A well lit home provides a thoughtfully designed mix of natural and artificial light. Effective lighting can provide not only illumination but also accents and drama. Your lighting needs in the evening will be different than in the day. For daytime lighting, windows and skylights add a brightness ... Read More about Lighting and Remodeling
Kitchen Designs
First off, have your kitchen designed professionally. The design is a small fraction of the cost and can make all the difference. All the professional craftsmen in the world can't make a poor design functional no matter how beautiful the granite or how amazing the convection oven. A good designer ... Read More about Kitchen Designs
Sink Options
Three of the most popular types of sink material are stainless steel, enameled cast iron and solid surface. Stainless steel is the most durable and comes in a wide range of styles and prices. It's more heat resistant than cast iron and can't chip or shatter. The downside of stainless steel is that ... Read More about Sink Options
A Living Kitchen
Today's kitchen is no longer just an area for food preparation. Americans are finding that their families and guests tend to congregate in the kitchen, making it feel more like Grand Central Station than an area for preparing and consuming meals. Food preparation is difficult when you can't get to ... Read More about A Living Kitchen
The Three Bid Myth
I was at Safeway the other day and picked up a copy of "Kitchen Remodeling for Dummies." I have to say, I was curious to read the advice the publication was offering. Not surprisingly it advocated getting three bids. "Be sure that all three contractors work from the same materials and labor list. ... Read More about The Three Bid Myth
What Is Design and Build?
When homeowners hear the phrase "design/build" it's not necessarily familiar to them. This term describes a process in which one company creates the design and also executes the project. The design/build company is accountable for the entire project from start to finish. According to Design/Build ... Read More about What Is Design and Build?
Choosing a Contractor
Partnership. A project should be a team effort between the contractor and the homeowner. An open exchange of information and ideas is paramount. Personalities need to mesh for a successful project. Communication. The burden of communication – on the details of the design, terms of the agreement, ... Read More about Choosing a Contractor
Checking References
When selecting a contractor is it really necessary to call references? Isn't checking with the Construction Contractor's Board enough? It is absolutely important to check out a contractor's references. A few minutes on the phone now can save you months of headaches down the road. Here are a ... Read More about Checking References
Do You Know Your Contractor?
When you hire a contractor there's an implied understanding that the company you have hired will supervise your job. This is not always the case. Some contractors merely broker your job (similar to the way banks sell loans) to another contractor who will actually build and manage your job. The ... Read More about Do You Know Your Contractor?
Selecting a Remodeler
Start by talking to your friends and coworkers. Look for remodeling project signs in your neighborhood and don't be afraid to talk to your neighbors. Most people are thrilled at the opportunity to discuss their project. No matter how you hear about a contractor, be sure to call the Construction ... Read More about Selecting a Remodeler
Do I Need Plans?
A common question asked by homeowners is, "Will I need plans?" The answer depends on whether you are planning to repair or replace existing components in their current location or if you are planning to reconfigure or add new space. Most simple repairs and replacements do not need plans but do ... Read More about Do I Need Plans?
Where do I Start?
When you are thinking about remodeling, the best place to start is with a professional contractor, who can guide you through the process of design and construction. He can guide you through the process of finding a designer or architect, setting a budget, submitting your plans for city or county ... Read More about Where do I Start?
Reducing the Stress in Remodeling
Everyone knows that remodeling can be stressful. There are decisions to be made, furniture has to be moved, and there will be dust and noise. During the course of the remodel your space will no longer be entirely your own. What can you do to reduce your stress level during such an exciting yet ... Read More about Reducing the Stress in Remodeling
All at once? Or Room by Room?
The advantage of doing a project in sections over of number of years is that you don't have to pay for it all in one year. Although it may be more costly in the long run, you may ultimately be able to afford a remodel of larger scope because you have time to save in between projects. On the other ... Read More about All at once? Or Room by Room?
Help with Your Remodel or Home Addition
Homeowner's often ask how they can participate in their remodeling project. There are lots of ways you can help, if you have the interest and time. One thing that every homeowner must do is make a wide variety of selections to outfit the remodel with lights, tile, appliances, carpeting, cabinets ... Read More about Help with Your Remodel or Home Addition
Remodeling Dreams
The thought of remodeling can be scary. David Hollies, president of a contractor referral service in Maryland called Home Connections, has a great quote regarding the process: "Remodeling is a bit like having 15 strangers over to play football in your living room for a few weeks. They all arrive and ... Read More about Remodeling Dreams
What’s Hot and What’s Not
As home designers and remodelers we work one-on-one with our customers helping them to identify their wants and needs. We are focused on each individual project and making sure that the design of the space incorporates the features that are most important to the homeowner. But it's good to step ... Read More about What’s Hot and What’s Not
The Luxurious Bath
In this fast-paced, high-stress world, more and more people are looking to their homes as a refuge for peace and tranquility. Homeowners are simplifying while at the same time outfitting their homes with quality products that provide them with comfort and ease. Currently in the Corvallis and ... Read More about The Luxurious Bath
The Importance of Kitchen Ventilation
When designing a kitchen, meticulous care is taken in choosing nearly everything from the style of the cabinetry to the brand of light bulbs used. But, in the midst of this detailed planning one of the most important aspects of the kitchen is often overlooked. Kitchen ventilation is one of the key ... Read More about The Importance of Kitchen Ventilation
Flooring for Kitchens and Baths
Today's homeowner has lots of wonderful choices when it comes to floor coverings. Wood remains popular, whether it's a hardwood like oak or softwood like pine. Wood floors are sanded and finished in place after installation. Be prepared to stay at a friend's or a hotel for the night to avoid fumes ... Read More about Flooring for Kitchens and Baths