Need help deciding what color wood to put in your Colorado home? Let TAB Associates help! Source: Pixabay

Light wood, dark wood or somewhere in between — which is best for your home? The answer really depends on the character you’re trying to achieve in your space. Here’s a look at a few factors to consider as you make your decision.

Lighter Wood

Light wood is a good choice if you really want the detail of the wood to call attention to itself. It’s easier to see the grain of light wood, and thus it often looks more natural.

You’ll want to choose light wood it your room does not have a lot of windows to let natural light shine in, since it opens up the space. You can use dark colors as accents without creating a dungeon-like effect.

Dark Wood

Only use dark wood in rooms that get plenty of natural light. Ensure you pair it with light-colored walls so the room doesn’t feel too closed-off.

Dark wood is often used in conjunction with pale cream cabinets in a kitchen, or with white walls in a living or dining room.

For help choosing the perfect wood for your home design, contact the experts at TAB Architects to begin discussing your project.

The post Light Wood vs Dark Wood in Your Home appeared first on TAB Associates.

These tips will help guide you in the right direction for your home’s construction.

Whether you’re making just a couple of changes or entirely gutting your home, remodeling requires a lot of careful planning and decisions. These home renovation tips will help guide you in the right direction.

• If you don’t have a lot of experience with a certain aspect of your renovation, such as installing tile or carpeting, hire someone who does. It will cost less to hire someone than it will to make a mistake and have to re-do the entire project.
• Ensure that your home, one remodeled, does not stand out from the other homes on the block too much. It’s okay to be a touch unique, but you also don’t want to build a mansion in a neighborhood of cape cods.
• Choose elements that are always in style, rather than the trendiest decor. Doing so will ensure your home doesn’t look outdated when you eventually sell it.
• Remodel your existing spaces before adding new one, and before finishing unfinished rooms, such as the basement.
• Use high-quality materials, or you’ll find that you need to remodel again soon.

Are you looking for an experienced architect to help you re-design your home? Contact TAB Associates to learn about our services.

The post Home Renovation Tips By TAB Associates appeared first on TAB Associates.

Much of wood’s appeal lies in the rich colors and patterns laid out upon their surfaces, which makes the building material beautiful but not ostentatious.

In this as in other matters, you can choose out of a number of building materials when it comes to the ceiling of your home. However, if you are interested in something that is both beautiful and elegant without being impractical, there are few choices as good as wooden ceilings.

• Much of wood’s appeal lies in the rich colors and patterns laid out upon their surfaces, which makes the building material beautiful but not ostentatious. At the same time, wood lends warmth to the room, which is perfect if you are searching for something to sooth the senses.
• Of course, it is also important to mention that wood is versatile, meaning that not all wooden ceilings have to consist of planks lined up in a row. For example, if you are interested in something more luxurious, then you may be interested in a wooden ceiling with carved details. Alternatively, if you use reclaimed wood, their weathered surfaces can contribute to the creation of a cozier and more comfortable atmosphere.
• When it comes to wooden ceilings, the possibilities are truly limitless. Realize that a wooden ceiling will psychologically lower the ceiling height due to its darker than most drywall color and make the room feel more intimate.

To learn more about the benefits of wooden ceilings in custom home design, please contact us at The Architectural Balance.

The post Add A Touch of Elegance to Your Home With Wooden Ceilings appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates

• Pick the right land. Consider the school district, access to public spaces, the community, neighbors… anything you’d consider if moving into an existing home. You’ll also need to look at grading and topology to make sure it will work with the style of home you wish to build.
• Hire an excellent builder. Get plenty of references, and get a few estimates before choosing someone. You need a builder who is easy to work with, and who is clear about what’s included in their services and what is not. Make sure your builder is licensed.
• Have your plans drawn up by an architect. Even if you choose stock plans rather than custom plans, you’ll know that everything is properly laid out. Choose an architect with plenty of experience designing residential structures.

To discuss your custom home plans and start building your dream home, contact the architects at TAB Associates, Inc.

The post Plans to Build Your Own Home? Follow These Tips to Get Started appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates

• Open lofts are the perfect complement to a rustic cabin home. You can use your loft as an extra bedroom, a relaxing library, or even a TV room.
• While wood is the traditional choice for cabins, remember that you can work stone into your design. A beautiful stone chimney can make your cabin seem even cozier.
• Cabins are places for families to spend time together. An open floor plan makes this easier, promoting conversation and interaction.
• You’ll want to spend plenty of time relaxing outside when you’re at your cabin for a retreat. A spacious, wrap-around porch makes this possible.
• Incorporate plenty of rustic wood into your interior to maintain the cabin-look indoors.
• No cabin is complete without a beautiful mantle to display family heirlooms and treasures. Rustic brick and stone are great materials for your fireplace and mantel.

If you’re interested in building a cabin style home, contact TAB Associates, Inc. to learn more about our architectural services.

The post Ideas for Building in the Charming Rustic Cabin Style appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates

• Working a pool in with landscaping– If you add landscaping to your yard when you have your pool put in, you can create an entire outdoor space that caters to the needs of your home’s residents and guests.
• A pool and pergola– A patio surrounded by a pergola is an elegant place that can allow for relaxation after a swim.
• Add a fountain– Water features such as fountains and waterfalls are great additions to a yard that complement a swimming pool.

Keep in touch with us at TAB Associates for more great design ideas for the home. We’re on Facebook and Twitter, so connect with us via social media or follow our blog to learn more!

If you’d like to learn more about luxury pool design possibilities, contact us at TAB Associates.

The post Ideas for Adding a Luxury Pool to Your Dream Home appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates

• Regional flavor- Depending on where you live, you might find inspiration for bedroom decor in the style of your region. For example, a Southwest decor scheme could feature an adobe appearance, exposed wood beams, and arched windows.
• Consider skylights- Lighting features have a significant influence over the look and mood of a room, and incorporating some unique or original lighting methods can add to a bedroom’s visual appeal. Skylights on a sloped ceiling are an interesting way to cast your room in a creative light.
• Minimal furnishings- According to the 20th century architect Mies van der Rohe, “less is more”. You might find your bedroom to be more comfortable if you cut back on superfluous furniture pieces and decor accessories to allow for more open space and simplicity.

Check back with our blog regularly for more great tips on luxury decor for your home.

Contact us for consultation on your luxury master bedroom design project.

The post Tips for Designing the Perfect Luxury Master Bedroom appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates

Timber gives homes a very natural look, especially when it is roughly hewn. We love timber for country-style homes with views of the mountains. It fits right in and almost makes you feel like you are stepping back in time.

Lime and gypsum are commonly used to build luxury homes. These natural materials are used to construct masonry, and although the can carry a hefty price tag, they look very sophisticated in a luxury home.

High-alumina cement is an extremely strong type of cement that stands up better to wear and tear than most standard cements. This makes it a common choice for luxury homes, especially in areas where homes must be able to withstand harsh weather.

At TAB Associates, we make homes and buildings in a wide array of styles using a range of materials. If you’re interested in using a material in your home that you don’t see on this list, contact us directly to discuss your project’s needs.

The post Popular Building Materials for Luxury Homes appeared first on TAB Associates.

There are many different ways to adopt the his and hers bathroom configuration. In some homes, the bathroom is divided by a tall, mid-room wall that has a sink on either side of it for each partner. Separate toilets and dressing areas are located on either side of the room. Some his and hers bathrooms offer one shared shower stall or bathtub, while others have two showers.

Some his and hers baths are less divided than others. In one home, the designers placed a single luxury jacuzzi in the middle of the room for shared use, and placed separate sinks and dressing vanities on either side of the room. The symmetrical appearance, as with all his and her baths, is the key to the modern design look.

At TAB Associates, our talented architects can help you integrate the latest home trends into your design. Contact us to discuss your plans today.

The post Luxury Home Trends: His and Hers Master Bathrooms appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: BHG.com

• Construct a stone fireplace for a smooth, timeless look. You can even have it finished in stucco, which adds textural interest.
• An assortment of stones in various sizes and shapes creates an artistic look for your fireplace. If you have a laid-back back yard, this is a great choice.
• Herringbone brick calls a lot of attention to itself, which is great if your backyard lacks a focal point. A tall fireplace paired with brick pillars can make your patio look rustically modern.
• Consider building a fireplace that contrasts your backyard in a certain way. For example, you could rely on brick with your otherwise concrete hardscaping, or choose a color of stucco that stands out against your home.

TAB Associates, Inc. is dedicated to helping you design and plan the home of your dreams. Contact us today for more information about our architectural services.

The post Stunning Ideas for a Cozy Outdoor Fireplace appeared first on TAB Associates.

Everyone tends to want a pantry in their home. Of course, you need somewhere to store food. Butler pantries offer a great alternative to full-size pantry rooms. They’re essentially tall cabinets, and they come in many different varieties. Pick one out that matches your decor, and you’re set to go.

The butler pantry is easily placed within a room that you designate as the mud room and laundry room. Place your laundry facilities on one side of the room, the butler pantry in the corner nearest the kitchen, and use the other side of the room as a “mud room” to store sporting goods, shoes, and more. You just won’t want to get it too muddy since it’s shared use space.

TAB Associates, Inc. is dedicated to helping you find the most efficient designs for your home. Contact our talented architects and designers today.

The post How to Combine Your Laundry, Mud, and Butler Pantry appeared first on TAB Associates.

• Extra kitchen space. If you entertain guests often, but like do so outside, consider incorporating a cooking area into your kitchen design. When building the home, design a structure that can support a small outdoor kitchen and cooktop area.

• Dining underneath the stars. Do you live in area with welcoming evening weather? Choose a long table and chairs to create an intimate outdoor dining setting. Opt for a more informal dining area in the home.

• Reading Nook. Do you need a place to enjoy coffee and a good book? Create a comforting book nook with an arbor, plush seating and a crushed stone pathway over-layed with wood or stone walkway.

Are you building a home and in need of some guidance to bridge the interior and exterior design? Contact us at TAB Associates to discuss your building needs.

The post Ways to Incorporate Your Side Yard Into Your Home Design appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: Tab Associates

• Landscaping and gardens– Obviously, landscaping is always one of the most prominent features when it comes to the outdoor design of a home. As landscaping will be most likely to be closely scrutinized during the summer months, it’s important to shift your design focus to your outdoor space.
• Lighting accessories– Lighting fixtures set the mood in your yard once the sun goes down, creating a relaxing place to hang out at night.
• Decorative water features – Water features like ponds, fountains, and waterfalls are becoming increasingly popular, and they can be surprisingly easy to maintain.

For more useful information that will help you keep your home looking great year-round, check out our Facebook and Twitter pages.

At TAB Associates, we’re here to assist you with your home design needs. Contact us to learn more about the services we offer.

The post Outdoor Living: Most Popular Home Features by Survey appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates Inc.

• Floor to ceiling windows. Floor to ceiling windows are not only beautiful, they also offer a variety of benefits including natural sunlight. Because floor to ceiling windows let in natural light, they reduce the need to use electricity.

• Roof deck. Beyond a patio and a balcony, luxury home features now extend to the top of a home. A roof deck is the perfect place to entertain your guests and enjoy a view of the mountains or skyline.

• Wine Room. Create a room to store wine that you’ve collected from around the world. Develop a custom wine room suited to store wine in its ideal environment.

• Terrace. Enjoy a place of solace all to yourself in the form of a terrace. Whether it’s a place to read, connect with nature through gardening, or work out and stretch, a terrace makes an ideal retreat.

If you would like to incorporate luxury home features into your home, contact us at TAB Associates.

The post Don’t Neglect to Add These Luxury Home Features to Your Dream House appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates Inc.

• Hipped Roof. Hipped Roof Craftsman homes are a rare gem. Complement a hipped roof with a slightly arched porch entryway. You can also incorporate a hipped roof into the attic of a two-story home.

• Eclectic blends. If you’re set on a Craftsman home, but also love elements of other styles, opt for an eclectic blend. Embellish key Craftsman features such as a prominent porch and rafter tails with characteristics of your other favorite styles.

• Gabled homes. Gables are among the most prominent characteristics of Craftsman homes. Within the Craftsman design, Craftsman style homes use front, side or cross-gables.

For more inspiration, consider craftsman designs from our portfolio. Craftsman houses blend perfectly into the Colorado mountains.

Would you like to include trending home styles into the construction of your new home? Contact us at Tab Associates to discuss building the home of your dreams.

The post Trending Home Styles: What Makes a Craftsman House? appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates Inc.

• Conduct an interview. A good architect will take time to discuss their process with you prior to working with you. Look for an architect that matches your philosophy and style of design with experience designing homes in the size and scope of your ideal residence.

• Decide on a budget. Prior to meeting with an architect and beginning work, do research on your own and develop a budget. Develop a budget ahead of time so that the architect’s design and scope are within budget.

• Develop a lookbook. Have a good idea of the features you’d like in your home prior to meeting with an architect. Collect pictures of homes, rooms, and structures in your target style to show your architect.

Our experienced architectural team at TAB Associates can answer all of your questions about building a residence in the Vail, CO area and working with an architect. Contact us at TAB Associates to discuss building your dream home.

The post Tips for Working With Your Architect to Achieve Your Dream Home appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates

These are a few of the top architectural design trends for 2014:

• Home spa. Having a home spa or whirlpool bath installed gives you a place to relax after a hectic day. It makes your home feel more like a private retreat where you can shut out the rest of the world. More than half of new homes being built in the US include a whirlpool bath, and the home spa industry is on the rise.

• Multifunctional kitchen. Kitchens are turning into central hubs in homes these days. They’re being used as a place to perform several other tasks besides cooking, such as studying or paying bills. Consider having your new kitchen set up in a way that accommodates this multipurpose trend.

• Outdoor room. Using outdoor space as an extension of the home is a growing trend. Instead of a simple patio or deck, an entire room can be constructed with eco-friendly materials that can handle the elements.

Want to see examples of homes that use current design trends?  Contact us at TAB Associates to talk about incorporating these trends in your new home!

The post Check Out These Architecture Trends for 2014 to Inspire Your Home appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates

Here are a few of the hottest kitchen trends for 2014:

• Blue: This color might seem like an odd choice for a kitchen, but it’s becoming a popular one. Homeowners are choosing all different shades of blue, ranging from soft sky blues to bright turquoise and sophisticated navy tones. Blue is mainly making an appearance in tiles and cupboards, as well as decor items.

• Eye-catching backsplashes: These areas above the stove or sink are really standing out, thanks to brightly colored splashbacks with bold patterns. These work well with kitchens that are mostly done in white or neutral colors since they create contrast.

• Natural materials: Wood, stone, brick and other natural materials are giving kitchens some rustic appeal and creating a warm and welcoming environment. This trend also involves exposing older beams and structures, as well as adding new features.

Want to see examples of kitchen trends for 2014? Contact TAB Associates for more information or check out our online portfolio today.

The post Let Us Work On Your Interiors: Kitchen Trends for 2014 appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates

Building a home can take as little as five or six months from permit to completion if you live in certain parts of the country like the southern states that border the Atlantic Ocean, the Midwest, and the western states that do not border the Pacific, such as Idaho, Nevada and Montana.

Having a home built in Mississippi, Alabama, Kentucky and Tennessee generally takes around seven months, while building a home along the west coast or in Alaska, Hawaii, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio usually takes an average of eight months. The northeastern region takes the longest time. Home building from Pennsylvania to Maine takes between nine and ten months.

If you hire a contractor to build your home, it typically takes about eight months to complete. When you handle the contracting duties yourself, it can take up to 11 months.

Ready to discuss your home building project? Contact TAB Associates, and follow us on Facebook.

The post How Much Time Should You Plan for To Build Your Home? appeared first on TAB Associates.

Source: TAB Associates

Use the following outdoor room design ideas to help you come up with the perfect setup for yours:

• Focus on fun. Give your outdoor room a truly natural feel by using grass as the floor instead of wood or stone. Set out some rocking chairs and consider including a swing or two for a whimsical touch that kids and adults alike can enjoy.

• Make it multifunctional. Instead of just focusing on seating, get more use out of your outdoor room by including a fireplace, big-screen TV, kitchen area, a dining table and chairs, and a counter with a row of bar stools. This makes the room a great spot for relaxing or entertaining.

• Create an outdoor sleeping area. Turn your outdoor room into a place where you can enjoy sleeping under the stars in comfort on a suspended bed.

Ready to discuss your outdoor room project? Contact TAB Associates, and follow us on Facebook.

The post Ideas for Building Your Outdoor Room for Future Summers appeared first on TAB Associates.