There are a couple of different schools of thought regarding whether or not the master bedroom should be upstairs or downstairs within the home. Choose wisely, as it could possibly affect your home’s resale value. If you are building a new home, consider the pros and cons of an upstairs master bedroom versus a downstairs bedroom, and get more information from R&K, leading custom home builders in Greensboro.
Pros and Cons of an Upstairs Master Bedroom vs. a Downstairs Bedroom
Around 2016, it became more popular for home builders to put the master bedroom downstairs closer to the main living spaces and incorporate the other bedrooms upstairs. Here are a few of the pros and cons of each setup.
Master Bedroom Downstairs:
Pro: With the master bedroom being on the main living floor, this can be ideal for empty nesters and those soon to retire because it allows for better mobility and eliminates the hassle of constantly climbing steps.
Pro: This can also increase the energy efficiency of the home if no one permanently resides upstairs; cooling and heating the home can be focused only on the ground level unless there are visitors.
Con: However, with the master bedroom residing downstairs and in the main area, it is more susceptible to intrusion and less private. Depending on where your master bedroom is located and whether you have to pass it to get to common areas, people may find themselves walking past your private space often, and that may be a deal-breaker for you.
Con: If you have your master bedroom downstairs and you do have other people living upstairs, it could be a noise concern as well depending on where the top floor activity is.
Master Bedroom Upstairs:
Pro: More often than not, an upstairs master bedroom may allow for a better, broader view. Not only is this more pleasant, but it might be a greater safety measure because it allows you to see a greater distance.
Pro: An upstairs master bedroom also provides you with more privacy. Most of your living occurs downstairs within the kitchen and main living area, therefore, very little traffic should take place upstairs leaving your private space safe from view.
Con: Residing upstairs could be too close for comfort if you have children, for them and for you. You both probably enjoy your own privacy and this could be dampened if everybody’s bedroom is upstairs.
Con: Another downfall to an upstairs master bedroom is the mobility factor. If you plan to live in the house for years to come, as you age, getting up and down the stairs could become a hindrance.
Where Custom Home Builders in Greensboro say Your Next Master Bedroom Should Go
Having double master suite, one upstairs and one downstairs allows for convenience, more options, and even a current trend known as “night divorce”, where couples are choosing to sleep in separate quarters and opting for a better night’s rest. Typically a home can have a better resale value in Greensboro if the master bedroom is on the first floor but for most people, this is not a deal breaker.
Whether you decide to put the master bedroom upstairs, downstairs, or opt for both, have R&K, the premier team of custom home builders in Greensboro handle the design and building of your new home. Call for a free consultation (336)643-3503.
Top 5 Splurges for Building your New Home
Splurge on These Items and More with the Best Home Builders in Greensboro
R&K Custom Homes wants you to have the home of your dreams, whatever that means to you. Don’t be afraid to splurge on the items you really want. This is your place and it should be everything you’ve always wanted. Call the best home builders in Greensboro, R&K Custom Homes, today: (336) 362-5225.
Simple, Smart Ways to Create More Space in your Home
Natural Light Makes a Room Feel More Spacious
Plenty of windows, especially large ones, let in a lot of natural light, which makes any room seem larger. Natural light is also more efficient, meaning you won’t need as much artificial light and your energy bill will be lower. It’s important to choose well-insulated windows that won’t let in outside air or let conditioned air escape, or you won’t be saving as much energy as you thought.
Households of Today Need Plenty of Storage
You can never have too much storage these days. Ample storage spaces allow for greater organization so that the rooms that are meant to be lived in can be used for their proper intention without too much clutter. Less clutter means less stress for people of all ages. So don’t skimp on the closets and built-in storage spaces.
Add Vertical Space with High Ceilings
Incorporate higher ceilings in your home to make rooms feel larger without taking up any additional floor space. This can look like cathedral ceilings in foyers and living rooms or just 9-foot ceilings throughout the home instead of the typical 8. Intricate ceiling designs can draw visual focus upward, also creating the feel of more space in each room.
Open Floor Concepts Create Space with Fewer Walls
When you have fewer walls separating rooms, the main living areas can feel much larger. Instead of a closed-off kitchen, living room, and dining room, the whole space can be opened up into one large room. Furniture can be used to designate the use of each part of the open space.
Pocket or Sliding Doors Prevent Wasted Space for Swinging Doors
Pocket doors where the door itself slides into the wall can save a lot of space in your home. You don’t have to design space for doors to swing out into the room. This can work well with bathroom doors, closet doors, bedroom doors, and more. The whole layout can be much easier to design by taking swinging doors out of the equation.
Skilled, Experienced Greensboro Builders Can Maximize Space in Your Home Design
If you want to make the most of interior space in your new custom home, discuss this with your builder. Experienced Greensboro builders, such as R&K Custom Homes, can design your home to be as space-friendly as possible so that not a single square foot is wasted. State-of-the-art design features and current technology make home layouts smarter than ever before, which are just a couple of the many benefits of building a new custom home. Call R&K Custom Homes today to get started on your space-saving home design today: (336) 362-5225.
Are Sunrooms Back?
Sunrooms Offer Many Benefits
Including a sunroom in your plans may be a great decision for your family. Sunrooms offer:
The uses for a sunroom are virtually limitless. How you use it depends on your lifestyle and the needs and interests of your family members. It can be a transitional space that will change over the years as your family changes.
Sunroom Concerns Now Have Solutions
Sunrooms fell from popularity for a time due to some possible drawbacks:
The many windows can make insulation a challenge for sunrooms. The room can be hot in the summer, making cooling costs rise, but may actually be pleasant during the winter when the sun warms the room naturally. It may also be difficult to extend the central air to the sunroom, but that is more of a concern when a sunroom is added onto a home after it is already built. The biggest concern is probably the fact that most homeowners won’t recoup the expense of adding a sunroom in resale value. Again, this is more of a concern for homeowners that are adding sunrooms onto an existing home, rather than including it in the original plans drawn up by a new home builder in Greensboro.
Window insulation technology has improved in recent years, making sunrooms more efficient to heat and cool. When you include a sunroom in your original home design, the central air can be extended to the room easily. The additional square footage the sunroom offers may be an advantage when selling the home in the future, especially if you plan on staying in the home for many years.
Make the Best Decision for You
The biggest advantage to custom home building is that your home can be exactly what you want. If you want a sunroom, have a sunroom. Don’t include one just because it’s the popular choice, and don’t let the drawbacks dissuade you from getting what you want. Weigh the pros and cons, think about your lifestyle, and discuss the options with your new home builder in Greensboro. New technology has made sunrooms much more efficient and useful for families. Your builder will know how to design a sunroom with the best possible benefits. Call R&K Custom Homes today to start planning your dream home, with or without a sunroom. (336) 362-5225.
5 Common Home Decorating Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Experienced Custom Home Builders in NC Can Offer Ideas and Suggestions for Interior Décor
The builder’s job is to design and build homes from a structural standpoint, including the layout and features of your home. In addition, custom home builders in NC with years of experience like the team at R&K Custom Homes can offer suggestions from an interior décor standpoint as well. Working with many different customers and building a variety of original homes gives R&K extensive knowledge of varying styles. Choosing wall colors, flooring materials, cabinet colors, and countertops are all part of the décor in your home. Knowing the look you want to achieve is important when selecting these items. Avoid the 5 mistakes above and you’re sure to have a beautifully decorated home that you’ll still be happy with for years to come. Call R&K Custom Homes to get started on your new home today: (336) 362-5225.
Master Bedroom: Upstairs or Downstairs? The Pros and Cons of Each
Pros and Cons of an Upstairs Master Bedroom vs. a Downstairs Bedroom
Around 2016, it became more popular for home builders to put the master bedroom downstairs closer to the main living spaces and incorporate the other bedrooms upstairs. Here are a few of the pros and cons of each setup.
Master Bedroom Downstairs:
Pro: With the master bedroom being on the main living floor, this can be ideal for empty nesters and those soon to retire because it allows for better mobility and eliminates the hassle of constantly climbing steps.
Pro: This can also increase the energy efficiency of the home if no one permanently resides upstairs; cooling and heating the home can be focused only on the ground level unless there are visitors.
Con: However, with the master bedroom residing downstairs and in the main area, it is more susceptible to intrusion and less private. Depending on where your master bedroom is located and whether you have to pass it to get to common areas, people may find themselves walking past your private space often, and that may be a deal-breaker for you.
Con: If you have your master bedroom downstairs and you do have other people living upstairs, it could be a noise concern as well depending on where the top floor activity is.
Master Bedroom Upstairs:
Pro: More often than not, an upstairs master bedroom may allow for a better, broader view. Not only is this more pleasant, but it might be a greater safety measure because it allows you to see a greater distance.
Pro: An upstairs master bedroom also provides you with more privacy. Most of your living occurs downstairs within the kitchen and main living area, therefore, very little traffic should take place upstairs leaving your private space safe from view.
Con: Residing upstairs could be too close for comfort if you have children, for them and for you. You both probably enjoy your own privacy and this could be dampened if everybody’s bedroom is upstairs.
Con: Another downfall to an upstairs master bedroom is the mobility factor. If you plan to live in the house for years to come, as you age, getting up and down the stairs could become a hindrance.
Where Custom Home Builders in Greensboro say Your Next Master Bedroom Should Go
Having double master suite, one upstairs and one downstairs allows for convenience, more options, and even a current trend known as “night divorce”, where couples are choosing to sleep in separate quarters and opting for a better night’s rest. Typically a home can have a better resale value in Greensboro if the master bedroom is on the first floor but for most people, this is not a deal breaker.
Whether you decide to put the master bedroom upstairs, downstairs, or opt for both, have R&K, the premier team of custom home builders in Greensboro handle the design and building of your new home. Call for a free consultation (336)643-3503.
Tips for Creating Your Dream Master Closet
Build to organize your closet.
According to Organized Living, closets are the second most desired feature in a dream home, and are used twice per day; therefore, you should have your closet exactly as you want it to make it organized, pleasing, and comfortable to your specific style and taste. When it comes to building your dream master closet, think about custom shelving to organize and categorize your belongings. A builder may suggest top shelving be fourteen to sixteen inches in depth to store large items overhead. By adding accessory drawers and shelving directly in line with where the master closet door opens, this will create an open-layout feel. Placing a mirror at the top of this will provide the appearance of a larger space. If you decide to add shelving for shoes, consider flat lay and slanted shelves to accommodate your heels.
To make your dream master closet pop and add a bit of luxury, build a vanity or dressing table inside of the master closet. Be sure that your closet has plenty of light or add proper lighting if needed. The benefits of having your vanity inside the closet is that this will keep any clutter out of sight, it is convenient to your dressing routine, and you can enjoy the privacy of being in the closet space instead of possibly crowding the bedroom or bathroom while you dress and apply makeup.
Think about additions to enhance your master closet.
Once you have decided on the custom built shelves and vanity, think about other additions to bring your dream closet to life such as lighting, décor, and a sitting area. Proper lighting will be highly important to see everything in the closet, especially if you are dressing in here. Adding a rug or using a couple of shelves to decorate on will allow your personal style to show through and make it feel more like its own room. If you have some extra space, try adding in a chaise lounge sofa or an upholstered sofa bench.
Trust R&K, the experienced team of custom home builders in NC, to make your home beautiful. Call for a free consultation (336) 362-5225.
Best Schools in the Oak Ridge Area of Guilford County
Elementary Schools:
Middle Schools:
High Schools:
Excellent Schools Make Homes for Sale in Oak Ridge, NC Popular Among Potential Homebuyers
As you can see by the rankings on niche.com, the northwest and northern Guilford County area is a superior public school district with top-ranking schools. If you wish to build or look for homes for sale in Oak Ridge, NC, contact R&K Custom Homes: (336)643-3505.
Luxury Homes: The Latest Trends in Master Bedrooms
Office Alcove. Whether or not you have a home office, it can be convenient to have a desk and office alcove in your master bedroom. A section of the room with an archway, or a nook off to one side offers a semi-private space to work.
Kitchenette/Coffee Spot. For those lazy mornings when you don’t even want to leave the bedroom to get coffee, a small kitchenette in the master bedroom can be a dream come true. Reminiscent of a hotel room, a minibar, wine cooler, drink refrigerator, microwave, sink—whatever you need can be right at your fingertips without leaving the bedroom.
Outdoor Access. Imagine French doors opening onto a balcony or sliding glass doors that lead out onto a back patio or deck, possibly to a pool or hot tub. Master bedrooms with exterior doors offer an atmosphere of resort-style living at home.
Window Seat. A classic element that never goes out of style, a window seat offers additional built-in seating in the master bedroom. Sit and read while taking full advantage of the natural light coming in. Soak up extra vitamin D that helps battle the doldrums of winter.
Wall of Glass. If you’re lucky enough to be building on a home site with a view, consider a wall made entirely of glass to enjoy the beauty of the landscape to the fullest. Glass is now engineered to allow you to see out without letting others see in, so you won’t need blinds or shades.
Elaborate Ceilings. Vaulted ceilings aren’t just for living rooms and foyers. Make your master bedroom feel even more spacious with higher ceilings. Ceiling beams achieve a grander look and skylights let in more natural light. Give your master bedroom some character by giving special attention to ceiling design.
Closet and Storage. A luxurious master bedroom is complemented by a luxurious, spacious closet. A large walk-in closet or even his and hers closets with organizational features built-in make for a tidier bedroom and convenient access to clothing and shoes.
Get the Luxury Master Bedroom of your Dreams with one of the Best Custom Home Builders in NC
R&K Custom Homes understands your need for rest and relaxation in a grand, spacious master bedroom. One of the best custom home builders in NC, R&K will incorporate the latest trends and conveniences into your design to give you the dream master bedroom you’ve always wanted. Call (336)643-3503 for a free consultation.
Master Bath Trends for 2018
Planning to build your dream home? Make your master suite amazing with a luxurious bathroom. If you need some ideas and you want to try the latest trends in master bathrooms, consider these possibilities. Then be sure to find Greensboro builders who can take your ideas and turn them into a beautiful bathroom you can enjoy for years to come.
Bold Patterns. The return of wallpaper in bathrooms is a reality. Patterned walls offer texture and create the illusion of space. This can be accomplished by creative taping and painting or much more easily through wallpaper.
Natural Light. Having privacy doesn’t mean sacrificing natural light. Windows that are tinted, frosted, or dressed with blinds, shutters, or curtains provide the necessary privacy while still letting in plenty of light. Save energy as well by using less electricity for lighting.
Glass Doors to Separate Bathroom from Bedroom. Recreate the resort-style bathroom from your last vacation to enjoy every day. French doors or windowed walls can separate the master bedroom from the bathroom without such a hard barrier. The natural light from the bathroom spills into the bedroom as well like a tropical vacation spot.
Ornate Tub Surround. If you like to take long, relaxing baths, make the tub a major focal point in your master bath. Consider a surround option made of wood or tile. For a luxurious, deep tub consider steps leading up to the rim for easier entry and exit.
Serenity Now. Design a relaxing bathroom retreat with soothing colors, warm textures, and a Zen style. Pastels like blue if you prefer cool colors or pale peach if you prefer warm colors will create a serene atmosphere with your own personal touch.
Sliding Doors. For the sake of style and space, sliding doors are gaining popularity. Offering the option to open up your space or close it off when privacy is preferred, the versatility is a major advantage here.
Include Seating. If your goal is luxury, don’t forget to add some seating in your bathroom. Whether it’s a stylish vanity chair or a chaise lounge to stretch out on while you self-administer beauty treatments, your bathroom will feel like a day at the spa.
Plan for the Future. If this is your dream home, ask yourself if you plan on aging in place. One of the most important areas of your home that will require modifications for age is the bathroom. Plan for the future now by installing a low-step or roll-in shower stall, plenty of handles and handrails, wide doorways, and low counters. You’ll be thankful for these features later.
Greensboro Builders R&K Custom Homes can give you your Dream Bathroom
Your dream bathroom should be a relaxing, beautiful room that allows you the space you need for your daily routine as well as a luxurious retreat from the stress of the day. Not all Greensboro builders can give you the same level of quality and style in a master bathroom. R&K Custom Homes has designed and built some extraordinary bathrooms featuring many of the ideas above. Expert designers and builders can incorporate your ideas into a bathroom that suits your style and vision. Call (336) 362-5225 for a free consultation.
5 Questions to be Sure to Ask your Home Builder
Custom home building can be an arduous, yet highly rewarding process. It will require a lot of planning, decision making, and communication. But the final result will be an original home built to suit you and your family. In order to avoid surprises and to end up with a final product you will be happy with, there are some questions you should be sure to ask your custom home builder in NC.
1. What is your average build time? Knowing the time frame to expect for your builder to finish your home is very important. You need to be able to plan accordingly when it comes to the sale of your old home, preparing to move, and other time-sensitive matters. Your builder should be able to give you a fairly accurate timeline to go on with a little flexibility built in for weather or other possible issues that could slow the process.
2. Can design changes be made along the way, and how should this be communicated? As your home takes shape you may see some things you want to change along the way. Be sure your builder is open to the possibility of changes and find out when and how you should communicate these requests.
3. How often should I expect progress check-ins? Your builder should touch base with you at various points in the building process. Knowing how often to expect communication will take the mystery out of things and keep you from wondering whether you should be the one to make contact. Review our building process.
4. How does the cancellation process work? If for some reason a problem arises at any point in the process, it’s important to know your builder’s cancellation and refund policy. It will likely depend on how far into construction you are before backing out. You may have no intentions of cancelling now, but you never know what the future may hold.
5. What kind of warranty will the home have? With a brand new home, there may be some kinks that need to be worked out or even some problems that could arise after you move in. Most new homes have some type of warranty that covers repairs for a certain amount of time, typically one year. Find out what type of warranty your builder offers, how long it lasts, and what it covers.
Hire a Reliable Custom Home Builder in NC like R&K
When you have your initial consultation with R&K Custom Homes, you will get the answers to these questions and more without even having to ask. R&K fully informs every potential client about frequently and not so frequently asked questions. You should feel comfortable enough to share your thoughts and ideas and to ask whatever questions you need to feel good about the home building process. R&K wants you to have the dream home you’ve always wanted with no stress. If you’re looking for a reliable custom home builder in NC, call (336) 362-5225 to schedule a free consultation.