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Home Building Tips
When it comes to creating your dream backyard oasis, few things are as enticing as having a swimming pool. However, choosing the right type of pool for your specific needs and preferences can be a daunting task. Three popular options in the market are gunite, fiberglass, and liner pools. In this blog post, we will compare these pool types, exploring their characteristics, advantages, and considerations to help you make an informed decision.
When it comes to building a new home, location is key. Nestled in the beautiful southwestern corner of Michigan, Berrien County offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, vibrant communities, and endless opportunities. From its stunning lakefront vistas to its thriving economy, there are numerous reasons why building a home in Berrien County is a fantastic choice. In this blog post, we will explore the many great things about building a home in Berrien County,
In today's modern world, homeowners have an array of options when it comes to heating water for their daily needs. Two popular choices are tankless water heaters and traditional water heaters. While both serve the same purpose, they have significant differences in terms of efficiency, cost, and convenience. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of tankless water heaters and traditional water heaters, helping you make an informed decision for your home.
The kitchen is the heart of any home, and designing the perfect kitchen in your new home is a thrilling opportunity to blend functionality, style, and personal flair. When working with a reputable builder like Mark Scott Homes, you can ensure a well-crafted space that caters to your unique needs. In this blog post, we will guide you through the essential elements and considerations for creating the best kitchen in your new home.
Thoughtful Layout and Flow:
A well-designed kitchen starts with careful planning. Collaborate with the your team to determine the most efficient layout for your kitchen. Consider the classic kitchen work triangle, which connects the stove, sink, and refrigerator, allowing for easy movement and optimal functionality. Aim for a layout that maximizes counter space, minimizes traffic congestion, and creates a seamless flow for cooking, cleaning, and entertaining.
Quality Materials and Appliances:
When working with Mark Scott Homes, you can expect superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. Opt for high-quality materials that combine durability with aesthetic appeal. Choose sturdy cabinetry, countertops, and flooring that withstand the demands of daily use. Select appliances that align with your cooking style and preferences, ensuring they offer the latest technology and energy efficiency for a seamless culinary experience.
Ample Storage and Organization:
Storage is essential in any kitchen. Work closely with your designer to incorporate ample storage solutions that cater to your needs. Utilize a mix of cabinets, drawers, and pantry space to optimize organization and keep your kitchen clutter-free. Consider features such as pull-out shelves, spice racks, and customized dividers to make the most of every inch of storage space.
Functional Workspaces:
A well-designed kitchen provides functional workspaces for food preparation, cooking, and cleanup. Incorporate a spacious and durable countertop where you can comfortably chop, mix, and assemble ingredients. Install a multi-burner stove and a well-placed range hood to create an efficient cooking area. Don't forget to include a functional sink with easy access to water and a dishwasher for convenient cleanup.
Lighting and Ambiance:
Proper lighting is crucial in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen. Strategically place a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to ensure a well-lit workspace. Consider pendant lights over the island, under-cabinet lighting for countertop tasks, and dimmable fixtures to set the mood during meal times or gatherings. Collaborate with your designer to create a lighting plan that complements your kitchen's design and enhances its functionality.
Personal Touches and Design Elements:
Infuse your personality into the kitchen design by incorporating unique design elements and personal touches. Consider adding a backsplash with a captivating pattern or texture, incorporating statement fixtures, or integrating open shelving to showcase your favorite kitchenware or decor. Work with the professionals at Mark Scott Homes to find the perfect balance between style, functionality, and personalization.
Conclusion:
With the expertise of Mark Scott Homes, you can create the best kitchen for your new home, where functionality meets style and craftsmanship. By considering layout, quality materials, storage solutions, functional workspaces, lighting, and personal touches, you can design a kitchen that perfectly suits your lifestyle and culinary aspirations. Collaborate with the skilled team at Mark Scott Homes to transform your vision into a reality and create a kitchen that will be the heart of your new home for years to come.
Designing your new home can be an exciting and creative process, but it can also be overwhelming with countless options to consider. Thankfully, Pinterest has emerged as a powerful tool that can transform your design journey into a visually stunning and organized experience. In this blog post, we'll explore how you can effectively use Pinterest to gather ideas, refine your vision, and create a beautiful and personalized home design.
Creating a Vision Board:
Pinterest allows you to create virtual vision boards where you can curate images, ideas, and inspiration for your new home. Start by creating a board specifically dedicated to your home design project. Consider naming it something descriptive, like "My Dream Home" or "Home Design Inspiration." This will serve as a central hub for all your ideas.
Explore and Follow Design Influencers:
To begin gathering inspiration, explore Pinterest's vast collection of home design content. Follow design influencers, architects, interior designers, and home décor brands to discover their boards and ideas. This will expose you to a wide range of styles, color palettes, furniture arrangements, and architectural elements that can spark your creativity.
Pinning and Organizing Ideas:
As you browse through different boards and images, start pinning the ideas that resonate with you. Pinning allows you to save images to your boards for future reference. Be sure to pin a variety of elements such as room layouts, color schemes, furniture styles, lighting options, and even specific design details like flooring or backsplashes. Organize your pins into subcategories within your main board to make them easily accessible.
Refining Your Style:
As you continue to pin and gather inspiration, you may notice recurring themes or a consistent style emerging. Pay attention to the elements that catch your eye repeatedly. This will help you define your design preferences and refine your personal style. Consider the overall aesthetic, whether it's modern, rustic, minimalist, or eclectic. Note the colors, textures, and patterns that appeal to you the most.
Collaboration and Communication:
Pinterest offers a collaborative feature that allows you to invite family members, partners, or designers to contribute to your boards. This enables seamless communication and collaboration throughout the design process. Share ideas, exchange comments, and gather feedback to ensure that everyone's visions align and that you're collectively creating the home of your dreams.
Bridging Pinterest and Reality:
While Pinterest is a fantastic tool for gathering inspiration, it's essential to remember that not everything you find will be feasible or suitable for your specific home. Use your Pinterest boards as a starting point to communicate your preferences to architects, designers, and contractors. Work with professionals to translate your Pinterest-inspired ideas into practical and achievable design elements within your home's constraints.
DIY Projects and Tutorials:
Pinterest is a treasure trove of DIY projects and tutorials. From simple crafts to complex renovations, you can find step-by-step guides and creative ideas to add personal touches to your new home. Explore DIY boards for inspiration on everything from repurposing furniture to creating handmade decorations. Incorporating DIY projects can make your home design even more unique and reflective of your personality.
Conclusion:
Pinterest has revolutionized the way we approach home design, offering a boundless source of inspiration and organization. By creating boards, exploring content, refining your style, and collaborating with others, you can leverage Pinterest to bring your dream home to life. Whether you're embarking on a major renovation or simply redecorating, let Pinterest be your guide as you curate ideas, collect inspiration, and embark on the exciting journey of designing your new home.
One out of eight our homes utilize Geothermal for heating and cooling. Geothermal systems utilize the Earth's natural heat to provide efficient heating, cooling, and hot water for residential properties. In this blog post, we'll break down the basics of geothermal energy in a way that anyone can understand.
What is Geothermal Energy?
Geothermal energy refers to the heat stored within the Earth. By harnessing this heat, geothermal systems can provide heating and cooling for residential homes. Unlike traditional heating and cooling methods that rely on burning fuels or consuming electricity, geothermal systems tap into the Earth's constant temperature to efficiently regulate indoor climate.
How Does Geothermal Energy Work?
Geothermal systems consist of three main components: a heat pump, a ground loop, and a distribution system.
Heat Pump: The heat pump is the heart of a geothermal system. It works by transferring heat between the ground and your home. During winter, the heat pump extracts heat from the ground through the ground loop and distributes it throughout your house. In summer, it removes excess heat from your home and transfers it back into the ground.
Ground Loop: The ground loop is a series of pipes buried underground. It circulates a water-based solution or refrigerant that absorbs or releases heat to and from the ground. The two most common types of ground loops are vertical and horizontal. Vertical loops are used when space is limited, and holes are drilled deep into the ground. Horizontal loops are installed in larger areas and buried in trenches.
Distribution System: The distribution system in a geothermal setup is similar to traditional HVAC systems. It includes ductwork to deliver warm or cool air to different rooms in your home. In some cases, radiant heating systems, such as underfloor heating, can be used to distribute the heat.
Benefits of Geothermal Energy for Homeowners:
Energy Efficiency: Geothermal systems are highly efficient, using the Earth's constant temperature as a renewable energy source. They can provide significant energy savings compared to traditional systems, resulting in lower utility bills.
Environmental Friendliness: Geothermal energy is clean and environmentally friendly. It produces no greenhouse gas emissions on-site and reduces reliance on fossil fuels, helping to combat climate change and preserve the environment.
Consistent Comfort: Geothermal systems provide consistent heating and cooling throughout the year, eliminating temperature fluctuations and creating a comfortable living environment.
Quiet Operation: Geothermal systems operate quietly, without the noise associated with traditional HVAC systems. This ensures a peaceful home environment.
Longevity and Minimal Maintenance: Geothermal systems are built to last and require minimal maintenance. The ground loops can last for decades, and the systems have fewer moving parts, reducing the risk of mechanical failure.
Conclusion:
Geothermal energy offers homeowners an efficient and eco-friendly way to heat, cool, and provide hot water for their residences. By tapping into the Earth's natural heat, geothermal systems provide consistent comfort, reduce energy consumption, and contribute to a greener future. Consider exploring geothermal energy as an investment that benefits both your wallet and the environment. With its simplicity and long-term benefits, geothermal energy is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to embrace sustainable solutions.
When it comes to building a new home, choosing the right materials is crucial for long-lasting durability and exceptional performance. One revolutionary product that has gained significant recognition in the construction industry is the AdvanTech Zip System. This innovative sheathing and weather barrier system offers numerous benefits, from enhanced moisture protection to improved energy efficiency. In this blog post, we'll explore the advantages of the AdvanTech Zip System and why it has become the go-to choice for new home construction.
Unmatched Moisture Protection:
Moisture damage is a significant concern in any construction project. The AdvanTech Zip System is designed to provide superior moisture protection, keeping your new home safe and dry. The engineered wood sheathing acts as a barrier against water infiltration, preventing leaks and potential damage to the structure. The integrated tape system ensures a seamless and watertight seal, minimizing the risk of moisture-related issues such as rot, mold, and mildew.
Exceptional Strength and Durability:
The AdvanTech Zip System is built to withstand the elements and provide long-lasting durability. The engineered wood panels are highly resistant to warping, delamination, and buckling, ensuring structural integrity over time. This strength translates into a solid and reliable foundation for your new home, offering peace of mind and reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements down the line.
Energy Efficiency and Air Tightness:
The AdvanTech Zip System excels in improving energy efficiency and maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. The integrated tape system not only provides moisture protection but also helps create an airtight building envelope. By minimizing air leakage, the system reduces energy loss, prevents drafts, and enhances thermal performance. This translates into lower heating and cooling costs, increased energy savings, and a more sustainable home.
Time and Labor Savings:
One of the notable advantages of the AdvanTech Zip System is its streamlined installation process, leading to significant time and labor savings. The panels are easy to handle and install, allowing for efficient construction timelines. The integrated tape system eliminates the need for separate taping or sealing, reducing labor-intensive tasks and improving overall construction productivity. With the AdvanTech Zip System, builders can achieve faster project completion without compromising quality.
Proven Performance and Warranties:
The AdvanTech Zip System has a strong track record of performance and reliability. It undergoes rigorous testing and has proven its durability and resistance to various weather conditions. Additionally, the system is backed by comprehensive warranties, providing homeowners and builders with confidence in its quality and long-term protection.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right building materials is essential for constructing a new home that stands the test of time. The AdvanTech Zip System offers a comprehensive solution, combining superior moisture protection, strength, energy efficiency, and ease of installation. With its exceptional performance and proven track record, this innovative system has become a top choice for builders and homeowners alike. By incorporating the AdvanTech Zip System into your new home construction, you can ensure a resilient, energy-efficient, and long-lasting living space that exceeds your expectations.
We’ve been in the business for twenty-four years. Our relationship with our clients does not end when the last nail is screwed in. We have been a part of projects that include interior designers and others that don’t. We’ve heard
Second, my education is in Interior Design! While I may sound bias, I assure you, I am not. Before my schooling, I thought some of the myths you might be thinking too, which I will address later. But what I learned through my experience, was that Interior Designers, besides being leaders in creativity, design, and styling; will save you time and money, saving you from costly mistakes.
And if that doesn’t build our credibility, find numerous other articles and blogs on the same topic! But we’re here to find agreement. So here’s what we know.
1. They’re Professionals.
Consider why Interior Design is a field of study. Because no amount of Pinterest can make you a professional chef, event planner, or home builder. That’s not to say you cannot produce something delicious, fun, or beautiful. But the job of an interior designer is to use their field of study and expertise to create something innovative and custom to you.
Interior designers are not just the decorative decision makers, either, but will facilitate and track orders and deliveries, will make decisions to your benefit with their in-depth knowledge of materials, brands, and furniture options within your budget; and often know the leading trends and lifecycles far before Pinterest. Your home won’t just be another Pinterest home, it’ll be the home that influences all the other homes on Pinterest.
2. They will save you from costly mistakes.
Not only will interior designers maximize your living space, giving you the most function and beauty for your buck, but they will save you from costly mistakes. Familiar with building codes and standards, your interior designer will end up saving you from costly, timely mistakes. And often, interior designers save you from buying cheap materials, the wrong materials, or furniture you’ll end up replacing with the quality you should’ve began with. Not only does your home get the quality it deserves, but the value of your home just went up.
3. Their “sixth sense”.
Interior designers are the experts on beauty and function. While they are maximizing your space, they
4. Your design team.
So when do you include your interior designer in the plans? Right away. Your interior designer should not only work with the architect, but with the builder as well. They don’t just decorate your home, they should be a part of the design of your home for the best results inside and out. Experts that can work together for your best outcome are the people you want working for you, so the more experience your designers have with other architects and builders, the better.
5. The myths you must be thinking.
Interior designers only work for the wealthy.
Not true at all! While your impression may be of the Kardashians’ mansion homes and luxurious designers, interior designs are available to all. You just have to know how to find the right one for you. Find a junior interior designer looking for experience or portfolio pieces after their education, internships, etc. Otherwise, if you’re concerned about the money spent, you can either find an interior designer within your budget or better yet: see the investment of it. Interior designers will source quality products, quality furniture, and strategic decorations all within your budget. You may end up saving not only money but time.
Interior designers are glorified personal shoppers.
Rigorous education with degrees, certifications, and plenty of experience to prove otherwise.
They’re a scam to get paid to decorate.
Like I said, interior designers are much more than “decorators”. Actually, delete “interior decorator” from your vocabulary altogether.
Interior designers will form real, authentic friendships with the client to understand your needs and lifestyle for their designs to best fit you in your home, while considering the resale of it.
It’s a fun job, I want to do it myself.
Considering the scale of the project, especially if this is a new-build you’re designing, the interior design is no walk in the park, and is definitely not covered after a wild trip to Target.
With effective communication and an understanding of what you want your role to be, you will be a part of the selections process. No decision will be made without your go-ahead.
Your beautifully designed and built home deserves the same time and attention in the interior.
We’re on your side, because we want you to have the best home building experience you could ask for.
Read Time ~5 minutes
Thought your habit of procrastinating ended in school? We’re here to break the news that you will be tempted to jump back into those habits during the selections process. But we’re here to deliver the good news: we anticipated this and have created some tips and guides that won’t leave you screaming or tearing your hair out. At Mark Scott Homes, we strive not only to build your dream home at the highest quality, but the give you the best home-building experience.
The selections process may sound exciting for some and weary to others. Whichever side you’re on, it may feel redundant and even overwhelming at times. To break through habits of procrastination and avoidance techniques, we have 4 tips to stay on track during the Selections Process.
HERE’S HOW TO STAY ON TOP OF MAKING SELECTIONS:
1. Organize the Details
It’s important to know what selections you need to make. Jot those down in an organized fashion. To help ease the process, we already have a head-start with our universal selections guide, which outlines what selections are needed and when they need to be made. In addition, we’ll provide you with a breakdown listing each specific item and its allotted budget.
A great way to plan ahead is to create inspiration boards for each room. Pinterest is your best bet to find images for this. Isolate what you like about the photos you’ve chosen and try to find examples of such things as tile selections and patterns, hardware finishes, lighting options, all the way down to installation types for your basins and hardware – if you have it in you. The more prepared you are, the less overwhelming you will be when the showroom guide asks you what you would like to see. Because let’s face it, the options are seemingly endless but your time and money are not (& that’s okay!)
Examples of an Inspiration Boards from Pinterest photos. Click here for our blog on how to design your home using Pinterest.
If you go into any of these stores or showrooms thinking you only need to pick out hardware; you may want to pack a lunch. Like you did in school, your best work always had a rough draft. The same applies here. Make your inspiration board your rough draft.
2. Block Out Time
We know you’re busy. We also know you probably wouldn’t choose to knock out the decisions for your interior doors and plumbing fixtures on your day off. However, the more efficient and timely you are, the more efficient and timely we are. Our goal is to get you inside your home as soon as well can, but a lot of that depends on the efficiency of your decisions.
Allow yourself time to think over your choices before making the final decision. Our recommendation is to take those samples back home with you (where possible) and sleep on them for 24-48 hours before firming up your decision. We understand that not everyone is a calm and quick decision-maker, and we know the choices are seemingly unlimited. Give yourself grace, but also a deadline!
You may think you’ll be able to knock out all your selections in one day, but we advise you to block out 2 hours at a time to combat mental fog and exhaustion.
3. Ask For Help!
It’s okay you don’t know every type of architectural or cabinet door style. That’s what we are here for. We’re here to help and so are the showroom associates. We will do our best to educate you before we set you loose into the wild.
Keep in mind, any question you have has already been asked. We are committed to being your partner and advocate throughout this process.
4. Hire Someone To Do It For You!
You will still need to be a part of this process, but the work of sourcing and gathering are off your hands! We are happy to work with your interior designer if you decide to go this route.
Interior Designers are not just decorators. Qualified interior designers work with the contractors to deliver a home that fits both your functional needs and your aesthetic dreams.
We are continually working on bettering our systems in place and coming up with ways to better educate you during this process. Mark Scott Homes is on your team and we are thrilled to have you on ours!
Read time ~5 minutes
Building a custom home has always been a dream of yours. Maybe you’ve already started your research and sketched out some plans, maybe it’s still a “one day” dream or maybe you’ve already bought the champagne for your first dinner party.
Wherever you’re at in the process, you deserve the best experience.
But before you pop the bubbly, you need to find a custom home builder to make your dream a reality. To choose the right builder for you, you need to know what to look for. But where do you start?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Before you begin your search, know what you need.
Just like you wouldn’t buy a house sight unseen, you wouldn’t look for a custom home builder without first knowing what you need.
Once you know what your budget is, have a general sense of of the home you want, your non-negotiables, what’s important to you and what you want your experience to look like, it will be easier to find a custom home builder who fits your needs expectations, and understands your vision.
There are a lot of great qualities to look for in your builder. We came up with 5 to get you started with your search:
1. First, they listen.
Starting the process of building your custom home can be overwhelming, which is why it’s necessary to have a builder who listens to what you need and what you’re looking for before jumping in with the solution.
Great builders will evaluate your needs, your budget, and your values and align their solution with your best interest in mind.
After they listen long and hard, they might lay out what the most expensive elements of the design would be, what would be tricky to do and give you a rough figure of what the build would cost.
2. They pay close attention to detail.
There are a million details that go into building a custom home.
You need a builder with a well-established process who will walk you through these details and give you the confidence that your home will be built with taste and quality. Luxurious details that are carried out with intention will bring out your home’s unique charm and elegance.
You want a builder who will handle every detail of your home like it’s their home.
3. They are trustworthy.
The best way to find out if your custom builder is trustworthy is to talk to them and trust your instincts.
Here are some questions you could ask them:
How many years have you been in business and how many homes have you built?
How closely do you work with my architect and interior designer?
Can you go into depth with how you approach the estimating process?
Do you only build from existing floor plans or can I bring my own plans?
What kind of new home warranty do you offer?
Who will be overseeing the construction of my home? How can I contact them?
How will you approach questions and concerns that come up throughout the process?
Can I check out a current project you’re working on?
Once you trust and respect your builder to do the job well, you can be sure that they’ll get the job done exactly how you want it.
4. They have a strong reputation.
To get a pulse on your builder’s reputation, start with online reviews. Ask them to introduce you to past clients. You can even request to visit a finished home, ideally one that’s been finished for 1+ years.
When you visit a finished home, pay close attention to the workmanship and the materials they used. Are the design features attractive? Did they use quality materials?
You want a builder with a strong reputation of being hands-on, intelligent and thoughtful. Good builders will be incredibly organized and won’t cut corners. In your search for a reputable builder, don’t just look for great builders, but quality humans.
5. They keep you involved in the building process.
A good builder will keep the communication transparent throughout the entire process. Once you contact them initially, you’ll be able to get an immediate feel for their communication style.
Good builders set up meetings regularly to set clear expectations and make sure you both stay on the same page. You’ll want to know if the project gets delayed and why. A good builder will discuss challenges with the builder, offer modifications and tell you the plan moving forward.
And when it’s done? A good builder makes sure you’re satisfied. They won’t throw you the keys and run, but they’ll finish the job with class, do a final walk-through and make sure you’re 100% satisfied with your home.
Chances are if your builder listens well, pays close attention to detail, is trustworthy and has a strong reputation, they’ll keep you involved in the building process because it’s evident that they care about your needs.
In your search, don’t just look for the best price. Look for compatibility and these 5 qualities in your candidates. And remember, building your dream home should be an incredible and rewarding experience. At Mark Scott Homes, we don’t want you to settle for anything less!
Condensation is one of the biggest problems in a modern, well insulated home. Additionally, it is the one which is most misunderstood. Left untreated, condensation can lead to mold growth which can be potentially harmful and lead to serious health issues and breathing difficulties which is why it is important to reduce humidity levels in a home.
