Vote for LaBonte Construction to Win Best of Milwaukee 2023
LaBonte Construction is excited to announce that we have been nominated as finalists in the Shepherd Express Best of Milwaukee competition! For the past several years, LaBonte Construction has earned the title Best of Milwaukee in the category of Home Improvement, and with your help, we can earn that title once again for 2023.
This will be the second and final round of voting, and the winners are selected from a list of finalists by multiple choice. The top vote getter in each subcategory is then named the Best of Milwaukee 2023.
LaBonte Construction is a finalist in the subcategories Basement/Rec Room Remodeler, Bathroom Remodeler, Home Builder, Home Remodeling, andKitchen Remodeler. It’s important for you to vote for LaBonte Construction in all of those categories.
PLEASE NOTE: If the ballot doesn’t show up in your Chrome desktop browser, you may need to switch to Firefox or use your phone. Shepherd Express also will not spam you with emails if you uncheck the “Sign up for updates” box when voting.
Rules:
One vote per person per category for each round
You must vote in at least 5 categories to make your ballot valid
Voters must provide a valid email address to be entered
You are not permitted to fill out or submit ballots on behalf of another individual
Nominate LaBonte Construction for Best of Milwaukee 2023
It’s that time of year again! It’s time for you to nominate LaBonte Construction as the Shepherd Express Best of Milwaukee 2023.
Every year, Shepherd Express gives Milwaukee consumers complete power with an open-ended ballot that includes over 300 categories in a wide range of industries. In a second round of voting, the winners are selected from a list of finalists by multiple choice. The top vote getter in each subcategory is then named the Best of Milwaukee! That’s why it’s so important for everyone to vote for LaBonte Construction in both rounds.
Nominations: Sept. 14-Oct. 12 Final Voting: Nov. 2–Nov. 30
(PLEASE NOTE: If the ballot doesn’t show up in your Chrome desktop browser, you may need to switch to Firefox or use your phone)
Rules:
One vote per person per category for each round
You must vote in at least 5 categories to make your ballot valid
Voters must provide a valid email address to be entered
You are not permitted to fill out or submit ballots on behalf of another individual
How to Vote
When you’re on the ballot page, scroll down and click on the “Home Improvement” category. Then scroll through all the different categories within Home Improvement, enter your name and email address, and write in LaBonte Construction for at least 5 of them. Please nominate us in categories like Home Remodeling, Home Builder, Kitchen Remodeler, Basement/Rec Room Remodeler, Bathroom Remodler, or any other category you think we would fit. Additionally, you can vote for some of your other favorite Milwaukee companies, and you will not receive spam email for voting!
Once you’ve voted for us, you’re done! Nominations are open through October 12, so don’t wait. Thank you to everyone for your continued support of our small business and hardworking staff!
Welcome to the world of color transformation! When it comes to revamping your space, few tools are as powerful as Pantone’s Color of the Year. This annual selection sets the tone for design trends and offers an exciting opportunity to infuse fresh energy into your home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of incorporating Pantone’s Color of the Year into your home remodel, helping you create a space that’s both stylish and uniquely you.
Understanding Pantone’s Color Choice of the Year
Pantone’s Color of the Year isn’t just a random selection; it’s a carefully chosen hue that reflects current cultural influences and trends. For example, the Pantone Color of the Year for 2023, Viva Magenta, might evoke feelings of strength, vitality, and optimism. This was stated by Leatrice Eiseman, the Executive Director of Pantone: “Invoking the forces of nature, Pantone Viva Magenta galvanizes our spirit, helping us to build our inner strength.”
Understanding the underlying message of the chosen color can guide you in creating an atmosphere in your remodeled home that resonates with your personal style.
Infusing Pantone’s Color into Flooring Choices
Your flooring serves as the foundation of your new home, setting the tone for the entire design. Consider hardwood options in tones that compliment the chosen Pantone color, creating a seamless flow throughout the space. If you’re looking for a more modern twist, you can explore tiles or vinyl flooring in shades that harmonize with the palette.
Floor patterns and finishes can also add a unique touch. From herringbone patterns to textured finishes, there are countless options to explore. Infusing Pantone’s color into your flooring choices ensures a cohesive and visually appealing design that brings life and energy to your space.
Creating Harmonious Walls and Ceilings
Selecting the Right Paint Colors
When finding the right paint colors for your walls and ceilings, take the time to consider the ambiance you want to achieve. Lighter shades can open up a room, creating an airy and spacious feel, while deeper tones add richness and coziness. Harmonizing these colors with Pantone’s chosen hue ensures a seamless flow throughout your space. Don’t be afraid to test swatches and observe how they interact with different lighting conditions. Remember, your walls and ceilings set the backdrop for your entire design, so choose with care and let your chosen Pantone color shine.
Incorporating Wallpaper and Treatments
Embracing the right treatments for your walls, windows, and ceilings can be a game-changer in elevating your space’s aesthetic. They offer a canvas for different patterns, textures, and designs that can truly transform the atmosphere around you. Consider using them strategically, perhaps as an accent wall or to highlight specific architectural features. The right wallpaper can add a certain level of depth, intrigue, and personality to your space that paint alone may not be able to achieve. Whether you opt for a bold pattern or a subtle texture, integrating these elements into your home remodel can create a visual story that complements Pantone’s chosen color. Don’t be afraid to explore all of the possibilities.
Styling Furniture and Accessories in Pantone’s Palette
Upholstery and Decor
The decor in your home remodel offers an opportunity to bring your chosen Pantone hue to life, creating focal points and tying the entire design together. Consider upholstery in shades that complement Pantone’s color, whether it’s in statement furniture pieces or smaller accents like throw pillows and blankets.
Artfully chosen decor items can further amplify the chosen palette, adding depth and character. Remember, balance is key – intertwining bold choices with neutral tones creates a harmonious and visually appealing space. You’ll be able to let your upholstery and decor reflect the dynamic energy of Pantone’s chosen color!
Artwork and Decorative Elements
When it comes to incorporating Pantone’s vibrant palette into your home, artwork and decorative elements could be considered your secret weapons. These pieces hold the power to truly bring a space to life, infusing it with personality and character that couldn’t be achieved through paint and furniture alone.
Consider selecting artwork that features shades from Pantone’s chosen color scheme, or opt for pieces that complement and enhance it. Additionally, decorative elements like vases, sculptures, and trinkets can act as accents, adding depth and interest to your remodeled home. Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles and textures to create a dynamic and visually appealing arrangement.
Lighting and Textiles: Enhancing the Color Experience
The right lighting can amplify the impact of Pantone’s Color of the Year. Consider using light fixtures that cast a warm or cool glow, depending on the desired atmosphere. Curtains, rugs, and throws also offer opportunities to further infuse the chosen Pantone color into your space. These various textiles add warmth and texture, contributing to a cozy and inviting environment.
Balancing Boldness with Neutrals
Neutral tones act as a versatile backdrop to bolder colors, allowing the Pantone Color of the Year to shine. These tones provide balance and prevent the space from feeling overwhelming.It’s also important to incorporate neutrals in larger areas like on walls or larger furniture pieces. This creates a grounding effect, allowing you to experiment with bolder choices in accents and accessories.
Personalizing Spaces with Pantone’s Color Palette
Your space should reflect your unique personality and style, and personalizing your space with Pantone’s Color Palette is where the magic truly happens. Infuse personal touches like family photos, heirlooms, or handmade decor to add warmth and character, making your space truly your own. These elements create an environment that tells your story and invites a sense of comfort and familiarity. So, let your creativity flow, and let your space reflect who you are.
Our Tips for Successful Implementation
Seeking professional guidance can make a world of difference in achieving your design vision. Consult with the home remodeling experts at LaBonte Construction for personalized advice, quality craftsmanship, and a seamless execution of your chosen color scheme.
Transforming Your Space with Pantone’s Color of the Year
You’re now equipped with the knowledge and inspiration to transform your space with Pantone’s Color of the Year. Whether you’re looking for a serene sanctuary or an energetic hub, remember that your home is an extension of you. Embrace the power of color and create a space that resonates with your unique style and personality.
If you would like to consult a professional, we would be happy to offer our expert guidance! Please contact us at LaBonte Construction, voted Best of Milwaukee 2022 in Home Remodeling by Shepherd Express readers.
We also ranked best in the Bathroom Remodeler, Basement/Rec Room Remodeler, and Kitchen Remodeler categories.
Custom Closets to Increase Home Storage
Are you feeling cramped and cluttered in your own home, constantly tripping over things or digging through piles of clothes? Home remodeling with custom closets can help solve your storage woes.
At LaBonte Construction, we’ve helped families enjoy the transformative power of custom closets. You can maximize your space, reduce clutter, and make your home feel more organized and comfortable. In this guide, we’ll show you where custom closets can make a big impact. And how we can help you design and install them.
Custom Closets: Bedroom
How you wake up sets the tone for your whole day. And a well-organized bedroom can help you get a great start. Unfortunately, bedrooms can be a magnet for clutter, particularly when it comes to shoes, clothing, and accessories.
One of our home remodeling clients, a couple with a small bedroom, had a closet that was overflowing. And they were constantly digging through piles of clothes to find what they needed. That’s when they decided to invest in a custom closet.
The benefits were immediate and impressive. With shelves and racks designed specifically for clothing and accessories, they could easily organize everything and keep the bedroom clutter-free. Plus, there was even extra space for a reading nook!
If you’re considering a custom closet for your bedroom, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Assess your storage needs: Take stock of what you have and what you need to store. Do you have a lot of shoes? Dresses? Sweaters? This will help determine what type of storage options you need.
Think vertical: Utilize the full height of your closet space with shelves, racks, and hanging rods.
Customize to your preferences: Do you prefer drawers or shelves? Open or closed storage? Customize your closet to fit your specific preferences and needs.
With a custom closet in your bedroom, you’ll be able to start and end each day in an organized and stress-free environment.
Living Room
Even a narrow closet can have a big impact (Click to view larger image) / LaBonte Construction.
As a focal point for family activities and entertaining guests, your living room should be functional, comfortable, and clutter-free. But with books, toys, games, and other items, it can be tough to keep your living room organized.
A closet with built-in shelves and bins is perfect for storing toys and games. And you may be surprised at the difference effective storage can make in your family’s daily lives.
If you’re considering a custom closet for your living room, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Assess your storage needs: What items do you need to store in your living room? Books? Electronics? Toys? This will help determine what type of storage options you need.
Think beyond traditional storage solutions: A custom closet can provide unique storage options, such as built-in shelves and drawers.
Consider multi-purpose storage: A custom closet can also be designed to serve multiple purposes, such as storage and display.
Kitchen
The kitchen is one area of the home where storage is essential. From pots and pans to pantry items, it’s important to have a place for everything. But with limited cabinet and pantry space, it can be tough to keep everything organized.
If you struggle with finding space for pots and pans, they can end up cluttering your cabinets and counters. Consider a custom closet with deep shelves and hanging racks, perfect for pots and pans and maybe cookbooks and pantry items.
If you’re considering a custom closet for your kitchen, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Assess your storage needs: Take stock of what you need to store in your kitchen, from pots and pans to pantry items.
Think about accessibility: Design your closet with easy access in mind, so you can quickly grab what you need while cooking or baking.
Consider a pantry system: A custom pantry system can provide additional storage and organization options for your kitchen.
Bathroom
Click to view larger image / LaBonte Construction
The bathroom is one area of the home where storage is often overlooked. But with toiletries, towels, and other necessities, it’s important to have a place for everything.
A custom closet can include built-in shelves for towels and toiletries, as well as additional drawers and cabinets for extra storage.
If you’re considering a custom closet for your bathroom, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Assess your storage needs: Take stock of what you need to store in your bathroom, from towels to toiletries.
Think about accessibility: Design your closet with easy access in mind, so you can quickly grab what you need while getting ready.
Consider a vanity system: A custom vanity system can provide additional storage and organization options for your bathroom.
With a custom closet in your bathroom, you’ll be able to start your day feeling refreshed and organized.
Home Office
As more people work from home, having a functional home office is becoming increasingly important. But with papers, files, and office supplies, it can be tough to keep everything organized.
A custom closet can include shelves for files and office supplies, as well as additional drawers for extra storage. And you can also add a desk with built-in storage to provide more workspace.
If you’re considering a custom closet for your home office, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Assess your storage needs: Take stock of what you need to store in your home office, from files to office supplies.
Think about functionality: Design your closet with your work style in mind, so you can easily access what you need while working.
Consider a custom desk system.
Garage
A custom hallway closet (Click to view larger image) / LaBonte Construction
The garage is often an overlooked area when it comes to organization and storage. But with tools, bikes, sports equipment, and seasonal decorations, it can quickly become cluttered and disorganized.
A custom closet can include built-in shelves and racks for their bikes and sports equipment. And additional drawers and cabinets for their tools and other items.
A workbench with built-in storage can provide a functional workspace.
If you’re considering a custom closet for your garage, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Assess your storage needs: Take stock of what you need to store in your garage, from tools to sports equipment.
Think about functionality: Design your closet with your hobbies and activities in mind, so you can easily access what you need.
Consider a workbench system: A custom workbench system can provide additional storage and workspace options for your garage.
With a custom closet in your garage, you’ll be able to easily find what you need and have a space to work on your projects.
Increase Storage Space and Improve Organization
Home remodeling with custom closets are an excellent way to increase storage space and improve organization in your home. By assessing your storage needs and designing a custom closet system that meets your unique needs and preferences, you can transform any space in your home into an organized and functional area.
We also were voted best in the Basement/Rec Room Remodeler, Bathroom Remodeler, and Kitchen Remodeler categories.
Budget Home Remodeling to Add Value
Budget home remodeling projects can add value to your home without breaking the bank. Let home magazines, remodeling TV shows, books, and websites inspire you with DIY projects.
Instead of taking on some major and time-consuming projects, try tackling some of these simpler ones. With a little effort, goodwill, and some help from family and friends, the value of your home will increase significantly, and you can confidently put it on the market.
Get rid of old carpet
Those old carpets are dated and worn out. And they may also trap contaminants and allergens, degrading air quality in your home.
Tile flooring or laminated floors are environmentally friendly and natural, and therefore always a better solution. Replacing your old carpets with a hard surface will reduce odors, make cleaning easier, and increase appeal to potential buyers.
Add insulation
As we noted in our post on energy-efficient insulation, a home loses as much as 40 percent of its energy due to air infiltration. The right insulation helps retain heat inside of your home while preventing air from leaking in. Apart from maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures, it also helps prevent roof and wall damage, such as leaks and mold.
Add trees and landscaping
Add landscaping.
In addition to adding value to your home through curb appeal, trees provide shade. Well-placed trees can help reduce cooling costs during the summer and lower the surrounding temperature.
Good landscaping design is sure to bring value to your home. See the Department of Energy website for ideas on Landscaping for Shade. If you don’t have the time for gardening, you can add low-maintenance shrubs and other colorful plants to add curb appeal.
Add a water filtration system
A water filtration system on your kitchen faucet is a small, inexpensive addition that will appeal to many home buyers. You can also stop buying bottled water .
Get rid of the popcorn ceiling
Popcorn ceiling.
Popcorn ceilings were popular in the ’60s and ’70s. Applying texture to drywall and plaster ceilings was a quick and easy way to hide imperfections with no painting required afterwards. However, its rough texture attracts dust and cobwebs and makes patching cracks and holes a headache.
You could remove it yourself, but popcorn ceilings installed before 1980 may contain asbestos. To be safe, have a professional test it first. If it’s asbestos-free, you just need to buy a solution to soften the texture and scrape the popcorn away.
Update your bathroom
Remodeling your bathroom is a great way to add more value to your home. Perhaps a full remodel is not within your budget. But small changes can freshen it up, such as replacing the wallpaper or lighting, add some fancy cupboard knobs, or update the faucet and shower heads.
Add energy-efficient fixtures
Energy-efficient appliances lower utility bills and also increase visual appeal throughout your home. A ceiling fan can enhance a room’s decor while also providing light and a soft breeze during the summer. Ceiling fans can also reduce your reliance on air conditioning.
Update your kitchen
A kitchen update can do wonders for the value of your home. If your sinks and appliances are very old and outdated, look into replacing them first. Next, you can update your cabinets with new varnish or paint and swap out those old handles for modern ones.
Keep up with the maintenance
Perform regular maintenance. Look out for small things that need to be repaired or replaced so they don’t become larger problems. For example, a leak spot on the ceiling can cause great damage to your roof if not taken care of promptly. Even small visible issues can cause potential buyers to worry that there are more issues out of view.
Repaint your home
A new paint job is a simple and cost-effective way to improve your home and increase its value. Freshly painted rooms will look clean and up to date. If your home is up for sale, the best thing to do is to choose neutral colors. You can certainly do the painting yourself. But hiring a professional ensures a high-quality finish.
The bigger the square footage, the bigger the value. However, if you have a smaller home, there are some visual tricks to make it appear bigger. Rooms can be made to appear bigger by strategically rearranging furniture.
Or you can replace heavy closed draperies with blinds or shutters, which will let in more light. Another great trick is to add a single large mirror in a room which will visually double the space.
Clutter also makes a room feel smaller than it actually is. Store your clutter out of sight or add some attractive shelves to an underused space and keep your things organized.
Upgrade your water heater
An old water heater can be a turn off for some home buyers. Tankless water heaters are more efficient—heating only the water you need as you need it—and will certainly leave a great impression on the buyers.
Update your appliances
Today, most homebuyers are looking at energy-efficiency. Appliances with an Energy Star label use 10 to 50 percent less energy and water than other conventional appliances. New models look great, and many are stainless steel which is a bonus. If you do not have the budget for new, modern appliances, at least opt for upgrading your lighting to Energy Star one.
The front door and porch are one of the first things that will be noticed as buyers make their way to your home. An old, worn-out front door can be replaced with a new and stronger one. Or you can simply repaint it with an inviting new color.
Add storage space
Add closet space in the bedroom.
High on the wish lists of many homebuyers is more storage space. Consider adding closets or a custom-shelving system within existing closets. Areas worthy of special attention may include:
The bedroom wardrobe—because people don’t usually complain about having too much space for their clothes.
The garage—a good place to store rotating seasonal items.
Update your fixtures
Fixtures in your home include curtain rods, light fixtures, doorknobs, switch plates, outlet covers, etc. Make sure that these are updated throughout your home because sometimes the devil is in the details. Outlets covers and switch plates, for example, look more attractive when made from metal. These changes are easy to do yourself and do not cost that much, just make sure you choose colors that appeal to a larger crowd.
Refresh the exterior
If you’re not inclined to repaint your home’s exterior, at least power wash it to recreate a like-new sparkle. While you’re at it, make sure to give the driveway and patio a wash as well.
Budget home remodeling: Conclusion
When your home is finally on the market, it is vital to keep a tidy and clean house, as an untidy home can give the impression of low maintenance overall. Add some homey touches like flowers, cookies, music that will instantly make the potential buyers feel at home.
We also ranked best in the Bathroom Remodeler, Basement/Rec Room Remodeler, and Kitchen Remodeler categories.
LaBonte Construction Wins Best of Milwaukee
Dave and I want to thank you, our clients, employees, vendors, and subcontractors for helping us earn the title of Best of Milwaukee 2022.
LaBonte Construction repeated our 2021 achievement as best in Home Remodeling and Bathroom Remodeling, and are now recognized as best Basement/Rec Room Remodeler and Kitchen Remodeler. We were also a finalist in the Home Builder category.
The last fifteen years have been an amazing journey. There have been some struggles, but we are blessed to have risen to the top of the pack of builders by being great communicators, dedicated to superior craftsmanship, and okay businessmen.
Victories like these provide affirmation that we continue to be on the right track as we grow our remodeling company.
The last year saw us hire another senior project manager and land some of the biggest jobs of our residential careers. One of our oldest employees beat cancer.
We took on a condo renovation in Chicago and began a better effort on social media (follow us on Facebook).
A referral is the greatest compliment we can receive. If you or one of your friends is looking for a home remodeling contractor or plans to build a new construction home, we would love to hear from you.
Thanks again for all of your support, and we wish you and your family a healthy, safe, and prosperous 2023.
Sincerely, CEO
Shepherd Express Best Of Milwaukee
LaBonte Construction is honored to be nominated again as a finalist in the annual Shepherd Express Best of Milwaukee Awards. We rely solely on word of mouth for clients to find us, and awards like these help our company continue to grow and validates the hard work of our employees and subcontractors.
We would appreciate it if you would take a moment to vote for us and your other favorite businesses. Our nominations are under the “Home Improvement” category. You must vote in at least 5 categories for your ballot to be valid.
We are finalists in the following categories:
Best Basement/Rec Room Remodeler
Best Bathroom Remodeler
Best Closet Designer
Best Home Builder
Best Home Remodeling Contractor
Best Kitchen Remodeler
Our subcontractors, friends, and coworkers were nominated under architect (HB Designs), plumber (Budiac Plumbing Inc.), and Farm-to-Table Restaurant (Morel).
Under the home improvements tab, you will find our nominations. Shepherd Express will not send you emails if you check the box saying you do not want any. You may get an email to verify you are a real email address if you have not voted prior.
We really appreciate your support, and if you are not already our customer, we look forward to working with you in the future.
CEO
