Starting a home renovation is exciting! But it can also feel overwhelming and disruptive to your family’s routine, especially if it’s your first experience with a home renovation. That’s why it is crucial to plan your remodel well in advance. Creating a comprehensive plan will ensure a smoother renovation process and help you achieve your desired outcome. We talked to the experts at Remodeling Consultants for their tips on how to kick things off with confidence (especially as busy parents).
- Outline Your Renovation Goals: Begin by clearly stating the end goal for your renovation. Consider factors such as functionality, aesthetics, and personal preferences. By defining your objectives, you will have a clear direction to follow throughout the renovation process.
- Provide Design Inspiration: Collect images, magazines and online resources showcasing your desired style. This gives your contractors a better understanding of your taste and help them bring your vision to life.
- Assess Your Budget, Property Condition, and Desired Outcome: Your budget will determine the scope of your renovation. Working with professionals to assess the condition of your property is paramount in identifying potential structural issues or areas that require major repairs. Lastly, understanding your ultimate objective will help guide your decision-making process
- Do Your Research: Talk to friends and family who have completed renovations and learn from their struggles and successes. Read reviews and browse through photos of completed projects for valuable insights and inspiration.
- Be Well Prepared: By outlining your renovation goals, providing design inspiration, assessing your budget and property condition, and understanding your desired outcome, you will be well-prepared to embark on your renovation journey. Remember, the key to a successful renovation lies in thorough planning and a clear vision.
What is something parents should keep in mind when taking on a renovation project?
Normal daily activities could be disturbed by construction, especially during the morning when your family is waking up and getting ready for their day.
Any tips on living through a home renovation as a family?
It depends on the type of project you’re planning. But, start by organizing and eliminating clutter. Store what you don’t need and only keep out the necessities. Remember, construction can cause the house to get dusty quickly, even in parts that aren’t part of the project. For example, if you’re doing a kitchen remodel, plan to create a make-shift kitchen and purchase electric plug-in appliances (like in your college days), collect take out menus and the the gas tank for your grill!
How do I make sure a renovation project is the right fit for our family?
It can be tough for families to find a renovation project that is the right fit because of the potential disruption to everyone’s daily activities. But, when looking at a remodel it is helpful to choose the time of year. For example, summer may be a good option because the kids are out of school, possibly at camp and you may be planning to be away for vacation. Outdoor grilling is easier too, if you’re planning a kitchen remodel.
What rooms do you see most families with children wanting to renovate?
The kitchen. It’s the room we use most in a house. Most older kitchens are small and not open to other parts of the house. Growing families and growing children need space to move around a kitchen while cooking. Because we spend so much time in the kitchen, having room for eat-in tables or better yet, islands with stools, is a huge way to improve older kitchens!
Are there any specific materials or recommendations you make for families with children who are undergoing a renovation (ex. most durable countertops, etc.)?
Quartz countertops are great in kitchens because of their durability. From a planning perspective, it’s important to design spaces that make sense, rather than spaces that are fashionable and not practical (like the bathroom at the last hotel you stayed at). Select faucet finishes that are easy to clean in a bathroom and do not require special cleaning products for fear of ruining the fancy finish you felt you needed. Stay away from a curb-less shower or partially enclosed shower… water gets everywhere!
Remodeling Consultants is a design build home remodeling company serving all of Fairfield and Westchester Counties. With over sixty years of experience and knowledge, they can bring your vision to reality. At no cost or obligation, receive a free in-home consultation. One of their Design Consultants will arrive at the appointed time to discuss and analyze your specific remodeling needs and desires. Click here to learn more!
Remodeling Consultants Connecticut Office | 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford, CT 06905 | (203) 321-1250