Open Floor Concepts

It seems everyone wanted it at one time - but why and should you?

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Open floor design concepts have become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in homes and offices. The basic idea behind an open floor design is to remove walls and other barriers that separate different spaces, creating a more fluid and connected environment. We'll explore the key benefits and considerations of open floor design concepts.

1. Increased natural light: One of the most significant benefits of an open floor design is the increased natural light it allows into a space. With fewer walls and partitions, light can penetrate deeper into the space, creating a brighter and more welcoming environment.
   

2. Improved flow and connectivity: Another benefit of open floor design is the improved flow and connectivity between different spaces. This can be especially useful in homes or offices where people need to move around freely and easily. By removing barriers between different areas, open floor design creates a more fluid and natural environment that encourages movement and interaction.
   

3. Greater flexibility: Open floor design also offers greater flexibility in terms of how the space is used. With fewer walls and partitions, the layout can be easily changed and adapted to different needs and preferences. This can be particularly useful in office spaces where teams need to collaborate and work together on different projects.

That being said - there are things you should consider when looking to do an Open Floor Design. Things many people may overlook.

1. Noise and privacy: One of the most significant considerations when it comes to open floor design is noise and privacy. With fewer barriers between different spaces, it can be more difficult to control noise levels and maintain privacy. This is particularly important in office spaces where people may need to concentrate on individual tasks or have confidential conversations.
   

2. Storage: Another consideration for open floor design is storage. With fewer walls and partitions, there may be less space for built-in storage solutions such as cabinets and closets. This can be especially challenging in homes or offices where storage space is limited.
   

3. Zoning: Open floor design also requires careful zoning to ensure that different areas of the space are clearly defined and functional. This can be achieved through the use of furniture, rugs, and other decorative elements to create visual boundaries between different areas.

Overall, open floor design concepts can offer a range of benefits, from increased natural light to improved flow and flexibility. However, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks, such as noise and privacy concerns and the need for careful zoning and storage solutions. With careful planning and consideration, open floor design can create a beautiful and functional space that meets the needs of both homes and offices.

That being said - M.T. McCaw has designed hundreds of homes, many of which asked for open floor concepts. They all turned out great and we have the experience to share if we feel your home isn't a good fit for an open floor concept.

Storage - We never seem to have enough.

You seem them popping up all over the place. Storage centers... Enormous buildings meant to house the things you can't find space for...

One aspect of remodeling that is often overlooked is storage. If you're looking for ways to maximize your storage space in a unique and creative way - we'll explore some unique storage ideas that you can incorporate into your next remodel.

Be sure to leave us a comment on what storage ideas you prefer! Let's get creative!

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1. Hidden Storage

One of the most effective ways to maximize storage space is to incorporate hidden storage solutions. For example, you could build shelving into the walls of your home or install a storage bench with a hidden compartment. Another option is to use the space under your stairs for storage. You can build shelves or cabinets to make the most of this otherwise unused space.

1. Multi-Purpose Furniture

Another great storage solution is to use multi-purpose furniture. For example, you could use a storage ottoman as a coffee table or a bed with built-in drawers. There are many different types of multi-purpose furniture available, so you're sure to find something that will work for your space.

1. Built-In Shelving

Built-in shelving is an excellent way to add storage space to any room in your home. You can build shelving units into the walls or use freestanding shelving units to create a custom look. Built-in shelving is perfect for storing books, decorative items, and even clothing.

1. Vertical Storage

When it comes to storage, don't forget to look up. Vertical storage solutions can help you maximize your storage space without taking up valuable floor space. For example, you could install shelves or hooks on your walls to store items like hats, coats, and bags.

1. Custom Cabinets

Custom cabinets are a great way to make the most of your storage space. You can design custom cabinets to fit your specific needs and preferences. For example, you could create a cabinet for your shoes or a cabinet to store your craft supplies.

1. Overhead Storage

If you have a garage or a basement, overhead storage is an excellent way to maximize your storage space. You can install shelves or cabinets on the ceiling to store items like seasonal decorations, sports equipment, or camping gear.

1. Corner Storage

Finally, don't forget about corner storage. Corner shelving units or cabinets can be a great way to make the most of otherwise unused space. You could use a corner unit to store items like books, decorative items, or even clothing.

Whether you choose hidden storage, multi-purpose furniture, built-in shelving, vertical storage, custom cabinets, overhead storage, or corner storage, M.T. McCaw is sure to find a solution that works for your space. So get creative, and start maximizing your storage space today!

Contact us for a free Consultation

Kitchen Trends for 2023

Our needs are always changing and what we expect out of remodels does too! Kitchen remodels for example are meant to help enhance out lives and how we use our space; and we've complied the top three Kitchen trends for 2023.

1. Bold, Dark Colors: One of the biggest trends in kitchen design for 2023 is the use of bold, dark colors. This means that we'll see more kitchens with black or navy blue cabinets, as well as dark countertops and backsplashes. This trend is all about creating a sophisticated, moody vibe in the kitchen, and it can be achieved by using rich, textured materials like stone or wood.
   

2. Smart Appliances: In 2023, we're likely to see more homeowners investing in smart appliances for their kitchens. This includes things like smart refrigerators that can create shopping lists, ovens that can be controlled from a smartphone, and dishwashers that can adjust their settings based on the load. With the rise of home automation, it's becoming easier than ever to make your kitchen work for you.
   

3. Open Shelving: Another trend that's likely to be popular in kitchen remodeling for 2023 is the use of open shelving instead of traditional cabinets. This means that homeowners will be removing upper cabinets in favor of open shelves, which can create a more airy, open feel in the kitchen. It also allows for more customization and creativity in the kitchen design, as homeowners can use the shelves to display their favorite dishes and accessories.

Ultimately it's about person preference and we can help sort out what you may need for any space remodel!