by David Ruter | May 18, 2025 | Blog
A Nostalgic Look Back: The Evolution of Kitchen Showrooms and the Power of Live Design
Before interactive 3D renderings and smart kitchen appliances, the remodeling experience was shaped by in-person showroom displays, real cabinets you could touch, and even celebrity visits to draw in curious customers. A quirky moment from 1986 — featuring a former football player turned sitcom actor — captures the humble, hands-on beginnings of a kitchen design revolution. At Ram Remodeling in Bloomington, MN, we understand how far kitchen design has come — and how important it is to honor that journey.
1. A Snapshot from 1986: Personality Meets Product
The story of this “blast from the past” centers on a beloved kitchen showroom in Longwood, Florida, where a retired football star donned an apron and chef’s hat to film a commercial. Though his name may be lost to time, the moment reflects how kitchen design was becoming more than cabinetry — it was becoming an experience.
The display he stood in featured:
Quakermaid custom cabinets
An oak butcher block island
One of the showroom’s first functional kitchen setups
This approach to experiential design — letting people see and interact with their future kitchen — was pioneering for its time.
2. The Role of Live Kitchens in Design Innovation
The success of that original live kitchen led to the creation of two smaller displays, eventually paving the way for a new, fully functioning showroom kitchen. These setups became the perfect venues for:
Cooking demonstrations
Client walkthroughs
Design education seminars
Fact:
The rise of live showroom kitchens in the 1980s and 1990s helped boost consumer confidence in remodeling, according to Kitchen & Bath Design News. Seeing cabinetry and appliances in action made the investment more tangible for homeowners.
3. What Makes a Live Showroom Valuable Today?
Interactive showrooms remain an invaluable part of the remodeling process. Modern displays let customers:
Test the flow of a layout
See lighting at work across finishes
Feel the difference between wood types, glazes, and hardware
Visualize proportions and appliance integration
Today’s showroom kitchens often feature smart appliances, integrated lighting, quartz or natural stone countertops, and multi-functional islands.
If you’re curious about what a modern, interactive kitchen showroom offers and how it helps you make better remodeling decisions, click here.
4. Designing for the Senses
From that first display to today’s high-tech designs, one principle remains: people connect to kitchens emotionally. The smell of wood cabinetry, the soft gleam of tile under lighting, the quiet close of a drawer — these tactile experiences matter. A live kitchen brings all your senses into the design conversation, far beyond what you see on a screen.
5. Honoring the Past, Designing for the Future
The upcoming renovation of the Longwood showroom echoes a broader trend — remodeling firms investing in dynamic showrooms that evolve with trends and technology. By offering real-use demos and educational events, companies create more informed, confident clients.
At Ram Remodeling, we continue that legacy by creating client experiences that blend classic craftsmanship with innovative design thinking.
Built on Decades of Dedication
Ram Remodeling has been a trusted remodeling partner for families in Bloomington, MN since the 1970s. As a multi-generational, family-owned company, we’ve watched trends come and go — and evolved with them. What hasn’t changed is our commitment to high-quality, meaningful home transformations and helping every client see and feel their future home before a single cabinet is installed.
FAQs
What is a live kitchen showroom?
It’s a fully functioning kitchen display in a showroom, often used for demonstrations, client walkthroughs, and hands-on appliance experiences.
Why are showroom kitchens important for remodeling clients?
They allow clients to interact with finishes, layouts, and appliances — helping them make informed design decisions.
Are showroom visits necessary before remodeling?
Highly recommended. They help you experience materials in person and often uncover preferences you didn’t know you had.
How has kitchen showroom design changed over the decades?
From static displays to interactive, tech-integrated setups with real cooking functionality and lifestyle simulation.
Can I visit a showroom during planning, even if I’m not ready to commit?
Yes! Showrooms are meant to inspire, educate, and help you visualize what’s possible — no pressure required.
Conclusion
From celebrity-studded commercials in the ’80s to modern interactive showrooms, the evolution of kitchen design reflects how deeply personal and immersive remodeling has become. Whether you’re nostalgic for oak butcher block or looking ahead to smart tech integration, Ram Remodeling is here to walk with you — from first vision to final reveal.
by David Ruter | May 15, 2025 | Blog
Why a Home Beverage Bar Should Be Part of Your Next Remodel
No longer reserved for luxury hotels or upscale lounges, the home beverage bar is one of the hottest remodeling trends in modern kitchens. Whether it’s a cozy coffee station, a family-friendly drink center, or a sleek setup for entertaining guests, a well-designed beverage bar adds both style and functionality. At Ram Remodeling in Bloomington, MN, we’ve helped countless homeowners build custom drink zones tailored to their unique lifestyles.
1. The Resurgence of the Home Bar
As more people shift toward entertaining at home and enjoying curated experiences with family and friends, the home bar is back in demand. But it’s not just about cocktails. Beverage bars now serve as all-in-one hubs for:
Coffee and espresso
Smoothies and sparkling water
Craft beer and wine
Kid-friendly sodas and juice stations
Fact:
According to Moen’s design trend report, home beverage bars have seen a surge in popularity, driven by the rise in craft beverage culture and the growing desire to entertain at home.
2. Start Small or Go Big — It’s Up to You
A beverage bar doesn’t require a full room or large footprint. Many homeowners tuck a single cabinet and countertop into an unused nook, complete with a coffee machine and mug rack. Others dedicate entire walls or islands to full-service bar setups with sinks, wine coolers, mini-fridges, and glassware storage.
3. Key Design Considerations
Your beverage bar should reflect your habits and your home’s flow. Ask yourself:
Do you need coffee prep in the morning rush zone, or tucked away for quiet weekend use?
Should your wine station be near the dining room or patio for easy entertaining?
Do kids need easy access to filtered water or juice without crowding the main kitchen?
Each design should support how your family actually lives.
If you’re interested in creating a custom home bar that suits your lifestyle, click here.
4. Smart Storage and Specialized Equipment
No one wants a cluttered counter. Incorporate custom cabinetry to hold:
Mugs, cups, and glassware
Coffee pods, syrups, or drink garnishes
Bottle openers, decanters, or diffusers
Built-in wine fridges, espresso machines, or kegerators
A small sink nearby improves functionality, while an under-counter icemaker can be a game-changer for entertaining.
5. Adding Convenience and Style to Daily Routines
The best beverage bars don’t just look good — they streamline everyday routines. Imagine:
Grabbing your morning espresso without navigating kitchen chaos
Hosting with wine and cocktail essentials in arm’s reach
Giving kids their own hydration station (and keeping them out of your way)
These stations make your home feel more organized, functional, and luxurious — without a full renovation.
We’ve Been Creating Gathering Spaces Since the 1970s
At Ram Remodeling, we know that great design goes beyond walls and floors — it supports your lifestyle and enhances your daily experiences. As a family-owned company based in Bloomington, MN, we’ve been helping homeowners reimagine their kitchens for over 50 years. A custom beverage bar is more than an upgrade — it’s an investment in the way you live and entertain.
FAQs
How much space do I need for a beverage bar?
It can be as small as a 24-inch cabinet or as large as a full wall. Design depends on how you use it and what appliances you include.
Can I include a beverage bar in a small kitchen?
Yes. Vertical storage, multi-use cabinets, and corner nooks make it easy to incorporate one even in tight layouts.
What appliances are popular for home bars?
Wine fridges, built-in espresso machines, icemakers, and mini beverage fridges are among the top choices.
Is plumbing necessary for a beverage bar?
Only if you want a sink or built-in appliances that require water. Many bars are dry setups with no plumbing needed.
Does a home bar increase resale value?
Yes. It adds a touch of luxury and functionality that’s appealing to modern buyers, especially in open-concept homes.
Conclusion
A home beverage bar isn’t just a trend — it’s a practical, beautiful addition that brings joy to everyday routines and makes entertaining easier. Whether you’re looking for a quiet morning coffee zone or a statement-making cocktail station, Ram Remodeling can bring your vision to life with expert planning, smart storage, and custom design.
by David Ruter | May 13, 2025 | Blog
Banana River Kitchen: Coastal Elegance Meets Classic Charm in a Dream Remodel
Nestled along the scenic Banana River, one couple’s kitchen remodel marked the final chapter of their 1970s-era home transformation. They weren’t just upgrading a room — they were crafting the heart of their home, a space for family, entertaining, and taking in breathtaking waterfront views. At Ram Remodeling in Bloomington, MN, we know a great kitchen isn’t just about function — it’s about connection, comfort, and timeless beauty.
1. The Vision: Classic Meets Coastal
The homeowners envisioned a kitchen with a traditional foundation and just enough beachside flair to echo their riverside surroundings. They had already purchased key materials like tumbled stone backsplash tile and porcelain flooring, waiting for the perfect design to bring it all together.
Their goal: an open, welcoming space filled with natural light, soft blue hues, and wood tones that warmed the room without overpowering it.
2. Smart Structural Changes for a Brighter Layout
To unlock the kitchen’s potential, they had to let go of an outdated layout. Removing:
A half bath in the laundry room
Soffits that darkened the space
A hall closet that was reimagined as a custom pantry and bar
This bold decision transformed the layout into one that flowed naturally, allowing for open sightlines and uninterrupted light.
Fact:
Kitchens with open layouts and ample natural light have been shown to increase home value and buyer interest more than any other room in a remodel, according to Zillow research.
3. Finishing Touches: Materials That Tell a Story
Lindsey Schwartz of S&W Kitchens provided design support to bring the couple’s long-held vision to life. The cabinetry, selected from Omega Dynasty’s Bancroft line in cherry wood with a sage stain and Onyx glaze, gave the space warmth and timeless appeal.
To echo the nearby river, blue glass tile inserts were added to the backsplash, providing a subtle aquatic shimmer that tied the kitchen to its environment without being thematic.
If you’re inspired by this story and want to learn more about integrating coastal charm into your own space, click here.
4. Thoughtful Technology and Design Details
The countertops were chosen for their fluid, river-like patterns, adding movement and organic beauty. Fixtures like the Delta Addison Touch20 faucet provided modern convenience with a nod to elegant design.
The ceiling lights were recessed to maintain height and openness, and the space was designed for seamless entertaining — from bar service to family-style meals.
5. Maximizing Storage and Organization
A smaller, redesigned laundry room became a utility powerhouse, housing:
A second refrigerator
Stacked washer/dryer
Landing zone for backpacks and daily items
The cabinetry in this room used Omega Dynasty Renner in maple wood with an oyster finish, tying back to the main kitchen without duplicating it. Everything was designed for efficiency and easy access, ensuring clutter never interrupted the coastal calm of the new space.
Remodeling With a Purpose Since the ’70s
At Ram Remodeling, we specialize in transformations just like this — personal, meaningful, and entirely custom. As a family-run company based in Bloomington, MN since the 1970s, we’ve helped homeowners reimagine their spaces to reflect their lives, values, and aspirations. Whether you’re remodeling your first kitchen or your last, our experience ensures your vision becomes a reality — beautifully and efficiently.
FAQs
Can I mix traditional and coastal styles?
Yes! Use natural textures like wood and stone as your base, then incorporate subtle coastal tones (like blue or aqua) for accent. The key is balance.
Is it worth removing a half bath to expand the kitchen?
It depends on your layout. If you already have other bathrooms, removing a rarely used one can create major spatial and functional upgrades.
How can I design a kitchen for both daily use and entertaining?
Create zones: prep, cooking, serving, and gathering. Include features like an island with seating, a bar nook, and efficient storage.
Are touch-activated faucets reliable?
Yes, modern touch faucets like Delta’s Touch20 offer excellent functionality and are easy to clean, especially during cooking.
How do I maintain a light-filled kitchen?
Use reflective surfaces, open shelving or glass-front cabinets, and minimal visual barriers between the kitchen and adjacent spaces.
Conclusion
The Banana River Kitchen is proof that even the most outdated room can become a masterpiece when vision and craftsmanship come together. From thoughtful layout changes to detail-rich finishes, this remodel showcases what’s possible with the right planning and design guidance. If you’re ready to reimagine your kitchen into a space that’s beautiful, functional, and uniquely yours, Ram Remodeling is here to bring your dream to life.
by David Ruter | May 11, 2025 | Blog
A Retro Bath Makeover: From Avocado Green to Sophisticated Serenity
There’s something nostalgic about avocado green — until it’s staring back at you from a 1970s guest bathroom. That’s exactly what radio personality Ann Kelly was dealing with. Her dated tub and sink were more blast-from-the-past than charming vintage. Thankfully, with the right design approach, even the most outdated space can become a modern, serene sanctuary. At Ram Remodeling in Bloomington, MN, we believe every space has the potential for reinvention, no matter how “retro” the starting point.
1. Out with the Avocado: Recognizing When It’s Time for a Full Renovation
Avocado green fixtures instantly date a bathroom — a color trend that peaked in the 1960s and ’70s. While retro styles can sometimes be revived, plumbing fixtures in old color palettes are usually more trouble than they’re worth, with outdated materials, chips, and aging finishes.
Ann Kelly knew her bathroom needed more than a refresh — it needed a total transformation, starting with new flooring, tile, and of course, a tub.
2. The Importance of Fixture Selection
Updating a bathroom means more than choosing pretty finishes. It also requires understanding functionality — like the difference between a left-hand and right-hand tub, which refers to the position of the drain and faucet when facing the tub from the front.
When choosing fixtures, consider:
Drain location (plumbing alignment)
Tub size (depth and footprint)
Materials (acrylic vs. cast iron)
Finish compatibility (fixtures should match in style and metal tone)
3. A Fresh, Calming Palette: Grey and Blue Elegance
For Ann, the design choice was light greys with soft blue accents, creating a spa-like ambiance that’s timeless and inviting. Cool tones, when combined with good lighting and soft textures, transform the bath into a space for relaxation, not just utility.
Subtle color accents can:
Highlight architectural elements like niches or tile borders
Offer visual depth without overwhelming small spaces
Pair beautifully with chrome, brushed nickel, or matte black fixtures
If you want to read about how Ann transformed her dated guest bath into a modern oasis, click here.
4. Demolition to Reveal: The Power of a Thoughtful Remodel
The transformation from green-and-cramped to modern-and-airy wasn’t just aesthetic — it was functional. The layout was improved for better flow, and new flooring and tile choices added light and polish.
Fact:
According to the National Association of Realtors, a bathroom remodel offers a 70%+ return on investment, making it one of the smartest upgrades you can make.
5. Professional Guidance Makes the Difference
Designer Larissa Hicks guided Ann every step of the way — from layout planning to fixture selection to demo day. This collaboration is key. Working with a designer ensures your space meets both style and practical needs, helping avoid common mistakes like mismatched finishes or awkward layouts.
A History of Transformations That Matter
At Ram Remodeling, we’ve turned countless outdated spaces into beautiful, efficient rooms that our clients love. As a family-owned business serving Bloomington, MN since the 1970s, our legacy is built on quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of our clients’ needs. Whether you’re saying goodbye to avocado green or planning your dream spa bath, we’re here to bring it to life.
FAQs
What is a right-hand vs. left-hand tub?
It refers to the side the drain and faucet are on when facing the tub. Knowing this is crucial for plumbing alignment during replacement.
How do I choose a timeless bathroom color scheme?
Neutral palettes like grey, white, and soft blues or greens provide longevity and adapt well to changing trends.
Do I need to replace my tub to modernize my bathroom?
Not always. But if it’s chipped, stained, or the wrong size, a replacement can dramatically improve the room.
What’s better for resale: a tub or a shower?
Ideally, have at least one tub in the house, especially if appealing to families. A walk-in shower is great for the master or guest bath.
Can I update my bathroom without moving plumbing?
Yes, but relocating fixtures offers more layout flexibility. Your designer can help weigh the cost vs. benefit.
Conclusion
Ann Kelly’s guest bath transformation is proof that no space is too outdated to reinvent. With thoughtful design choices, smart fixture selections, and expert guidance, you can breathe new life into even the most retro room. Let Ram Remodeling help you make your own dramatic before-and-after story — without the avocado green.
by David Ruter | May 8, 2025 | Blog
How a Kitchen or Bath Remodel Can Help You Achieve Your New Year’s Resolutions
Every year, we set ambitious resolutions — get organized, spend more time with family, save money, or finally take time for ourselves. But somewhere between January and June, life gets in the way. What if the answer to staying on track wasn’t in a planner or fitness app, but in your kitchen or bathroom remodel? At Ram Remodeling in Bloomington, MN, we transform living spaces that truly support the lifestyle changes you want to make.
1. Resolution: Get Organized — Start with the Kitchen
Disorganization is often the root cause of chaos at home. A remodel can completely reset your space for clarity and functionality. Think:
Pull-out pantry systems
Vertical cookie sheet storage
Drawer dividers for utensils and spices
Lazy Susans to maximize corner cabinets
Imagine moving your sink under the window, tearing out non-load-bearing walls, and rebuilding the space around your daily needs.
Fact:
A study by UCLA’s Center on Everyday Lives of Families found that cluttered kitchens increase stress and reduce productivity. Remodeling with custom storage helps eliminate this.
2. Resolution: Help Others by Taking Care of Yourself
You can’t pour from an empty cup. A remodeled kitchen that makes cooking joyful — or a spa-like bathroom that restores your spirit — helps you show up stronger for others.
Give homemade jams or meals from your gourmet kitchen
Recharge in a bath with chromatherapy, hydro jets, and integrated music
Create a space where you and loved ones want to gather and connect
3. Resolution: Learn Something New in a Better Environment
Skills like bread baking, canning, or herbal tea blending are much more accessible in a kitchen that’s built to inspire. Likewise, a remodeled bathroom becomes a peaceful oasis for practicing mindfulness, meditation, or yoga.
The tools and layout of your space influence your habits — remodeling gives you the platform to grow.
If you’re ready to realign your space with your resolutions, click here.
4. Resolution: Spend More Time with Family
Open-concept kitchens with large islands, breakfast bars, and family seating turn cooking into a collaborative experience.
Let the kids:
Learn to chop, mix, and bake
Sit and do homework while you prep meals
Bond over daily routines and rituals
When your kitchen feels inviting, mealtime becomes family time, not just a chore.
5. Resolution: Save Money and Reduce Debt
Yes, a remodel is an investment — but one that pays dividends. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, smart lighting, and water-saving plumbing fixtures lowers your utility bills. Cooking at home more often also reduces dining-out expenses, which can save families thousands annually.
Over time, these efficiencies make your home cheaper to operate and increase its resale value.
6. Resolution: Enjoy Life More — In Every Room
Your home should energize you, not drain you. When your kitchen is organized, your bath is relaxing, and your family is connected — life is simply better.
A well-planned remodel helps you:
Enjoy more peace
Stay physically and mentally healthier
Maintain positive daily routines
Live aligned with your long-term goals
A Remodeling Partner That’s Been Resolving Home Challenges Since the ’70s
At Ram Remodeling, we go beyond surface-level updates. As a family-owned company based in Bloomington, MN for over 50 years, we’ve helped generations of homeowners create homes that support their ambitions — from wellness to financial stability to stronger family ties. Your resolutions deserve a home that works just as hard as you do.
FAQs
Can remodeling really help me stick to my resolutions?
Absolutely. Spaces built with your goals in mind reduce friction, improve daily habits, and encourage healthy routines.
What remodeling projects give the biggest lifestyle payoff?
Kitchen and bathroom updates offer the most significant returns in both daily function and resale value.
Is it better to remodel a kitchen or a bathroom first?
It depends on your priorities. Kitchens impact your family dynamic and diet, while bathrooms affect self-care and wellness.
How much can I save with energy-efficient upgrades?
Homeowners can save up to 30% annually on utilities with modern appliances and low-flow fixtures.
Is now a good time to remodel?
Yes. Material costs are stabilizing, and improving your living environment can help you meet life goals more effectively.
Conclusion
Your home should be more than a place you live — it should help you live better. Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom is an intentional way to build momentum for your personal goals. Whether it’s getting organized, connecting with family, or simply enjoying life more, Ram Remodeling can help make it happen with a space that inspires and supports your growth.
