8 Remodeling Touches That Make a Big Difference

After we did our remodel, our contractor suggested a million things I had never really thought about. They were not necessarily design concerns; they were more quality-of-life concerns — just small things you didn’t know you were missing until you had them.

Listed below are eight small touches I didn’t know I couldn’t live without until I lived together. What are yours?

ExpressDecor

1. An integrated dish soap dispenser. Because I really don’t care how nice the jar is; it’s only one more thing cluttering up your countertop.

2. Soft-close hinges. It is not possible to slam a drawer or cupboard in my kitchen. Each closes with a small whisper. It’s relaxing.

Chang + Sylligardos Architects

3. Huge kitchen drawers. Looking right into a well-lit space is much better than looking deep into a dark cupboard. In this kitchen large drawers have completely replaced cabinets. Just make sure they’re soft near.

Echelon Custom Homes

4. Undercabinet lighting. I know this seems like no-brainer, however before I had it I never knew just how useful it might be for task light and mood light. But spring for LEDs. We opted for fluorescent to save money, and we regret it.

Lumens

Maestro Incandescent Smart Light Dimmer by Lutron – $41.50

5. Dimmer switches. Because there are several thousand stops involving off and on.

Site lines architecture inc..

6. A garage keypad. You’ll never be locked out of your home again.

Jessica Helgerson Interior Design

7. A motion-activated porch light. You’ll never fumble in the dark for your keys.

Land Design, Inc..

8. An automated drip system. Folks told us they did. But we didn’t listen, and due to that we killed a great deal of plants over 12 years. This past year we finally had an irrigation system set in. The yard is nicer, the crops are healthier and life is simpler.

Your turn: What small fixes are you glad you additional — or sorry you didn’t include?

More: 100 Contractor Tips Every Homeowner Should Read

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