Categories Blog, Recent Work

Attic Turned Master Suite

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Our team recently finished turning an old attic into a gorgeous master suite. The remodel was truly a major transformation that gave the homeowners additional space in their own home, including an additional bathroom, bedroom and walk-in closet.  It’s always a great pleasure when we can add space (and value) to our clients home and allow them to stay in the town they love.

We also were able to make updates to the office space to make room for a staircase leading up to the master suite.

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Thanks for reading/viewing!

  • Ed McDonald & team

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Categories Blog, Tips

Open vs. Closed Kitchen Styles – Which Is Better for you?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Thinking of remodeling your kitchen? While the majority of our clients renovating these days opt-in for an open kitchen concept, there are also benefits to having a closed kitchen design. Are you looking for a more private room or a multi-functioning space for hosting? Check out the benefits of having an open and closed kitchen to help you decide which would be better utilized in your home.

Here are the top 3 reasons why you should consider an open kitchen –

McDonald Contracting Arlington

1. Great for hosting – An open floor plan is ideal for homeowners who love to host frequent parties or gatherings. If you’re hosting Christmas Dinner and want to interact with your guests while you’re whipping up appetizers, this is a good option so you won’t miss any of the fun. An open floor plan also allows for more seating and encourages guests to move around.

2. Makes home feel larger – An open kitchen allows for more natural sunlight in turn reducing your energy bill. By having less walls, you have more open space giving off the feel of bigger rooms and higher ceilings.


3. Optimizes Multitasking – Planning on having a family soon? Open kitchens can be great for young kids as you can keep your eyes on multiple rooms at a time! Check on the kids doing homework in the living room, while you’re preparing dinner at your kitchen island.

The more individual rooms there are in your home, the more opportunity you have to get creative with paint colors and wall space to decorate. Check out the top reasons why a closed kitchen design may be better for you –

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1. Cost-Friendly – Knocking down walls can create unforeseen problems and can cost serious renovation dollars. If things like high end appliances and countertops are more important to you, you may want to leave the structure as is and allocate your budget to the priorities on your wish list.

2. More storage – The more wall space, the more room for shelving, cabinetry and hidden closets. If you’re looking for a functional, secluded room with lots of storage, this could be a good option for your home.

3. More privacy – More walls also mean more privacy. Having a closed kitchen design hides a messy room full of dirty dishes – Some hosts want to prep, cook and clean without interruption so that they can provide a more formal dining experience for their guests.

The final decision is up to you, the homeowner. It’s not all black and white and you can meet in the middle somewhere by considering a cutout in your kitchen wall (as long as it’s a non-load bearing wall). 

There’s always going to be a new trend… Don’t succumb to what’s in, but rather decide based upon which option works best for lifestyle and personal preference. Want to start the conversation? We’d love to sit and talk with you about which kitchen layout works best in your home ===> [email protected]

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We hope you found this blog post helpful when it comes to designing your next kitchen!

Thanks for reading,
– The Team at McDonald Contracting

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Categories Blog, Tips

Tips to Winterize Your Home

Winter

As another New England winter rolls in, there are many ways you can protect your home from damage. Our team works closely with homeowners to ensure their home is ready for whatever Mother Nature may deliver this year. Not sure where to start on your own home?

  • Get Your Gutters in Place & Clean: Take a look at your gutters. Are they facing towards your house? If so, you need to fix them so the water flows away, not towards the structure of your home. Also, make sure your gutters are free and clear of any leaves to avoid water build-up.
  • Make Sure Doors & Windows Are Weathertight: Make sure all windows and exterior doors are weather tight so there are no drafts; This will keep the wind, snow, and wet weather out.
  • Check for Window Sill Damage: Water damage to your window sill is caused by sitting moisture. If you have a rotten or moldy sill, it is important to replace it before further damage is done to the structure of your home.
  • Use Heated Cables: Ice dams can cause big headaches for homeowners and heated cables can help protect your house from them. Without these cables, the water that backs up behind the ice dams can leak into your home, causing damage to walls, ceilings and insulation.

Thanks for reading! Let us know if you need any help protecting your home this winter!

The McDonald Contracting Team