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The Launch Pad

A great mudroom is not just a place to hide your stuff; it’s about making the mad dash out the door less maddening. This well-designed space makes the best use of storage with custom carpenter-built cabinetry allowing all family members a spot for their needs, down to the family pet. That mountain of shoes and boots will become a thing of the past and out of sight.

“I set out to create a mudroom that was more than just a place to store coats and backpacks,” said Normandy Designer Kathryn O’Donovan. “I planned a mudroom that created a smooth transition between the outside and the inside.”

Carpenter-built cabinetry allows you to customize the shelving and drawers based on your storage needs. Mail slots are a convenient way to organize important documents for each member of the family and there’s even a convenient docking station for a quick charge. Bench seating on top of pull-out shelves is great for pulling on boots and shoes in a hurry. There are plenty of hooks to hang coats and backpacks and surplus storage under the bench for sports equipment.

Everything was thought of to keep you organized and make your life a little less hectic even down to the built-in pet dishes. This stunning display is just one of many you’ll find at the new Normandy Remodeling North Shore Design Studio. Stop by to take a look around and get inspired for your own remodeling project. For directions to the nearest Design Studio to you, visit normandyremodeling.com/showrooms.  You can also find inspiration for your addition, kitchen, or major renovation at normandyremodeling.com or on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or Houzz.

A Family Affair Basement

In days gone by, a drop ceiling, a bit of paneling on the walls, and a TV could turn a basement into a “finished” recreation room. When it comes to creating a modern lower level for everyday use, most homeowners now demand higher-quality finishes and a multi-function space.

“Converting your basement into finished space is a great way to use every inch of your home’s footprint,” said Normandy Designer Jeremy Paris. “When you are working with a wide open space like a basement, the options are endless for creating the living area you’ve always envisioned.”

Many times there are natural divisions in a basement such as structural beams and columns that determine the layout. The primary social space typically flows from where you enter the basement and the other rooms or functions are located on the periphery.

A finished basement can serve as an entertainment room, complete with a lounge area and a large, flat screen television with built in cabinetry and a bar. A perfect setting for the whole family to enjoy a movie, teens and tweens to play video games, or overflow space for entertaining. The other areas of the basement can be designated for a playroom for little ones, a home office, or fitness area, rounding out the space and making it multi-functional for all to enjoy. Just be sure to account for access to mechanical equipment and leave room for a storage area for luggage, holiday décor and other large and infrequently used items.

If you host out-of-town guests frequently in your home, then you may want to consider turning part of your basement into a space for company, adding a bathroom, bedroom and even a small kitchenette. This could be an investment in the future and act as a mini-apartment for adult children that opt to move home for a bit.

“Using similar fixtures and finishes from the rest of your house in your lower level remodel will help you turn your basement into a room that looks and feels truly part of the home rather than an after-thought,” Jeremy added.

If you are looking for ways to make the best use of your basement or contemplating more extensive changes to your home, you can set up a time with Jeremy to talk about the possibilities. You can also learn more about additions, kitchens or other remodeling projects at an upcoming workshop. Check out the photo gallery or follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook and Instagram for even more home tips and inspiration.

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