As the Michigan air turns crisp and golden leaves begin to fall, our homes naturally become the heart of the season, a place to linger, unwind, and savor the slow moments. Fall is all about comfort and connection, making it the perfect time to infuse your interiors with warmth, texture, and character.

At Watts Homes & Construction, we believe that great design is about more than how a space looks; it’s about how it feels. Whether you’re planning a few thoughtful updates or dreaming of a full home refresh, these fall-inspired design ideas can help transform your home into a haven of warmth and style.

 Layer in Warm, Earthy Tones

This year’s autumn palettes draw inspiration straight from nature – think rich chestnut browns, deep forest greens, and muted terracottas that echo the changing landscape outside. Even a subtle shift in color can completely transform a room’s mood.

Consider:
• A bold accent wall in rust, olive, or clay for an instant sense of depth
• Soft, textural accents like throw blankets, velvet cushions, or woven area rugs
• Natural wood tones that bring balance and organic warmth to modern interiors

Rethink Your Lighting

As daylight fades earlier, lighting becomes the quiet hero of any cozy home. Swap out harsh white bulbs for softer, golden tones that flatter your space and mood.

Try adding:
• Dimmable lighting to create ambiance in living areas
• Layers of light – from sculptural sconces to table lamps with linen shades
• A statement pendant or chandelier to anchor your dining or kitchen space

Thoughtful lighting not only enhances comfort but also highlights your home’s textures, finishes, and personality.

 Add Texture for Instant Warmth

Texture tells a story, one of comfort, craftsmanship, and timeless design. Mixing materials like buttery leather, chunky knits, woven baskets, and tactile fabrics adds depth that feels both elevated and lived-in.

A few simple updates:
• Drape an oversized knit throw over a sofa or armchair
• Mix furniture pieces that combine wood, fabric, and metal
• Replace flat rugs with plush or patterned options for softness underfoot

Focus on Focal Points

Every inviting room has a moment that draws the eye, a statement that anchors the space. Whether it’s a bold piece of art, custom built-in shelving, or a beautifully framed fireplace, these focal points can redefine a room’s atmosphere and purpose.

Create Comfort Zones

Fall invites us to slow down and savor smaller, more intimate spaces. Transform a sunny corner into a reading nook layered with pillows and light, or carve out a cozy seating area near the kitchen for quiet mornings or evening conversations. Intentional design turns ordinary moments into rituals of comfort.

Ready to Bring Warmth Home?

Whether you’re dreaming of a small design refresh or planning a full remodel, the right updates can make your home more welcoming, efficient, and uniquely yours.

For over 50 years, Watts Homes & Construction has helped Michigan homeowners design and build spaces that blend timeless beauty with everyday functionality. Our team combines craftsmanship, design expertise, and a deep understanding of what makes a home feel truly personal.

Let’s make your home your favorite place to be this fall.
Contact Watts Homes & Construction today.

Let’s face it-building your dream home is incredibly exciting, but the journey to the finished product can also feel overwhelming and stressful at times. At Watts Homes & Construction, we’ve been building custom homes, condos, and communities in Greater Kalamazoo for over 50 years. Here are seven of the most common mistakes we see and how to avoid them so your home is as functional, beautiful, and joy-filled as you imagine.

Not Having a Clear Budget (Including Hidden Costs)

 Many homeowners focus their budget on the obvious items like flooring, paint, and fixtures but often overlook hidden costs such as site prep, permits, utility connections, landscaping, and unexpected delays.

How to avoid it:

• Work with your builder early to get a detailed cost estimate.

• Include a buffer (often called a contingency) for unforeseen issues.

• Prioritize what’s essential vs. what’s “nice to have” so you can make informed trade‑offs if you begin to go over budget.

Skipping the Planning & Design Phase

Rushing into construction without fully exploring design options, zoning, or how your lot impacts layout (views, sun, slope, drainage) leads to regrets later. It can also cause change orders, which cost time and money.

How to avoid it:

• Use Watts Homes’ design & build services to review floor plan options.

• Pay attention to lot orientation, natural light, and environmental factors.

• Review plans carefully before breaking ground.

Not Choosing the Right Builder / Contractor Fit

What often goes wrong:

Some builders may not match your vision, budget, or communication style. Others might cut corners, deliver late, or leave you feeling in the dark.

How to avoid it:

• Do your research: look at portfolios, client testimonials, inspections of past builds. With a reputation built on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, Watts Homes ensures your priorities are at the center of every decision. mywattshome.com

• Meet the team: see how responsive and clear their communication is.

• Inquire about how they manage unforeseen challenges-do they have a clear process for handling delays, change orders, and keeping communication open?

Under‑Estimating Time

What often goes wrong:

Many clients assume construction timelines are set in stone, but the reality is that unexpected factors-like weather, permitting delays, supply chain disruptions, or subcontractor scheduling-can cause projects to run over time, leading to added stress and cost.

How to avoid it:

• Build extra time into your schedule.

• Choose a builder like Watts Homes & Construction that has strong project management and transparent communication.

• Keep tabs on critical path tasks and dependencies.

Ignoring Energy Efficiency & Future‑Proofing

What often goes wrong:

Low upfront cost solutions might seem appealing, but energy bills, maintenance, and comfort over time suffer. Also, not planning for changing needs (e.g. aging in place, technology, environmental resilience) means more renovation later.

How to avoid it:

• Pick quality materials – ie insulation, efficient HVAC, & windows with good R‑values.

• Consider sustainable materials and design for things like solar potential and passive heating/cooling.

• Plan ahead: aging in place, wheelchair access, work from home spaces, etc.

Poor or Incomplete Contract & Documentation

What often goes wrong:

When verbal promises go undocumented, change orders lack detail, or warranties aren’t clearly defined, misunderstandings and disputes are almost inevitable.

How to avoid it:

• Get everything in writing: specs, materials, timeline, payment schedule.

• Include what happens if changes are needed (and how much they cost).

• Make sure warranties (both from builder and suppliers) are clear.

Letting Style Over Function (or Overextending)

What often goes wrong:

It’s easy to get caught up in trendy finishes, large open‑spaces, or luxury features that look great- but if the layout doesn’t suit how you live, it can be impractical. Also, going beyond what you can comfortably afford causes a lot of unwanted stress.

How to avoid it:

• Daily routines: where do you spend most time? What traffic flows make sense?

• Balance aesthetics with durability and maintenance.

• Stick to what’s meaningful to you, rather than what’s “in.” Prioritize investments that improve livability and long‑term value.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Building your dream home is a big undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With solid planning, a trustworthy builder, and a realistic understanding of cost, time, and how you live your life, the process can be smooth and deeply rewarding.

At Watts Homes & Construction, we’re committed to making the journey transparent, personal, and high‑quality. If you’re thinking of building a home in the Kalamazoo area (or want to explore custom designs, existing floor plans, or our communities), we’d love to help you avoid these mistakes up front. Let’s make the process simple, reach out for your personalized consultation.

Let’s face it- the summer heat in Michigan can bring high temps and an even higher energy bill. The good news? You don’t have to sweat your electric bill to survive the heat. At Watts Homes and Construction, we know it is important to create a home that stays cool and energy efficient. That’s why we’ve put together our top energy efficiency home tips to lower your cooling costs and to create a more sustainable living space.

Cool Starts At The Core: Smart Insulation

Great insulation is the first step to defend your home against the summer heat. Without it cool air escapes and your HVAC system has to work overtime.

• Focus on the attic, walls and crawl spaces. Heat can seep through every crack which we want to prevent from happening.

• To ensure your home is properly insulated use materials like spray foam, fiberglass or radiant barriers.

• Be sure to also seal gaps around windows, doors and outlets with caulk.

  

Windows: Keep The Heat Outside

Inefficient windows can allow cool air to escape letting warm air into your home.Preventing this uses less energy and your bills remain low.

• Try to go for double or triple-pane windows with low-E coatings to reflect UV rays.

• Add solar film, shades, or insulated drapes for added protection.

• Keep shades/drapes closed during the day to block sun

Smarter Cooling Starts with Smart Thermostats

A smart thermostat lets you take control of your cooling costs without sacrificing comfort.

• Set schedules for when you’re home or away.

• Control temps remotely via app.

• Optimize temperature “zones” for specific areas

Let the Air Flow: Use Fans to Your Advantage

Ceiling fans and natural airflow can take the pressure off your AC system.

• Run fans counterclockwise in summer to create a cooling breeze.

• Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove heat and humidity.

• Open windows in the early morning or late evening for cross-ventilation.

Shade and Landscape for Passive Cooling

Smart shading and landscaping can naturally cool your home, lower inside temps, and reduce energy use.

• Install awnings, pergolas, or shutters on sun-facing windows.

• Plant deciduous trees or tall shrubs for shade on southern or western exposures.

• Use light-colored exterior finishes to reflect, not absorb, heat.

Don’t Forget HVAC Maintenance

Your heating and cooling system can be one of the biggest energy consumers in your home. To keep it running efficiently, schedule professional HVAC servicing twice a year once before the summer heat and again before winter sets in. Signing up for a maintenance contract not only ensures consistent upkeep but also often includes benefits like priority service and discounts. A well-maintained system uses less energy, keeps your home more comfortable, and can even lower your utility bills.

Stay Cool & Save Smarter

Surviving a hot Michigan summer doesn’t mean sky-high energy bills. With the right upgrades and the right builder you can enjoy an energy-efficient home that stays cool, saves money, and works with the season, not against it.

Ready to build or upgrade with energy efficiency in mind?

Contact Watts Homes and Construction today to start designing a home that performs beautifully no matter the forecast.

Tornado Damage

How To Help the Community

Community Resources

Monetary donations can be made to: Community Urgent Relief Fund: https://www.kalfound.org/grants/community-urgent-relief-fund
Disaster Relief Fund: https://unitedforscmi.org/disaster-relief-fund
Upcoming Volunteer Events: Outdoor Cleanup on Saturday, 5/11/24. Meet at Oakland Dr. Park around 8-8:30 am. Wear closed-toed shoes and be prepared to get dirty! End time TBD.

Basic Needs

Emergency Shelter – American Red Cross
Kalamazoo First Assembly of God, 5550 Oakland Dr.

Resource Details: Shelter, meals, access to electricity. Efforts being made to accommodate pets. Please bring a crate if possible. Shelter expected to be in place until no longer necessary. Donations of food and personal items can be made to the church.

Contact Information: 1-800-RED CROSS

Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes

Resource Details: Food pantry serving all of Kalamazoo County

Contact Information: Phone: (269) 343-3663 | Email: info@kzoolf.org | Website: kzoolf.org

Sasha Allaer, Life Coach and Professional Organizer

Resource Details: Free coaching for affected individuals

Contact Information: www.coachsashalouise.com | https://www.facebook.com/sasha.allaer.5  

Support for Animals

Kzoo Cat Cafe – 4221 S Westnedge Ave

Resource Details: Assistance with food/litter. Donations can be dropped off at the cafe

Contact Information: (269) 350-4099

My Best Friends Inn – 10475 N 6th St, Otsego, MI 49078

Resource Details: Temporary boarding for pets displaced by damage

Contact Information: (269) 350-3832 | mybestfriendsinn.com 

Happy Paws Pet Sitting

Resource Details: Assistance with drop-in visits for feeding cats/dogs, clean litter boxes, change water, let dogs outside. Animal transportation to shelters if needed

Contact Information: (269) 290-5393 | https://www.facebook.com/happypawsmattawan/ | www.kalamazoopetsitting.com

Sarah Brinkley

Resource Details: Temporary boarding for chickens that were lost in the storm. 2 x 25 ft pens available

Contact Information: Facebook messenger https://www.facebook.com/Sarah.E.Brinkley/ 

Temporary Storage for Belongings

Midway Storage

24560 Cole Avenue

Two Paws Storage & U-Haul

280 C.R. 665

Wine Country Storage & U-Haul

38656 Red Arrow Hwy

Resource Details: 90 days self-storage with valid ID and proof of address

Contact Information: (269) 532-5322 | https://storepawpaw.com/

Outdoor Clean-Ups

Bear Sign Company

Resource Details: Helping clear signs and clear debris. Providing storage and damage assessments. Will document damage with photos for insurance adjusters

Contact Information: (616) 455-4220 | mitchellc@bearsignco.com | gregg@bearsignco.com | https://www.facebook.com/BearSignCo/ 

Tailored Landscaping

Resource Details: Volunteer cleanup for outdoor areas

Contact Information: https://www.facebook.com/Tailoredscapesllc/

Wood Tech Hardwood Flooring (Daniel)

Resource Details: Volunteer cleanup for outdoor areas

Contact Information: https://www.facebook.com/yourwoodtech

Official Resources from Portage Government

Official Michigan Volunteer Registry

Resource Details: Online application, 15-20 minutes, approval required; database is accessed by government officials in cases of natural disasters or state of emergency

Contact Information: https://mivolunteerregistry.org

Unless you love cleaning and continually working on your home this is not the fun part of home ownership but necessary. We all have busy lives with work, family and friends but our home deserves TLC just as much as the rest of us. With spring alive and well, it is time to get to work on the interior of our home.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors – If you have not changed your smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries during the time change now is the time to do it. Depending upon the age of your home, your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors may be hard wired into the home’s electrical system with a battery backup or they many only operate on batteries. For the safety and peace of mind for your family and pets, make sure they are in working order and the batteries are new. If a detector is faulty replace it right away. Detectors can be found at local hardware and home improvement stores.

Fire extinguishers – You hope to never need to use them but they are a necessary staple in your home. Check the date on your extinguisher to see when it expires. If it is expired purchase a new one and if you do not own one already purchase one ASAP!

Cleaning – Some people love to clean and others despise it. If you love, great, get to work deep cleaning, donate items you no longer want or need and throw away items that do not work. If you do not like cleaning then hire it out. I am sure there are plenty of organizing and cleaning services that would love your business. This is what should be done:

• Clean out & organize all closets
• Clean & organize all bedroom drawers
• Clean out & organize your refrigerator and freezer & all seals
  • Put out from the wall to clean under the refrigerator
  • On the back of your refrigerator is a condenser coil that needs to be cleaned
• Clean the inside of your oven
• Remove food particles from the bottom of your dishwasher/food trap & run the cleaning cycle
• Clean your microwave
• Run the cleaning cycle on your wash machine
• Replace any burnt out light bulbs
• Wipe down all baseboards, trim & window sills
• Dust everything
• Clean the kitchen cabinets inside & out and organize
• Clean & organize your pantry
• Clean the range hood or over the range microwave including the filter
• Clean your disposal by grinding ice cubes & lemons & then run hot water
• Deep clean the bathroom, scrub all tile grout & reseal, clean out cabinets & drawers, wash or replace shower curtain
• Vacuum all floors & wash all hard surface flooring
• Clean the carpets & rugs by a professional or rent a carpet cleaning machine
• Remove cobwebs
• Wash walls
• Clean blinds & curtains
• Vacuum out floor & wall registers
• Polish furniture & accessories

Caulk – Check all doors, windows, base & casing, plumbing fixtures, drains and any exterior penetrations into the home such as pipes or electrical lines to see if anything needs to be caulked.

Paint – Paint any areas that were caulked and need to be painted over. Also, the interior of your home may need a freshening up so paint where needed. If the entire interior of your home needs a new paint job either hire it out or paint one room a month if you are doing it your self so you don’t get overwhelmed.

Attic & Insulation – Somewhere in your home you will have an access panel or door to your attic. It could be located in a closet or hallway. If you are able to get in the attic and walk around, do it. If not at least poke your head in the space to look around. You may want to take photos if you can’t see very well so they can be enlarged on your computer or phone. Look for any issues in the ceiling such as holes, look for mold and also look a how much insulation is in the attic. Depending upon the type of insulation and the thickness you currently have, more insulation may need to be added since it does tend to condense over time.

Appliances – Depending upon the age of your appliances and whether they are still under warranty, you may want to get them services by a professional to keep them running for a long time. By serving appliances, it may extend the life of your appliances and keep from having to purchase new.

Floor drains – Whether your basement is finished or not, you should have a drain in your floor around the furnace area. If you have a humidifier on your furnace the humidifier will drain water into the floor drain. It is wise to pour water down the basement floor drain regularly to disperse the stagnant water in the drain and prevent odors.

Basement – Check the basement for any signs of water intrusions or moisture buildup. Some signs of issues include smells of mold or mildew, water stains or mold. If you find any of these, try to find the source of the issue and fix immediately. Contact a professional contractor by checking with your local Home Builders Association list of members if it is something you cannot handle on your own.

Sump Pump – If you have a sump pump in your basement you need to make sure it is working properly. Clean out any items that may have fallen into the sump pit. Once the pit is clean of debris, pour water into the pit to make sure the pump turns on and pumps the water outside. If it is not working contact a plumber.

Plumbing – Check your plumbing fixtures to make sure everything is in working order. You do not want leaks that can cause major issues if left untreated. Call a plumber if you have any issues you cannot handle.

• Flush all toilets – does the tank and bowl fill up correctly or does it continue to run
• Turn on all faucets (sink & tubs/showers) – does the hot & cold work correctly, dues the stopper hold the water in the sink or tub, does the sink or tub drain correctly, does the faucet drip after it is turned off, are any leaks or cracks in the plumbing fixtures or pipes
• What is the age of your water heater and how is it performing. It may be time to drain the water heater & remove sediment from it.

Chimney – If you have a wood burning fireplace, the chimney should be cleaned regularly to prevent buildup and make sure the flue works properly. Have the chimney inspected by a professional and ask them for their recommendation on how often the chimney should be cleaned which will depend upon your use.

Water Softener & Reverse Osmosis System – Have this system checked by a professional to determine if both are in working order. It may be time to change filters and install more salt.

Repairs – During the winter, you may have noticed items that need repair or replacement but held off for various reasons. Now is the time to correct those items in disrepair and get them fixed properly for the long term and not a band aid and replace those items that should have been replace a while ago. Some of the items may include, new windows, new doors, new roof, electrical repairs, etc.

Remember, if you do not have the time to handle this spring home maintenance list hire people to do it for you. There are plenty of companies that offer a variety of services to tackle this list. If you do not have the money to hire people, enlist anyone that can help you for free or trade services with them. The point is to get this list done and keep your home looking beautiful and working great.

2020 New Home Design Trends – Moving into a new decade!

In 2020 new home design trends seem to reflect a desire for calm. Back in December the Pantone Color Institute proclaimed good old, Classic Blue its color of the year! Color psychology has branded this color family – stable. Maybe you’ve watched too much recent news… Maybe it’s that the smart phone you just bought will be out of date in six months. Whether its politics or planned obsolescence we can all agree we’re living in pretty hectic times. Is it any wonder that the trends we’re looking at for the new year are “soothing?”

Without further ado your trends for 2020 and beyond:

A return to nature: Biophilic Design

Homes in the next few years will seek to bring comfort through the inspiration of nature.

1.  When the world around us gets crazy, sometimes the most basic things give us peace. We will be embracing nature more and more in our homes. Color pallets will trend toward those found sitting on the shore. A walk in the woods could give your home a grounded natural feel too.
2. It won’t just be colors taking their cues from nature. Textures and finishes will have a more realist feel to them as well. Wood beams, trim and moldings will become very popular in the next year and into the coming decade.
3. We’ll see a drive to decorate with house plants. Plants add a lot of color as well as reminding us of spending time outside.
4. Wall paper returns with – you guessed it – nature inspired motifs.
5. Rustic feeling accessories like cane, raffia and grass cloths and rugs will be popular.
6. Terrazzo tile flooring has moved to the forefront of design. It’s natural color and texture work well with biophilic design.
7. Animal prints in fabrics for upholstery to throw pillows has made a strong return.
8. Granite and marble appear to be on their way out. This is due to cost and maintenance. Their replacements tend to lean toward quartz or “fake marble and granite.” It feels natural without being too much work or expense.

A deeper need to connect:

A trend that has been slowly sneaking up on us begins to show in design this year. Staying home. Whether its because finances are tight or just because we just want to be able to hear each other speak, staying in or visiting friends is what we’re doing for entertainment. It’s an idea that’s seems to have some staying power too! New homes will continue to accent this idea with design. Creating spaces with socializing in mind…

1. Patios and decks with plants and grills and eating areas. Features like these have always been popular. Going forward, they will become “Must Have’s”
2. Open concept design continues to have a strong following.
3. Home theater remains a widely requested feature.
4. Cocktail/wet bar areas

Trends are great. At the end of the day, the only real trends you need to concern yourself with are the ones that make your house feel like home to you.

Wishing You A Very Merry Christmas And Happy New Year

From Our Family To You and Yours!

We would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas  –  And a joyous and prosperous new year too!

At this time of year, it’s good to remind ourselves to smile. Life is too short to take oneself too seriously. We sincerely hope you will be able to spend time with family and friends this holiday season. We feel down right blessed to be able to gather around with loved ones and appreciate the joy of being together. Please enjoy our little video. We hope it will add to your holiday spirit!

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The “It Color for 2020”

Behold the color – Classic Blue! The Pantone Color of the year for 2020!

For more information on how Pantone selects the color of the year visit their website:

Pantone.com

It’s a double hosting open house weekend! Don’t miss your opportunity to live in luxury.

We will be hosting open house s in both communities November 17, 2019 from 1 to 4 PM.

See our open house calendar for full details!

Open Houses Calendar

Both of these condominium neighborhoods offer unique styling options:

Hunters Creek Condominiums are attached duplex condos. Many with walk-out lower levels available. This community offers a zero exterior maintenance lifestyle.

Cottage Pointe Condominiums are site condominiums. Site condominiums offer all the privacy of an individual house with the low maintenance of a condominium. They really are the best of both worlds!

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