Designing for the Future: A Home That Evolves With You

A home should feel just as comfortable years from now as it does the day you move in. Life changes, families grow, and needs shift. Your home should be able to evolve right along with you. Thoughtful design can make that possible, blending beauty and practicality that stands the test of time.

1. Preparing for Aging in Place

Aging in place is about making a home comfortable and easy to live in at every stage of life. Thoughtful design can make accessibility and your everyday routine feel effortless and natural, rather than clinical or cold.

In addition to grab bars and wider doorways, curbless showers, thoughtful lighting, and lever handles are just a few ways to design with future needs in mind. Planning for these details early can save time and stress later and makes the space feel welcoming for everyone who lives there or visits.

2. Spaces That Grow With Your Family

As life moves forward, the way you use your home changes. A playroom might eventually become a media room, or a guest bedroom might turn into a home office. Planning for the future allows the home to adapt as needs evolve. Thoughtful built-ins, adaptable layouts, and multi-use spaces help your home serve your family through every phase- from toddlers to teenagers and beyond.

3. Materials That Stand the Test of Time

The materials chosen today shape how a home will look and function for years to come. Solid wood cabinetry, quartz countertops, and natural stone tile are all durable choices that age beautifully. Reclaimed or recycled materials can add character while making the home more sustainable. For plumbing and hardware, using fixtures with real brass components inside rather than plastic ensures longevity. While these materials may cost more initially, investing in quality can save money over time by reducing the need for repairs or replacements.

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At ELM Construction, we design spaces that grow with you. They adapt, age gracefully, and reflect the people who live in them. Each home is thoughtfully designed to meet your needs now and for years to come.

Project Spotlight: A Timeless Primary Bath Remodel in Homewood

Primary Bathroom Remodel in Homewood by ELM Construction

This family came to us wanting to modernize and improve the functionality of their primary bathroom. The existing space was cramped and dark, and they envisioned a fresh and relaxing room to start and end their day.

Through our design-build process, we worked closely with the clients to define their goals, creating three layout and rendering options before landing on the one that perfectly balanced their wish list and the space’s potential. Having design and construction all under one roof allows us to plan and estimate the project in depth, limiting timely and costly surprises.

The new plan included relocating the toilet to create an enclosed water closet, expanding the shower, and extending the vanity to span the full width of the wall. Previously, the vanity sinks were centered beneath the windows, which meant the clients couldn’t have proper mirrors for getting ready each morning. By shifting the sinks between the windows, we were able to install true mirrors while preserving the beautiful natural light.

For finishes, we contrasted Sherwin-Williams “Agreeable Gray” on the vanity, trim, and doors with warm brass fixtures, hardware, and Sereno Gold quartz veining. These clients also wanted to keep potential aging-in-place needs in mind, so we incorporated subtle accessibility features like grab bars in the shower and water closet, along with a built-in shower bench.

The end result is a serene retreat reflective of our clients style and needs for years to come and a testament to ELM’s proven design-build process.

Ready to update your primary bathroom? Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

Renovate or Move? Here’s How to Decide

At some point, nearly every homeowner faces the same big question: stay and renovate, or sell and move? Whether it’s a cramped kitchen, a master bath that no longer fits your lifestyle, or the need for more functional space, the decision can feel overwhelming. At ELM Construction, we can help families think through both the tangible numbers and the less tangible “quality of life” factors that matter just as much.

Understanding Your Home’s Financial Picture

Here’s a simplified example to illustrate the financial implications. Suppose your home is worth $500,000 with a $300,000 mortgage, leaving you with $200,000 in equity. Let’s break down the costs of renovating versus moving to help you decide.

Current Home Snapshot
Market value	$500,000
Mortgage	$300,000
Equity	$200,000

Option 1: Stay and Renovate

Renovating allows you to transform your current home into a space that meets your needs without the hassle of moving. But what are the costs and benefits?

Renovation Costs and Returns
If you invest $250,000 into a kitchen remodel, bath expansion, and closet upgrade, your home’s value might rise about $190,000. That’s a 76% return, close to the national average, though some projects may yield even higher returns.

Renovate Stay & Transform
Renovation Cost (Financed)	$250,000
Post-Reno Home Value	$690,000
New Mortgage	$550,000
Equity	$140,000
Equity Impact	-$60,000

Benefits of Renovating
Renovating lets you customize your home to your exact preferences. Plus, if your current mortgage has a low rate (say, around 3% from a few years ago), borrowing for renovations at today’s higher rates could still result in lower monthly payments than a new mortgage at 7%. This preserves your financing advantage while improving your living space.

Risks to Consider
Renovations can come with unexpected costs, delays, or contractor issues. However, with ELM Construction’s design/build services, we minimize these risks by tailoring your project to your vision and managing every detail.

Option 2: Sell and Relocate

Moving to a new home might seem like a fresh start, but it comes with its own costs and uncertainties. Let’s look at the numbers and risks involved.

Relocate — List & Leap
Realtor Commission	$25,000
Pre-Sale Prep	$5,000
Movers, etc.	$5,000
Closing Expenses	$10,000
Total Transaction Cost	$45,000
New Home Price	$690,000
New Mortgage	$535,000
Equity	$155,000
Equity Impact	-$45,000

Advantages of Moving
Relocating can offer a fresh start in a home that better suits your needs, potentially in a new neighborhood with desirable amenities. In some cases, moving may appear more economical than renovating, as shown in the equity impact above.

Risks of Relocating
Moving introduces uncertainties that can’t always be predicted:

• New Neighborhood, New Neighbors: Will you feel at home in an unfamiliar area?

• Unknown House, Unknown Problems: Even “move-in ready” homes may have hidden issues.

• Competitive Market Risks: You might overpay in a hot market.

• Unexpected Renovation Costs: Many new homes still require upgrades, which aren’t factored into the costs above.

Weighing the Intangibles

Beyond the numbers, quality-of-life factors play a huge role. Do you love your current neighborhood, schools, or community? Renovating lets you stay in a familiar environment while upgrading your home. Moving, however, might mean adjusting to new routines, neighbors, or commute times. At ELM Construction, we help you evaluate these intangibles to ensure your decision aligns with your lifestyle.

Why Renovating Might Be Smarter

Renovating with ELM Construction offers a tailored solution to transform your home without losing the benefits of your current mortgage or location. Our design/build services ensure your kitchen, bathroom, or full-home remodel reflects your vision, with transparent costs and timelines. If you’re considering a full build instead, we can manage that process from start to finish, helping you make informed decisions.

Next Step: Let’s Explore Your Options

Not sure whether renovating or moving is right for you? At ELM Construction, we’ll help you run the numbers, weigh the intangibles, and design a plan that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Choose to Renovate
We specialize in transforming kitchens, bathrooms, additions, and full home remodels — tailoring your home to your vision.

Want to Build?
We have experience managing full builds from start to finish. We’ll help you understand costs and timelines so you can make informed decisions.

Ready to Talk?
Not sure which option fits your goals and budget? Let’s talk — our expert team will guide you through your choices.

The Art of a Well-Designed Kitchen

They say the kitchen is the heart of the home, which is why we believe in designing kitchens that are beautiful and work hard for you. As a design-build company, we don’t just pick pretty finishes. We tailor each design to your specific needs- cabinet by cabinet.

At our first design meeting, our in-house designers take the time to understand exactly how you use your kitchen and how you want it to work for you. We’ll walk through what you love (and don’t love) about your current space, then start developing a floor plan and renderings tailored to your lifestyle. As we shape the design, we always incorporate a few essential cabinet accessories, along with any custom features to meet your specific needs.

1. Spice Rack Pull Out

A spice rack pull out keeps every jar visible and within reach, so you never have to dig through a crowded upper cabinet again. With everything neatly organized, meal prep becomes quicker and less frustrating.

2. Slotted Baking Sheet Pull Out

Instead of stacking baking sheets, cutting boards, and trays on top of each other, a slotted pull out stores them upright and separated. That means no more clanging pans or pulling everything out just to get the one you need.

3. KitchenAid Mixer Lift

A mixer lift is the perfect way to keep your stand mixer out of sight but always ready to work. When it’s baking time, it effortlessly lifts into position—saving both counter space and your back.

4. Roll Out Shelves

Roll-out shelves make it easy to see and grab exactly what you need, so nothing gets lost in the depths of your pantry. They’re also a smart solution for small appliance garages and coffee bars, keeping everything organized but accessible.

5. Built-in Paper Towel Holder

A built-in paper towel holder keeps your paper towels close at hand without taking up valuable counter space. It’s a simple upgrade that instantly makes your kitchen feel more intentional and tidy.

These are just a few of the endless options when it comes to customizing your kitchen. Our team has helped countless Birmingham-area homeowners create kitchens that are as hardworking as they are beautiful. Let’s work together to design one that makes your life easier and looks good doing it!

5 Simple Design Elements That Instantly Elevate Any Space

Designing a beautiful space doesn’t always require a major investment in luxury items. Sometimes subtle details can make all the difference. These five elements are some of the ELM Designers’ favorite ways to elevate a design. 

1. Decorative Backsplash Cutout

A backsplash does more than protect your walls—it’s a prime opportunity to infuse character into your kitchen or bathroom. A decorative cutout behind the range or sink adds a tailored moment of detail that sets the tone for the entire space. 

2. Wall Lighting

Swapping overhead lights for thoughtfully placed wall sconces or picture lights can completely change the mood of a space. Wall lighting not only creates soft, ambient glow, but also acts as a design feature in its own right. From flanking a vanity mirror to accenting open shelving, layered lighting brings warmth, depth, and function into every corner.

3. Decorative Toe Kick

This often-overlooked feature adds charm and furniture-like detail to cabinetry. A toe kick valance—especially in a kitchen or primary bath—softens the base of built-ins and gives the whole room a more custom, elevated feel. It’s a simple add-on that brings just the right amount of sophistication

4. Paneled Appliances

For a kitchen that feels cohesive and clean, paneled appliances are a go-to. Covering your refrigerator or dishwasher with cabinet panels allows the entire space to flow seamlessly, without the visual interruption of stainless steel. It’s a small detail, but it instantly signals a higher level of design intention—and keeps the cabinetry as the star of the show.

5. Wallpaper

Wallpaper is the perfect way to instantly add personality to a space! Fun, bright patterns create a statement, while subtle, muted patterns create texture and depth. Even when used in small areas like a powder bath or behind shelving, it creates a thoughtful focal point that personalizes your home.

The Difference Is In the Details

By incorporating custom touches like a backsplash cutout or toe kick valance, and focusing on lighting, paneling, and pattern, your space can feel timeless, layered, and truly elevated. It's the thoughtful details that turn a house into a home.

Outdoor Living: Creating the Ultimate Outdoor Oasis

Outdoor Living spaces are often an extension of the home and central place for gathering with friends and family. Here, we’re breaking down the most important things to consider when planning for your outdoor oasis.

How will you use the space?

The first step to creating your dream outdoor area is thinking about how you want to use it. Is it a place to gather around the TV for a big game? Is it a quiet space to drink coffee and read in the morning? Or will it be a chef’s dream kitchen for grilling out and hosting? Once you define your goals you can start designing with purpose. This will help guide space planning, electrical needs, and finish selections.

Keeping things comfortable

One of the most important aspects of a well-designed outdoor living space—especially in the South—is comfort. While the beauty of the space matters, it won’t get much use if it isn’t enjoyable year-round. Ceiling fans are a must-have- not only for cooling off the space- but also for keeping bugs at bay. On the flip side, heaters are perfect for chilly football season weather and holiday gatherings. Screens also provide another layer of comfort and a barrier against insects. With a screened in porch, these doors can be fully opened on spring or fall day, allowing fresh air inside. Accordion doors blur the lines between indoor and outdoor, creating more square footage for hosting.

Design Elements

Once your vision and the practical features—like layout, structure, and climate considerations—are in place, the fun really begins. This is where your outdoor living space takes on personality and style through thoughtful design selections and finishing touches. Natural stone, brick, or pavers can bring warmth and texture to patios, pathways, and fireplaces. These elements not only add beauty but also withstand the elements for years to come. When it comes to wood accents, think about the visual impact of stained vs painted. One creates an earthy, natural feel, while painted creates a more tailored look. Lighting also plays a key role in shaping the atmosphere of your outdoor space once the sun goes down. Lanterns, sconces, and string lights add a warm, ambient glow that sets the tone for evening relaxation or entertaining.

With a little planning and the right mix of comfort and style, you can create a space that’s both beautiful and easy to enjoy all year long. Ready to bring your backyard vision to life? Our team can help you design a space that checks every box. Let’s get started!

Design Tips for a Timeless Home Interior

Trends come and go, but great design stands the test of time. A timeless home isn’t about following every new style—it’s about choosing elements that feel classic, enduring, and personal. Whether you’re building from the ground up or updating a few key spaces, these design tips will help you create interiors that age gracefully and feel just as beautiful years from now as they do today.

Mix Textures for Depth and Contrast

One of the easiest ways to bring depth and personality into a space is by mixing textures. Instead of using painted cabinets throughout an entire kitchen, consider adding interest with decorative glass doors, a stained island, or reeded drawer fronts. These small changes create a space that feels layered, intentional, and thoughtfully designed.

Natural Elements Transcend Trends

There’s something timeless about natural materials—they bring authenticity, warmth, and character to a home. Think stone tile, natural-finish white oak, marble fireplaces, and polished nickel or aged brass finishes. These materials have been used for centuries and create charm that never goes out of style.

Layered Lighting

Lighting has the power to completely transform a room. Of course, nothing beats natural light, so we always aim to maximize windows whenever possible. But layering in overhead recessed lights, sconces, pendants, and lamps allows for flexibility depending on the task, time of day, or mood. One often-overlooked detail? The color of your bulbs. We always recommend "Soft White"—it strikes the perfect balance between cool and warm tones.

Invest in Quality

When it comes to fixtures and finishes, quality really does matter. While it might be tempting to go with the budget-friendly option, the difference often lies beneath the surface. For example, a faucet from a big-box store may look similar to one from a plumbing supplier, but it’s often made with plastic internal parts instead of brass or stainless steel. Higher-quality materials mean better performance, longer lifespan, and less waste over time.

Blend Old and New

Homes tell stories, and the best way it does that is by combining new finds with older, personal pieces. Whether it’s adding new built-ins around a family heirloom piece, repurposing a tree that had to be cut down in order to build the home, or installing handmade, vintage tile at a bar, these special elements help the space feel collected and anything but ordinary. 

From Concept to Completion: The Design-Build Advantage

Whether you're planning a full-home renovation, building your dream house from the ground up, or refreshing a dated kitchen, one of the first decisions you'll face is how to approach the process. Traditionally, construction projects have involved hiring an architect or designer first, followed by a contractor. But there's a better way: the design-build method.

At its core, design-build brings the entire project—design, estimating, and construction—under one roof. This streamlined approach not only reduces stress but also leads to more efficient timelines, clearer communication, and a final product that feels cohesive and intentional from every angle.

What Is Design-Build?

The design-build model is a collaborative approach where one team handles both the creative and construction sides of a project. Rather than juggling multiple companies, clients work with a single, unified team that includes designers, estimators, and project managers all working together from day one.

This integration allows for seamless communication and thoughtful decision-making throughout the project. Every step—conceptual design, budgeting, scheduling, material selection, and construction—is managed by the same group of professionals, all aligned around the same vision and with the same goals.

Simplifying the Process

One of the biggest challenges in traditional construction is coordination between multiple parties. Miscommunications, delays, and unexpected costs can quickly derail even the best-laid plans. With design-build, that risk is significantly reduced.

Because everyone is on the same team, the process becomes smoother and more predictable:

• One point of contact: Clients don’t have to act as the “middle-man” for designers and builders.

• Clear timelines and budgets: Design decisions are made with construction realities in mind, keeping things on track and on budget from the start.

• Fewer surprises: Collaboration from the onset means fewer change orders- AKA- fewer unexpected costs for you- the client!

Why In-House Design Makes a Difference

One of the key advantages of working with us is our team of three in-house designers, who specialize in every aspect of the design from space planning, construction documents, estimating selections, cabinet layout, to picking paint colors. Our designers are able to easily communicate with other members of our team during the project development and construction phases, carefully considering each detail of the project and how it will impact the overall scope.

A Better Experience for Homeowners

Renovations are deeply personal- and at times, emotional. For homeowners, the design-build process often feels less overwhelming. The ELM team is here to help guide you through the process to deliver beautiful and high-quality results tailored to your specific wants and needs. 

Are you ready to get started? Contact us today, and let’s bring your vision to life!

Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) 2025 Recap!

Each year, the Annual National Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) provides a glimpse into the future of home design with upcoming products and rising trends. Our Lead Designer, Liz Kennedy, attended KBIS last month and noted that her takeaways were all about texture, color, and customization. 

Texture and Color Take Center Stage

Across lighting, plumbing, appliances, cabinetry, and hardware, texture and color are the dominant themes. Think fluted glass shades, knurled appliance pulls, two-tone faucets, and textured cabinets. Quartz countertops are increasingly becoming one of the top choices for countertops, with more color options, natural veining, and textures becoming readily available and cost-effective.

• Lighting Embraces Variety: Milk glass and unique shapes define the latest lighting trends, adding depth and visual interest to spaces. This makes lighting serve both function and as an artistic element.

• Plumbing Gets Functional and Stylish: Filtered pull-down kitchen faucets are becoming more available, eliminating the need for separate beverage faucets. Diverse finishes, concrete elements, dual finishes, and pull-down options, along with unique tub feet, offer endless customization.

• Appliances Opt for White and Biophilia: White appliances were once the top finish choice before becoming outweighed by stainless steel; however, they are making their way back and better than ever! Biophilia (bringing nature indoors) is also making its way into the kitchen. Textured pulls add a tactile element, and interchangeable pull finishes allow for an easy way to elevate your kitchen!

• Cabinetry Focuses on Customization and Storage: Custom hoods, natural textures, smart storage solutions, and bold colors are key cabinetry trends. Refrigeration, heat, and storage are being integrated seamlessly.

Are you inspired by these trends? We’d love to help incorporate these elements into your next kitchen remodel!

A Dream Home for a Growing Family

As a young family with two energetic boys, this household was bursting at the seams and needed a home that provided space for everyone—including their beloved dog. What began as a cramped 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house was transformed into a spacious 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home, complete with a large living area, playroom, and office.

The renovation preserved the foundation and front elevation wall while the rest of the home was demolished to start anew. The homeowners envisioned bright, open spaces, ample storage, and a design that balanced beauty with everyday living.

Kitchen & Mudroom: A Functional Haven

For a busy working mom, a well-organized kitchen was essential. This space needed ample storage and counter space for cooking, entertaining, and after-school activities. Designed for efficiency, the kitchen features accessories such as a trash pullout, cutlery pullout, cutting board storage, and a concealed dishwasher with a panel front to blend seamlessly into the island. Alabaster painted cabinets, quartz countertops, and champagne bronze fixtures add a touch of classic elegance, while statement light fixtures provide just the right mix of modern and traditional.

Adjacent to the kitchen, the mudroom serves as a landing zone for the family. With two little boys, this space needed to be practical yet stylish. A built-in bench with storage cubbies provides a convenient place to put on shoes, while tongue-and-groove paneling enhances the aesthetic. Additional pantry storage was incorporated into this area, ensuring small appliances and everyday essentials remain easily accessible but neatly tucked away.

Living Room: A Space for Gathering

The family had several key requests for their living space: an inviting area to watch football, an open connection to the kitchen, ample windows, and a dedicated spot for their Christmas tree. These elements were carefully considered throughout the design process. The vaulted ceiling, adorned with stained beams, adds warmth and dimension. A brick tile fireplace facade seamlessly integrates with custom built-ins, which echo the cabinetry in the kitchen. Large windows along the rear elevation flood the room with natural light while offering a clear view of the backyard—perfect for keeping an eye on the kids at play.

Powder Room: A Statement Space

The powder room provided an opportunity to introduce bold character without feeling overly feminine. This colorful wallpaper brings a fun and vibrant touch, while a brass and marble console vanity, brass sconces, and a detailed mirror complete the look.

Primary Suite: A Relaxing Retreat

After long days at work, on the golf course, or chasing two energetic boys, the homeowners needed a retreat to unwind. The primary suite delivers just that. The en-suite bathroom features elegant marble hexagon flooring, custom cabinetry, and thoughtful storage solutions—including a built-in pullout for hair tools with an integrated electrical outlet. A cast-iron pedestal tub, set beneath a sunlit window, pairs beautifully with a champagne bronze wall-mounted tub faucet. Marble tile extends across the shower floor and walls, enhancing the spa-like atmosphere.

Upstairs: A Haven for the Boys

The upstairs was designed with the boys in mind. Their bedrooms share a Jack-and-Jill bathroom, where Evergreen Fog-painted walls complement custom-stained vanities and black fixtures. A large playroom with hardwood flooring provides the perfect space for Legos, trucks, and imaginative play—plus, it’s easy to clean up after inevitable spills.

A hidden bookshelf door at the top of the stairs conceals valuable attic storage while also serving as a unique design element.

A Home with Heart and Thoughtful Details

A key safety feature was the storm-safe room, designed to provide peace of mind for a storm-conscious child. Hidden beneath the stairs, this steel-reinforced space is accessed through a secret door and offers a secure place to wait out bad weather—with plenty of room for snacks and games to keep spirits high.

Another meaningful touch? To make the addition possible, a hickory tree in the backyard had to be removed. Instead of letting it go to waste, the homeowners had it milled and repurposed as ceiling planking for their vaulted back porch—creating a stunning natural feature that ties the home’s design to its roots. Cedar columns and beams further enhance the warm, inviting feel of this outdoor living space.

From the welcoming foyer to the tucked-away home office, every detail of this home was thoughtfully curated to create a functional, stylish, and family-friendly retreat. This transformation truly represents a dream home come to life— and we’d love to help make yours a reality too!