design matters

Our inspiration for this blog is to create a hub of ideas and resources for our clients, friends and remodeling enthusiasts. The blog content will include our work, as well as other unique and clever solutions that we feel worthy of sharing. Our blog is organized by key words, and is easily searchable. Please enjoy, interact, and give us your feedback.

-Jef Forward

 

May 4, 2012

Dog Baths offer Ultimate Functionality

2012 New American Home contemporary patio
If you have ever tried to bathe an unwilling canine, then you have wished for a better way. A custom dog shower is a good solution. They allow you to wash the dog in utility areas such as the garage or laundry area. They can also be at ground level so the dog doesn't need to climb or be lifted into a sink or tub. Here are some good examples.
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Apr 10, 2012

Pendant Lighting

Choosing lighting fixtures for a room can be  a daunting task. With the huge amount of available options, it is difficult to even decide on a direction for lighting. Pendant lights are a versatile choice that can make an enormous impact on a space. Here are some directions to take with pendant lights.

Urban Homestead contemporary kitchen
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Mar 27, 2012

Countertop Choices

Kitchen eclectic kitchen

While granite gets most of the attention these days, there are many great choices for counter tops. They make up a big portion of the overall look of the kitchen, and they all have their own pros and cons.

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Mar 13, 2012

Siding Typology

Siding selection makes a huge impact on the overall impression of the exterior composition. Siding varies much by region, climate, and budget. While most people prefer a siding material that is mostly maintenance free, sometimes something that needs painting and repair can make a world of difference.

Folk Victorian farmhouse traditional exterior
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Feb 10, 2012

Adding On

Entry addition by Forward Designers and Builders

So you are thinking of an addition. A little extra room because the family is growing, you've started a home based business, you would like a modernized kitchen, or any of the thousand other reasons why your existing house just isn't big enough.


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Feb 2, 2012

Forward Designers and Builders named Regional Contractor of the Year!

Photo by Gene Jones Art and Design
We are pleased to announce that we are the regional winner for the 2012 COTY award for baths between $30,000 and $60,000. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) sponsors the Contractor of the Year (COTY) award each year. Judging is focused on problem solving, functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation, degree of difficulty and entry presentation. Regional winners are eligible to compete for the National COTY award, which will be announced on April 21. We had a great time remodeling this eclectic bathroom and we hope that it shows in the final product. View the rest of this project here.


Jan 23, 2012

Add color to your kitchen

Homeowners tend to shy away from high-impact colors when designing or renovating kitchens, since it's best to have a timeless design and not intimidate potential buyers when selling. The results are kitchens that have neutral colors and materials that are quite forgettable. Don't be afraid to add color to your kitchen. Look at other areas of your house for inspiration. Perhaps there are colors in your favorite painting or fabric that inspire you. Below are some examples of eye-catching kitchens.

highland park contemporary kitchen
contemporary kitchen design by chicago architect Powell/Kleinschmidt, Inc.

1. Countertop. This rich royal blue color is known as "Sodalite". The blue gives an unexpected touch to the overall design.
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