Ideas For A Beautiful Entryway

 Tips To Create An Entryway For A Dream Home

Llano, United States  /Sterling Creek Builders/

Though homes serve a primary purpose of providing shelter, they also need to look beautiful. Homes provide families with safety, comfort, and joy. That's why homes are designed thoughtfully to provide functional spaces that are beautiful and welcoming. Custom homes are built to suit the requirements of families, reflect their character and lifestyle preferences, and provide them with a beautiful environment that sparks joy. 

A custom builder designs every part of a home with these factors in consideration. Custom builder Sterling  Creek Builders in Llano, Texas, builds homes that put clients' needs and wants first and are unique. In this article, Sterling Creek Builders shares some ideas to make an entryway look inviting and still have some functional advantages. 

Entryways greet guests and also create their first impression of the home. There has to be a balance between creating a great first impression of the home and offering a warm welcome to guests in the entryway. They are designed, and decor is chosen for this purpose. An entryway sets the tone of the home while providing a transition to larger living areas. 

Some tips to make entryways look appealing

 

1. Walls That Make A Statement

As the space that shows visitors a glimpse of the homeowners' character, the entryway must make a statement. A patterned wallpaper may make for an interesting touch. A wall painted with a bold color or painted paneling can make a statement too. For small or narrow entryways with less natural light, a lighter paint like cream or bone tones may give a more open appearance. More options of art, accessories, and installations are possible with lighter-colored walls.

2. Custom Storage

Entryways can get cluttered with many objects. But this space can benefit from custom storage. A custom home can have storage above the door, or to its sides that add an aesthetic symmetry and allow a lot to be stashed away conveniently. The storage can have a veneer or finish that complements the interiors and adds texture and warmth. Discussing this with the home builder will help plan the door and storage positions in the most advantageous ways. 

3. Seating

A bench or elegant chair can be an elegant and practical element. This seating arrangement offers a comfortable setup to take off shoes or wear them when entering or leaving home. A chair or bench with raised legs gives an illusion of a more spacious setting. A bench with space within for storage can be used to stow away footwear or other essentials. 

4. Mirror 

A mirror in the entryway not only does the classic designer magic of making a small space look bigger, but it can also be a statement piece that showcases the homeowner's style. The traditional rectangular mirror can be replaced with a round mirror that looks chic while giving the hallway a spacious look. It should be remembered that the mirror must reflect a pleasant view.

5. A Focal Point

Something that draws focus adds interest to the room. A statement color palette or an eye-catching design sparks interest and tells a story. A rustic look can be created with cozy textures and art that brings a warm look. For a more modern look, graphic prints or sleek marble or glass decor pieces can be used. 

6. Lighting

Lighting can make or break the final look of any space. A sconce or a ceiling light fixture can bring light and intrigue into the entryway. Though hallways can be dimly lit, beautiful light fixtures can act like decor, and beautiful lighting can make a space more dynamic and functional. 

7. Look Down

Hallway carpets offer so many different decorating options as they come in a range of colors and textures. They also add warmth and softness to the entrance. A carpet made of natural plant fiber is a sustainable choice for the high-traffic entryway. In small entryways, the floor can be made the focal point. A beautiful runner can add a dash of color and texture. In a long entryway, a series of small patterned runners can be placed one after the other. It is better to choose rugs that are durable to withstand the heavy footfall in the hallway.

A good custom home builder can design an entryway that reflects the taste of the homeowners and provides a comfortable welcome to visitors. Sterling Creek Builders does residential construction in Llano, Texas, that offers incredible services and unparalleled results to clients. Clients in Texas Hill County can contact them to build a new construction home or remodel an existing home. Sterling Creek Builders in Llano, Texas, is just a phone call away, and clients looking to build their dream home can reach them by dialing (325) 603-1300.   

Ideas For A Beautiful Entryway ,images,11-07-22

 

Designing A Home Office

Considerations When Designing A Home Office

Llano, United States - /Sterling Creek Builders/

Homes are built to provide families with spaces that meet their different requirements. Home design trends include a home office or a multifunctional space that can be used as a home office. The need for home offices was most acutely felt during the pandemic. Home offices are still popular with hybrid work options, and people are getting more comfortable working from home.

 

With the rising number of people telecommuting at least part-time, home offices also have an important place in designing a new home. This article by Sterling Creek Builders in Llano, Texas, gives some insight into aspects that should go into the design of a home office. Sterling Creek Builders is a Top Rated Local Custom Home Builder that works with customers to create a dream home, whether a renovation or a new construction home.

Designing a Home Office

1. A Place In The Functional Layout That Works

Whether creating a floor plan for a new home or creating a workspace in an existing home, an ideal space that is preferably away from noisy hubs in a home must be chosen for the home office. Having a home office on the same floor as a game room may not be ideal. Especially with the challenge of space, a spacious den on the main floor or a bedroom with ample space can multifunction as a home office. The room needs a door to ensure privacy and should ideally have windows that let in natural light and proper ventilation. There must be enough space for basic furniture, equipment, and storage.

2. Colors That Work

Home offices can have colors to inspire or relax users. Bolder hues and textures may provide a cheery atmosphere for work. While purple is said to project affluence and sophistication, red or gold accents can add energy and excitement to a workspace. Some may prefer more serene color palettes. Blue shades can be calming, and browns and grays give a sense of clarity and stability. Serene colors with a vibrant accent wall can offer a calming effect with a pop of color that adds vitality. Colors can also be brought in with desk accessories or rugs.

3. Layout and Furniture

Like kitchens are designed around a work triangle, home offices can benefit from a thoughtful layout. The ability to move around can boost productivity and allow comfortable work. Having the same flooring as the rest of the home will provide a seamless look. Rugs can be used to add warmth and texture. 

Office furniture requirements will depend on the nature of work done. However, an ergonomic chair is essential. Large desks offer space to spread out documents when working and for the required computer accessories. 

4. Storage Space

To ensure maximum efficiency, having all office supplies, equipment, and files in the home office is essential. This helps to limit the home office in between and keeps the focus on work. This calls for enough storage space. Many options are available, like floor-to-ceiling custom built-ins with open shelving, closed cabinets, and drawers to keep files and bulky supplies. Modular freestanding or wall-mounted storage can work, especially if the workspace is a flexible, multifunctional space. Filing systems, stackable shelves, and baskets can segregate and organize office supplies and papers. Using vertical space will free up floor space. Vision boards and filing slots can be affixed to walls. 

5. Keep Technology In

When working in a home office, seamless access to the internet is essential. Video conferences and other means of communication with clients and coworkers should happen without annoying lags and glitches. If the home Wi-Fi is being used, adequate bandwidth must be chosen. 

6. Personal Touches

A home office should have elements that reflect the user's personality and make it a more welcoming and comfortable space to work from. Decor or artwork that the homeowner appreciates and enjoys can be placed. Furniture and features like fireplaces can also be included to make the room more comfortable and bring a luxurious vibe. 

7. Lighting

Home offices must have adequate lighting. Table lamps can provide task lighting for reading and computer work. General lighting can be done with chandeliers or floor lamps. Lighting is essential to reduce the strain on the eyes when working for long.

Any space can be designed to be beautiful and functional. Home offices are no different. In Llano, Texas, homeowners building new homes or carrying out remodeling can rely on home builder Sterling Creek Builders. This custom home builder has been in business since 2008 and has been catering to residential construction needs across the Hill Country area since 2015. A phone call to (325) 603-1300 is enough to get in touch with Sterling Creek Builders in Llano, a custom home builder that facilitates the entire process of residential construction,  from engineering to the selection of the best options and features for a custom home.

Designing A Home Office, Images, 06-13-22

 

Ideas To Create Elder Friendly Homes

 Creating Elder Friendly Homes Through Thoughtfully Designed Custom Homes

Llano, United States - /Sterling Creek Builders/

The 2019 estimates by the Census Bureau show the above 65 and older population is the fastest-growing age group in the US. This age group grew by a third between 2010 and 2019. Just between 2018 and 2019, the above-65-year-old population grew by 3.2%. When buying or moving into a new home or redesigning existing homes, more and more homeowners must consider the needs of aging family members. Homes need to be planned to keep in mind the aged, they may be homeowners planning for retired life in the future or families of senior individuals who are their caregivers or helping to find a suitable dwelling.  Any living space can be transformed into elder-friendly homes when modified.

When an aged person is anchored to a place, it leads to better health and happiness. This is possible when they have support from family members or home health care aides and a safe and comfortable site. Homeowners can consider aging-in-place requirements when renovating their homes as they prepare for retirement or develop health problems. Whether building a new home or remodeling, a custom home builder can help design a home that meets the needs of the aging members of a family. Sterling Creek Builders is a locally owned and highly experienced new home construction company operating across the Texas Hill Country, with an office in Llano, Texas. This team of construction experts works closely with clients to find the best possible design and materials to build a home that fulfills their needs for a dream home.

Aspects to Take Care of While Creating Elder Friendly Homes

1. Lighting

The homes of older adults need to have adequate light to ensure they can see clearly and minimize the risk of falls. Harsh lighting that causes glare and shadows, which can be trip hazards, must be avoided. Instead, indirect lighting can be used. In bedrooms, two-way switches that allow lights to be turned on and off from the doorway and bedside are helpful. Switches can be installed at the bottom and top of stairways. The cooking area and kitchen cabinets can be fitted with below-the-cabinet lights. Outdoor areas, reading areas, bathrooms, and workspaces like the kitchen or garage must be adequately lit.

2. Flooring

Rugs must be avoided if possible. If used, nonskid mats can be placed beneath the rugs. High-pile or padded rugs and carpets are best avoided as trip hazards. Instead, rubber or cork floor surfaces are smooth, soft, and anti-slip. The floor must be kept as level as possible. This will reduce the risk of stumbling and falls and allow wheelchair mobility. Where unavoidable, level changes must be marked with texture or color changes that do not affect depth perception. 

3. Bathroom Design

Bathrooms are high-risk areas for falls. Anti-slip floor tiles are best for bathrooms. A base row of contrast wall tiles will make it easy to differentiate the wall from the floor. Thoughtful additions like a hand-held shower wand would aid in having a safe and independent self-care routine. Grab bars will help provide an anchor and aid safe movement. A toilet seat and bowl placed at an optimal height is less stressful to the back and knees. A bathroom door that opens outwards allows others to enter quickly to assist without the position of the person inside being affected. Level style faucets come in handy. A home builder like Sterling Creek Builders in Llano will have the expertise and insight to help with a thoughtfully designed bathroom being built with such requirements.

4. Kitchen Layout

Seating arrangements can be made in the kitchen so that they can take breaks during tasks or sit while preparing food. If a portable kitchen island is used, it can be moved to facilitate movement on a wheelchair when needed. Pullout drawers installed under the countertop will help limit the need to bend when getting things. A smaller kitchen work triangle that links the working distance between the sink, cooker, and fridge, will reduce the walking needed in the kitchen. Fixing appliances like ovens at a suitable height will be more comfortable and safer while using. 

5. Stair Safety

Stairs should be well lit, with switches at the top and bottom. Steps must be clearly defined to show the edge of the tread. Neon stickers may be placed if necessary. Handrails are a must and must be present on both sides if possible. 

6. Plan to Make It Easier

With aging, the ability to multitask and the act of walking and balancing can become increasingly challenging. To promote independence as much as possible, some things can be implemented. Door knobs can be difficult to turn and can be replaced by door levers. Having a table or surface for keys, packages, and mail at the entryway will prevent unnecessary fumbling and things from being dropped. A comfortable chair to remove or change footwear may be kept at the entrance if needed. 

Homes must always be safe and comfortable. This is especially so for the aged to maintain their quality of life. Residential construction experts like Sterling Creek Builders in Llano, Texas, are the best choice to design a home of excellence and quality. Customers across the Texas Hill Country can contact them via email at john@sterlingcreekbuilders.com or the Llano office of Sterling Creek Builders at 210 E Tarrant Street. 

Ideas To Create Elder Friendly Homes, Images 19-05-2022

 

Custom Homes for Pets

 Tips to Make A Custom Home Pet Friendly

Llano, United States - /Sterling Creek Builders/

Pets are an important part of most American households. The 2021-2011 APPA (American Pet Products Association) National Pet Owners Survey said that 70% of US households have a pet. This is approximately 90.5 million homes that have a pet. Data shows that the pandemic only contributed to pet industry sales exceeding $100 billion, with people becoming more focused on their pets than ever. Pet industry spending has been forecast by Morgan Stanley to triple to $275 billion by 2030. 

It is only natural that pet owners would like their pets to live in homes that are comfortable for them. When building custom homes, pet owners can incorporate elements to make them pet friendly. Sterling Creek Builders are a locally owned and experienced team that specializes in new home construction. Their residential construction services are available in Texas. Sterling Creek Builders in Llano, Texas, shares some ways to make a custom home that keeps pets comfortable and happy.

Pet Doors

A family with a dog or cat knows how often they need to be let out and come back in. A pet entrance door can give pets their freedom without inconveniencing the family. It can be designed to be locked in instances when the pets are not allowed outside. For those concerned about other animals entering, pet collar sensor doors that open only when the pet is near might help. 

Bath friendly space

Pets need to be kept clean, and anyone who has bathed a dog knows this can be a messy job. Having a place to bath pets near the entrance is convenient and will keep the house neater too. A washing area in the mudroom near a back or front door, a washing station in a laundry room near the garage, or a shower outdoors can be included in a custom home. 

Pet-Friendly Floors

The choice of flooring is very important in households with pets. How easy they are to clean and durability are key. Carpets get messy, are difficult to clean, and can retain odors for a long time. Fur and dust also get trapped in carpets, often necessitating professional cleaning. Hard, durable surfaces like hardwood or laminate are more pet-friendly. Rugs can be added for warmth and color, and are easier to clean. 

Entertaining Pets 

Pets do spend a lot of time indoors and alone. Providing some means to keep them occupied is a good idea. A large window that allows sunlight in and from which dogs or cats can stare out is a great start. Bay windows provide a view and comfy seating that also keeps them off the sofa! Having yard space is a bonus if possible, that allows them a run and fresh air. Cats might enjoy having shelves to climb and jump about overhead. Pet tunnels are also a fun addition if they can be included. Custom home builders can incorporate such features if requirements are communicated. 

Using Space 

Pets need a lot of things like pet food, grooming tools, blankets, shampoo, soap, toys, etc. These need storage space in the laundry room or kitchen maybe. Building a sleeping space in the cabinetry, like beneath the stairs or in the laundry room, can be considered. Doggy crates or cat litter boxes can also be kept out of sight in specially designed cabinetry or a corner that is conveniently out of plain sight. 

Arrangements For Other Pets

Though dogs and cats are common pets, there are other pet animals that owners give as much care and attention, if not more. Depending on what pet the owners have, custom homes can be designed with appropriate features. There can be built-in aquariums for fish. Special enclosures or built-in cages may be constructed for birds or reptiles, or an entire room dedicated for such pets. Stables and outdoor areas for feeding and exercise will need to be designed if horses are kept.

 

Homes are made complete by the people living in them, and pets are important family members. Custom homes can be designed to be welcoming and comfortable spaces for owners and their pets. Professionals like Sterling Creek Builders understand that a new construction home is built to suit the homeowner’s preferences, and they provide customized plans to align with the homeowner’s goals. They have been building custom homes across the Texas Hill Country that are the embodiment of quality, value, and beauty. Sterling Creek Builders in Llano, Texas, can be reached at (325)603-1300 for assistance with any residential construction projects.