Riverside Construction Before and After Home Renovations
Featuring Riverside Construction’s “Designed for Life” Home Transformations in 2017
Whether you’re ready to remodel now or in the near future, tackling a remodel can be an intimidating process. But, seeing a home transform from bland to beautiful is often all the motivation you need to get your project started—particularly as you imagine your own home in these impressive before and after photos. Find your inspiration in these “Designed for Life” transformations we documented in 2017:
Kitchen Renovation
A central island wasn’t working for these homeowners, so we reworked the layout with an L shaped island with seating for two. The dated traditional design was replaced with fresh, sleek cabinetry, granite countertops, and pendant lighting.
Kitchen Renovation
With the help of Riverside Construction, this kitchen went from bland to grand! The kitchen was opened up to a create more efficient workspace, better traffic flow, and improved lighting. Aesthetically, the space was transformed with medium colored Hickory flooring, a honed travertine backsplash with Mosaic tile accents, an undermount Silgranite sink with Hawaii granite countertops, and full overlay cabinet doors in both dark and light colors.
For further design inspiration, view more photos and project details on this West Lafayette Traditional Kitchen Remodel
Kitchen Renovation
This small West Lafayette kitchen received a big renovation! These homeowners wanted to make sure that the remodel matched the Mid-Century style and character of the rest of the home. Riverside Construction knocked down a wall and opened the space so that the homeowners could enjoy abundant natural light and the beautiful view outside their windows. Ensuring the home’s architectural integrity, we used Mid-Century inspired materials that complemented the original wood color and style of the house, taking full advantage of the high ceilings to add more storage.
For further design inspiration, view more photos and project details on this West Lafayette Mid Century Modern Kitchen Remodel
Master Bathroom Shower Renovation
This master bathroom shower was dark and claustrophobic. Riverside Construction opened it up using double glass doors, gorgeous marble tile, brass fixtures and a bench for sitting. Beautiful!
Basement Bathroom Renovation
Riverside Construction added square footage to this small basement bathroom by removing a wall that allowed room for a functional shower designed with clean, crisp subway tile. To complete this transformation, dark gray paint was replaced with lighter tones and a new vanity was laid with gorgeous granite and all new brushed nickel fixtures.
Powder Room Remodel
From pink to perfect, this homeowner wanted their powder room to reflect their unique style preference while blending seamlessly with the architectural style of their home. Mission accomplished!
Basement Food and Beverage Entertainment Center
An old dated wet bar gets a much-needed modern facelift, complete with a beverage cooler, microwave, sink, lots of outlets and plenty of cabinet space.
Mud Room & Laundry Remodel
Whether you have a smaller home, or a large second entryway full of storage potential, one of the most envied, desired rooms in the home is a functional mudroom and/or laundry room. For this busy family, custom, built-in cabinetry was installed to accommodate each family member with plenty of creative storage potential—cubbies, cabinets, hooks for coats, shelves for shoe storage, and benches for seating. And, a bright pop of color on the wall helped to make this laundry room bright and airy.
Basement Kitchenette Addition
An unused space in a basement is transformed into a highly functional kitchenette complete with a refrigerator, microwave, sink and plenty of storage.
If you liked what you saw, be sure to like us on Facebook and check out our regularly scheduled “Before and After” posts throughout the year.
If 2018 is the year that you’re ready to tackle that remodel you’ve been dreaming about, be sure to sign up for one of our complimentary home remodeling seminars to help you get started.
If you’re ready to start a conversation about your own home remodeling project, schedule a no-obligation design consultation today. We will get you well on your way to creating a stunning living space that meets your personal design style, functional needs, and budget requirements. That’s what we do!
Breathtaking Design Ideas for Your Basement Renovation
With the New Year, it’s only natural to feel a renewed impetus for change. It’s the perfect time to channel your energy into that remodeling project you’ve had on the back burner. Kitchen and bathroom remodels are popular, but an unfinished basement? Now THAT’S promising! Think of your unfinished (or partially finished) basement like a blank canvas. Paint in a gym, a studio, an office, or a “man cave” – to name a few ideas – and imagine the endless hours of enjoyment you and your family will find in the finished space. Whatever your downstairs dream room is, the possibilities are practically endless. Here are some exciting ideas that combine fun and function. Scroll down and get those creative juices flowing!
MEDIA ROOM
A Riverside Construction Project
Who doesn’t want a room devoted to kicking back? Whether you have a growing family or you simply enjoy entertaining guests, the basement is an ideal space for a fully loaded media room. With an adjacent half bath and a custom bar or kitchenette for drinks and popcorn, a media room brings a new functionality to your home. Enhance the space with a large screen TV, a custom projector, audio system, plush carpets, and a comfy couch, and your new media room is bound to draw guests and family alike.
ARTS & CRAFTS STUDIO
A Riverside Construction Project
Are you into crafting, sewing or other artistry? Turn your unfinished basement into a large sewing or crafting space with large workspaces, ample task lighting, and plenty of custom storage options. Whatever your hobby, a finished basement provides added function, versatility, and – best of all – designated places for everything you need at hand.
MAN CAVE OR SPORTS ROOM
A Riverside Construction Project
It’s every sports fan’s dream. Heck, it’s every man’s dream. If you drool over a secluded retreat of your own, your dark and dreary basement can make those dreams come true. Remodel your basement into the perfect man cave using hard wood flooring, back lighting, custom bar and beverage refrigerators, shelving for sports memorabilia, granite countertops, and a fireplace – to name a few ideas. The clubhouse days are over, boys. Welcome to the big leagues.
HOME GYM
A Riverside Construction Project
Getting to the gym can be difficult. But with a home fitness studio, there are no excuses. Installing the appropriate flooring for exercising and some custom cubby storage for your gear means you can ditch the excuses and catch a workout at a moment’s notice. Whether you’d rather revel in the added privacy, or invite your friends to hang, you’re guaranteed to reduce the distractions – and the germ count – while still getting in your daily reps.
HOME OFFICE
Courtesy of K. Marshall Design
Working at home doesn’t have to be a drag. On the contrary, remodeling your basement into an inspiring home office is one of the best things you’ll ever do for you. With great task lighting, a built-in desk, bookshelves, and wiring for all of your technology needs, you can work with ease in the comfort of your own home.
GUEST ROOM
Courtesy of Pavel Burmakin
Every house can use an extra bedroom. Whether you have visitors from out of town or just down the street, a guest bedroom is essential. Give your company the luxury escape they crave with great closet space, an adjacent bath, and reading nook in warm, neutral tones that everyone can enjoy. Your guests will thank you for a great night’s sleep in their cozy retreat. Better still, they’ll never guess their ultra-chic sanctuary could ever have been a dark and scary basement!
MUSIC ROOM
Courtesy of Contemporary Basement by Salt Lake City Photographers Lucy Call
Have you recently acquired a resident musician? A renovated basement can provide a much-needed space for jam sessions with plenty of storage for instruments and equipment. Consider designing a basement practice space that preserves the peace with soundproofed walls and flooring.
GAME ROOM
A Riverside Construction Project
Game rooms are great for kids and growing families, providing a convenient space to entertain and hang out. With the essential functionality of a half bathroom, kitchenette, an entertainment center for movies and video games, and a selection of seating areas, a game room means fun for the whole family. Better still, a basement game room can keep you enjoying outdoor sports – even in bad weather. With a miniature indoor sports court complete with the appropriate flooring and padded walls, kids can keep on practicing all year round.
KID’S PLAYROOM
Courtesy of Midcentury Kids by Grand Rapids Interior Designers & Decorators Mindi Freng Designs
Devote your basement remodel to inspiring your little ones with a playroom of their very own. Design custom playhouses and chalkboard walls to keep the magic of early childhood alive. Using pony walls or custom furniture, you can create designated play areas for a variety of activities. Don’t be afraid to use your imagination. Consult your kids, too! In the end, their fairy tale playroom will be your peace of mind.
WINE CELLAR
A Riverside Construction Project
You don’t have to be a connoisseur to appreciate wine, but those in the know will surely covet a custom, built-in temperature-controlled basement repository. What better way to add a touch of class to your home than with a luxurious wine cellar complete with proper storage, display cases, and a seating area? Consider transforming even a small, unused space into the ultimate wine cellar with special touches like rope lighting, unique countertops, and a coffered ceiling.
LAUNDRY ROOM
Courtesy of E/L Studio
Need a better space to do laundry? Consider designing the ultimate laundry room as part of your basement remodel. A well-lighted folding station, a custom drying rack, and a built-in ironing board go a long way to making chores seem less tedious. If your basement has a ground floor entrance, you might even consider an adjacent mudroom or a dog washing station.
IN-LAW SUITE
A Riverside Construction Project
An in-law suite is a separate living space within a larger household. It usually includes a bedroom, a full bathroom, seating area, laundry area, and a kitchenette. Converting your basement into private living quarters is ideal for resident family members in need of a independence – with all the benefits of living just downstairs.
CUSTOM STORAGE
Courtesy of Spacecrafting / Architectural Photography
Courtesy of ACRE Goods and Services
A Riverside Construction Project
At the very least, a basement renovation is the perfect opportunity to enhance your home storage systems. Goodness knows one can always use more practical organizers! From custom built-ins to open shelving, don’t be afraid to utilize every nook and cranny – including under the basement stairwell.
For more specific details on how to finally transform your “empty canvas” basement into your very own masterpiece, check out this article on reclaiming your basement. Then, take the first step toward your new basement space and schedule an in-home meeting with your very own personal design consultant.
Reclaim Your Basement
Is your house starting to feel small? Need additional space in your home? If you are one of many lucky homeowners who own a basement, you have the option to transform an unused or cluttered basement into a large, functional living space. You may even increase your home’s value. Depending on the location of your home, a finished basement (properly remodeled) can add square footage to your home’s “for-sale” listing.
When undertaking a basement remodel, consider these three steps to ensure you are adequately prepared:
1) Evaluate Your Space
Start by assessing the condition of your basement. Do you have any basement obstacles such as low ceilings, excessive moisture, or ventilation issues? Would you need plumbing and electrical added for a kitchen or a bathroom?
Basements often store furnaces, hot water heaters, or HVAC systems and run plumbing lines along the ceiling and down the walls. At Riverside Construction, we are used to helping you navigate these issues, designing a space that fits your functional and lifestyle needs, as well as your budget.
Size
How you use your basement will be determined by its size. A smaller basement (under 700 sq. ft.) may be perfect for adding an efficient and inviting laundry room, complete with large-capacity appliances, a drying rack, utility sink, plenty of countertop space and cabinetry to hide laundry supplies, etc. Or, secure much needed quiet space, cut off from the rest of the home, by designing a new home office or workshop. At minimum, you will need to plan to run electrical wiring for computer equipment, lighting and other office amenities.
An average size basement is roughly 700 to 1,000 sq. ft. If you have a growing family and an average size basement, a playroom may be the best solution for freeing up more living space in the main part of your home.
Obviously, the more space you have to work with, the more options you have. If you have a basement over 1,000 sq. ft., you have the option to create unique space out of an open-plan basement or create “zones”, breaking up a large room into multiple sections (each zone has a specific use, but everything is tied together through a common design style).
Use
A finished basement can add valuable living space to your home—the possibilities are endless. Here are just a few examples of how homeowners are reclaiming their basements:
- Additional Family/Living Space
- Rentable Living Space
- Game/Sports Room
- Media Room/Home Theater
- Kid’s Play Room
- Wine Cellar
- Man (or Woman) Cave
- Exercise/Work Out Room
- Den/Home Office
- Arts & Crafts Room
How will you use your space? A popular trend nowadays is converting a basement to a self-contained living space, complete with it’s own kitchenette, bathroom, bedroom and living area. This is commonly known as an in-law suite and is a fantastic way to add value to your home while catering to your families’ evolving needs.
2) Design your Basement
Once you have decided how you want to use your new basement, you’ll want to design your new space. With very few windows in basements, be sure to include a variety of lighting options to brighten up your space—to include recessed lighting, track lighting or mirror-backed sconces. You’ll also want to incorporate all of the necessary plumbing and electrical work while walls and floors are unfinished.
Basement flooring options vary greatly. Typical options include concrete, carpet, luxury vinyl tile, or laminate. After taking the appropriate measures to level your basement floor, you’ll want to choose flooring that will fit your design style and will survive any basement challenges with moisture or water issues.
Does your basement include unsightly load bearing pillars that can’t be removed? Incorporate them into your basement design by painting them with a contrasting color or covering them with wainscoting or another material. Our interior designers can work with you to select the perfect colors, materials and fixtures, designing a basement that fits your lifestyle and your budget.
3) Make Room for Storage
A basement remodel, no matter the size, is the perfect opportunity to add much needed storage to your home, the kind we never seem to have enough of. Don’t be afraid to utilize every nook and cranny, including under the basement stairwell. Custom built-Ins are always popular as well as open shelving. Consider using open shelving around support beams to minimize clutter.
If you are inspired to reclaim your basement, contact Riverside Construction today! Take the first step by scheduling an in-home meeting with your very own personal design consultant.
In-Law Suites, a Sweet Addition to Your Home
Considering adding an in-law suite to your home? Given the changing landscape of the economy, in-law suites are becoming a popular choice for many homeowners. Particularly, with multigenerational housing increasing as well. Whether you are converting a room, adding a free-standing apartment, or building a bedroom and bath addition, one common attribute is the ground floor accessibility and added sales appeal (generally, in-law suites increase property value).
If you’re like the majority of Americans over the age of 45, you want to continue living in a familiar environment throughout your maturing years. As you think about your parents’ future and those of your in-laws (and even your own), some initial planning can ensure both you and your loved ones are comfortable, independent and safe.
Consider these helpful tips before you build:
1) Location, Location, Location
Decide where to build the in-law suite. You’ll want to assess your home to determine the best possible location. Do you have a garage or enclosed porch that can be converted into a living space? Do you have two bedrooms that can be combined into one, or a basement that can be converted into a separate living area? Or, perhaps you have adequate space to build a room addition?
If a room addition is necessary to accommodate your new in-law suite, you’ll want to make sure that the new space blends seamlessly with your home’s exterior. A design build contractor will work with you to ensure the addition flows with the original architecture of your home.
2) Accommodations
Once you have identified where to add your in-law space, you will need to decide what you want to include in the space and how it should flow. Typical in-law suites include a living room, full kitchen and a separate bedroom and private bathroom with adequate storage in both. Ideally, an in-law suite will also have a separate entrance. In this case, zoning restrictions may come in to play and determine what you can or cannot do. Your design/build contractor will help you navigate this process.
We’ve collected some in-law suite ideas for you on our Pinterest board. Enjoy!
3) Universal Design Principles
When designing an in-law suite, it’s important to incorporate universal design principles, to ensure whoever occupies the space is safe, independent and comfortable for years to come. The National Association of Home Builders defines universal design as “the design of products and environments to be usable to all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation of specialized design.” A universally designed space considers aging-in-place needs, whether you are young or old, short, tall, healthy or ill. These amenities include, but are not limited to:
- No step entries and non-slip floors
- Wider doorways to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers
- Wider hallways (36-42 inches wide)
- Extra floor space
- Easy open, lever door and drawer hardware
- Larger bathrooms with hand-held shower heads and level-entry, curbless showers
- Good lighting to include well-lit outdoor walkways and entrances
- Lower light switches and thermostat controls, within easy reach of the bed.
- Easy access to separate heat and air conditioning controls as well as smoke, fire and carbon monoxide detectors.
For questions about incorporating an in-law suite into your home, contact Riverside Construction today! Take the first step by scheduling an in-home meeting with your very own personal design consultant.
8 Critical Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid
It doesn’t take much to run a home remodeling project over budget. If it’s important to you to keep your savings intact, avoid these common mistakes before construction begins.
We interviewed Riverside Construction’s owner, Andy Haste, to find out what breaks people’s budgets when they remodel their homes. Here are some helpful tips to help you circumvent those errors:
- Changing Your Mind After Construction Has Begun One of the biggest, most costly remodeling mistakes a homeowner can make is making changes after construction begins. One advantage in working with a design/build firm is that every detail is thought through and even previewed, and fixed to a budget, before construction begins.
- Failing to Define Your Project Scope (Not Creating a Master Plan) Every home remodeling project should start with a clear project scope. A professional contractor can help you define your master plan and make sure every detail is accounted for. When meeting for the first time, expect to answer a lot of questions, especially WHY you are remodeling. By flushing out this deeper understanding of your home remodel, a remodeling contractor earns his weight in gold by coming up with creative, cost-effective solutions that you might never have thought of.Other questions you should be prepared to ask are “What are your needs, wants and desires for your new space? What do you love about your home? What don’t you like about your existing space? What is the size of your family? Is it expanding or will you be empty nesters soon? How often do you entertain? Where do you and your family spend most of your time? The more details you can flush out up front, the more precise a professional remodeling contractor can be in coming up with ideal solutions for your new living space.
- Choosing a Contractor Solely on Price Everyone loves to save money! But the old adage “You get what you pay for” is never more true than when you hire a remodeling contractor. Choose a remodeling firm that has a stellar reputation in the industry. Start by asking for referrals and evaluate new companies by reading their online reviews and client testimonials. Some companies even provide direct access to their client survey results. Pay attention to the comments and how issues are handled. Instead of choosing a contractor solely on price, pay close attention to the overall value you will receive. Are they likely to still be in business five years from now when something needs fixing? Do they offer a workmanship warranty, and will follow up on their commitment to stand behind their work?Choosing a contractor shouldn’t be so much about “can they frame a wall or put in a sink”. It should be more about whether or not they have established trust in doing the job you need them to do. Emphasis should be placed on HOW the work is done. Will they protect your home? Will they do what they say they’re going to do? What measures will they put in place to protect your family or pets? Can you reliably trust them to carry out your vision?
- Failing to Create a Realistic Budget One of the key advantages in working with a design/build firm, in particular, is that they can help you determine a realistic budget up-front before construction begins. Make sure you work with a remodeling contractor that listens to your needs, develops a scope of work, and guides you in a design that really fits your budget. No time or money is wasted when you design a budget that you can afford right from the start.
- Taking Too Little Time to Consider Specialty Items The last thing you ever want to experience after spending valuable time and money on a home remodel is regret. “I really wish I’d put in that glass tile I wanted,” or “I’m really disappointed that we didn’t put in quartz countertops,” are statements that a quality contractor will ensure you never say six months or three years after your remodel is complete. Creating a list of ‘must haves’ and ‘nice-to-haves’ is a helpful place to start. A design/build firm will incorporate these items into the design discussion early on, before a conceptual design and budget proposal are presented to you. This allows you to incorporate your needs into your overall plan and specifications right away. Be prepared to address why you want your ‘must have’ items as well. A reputable contractor will want to know WHY you want these items so they can present you with alternative options and steer you in the right direction.
- Not Knowing the Process Going Into Your Remodel Having a clear understanding of the home remodeling process you’re about to embark on is a smart and effective way to alleviate anxiety. You should know approximately how long your project will take, what date it will be done, how your home will be managed and protected (both the construction and non-construction areas), when and how your ideas will be incorporated into the design process, and more. When you are looking for a contractor that is right for you, be sure to get a thorough understanding of their design and construction process.
- Not Being Prepared for the Unexpected Any time you embark on a home remodel, no matter how old your home, you want to go into your remodel with a clear understanding of what to expect. Be prepared for dust and noise, for starters. And, have a plan in place for your pets. Unexpected situations can also rear their ugly head as soon as you start tearing down walls. Whether there is dry rot found behind a soffit or dangerous electrical wiring that needs to be replaced, it is important that you prepare yourself for these types of surprises also. A reputable contractor will be able to set all of these expectations up front and help you set a realistic budget.
- Not Exploring ALL Options for Adding Space in Your Home Don’t want to move, but desperately need additional square footage? One obvious solution is adding a new room addition to your home, but there are other options as well. You can maximize storage and reclaim space by creatively reconfiguring your existing space. Do you have a basement or attic that can be refinished? Do you have a wall that can be knocked down to improve traffic flow? By discussing your needs with a reputable remodeling contractor, you can explore all options that add square footage to your home, without breaking the bank.
Contact Riverside Construction today, for more information. We would love the opportunity to help you with your next remodeling project. Take the first step by scheduling a conversation with a design consultant.
ADDING ON: SHOULD YOU BUILD A HOME ADDITION?
Is your house starting to feel small? Does it lack vital amenities, like a spacious kitchen, which is negatively impacting your family? Perhaps you’ve been thinking about moving, but don’t want to take on the added stress and exorbitant costs associated with such a decision. Not to mention you like your neighborhood, the school district and the amenities that are close to home.
If you’re happy with where you live, perhaps building additional square footage is the right decision for you.
To get started, explore your options
Consult a remodeling professional who can help you explore all of the many possibilities of expanding your house, including alternatives to a major renovation (referenced below).
Building Outward
A true way to “create space” is building out. This new space is unhindered by existing structures and usually pays for itself emotionally and financially. Homeowners don’t typically need to move out during construction.
Building Upward
Arguably better than building out, is building up—“the sky is the limit”. This usually is an expensive undertaking (and often cost prohibitive), but can be worth the investment, and might involve vacating the home for a period of time.
Here are 10 ideas for expanding your house out and up, courtesy of Houzz.
Know what you’re getting into
A successful addition is made to look like it was part of the original structure. It involves everything you would find in new home construction, including the foundation, framing, zoning, permitting, flooring, plumbing, electrical, etc.
It’s also one of the smartest ways you can add space to your home. Adding a new space is like designing a whole new house, but without the expense of a whole new house. But, it’s not something you can take on yourself. Ideally, consult a professional designer who can help you determine the feasibility of your vision, making sure your addition will add the desired value to your home.
Alternatives to a Major Renovation
If your home is too small or in need of a new room, there are alternatives to maximizing your home’s existing space without building more square footage. Here are a few examples of how you can simply reconfigure your home’s existing space, to save time and money:
Finish the Basement or Attic—Turning an attic or basement into a guest room, family room, or home office suite is by far less costly than expanding your home. All you )need to do is build finish details inside the shell.
Remove Wasted Square Footage—Take a look at the original footprint of your house and determine whether it’s feasible to remove a wall, eliminate a closet or reconfigure traffic flow to allow for the extra space you need. Designers are trained to help you discover your homes hidden potential.
Knock Down Walls—Many homeowners today are remodeling with an open floor plan in mind. Open layout floor plans foster family togetherness and provide lots of options for entertaining. By eliminating doorways and removing walls that separate the kitchen, dining room and living room, homeowners can obtain the space they need at a fraction of the cost of an addition.
Repurpose Existing Rooms—If you have rooms in your home that don’t get much use, now is the time to consider repurposing that unused room and turn it into space you can use. Turn that unused living room, for example, into a TV/media room; or convert a storage room into a much-needed home office that doubles as a guest room.
Whether you are considering a room addition or an alternative to an addition, Riverside Construction can help you develop a plan that fits your needs.
For inspiration on how to build a room addition onto your home, visit our design gallery. To schedule a free consultation with one of our designers, call 765.838.1644 or fill out our contact form.
We will also be scheduling a seminar on room additions this Spring. Let us know your interest in attending by signing up today.
KEY 3 – DESIGN YOUR PERFECT FLOOR PLAN
Designing your perfect floor plan is one of the more exciting steps in remodeling your home. But for those of you who struggle with visualizing what it will look like, enlisting the help of someone who has experience designing rooms or experimenting with various layouts may be incredibly helpful.
In the first two keys we recommended defining your objectives and creating a wish list for your project. The next step is exploring how to get help turning your wish list into a functional and visually striking floor plan and how to experiment and think through various layout options.
Getting Help – If your project requires structural changes or is a large scale project, it is wise to seek the professional services of an architect or designer who specializes in kitchens or bathrooms or a company that can help you with your entire process from designing to building. Architect and Designers can both help you design the rooms that you are remodeling, but they won’t do the building for your or be able to provide you with an accurate estimate. Full service contractors, like Riverside Construction, have design/build capabilities in-house which offers a more complete solution. These firms offer both the expertise in the design and construction of the part of the home you are planning to remodel. Choosing someone you are comfortable with who can guide you through this stage is vital to coming up with a floor plan, schedule, and budget that is right for you.
Choose a professional who will tailor a plan that will address your wish list and find ways to incorporate as many items as possible. Work with someone who is willing and experienced enough to recommend different materials and construction options to give you a plan that you can enjoy and afford. Good designers will be creative and provide multiple solutions to accomplish your design objectives. By being flexible you will find ways to create that new “space” that will be just right for you and your family.
Thinking through the Floor Plan – As you begin to think through and review your floor plan, you’ll also want to think through furniture placement, traffic flow, and visual appeal. If you already have a clear vision of the room’s size and shape, you can begin this process now. The easiest way to experiment is by placing barriers and moving furniture in your current space so you have an accurate feel for what the future changes will represent. When that’s not possible, the next best thing is to draw the room to scale on graph paper and add potential furniture to the drawing.
As you experiment, you may notice problem areas or creative opportunities. These are the areas a designer or a company that offers a visual design can help you make the most of. Riverside Construction offers a 3D image or “rendering” of your remodeling project from various angles for just this reason. The rendering allows you to visualize your space which can often highlight changes you want to make. Using the 2D floor plan and the renderings, you can experiment with the placement your furniture, cabinets, windows and doors to get the beautiful space you want. We’ll help you make sure that when new counters, cabinets, and doors are installed, or walls are moved, that the walkways will be to your satisfaction and the room will be a functional, enjoyable room.
A few thoughtful hours invested now with a tape measure can save you a lot of headaches down the road. Altering your design layout once construction has started can add both cost and time to your project. Spend the time to get the feedback of others and to get comfortable with all aspects of the project. You’ll be glad you did.
If you need help with designing a room that is both beautiful and functional we would love to help you. You can contact us for more information. Missed the first two steps in our keys to remodeling with success? Read about the first step in remodeling. Read more about step two.
THE SECOND KEY TO REMODELING WITH SUCCESS
It has been said that the most successful people are goal setters. It is the same with renovation projects. The most successful renovations are those where there is a clear set of goal oriented objectives followed by the priority of items that you would like to see in your newly remodeled space. By clearly establishing the objectives of your remodeling project and the importance that each item carries it will be much easier to communicate your “wish list” to your Contractor. This will have a significant bearing when you are establishing your budget and design options.
The first step to a success in a remodeling project is to prioritize each wish list feature as to how important it is to meeting your overall objective. Put your highest priority item at the top of the list and then rank your other items in the order of importance, realizing that when budget and design considerations are taken into account, the items at the bottom of the list may or may not fit into your budget.
Don’t forget to let all members of the household share their input on the prioritized list and the reasons why each item is important to him or her. Once this step is completed you will have made significant progress toward a sensible plan that will accommodate the wishes and desires of all those involved.
The next step is evaluating which parts of the project will add the value that you desire to your home. Almost all remodeling projects will add value to your home. Not only by increasing your resale value, but just as importantly by increasing the utility and enjoyment you and your family will receive from your investment. According to Remodeling Magazine, a few of the projects that recoup the largest amount of their original costs are kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, enhanced master suites and room additions. These values can vary depending on your home’s location, but regardless of where you live, any decision to remodel your home should be based on both the increased value and the personal satisfaction you will obtain from having new features and comfort added to your home.
If you are in the process of thinking about a remodeling project we are here to help you make your project a success! Please contact us for more information.
THE FIRST KEY TO REMODELING WITH SUCCESS
Each remodeling project should be designed to reflect who you are and how you use your home. The space you are remodeling should have the functionality you need, not just for your lifestyle today, but for as far into the future as you can see.
At Riverside Construction, we believe that as a more informed consumer, the decisions you make will ensure that you will enjoy the benefits for years to come, and potentially save you thousands of dollars in costly mistakes. Our team is here to help you get the most out of every decision. Here is the first key step to a successful remodeling project.
When you consider the space that you’d like to remodel, your emphasis should be on the way you hope to use the new room. You want to spend time considering how the new space should function – including how often it will be used, by who, and what possible wants and needs people might have in the space. Sometimes it’s easier to start with a list of frustrations and limitations of the current space.
Start with Walking Around
Having a general idea of what you want to resolve with your remodeling project is important. Start with walking through your home and making a list of what frustrates you. Be sure to include other family members as you go.
Is the space too small for your growing family or too difficult for an aging loved one to enjoy? Is the outdated style keeping you from entertaining guests? Is the room cold and drafty or does noise travel too easily from one space to another? Are you missing out on a beautiful view or stuck in the kitchen while the family is relaxing in the room around the corner? Are there structural problems as well such as low ceilings, leaky pipes, or creaky floors?
Of course some underlying problems will not be easily visible and will have to be dealt with when they arise. However, by taking into account as many potential factors as possible, you’ll help minimize surprises when it comes time to draw up a time-line and budget
Define your Project Objectives
Once you’ve completed your walk around and started to create a mental image of what you want to improve, the next step is to create your wish list and define your remodeling project objectives.
1. Are you wanting a new look?
2. Are there features of your home that have bothered you over time?
3. If there were no budget constraints, what would your ultimate space look like?
4. How do you see yourself using the remodeled or new space?
5. Do you like to entertain?
Asking yourself these questions can provide significant insight into the features you want and the look of your new kitchen, bathroom, or addition. By compiling a complete “wish list” you can then move to the next step and begin prioritizing your wants and needs in a way that will move you closer to your end goal.
If you are ready to take the next step forward with your remodeling project we would love to help you. You can contact us for more information.
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