If you’re like most of our clients you’ve spent months, maybe even years dreaming about how remodeling your home will improve your life and bring your family and friends closer together. You’ve gathered up the courage and the funds to finally get started, and your Pinterest board and Houzz Ideabooks are full of inspiration that you can’t wait to share with your designer. You’ve talked to numerous friends and family about their remodeling experiences to get advice, and you’ve met with several remodeling companies that provide the all-in-one service you’re looking for, and narrowed it down the team you trust the most. The days of living in your old space are coming to an end, and you’re finally ready! Your whole family is excited! Let’s go! Let’s go! Let’s go! Let’s get started now!!
Having that sense of urgency is understandable. When we finally gather the courage to take on a huge change, it’s natural to want it to happen quickly – especially when we know it’ll be disruptive and uncomfortable for a little while. The same is true for home remodeling, but unfortunately even the best remodeling companies can’t turn around a renovation in a week. Planning, staging and executing any remodeling project is an involved process with a series of necessary steps before the first hammer ever swings.
Here’s an overview of the design-build remodeling process:
Conceptual and Construction Plans
It all starts with scaled conceptual 3D renderings to establish a general direction towards a final design. After meeting with you in your home to take detailed as-built measurements and listen to your goals for the project, your designer will work with you to present the best layout to meet your specific needs. After a few tweaks, conceptual plans then get converted to detailed construction-ready documents.
Existing Site Evaluations
Remodeling means transforming an existing space, so before estimates can be finalized, a team of trade professionals needs to comb the existing structure to see what will be required to transform it from its current state into your dream home. Plumbers, electricians, HVAC specialists, and structural engineers are just a few of the trades we team up with during this process.
Fixture and Finish Selection
While it is not uncommon for some remodeling companies to present a contract full of allowances for fixtures and finishes, we always prefer to minimize the unknowns by making those decisions well before contract signing. It helps us control the budget and the timeline since we are able to order and stage all materials well in advance, and who doesn’t want to save time and money? Don’t worry, our designers will guide you through the selections process and present materials and finishes that meet your functional and aesthetic needs. We utilize a series of spreadsheets to keep track of everything from cabinetry details to plumbing fixtures, light switch style to countertop edge profiles, because we know firsthand that the details can make or break a project, so we make sure to keep a close eye on them.
Pre-Construction Staging
With a detailed contract and construction plans in place, permits can be applied for, custom materials can be ordered, and crews can be scheduled. One final walk-through with the construction and design team ensures we’re all are on the same page before work begins. This is also the time we discuss detailed information about construction logistics and disruptions (parking, dust control, work hours, debris, etc.), especially if you plan to remain in the home while the project is underway, as most of our clients do.
From the time you choose ReVision Design/Remodeling to the moment the construction begins, we’ll be here to help. Following the necessary steps will take time, but the end result will be well worth the wait!
When you’re ready to schedule a conversation with one of our Project Developers to discuss your project, we’d love to hear from you!
House hunting can be a stressful process. The picture in your head and the picture on the brochure almost never match up, and finding what you need — not to mention, where you need it to be — can be just as much of a challenge. As a list of “must-haves” turns into “maybe-somedays”, you start to realize that with a few adjustments, the house you’re already in could be the one you’ve been searching for all along.
Homeowners seek out additions because they’re custom-designed to fit the everyday needs of their particular household, but it really comes down to location. If you love your neighborhood and school district, remodeling or building on to your existing home can often meet your needs more effectively than relocating. The most common home additions in the Charlotte area include screened porches or sunrooms to increase leisure and family space and master suite additions — particularly in older homes that never had a proper master suite to begin with.
Keep reading to see how we helped these homeowners turn their cramped L-shaped kitchen into a stunning open concept.
Goodbye, Tiny Kitchen
Small and segregated kitchens are common in many older homes, such as this 1950’s ranch. Lifestyles were different then, so plans like this are missing out on the flexibility and casual nature that a more open concept can bring. Since the needs of a growing family often involve maximizing available living space or creating new space altogether, a home remodel or home addition is always top of mind, especially when relocation isn’t desirable.
By bumping out the back wall of the house and converting the small dining room space into what’s now part of the kitchen, we were able to double the width of the new addition. Increased built-in storage, in the way of roll-out shelves and pantry cabinets, made use of some of the existing space, while the light and minimal shaker-style cabinets created even more of that sense of openness that the homeowners hoped for with this kitchen addition.
A light gray, ceramic tile backsplash adds a bit of visual interest that blends well with the rest of the space. Cream walls and increased natural lighting from the newly installed craftsman style windows counter the dark gray island and hardwood floors, to create additional warmth and that sense of depth that was missing from the original kitchen.
Colonial White granite tops off the counter space, providing the client with more than enough space to prepare meals, entertain larger family gatherings, and clean-up afterwards.
Should You Build Up or Out?
While homeowners often debate whether they should build up or out when considering an addition, both are structurally significant endeavors. The most important consideration is the site plan. Building up is usually much more complex than building out. It involves the removal of the roof, the addition of a staircase and therefore the temporary relocation of your family. The only time you’d build-up is if you couldn’t get the desired square footage due to setback restrictions.
Building out does require the sacrifice of at least part of your yard, but more square footage means an increase in the value of your home — especially if you’re adding a bedroom or bathroom. Anytime you’re adding square footage you’re adding framing, foundation work, additional HVAC requirements, electricity, and often plumbing.
These systems are required regardless of the size of your addition, but the first foot is always the most expensive. Due to economies of scale, the larger you go, the less expensive it will be per square foot.
Add-On or Remodel?
A remodel is confined to the existing footprint of a home when adding square footage isn’t necessary or possible. It may be focused on one room such as a kitchen or bath, or it may be a whole home remodel. Adding square footage will increase the value of your home, more so than an updated kitchen or master suite remodel alone. The appropriate level of investment depends on your long-term goals, but we always recommend remodeling or adding-on while you still have time to enjoy the new space before you sell. Not only will the space feel more like home, it will be designed to meet the needs of your family.
There’s no place like home, especially when it feels like new! Check out some of the projects we’ve worked on in the greater Charlotte area, then chat with us about a project consultation.
The first question any homeowner should ask him/herself is: Should I remodel? Figuring out the answer can be more difficult than you might expect. You might be dying to update your house, but that doesn’t mean it makes sense in terms of your family’s lifestyle or budget. And many other considerations come into play. Below are five questions to ask yourself to help you figure out if you need to embark on a remodeling project.
1. Does Your Home Meet Your Needs?
If you’re frustrated with your house, it’s important to consider why. Maybe you want to entertain, but the house doesn’t have good spaces for people to gather. Or maybe you really need a home office. Or perhaps adding a bathroom will add harmony to your family life. Maybe it’s a combination of outdated features: a too small kitchen, a too pink bathroom, and inadequate storage options. Perhaps you simply might need to bring an older house in line with the needs of a contemporary family. If there are many different ways in which the house doesn’t meet your needs, then a remodeling project might be the way to address the problems.
2. What are Your Remodeling Objectives?
Make a list of everything you would like to change, from the size of the kitchen to the color of the walls and the style of the light fixtures. Then prioritize the list. Which things are must-haves and which things can you do without? Before you embark on any planning, you need to have clear goals in mind. Whether you need a more up-to-date kitchen, bigger closets, or a more attractive entryway, you should have specific ideas of what you want to accomplish. If you’re not sure what you want, you’re more likely to end up with a result that’s less than satisfactory.
3. Have You Experienced Any Life Changes?
The answer to this question influences your remodeling decisions in a couple different ways. You might have a new addition to the family—a baby, adult child, or elderly relative. Or you might be anticipating such an addition and need to plan with that contingency in mind. Multi-generational homes are more and more common, making homes more crowded, but remodeling can give everyone more breathing room. Similarly, if you’re retired or planning to retire in this home, you should consider remodeling with the principles of universal design in mind. Universal design can make your home safer and more accessible if you ever experience limited mobility.
4. What’s the Return on Investment?
This is a particularly important question if you’re planning to sell the house in the next five years. You don’t want to invest a lot of money on remodeling projects that don’t increase the value of your house. Do some research to understand the average return for the kind of remodeling project you’re considering. Some projects recoup 75-100% of their costs, depending on the area, while others have a lower return on investment. But don’t get fooled by the size of the project; sometimes small projects can pay off handsomely. Cost vs. value considerations can also impact the choices you make as you plan your remodeling project. You might love the idea of making your home theater hot pink or adding cherry red counters to the kitchen but consider whether those choices might make the house harder to sell.
5. What is Your Budget?
This is a delicate subject. Nobody likes to talk about money but figuring out a budget is an essential part of the process. You need to know what you can realistically afford and what can be achieved on that budget. Research your options—from hardware to appliances to flooring—so you know what you can expect to spend on each item and which things you can afford to splurge on. Remember that a lot of remodeling projects run over budget, so don’t stretch it the max when signing the contract; you’ll probably need a contingency fund. And, when devising a budget, don’t forget the costs of dislocating your family. If you will need to move out of the house, take rent into consideration. If you will lose access to your kitchen for a month or more, remember that it will have an impact on your food budget.
Curb appeal is all about creating that first impression of your home. It tells visitors what kind of people you are and creates a welcoming environment. If you’re trying to sell your house, curb appeal is essential to creating a positive impression.
What Is Curb Appeal?
Curb appeal refers to the visual attractiveness of a property when viewed from the street or sidewalk. It is the first impression that a passerby or potential buyer will have of a home, and is an important factor in the overall value and marketability of a property.
Curb appeal can encompass a wide range of factors, including the appearance and condition of the exterior of the home, the landscaping and hardscaping features, the condition of the driveway and walkways, and the overall cleanliness and upkeep of the property.
Where Did the Term “Curb Appeal” Originate?
The term “curb appeal” is believed to have originated in the United States during the early 1970s, a time when suburban housing developments were becoming increasingly popular. The phrase is derived from the concept of the “curb,” which refers to the edge of the street or sidewalk where a property is located.
The idea of curb appeal was introduced as a way to promote and enhance the visual appeal of homes and encourage people to invest in their properties. The concept quickly caught on and has since become a common term in the real estate industry, with many homeowners and sellers striving to improve the curb appeal of their properties to attract potential buyers and increase their value.
Reasons Curb Appeal Matters
Curb appeal can greatly impact the property’s overall value, attractiveness, and desirability. Here are some key reasons why curb appeal is a big deal:
Increases Property Value
Good curb appeal can significantly increase a property’s value. It’s a smart investment to spend time and money on improving the exterior because it can pay off in the long run. When a property’s exterior is visually appealing and well-maintained, it creates a positive first impression that can greatly influence the perceived value of the property. Homes with good curb appeal often sell for a higher price than similar properties with a less attractive exterior.
Additionally, potential buyers are more likely to make an offer on a property with good curb appeal, which can create a bidding war and drive the price up. A well-landscaped and maintained exterior can also indicate that the property has been well-cared-for, which can give buyers the confidence to invest in the property.
Improves Safety and Security
A property with good curb appeal can also be safer and more secure. A well-maintained exterior, including trimmed shrubs, proper lighting, and visible address numbers, can deter potential burglars and intruders. The presence of outdoor lighting, in particular, can make a property less vulnerable to break-ins by providing visibility at night.
Additionally, the presence of well-maintained landscaping and hardscaping can help prevent accidents and injuries. For example, a clear walkway and a well-maintained driveway can reduce the risk of slip-and-fall accidents.
Moreover, visible address numbers can help emergency responders find a property quickly in the event of an emergency.
Lowers Energy Costs
Landscaping and exterior upgrades can be strategically planned to provide shade during the hot summer months, reducing the need for air conditioning. For example, the addition of a tree or large shrub on the west side of a house can block direct sunlight and reduce the interior temperature by several degrees.
Similarly, a well-insulated and sealed exterior can prevent heat from escaping during the colder months, reducing the need for heating. Properly placed landscaping can also serve as a windbreak, protecting the property from cold winter winds.
Consequences of Bad Curb Appeal
There are several consequences of bad curb appeal for a property.
Firstly, it can negatively impact the overall value of the property, making it less attractive to potential buyers and reducing the amount that sellers can command for it.
Secondly, it can discourage people from even considering the property, as a poor first impression can be difficult to overcome. In some cases, bad curb appeal may even deter potential tenants or renters from leasing the property.
Additionally, if a property is not well-maintained on the outside, it can signal to others that the property may not be well-maintained on the inside as well, potentially leading to further issues down the line.
Finally, poor curb appeal can also reflect poorly on the surrounding neighborhood or community, contributing to a negative perception of the area and further decreasing property values.
Ways to Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal
1. Enhance the Front Door
The front door is the focal point of the front of your house. Make sure it’s appealing. It might just need a coat of paint, but it also might need to be replaced. If it looks dated, you might want to replace it with something more up-to-date or something that fits your home’s architecture. Replacing the front door has one of the highest returns on investment for any home improvement project since it’s easy and relatively inexpensive, but it has a big impact. Don’t forget to address the elements around the front door as well. The right trim can make a front door pop.
2. Focus on the Walkway
Your front walkway is the visitor’s path into your home and can make it feel warmer and more inviting. If parts are cracked or broken — or weeds are growing through — you should repair or replace it. Consider alternatives to straight concrete paths. A brick or stone path with some curves adds visual interest, or you can edge an existing walkway with brick or stone.
3. Add Landscaping
Homes without landscaping can look bare and forbidding. The right landscaping can soften the straight edges of your house and make it more inviting. Don’t limit yourself to landscaping near the house either; you can add a bed of flowers or plantings anywhere in the yard. Be sure to take a critical look at your existing landscaping as well. Maybe you need to replace some overgrown bushes or do some basic weeding and pruning. You might want to sharpen up the borders of your planting beds or add concrete borders. You can also consider adding some decorative elements such as a sculpture, birdbath, or fountain.
4. Install a Portico
If your doorway is flush with the front of the house, it may give a bland, one-dimensional appearance from the street. Similarly, if you have a recessed doorway, the entrance can feel hidden in shadows. Adding a portico will give depth and character to the front of your home but be sure to choose a portico style that harmonizes with your home’s architecture. An added benefit of a portico is that it can keep you—and your visitors—dry as you enter the house.
5. Give Your House a Facelift
This can be as simple as a new coat of paint, or it could include new trim, different finishes on the home’s exterior, new siding, fresh shingles, and adding shutters. While you’re at it, think about whether you want to replace your exterior light fixtures. Maybe it’s time that your lamppost and entrance lights look more up-to-date. Consider adding a splash of color with a bold new shade for your front door, a bed of colorful new flowers, or some eye-catching porch furniture.
6. Do Your Maintenance
You don’t want visitors’ first impressions to be that you neglect your house. Putting off maintenance can reduce your home’s value. Here are some things to look for:
Peeling paint
Cracks in the driveway
Sagging, detached gutters
Cracked windows
Unkempt landscaping
Crooked or broken shutters
Bare or brown patches in the lawn
7. Don’t Forget These Details:
Lighting: For the sake of security and to beautify the house at night make sure you have lighting in the right places.
Stone choice: The stone in your walkways, planters, etc. should harmonize with any stone on the façade on your house.
House numbers: Make sure your house numbers are visible from the street and that the style harmonizes with your home’s design.
Mailbox: You can elevate your home’s look at a relatively low cost with a fancy die-cast or painted mailbox.
Clean the House: Washing the windows, siding, porch, garage doors, and walkway can make your house look newer and more appealing.
Trying to add some curb appeal to your home? Schedule a complimentary consultation with us today! Our designers can go over ideas, big and small, to transform the look of your home’s exterior.
The internet is full of checklists of potential mistakes you can make when remodeling and articles about what to avoid. But what are the things homeowners should be striving for? What are the characteristics of a well-thought-out and high-quality remodel? Here are some signs to look for, whether you’re evaluating someone else’s remodeling project or planning your own:
1. Harmonizing with the home’s style
Whatever the style of your existing home, the remodeling project should fit into it. If your home’s design is traditional, you don’t want to do an ultra-modern remodel. If you chose a craftsman-style house, you probably like that architectural style so a good remodeling project will have the same craftsman elements. It’s particularly important to keep the style in mind if you’re doing exterior remodeling. Whether you’re adding a portico or a two-story addition, the project’s style needs to work with the rest of the house—in addition to fitting into the architecture in the neighborhood.
2. Up-to-date but not too trendy
One of the major reasons homeowners remodel is to make their home’s design more up-to-date and functional for today’s lifestyles. For example, homeowners might be replacing dark paneling, shag rugs, and pink bathrooms with light-colored walls, hardwood floors, and neutral tiles. Design choices in line with contemporary tastes ensure that the project will add to your home’s value. However, you don’t want to the design to become too trendy. That bright blue countertop might look great in the kitchen showroom, but will it look outdated in five or ten years when you’re trying to sell the house?
3. High-quality materials
One of the hallmarks of a good remodeling job is the use of high-quality materials—which impact both the appearance and the functioning of the house. Cheap cabinets look…well, cheap. And they won’t stand the test of time as well as ones that are well made. They are also less likely to come with pull-out shelves, lazy susans, and other conveniences that a lot of today’s homeowner’s treasure. Similarly, you might be tempted to save money on windows, which can be a big remodeling expense. But investing in high-quality windows can save you money on energy costs and can really improve the appearance of your home—from the inside and the outside. Invest your money wisely. Good designs prioritize high-value design elements like hardwood floors rather than putting a lot of the budget into a fancy chandelier.
4. Spaciousness.
Many homeowners want to remodel to add space to their home—whether by reconfiguring the existing floorplan or by adding an addition. Your designer should be considering how to remodel your home without making any part of it feel cramped or overly cozy. Even when doing a relatively modest remodeling project, you should consider how roomy the newly designed space will feel. This is particularly true in high-traffic areas: wide doorways and halls can make your home feel more comfortable. A good design will consider how to open up the existing space: taking down walls, raising ceilings, enlarging windows, and using many other tricks to create a sense of spaciousness.
5. Letting in the Light.
Lighting can completely change the feeling and ambiance of your home, so a good remodeling project will take light into careful consideration. Designs should consider the house’s position vis a vis the sun and place windows accordingly. More natural light makes a space feel roomier and more pleasant, and so you may want a design that maximizes windows and skylights—at least in the public areas. But don’t neglect artificial lighting. Too often remodeling projects place electric lights as an afterthought, but they should be an integral part of the plan. If you’re remodeling a kitchen, for example, you will probably want overhead, task, and under cabinet lighting in different locations.
Considering a remodeling project and want to know you’re getting unparalleled quality and craftsmanship in the Charlotte area? Get in touch with us today.
Considering a remodeling project and want to know you’re getting unparalleled quality and craftsmanship in the Charlotte area?