Month: October 2024

Kitchen Design Trend: How To Master The Cottagecore Aesthetic

There’s nothing quite like the allure of nature and the cozy feeling of the fresh outdoors. That’s why cottagecore is far from a design trend. It’s a lifestyle! If you know, you know, and Revive Design and Renovation is here with some useful tips on how to master the cottagecore aesthetic for your kitchen remodel.

Close Your Eyes and Place Yourself In An Enchanted Forest…

Where do you normally see lived-in cottages with overgrowth hugging the chimney and pebble stones leading to the rounded wooden door? The forest, of course! While you might not be able to recreate that particular scene in an urban setting, you can bring that sense of charm into your very own kitchen with the right mindset. Think about what you would normally find in a lush forest and imagine how you might incorporate those materials into your cottagecore-themed kitchen.

Here are some ideas to help you get started on your foundation:

• Wooden floors and furniture for a cabin-like look and feel.
• Floral patterns wherever they can fit, like on your walls or in your accent pieces.
• A touch of greenery here and there to mirror age-old trees or beautiful meadows.

We just gave you some useful tips, but there are really no set rules to abide by. As we said before, cottagecore is a lifestyle so you have to place yourself in your dream setting and just go for it!

Set the Stage For Playing Out Your Childhood Fantasies

Achieving a cottagecore kitchen is all about finding inspiration that speaks to you, so you have to get those creative juices flowing! Let’s play fairytale princess for a second. Imagine spending an entire day pouring your love into a beautiful pie. Proud of your creation, you carry it ever so delicately to the windowsill so it can cool to perfection. Now, what did that kitchen look like?

In this scenario, a kitchen designed for baking is essential. Your wooden cabinets may have organizational features to hold your baking pans, dough rollers, and oven mitts. You most likely imagined a lot of natural lighting coming in, so sizable windows with light curtains could be on the plan as well.

Get the Picture? Here Are More Cottagecore Kitchen Ideas to Get You Going:

While you’re dreaming up your new cottagecore kitchen, take a look at these other popular ideas that fit this timeless theme:

• Soft, muted paint colors that are easy on the eyes
• Open shelving and cubbies for spices and knick-knacks
• Copper or brass hardware and fixture finishes for a vintage look
• Decorated porcelain accents or decor
• Finishing touches like candles and wicker baskets

The Lesson Here Is to Be Yourself!

Every successful cottagecore kitchen comes from evoking a true feeling of wonder, not from following a textbook blueprint. Think woodsy atmosphere and what you might find when secluded from modern civilization. If you’re truly a cottagecore girlie, you already know how you want your kitchen space. All you need to do is express your ideas and feelings to our design team, and we’ll take it from there!

Create Your Dream Cottagecore Kitchen With Revive Design And Renovation

We’re here to give you the kitchen you want, no matter the vision. That’s why you can trust Revive Design and Renovation to deliver a cottagecore kitchen remodel that’s everything you ever dreamed of! Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation.

What Is the Most Durable Vanity and Countertop Material?

When it comes to designing your dream bathroom, there’s one question that matters as much as any design choice: What’s the most durable material I can choose for my bathroom vanity and countertop? After all, this is the area of your St. Petersburg bathroom that gets the most action—constant spills, a daily dose of heat and humidity, and more than a few accidental scuffs from grooming tools and products.

If your vanity area doesn’t stand up to the test, well, all the beauty and style in the world won’t mean much if it’s scratched or damaged beyond recognition a few years down the road. So, let’s get down to it. Here’s our top choice for a bathroom vanity that won’t back down, plus a few contenders that hold their own beautifully.

The Winner: Quartz – Beauty and Strength Combined

When it comes to durability, quartz is the reigning champ, and it’s easy to see why. Quartz countertops bring together crushed natural stone and high-tech resins to create a material that’s both insanely tough and visually stunning. But what sets quartz apart in terms of durability? Let’s just say it’s got layers of reasons! Here’s why quartz wins:

1. Scratch Resistance: Unlike softer stone surfaces, quartz resists the daily wear and tear you throw its way—whether it’s a hot curling iron or a hasty swipe of your razor.
2. Non-Porous, Stain-Resistant Surface: Because quartz is non-porous, it doesn’t soak up any makeup spills or other liquids that could otherwise stain a countertop. Less scrubbing, more style? Yes, please.
3. Heat Resistance: Quartz can handle heat well enough to tolerate day-to-day hot objects without damage, though we wouldn’t recommend leaving a hot curling iron on it for too long.

Learn More: Are Floating Bathroom Vanities Timeless? Our Take

Honorable Mentions: Materials That Stand Out

While quartz takes the crown, these contenders deserve a spot on your bathroom vanity and countertop shortlist:

• Granite:A natural stone that’s known for its durability and heat resistance. Granite can withstand hot curling irons and hair straighteners without flinching. It’s also available in a variety of stunning colors and patterns, adding a touch of natural beauty to your bathroom.
• Dekton:This ultra-compact surface is a relative newcomer to the scene, but it’s quickly gaining popularity for its exceptional durability and resistance to scratches, stains, and heat. Dekton is also UV-resistant, making it a great choice for ultra-sunny spaces.
• Solid Surface:Solid surface materials, like Corian, offer a seamless and hygienic option that’s easy to clean and maintain. They’re also less expensive than natural stone, making them a budget-friendly choice for those seeking durability without breaking the bank.
• Porcelain Slab: It’s the true “dark horse” of durability. Porcelain slabs might not be as well-known, but they’ve proven their worth in durability. Made from ultra-dense, glazed porcelain, they deliver exceptional scratch and stain resistance. They can mimic the look of marble or stone, but with a fraction of the upkeep.

Learn More: What Makes a Bathroom Luxurious? Our Favorite Features

Create a Bathroom With Craftsmanship That Endures—Get Started With Revive Design & Renovation Today

Isn’t it time your bathroom matched your vision for style and durability? At Revive Design & Renovation, we specialize in transforming St. Petersburg bathrooms into luxurious, lasting retreats. Whether you’re set on quartz or exploring other top-tier materials, our expert designers are ready to bring your dream space to life.

Let’s kick-start your St. Petersburg bathroom remodel! Reach out to us today—stop by our showroom or call us at (813) 822-9855 and let’s create a bathroom that’s not just beautiful—but built to stand the test of time.

Sustainable Kitchen Design Ideas For Eco-Friendly Homes

Are you a dedicated eco-savvy individual who does everything with sustainability in mind? You’ll be excited to hear that your kitchen remodel can help the environment, too! Leave it to your trusted experts at Revive Design and Renovation Brandon to introduce you to sustainable kitchen design ideas for eco-friendly homes.

LED Lighting Is the Easiest Fix

One of the easiest yet most impactful upgrades you can make is the switch from regular light bulbs to LED lighting fixtures. Outdated light bulbs use a ton of energy, and they need to be replaced almost as quickly as you install them. Not only is LED lighting brighter, but it uses up much less energy and can last for entire decades without needing to be replaced! These modern bulbs can work with all sorts of fixture styles for stunning kitchen layouts.

Read more > Our Lighting Ideas For the Best Kitchen Visibility

For Other Ways to Save Energy, Look For Appliances With the Star

Energy Star appliances have been a real lifesaver for every type of homeowner for ages, and that still holds true to this day. The results are hard to beat and it’s easy to reap the benefits. The next time you choose your kitchen appliances, just look for the Energy Star logo and you’re guaranteed to save on energy more than you would on an outdated stove or fridge. Many appliances nowadays qualify for this rating which makes it easy to find your exact preference and style while cutting down your energy usage.

Water Is a Precious Resource, Too!

Sustainability doesn’t just refer to electricity. Water is also a valuable resource that should be saved and preserved whenever possible, but that can be hard to do when you have to let the water run to get hot. Thanks to modern technology, this age-old problem is now a thing of the past! Instant water heaters can make your faucet produce the temperature you want without the wait so you can limit wasted water. These small boxes are a convenient size so they can fit underneath your kitchen sink with room to spare.

Go With Sustainable Materials. Here Are a Few:

As an eco-conscious homeowner, you know that ethically sourced materials can be just as important as saving energy. Why chop down precious trees when you can enjoy the look and feel of hardwood flooring with viable alternatives? You also want to watch out for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can infest the air and hurt the atmosphere.

Sustainable materials for your kitchen remodel can include:

• Bamboo flooring
• MDF flooring (medium-density fiberboard)
• Composite wood or plywood cabinets
• Stainless steel faucets
• VOC-free paint

Breathe Life Into Older Kitchen Items

Remember when they taught us about recycling in grade school? That lesson isn’t just for plastic bottles and containers. You can also reduce, reuse, and recycle home decor and furniture! Try picking and choosing select pieces to keep in your kitchen remodel, or try looking for secondhand items at your local thrift store. Whether it be a sink bowl, a set of dining chairs, or a lampshade, imagine how we might breathe new life into older items to blend in with your brand-new kitchen space.

Make Sure Your Kitchen Remodel Is Future-Proof

Planning ahead is also a great way to practice sustainability. It can take a lot of energy and resources to complete a kitchen remodel, but doing it right the first time to avoid the need for a future remodel can be seen as a way to help the environment. Go with a timeless design that won’t feel outdated decades from now, and incorporate long-lasting fixtures that won’t need to be replaced anytime soon.

Go Green With a Sustainable Kitchen From Revive Design and Renovation!

Your trusted design team at Revive Design and Renovation Brandon can help you plan out a sustainable kitchen for an eco-friendly remodel. Reach out to us today for a consultation on your kitchen remodel service!

Updating Your Homeowner’s Insurance Pre & Post-Remodel

You’ve dreamt of this moment for months (or years!)—the gorgeous new countertops, the spa-like shower, the kitchen that finally works for your family. A home remodel is an exciting investment, but with the thrill of transformation, it’s easy to overlook an important detail: your homeowner’s insurance. But how does your Tampa home remodel affect your homeowner’s insurance?

Don’t let your policy become an afterthought. Updating your coverage before and after a remodel is essential to ensure your investment is protected and you’re not caught off guard if the unexpected happens.

Checking Your Insurance Before Your Remodel

Before you set your design decisions in stone or start swinging hammers, make sure to review your current homeowner’s insurance policy. Here’s what to consider:

• Coverage Limits: Is your policy ready for the new chapter in your home’s story? With upgrades that enhance value, you’ll want your insurance to match your remodel’s worth—so you’re never left underinsured.
• Renovation Coverage: Some policies include a “renovation clause,” acting like a security blanket for your remodel. Make sure it’s in place to cover any unexpected mishaps or theft while your home is in its transformation phase.
• Building Materials: Storing pricey tile, custom cabinetry, or other luxury finishes? Double-check your policy for coverage on those materials—they’re just as important as the finished product!

Learn More: What Part of Your House Is the Most Worth Remodeling?

Staying Insured During Construction

The remodeling process is typically a chaotic time with plenty of activity, but don’t let your insurance coverage get lost in the shuffle. Keep these points in mind:

• Liability Coverage: Does your policy stand up to potential risks? Make sure it covers injuries on your property, so a stray nail or ladder mishap doesn’t leave you with headaches (or bills).
• Contractor Insurance: Not all contractors are created equal—some don’t carry the insurance needed to keep you safe. Confirm that your remodeler has robust liability and workers’ comp policies, protecting you from the unexpected.

Stay connected with your insurance agent throughout the remodel. Keep them in the loop on any new twists in your project to ensure you’re always covered.

Learn More: How to Vet a Home Remodeling Contractor

Updating Your Policy Post-Remodel

Once the dust settles and you’re enjoying your Tampa home remodel, you need to give your homeowner’s insurance policy a refresh.

• Document Your Upgrades: Keep a “remodel journal” with every detail—new fixtures, flooring, additions. Keeping receipts helps. The more thorough you are, the more likely all your investments are accounted for and properly covered.
• Schedule a Policy Review: Give your agent a call to update them on the new chapter of your home. They might suggest an appraisal to capture the true replacement cost of your transformed space.
• Review Your Coverage: Now’s your moment to reevaluate. Confirm that your policy fits your home’s fresh look and reflects its upgraded value, leaving no gap unprotected.

Finding the Perfect Partner for Your Home Transformation

Revive Design & Renovation knows your Tampa home remodel represents a whole new chapter, and we’re here to help you turn the page with confidence. Yes, we’ll craft stunning spaces that make your heart skip a beat, but we’re also the partner who won’t let the small yet significant details slip through the cracks.

Because here’s the truth: a remodel is a big deal, and it deserves a plan that covers all the bases, insurance included. We’ll work side by side with you to make sure your remodel doesn’t just look beautiful but also stands on solid ground, fully protected. Call us today at (813) 730-4954 or stop by our showroom for your free consultation. We’d love to help you create a space that feels like you—and make sure it stays that way, safe and sound, for years to come.

Should I Include A Microwave Drawer In My Kitchen Remodel?

As always, Revive Design and Renovation is here to tell you if something is just a fad or the next big thing! Today’s topic of discussion is microwave drawers. Will this be an appliance that you will regret having a couple of years from now, or will you be getting a jumpstart into the latest big innovation that will become the new standard in all households in the near future? Continue reading to find out whether or not you should include a microwave drawer in your kitchen remodel!

Never Seen a Microwave Drawer? Let Us Show You!

No, a microwave drawer is not a drawer for stashing away your microwave. A microwave drawer is built like a drawer, opening and closing with a sliding mechanism so that you can rest your food inside from the top. It looks similar to an oven in the way that it seamlessly blends in with the rest of your kitchen cabinetry. Innovative, isn’t it? You don’t even know the half of it, yet! We’re just about to get into all of the glorious benefits that you can enjoy by upgrading to this big stage in kitchen evolution.

Microwave Drawers Are a Great Space-Saver

Since microwave drawers are built into your kitchen’s existing cabinetry, you won’t have to worry about making space on the counter or having an imposing metal box hovering over you when you’re using the stove. Finally, the countertop is your oyster to do with what you will! Use this reclaimed space for a quirky mug tree or a delightful fruit bowl. The possibilities are truly endless.

This Appliance Is Everyone-Friendly!

Microwaves that are installed above the oven are practically off-limits to shorter individuals, whether they be children or adults of smaller stature. Being discriminated against for your uncontrollable height is just wrong, but thankfully microwave drawers can easily be used by anybody without needing to have a dedicated kitchen stool nearby. Now that’s just convenient!

Cleaning a Drawer vs Cleaning a Box

Getting into all of the corners and crevices when cleaning out a microwave can be a hassle, especially when the door keeps swinging back around to tap your shoulder or when you need to get on a stool just to reach the back of the box. Why struggle any harder than you have to? You’re already a busybody and your time is precious. Microwave drawers can save you headaches with its easy to clean interior. When they’re installed low, cleaning out a microwave drawer is as easy as cleaning out any other drawer.

They’re Anything But Tacky

It doesn’t always line up with where newer appliances perform better and fit into current home designs. Microwave drawers are an exception, delivering all sorts of benefits without being a complete eyesore. They pretty much just look like a mini oven which makes them fit into any kitchen aesthetic be it modern or classic.

We Predict This One to Be Future-Proof!

With so many amazing benefits and a universal style, we can’t imagine microwave drawers not taking off in the next couple of years. There aren’t any downsides which means that there’s no reason not to make the upgrade, and so you can rest assured that this particular appliance will be a worthy investment for your timeless kitchen space!

Ask For a Microwave Drawer For Your Kitchen Remodel at Revive Design and Renovation

Dying to have a microwave drawer in your new kitchen? Your wish is our command! Just let us know during your consultation and we’ll make it happen. Reach out to us today to get started on your new kitchen remodel!