If you’re ready to shake of those winter cobwebs, and tackle a home renovation project this spring – large or small – then you’ll need to do your homework, compile your wish and needs list and have a comprehensive plan, in order to gather various bids from at least three different contractors.

It’s important to get these written bids as detailed as possible, documenting the overall scope of your project along with each detail and all proposed materials.

Now depending on the scope of your particular home renovation project there are various types of bids relative to the size of your job.

Typically there are three types of bids you could negotiate with your potential contractor.

1.  The Fixed Cost Bid

The contractor provides a solid bid based on your submitted documentation. This seems to be the ideal situation as it sets a complete price for the overall project and you know exactly where you stand up front.

Is best when:

• You have comprehensive plans and documents prepared.
• The scope of your project is very clearly defined.

2.  The Cost Plus Bid

The contractor charges you for his labor, materials, and equipment costs, plus his standard profit and overhead mark up. This option works well for some, but the downside is you really have no concrete idea of how much the project will cost before you start.

Is best when:

• You’re not yet committed to firm plans, and you’re still unsure of the overall scope of your project.
• You’re anxious to begin construction before your plans are nailed down.

3.  Time + Materials Bid

The independent contractor is paid his hourly rate plus the cost of materials. This isn’t the type of arrangement you want for a large scaled projects, as it would prove way too costly!

Is best when:

• It’s a smaller job, perhaps a repair or installation, where only one tradesperson in required.

Which one suits your project best?

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: “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Spring is here and it’s time to tackle some of those home improvement projects you’ve been putting off over the past few years.  Whether it’s updating your kitchen, adding that outdoor living space or finishing your attic, you must find trustworthy and competitive bids from reputable contractors.

This can be one of the more confusing and stressful stages of the home renovation process. Everyone seems to attach different meanings here so….

What’s an estimate? What’s a bid? What’s a proposal? What’s a contract?

What’s the difference?
An estimate is an approximation or rough calculation based on a very general description of a project. This is only an estimate or guess, given at the preliminary stages of a project when plans aren’t yet finalized and ideas are still being tossed around.

A bid is an actual cost and commitment based on a more specific description of work to be done. It’s an accurate accounting of costs since it’s typically based on, and budgeted from, a full comprehensive set of plans, specifications, and details of the overall scope of the project.

A proposal outlines all the terms and conditions that will be included in the final agreement between all parties with all the stipulated costs outlined and documented in the bid itself.

A contract is the binding legal agreement between you and the contractor to do specific work itemized in the bid, for specific compensation – and must be signed by all parties.

It really helps to know what types of bids there are and which ones are best suited to your project.

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: “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Brown Residence, Week 19
Back in November when I began “Diary of a Renovation” my goal was to document the transformation of my client’s – The Browns – 3600 sq. ft. home from the ordinary to the extraordinary – and share the daily events that occur while dreaming – planning – designing –building and living through a very special home renovation project in Los Angeles.

While in the throws of re-planning and re-designing this spectacular home –my clients Liz and Mark Brown welcomed their fourth child to their family. While Liz was feeling somewhat anxious and very overwhelmed by the project scope and the time commitment – the couple decided to purchase a beautiful home that met their needs – and best of all was in move in condition!

So – now it’s time for me to regroup, document and prepare to share another great renovation project with you.  I promise to take you with me on a unique and exciting home renovation journey where you’ll witness the good, the bad and the ugly sides of the home renovation process.  I know it will prove to be incredibly exciting—constantly evolving—never failing to inspire.

In the meantime I’ll continue to write about what I know best in the home renovation world, and share great tips, trends and strategies that will undoubtedly inspire you for your current and future home remodeling projects.

You renovation junkies should get the fix you need.

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: “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Brown Residence, Week 18
Why is it that even the smallest remodeling project can take 3 times longer than originally quoted?  We are finally converting a den area in our home into our “Tween” daughter’s new bedroom.

No matter how small the project, planning the space to scale on paper first with a written scope of the work, allows you to budget for the necessary materials, furniture, fabrics and lighting you’ll need to makeover your tween’s space.

The drawing doesn’t need to be anything fancy – in fact here’s a quick sketch (to scale) of Andie’s bedroom floor plan which includes a furniture layout and construction notes.

Scaling the plan immediately lets me know the furniture sizes that best fit the space.  Knowing this in advance saves me valuable time and money allowing me to purchase the right pieces the first time.

After assessing my tween’s needs, we can then define scope of this remodeling project – which goes something like this:

Furniture Needs List:

• Full size bed with headboard and footboard.
• New bedding.
• Night stands or tables on each side of bed.
• 24”x48” desk with chair.
• 16”x 36” chest of drawers.
• Chair and lamp.
• Desk lamp.
• Bedside lamps.
• Area rugs.
• New window coverings.

Construction Needs List:

• Close over foyer entrance and match existing board siding.
• Add 2 extra outlets.
• Add new door from the hallway side to match existing.
• Repair random hardwood floorboards where necessary.
• Convert old TV unit to closet c/w new paint grade doors.
• Prime and paint throughout with low VOC paints.

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: “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

You’ve been collecting photos, articles and all kinds of inspiration from magazines and websites for years.  You’ve imagined, visualized and dreamed about your “ideal” home for as long as you can remember (and you have the files to prove it).

For years you’ve envisioned yourself curled up in front of your spectacular fireplace reading the current NY Times bestseller, inviting your family and friends over for that super bowl party, and kicking back and relaxing with your kids after a great summer barbeque.

Your family room is the second most popular space in the home after the kitchen – a multi-functional place where we’re anchored as a family – so isn’t it time to get your vision down on paper, call a contractor and make it happen in time for spring?

Here are 10 Great Design Tips and Guidelines To Help Get You Started.

1. Open your family room to adjoining spaces so the room is visible from the kitchen and dining room, ultimately inviting everyone in.
2. Define these open spaces by introducing some architectural elements such as arches, columns, and other details.
3. If possible add floor-to-ceiling windows along the entire length of the exterior wall to introduce more natural light while maximizing your view.
4. Increase the overall height of your space by introducing a vaulted ceiling Creating a sense of volume will instantly make your room feel more spacious.
5. Plan your home entertainment system early on in the design phase to ensure that all electrical wiring and any integrated systems meet your needs.
6. Create one major focal point within this space. Install your large screen plasma TV within the fireplace wall  (if you have one).
7. The furniture layout should be oriented toward the focal point of the space.  Don’t be inclined to line up your furniture pieces up against the wall thinking it creates more space.  It doesn’t.
8. Custom design or purchase comfortable sofas, upholstered in durable, easy-to-clean and forgiving fabric. This informal and relaxing gathering space should function the way you really need it to.
9. Be aware of traffic patterns when planning a furniture layout.  The ability to walk through the room without navigating through a maze of furniture is key.
10. Plan for your family room to have multiple light sources. The combination of general, task, and accent lighting (all on dimmers) creates drama and produces an amazing effect over the entire space.

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: “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Wow!  It’s the beginning of March already and spring is just around the corner.  I can only imagine how eager you Easterners must be to leave those snow days behind.

Aren’t you ready to shake off those cobwebs, and grab on tightly to the first signs of spring?

Spring is a time for renewal, a time for recharging, and time to start planning your summer home renovation project.  Whether it’s that gourmet kitchen and family room you’ve been dreaming about, the outdated master bathroom you’ve been putting off, or the new bedroom addition you desperately need, spring is for planning and summer is for building.

Walk around your house with paper in hand and start working on a list of improvements your home needs and some others you want.  Factor in a budget for each and decide if you’ll need a general contractor to oversee your project or do you plan on taking on the role of a general contractor yourself?

Many DIY contractors feel they will save a considerable amount of cash by overseeing the entire project themselves. Truth be told, if this is your maiden voyage, your lack of experience and any errors you make along the way could realistically only save you 10% to 15% of your overall construction costs.

If your job is small and only requires the organization of two or three different sub trades then it may pay to take on the job.  Providing you have a solid relationship with a few of these specialists then this may be the best type of DIY contracting for you.

So you have to ask yourself: Do I have what it takes to be my own general contractor? And more importantly, is it worth it?

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: “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Brown Residence, Week 12
When it comes to a renovated home – the truth be told – It’s all in the details!  One of the most important details that dominate the interior and exterior of a home remodel is selecting the perfect windows.  They define the architectural style on the exterior and provide character and beauty to the interior while keeping you connected to the outdoors.

Whether you’re replacing every window in your existing home or window shopping for your new addition, there are a vast array of types and sizes to suit your needs.

So while you’re planning your home renovation or addition make sure you do your research to learn which types and style works with your home’s architecture.

Here are just a few window styles and types:

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

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

3.  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 a more contemporary look while providing maximum view and ventilation.

4.  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.

5.  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.

6.  Bay/Bow Windows. These are three sided windows that project out from the exterior wall 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.

7.  Picture Window. This window style is very common in ranch-style homes.  Typically a large center fixed window is flanked by two operational windows on each side – using either casements or double hung styles.

8.  Garden Windows. These are wonderful to use in the kitchens or master baths, as they instantly add light and architectural interest to your space.  They’re very similar to a bay window but are typically set at right angles and filter great natural light into the space.

9.  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.

10. Skylights. These are usually fixed windows framed into the roof providing added daylight into your space. I love to incorporate them into master baths and kitchens where they provide much more natural light and create an added sense of volume as well.

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: “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca.
© 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc

For the 43 million of us who have dogs in our lives we understand that special bond that exists.  Studies have shown that living with pets directly relieves the daily stress and lowers the chances of heart attacks and strokes.

Dogs are loyal, loving and provide us with a sense of protection. They are always excited to see us, never complain, and tolerate our shortcomings.

But lets be honest.   Dogs are messy!

Maintaining a clean and comfortable home without compromising style is important for a successful co-existence between you and your pet.  Combining your family’s needs along with your pooch’s – will provide you with a great sense of satisfaction and relief.

So here are a few pet-friendly design and decorating tips to help simplify your life.

1.  Flooring.

• Avoid carpeting if at all possible.  It’s a very unforgiving material to have underfoot when it comes to accidents and traipsing in dirt from the outside – not to mention the clumps of fur, hair and bacteria trapped from within.
• If your dog has regular access to carpeted areas throughout your home have them professionally cleaned every 2 months.  If you insist on carpeting – introduce self-adhesive carpet tiles.  That way you can easily replace one soiled tile rather than an entire carpet.
• Install easy-to-clean low maintenance materials such as ceramic tile, vinyl, stone, concrete or any hardwoods. Have your pup’s nails trimmed often to keep floor scratches to a minimum.
• Don’t be afraid to introduce area rugs for warmth and character. Natural sisals and seagrass area rugs are very durable. Depending on the type, they can be easily cleaned and maintained.

2.  Upholstery.

• Avoid both very light and very dark fabrics – as they tend to show every pet hair and stain known to man.  Warm neutrals and durable fabrics will be somewhat forgiving, and still lets you know when it’s time for a cleaning.
• Some feel leather is a great upholstery solution.  It’s easily wipe-able and impervious to odors.  The flip side is, if your dog is a nester (like mine) you’ll invariably begin to see scratches and indentations on the cushions.
• Slipcovers are a perfect solution for soft seating.  Not only will the washable fabric protect your favorite sofa – it will also provide you with an instant interior makeover while the covers are being laundered.

3.  Wall Finish.

• Re-paint your walls with satin or eggshell paints and avoid flat entirely. Your dog may be prone to drooling and one shake after coming in from the rain will leave your flat finished wall, marked and full of stains.  Satin and eggshell finishes are wipe-able and much easier to clean. (Semi-gloss paint works also, yet shows every wall imperfection)
• Infuse some instant character into your pets favorite spaces by introducing some wainscoting and molding approx. 42” up the wall. It will protect the wall from stains and dirt.  Paint the wainscoting with a semi-gloss, eggshell or satin finish for easy cleaning and the upper wall portion in a flat contrasting color.
• Wood paneling, glass and mirrored walls are also easily maintained – not to mention beautiful design elements to implement into any home.

4.  Collectables.

• Remove your priceless delicate collectables off the sofa back tables, end tables and any other low lying surface, where the swipe of a tail – large or small – will level your living space.
• Place all these sentimental antique figurines in a special cabinet or shelving area – or in another room entirely – where Sparky isn’t allowed.

5.  Clean Up Corner.

• This is THE ideal situation for those who have the layout and space.  It can be incorporated into a back hall area, mudroom or existing laundry space.
• If possible provide a shower floor with a hand held showerhead, making those daily paw baths that much quicker, easier and cleaner!
• Wall-mount some shelving units from your home improvement store and keep your dog’s food, leashes, toys and towels in one clean corner.
• Have an absorbent dog mat and towels at the door for an immediate landing spot on those wet and miserable rainy days.

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: “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca.
© 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc

Brown Residence, Week 8

Having accumulated enough data to bring the Brown’s design concept into focus gives me the information I need to really begin developing a comprehensive and well-designed floor plan.  It’s my job to make sense of Liz and Mark’s wants and needs and implement them into the overall layout and floor plan.

Remember we are working with and existing home of approx. 3,800 square feet and potentially adding on another 2,000+ square feet to the existing structure.

Spatial relationships are extremely important when planning a successful layout.  As the floor plan begins to evolve, we must aim for consistency, uniformity, proportion and flow from one space to another.

The development of a solid floor plan is where you begin to see your dream take shape.  It’s a process that evolves over time between the designer and client, and is the first crucial step in providing you with a true reflection of how your family really lives.

Committing to a final floor plan takes time to develop.  From a sketch on tracing paper to completed CAD drawings – the ultimate goal is to create a fantastic layout that is perfect for you!

Here Are 5 Key Strategies For A Smooth Planning Process:

1. Work very closely with your designer or architect.
2. As questions – if you don’t understand the drawings, have them explained until you do.
3. Take your time and plan methodically to avoid costly errors.
4. Make sure your designer implements all of your desires and understands your priorities.
5. A fully detailed plan helps to avoid any miscommunications.

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: “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca.
© 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc

The other day when I was on the phone with my client scheduling our first preliminary plan review meeting she asked,  “Does Mark need to be there for this one?”  With so many meetings on the agenda, we really need to hand select which meetings are best for him to attend.  But first we need to assess what type of client he is.

More to the point, the answer to this question really depends on your husband’s level of interest in renovation process, his personality type and his schedule of availability – and that in turn will provide you with your answer.

In all my years of designing homes for singles – couples and families, I’ve learned that when it comes to men – there are typically three categories they fall under.

The Enforcer.
He is the boss, chief, or micromanager who insists on controlling every aspect of the home renovation project from beginning to end.  He is “Master of his Domain” and has an insatiable need to control with excessive attention to minor detail.  By nature, he tends to distrust the very professionals he’s hired to do the job.

The Endorser.
Has a minimal interest in the design process, supports his wife’s decisions and trusts her implicitly to work hand in hand with their design professionals – knowing without hesitation that they will deliver the best product.

The Contributor.
Provides his thoughts and opinions when necessary, but speaks out loudly when it comes to specific details that are important to him.  He sees his home as a sanctuary and wants it to reflect his personality as well as his wife’s.  He has a certain design criteria and really enjoys participating in the decision making process – particularly when it involves media rooms, master baths and outdoor kitchens.

Ok.  Now be honest.  Which type are you?

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: “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca.
© 2009 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc