New Construction ~ Remodel ~ Restoration ~ Contract Management

420 South Division Street • Traverse City • 231.932.9700

The Remodeling Process

So you are thinking of remodeling a kitchen or bath. No doubt the thought of where to begin can be overwhelming, but hopefully we can answer some questions and give some guidance to get you started.

ASK ANGELA ~ by Angela Goodall

DESIGN BEFORE BUDGETING

First and foremost, you need to hire a designer to develop the overall project, complete with drawings and material selections. Oftentimes, a contractor is the first to be brought in and asked to develop a budget estimate. Without having a design in place and materials selected, that estimate can only be a “best guess.” You should expect to pay a modest fee to have a professional in home consultation. The designer can only give you their best design after seeing the space, analyzing if adjoining rooms will be affected or need to be part of the flow, taking measurements, analyzing the natural light sources and the overall feeling of the space.

ONE STOP SHOPPING

When selecting a design professional specific to kitchen and bath, you should develop a relationship with a company you will have involved from start to finish.

Most kitchen and bath firms include the price of the cabinetry design with the cabinetry package. This will save you money when you choose to use that firm to purchase your product from. Designers that also sell the product, have an extensive knowledge in fees associated in making modifications to manufactured cabinetry and the options the cabinet lines have to offer. Unless you have decided to automatically use custom cabinetry, having the designer supply the product gives you seamless transition from the design phase to installation.

FUNCTION BEFORE FORM

Updating your space to take on a new look is often one of the driving factors behind remodeling. However, both kitchens and baths are major investments and not easily changed. Your designer should “interview” you and get to know how your family uses the space. There is no dollar amount that can be put on having spaces that function exactly as you want them to and suit your daily needs. I firmly believe that, when done properly, remodeling can dramatically add to your family’s quality of life. A kitchen that is designed specifically to perform for how your family lives will encourage more home cooked meals, quality time spent together and help alleviate some of the stress our busy lives can bring.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013 | BAY LIFE NORTH

Orchestrating your vision.