Diary of a Renovation » Architectural Planning Informational Articles on Archtectural Interior Design in Southern California

A Master Bath Renovation – Inspired By Nature

Lori Gilder — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 20:35:52 +0000

When do you KNOW it’s the right time to renovate your space?

In the case of my “Beach” client, that realization came only after she ordered new sliding mahogany doors and interior storage systems for her existing “his and hers” master bath closets. While she originally felt those new doors and the custom shelving would improve the overall function and design of her bathroom space – she and her partner quickly realized that wasn’t the case!

You see, before the closet interiors were to be installed – she would need to replace the old linoleum floor – which then led her to the idea of an up to date vanity which then led her to wanting new and improved lighting – at which point she finally realized that a new Master Bath design plan was critical!

Their dark, dingy, dated and very confined master bath was just begging to be gutted! The mirrored image floor plan consisted of a long and narrow shower, two very small vanities, dark toilet cubicles, limited storage and an overall a lack of space.

Before Floor Plan

The catalyst that started it all. New mahogany closet doors.

Before: Her Side Before His Side

Before His/Her Shower Looking toward “His” closet

As designers we know how essential it is to fully grasp the true essence of a client’s personality and lifestyle – in order to deliver a final product that not only meets their needs but exceed them.

A philanthropic, globe trotting, extreme sport enthusiast, this MD feels most comfortable when surrounded by nature. So with that said, we will provide her with a unique nature-inspired bath retreat incorporating the materials she loves…. from natural woods, stones and rocks to plants – which speaks to her personality and lifestyle.

So stay tuned and follow this unique master bathroom renovation – inspired by nature.

Stay Inspired!

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Natural Light is ALWAYS a Bright Idea!

Lori Gilder — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:34:57 +0000

Bringing more natural light into your home improves our mood and health and gives us that energy boost we need to help us fight those winter blahs

Here are some great tips and tricks to make your home feel lighter and brighter.

Enjoy this week’s video.

Click here to view the embedded video.

I would love to help you brighten up your home in time for summer.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Stay Inspired!

Let The Sun Shine In

Lori Gilder — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:37:06 +0000

When it comes to a renovated home – the truth be told – It’s all in the details! And one of the most important details that dominate the interior and exterior of a home remodel is selecting the ideal windows.

Not only do they define the architectural style on the exterior while providing character and beauty to the interior – they also flood natural light into a space while keeping us connected to the outdoors.

Natural light improves our mood and health and gives us that energy boost we need to fight those winter blahs.

Whether you’re replacing every window or supplementing your home with a few more there are plenty of window styles to choose from.

Here are just a few window styles and types:

Image via Houzz Designer: Summerour Architects

Fixed Windows. These windows are non operational and are typically used for accent windows where light and views are maximized.

Image via Lori Gilder / Interior Makeovers Inc.

Double Hung Windows. This is the most classic and popular window style and is perfect for a traditional or period home. They consist of two sashes – the bottom sash slides up, and an upper sash slides down – yet only half of the window can be open at one time. This is a typical traditional window style.

Image via Country Living

Casement Windows. Another conventional window, casements are side mounted and hinged vertically to swing inward or more often outward. They are operated with a rotating crank and provide great ventilation. These windows can be customized for either a more contemporary or rustic look while providing maximum views and ventilation.

Image via Southern Living

Awning Windows. This window style is similar to the casements. The difference is they are top-hinged and tilt open at the bottom and provide partial ventilation.

Image via House Beautiful

Slider Windows. The sliders are set into top and bottom tracks and slide over one another like a sliding door. Only one half of the window may be opened at a time. This window is very cost effective, doesn’t encroach on an on to any deck or patio and fits in well with many home styles.

Image via Coastal Living

Bay/Bow Windows. These are three sided windows that project out from the exterior wall either straight or on an angle, and typically utilize casement or double hung window styles. On the exterior they fit in well with traditional and Victorian architecture – and instantly add character and charm to the interior. Add a banquette or window seat and you’ve created an instant “wow” factor.

Image via Houzz

Clerestory Windows. These windows are very common in Craftsman style homes. They consist of a series of narrow windows along the top of a wall, which are often elevated above an adjoining roofline.

Take a good look around and grab the design cues from what’s already there then select those perfect windows to enhance your home’s architectural style.

Stay Inspired!

Pantone’s Color Of The Year – 2012

Lori Gilder — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 04:34:04 +0000

It’s that time of year again, when researchers at the Pantone Color Institute released the 2012 Color of the Year. After analyzing the emerging trends from the home, fashion, sports and entertainment industries they determined the ideal color choice for the New Year is Tangerine Tango.

According to executive director Leatrice Eisman at Pantone this is why they selected this reddish-orange color for 2012.

“…the current economic climate and frustrations call for something bolder this coming year. Pantone has turned to the “spirited reddish-orange” hue to “provide the energy boost we need to recharge and move forward.” Orange signals not only vitality, but also urgency and strength—associations that should resonate in a year where many are hoping to finally start seeing changes. “There’s the element of encouragement with orange”.

Here is a quick flashback into the past five years of Pantone’s Color of the Year.

From top to bottom:

Tangerine Tango 2012 – Honeysuckle 2011 – Turquoise 2010 – Mimosa 2009 –

Blue Iris 2008

Whether used a lot or a little – this reddish orange color instantly infuses high energy into your home’s interior. It is an energizing lively and invigorating warm hue, which evokes enthusiasm, self-confidence and creativity. Tangerine Tango pairs beautifully with many color stories and works beautifully with black, white, cream, grey, brown, khaki and blue.

Why not update your foyer, living room, dining room, or bedroom with a boost of Vitamin C? Accessorizing with vases, throws, lamps, pillows and linens is all you will need to freshen up your home for 2012.

Enjoy these interior inspirations.

Image via Elle Décor

Image via Houzz Designer: Betsy Burnham

Image via Houzz Designer: Rebekkah Davies

Image via Lonny

Stay Inspired!

Lori’s Renovation Realities: Costly & Unpredictable

Lori Gilder — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 22:01:57 +0000

This tip is a TRUE renovation reality. If you don’t plan accordingly for a home renovation you may run out of money. If you don’t want this to happen watch this video to find out how to prepare yourself.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Stay inspired!

How Much To Spend On Renovating Your Home

Lori Gilder — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 15:45:24 +0000

If you want to spend your money wisely and make your renovation dollars work the best for you – having a home renovation strategy could potentially save you thousands.

When determining how much to spend on your home improvement projects, it requires some research on your part,

as there are a few variables that come into play here.

Know Your Neighborhood

Setting a realistic budget is very important when renovating your home whether you plan on living there for years or if you’re planning to sell.
Research your area and learn what your neighborhood standard will tolerate.
This will help you set a realistic budget for your projects and then you can make an informed decision as to where your renovation dollars will be best served.
A good rule of thumb in determining how much you should spend on renovating your home is to base it on a percentage of your home’s value.

Learn The Value of Your Own Home

You could hire a realtor or appraiser to assess your property and provide you with a current appraisal and how your home relates to the comps in your neighborhood.
There is also a great online source www.zillow.com where you enter your address and compare your home with others in your neighborhood on an interactive map.
It shows you the range of the property values in your community. Once you have an idea of your home’s current value you could then start budgeting and planning for your remodeling projects.
If you’re renovating your home and plan to stay for 10 years then typically a range of 20%-30% of your home’s value is an acceptable amount to invest.
If you’re remodeling it to sell – then a more conservative number to invest might be15% – 20% of your home’s value. Again, it depends on what your neighborhood can bare – and whether you live in a more modest, middle class or affluent community.

For example – If your home is valued at 350, 000 and your plans are to gut your kitchen space (without any structural changes) by replacing all cabinetry, appliances, fixtures, flooring, countertops and supplementing electrical – and your plans are to move in a couple of years then I’d suggest keeping the cost of the project within 20%. (So spending 70K would be a reasonable investment) And typically a kitchen remodel will have a return on investment of anywhere from 75%-100%.

The Cost vs. Value Report

To really take a peak into the renovation market I highly recommend checking out:

Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value report is a fabulous resource where homeowners can compare national and regional averages for about 33 home remodeling and renovation projects in about 80 cities.
It provides you with a description of the average projects in your area of the country – which allows you to gage where your project falls within your area – and what kind of ROI you could expect. www.costvsvalue.com. Click on 2010-11 Cost vs. Value report and zero in on your corner of the country. It will list the renovation trends of both mid-range and upscale projects.

The Renovation Process – Where To Begin

Lori Gilder — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 03:34:39 +0000

Granted there are some home improvements projects that may not require permits. But having said that, different cities and States do have their own requirements, so make sure to check with your local Building Department before you start. A visit to your local permitting office is the only way to know for sure if you need a permit or not. The officers there will be more than happy to discuss these issues with you so they can avoid future code violations.

In this video I give you THE starting point for when you have decided to go ahead with a renovation. I would highly recommend starting here

Click here to view the embedded video.

Be Inspired!

Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

How to Survive Your Home Renovation

Lori Gilder — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 21:35:13 +0000

If you want to start your renovation off on the right foot and set the tone for the next several months or more, then consider a few of these surefire ways to win over your design team, and make your renovation experience a great one.

In this video I give you some tips on how to not only survive a renovation but maybe even enjoy it! Have fun!

Click here to view the embedded video.

Stay Inspired!

Lori’s Renovation Realities: Removing A Wall? Expect The Unexpected!

Lori Gilder — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 02:16:23 +0000

Take it from me, YOU JUST NEVER KNOW what you’re going to find. So be PREPARED and be FLEXIBLE!

Click here to view the embedded video.

Stay Inspired!

My Interview With Freshome

Lori Gilder — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 17:08:04 +0000

Freshome is a fabulous online interior design and architecture magazine for design savvy enthusiasts. It spans the design world from furnishings, interiors and architectural properties from across the globe. The inspiration here is endless.

Thank You Freshome! I am very honored to be featured here today.

Click here to check it out!

Stay Inspired!