Tag Archives: renovation

How To Organize A Successful Home Renovation

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Beginning a home renovation is thrilling yet daunting, demanding careful planning at every turn. Note that a successful renovation primarily depends on meticulous planning and organization. Here is a step-by-step comprehensive guide that will explore all the essential aspects of planning and organizing a home renovation or remodel.

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1. Create a Realistic Budget

The first step of any home renovation is establishing a realistic budget and organizing your finances. Gain an accurate picture by talking to contractors to know how much money will go into it. Make sure to avoid financial strain that may pose stress in the long run. Know the cost of labor, materials, contingencies, and unexpected plumbing and electrical expenses.

2. Get Inspired

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After establishing your renovation budget, make sure to go through design magazines and social media platforms such as Instagram and Pinterest for inspiring home projects. Take into account your house’s architectural style, be it traditional Victorian, modern, or contemporary, and draw inspiration accordingly.

3. Develop a Renovation Plan

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For significant renovations, it is important to create a comprehensive roadmap. Start by listing areas to update, and prioritizing projects based on urgency and season. The steps include drafting a preliminary design, setting a realistic timeline, discussing plans with a contractor, and remaining flexible to address unexpected obstacles. Make a note that your project plan should also comprise a list of tasks you can do yourself and those you intend to hire a professional for.

4. Collaborate with an Architect

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Careful planning and design are essential to prevent unexpected changes that may raise costs and extend the project duration. Collaborate with an architect or designer to develop comprehensive plans and drawings. This process enables you to envision the outcome, make well-informed choices, and receive precise cost estimates from contractors.

5. Appoint a Reliable Contractor

When choosing a contractor, never say yes to the first bid or the lowest bid. Obtain at least three bids, review contracts thoroughly, and ensure the contractor has liability and worker’s compensation insurance. This will surely help you to compare costs, and assess the skills and professionalism of the contractors.

6. Secure Permits

Before beginning major renovations, ensure you secure the necessary approvals and permits from local authorities. Failing to obtain these permits can lead to fines or project delays. Additionally, research your area’s building codes and zoning regulations to understand what is permissible. This step is crucial to ensure that your renovation complies with legal standards. Collaborate with your architect, designer, or contractor to grasp the specific permits and approvals needed for your project. With their expertise in local regulations, they can assist you in navigating the process and preparing the necessary documentation for permit applications.

7. Create a Timeline for Your Project

Once your budget and team are in place, establish a timeline. Choose a start date and work backward if you have a completion deadline. Collaborate with contractors to determine task durations and sequencing. Ensure your timeline includes clearing the project area, material delivery, contractor breaks, and buffers for unexpected issues.

8. Phase-wise Renovation

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Dividing your renovation into stages enhances cost and time management. Start with critical phases like structural work or major installations to prevent delays from unexpected issues during these crucial stages.

9. Explore DIY Opportunities

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Assess your skills and the project’s complexity to determine if you can handle certain tasks yourself. DIY endeavors, particularly for simpler tasks such as painting, landscaping, or minor repairs, can help in reducing costs.

10. Communicate

For successful home renovations, maintain regular communication with contractors. Set a plan for project updates and request immediate notification of any issues. Schedule walkthroughs to ensure specifications are met but avoid micromanaging.

11. Unforeseen Challenges

Prepare for challenges that may arise during your remodeling project by allocating a budget cushion and adding extra days to your timeline. Even the most detailed plans can encounter unexpected issues, but taking a proactive approach can help minimize stress and expenses. Keep in mind common renovation challenges such as foundation cracks, water damage, and outdated electrical work, and address them promptly with professional assistance to ensure the smooth progress of your project.

12. Step-by-Step Checklist for Renovation

Dividing your renovation into phases can improve cost and time management. Begin by prioritizing essential phases, like structural work or major installations, to address first. This approach helps avoid delays resulting from unforeseen issues that may arise during these critical stages.

• Planning and Design

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The first step is planning and design, where it is important to collaborate with your designer and builder to convey your requirements, obtain permits, and finalize drawings, layout, and any changes in walls, if necessary.

• Demolition and Reconstruction

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Demolition may involve tearing down walls and removing everything except key structural elements and exterior walls. The extent of this phase depends on your plan, ranging from extensive rebuilding to merely framing a few new walls.

• HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing

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This step includes elements and typically runs concurrently with rebuilding and framing. Anything that needs to go inside floors, walls, or ceilings will be completed in this step. It could include some minor plumbing and electrical adjustments or be a full rewiring or replumbing of your home.

• Walls

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After reframing and rebuilding, with all mechanicals and insulation in place, drywall is installed. It’s taped, mudded, dried, and sanded for smoothness. Then, the walls are ready for primer, paint, or other finishes. Many contractors prefer painting now to avoid drips or overspray on final touches.

• Window Installation

Installing windows is a crucial aspect of home renovation. While some may attempt DIY installation, it’s important to note that this could void the manufacturer’s warranty. Review warranty requirements carefully and consider professional installation to safeguard the warranty and prevent future issues.

• Flooring

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If you choose wooden flooring, it’s best to wait until the painting is done and dust settles before installing it. For tiles, you can install them before the painting starts. Keep in mind that laminate, solid hardwood, engineered wood, or carpet are suitable for living and bedroom spaces, while vinyl, tile, or marble are better options for bathrooms and kitchens.

• Install the Cabinets

The last step is putting in the kitchen cabinets, finishing up the kitchen, and making a big improvement to the entire space, so you can see how it’s all coming together. Install the kitchen appliances and make sure that there are adequate plug points for each appliance.

• Finishing Works

DIY tasks like painting walls, hanging wallpaper, and staining trim are common for homeowners. It’s best to schedule these tasks towards the end of the renovation to avoid damage. Deciding whether to paint before or after flooring installation requires careful planning to prevent mishaps.

• Exterior Paint

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As the interior of the house nears completion it is time to pay attention to the exteriors. With most of the house finished, it’s now safe to install gutters and siding alongside the external paint.

In conclusion, efficiently managing time and costs during a home renovation demands thorough planning, effective communication, and precise execution. By setting clear goals, establishing a realistic budget, and adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a successful renovation.

The post How To Organize A Successful Home Renovation first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Renovation Mistakes You Must Always Avoid

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A home renovation is always exciting in the beginning as it allows the homeowner to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the space. However, before starting any renovation project, one must clearly envision what one wants to achieve. If there is a lack of proper planning, the design and execution of the project can become challenging and transform into a stressful and overwhelming process. Follow this guide to avoid making costly mistakes while refurbishing your home.

1. Choosing The Cheapest Contractor

  • Carefully choose your contractor and remodeling team by considering factors like skill, experience, reputation, and workmanship. Do check their record in terms of timely deliverables.
  • Take a quotation from at least three reputable contractors, and avoid getting tempted to go with the lowest quotation to save money. Note that some contractors will give a cheap quote to get the job and then may provide substandard workmanship and compromise on the quality of products. Keep in mind that efficient labor is comparatively expensive, but they complete the job faster with a flawless finish.
  • Communication is the key, so choose a contractor with proper skills and good reviews. The contractor should understand your vision and deliver accordingly. Create a contract and ensure that it includes all the specifications of the raw materials and a proper working schedule with realistic timelines.
  • If it’s a large-scale renovation, consulting a pro and hiring the right professionals for the job is highly recommended. Additionally, elaborate home renovations are complex and technical, so avoid taking the DIY route.

Designer: Alexander Paar

2. Insufficient Budget

  • Create a realistic budget before starting the project and make provision for an additional budget of 15% to 20% for contingencies or unforeseen expenses.
  • Divide the project into different zones and focus on one area at a time. Prioritize the zones where you would like to spend generously and those areas where you would want to stick to a minimalistic budget.

Designer: DEKORAMA

3. Not Paying Attention To Crucial Issues

  • When renovating an older property, thoroughly check the building for any pre-structural problems. Inspect the building for wall cracks, broken plumbing lines, dampness, and faulty electrical wiring.
  • Structural damages might be caused due to water seepage, and repair work is needed.
  • Make provision for adequate electrical points as per the furniture layout.

Designer: unser.neubauglueck

4. Going For A Timeless Design

  • Consider a timeless design, as trendy designs often change over time. If you want to incorporate the latest décor trends, bring it in the wall paint, upholstery, and accessories so that they are easy to replace.
  • Prioritize function over form instead of focusing on cosmetic and aesthetic changes only.

5. Buying Cheap Materials

  • Compromising the quality of materials is one of the biggest mistakes most homeowners make. Do not cut corners when selecting flooring, plumbing, electricals, sanitary fixtures, doors, windows, hinges, and kitchen cabinetry, as they are permanent. Invest in loose pieces of furniture during the fag end of the project or at a later stage.
  • Note that premium quality materials can be expensive but highly durable and long-lasting. If one has a limited budget, it is advisable to control the scale of the project instead of buying cheap quality materials.

Designer: Fat Shack Vintage

6. Improper Lighting

  • Incorporate a well-designed lighting plan so that each area can perform any task that is done in that particular space.
  • Create a layered lighting scheme with ambient, task, and accent lighting to improve the overall lighting of the home so that there are no dark patches in the house.
  • A combination of ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting can ensure proper illumination and create a well-designed lighting scheme.
  • Ambient lighting forms the first layer of lighting that takes care of the general illumination of the space. It is a fusion of natural and overhead lighting that lets one see the surroundings.
  • Task lighting allows one to perform specific tasks like reading, cooking, studying, applying make-up, and studying. This type of lighting eliminates shadows, does not produce glare, and is used to illuminate the countertops, desks, and reading nooks.
  • Accent lighting provides focused lighting and is strategically positioned to highlight architectural features, artwork, wall décor, and photos. It can also be used to illuminate dark corners without adequate ambient lighting.

Designer: Tom Raffield

7. Poor Planning

  • The space planning should be good with proper furniture layout and circulation pattern so that you don’t bump into the furniture. In addition, there should be adequate provision for ventilation. If you plan to make any civil changes in the layout of the space, hire a professional engineer who can advise on what changes can be made. Bring in a professional at the start of the project and not after the renovation work has started. A professional designer will cost you 10 to 20 percent of an additional cost, but they have a trained eye to assess things; they should come in during the project’s planning stage.
  • Pay attention to the layout of the kitchen. Divide the kitchen into different zones and mark the sink, hob, and refrigerator position. Select the appliances and make provision for the electric points.
  • Whether buying furniture, ordering flooring, or wall paint, always measure the space at least twice and make only a few changes.
  • There should be adequate built-in and closed storage for a well-organized, clutter-free look.
  • Once the layout is final, adhere to it, as any change may result in delays and extra costs and can push back the proposed timeline.

Designer: Waves Design

8. Not Investing In Energy-Efficient Solutions

  • Invest in green appliances that are available across different budgets. It not only helps reduce the home’s eco-footprint but also helps reduce the home’s running costs and electricity bills in the long run.
  • For example, go for faucets and fixtures that can improve water efficiency, install solar panels to generate electricity, and insulate the home to prevent heat gain and loss within the interiors.

Designer: Studiotoff

9. Picking The Wrong Design Elements

  • Choose windows that suit the architectural and interior style of the home.
  • The space should be well-designed, and the décor should abide by a traditional, modern, or transitional design style.
  • Wait to buy the furniture, accessories, and decorative light fixtures. It is advisable to purchase these items during the completion stage of the project so that one does not land up buying products that do not fit. When selecting furniture, ensure that they are according to the scale and proportion of the space.

Designer: Hanna Hakansson

10. Not Giving It Time

  • A successful renovation requires adequate time, so never try to speed up the renovation project as it may compromise design and workmanship, and one may miss the essential details.
  • Create a proper timeline, as remodeling and renovation usually result in chaos and go differently than planned. A material schedule will ensure that the raw materials are purchased and come on-site on time.
  • In any renovation, a dedicated team of designers, contractors, and vendors work together and are codependent on each other. There should be good cooperation within the team and proper workflow; otherwise, it will result in unnecessary delays.

As a renovation project can be a nightmare, these tried and tested tips can surely make the process easier. Once you avoid making these design mistakes, the renovation can transform into a joyful experience.

The post 10 Renovation Mistakes You Must Always Avoid first appeared on Yanko Design.

Bosnian man builds a spinning home for his wife that can complete a full rotation in only 22 seconds!

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In the town of Srbac, Bosnia, a 72-year-old man transformed his family home into a rotating duplex for his son, daughter-in-law, and beloved wife.

We do what we can for the ones we love. Some might surprise their partner with a romantic holiday, let a friend borrow their car, or cover the tab at a boozy brunch. In Bosnia, a 72-year-old man named Vojin Kusic built a rotating home for his wife, ljubica, following her wish for both their bedroom and living room to face the sun. Some of us do what we can, and then some.

From inside their rotating home, the couple is gently woken up by the sun over fertile grasslands in the morning. Then, come high afternoon while sitting in the living room, the Kusic’s are warmed by natural sunlight and positioned in the ideal spot to keep an eye on who’s coming to visit them. Borrowing electric motors and wheels from an old military transport vehicle, Vojin Kusic built the rotating home with his own two hands.

When Vojin built his family’s first home, he oriented it so that his and his wife’s bedroom faced the sun, but as the years went by, the Vusics realized their need to supervise the driveway from their living room. This realization gave way to their spinning house. Spinning on a 7-meter axis, at its slowest speed, Vojin’s home completes a rotation in 24 hours and at its fastest, the home can turn around in 22 seconds.

Remodeling their family home served more than the purpose of fulfilling ljubica’s wish, as Vojin transformed the home’s topmost level into a loft for his son and wife to live, while the downstairs remained reserved for the parents. While the renovation required a lot of manual labor and electrical rewiring, the rotating feature was inspired and designed all by Vojin’s natural wit.

Designer: Vojin Kusic

The bookshelf integrating seating nooks makes this renovated basement the ideal summer escape!

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As a kid, you either wanna be the one with the coolest basement in school or be friends with the person who has the coolest basement. Manhattan-based architecture and design studio Eisner Design renovated a family’s basement into a private miniature theme park for their kids, complete with adult-only theme parks in the form of a wine bar. The basement in Water Mill, New York is the ideal summertime destination for kids and adults alike, equipped with everything from a wine bar to a rock climbing wall and foam pit.

Eisner Design’s renovation pads the children’s basement playscape with cushioning from the floor to the ceiling to ensure rowdy and safe play. From the bookshelf to the tree swings, the designers at Eisner envisioned kids’ imagination and brought it to life. Stenciled between cubbies and bookshelves, Eisner Design lodged cushioned seats that work as hideouts tucked away from the action for when playtime gets too tiring. One shaped into a perfect circle and the other forming the shape of a lima bean, the new seating nooks offer kids their own midday nap destination, à la mom and dad. Rooted just in front of the seating nooks, a modular, cushioned playground is stationed next to an indoor tree trunk that can be used for climbing or as a base during games of tag.

Beyond the colorful resting nooks and modular playground, the basement once again assumes its minimalist optic white color scheme and introduces the basement’s hammock tree, constructed from a steel, columnar base and cloth seated hammock beds. Then, tucked away in the basement’s corners, an upholstered low-rise wall forms the pool of a foam pit where kids can plummet into after climbing to the top of the basement’s rock climbing wall or hanging from its monkey bars.

Since basements are the spot for sleepovers, Eisner Design equipped it with PlayPlace-approved sleeping accommodations, providing netted bunk beds located next to the basement’s indoor basketball net. Of course, while the kids are playing, adults can enjoy the basement’s integrated wine bar, complete with white Caesarstone countertops where you can enjoy a beverage you couldn’t get at McDonald’s PlayPlace.

Designer: Eisner Design

A modular cushioned playground gives the newly renovated a safe place for kids to get rowdy and escape the heat of the summertime.

Integrated seated nooks provide kids with their own naptime escapes just like mom and dad.

Cushioned window seating create nooks with outdoor views throughout the basement.

A basketball net stationed next to the basement’s netted bunk beds gives the sleeping area a playful touch.

Just beyond the modular playground, a hammock tree, and foam pit bring this basement to the next level.

An integrated wine bar for mom and dad provides the adults with entertainment that McDonald’s can’t.

The rock climbing wall is stationed atop a foam pit for kids to fall into after falling either from the climbing wall or overhead monkey bars.

Google Maps updates streetview for New Orleans, reminds us the jazz plays on

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Google Maps updates street view for New Orleans, shows us the jazz plays on

In many ways, Google's Streetview is a document. A snapshot in time. Usually, this amounts to pictures of a sunny clear day in downtown Localsville, but it can also be a reminder of times less bright. Since Hurricane Katrina, the city has been working hard to rebuild neighborhoods and communities, and better prepare itself for the future. Today -- via Google's Lat Long Blog -- Mayor Mitch Landrieu proudly announced that Streetview has been updated to reflect those efforts, and show New Orleans in that familiar, sunny way. Whether it's Congo Square ("the birthplace of jazz"), the city's parks, or more recent features and attractions, Landrieu proudly extends an invite to all of us to come take a look, enjoy the virtual tour, and "whet our appetite." We say put the Gumbo on.

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Google Maps updates streetview for New Orleans, reminds us the jazz plays on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 07:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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