Holiday Entertaining Tips for the Host

 

The holidays are approaching quickly, and you are the host. So how do you create the ideal home entertainment setup from the start? Here are a few Holiday Entertaining Tips and steps you can take to ensure you stay organized, happy and sane.

1. Create a Welcoming Entryway

When you’re entertaining guests at home, your entryway is often your guests’ first impression. Naturally, you want that first impression to be a good one, so making your space feel as inviting as possible is a good start. To make your guest feel more comfortable, consider adding these items to the entryway of your home:

  • Ample hooks for coats and purses
  • Plants or poinsettia to create a festive mood.
  • Some type of seating for guests to remove shoes if requested — a bench works well.
  • A rug that with a holiday flare

2.Get Creative with Tables and Seating

If seating and surfaces are in short supply, you’ll need to get creative. Try some throw pillows to use as boho-inspired seats on the floor. Alternatively, you can buy in a few ottomans that can double as tables or seating as needed. Bar carts are a great investment as you can use them to serve a small or larger group. This also work to provide a portable table for serving drinks and food wherever you are in the house.

3. Set the Mood with the Right Lighting

If your home is equipped with nothing but harsh overhead fluorescents, it might be time for an upgrade, unless you are going for the cafeteria style dining, which changes are you are not. Add an interesting lamp and dress up tables and entryways with string lights. Always opt for warm-colored bulbs to create a cozy and relaxing environment. If you’re going for a dimly lit vibe, try using candles instead of light bulbs wherever it’s safe to do so.

4.Utilize Your Kitchen Island

When it come to holiday entertaining guests at home, your kitchen island will serve you well, literally. If you’re hosting a dinner party or serving any type of food, the island will act both as your prep station and your buffet table. If your kitchen is large enough, you might want to create an area for your guests to sit around the island as well.

5.Prepare a Guest Bed

Depending how the party goes, you may have an unexpected overnight guest. Be sure to have clean bedding on hand and invest in a decent guest bed setup. If you don’t have a spare room right now, look for a pull-out sofa or even a high-quality air mattress. Make a note to blow it up ahead of time.

6.Party Preparation

Once you’ve got your home set up for entertaining guests, the planning and prep work can truly begin. Here are some more tips to keep in mind so your next holiday party goes off without a hitch:

  • Create a signature cocktail with minimal ingredients and prepare it ahead of time.
  • Have a designated bar area where guests can help themselves.
  • Don’t aim to cook a full dinner — the last thing you want is to be stuck in the kitchen all night trying to time a perfect meal.  Most people will be happy with hearty snacks and charcuterie, beside they’ll want you to join the party.
  • Don’t forget about scents and sounds. Light a few candles and play some low-volume music or upbeat music to set the vibe.

Use all the functions of your home to be sure you pull out all the tricks for holiday entertaining—as it is essential for those who love to host.

Now you can relax knowing you are ready and prepared for the upcoming holiday family get together and/or holiday party.

Happy Holidays to You and Yours!

Your Friends at Tice-Hause Design/Build

 

 

Multigenerational homes are becoming more common in the design/build industry.  There are many benefits to having multi-generational families living under one roof. What is appealing is more than one family and/or relatives or extended family can reside in a functional home together under one roof. The architectural design and open floor plan are specially designed to complement multigenerational living. A multi-generational home design often provides a more versatile space where grandparents can spend time with grandchildren in the family room as parents prepare dinner close by in the kitchen.

The common theme is a communal public space such as the great room to bring loved ones together, whereas private suites offer secluded privacy. As elderly loved ones advance in age connecting doors from the suites to the main home provide safety. Many families also like the convenience the connected space offer for daily engagement between family members. Multigenerational home floor plans typically include features like multiple living areas, more than one kitchen, and separate entrances to maximize privacy.

Large common areas like great rooms, open kitchens, and extended outdoor living spaces are also common in multi-generational homes.

A Universal design feature also provides accessibility for senior-aged family members.

Building a new-construction home offers more customizability (and is often more affordable) than renovating an existing home.

 

Multiple Generational Home have more than one living areas

While common spaces are important for togetherness in multi-generational homes, multiple living areas are key to personal space and privacy. In most multi-generational home floor plans, you’ll find more than one living area that can be enjoyed for different purposes.  For example, a home may have a great room where the kids keep their toys and watch TV as well as a den where grandparents have their own space to relax.

Multiple Kitchens

Much like multiple living areas, having multiple kitchens provides extra space and privacy for family units within the same multi-generational home. A common design found in multi-generational homes is a large “main” kitchen and a smaller kitchen or kitchenette located in designated in-law suites.

Long newly remodeled corridor

Multigenerational Homes have Separate Entrances

Multigenerational homes

Beautiful newly designed staircase with floor to ceiling windows leading to the upper level suite.

Adding separate entrances to a multi-generational home gives it the feel of individual living units even when they are part of one larger home. For example, in-laws may not want to walk through the main house to get to their in-law suite in the basement. Adding an extra entrance that provides direct access to the basement suite makes it feel more private and adds convenience.

Some Multigenerational Homes have Separate buildings on the Same Lot

Another common approach to multi-generational homes is separate buildings on the same property. Some common options include private apartments over detached garages or small separate houses built behind the main home.

If you are interested in a learning more about multigenerational homes, and it is something that fits your future plans, give us a call at Tice-Hause Design/Build. We are happy to set up a complimentary consultation. 651-439-0189.

 

Benefits of Working With a Design/Build Contractor vs a typical general contractor.

A design/build contractor is responsible for all facets of the design and construction process. For several reasons, many contractors do not design new custom homes, home additions, or remodeling projects for their clients. Many lack experience or training with drafting, design problem-solving, new product specification or building code compliance. Establishing a good plan with proper engineering requires time, experienced staff and accountability. Thee are elements a standard contractor may will, in many cases, struggle to provide.

Legal Advantages of Working With a Design/Build Contractor vs a typical general contractor.

Design/build contractors have expertise in all the areas mentioned above and are legally responsible for any issues. Many other contractors use lumberyard designers who have no insurance, design accountability, allegiance or legal accountability to you, the owner. They are not always accessible, either, as they are understandably busy selling lumber and servicing their own customers.

Independent architects and drafting technicians can provide better service but have similar time constraints. This can slow the production phase when challenges arise, and you will be charged for additional time. Both lumberyard designers and architects and draftsmen will place disclaimers on plans to avoid any liability for ‘unforeseeable problems.’ These are also disclaimed in the contractor’s contract, leaving you responsible for issues. A design/build contractor cannot legally disclaim errors they make on their plans.

Choosing a reputable, full-service design/build company over a typical contractor, should give you peace of mind knowing they are accountable for any potential plan & specification issues.

Cost Savings with a Design/Build Contractor vs a typical general contractor.

Hiring an independent architect or draftsman can be expensive. Most work on a percentage of the project fee.  The result can easily exceed thousands of dollars. Furthermore, on new custom homes, home remodeling or extensive remodeling.  Extra meetings, site visits and local building code research are typically charged hourly in excess of the base fee.

Furthermore, an independent designer/architect may specify items or processes with which a custom home builder is unfamiliar for which they have no existing material supplier. Seeing this, when the builder bids the project/plans, they will tack on a ‘safety margin’ to cover ‘unforeseeable items’ they don’t have experience with. The resulting extra costs to the owner can quickly add up and blow the budget on the project.

By partnering with a design/build contractor, you can save money and allocate those funds toward more important things. You want a design program to be transparent, convenient and easily understandable. You might also want one that maintains reasonable fees because design work is part of an effort to earn your trust and patronage. The design process is mutually beneficial as it helps the client and the design/build team to get to know one another and build trust. The idea is when it comes time to sign a contract, having a comfortable working relationship with your contractor will make your decision easier. In many cases, some or all design fees are credited to your contract price, meaning they are ultimately free of charge if you contract with that company. The costs are normally in place to cover their time if you decide to select a different company.

Convenience & Continuity with Design/Build

As you go through the design process, you and your design/build company, will develop an intimate understanding of the project, which is then seamlessly carried forth into production. The designer will normally be by your side throughout the project, at your convenience, at no additional cost.

When questions arise on-site, the production manager, lead carpenters, and trade partners will inquire directly with the designer and quickly get those answers to avoid delays.

A Design/Build company will help you develop your ideas into a set of preliminary construction drawings quickly and efficiently so the pricing process can begin. They take the take time to get to know you and your vision, carefully assess the lot or existing home and inquire about your project priorities, timeline, and budget before they begin. This initial information gathering helps to create a design that fulfills your expectations without exceeding your budget.

 

Are you like many and dislike the look and feel of clutter?  If you like simple, clean lines and a calm uncluttered design, then a Scandinavian Style home might be right for you. A Scandinavian home is characterized by a minimal, clean approach that seeks to combine functionality with beauty. Its focus is on simple lines and light spaces, devoid of clutter.

Scandinavian-style design is more than just buzzwords like “minimalism” and “clean lines. It is about modernism, functionality and sustainability. This Scandinavian designed home, as featured, is on the market and open for touring, June 7, 3PM-6PM. It is located at 1701 Pine St W. in Stillwater MN. The modern design is beckoning its next homeowner to leave the clutter behind and settle into a new way of living.

The highlighted Scandinavian minimalistic home was created in partnership with a talented architect and Tice-Hause Design/Build. They specialize in custom homes that depict the style and aesthetic of each homeowner.  That is to say, be it traditional or contemporary, such as the Scandinavian-style design, Tice-Hause Design/Build creates custom homes that reflect how the homeowner would like to live.

Tice-Hause Design Build’s goal is to create interior/exterior designs that are architecturally pleasing to the eye and have a positive impact on surrounding buildings and neighborhoods. This minimalist custom home does just that and is wonderfully different from much of Stillwater’s traditional home designs.

Unique Features: Scandinavian Style Furnishing and an Outdoor Pickle Ball court.

Scandinavian designed home-Open floor concept

A home is not  much of a home without the complimenting furnishings. This Scandinavian-style home includes all the smart furnishings. In addition, each is hand-selected and drawn to scale during the design and engineering process. The architecture consists of ultra-clean lines, natural woods, large windows and a direct continuation of nature outside. Therefore this contemporary Scandinavian Design delivers calmness and minimal mental clutter for a more simplistic way of life.

For the outdoor enthusiast, the property features a pickle ball court surrounded by mature trees on a wooded, half-acre lot. Spacious and open, the home has three-bedrooms and three-bathrooms. It also includes heated flooring and state-of-the-art appliances, including a touch-screen coffee maker.

Another unique feature is the architecturally designed garage, which is kept behind a fully-insulated glass panel door and includes an electric vehicle charging station. Also included are hot and cold water for car washing and in-floor heating to maintain warmth year round.  

In conclusion, the inspiration for this design/build comes from Scandinavian-style design.  In a world of sensory overload, this custom home delivers calmness and minimal mental clutter.

Now you can tour this modern minimalist home, near Stillwater’s historic downtown. Stop by and get inspired!

The Open House is June 7th from 3PM to 6Pm at 1701 Pine Street W.  in Stillwater. Light refreshments will be served.

To see more of our work go to:https://thdbuild.com/

 

 

How to Create a Comfortable Living Space You Can Use Once You Retire

As we journey through life, we realize the significance of having a living space that caters to our changing needs. As the golden years’ approach, retirement should be filled with moments of blissful relaxation in a cozy abode that fosters happiness and serenity. With this in mind, let me share some valuable tips on creating a comfortable living space that will serve as your peaceful haven in retirement.

Consider Your Future Needs

Before planning your living area, invest a while in contemplating your future requirements. Do you intend to reside in the same house? Will you need help with movement or access? Factor in your design features, such as wider entrances, guard bars, and level-entrance showers, to ensure your living space is secure and useful for many years ahead.

Optimize for Comfort

Retiring should be a peaceful moment, and making the living place comfortable and pleasant is paramount. To accomplish this, including relaxing furniture, additional features like heated floors, a fireplace, or a hot tub could add luxury and make suitable light and warm colors to give a snug feeling in your newly-renovated home.

Personalize Your Space

When designing your future retirement space, it is important to consider your unique personal tastes and interests. Incorporating elements that make you smile, such as photographs, art pieces, or beloved keepsakes, is essential. Additionally, contemplate and plan how you envision your retirement experience and uniform your living space to that. For example, if you are an avid reader, why not create a comfortable reading corner with a lovely armchair and proper illumination?

Invest in Quality

When creating your retirement living space, it is necessary to make wise decisions regarding materials and construction. With the help of a reliable design/build firm such as Tice-Hause Design/Build, one can trust that the accommodations will be built firmly and per personal wishes. By investing in quality construction materials and techniques, you will eventually be able to save time, money, and effort on renovations or repair work.

Finally, developing an inviting living environment for your golden years can be considered a sound investment in your joy and health. By predicting your future requirements, enhancing your comfort levels, customizing the layout to reflect you best, plus making sure to purchase products of high quality, you can craft a home that will make you pleased and serene for many years ahead.

If you are looking to work with a custom design/build company for your dream retirement home, give Tice-Hause Design/Build a call today.  (651) 439-3837. We can create beautifully functional spaces that you will love to live in.

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You already have a picture in mind of what you want your dream home to look like, even before resources become available. Keep in mind the many choices you will have to make that will ensure you live comfortably in your new home and that is truly is your dream home. To get started your must list primary areas that require focus to ensure your dream home becomes a reality. Do your best not to skimp on the things that are most important to you.

Five areas to focus on before building your dream home:

Choose an Architectural Style for your Dream Home

You may already have an architectural style in mind but we suggest you do your research. Collect images of home styles you like and make a list of what you like about them. Some popular styles are Farmhouse, Colonial Revival, Cape Cod, Queen Anne, Modern Craftsman, Rancher, and Contemporary. You can juxtapose two or more styles. This is typically referred to as a contemporary style. A experienced and skilled design/build expert can help you draw the plans that reflect what you want your dream home to look like both internally and externally.

The Location of your Dream Home

As much as the interior layout is essential, don’t forget to consider the environment beyond the house. Ask yourself whether your chosen location is a suitable space for your family. Are you able to access opportunities and grow within the immediate community? Does the location help fulfill your needs and goals? For example, the city is a better choice if you want to grow your career and have access to modern conveniences. Are you close to the places and people that are important to you and your lifestyle? If you have kids, are their good schools nearby? Parks? What other amenities are important to you?

There are also practical things to keep in mind such as sewage gas and electrical hookups. Keep in mind that location refers to everything from lot size, zoning laws to sun exposure.

Set a Realistic Budget 

For you to have access to all the materials you need, you will need to set a realistic budget. It is important for you to spent what you have on what you can afford. Therefore, set a realistic budget with accompanying priorities. Figure out things that aren’t urgent and those you can compromise. If you absolutely have to have granite countertops and natural hardwood floors then be realistic when setting your budget. There are alternatives that cost less but most clients have a list of the “must haves” to fulfill the criteria of their dream home. A professional custom home builder will have many products to chose from and will help you allocate your funds to meet your aesthetic needs and desires while staying within your budget.

 Dream Home Layout and Spacing

Once you have the location of your dream home established you will want think about the physical layout. The main concern is how you’ll use your space. Whether you want an open environment or a more private one, it’s best to draw the layout at the start, which helps determine room size, design features and traffic flow.  Also, keep in mind factors such as lot size, slope, could potentially limit how much of your vision you can actualize. It is not uncommon to revisit your layout several times. It is important to be open minded when tweaking your plans. You may need to minimize your home theater space in order to have the recreation room you want. While space is important factor, design will make the difference in creating your dream home.

Expert Dream Home Builder

The expert is the design/build professional who’ll bring your idea to life. When you first meet with the builder, give clear direction on what you envision to ensure you both understand each other. You will want to look for a design/build company that is established and has a proven track record. You do not need to know a lot about architecture and design but the professional custom home builder sure does. Set up a consultation with two or three custom home builders. Make a list of pertinent questions. Ask to see their pictures of their work, credentials and referral from their happy clients. Also it is important to go with your gut. Ask yourself do I trust this company and am I comfortable hiring them to build my dream home? You want to hire someone who understands your vision and has the capability and expertise to bring it to life.

Conclusion

There is no reason for your dream home to remain a dream. Plan right, be open minded and you’ll be living the dream! At Tice-Hause Design/Build, we thrive in our drive for better designs, processes, and builds. Moreover, we uphold integrity, competency, and standards with perfected communication systems. Our main goal is to meet and exceed your expectations. Contact us today for more information on how to build your dream home. To take a peek at some of our work please click here: https://thdbuild.com/gallery/. Give us a call to discuss your dream home idea. 651-433-7397.