Bathroom Remodels: 3 Budgets, 3 Bathrooms

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In years past, the bathroom was often considered a utilitarian space – get in, get the job done, get out. Not so much any more! Many consider their bathroom to be a space to unwind or relax—desiring spa-like amenities. If your current bathroom is woefully insufficient and outdated, now may be the time to take inventory of what is out of date or not functioning well.

From soaking tubs to curbless walk-in showers, the remodeling possibilities are endless, albeit sometimes overwhelming. If you are ready to update your bathroom but confused about where to start, how long it will take and how much it will cost, Riverside Construction is ready to help. Our four-step Design Build process takes you step-by-step through the renovation process while ensuring you end up with the bathroom you envisioned all along, delivered on time and on budget.

Speaking of budget, a common question we get from homeowners is how much is this bathroom renovation going to cost? While each project is different—based on size, scope and materials—we’ve outlined three types of bathroom remodels to give you a good idea of the options you have: Basic, “Pull and Replace” and Custom.

The Basic or Cosmetic Bathroom Remodel

If budget is at the top of your list of requirements, a basic bathroom remodel may be the way to go. It’s amazing how simple changes can make your bathroom feel new and fresh again. A basic bathroom remodel typically runs $5,000 to $15,000 and may include:

Use of existing layout – A basic remodel leaves the current layout of the space intact, while replacing easily removed products. For example, a tub remains in the same spot, as well as a replacement sink and toilet. Not moving the plumbing and electrical components keep costs in line with the budget.

Cabinets – The price of cabinets often eats up a large part of a remodel budget. Therefore, a basic bathroom remodel typically involves reusing your existing cabinetry. However, that doesn’t mean you have to live with dated or damaged storage. Fix up any broken cabinets or replace cabinet doors. And new hardware can go a long way in breathing new life into your cabinets.

Flooring – The floor material you choose will have a direct impact on your renovation budget.   Thankfully, there is a wide range of flooring materials on the market that will give you a big bang for your buck. For example, vinyl has come a long way in recent years, you can choose vinyl that looks like real wood or even leather at a fraction of the cost of its “real” counterparts.

Fixtures and Lighting – Does your bathroom faucet and vanity lighting scream 1980’s? New off the shelf faucet and lighting fixtures can make a dramatic statement in your new bathroom without breaking the bank. You could also easily swap out a toilet or sink for an updated look.

Walls – don’t forget color! If you’ve ever painted a room, you know the impact it can have on a space. New wall color and freshly painted millwork can breathe new life into your new bathroom.

 

Mid-Level, “Pull and Replace” Bathroom Remodel

If you’re looking for a step-up from the basic remodel, then a “pull and replace” renovation may be the way to go. A “pull and replace” remodel means that while the layout may stay the same, components like cabinets, countertops, and bathtubs could be pulled out and replaced with higher quality items. Moreover, this type of remodel could include removing an existing wall to open space and allow for new features like additional cabinetry for storage or a larger walk in shower. You may also have the option to add that one special splurge you’ve always wanted – like a soaker tub or heated floors. A “pull and replace” remodel typically runs $15,000 to $35,000 and can include:

New Cabinets/Countertops – As mentioned earlier, cabinets often take up a large part of a renovation budget. A “pull and replace” remodel may include semi-custom cabinets made with higher quality finishes and more intricate door panels for a more refined look and feel. Countertops may also be replaced with any number of higher-end materials like granite or quartz.

Flooring – While a basic remodel may keep the existing flooring or include a slight material upgrade, a “pull and replace” remodel could include new flooring using a wide variety of higher quality materials including travertine, cork, pebble or porcelain tile, to name a few. This adds to the effect of your living space, and can bring a more luxurious feel to your bathroom.

Fixtures and Lighting – A “pull and replace” remodeling budget may allow you just enough extra cash to include higher quality fixtures—ones that not only look nicer, but may also last longer than less expensive, off-the-shelf fixtures. You may opt for a higher end toilet for better flushing capability, a more modern glass enclosed shower or a tiled tub deck for a new custom look. A larger budget can also enable you to become more creative with lighting options, to include dimmers for mood setting or special task lighting for grooming and makeup applications.

Walls – Beyond new paint, you may have the budget for adding interesting borders or accent tiles on the shower stalls and on other walls in the bathroom for a unique look.

  

The Custom Bathroom Remodel

If you have aspirations of gutting your bathroom and starting over from scratch AND budget is not at the top of your priority list, then the custom bathroom remodel is a perfect choice. This may include knocking down an interior or exterior wall to expand the footprint of the space and/or completely relocating and rewiring plumbing and electrical to allow you to place toilets, sinks, showers etc. exactly where you want them. A custom deluxe bathroom remodel can run $25,000 to $75,000 and may include:

Cabinets/Countertops – From solid wood construction, to custom finishes and unique decorative cabinetry touches there is a world of choices at your disposal. When it comes to custom countertop materials, like granite, marble and quartz, your only limit is your imagination!

High-End Flooring and Tile – With a custom remodel, you could choose to incorporate different high-end materials throughout the bathroom to create your own unique custom look. For example, you could select natural stone on the floor that leads to a custom walk-in tiled shower with intricate accent boarders.

Lighting and Quality Fixtures – Varied lighting sources whether task, ambient or mood lighting (think chandelier), and high-end fixtures like rain showers, warming towel racks and touchless faucets, are all examples of what you may find in a custom deluxe bathroom remodel.

Walls – A custom remodel allows you to add detailed features like real wood beadboard, custom molding and custom window treatments to increase “the wow factor” of your new bathroom.

Ready to start remodeling your bathroom? Join us at our Kitchen and Bath Seminar to learn how to successfully remodel your home. We’d love to see you there!

If you can’t make it to the seminar, you can always schedule a conversation with one of our qualified design-build professionals to discuss your home needs, design preferences, timeline and budget. We look forward to meeting with you!

What You Should Know Before Remodeling Your Bathroom

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Although a more closely-knit space, bathrooms are one of the most important rooms in your home. As the saying goes, “good things come in small packages.” If you are considering a bathroom remodel, an affordable, stylish and functional design can make all the difference in your long-term comfort and use of your space.

Follow these helpful tips to ensure your bathroom renovation stands the test of time:

Determine How You and Your Family Uses the Bathroom

Your bathroom is a personal space, unlike any other room in your home. You should take some time to consider how you use your bathroom first. You may be someone that uses their bathroom to quickly shower, shave, brush their teeth and go. Or, you may be like other people who consider their bathroom like an oasis—a place to relax, unwind, light candles and reinvigorate themselves.

Regardless of how you use your bathroom, be sure to get input from all members of your household that use it. How many people use the tub or shower at one time? Do you need more private space for the toilet? How are you currently using the space and will your needs change as you get older?

Perhaps your bathroom is primarily used for your children. If that is the case, you may consider keeping your bathtub, rather than replacing it with a shower. For improved, functional space, you may want to consider building a bank of cabinets for each child to store their personal items.

Is your bathroom particularly cold in the morning chilling you to the bone? You may want to consider heated flooring, or installing a modern towel warmer.

While it is important to plan for all of the functional necessities of your new bathroom, you will also want to take some time to dream big.  Have you always wanted a spa-like bathroom with rain-style showerheads, a no shower enclosure, or bench seating? Or have you coveted the idea of a separate vanity to do your hair and make-up?  Flush out your list of requirements (no pun intended), separating “nice-to-haves” from “must haves” before establishing a budget. Then, value-engineer back, making choices on what features you need and what you can afford.

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Budget Considerations

Speaking of budget, most people have no idea how much a bathroom remodel costs, and, rightly so. There are many variables that have to be considered when planning for one.  Regardless of your budget, size or style requirements, most bathroom remodels fall under these three categories:

Cosmetic Remodel

In most cases, a cosmetic remodel is going to be the most-cost effective approach.  It involves changing certain elements of the bathroom without affecting the original footprint of the space. Essentially, you are giving the bathroom a “refresh” by updating amenities like the sink, fixtures, cabinet hardware, paint, mirrors and lighting. This type of remodel can usually be done in a short amount of time and with little disruption to your life.

Remove and Replace Remodel

This is your mid-range option that requires more labor and materials. Everything in the bathroom is replaced (toilet, sink, shower, flooring, lighting, cabinets, etc.) but every component goes back exactly where it was originally—the footprint of the bathroom remains unchanged. This usually involves removing drywall down to the studs, particularly if there are signs of mold or leakage. With a Remove and Replace remodel, you will end up with a completely new bathroom with minimal disruption to any other area of your home. 

Custom Remodel

The custom remodel is where your “dream list” comes into play. The sky is the limit. You have an opportunity to build your bathroom from scratch customizing the space to meet your needs exactly, limited only by budget. A custom remodel is perfect for someone with a smaller bathroom that needs a lot more space; or a bathroom with a poor original design that is in need of a more functional or visually pleasing design. This renovation option is more time consuming and usually involves renovation in more than one room in your house to accommodate the added space.

In case you’re having a hard time deciding which remodel is right for you, a qualified design/build remodeler like Riverside Construction can guide you through this process and help you determine which option best fits your lifestyle needs and your budget. Please contact us if you think we can help.

 

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Design Style and Functionality

Aw, now the fun begins…starting the process of thinking about what you want your bathroom to look and feel like. As you consider paint colors, tile choices, vanities and fixtures, you can start with one design item that you want to feature in your bathroom and design around it; or piece several design elements together to create your final bathroom design. There are plenty of online resources, such as Pinterest and Houzz, which make this process easy, giving you a multitude of bathroom design options to explore.  

As you narrow your choices, you will not only want to consider who will use your bathroom and how, but how your newly designed bathroom flows with the rest of your home. Consistency is key. You don’t want to add a rustic, farm-style bathroom to a 1950’s-era brick ranch home, for example. Choose from fixtures that provide a variety of style, material and color choices that match the existing design of your home.

 

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Lighting is Key

Adequate lighting is important to have throughout your home, but in the bathroom it is essential. As the bathroom increasingly becomes a place to recharge and relax, lighting requires an extra thought. When it’s done right, the payoff is great. And, you can never go wrong installing sufficient and luxurious bathroom lighting. Consider these three key areas to improve lighting in your bathroom remodel:

Vanity Lighting

Top on the priority list is making sure you have the right lighting above the vanity, used for illuminating your head and face. A common mistake people make is installing recessed ceiling fixtures directly over the mirror, which cast shadows on the face. This makes daily grooming rituals, like shaving and makeup application, more difficult. Instead, vertical fixtures or sconces should be mounted on either side of the mirror to help cast an even light across the face.
Unfortunately, this is not always possible given vanity mirror size and positioning constraints. A Riverside design consultant can help you determine the best lighting placement for you.

Shower/Tub

The shower or tub is often the darkest area of the bathroom, and may require secondary task lighting. If the shower has a clear, glass door, a dedicated fixture may not be necessary. Otherwise there are plenty of moisture resistant recessed lighting options to choose from.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting serves as a substitute for natural light. You can consider a surface-mounted ceiling light, a pendant lamp or even a chandelier. Other options include “cove lighting”, which are rope lights hidden behind a molding dropped several inches below ceiling height – adding a soft glow around the room’s perimeter. Another option is adding a dimmer switch to adjust the mood in your bathroom.

 

Ventilation

Do you love taking long, hot, steamy showers? Did you know that you could be causing irreparable damage to your bathroom? Without proper ventilation, all of that humidity and moisture built-up in your bathroom creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can damage the drywall, flooring, wood framing and even your cabinets.

Thankfully, with proper ventilation, you can enjoy your hot, steamy showers and ensure your bathroom remodel lasts for many years to come. An adequate bathroom exhaust ventilation fan does just the trick. It removes excess moisture, odors and even mold spores that can lead to health problems. Before choosing a ventilation fan, make sure it is large enough to accommodate the size of your bathroom. There are also great fan options that include features like humidity sensors, automatic timers and built-in nightlights.

 

Think Long Term (Universal Design)

Once you decide to remodel your bathroom, it is important to maximize your investment by remodeling with your future in mind. Consider the principles of universal design, which is the design and composition of an environment that can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age, size, ability or disability.  

Whether you are planning to live out your retirement in your home, or eventually sell it, you’ll want to consider universal design principles when remodeling your bathroom. Grab bars, wider doorways, shower seating and non-slip flooring will go a long way towards maximizing your investment.

 

Efficient Use of Space

If you’re like most homeowners, you never have enough storage space. When you’re planning a bathroom remodel, it is a perfect time to design plenty of added storage into your new cabinetry, shelving and even custom nooks.

If your bathroom footprint will remain the same, there are many creative ways to squeeze a little extra storage out of your existing space.

For example, while a pedestal sink may speak to your design sensibilities, choosing a vanity instead provides you with plenty of extra storage.  Adding niches and shelves in the shower create space for your toiletries, while keeping items off of the floor; and installing a medicine cabinet is an easy way to keep beauty supplies off of your countertop.  

For questions about remodeling a bathroom in your home, contact Riverside Construction today!

Take the first step by scheduling an in-home meeting with your very own personal design consultant.

We also schedule complimentary bathroom remodeling seminars regularly each month. Let us know your interest in attending by signing up today.

In-Law Suites, a Sweet Addition to Your Home

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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.

Basement Remodel 2 Basement Remodel Bedroom 4

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!

Basement Remodel Living Room 3 Basement Remodel Bathroom 5

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

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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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?
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.

A GUARANTEED PLAN FOR REMODELING SUCCESS PART II – SEE IT BEFORE YOU BUILD IT

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A Unique Benefit of Design/Build Construction

They say a picture is worth a thousand words and when it comes to your remodeling project. Nothing could be closer to the truth!

Riverside Construction uses a unique process for remodeling called Design/Build.  This remodeling approach offers many unique benefits, particularly greater control and management of the home remodeling process. By providing architectural design, engineering and construction under a single construction agreement, you, as the homeowner, minimize your financial risk by providing a strong level of control over every step.

And while having greater control is critical to your ultimate satisfaction of the finished project, what you really want to know is if your home remodeling project is going to look exactly like you envisioned it. Will you still love it five years from now?

This is where the magic of 3-D design comes into play. As a design/build remodeling firm, Riverside Construction utilizes advanced 3-D design software to help you visualize your home remodel before construction begins. While a floor plan can give you a sense of how the new space will be configured, it doesn’t show you how large the room is or how different aspects of the room fit together. 3-D renderings allow you to move components around and see their special arrangement. You can actually picture yourself walking in the room doing everyday tasks. The power of 3D technology simply allows you to see the space from all angles, effectively illustrating the flow of the space, and trying out colors and textures of material selections like cabinets and fixtures.

3D Rendering Covington After (1)

Want to see what your master bathroom would look like with a large picture window? Not a problem. Want to check out your view from the window? Changed your mind and prefer not to have a window? Done. Want to see what a large island would like in your new kitchen? What about adding a bank of cabinets? All of these questions can be answered using advanced 3-D technology.

3-D design allows you to have a clear picture of your project before construction begins—a true mockup. It is also the best way to review and approve all material costs and selections associated with your remodeling project (to include lighting, appliances, fixtures, cabinetry, countertops, flooring, etc.) before starting construction. You benefit from knowing how much your project will cost, what it will look like and when it will be completed, all before construction begins.

Cibuta 3D VIEW - 06-07-14A (2) After Photo

Riverside Construction’s advanced 3-D design and estimating software, combined with the professional expertise of its design staff, is a winning combination. Our clients benefit from a deep breadth of experience pouring over designs, reviewing plans, listening to clients’ needs and coming up with creative improvements that will sustain a lifetime. As a homeowner, you have the added luxury of seeing what your remodeling project will look like, tied to a realistic budget and timeline. No surprises. No mistakes.

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.

KEY 3 – DESIGN YOUR PERFECT FLOOR PLAN

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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

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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

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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.

HOW TO MAKE SMALL BATHROOMS FEEL LARGER

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Corner bathroom sinkSmall bathrooms can be a big headache for homeowners who want style, storage and functionality. The best way we’ve discovered to make the most of your limited space is to be incredibly intentional about how you use the space.

There are plenty of challenges when designing a small bathroom. Things like ensuring that there is enough clearance space between sinks, toilets and showers define how the majority of your space is laid out. However creative ideas can go a long way towards making your space seem as large and comfortable as possible. We come up with a list of the best design trends for small bathrooms.

1. Install a Corner Sink
Corners of bathrooms are often an overlooked area. Installing the sink in the corner can save a huge amount of floor space and can allow enough floor space between toilets, shower stalls and sinks.

2. Use Clear Materials (Materials that you can see through)
Instead of solid cabinets or visible shower curtains, install cabinets with open shelving and clear glass for shower doors. Both allow the space to feel bigger and more open.

3. Don’t be Afraid of Color
When used in moderation creating a colorful, visual centerpiece for the room draws your eye away for the limitations of the space and provides a welcome focal point for your room.

4. Use a Rounded Vanity
Everyone who has been in a small bathroom quickly becomes aware of where the vanity corners are. Something as simple as installing a rounded vanity and counter can prevent some of those painful bruises.

5. Extend the Countertop
Extra countertop is always useful. In some cases there are ways to extend the counter space in small bathrooms by installing narrow cabinets or even just extra counter space that can be used to store or display items.

6. Install a Recessed Medicine Cabinet
Medicine Cabinets with mirrors continue to be a valuable addition to small bathrooms. Cabinets that are recessed (in the wall) provide you with the much needed storage space along with making the space feel larger.

Being intentional about designing your small bathroom can make all the difference. Making sure you have a good blend of style and flexibility will allow you to enjoy your space without constantly wishing it was bigger. Your bathroom won’t get bigger, but in the end, you can achieve the necessary balance between comfort, size and function. If you have a small bathroom that you need help with feel free to contact us.