Author: @fl@nsburg

Mastering the Art of the Home Addition: Navigate the Process with Confidence

Written by @fl@nsburg on July 30, 2024. Posted in NJ Home Improvement, NJ home remodeling.

In today’s cutthroat real estate market where homes are being sold faster than families can tour them, buying your dream house might be more difficult than you thought. Because of this, many homeowners are turning to a more viable solution by investing in an addition to transform their current space into the forever home their family needs.

A custom addition is the perfect solution if you already love your neighborhood and commute and are looking for a less expensive alternative to buying a brand-new house. Additions give you the power to create a space that truly fits your family’s lifestyle, rather than tying you down to what’s available in the real estate market.

Wondering how you can make it happen? An experienced design-build team like Flansburg can help you navigate through these four steps.

Step One: Make a Plan and Build a Budget. Careful planning at the start of your custom addition project will help ensure a smooth process and results designed to exceed your expectations. At Flansburg, all of our projects begin with a consultation where we discuss the pain points of your current space, your dream home vision, and design styles you love. We’ll also talk about your budget and come up with a number for the entire project that you feel comfortable with.

Step Two: Choose the Right Professionals. Selecting experienced designers, planners, and craftsmen is vital to your project’s success. As a design-build firm, Flansburg has a team in place of some of the best in the business. Our trusted partners produce high-quality results according to your exact specifications outlined during the planning process. At the beginning of your project, we’ll assign a designated project manager to coordinate and communicate with everyone on the job site. They’ll also provide you with regular updates and will be available to answer any of your questions.

Step Three: Navigate the Zoning Process. Before any work begins onsite, you’ll need to ensure your custom addition adheres to local zoning requirements. We’ll help you understand your area’s zoning rules early on in the design-build process. Some projects, like work on historic homes or on protected land, may have more stringent restrictions, but Flansburg’s experienced team can design a plan that will satisfy your property’s unique zoning requirements, and help you avoid costly project delays or redesigns.

Step Four: Integrate Design and Construction. The best way to approach a custom addition is with an integrated design-build approach, which ensures cohesion from initial design concepts and budgeting to construction to final touches. With one team working on your build from start to finish, you can expect a space that is exactly what you envisioned.

Whether you want to create some more space for your family to enjoy until you move later on, or if you want to turn your current house into a forever home, a custom addition can turn your vision into a livable reality—no real estate agents required. The Flansburg team is here to help you navigate the design-build process from start to finish as you take on your addition project. Ready to get started? Schedule a consultation today and together we’ll explore the possibilities of expanding your space!

4 Features You Should Include in Your Luxury Bedroom Remodel

Written by @fl@nsburg on July 9, 2024. Posted in NJ Home Improvement.

When you hire renovation contractors in NJ to transform your home, you can’t forget to include one of the most important spaces: your primary bedroom! After all, you spend quite a bit of time here. It’s where you rest after a long day and where you lay your head at night to re-energize for the next day. With that said, you want your space to be uniquely you, with features that will make you fall in love with your bedroom again. At Flansburg Construction, we are highly skilled in delivering results that our clients love. Check out our portfolio to see examples of our work. Let’s take a look at some of the top features we’d love to include in your bedroom remodel.

1. Custom Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important features of any space, as it sets the mood and can enhance the overall aesthetic of your space. A popular option is smart lighting systems. These systems can be installed throughout your bedroom and your entire home. It will allow you to easily control your lights through your voice, apps, or traditional switches. Customization can take it even further, with endless colors available to set the mood exactly how you want it.

Our clients love to include layered lighting in their bedrooms. This could include elegant chandeliers, wall sconces, and bedside lamps. Dimmable lights can further enhance the mood and offer more customization, including color temperature and brightness.

2. Elegant Furniture

Opt for furniture that will seamlessly blend style and functionality while complementing the rest of your space. A statement bed with a beautiful wooden headboard or canopy design can serve as the focal point of the room. Our renovation contractors will work with you to choose stylish furniture, including bedside tables, dressers, and even armchairs. Opt for pieces crafted from materials like solid wood and marble.

3. Walk-In Closet

Consider having our renovation contractors build a spacious walk-in closet, a hallmark of every luxury bedroom. We will install custom shelving, drawers, and hanging spaces to ensure every item has a place, reducing clutter and improving your overall experience. We can even incorporate a dressing area within your closet, with features like a full-length mirror, plenty of lighting, a seating area, and more. When completed with high-end finishes like glass doors and velvet-lined drawers, your new closet may become your favorite part of your remodel.

4. Connected, Spa-Like Bathroom

To further enhance the feeling of luxury, consider having our renovation contractors build a connected spa-like bathroom. Features such as a large tub, rain shower, and double vanities complete the space. High-end materials like marble or granite are very popular for luxury renovations. Heated floors, towel warmers, and smart mirrors further enhance comfort and convenience. According to Houzz, 40% of homeowners use their bathroom to relax, so connecting one to your bedroom is a great choice.

Ready to get started with a design build team that can completely transform your home? Look no further than Flansburg Construction! As one of the top remodeling experts in New Jersey, we have the team and experience to craft the bedroom you’ve always dreamt of. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

4 Renovations That Make Your Home Office Feel Bigger

Written by @fl@nsburg on July 5, 2024. Posted in NJ Home Improvement.

Does your home office feel cramped and small? Do you want the space to feel bigger when working each day? Whether you already have a home office or your space could be repurposed for one, a home renovation contractor in NJ can help you get a bigger office with just a few changes. Let’s take a look at a few ways to make your home office feel bigger.

1. Expanded Lighting

Lighting can make any room in your home feel much bigger than it actually is. Adding more lighting throughout the room can ensure the room illuminates your entire workspace. You can add recessed ceiling lights to save space and create a more modern and clean look. You can even add undercabinet lighting to your desk to illuminate the area. There are so many great ways to brighten up your office.

2. New Windows and Window Placements

Along with artificial lighting, natural lighting is an essential part of any room in your home. Larger windows that bring in more natural light can make the space feel larger and more inviting. Natural light can even help you feel happier and less stressed when working each day. According to a survey by Future Workplace, over 1,600 employees ranked “access to natural light and views of the outdoors” as their number one desire for a workplace environment. Additionally, having a greater view of the beautiful scenery outside can lift your mood and help you feel closer to nature.

3. Built-In Furniture

Built-in furniture can make the room feel more spacious while adding a layer of functionality that an office demands. Our top-tier home renovation contractor can install corner desks that are built into the wall to free up central space. Our team can even add floating shelves to ensure that you have enough storage for all your work essentials. With so many options for built-in furniture, the possibilities are endless. We’ll be happy to discuss any possible installations we can help you with.

4. Smart Storage Solutions

Depending on what you do for work, you probably have a lot of documents and work essentials around your office. With so many items, it’s important that you think about smart storage solutions. Vertical space is a really important and popular way to get more storage without making the environment feel cramped. You can even add cabinets that go up to the ceiling to ensure that you have all the storage that you need.

According to the Design-Build Institute of America, the design build industry is anticipated to account for as much as 47% of construction spending over the next few years. As design build services become more popular, make sure you invest in a renovation for your home office with help from a home renovation contractor soon! As one of the most reliable remodeling companies in New Jersey, we want to ensure that your home office is your work sanctuary. Our team has years of experience delivering comprehensive remodels for the entire home, so don’t hesitate to connect with Flansburg Construction to get started on your remodeling project.

5 Reasons Homeowners Are Choosing In-Law Suite Home Additions

Written by @fl@nsburg on July 3, 2024. Posted in NJ Home Improvement.

As you age, so do your parents. More homeowners in New Jersey are looking to invest in in-law suite home additions to ensure the independence of aging family members while keeping them close. Here are five key reasons why more families are choosing this renovation option.

1. Versatility

While your parents or in-laws may not be ready to move into an in-law suite quite yet, it’s not too early to get started on this excellent home addition. In-law suites include a private bedroom, a living area, a kitchen, and a bathroom. Our design build team specializes in constructing these spaces so individuals of all ages can utilize them. When friends or family are in town, they can stay in this beautiful and private suite. It’s a versatile area that can be used before aging adults move in.

2. Independence

When your parents or in-laws age, it’s important to maintain their independence while remaining in close proximity in the event an emergency happens. With an in-law suite attached to your home, aging adults can remain independent with a private entrance and their own dedicated living space. Many homeowners enjoy these home additions because they’re carefully crafted with your family’s specific needs in mind. Your loved ones will appreciate your dedication to their livelihood.

3. Quality Time

As family members age, quality time together becomes a priority. When you hire a professional remodeling company to construct a luxury in-law suite, your parents or in-laws will have their own privacy while having the opportunity to spend time with your family. Planning family dinners and evenings out becomes easier with everyone living on one property.

If you have children, having grandparents nearby is an excellent way for your entire family to spend more time together. When it’s time for a date night, your loved ones can spend an evening with their grandchildren without having to travel! The benefits cannot be understated.

4. Home Value

According to HomeLight, homes with an in-law suite in large cities are priced about 35% more than those without one. In-law home additions provide practicality for all members of your family in addition to offering monetary value. When you go to sell your home down the road, families will love the simplicity of buying a property that already has an in-law suite.

5. Accessibility

When it comes to living spaces for aging adults, accessibility is crucial. Wide doorways, hardwood flooring, quality lighting, grab bars in bathrooms, and ramps become important and necessary features. Remodeling contractors with years of experience crafting luxurious yet accessible spaces will ensure your loved one’s needs are met in their in-law suite. Our design build experts will work alongside you throughout the renovation process so that every feature is perfect.

Our design build firm in New Jersey is here to create a private and comfortable space for your aging loved ones. We will accommodate your family’s needs from beginning to end, ensuring the remodeling process is stress-free. Take a look at our project gallery to see examples of our in-law suite home additions. Ready to add an in-law suite to your home? Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

Gas vs. Induction: Which Cooktop is Best for Your Kitchen Renovation?

Written by @fl@nsburg on June 25, 2024. Posted in Kitchen Remodeling, NJ Home Improvement.

Aside from gorgeous countertops, decorative backsplashes, custom cabinetry and upgraded hardware, the true heroes of a kitchen renovation are the pieces that help the space function smoothly daily. Whether it’s a perfectly laid-out pantry, a convenient beverage bar, or a set of innovative appliances, incorporating high-performance elements is the key to creating a space that truly fits your needs.

When designing a kitchen, a high-performing cooktop or range is absolutely essential—but home chefs are often very divided when it comes to choosing between a gas or induction model. Both have pros and cons that are worth exploring before making the investment in such an integral kitchen appliance.

Gaining Ground: The Induction Cooktop

For years, range options were limited to gas or electric, but recently a third option is becoming more and more popular—the induction cooktop. More energy-efficient, induction cooktops consist of a glass surface with heating coils that use electromagnetic energy activated by the iron in your pots and pans. As a pan makes contact with the surface, the iron particles excite, generating heat. This method differs from traditional gas or electric models because there is no heat transfer from the burners to the pan—which means that the cooktop itself is always cool to the touch, and you never have to wait for the burner to heat up before you begin cooking. Some benefits of this latest method in cooking technology include:

Precise Heating. Induction cooktops heat—and cool—much faster and more precisely than alternate methods, which means home chefs can enjoy a more even heat in the pan and a reduced risk of overcooking.
Safety. Because induction cooktops don’t have exposed heating elements, the risk of burns and fire hazards is significantly lower. This is often a major benefit for families with young children. In addition, the air quality is better when using the induction method due to the lack of gas fumes.
Energy Efficiency. Thanks to the elimination of heat transfer between the burner and pan, induction cooktops won’t give off excess heat in the kitchen—so no need to crank up the AC as you make dinner on a hot summer day.
Ease. An induction cooktop’s glass surface is so easy to clean because it stays cool during the cooking process—so no burned-on spills to scrub.
Discrete. Another benefit of induction cooktops is that they can be hidden beneath countertop surfaces so that they are hidden when not in use. With an under-counter induction cooktop, there’s no need to disrupt the clean lines of a gorgeous quartz counter surface with an appliance. For homeowners who enjoy a streamlined, contemporary design aesthetic, this is the ideal kitchen appliance solution.

While there are so many benefits to switching to an induction cooktop, there are a few drawbacks worth considering as well:

Price. Compared to gas or electric options, induction cooktops are expensive, with prices starting around $1,000, more if you choose to hide the appliance beneath the counter. It’s worth noting, however, that because induction uses less energy overall, you can expect to save money down the road.
New Cookware. For the best results, you’ll likely need to replace your cookware to ensure an even heat. Stainless steel works well, but check for an “induction safe” indication before you buy.
Maintenance. Unless they’re hidden beneath a countertop, induction cooktops are glass and therefore have the potential to scratch. Best practice suggests choosing pots and pans with smooth bottoms, refraining from sliding your cookware across the surface, and staying away from abrasive cleaners.
A Learning Curve. A product like this that offers a precise and even heat requires very specific pan placement, which can be tricky to get the hang of at first. If the pan isn’t perfectly centered or sitting evenly on the cooktop’s surface, the system can turn off before cooking is complete. In addition, the quick heat means that food can overheat faster than expected. For you home chefs who are accustomed to cooking over a gas flame, we recommend watching a few tutorials to learn best practices.

Tried and True: Cooking with Gas

Gas cooktops, the preferred method for amateur and professional chefs alike, have a reputation for a superior cooking experience. Fast heat, easy-to-adjust temperature control, and an extremely durable surface make gas worth the investment for many homeowners, but the list of pros doesn’t stop there:

Versatility. A gas cooktop has a lot of range (no pun intended) when it comes to preparing favorite meals. From searing and simmering to boiling and grilling, gas does it all consistently well. Gas cooktops can handle a variety of cookware as well, so whether you prefer stainless steel, nonstick, or cast iron, you can expect a great culinary experience.
Less Expensive Overall. Gas is traditionally less expensive to operate than electric, and compared to an induction cooktop, the unit itself may have a smaller price tag upfront. That said, many luxury gas cooktop brands rival or exceed the cost of induction cooktops, so depending on your preferences, this may or may not be the case.
Easy-to-Control Temperature. Gas cooktops are famous for having great temperature control and relatively fast heat, making it easy to monitor and adjust dishes as you make them.
Available in a Power Outage. Any homeowner who has lived through an extended power outage has come to appreciate their gas cooktop. Even when the electric igniter doesn’t function, a gas cooktop may be lit manually with a match or butane lighter, making it possible to prepare hot food during an extended power disruption. Of course, if you’d like to avoid extended power disruptions, be sure to ask us about installing a whole home generator. 😉

However, for all of the benefits gas has to offer, there are a few drawbacks that may cause homeowners to consider other options:

Safety. One of the biggest concerns with a gas cooktop is the potential for carbon monoxide buildup if your space isn’t properly ventilated. Grease buildup, if not properly cleaned, is also a hazard.
Cleaning Challenges. With so many nooks and crannies around the burners, cleaning a gas cooktop is a time-consuming challenge that frustrates many home chefs who would rather spend their time cooking. In addition, special cleaning products are a must to ensure the cooktop remains in good working order in the long term.
Troubleshooting Concerns. Gas is great—until it doesn’t work properly. Common issues include the igniter not functioning without a bit of finesse.

No matter which cooking surface best fits your family’s needs, Flansburg’s team of designers can help you find the right appliance to incorporate into your kitchen renovation. Ready to create the ultimate space for cooking memorable family meals? Schedule a consultation today to start planning!

How to Extend Your Living Space With a Sunroom Addition

Written by @fl@nsburg on June 10, 2024. Posted in NJ Home Improvement.

By extending your living space with a sunroom addition, you can enhance your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. There are so many ways a sunroom can serve you, so it’s important to consider various options when planning this addition. Let’s take a look at what you should keep in mind when you want to add a sunroom to your living space in New Jersey.

Understand the Purpose

One of the first things to consider before starting your sunroom project is its primary purpose. When you hire the best home remodeling contractor, you can sit down and determine the purpose of this addition with a professional. Are you looking for an additional living space where your family can have dinner, watch movies, or entertain? Do you work from home and want to add a home office with tons of natural light? Do you like to do yoga or meditate and want to be closer to nature but in the comfort of the indoors? Any of these ideas can be the primary purpose of your addition. According to House Method, 93% of remodeling clients reported a better quality of life after finishing their renovations. That’s why it’s so important to spend time thinking of this addition’s purpose.

Choose the Right Location

Another important aspect to consider with our design build firm is the location. Depending on how your home is positioned to the sun, you may want to consider adding it in the direction of the sunlight to maximize natural light and heat. You may also want to place the sunroom where you can enjoy the best views of the landscape around your house. Accessibility is also another great factor to think of. Make sure the sunroom is easily accessible from other living areas to ensure a great flow.

Select a Design Style

When you’re adding a sunroom to your home, it’s important to think of the aesthetic and functionality. Selecting a design style can help improve the look of your home and help you gain various benefits. A few of the most popular design styles are a traditional sunroom with glass walls and a solid roof, a three-season room that’s designed for spring, summer, and fall, and a four-season room that is insulated for year-round use. We’ll be happy to help you choose the right style for your needs.

Plan the Layout and Size

When you work with our team at Flansburg Construction, you can plan the layout and the size of the room. Depending on what you plan on using this room for, the size can vary. As for the layout, it can ensure that there’s a smooth transition between the sunroom and the main house. This can make the exterior of your home look a lot better and ensure there’s excellent flow when walking in and out of each space. You also want to ensure that you can place the furniture to maximize comfort and functionality.

When you’re interested in adding a sunroom to your home, make sure you hire a professional team. At Flansburg Construction, we have been helping homeowners in the area add sunrooms to their homes for decades. Reach out to a member of our design build firm today to schedule your initial consultation. We’ll be happy to go over our design build process!