How To Plan For A Remodel

DETERMINING YOUR SCOPE OF WORK

The first step in your remodel journey is determining the path you wish to take.

• Determine the Impacted Areas
  • As an example, let us say that you have decided to remodel your kitchen. Within that remodel you plan to remove a wall separating the kitchen from the living room to create a more open feel. With the wall removal your kitchen remodel will now include replacing the floor in both the living room and the kitchen or, at a minimum, repairing the flooring gap between the two. The ceiling will also have to be repaired, and it will need to be painted in both rooms.
• List of Wants and Needs
  • I want a farm sink, quartz countertops, and new pendant lights.
  • I need more storage and double ovens.

While we understand that remodeling is likely not your profession, thinking through your intended scope of work, prior to meeting with us, will help you to not feel overwhelmed. Having a realistic scope of work in mind will also help you when determining your budget.

INSPIRATION

Get inspired. Inspiration can take many forms, color, texture, functionality, a feeling you want imparted. Even knowing what you do not want can be incredibly helpful. Knowing your dislikes allows us to narrow the field of ideas.

For many people, this part of the process can become overwhelming. Fear not, it is our job to distill your inspirations down into a design you will love. All we ask is, if possible, that you provide us with as much inspiration as you can muster.

Great sources for inspiration:

• Magazines
• Pinterest & Houzz – start a board and share it with us. Be sure to indicate what it is that you liked about each pin. Let us know, “love the backsplash,” or “great paint color.”
• Art you Love – the art you like says a lot about your aesthetic
• Nature – filled with colors and textures, mother nature is always a great source of inspiration

BUDGET

Things to consider when determining your budget:

• How much money can you afford to spend on this project?
• How much is this project worth to you?
• Will you pay cash for the project or will you require financing?
  • Look into financing options.

EDUCATION

We will always work to educate you throughout the process, guiding you in the direction that will serve you best. However, a bit of foundational knowledge, before you enter the fray, is always helpful. With that in mind, if you are considering a kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, or mudroom remodel, you may also want to take a look at my previous Cabinetry 101 and Cabinetry 201 posts.

Some Possible Areas of Enlightenment:

• What are the current trends in the area that I am remodeling?
• What have other people said worked and did not work for them?
• How will this remodel improve my quality of life?
• What products are available to me?
  • Cabinetry
  • Plumbing Fixtures
  • Siding
  • Doors
  • Windows
  • Flooring
• Determine impact of construction on you, your pets, and your family
  • Where can I set up a temporary “kitchen” during construction?
  • Will I need to sequester my pet in another part of the house while work is going on?

You do not need to become an expert in these areas, that is what we are here for. However, the more knowledge you are able to amass, the more informed your decisions will be.