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Planning & Designing

In home remodeling as in other life journeys, if you don’t know where you’re going, you might not get there. Every successful remodeling project starts with a plan, and every good plan starts with well-defined goals. What do you want to accomplish in the project? More living space? A more usable, stylish kitchen? A more luxurious bath? Or do you just want to fix what’s broken and refurbish what’s worn out? Learn to define your remodeling goals so that you can work with others to achieve them.

Articles

  • Define Your Remodeling Project
    Start planning your remodeling project by defining its goals. Do you want to restore function and update the look of your home? Solve problems or overcome limitations of the existing design? Add space or change the way you live in your home? Prepare for the future?
  • Define Your Role in Your Remodeling Project
    You don’t have to be a carpenter, mason, plumber or electrician to make an important contribution to the success of your remodeling project. You can play a critical role by doing what you’re best at, whether it’s framing the big idea or managing the details.
  • Guide to Remodeling Design Professionals
    All but the simplest remodeling projects require licensed design professionals. Architects generally offer the most complete set of general design skills. Specialist designers such as CKDs and CBDs can add flair to kitchens and baths. Professional engineers have a role in designing acceptable plumbing, heating and electrical plans. Consult LEED-APs for the latest in green design and building. Here’s who’s who and how to choose the designers you may need.
  • Develop a Complete Set of Remodeling Plans
    Remodelers need a full set of professionally prepared architectural plans to estimate costs, obtain financing, apply for permits and guide construction.
  • Estimating the Cost of Remodeling
    Before finalizing remodeling designs, it’s a good idea to do a reality check on the likely cost of construction by developing a parametric cost estimate.
  • The Value of Remodeling
    An authoritative study shows that overall, every dollar spent on remodeling a home adds about 70 cents to the home’s value. With home values in decline nationwide, does it still make sense to invest in your home? Here’s a view of home improvement from an investment perspective.