining room close to the living room since that’s likely where guests will be sitting before and after the meal.
Something to consider, especially if you plan to entertain, is that you may want the dining room to feel more private. If that’s the case, you could add French doors to close off the space from the rest of the house.
Make it a place to gather
The kitchen island has been the gathering spot for the last few years, but it’s time to take things up a notch and gather in a more formal setting. Whether it’s for a big birthday celebration or just a Sunday night family dinner, a dining room is a perfect place for everyone to gather.
Since the dining room will potentially be a place where you host many people, it needs to be spacious enough for everyone to be comfortable on special occasions but still look cozy for everyday meals.
A vibrant color scheme is one way to make a spacious room feel more cozy. Here in the South, we love our wallpaper. Adding a floral pattern paired with wainscotting is a timeless way to make your space look charming and inviting.
But if you like something a little more unique, stay away from the traditional blue and white color scheme and opt for bolder, more vibrant hues like black, tangerine, or emerald green.
Lighting can make a dining room
When you think of a dining room, what’s one of the first things to come to mind? Did you say chandelier? So did we.
A large chandelier in the center of the room is an absolute must in a dining room. This lighting fixture will be a focal point for your room and needs to reflect the style you hope to achieve. Chandeliers come in all different shapes, sizes, colors, and materials, so choosing one you love may take a little bit of time – but it is something that you should put a lot of thought into.
Natural light is another must-have for your dining room. Having at least one large window in the space will allow you to bring the outdoors in and make it feel brighter.
We would love to help you create or transform a dining room. Let’s get in touch to begin!
2023 National Remodeler of the Year!
Elliott Pike receiving the Remodeler of the Year Award at The Nationals in Las Vegas, February 2024
We are thrilled to announce that Elliott Pike, who started ELM Construction, has been honored as the 2023 Remodeler of the Year by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). This prestigious recognition is a testament to Elliott's unwavering dedication and commitment to excellence in the remodeling industry.
Several factors went into Elliott receiving the award, but the most important criterion was client satisfaction. The judges determined that our positive feedback, strong customer testimonials, and consistent repeat business spoke volumes about our work and business practices.
Reflecting on the award, Elliott said, “It’s an incredible honor. If you think how many remodelers are in the country, to be named as the remodeler of the year is really incredible.”
Fulfilling Promises
Elliott's journey with ELM Construction began back in 2008, with just a one-man operation running out of his spare bedroom. Fast forward to today, and ELM Construction is one of the foremost remodeling companies, not just in Alabama, but in the country.
“At ELM Construction, we've always believed in fulfilling our promises,” Elliott emphasized. “Our mantra has been simple: if we commit to something, whether it’s a timeline or a budget, that's what we're going to do. Our clients appreciate that, and that’s what has made us successful.”
Exceptional Team
While Elliott initially laid the foundation for ELM Construction, he said the company’s continued success is all due to his exceptional team. “I think we've got probably one of the best teams in our area,” he remarked proudly. “They all understand they bought into our processes and what we're doing. I am so grateful to be working with such great people.”
Receiving the Remodeler of the Year Award from NAHB is a significant milestone for Elliott, as it represents a heartfelt thank you and an endorsement from his peers in the home remodeling community. "Having your peers recognize what you do is one of the biggest honors you can get."
The selection process for the NAHB’s Remodeler of the Year Award is rigorous, encompassing an in-depth examination of the company's business practices, client testimonials, and references from industry professionals. Out of the multitude of remodelers across the nation, Elliott and his team emerged as the epitome of excellence.
At ELM Construction, we specialize in home remodeling projects of all sizes. Whether you envision a complete home makeover or a simple renovation, we are here to turn your dreams into reality. If you're in the Birmingham area, we invite you to visit our website, ELMbuilds.com, to learn more about our services and get in touch with our award-winning team.
And if you see Elliott, be sure to congratulate him for his well-deserved award!
Working with Your Contractor to Bring Your Vision to Life
One of the best benefits of working with a full-service home remodeling company is the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most highly skilled tradespeople in the industry.
We don't expect you to already have your project's entire design and budget figured out – we all work together to discover what works best for you. Let's look at collaborative design and how it benefits our clients.
What is collaborative design?
Collaborative design is a design approach that focuses on teamwork and communication between the client and the contractors. The goal is to make the entire remodeling project run smoothly, completing it on time and on budget.
During a home renovation, multiple contractors will contribute their efforts to create the home of your dreams.
To avoid miscommunications from occurring, each contractor, along with our designers, schedulers, and project managers, work closely with the homeowner and each other to discuss the project and any concerns that might pop up. Working in this manner will help the project stay on track and keep our clients happy.
What are the benefits of collaborative design?
The remodeling process can be extremely stressful for everyone involved, but we find that using a collaborative approach makes the entire process much more manageable.
Our contractors are hand-picked and bring an abundance of knowledge and experience to our projects. They are the superstars who bring a project to life. The ability to have multiple parties share their ideas and expertise will reduce the risk of delays or mishaps.
Allowing the homeowners to be involved in the process from start to finish will also allow them to feel a sense of pride and ownership in the project. Instead of just writing a check and handing the project over to a contractor, our clients' opinions and suggestions are welcomed and encouraged, which leads to stronger working relationships and a more customized finished product.
When does collaboration begin?
Collaboration begins right away! With all of our clients, we conduct a thorough consultation where we learn all about their wants and needs. We listen to the homeowner's goals and priorities while throwing in some ideas and concerns. That level of communication continues throughout the project.
While your home is under construction, we will conduct regular check-ins and meetings where our clients will be kept up to date on progress, and the clients will share their feedback. This way, the chance of confusion is minimized, and everyone is on the same page.
Let’s get to work!
Working together as a team, we are here to turn your vision into a reality. Please get in touch with us so we can get the process started.
Looking Beyond The Looks: Benefits of a Home Makeover
If you're planning a home makeover, your main goal is likely to make the space look more modern or just create a space that is more your style.
However, renovating a home has far more advantages than just a fresh, new look. Here are some other benefits you can achieve from a home makeover.
Functionality
As a home ages and your family's needs change, you may notice your house just isn't working for you anymore. Fortunately, a home makeover is the perfect opportunity to improve the functionality of a space.
Whether you need more storage or just more space for your growing family to gather, these changes can be addressed during the remodeling process.
One room in the home that is often renovated with functionality in mind is the kitchen. Older homes tend to have smaller, more cluttered kitchens that don't flow well with the rest of the house.
We love to reconfigure the kitchen cabinets and appliances to create a space that makes more sense. If possible, we also like to find space to add a pantry for increased storage that will make your kitchen feel larger and neater.
Another area ripe for transformation is the often-underutilized space beneath staircases. We've found that converting this area into a small office space can add immense functionality to your home.
Energy Efficiency
Not everything in a home renovation will be recognizable, but that doesn't mean details that will make the home more energy efficient should be skipped. Replacing old windows, upgrading insulation, and ensuring any cracks are sealed should be done to keep your home comfortable while keeping heating and cooling usage down.
A home makeover is also a great time to introduce smart home appliances and features into your home. Some popular options are smart thermostats and smart lighting. These upgrades will reduce your energy consumption, which is great for your wallet and the environment.
Increased Property Value
A home renovation is a major investment, but it can significantly increase your home's value if it's done right. Home buyers love homes with shiny, new features, so keeping your home looking modern will make the home-selling process much more enjoyable since your renovated home will likely sell more quickly and for a higher price.
Remodeling key areas of the home, like the kitchen and bathroom will make the biggest difference to your home value. Of course, there's no way to calculate an exact ROI of your renovation since there are so many variables, but the 2023 cost-to-value report shows that a midrange bathroom remodel can recoup 66.7% when the house is sold. Not too shabby!
Health and Safety Benefits
A home remodel will allow you to create a healthier environment for your family. You can do this by choosing non-toxic materials to include in your new space. These materials can improve indoor air quality and are more eco-friendly as well.
Flooring is a material that can have a significant impact on your overall health, so it is crucial to find materials with low VOCs. Some great options are bamboo, synthetic carpeting, and natural stone. Not only are these non-toxic materials, but they are also versatile and can work with just about any design style.
A home makeover is an investment that goes far beyond the aesthetic. It will create a space that makes your life easier and is more personalized to your needs. If you're considering a home makeover, we would love to help you. Give us a call to talk about your project in detail.
Stay Warm and Cozy: Protect Your Home with 4 Simple Tips
After a winter storm here in Alabama, we are reminded that sometimes it does get cold in the South. Since this doesn’t happen often, when it does, you may learn the hard way that your space is not equipped for that type of weather.
To help you prepare for future cold weather events, here are 4 improvements you should make to your home to ensure it is winter-ready.
Replace Your Drafty Old Windows
You would be amazed at how much cold air old windows allow into your home. Not only that, but newer windows can offer extra protection during heavy rain or hailstorms that could cause severe damage.
So, if your windows are more than 15-20 years old or have cracks or damage, it’s a good idea to look into replacing them.
Installing double-paned windows will provide your home with an additional layer of air between its interior and the cold, stormy air outside. These new windows will also look more modern while providing you with a more energy-efficient space, which is excellent news since winter utility bills can be sky-high.
Encapsulate Your Crawl Space
A much-needed but, admittedly, not very exciting improvement you should make to your home is encapsulating your crawl space. It’s estimated that close to half of the air that gets into your home comes through the crawl space… and who knows how many bugs get in through there as well!
Encapsulating your crawl space will seal air leaks, prevent moisture and water intrusion, and improve indoor air quality. Even though you may not be able to see the benefits, you will enjoy them year-round as your home will be much more comfortable.
Make Sure Your Fireplace Is Winter-Ready
When the weather gets crazy here, power outages are not uncommon. If you don’t have a generator, you want to make sure you have a way to heat your home so you aren’t freezing inside your home.
A traditional wood-burning fireplace is a functional and aesthetically pleasing way to heat the home. If you don’t have the space for an actual fireplace, wood-burning stoves are efficient and trendy. They don’t take up a lot of space, but depending on the stove you choose, they can heat up to 2,500 square feet. These will also give your space a vintage and rustic look, acting as a great focal point.
Stock Your Pantry (or Add One If Needed)
When even a small amount of snow means a week stuck in your home due to undrivable roads, you need to stock up on supplies. To stock up on supplies, you need a large pantry or other storage space to keep at least a week’s worth of food, water, and other household necessities.
Fortunately, adding a pantry or expanding one you already have isn’t as challenging as you may think. We love converting an unused coat closet or the awkward space under the stairs into a space for storage. If you don’t have either of those spaces, you could get creative with your kitchen layout and install floor-to-ceiling cabinets to act as a pantry space.
Ready to transform your home to new heights? Connect with us to discuss your project and start your home remodeling journey today.
Natural Materials to Include in Your Home Remodel
Incorporating natural materials in a home renovation has become one of the top trends in recent years. Not only do these materials make a home look warm and inviting, but they are more environmentally friendly, too.
Let’s explore which natural materials you should consider including in your home remodel and where to use them to transform your home.
Wood
If you want a material that is timeless, durable, and versatile, wood should be your top choice. As long as you keep up with maintenance, wood materials will last for as long as you live in the home, which makes them an excellent investment. Wood is also a sustainable choice since it is readily available and can be locally sourced.
Wood can be used in just about any part of the home. Of course, you can include wood floors throughout the home, but you can also install large wood beams on the ceiling of your living room to add more character. It can also be used as countertops in the kitchen, and depending on the finish, they can make the space look rustic or create a warm, vintage-inspired look.
Stone
Natural stone is one of the most popular flooring trends for 2024. Like wood, natural stone is a timeless choice and can be easily incorporated into any design style. This is another durable product that you won't have to worry about replacing or repairing very often as long as it is taken care of.
Some of the top natural stone choices for flooring include slate and travertine. Both options will make a home look and feel sophisticated. For countertops, granite and marble are still ruling the kitchen. These materials have been one of the most highly requested home features for years, and we don't think that will change anytime soon.
Bricks
Bricks aren't just for the exterior of a home, they are a great addition inside too. Brick is surprisingly versatile and will warm up your living spaces. The additional texture will make your space more interesting and inviting.
We love the way brick looks for kitchen flooring, but be warned, it can be challenging to clean. If you want to include brick elsewhere, it looks great as a fireplace surround, but it makes an interesting accent wall as well. Brick can be left exposed or painted to any color of your choice to work perfectly with the rest of your design.
Cork
If sustainability is your key concern, cork should be included in your home remodel. It is a biodegradable and recyclable product that we would love to see used more often. Plus, it's hypoallergenic and odor-free.
Cork can be used as flooring, wall covering, and even on the ceiling. Installing a cork accent wall in a kid's room can make a fun area where they can easily display pictures and artwork that is meaningful to them. This extra texture will make their room look unique while allowing them to showcase their personality.
So, what natural materials would you like to see in your home renovation? Let’s talk.
ELM Construction Celebrates 15th Anniversary
We are proud to announce that ELM Construction is celebrating its 15th anniversary.
What started as a one-man show working out of the master bedroom of his home has grown into an award-winning construction company with a team of professionals providing some of the best home design and remodeling work in Alabama.
Not an Ideal Start
ELM Construction was started on October 28, 2008, out of necessity. 2008 was one of the worst times to start a business since we were in the midst of the Great Recession.
Our founder, Elliott Pike, found himself in a challenging situation as the owner of the company he worked for passed away, which led to the company shutting down. Since finding a new job in 2008 was nearly impossible due to the economic conditions, he decided to take matters into his own hands and start his own company.
Elliott’s first job was an insurance reconstruction for a house that had been damaged by a fire. He made the trek to Gallant, Alabama (about an hour north of Birmingham) every day after an industry acquaintance connected him to the job.
Having those industry connections early on helped get the business running, but constantly adapting to the changing environment and providing quality work has helped the company grow to where it is today.
Embracing Change
We pride ourselves on embracing the latest technology and using it to improve our processes.
Since communication is so essential, we use an online portal where clients can stay updated on their projects. Through the portal, clients have access to contracts and schedules, so they are always in the know, which helps avoid any miscommunication.
Looking ahead to the next 15 years, we will continue to utilize the latest technology to improve our work. And while some are worried about AI, we’re optimistic that the new tool could help with tasks like design and scheduling.
However, at the end of the day, skilled tradespeople will always be needed, and that is an area that will never change.
Simple Core Rule
Our core rule is to “do what you say you’re going to do.” Following this simple rule has been a massive contributor to our success.
It’s as simple as, “If you say you’ll have it done Friday, have it done Friday.”
Doing what we say we will and creating self-imposed deadlines is a great way to establish accountability. This motto has helped us become a top home contractor in Northern Alabama and is one of the many reasons we are known for exceptional work and professionalism.
A Group Effort
We have a lot to be thankful for. The customers who have become our biggest advocates, the trade partners who have been so wonderful to work with, and our team and their families for letting them do what they do.
There are too many people to name. Just know that we appreciate everything you have done to help us to be successful.
Here’s to the next 15 years!
Updating A Mid-Century Home Without Losing Its Charm
If you like midcentury homes, Birmingham and the surrounding area is the place for you. Not only are there dozens of vintage stores that center much of their inventory around the mid-century modern style, but many of the homes in the area are considered to be mid-century modern.
Mid-century modern homes were built between 1945 and 1964 and are known for having clean lines, large windows, and open spaces. While many design elements are still favored by homeowners today, mid-century modern homes can look dated and have areas that aren’t functional in today’s world.
But how do you update a mid-century home without stripping it of its charm? We have a few ideas:
Improve Lighting
Even though large windows in some parts of the home are a key feature of a midcentury home, it’s not unusual to have a lot of really dark spaces. Adding lighting to these spaces will make your home feel larger and more inviting.
We love natural light, so adding windows or a skylight, if possible, is the best idea. If there is no space for either of those options, overhead canned lights or decorative pendant lights will brighten up a space, too.
Add Functional Spaces
Homes built in the post-war era don’t always have the storage and functionality we need today. It’s unlikely in a midcentury home to find a mudroom or spa-like bathroom retreat, which are great for enjoyment as well as keeping your home organized. The good news is it is relatively easy to add these spaces to your midcentury home.
A small addition to your home called a bump-out, may be all the extra space you need to create a more functional home without compromising the style of the home.
This could give you extra room to install a large walk-in closet or to give a small master suite more space to include a larger bathroom. The same can be done in a kitchen or living area to allow you to include a walk-in pantry or maybe an extra coat closet.
Update the Floors
We understand that you may not want to strip your home of all the character and charm that makes it unique, but you don’t want to walk into a time capsule, either. Updating the floors into a more modern take on mid-century flooring can make your space look modern without completely wiping out the character.
Wood floors are an excellent option for living areas and bedrooms in a mid-century modern home. For an updated spin on this timeless flooring choice, you could opt for wide plank wood floors or pale wood floors, which are very trendy at the moment.
For flooring in the bathroom, you could rip out that linoleum and replace it with geometric patterned tiles, which will give the space an updated retro vibe.
Can we help you update your mid-century modern home? Give us a call! We’d love to discuss your project with you.