Re-Designing the Space

As we talked with the client, we quickly identified their desire to bring more light and openness to the home’s main living areas, something that’s not typical in a 1920’s Tudor-Style home. Our original remodel of the home came at a time when their children were young and living at home. Today, as empty nesters, the client wanted to use the space differently. They openly shared their goals of having more space, improving the flow, and incorporating the outdoors into their home. Having worked with RIGGS on multiple projects in the past, they knew they could trust our proposed solutions and welcomed our ideas.

The first idea was a big one. As we examined the layout, we recognized that the kitchen was simply not in an ideal location for how the clients wanted to live and entertain. When the children lived at home, it served them well, but today’s needs called for a different solution. Our suggestion was to move it to the other side of the house where it would find itself in the heart of the action for entertaining. Once that was agreed upon, we suggested a series of modifications to the main floor layout, including the removal of walls to brighten the space and improve flow, as well as building a new bathroom and entry area to serve the backyard pool.

The Kitchen Remodel

A larger, light and airy new kitchen was created for the home, featuring a wall of windows to allow the client a full view of their property, as well as a simplification of the space for a more open feel. No wall cabinets were included in the design, which initially was difficult for the clients to understand. We alleviated their concerns by adding a butler’s pantry to maximize storage and house their double oven, a beloved appliance they wanted to keep, but for which there was little wall space in the main kitchen area. They were pleased that the design gave them everything they were asking for.

Existing cabinetry was used, while unique and beautiful tile was installed on the walls. A custom cabinet was designed for the end of the island to house dishes and glassware traditionally stored in wall cabinets, providing further confidence to the client that the removal of wall cabinets was realistic. The installation of additional windows maximized the light coming in to the space. All of these details worked together to create the modern and open feel that the clients dreamed of.

The Home “Remix”

In addition to the relocation and remodeling of the kitchen, this project also included the removal of many walls to open the flow of the home and create more usable, connected space. Areas that were part of this phase of the remodel included the home office, dining room and a loft area that the clients lovingly refer to as “the tree house.” Opening up the tree house created a family room, allowing the client to relocate the television from the formal living room and into this more casual space. A new office space was also created, while the former home office space was transformed into a new dining room by enlarging the opening, now designed to match the beautiful arched openings throughout the home.

These spaces, among others in the home which often were ignored, are now functional, connected and used by the client on a daily basis.

The Bathroom Remodel

The property features a large pool in the backyard, so the clients wanted to create an entry area and bathroom that would be accessible to visitors of the pool. We designed a simple yet striking fully tiled bathroom that would stand up to the wet feet and swimsuits that the room was sure to welcome. The entry area serves as an indoor “pool house” right in their own basement, serving as the perfect changing room, providing guests a great place to hang towels, kick off their flip flops, and store other pool toys and accessories. The creation of this space allowed the homeowners the functionality of a full pool house, eliminating the need to build a standalone, outdoor structure to serve this purpose.

The Basement Remodel

As is the case with many older homes, the basement had low ceilings and space that wasn’t ideal for use by the client, most notably, the man of the house who sought a space that would function well for his daily activities of watching sports, caring for the family dog, and outdoor grilling.

To address his needs, we opened up the space, raising the original ceiling as much as possible. We went on to remodel the bar area to create a mini-kitchenette, and designed the space with an open, more modern feel to replace to existing 1950’s style that had previously been in place.

The client also expressed his desire for the lower level space to flow seamlessly into the outdoors. We achieved this through the installation of an 8-foot sliding patio door which opens onto a large outside living area featuring an outdoor kitchen and television.

The Results

The client couldn’t be more pleased with the work we performed on their whole house remodel. All rooms in the home welcome more light, and rooms that previously went unused are now seeing daily activity and purpose. The flow of the home is now perfect for entertaining, something the clients love to do. The client can serve outdoor guests directly through her kitchen windows. The opening of the interior space created improved sight lines throughout the home, bringing the outdoors and the pool area in view and making the outdoor spaces feel closer.

Visitors to the home, including their grown children, are enjoying the home in new ways and making new memories along the way.

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Brian has grown with RIGGS since starting in 1986 as a Carpenter Apprentice, advancing over time to Journeyman Carpenter, Project Manager, and more recently Senior Project Manager.  Now, as the Production Manager, he utilizes his firsthand knowledge of all field work and job management to oversee progression of all RIGGS’ jobs, in addition to training and managing the entire field production staff.  Brian is also responsible for tool and material inventory, tool maintenance, and warehouse orderliness.  Decades of experience enables him to act as a client advocate with a focus on fostering and managing relationships between client and staff.

“Brian has naturally transitioned into this position with his years of experience and longevity in the company,” said Amie Riggs, Vice-President of RIGGS Company. “His easy-going personality makes him an amazing teacher and peer. He is a true leader, and we are thrilled about his next chapter here at RIGGS.”

Watching his father excel as a finish carpenter with RIGGS for many years, he grew a passion for carpentry at  a young age, choosing to follow in his father’s footsteps.  Now with more than thirty years as a union  carpenter, Brian has proven himself a skilled craftsman, producing exceptionally beautiful custom woodwork that rivals even his father’s.

“I am excited for my new role and responsibilities with the company, and look forward to learning and growing within the RIGGS family,” said Marquis. “I enjoy the challenge of remodeling and finish work, especially the opportunity to be creative.  Now as Production Manger I get to see all stages of a job, starting with the acquisition of a new project through to the presentation of its final result.”

Brian was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri and is happily married to his wife, Jann. In his free time, he enjoys any time outdoors camping, hunting, and fishing, as well as spending time with his grandchildren.

About RIGGS Company

For nearly 60 years and three generations under family leadership, RIGGS Company has dedicated themselves to the highest values of uncompromising quality, doing what’s best for the client at all times, proposing the right solutions and executing each job with unparalleled excellence. RIGGS is a recipient of the Better Business Bureau TORCH Award, is a longtime supporter of events and causes in the Kirkwood community, and has received numerous Homer Awards from the Home Builders Association of St. Louis. The firm has been featured in the St. Louis Business Journal Table of Experts, in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, and a number of construction and remodeling trade publications. For more information, visit www.riggscompanystl.

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Firstly, it looks like the hot colors this year will be pretty muted and inspired by nature. Very cool tones that will bring tranquility and calm into your space, including shades of blue, green, gray, light pinks, tan and purple. These colors are soothing and restorative, meaning your home will be your sanctuary and place to take a moment from your stressful, busy life to relax. Another nice feature of these colors are the fact that they are super versatile and perfect for both interior and exterior projects, and matches with so many colors and design styles, from traditional, modern, to coastal and global.

Earthy tones are also hot if you’re not a fan of the cool tones, from olive-browns to rich greens. And a trend that we don’t see going anywhere, anytime soon, is gray. Pure gray, purple gray, blue gray, green gray, they’re all popular and they’re all on the list for 2018.

You can use these shades to create a mindful space, perfect for awareness and providing a place that balances our busy life activities, reduce stress and remind us of the moments of joy in our lives. Yes, that might sound a bit dramatic when we’re just talking about a color, but these shades have the power to create calm. At least it does for us!

Another color trend that will be hot this year is accents. Whether it be a pop of color in your home decor or painting a wall a vibrant color, accents are a great way to add interest and create a maximum impact. Not ready to pull the plug and make a major color change inside your house? Try painting the front door! It adds great curb appeal and will freshen the look of the whole house in just a matter of minutes.

Speaking of painting your door, a trend making a huge statement for the interior of your home is painting your doors black! If you’re someone with kids, this might seem extra appealing to you, say good bye to finger prints and drawings!

When it comes to home decor, jewel toned furniture looks to be popular this year, from chairs to pillows and candles, decor is a great way to add a pop of color and interest in a room without the commitment of painting a wall a vibrant color.

Natural wood and drift wood are hitting the market hard in 2018, from cabinets to tables and dressers, you’ll see the light natural wood sweeping the nation, especially in a contemporary setting.

So there you have it, a quick look at some of the color trends for 2018 that we’ve been noticing and loving. Do you plan on integrating any of these trends into your home? If so, what trends are you loving and what trends do you hope fizzle out quickly? Be sure to check out our 2018 Home Trends Pinterest board for more inspiration!

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July 24, 2017: St. Louis, Mo. – RIGGS Company, a Kirkwood design-build remodeling firm established in 1959, is excited to announce the relocation of the business in the Kirkwood community. After 17 years in their current building, on North Clay Avenue, RIGGS will open the doors to their new space at 333 Leffingwell Avenue, Unit 109 in Kirkwood, MO by the first week in September.

“We are thrilled to have this opportunity to highlight innovation, enhance client service, and more efficiently use our work and display areas,” said Amie Riggs, Vice-President of RIGGS Company. “We’re currently in the process of building out the space in our new location, which we designed to focus on what our clients need and want from us today. While we loved our old building and its charm, that space did not give us the flexibility to expand, grow and show our full capabilities.”

The new RIGGS location at 333 Leffingwell Avenue is one block from downtown Kirkwood, directly next door to their warehouse, which made it an ideal location. The relocation is beneficial to both employees and clients, including better parking and a more streamlined and efficient office design. RIGGS will remain open during the move and will be operating business as usual.

A big part of business as usual for the RIGGS family includes giving back to the Kirkwood community, where they’ve lived and operated since the company’s founding in 1959.

“The new space positions us well to be able to continue serve our community’s needs, something we all feel very passionately about,” said Riggs. “We’ve maintained our presence in the heart of Kirkwood and have reduced our expenses in the process, allowing us the resources and ability to give back to the community. Kirkwood is our home, and the entire team is excited for the opportunity to make this move.”

About RIGGS Company

For over 55 years and three generations under family leadership, RIGGS Company has dedicated themselves to the highest values of uncompromising quality, doing what’s best for the client at all times, proposing the right solutions and executing each job with unparalleled excellence. RIGGS is a recipient of the Better Business Bureau TORCH Award, is a longtime supporter of events and causes in the Kirkwood community, and has received numerous Homer Awards from the Home Builders Association of St. Louis. The firm has been featured in the St. Louis Business Journal Table of Experts, in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, and a number of construction and remodeling trade publications. For more information, visit www.riggscompanystl.

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Have you been thinking about remodeling your bathroom? Perhaps you’re ready to get rid of the old pink tile, outdated cabinetry or dingy tub and shower, but you’re not quite sure where to start, or know what options are out there today. The RIGGS team is here to help! We’ve compiled a list of the top trends we’re seeing in St. Louis homes this year so that you know what’s hot, and what you may want to keep on your radar as you plan your bathroom remodeling project.

Freestanding Tubs

The tub as you know it is a place to bathe, but this year we’re seeing the bathtub take center stage as a beautiful piece of furniture. You’re probably used to seeing the tub placed in a corner or built into an alcove, but today, tubs are standing alone with no platform or steps surrounding it. Many beautiful designs and shapes are available, depending on your taste and design style. Whether you choose a vintage claw-foot or modern soaking tub, this freestanding item will provide any master bathroom an elegant, quiet and serene atmosphere.

Oversized Showers

If a freestanding tub isn’t your cup of tea, or if you have a lot of space to work with, oversized showers with multiple jets, shower heads, and steam options remain very popular in 2017. In fact, many homeowners have chosen to remove their tubs altogether to allow for large showers in their bathrooms! That’s because they can provide a spa-like experience for your everyday use. These types of showers can be designed with an endless variety of beautiful tile and glasswork to create the look and feel you’re after.

Floating Vanities

If you’re looking to make your freestanding tub or oversized shower the focal point of your space, you may want to consider the floating vanity. Minimalistic in design, these vanities provide a more modern and open feel in your bathroom. In many cases, you can expect for the design to offer drawers over doors to address your storage needs. Whether you prefer traditional or modern styling, the design of the floating vanity exudes uniqueness, and preserves space in your bathroom.

Smart Storage

Speaking of space, let’s talk about smart storage. Most bathrooms include some form of cabinetry for storage, and the good news is that cabinet manufacturers offer interior options to help you keep all your essentials organized. Smart storage cabinetry includes pull-outs, roll-outs and other special features that pack maximum utility into minimum space.

Round Mirrors

Mirrors are getting a makeover this year, replacing its traditional square and rectangular shapes with round, curved edges. This represents a departure from what we’re used to seeing in bathrooms and adds a dynamic focal point to the space. Round mirrors can create a unique and simple element that’s understated with a design that has the potential to stand the test of time.

We hope these trends for 2017 have inspired some ideas for your own home! Incorporating fresh designs into your bathroom will not only add value to your home, but will also allow you to give it your personal touch, and enjoy the time you spend there.

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The Grand Opening was April 8th and there was a massive turnout from the community, to which we are eternally grateful! The support we saw from the Kirkwood community was incredible. And now, Kirkwood has one of the best Children’s Rooms in the country. You can check out our album of photos from the Grand Opening HERE.

This space features a replica of the Kirkwood Train Station, along with a large, colorful train where kids can sit and read. But that’s not all, technology was key in making this children’s room so unique, with an interactive floor projector, a 3D printer and a smart table. The best part of the technology in the library is how it’s interactive to encourage collaboration and teamwork. Show Me St. Louis thought that the library was pretty awesome as well, so they came out for a tour of the space and might have discovered the coolest place to spend time with the kiddos. Here’s the Show Me St. Louis segment where you can see the high tech features of the children’s room in all of its glory.

We want to send a big thank you out to the Kirkwood Public Library for trusting us with this remodel. It has been an honor and a privilege to make your dream a reality and create an interactive space for learning, fun and collaboration. Another big thank you to our RIGGS team who worked so hard to execute and complete this one-of-a-kind project. You’ve gone above and beyond, and we cannot thank you enough!

If you haven’t stopped by the Kirkwood Public Library yet to check out the new space, what are you waiting for? Stop by today and let us know what’s your favorite feature.

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It’s often been said that the outside of your house is the first impression for visitors and passersby. What is your home’s exterior telling them? Are there dangers lurking that are signs of structural damage? Is there excess debris that’s not only unsightly, but that also could be causing improper water run-off or gutter clogs? Regardless, it’s wise to take a look around at the exterior components of your house to prevent costly repairs in the future. Here are some ideas to help you get the process started in the most common problem-areas:

The Roof

We’re not necessarily advocating that you grab a ladder and climb up on the roof, but the great news is that technology can assist in the process, allowing you to assess the area. For example, binoculars or a digital camera can come in handy when it comes to inspecting your roof. Both of these items will allow users to zoom in to view the details of the home. Plus, if you take digital photos each Spring, you can compare photos and see how your roof is aging, or identify problems that you may not have otherwise noticed.

Gutters

Chances are, debris has accumulated in your gutters over time. Your gutters may contain leaves, or even grime or pollutants from the snow or rain. Clogged gutters can cause major problems, including roof damage and water leaks.

Attics

If you suspect any roof damage, or are concerned that clogged gutters may have caused water to seep into your home (or if you’re just curious about what’s happening up there), pop your head up into your attic space. If you see any water stains which would look like black streaks on the ceiling of your attic, you may have a water leak. Black streaks typically unveil the path water has taken to get under your roof and inside your home.

Siding

Regardless of what material your siding is made of, spring is a great time to walk around the house and expect all sides. This will not only help you identify any damage, but will also uncover which side of your home is most impacted by sun, wind, rain, and other weather conditions that winter has brought your way. Check to ensure that your siding, fascia and trim are secure and in good condition. If you have wood siding, be sure the paint or stain is in good condition to prevent water damage. Or, it may be time to do some power washing, especially if you have vinyl siding.

Other Exterior Components to Consider

Your windows and doors may also need some attention now that winter has finally passed. Check for leaks and broken seals, and determine if there’s any air flowing into the home, which may signal the need for repair or replacement, or just a simple caulk job. If your windows and doors are made of wood, inspect all surfaces and perform any touch-up or re-painting necessary. Finally, decks, porches, stairs and railings will call for different upgrades depending on the material.

It may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! To help assist with your spring exterior inspection, develop an exterior maintenance checklist based on the points above to guide you through repairs to prevent water damage, reduce the loss of heated/cooled air and secure valuable belongings. And don’t forget, you don’t have to do this alone! If you suspect or encounter any damage, enlist the help of a professional. By hiring contractors to correct damage, you’ll keep your property well-maintained. Homeowners who act promptly to correct problems with home systems extend the lifespan of residential property. We’re looking forward to helping you revitalize your home. Give us a call today!

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Antiques (Only)

We understand the importance of the past and its designs, but when you’re designing your home you don’t have to adhere to a specific period exclusively. Pairing antiques with pieces from the same period is pressure at its finest hour. Instead of worrying if you will find the right vase to match your American antique wood counters, look at different ways you can bring variety to your home. Aesthetically, challenge yourself to create a cohesive mix of elements from the past, present and future. If you want, you can use the antique as your starting point. If not, just throw it out altogether.

Oversized Furniture

If you’re looking to save some space this year, don’t allow yourself to become overwhelmed with oversized furniture. Space is important to any homeowner, and the use of heavier furniture serves as an inefficiency when designing your home. Playtime is over, and this year you should look for pieces that will provide both fit and functional interior landscape capabilities. If you’re far from the fantasy of oversized furniture designs, do away with the larger-than-life shoe shaped lounge chairs.

Cheap Mirrored Furniture

The cheap mirrored furniture is something that should have been chunked away in 2016. Just in case you’re still holding onto it in your home, do away with this low-end home décor piece. This piece of furniture only works if you’re looking to store it in a room with a Hollywood glamour presence. Although these items usually have multifunctional components to assist them, the practicality of these fashionable items has fallen behind.

Whirlpool/Jacuzzi Bathtubs

Bigger is better, so they say, but let’s rethink this when it comes to your bathtub. There’s nothing wrong with pampering yourself, but why would you want to do that in a pool? This year your focal point for your bathroom will be the free-standing tubs that creates an elegant, carefree space for your in-home spa. If it doesn’t do the trick, consider spacious showers that can be accompanied with multiple showerheads to help with your body sprays.

Over-the-Range Microwaves

Over-the-range microwaves – a poor, but past favorite that still tends to trend in pop culture. Sure, you’re saving space and playing safe, but the idea isn’t the best. Aesthetically, it isn’t that attractive on the eyes and isn’t the best for shorter home shoppers. An installed microwave drawer is more popular today and appeals to different buyers on the market. Instead of hindering yourself from making the sell on your home, think height and save yourself the hard time of rearranging your space.

Geometric Tiles

Look for something that is cost-effective, but look away from the tile! Not only are the materials overdone, but it calls for a lot of maintenance. Nowadays, you can improve the value of your home when you do away with the design. Yes, the style is classic and has stuck around for years, so why not try something bold and beautiful? Try a tile that focuses on continuity of straight lines that plays well with the atmosphere of your home’s aesthetic.

As you begin to create your 2017 resolutions, make sure you consider ways to resolve your personal space. Reinvent the house this year and start with a trend that is transformative and adaptable for your home in the future.

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When you think “Greenery,” the first thing you might think about is the environment, but there is more to this color than the mind can collect. If we look beyond the environment and engage with our social and political climate, we can see that this color reflects the current landscape. Not directly being influenced by money or the election, this color is all about freedom and possibility. The color is an outlet to new beginnings and aids you in the renewal and rejuvenation process.

“Greenery” is a tangy yellow-green with an illustrative reflection of hope. Currently, we reside in a world that is very stressful and tense. This color is the perfect acknowledgement to our nation that is serving an array of uncertain emotions. This shift is reflected by the proliferation of all things through architecture, lifestyle and other designs.

Since we’re speaking of architecture and design, try sprucing up your kitchen and highlight your room with this color. This color would make a great accent trim, and if you’re not about putting paint on the walls, you can always add plates to your cabinet for a fresher dish. Wake up energized when you color your walls with the calming tone of this subtle green. Paint your walls, closet doors or even the dresser to sleep sounder. “Greenery” also complements a wide variety of color schemes and can be used as an alternate neutral color to help balance out the ambiance of any room.

If you want to brighten up your bathroom, or revitalize any room, view Pantone’s Color of the Year website HERE to see more ideas on architecture, design, fashion and home décor. What do you think of “Greenery”? Do you think it serves a meaningful purpose for the year or do you prefer another color? We want to know your thoughts.

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Going Wacky with the Wallpaper

Searching for a home can be dreadful, but what’s more daunting is the idea of scraping wallpaper off the walls. Yes, wallpaper is removable but it doesn’t always scream move-in-ready. If you’re thinking of flourishing your walls with something new, fresh paint and neutral colors are good for staging your house while it’s on the market. When making your decision between paint or wallpaper, think about factors such as how long do you plan to stay in the house and if you’re considering selling it, would a buyer want to tear it all down? Some potential home owners might find scraping wallpaper off walls as their tipping point.

Removing ALL Bathtubs
We’ve noticed a trend in people removing bathtubs in their home. Maybe they don’t have children or don’t find themselves using tubs, so they remove them and put in elaborate showers. If you’re planning to someday resell your home, a lack of bathtubs WILL hurt the value of your house. You don’t know who might be looking at your home, maybe they have young kids who need a tub. Maybe it’s a family with dogs who need to be bathed. Maybe it’s someone who loves long, relaxing baths. Removing all tubs devalues your house because it makes it too “personal” to you, and it doesn’t make it desirable to the masses.

Installing “Kits”
You might see those bathroom kits or pre-fabricated sunrooms and think, “that’s a quick and easy way to update my home!” Yes, these might be quick, easy and less expensive than a remodel, but it will look exactly that way- quick and cheap. They don’t last long and break down quickly. As quickly as these break down, the money would be better spent in a custom bathroom remodel. When we have clients come to us with a recently purchased home, the first project they want completed is tearing out these bathroom surrounds and sunrooms. We can’t even tell you how many of these we have torn out.

Aging Appliances

Modern conveniences and styles in the kitchen is an easy way to add value to your home, but holding on to classic appliances that can’t be cleaned need to be replaced. The modern convenience route isn’t always necessary if you maintain a classic kitchen design. However, countertops and backsplashes that are stained or outdated detract value from the kitchen. It’s important that potential investors aren’t reminded of past circumstances that took place in the home. The goal is to erase any marks and enhance your kitchen with quality improvements. Remember, make proper and professional renovations – poorly done repairs and renovations will only burn your pockets.

Be encouraged to enhance your home to suit your standards of living. When doing this, make sure to consider the future of your home. All renovations aren’t the same, but demographically, you have to account all things that makes your home profitable to the housing market. Don’t just build with a beautiful space in mind, but build with value.

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