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Your home’s exterior is the first thing visitors encounter when they arrive, and creating a house with striking curb appeal can increase your home’s value. Discover the different aesthetic options for your house that can make it the showstopper of the neighborhood. Exterior makeovers are just a few of the ways you can make your home the best it can be. Find inspiration for a wide variety of renovations in the home remodeling photo gallery, which features pictures of completed projects throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.
Patio Doors that Connect to the Outdoors
Posted on June 24, 2019Now that patio season is here, are you thinking of how to make the most of your outdoor space this summer? Take a close look at your patio doors. Are they showing their age? Maybe it’s time to swap out your old doors for a brand new set. Replacing your patio doors can give you… more
Dress Up Your Windows
Posted on June 24, 2019Window boxes are the underrated secret weapon of curb appeal. These seemingly simple additions are the perfect touch that makes your façade one that passers-by won’t forget. Here are some helpful tips for installing gorgeous window boxes, taking the outside of your home to the next level. While most people avoid being too matchy-matchy for… more
Those Icicles On Your Roof Are Warning You
Posted on November 30, 2018If the eaves of your house are sporting a beautiful assortment of icicles, you may be well on your way to the damaging effects of an ice dam. “Most people think that icicles hanging off the gutters look pretty, but it’s usually a bad sign,” warns Normandy Designer Maury Jones. “A roof with a collection of… more
How to Add Curb Appeal: Enhance Your Home’s Exterior with Columns
Posted on October 26, 2018There are plenty of ways to boost the curb appeal of your home. One design element often overlooked is exterior columns. There are plenty of materials and styles to choose from – however, it’s important to choose wisely and match the character of your home. To guide you towards the best fit, here are some… more
What is a Bungalow?
Posted on April 21, 2016The Bungalow originated in the Bengal region in South Asia in the Mid-Nineteenth Century, however it quickly gained momentum across the globe due to the fact that it was easy to build and customize. Closer to home, it started popping up in the Chicagoland area between 1910 and 1940 during a period of significant economic… more
Breaking Down Architectural Home Styles
Posted on February 22, 2016You can expect to see a diverse sampling of architectural styles throughout the Chicagoland area. While it’s easy to appreciate the beauty of ornate Victorian homes and charming Colonials, it can be difficult to identify all of their defining characteristics. A better understanding of what makes a Tudor style different from a Spanish style home,… more
The Key to Choosing an Exterior Door
Posted on September 24, 2015Knock, knock. We have some big news for you. When completing a home addition or major remodel, the type of door you select is just as important as what lies behind it. “Exterior doors are an opportunity to reinforce the style of the home,” says Normandy Designer Gary Cerek. “You need to work with your… more
Screen Porch Ideas- Making Your Exterior More Superior
Posted on July 30, 2014Adding a screen porch to your house can provide some welcome additional living space, and give a boost to the curb appeal of the home as well. A screen porch addition has many of the same requirements as any other home addition, as well as a few additional considerations due to the exposure to the… more
Clay Roof Tiles vs Synthetic
Posted on September 18, 2013Clay roofing tiles give certain style homes, such as Mediterranean style and bungalows, such an authentic and distinct look which is why homeowners love them. They also come in a variety of colors and really act as a design element of their own. Not to mention, these tiles are going to last about 100 years,… more
Boost Curb Appeal With A Front Porch
Posted on May 21, 2013Often times homeowners are surprised what a difference adding a front porch to their home can make. It can really take a house from looking like everyone else’s on the block to looking like a custom home. Front porches are an ideal way to add architectural detail to a home’s exterior and really boost its… more
Juliet Balconies Increase Curb Appeal
Posted on May 8, 2013Juliet balconies are a great way to reap some of the benefits of a balcony with a more economic budget in mind. They increase your home’s curb appeal because they add more architectural interest to what otherwise might be an exterior that looks like every other home on the block. “Often times Juliet balconies are incorporated… more
The DIY Roof Inspection
Posted on April 4, 2013The National Association of the Remodeling Industry has compiled a few useful roof maintenance tips to ensure you get the most out of your roof. With warm weather on it’s way this weekend, it’s the perfect time to get the job done! “Your roof is exposed to scorching sun, high winds, driving rains and heavy snowfalls, which… more
