Hello Friends,
Happy July! As you might recall from my last newsletter, it is the final countdown for the 2024 ASID Design Home – the Pillsbury Castle Project! The house will be open to the public July 12-28. You can purchase tickets on their website. I just attended a meeting at the Castle last week. The house is looking magnificent! There is a flurry of construction occurring to get everything completed and ready for the open house dates. Nonetheless, each room brings an “Ohh and Ahhh”. The craftsmanship is amazing. The project has been an incredible undertaking. To bring a 1903 home up to today’s standards, codes and lifestyle is no small feat. I encourage everyone to view the home while it is open.
This brings me to my topic. Construction… don’t they make it look easy on TV? Anytime a homeowner enters into any type of remodel or construction there can be lots of surprises and inevitably there can be some delays or issues which come up, especially when the home is older. It is the nature of the beast. The walls can cover a lot of hidden challenges. However, there are steps you can take to make the construction/remodel process run more smoothly.
- Step 1 – Start planning early. Think about what is working and what is not working. What do you want to change or keep? The more decisive you can be the easier it will be to create and construct.
- Step 2 – Collect images of what you like. Don’t worry about trying to figure out what you like about the images, a professional can assist you to determine that. It can also be helpful to keep photos of images that you don’t like in order to fine tune the design. Also, remember just because you like an image it doesn’t mean it will apply to your project.
- Step 3 – Create a list of “Must Have”, “Nice to Have” and “Sort of Would Like”. This will help to fine tune the design and the determine what is important
- Step 4 – Look at the calendar to determine when you would like to start the project. It is not too early to start planning a year in advance. Designers and Contractors schedules can book quickly. Realize that timelines can change, give yourself padding on the time you want the project completed.
- Step 5 – Interview Contractors and Designers. Remodeling/construction is the beginning of a many month relationship. You need to make sure you have a rapport with all involved. The better your relationship the better the communication, which can make the project run more smoothly.
- Step 6 – Allow the designer to design and contractor to construct. Both individuals bring a wealth of knowledge to the project. You have hired them to assist you in creating your vision. Listen to their expertise. They will save you time, money and mistakes.
- Step 7 – Complete the design concept before starting construction. This will allow the GC to give you an accurate cost and will keep you project moving because products can be ordered in a timely manner.
Whether it is remodeling a current home or building a new one, it is an exciting adventure with lots of decisions. Early planning with good communication will make your project run much more smoothly. If you would like help in getting started, give Terry Gustafson Interior Design a call. I would love to help you make your visions become a reality. Happy Planning!
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