OCTOBER IS RENOVATION MONTH! T Th The Dessigign The Design Pr ro rocce roce rocesss


A successful renovation depends on good design. Whether you are remodelling the entire house, turning your basement into living space or updating your kitchen, the quality of the design will determine how satisfi ed you will be with the fi nished job.


Experienced renovators will work with you to explore designs that fi t your home, lifestyle and budget. Renovators will also advise you on the level of design detail and specifi cation needed before they can provide you with a fi rm cost estimate and contract, and the work can get underway.


For a simple renovation project, you and the renovator may be able to work out the design details. If your renovation is large or complex, the renovator may suggest that design be dealt with as a fi rst and separate step of your project.


Typically, the design process begins with a discussion of your ideas and a look at photos, drawings or product literature that you may have collected. The renovator or designer will also ask you to describe what you are trying to accomplish and what do you really need and want.


Based on this information, "concept sketches" are developed, usually more than one to give you a range of options. Often additional fi ne- tuning is needed to complete the design.


At the end of the design phase, you will have a set of drawings or plans that are the basis for getting cost estimates. The drawings should show clearly what the fi nal project will look like, including close-up details, and be accompanied by a specifi cation list of the products and materials to be used.


When your renovation entails structural changes or other work that requires a construction permit, working drawings or blueprints are required for approval by your municipality. Professional renovators can take care of all the details, including dealing with building offi cials.


rocess Tips for keeping within your budget


Renovating entails balancing what you want and the fi nancial resources you have available. Professional renovators suggest a number of approaches that can help to stretch your budget.


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Set prioriSet priorities. Cost-wise renovations begin with a clear plan of what you want to accomplish. The previous section walks you through how to do this.


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in your home. For instance, homeowners sometimes assume that they need extra fl oor space when all that may be needed is more effectively designed space. By rearranging interior walls, eliminating separations and installing larger windows, a less-costly renovation can often create the sense of spaciousness and light you want.


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old trim and doors are in good shape, they can be refi nished rather than replaced. And be sure to look under carpeting to see what’s underneath – in older homes this is often vintage hardwood.


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Do the work i Do the work in stages to suit your budget. Doing the project in phases may allow you to achieve the results you want without undue fi nancial pressure. Your professional renovator can help develop a master plan with proper sequencing of tasks, timelines and expected costs.


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Consider capital versus operating costs. Water-conserving fi xtures will save a considerable amount of money over time in areas with water metering. Likewise, energy-effi cient lighting, high-effi ciency heating systems and electronic thermostats mean long-term savings. Professional renovators are up-to-date on the latest technologies and can provide you with the information you need to make wise decisions for the long term.


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Do some of the work yourselDo some of the work yourselff. If you have the skills, time and interest, you can stretch your renovation dollars by taking on some of the work yourself. Generally, renovators recommend that you leave structural and mechanical renovations to the professionals, but many homeowners can do their own painting, landscaping or other fi nishing jobs.


Do some of the work yourself.


For more information, insights, inspiration, tips, tools and, most importantly, access to professional renovators, to get your job done right visit B


Bi Page 16 New Homes September 2019 Bild Bildl Bildle Bildlet Bildleth Bildlethb Bildlethbr Bildlethbri Bildlethbrid Bildlethbridg Bildlethbridge Bildlethbridge. Bildlethbridge.c Bildlethbridge.ca Bildlethbridge.ca


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