As with any big project, a remodel is only as good as the design and the craftsmen doing the work. After almost 50 years in the industry, we have found a few things that we try to address at the beginning of each of our client projects:

1. Get the layout right. It’s not rocket science, but even the most beautiful of spaces will wear on you if the layout hasn’t been planned properly. You need the things you use daily to be easily accessible, but in a functional, attractive way. We walk you through your lifestyle preferences including how you use the space now and how you’d like to after the remodel.
2. Future proof it. We work to help you design not just what works for you today, but also what will work for you in the future. For example, if you have small children they will grow into larger children, so we want to include these inevitabilities in your design plan. We also have attractive and functional suggestions for staying in your home for the long term if that is your plan.
3. Designate storage. Lack of storage options is one of the first ways we get frustrated in our home. If you collect cookbooks, have dedicated shelfing built in your kitchen for them. Love beautiful dishes? Glass front cabinets with lighting can be a great way to feature these treasures. Have a ton of throw blankets? A storage bench at the landing of stairs is a good way to keep them handy without causing clutter. Whatever your storage needs are, we can help you create a custom storage solution that will work for your family.
4. Lighting plan. Poor lighting can kill even the best remodel. Your home’s lighting plan should include natural, ambient, task, and accent lighting. Natural light can be gained from a solatube or skylight, along with optimal window placement. If your home allows, tall ceilings and light-colored paint and décor will also increase the brightness of a room. Ambient lighting is your main source of light, like recessed lights. Task lighting is often found in kitchens – over stoves, countertops, and other areas where specific tasks require optimal light. Finally, accent lighting should be included to highlight favorite pieces of art and other treasures.
5. Choose appropriate finishes. Yes, we want all your spaces to be beautiful, but we also focus on longevity, so we want to make sure you understand the possible pitfalls, if any, of using certain materials. Some countertop materials are porous and require annual sealing, for example, and some flooring materials wear better than others. We look at your specific lifestyle and circumstances and suggest materials that may be the best fit for your needs.