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: 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”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

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.

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

Contact us at Interior Makeovers Inc.  310-788-0990.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

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”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

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.

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”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Determining how much to spend on your home renovation projects can be overwhelming and confusing.   So what is a wise investment?

Watch my latest video where I share a quick tip on this very subject.

Stay 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”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

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

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”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Summer is behind us and we’re officially into “Fall” mode, and for many of us the thought of getting our homes “holiday ready” is slowly becoming a reality.

Finding fresh design inspirations for fall 2011 and adding some warmth to your home is as easy as ever – particularly when the runways, magazines, newspapers and television shows keep us abreast as to what’s hot and what’s not from one year to the next.

Here are just a few of the home design trends that have been making their mark recently. I feel most of these trends have the staying power and are on the verge of becoming the new lifestyle standard.

What’s Hot!

Architect: Amy Gardner: Gardner/Mohr Architects

Investing in Your Home: 

Yes the economy remains unpredictable but more and more homeowners are finally “ready” to enhance their quality of life at home. “Nesting” is here to stay and re-thinking the way we really want to live is now a reality.  Implementing high quality sustainable, recycled and renewable materials and products into our homes – is an investment worth making and will withstand the test of time.  It’s smarter, healthier and greener!

Photo via: Leslie Goodwin Photography

Multi-Functional Spaces:

Maximizing every inch of space – within the existing footprint – and providing creative and integrated storage solutions throughout your entire home is more important now than ever. Less clutter and greater organization will contain your “stuff” and still allow your home to feel more spacious, uncluttered and inviting.

Photo via:  Neuhaus Design Architecture, P.C.

Re-Interpretation of Design Styles:

From coast to coast the design showrooms are displaying a distinct softening and refinement of the modern interior with a departure from the harsher lines and minimalist trends of the past few years.  Introducing a mixture of many design genres into your room creates an immediate personality and lifestyle – something many design savvy homeowners are craving these days.  With fewer rules than ever before, re-interpreting the past and blending it with the new creates a more authentic and personal interior design style.  Infusing character which has evolved over time – creates that “Timeless” interior.

Photo via: LUX Design Inc.

The New “It” Color:

Each season the color forecasters share the new colors of the moment.  This fall it’s the color – purple!  It defines elegance and refined luxury at the same time represents royalty (and who doesn’t NEED to feel regal from time to time!) This spiritual color also works beautifully with various shades of grey, cream, yellows, rich woods and metallics.

Contact us at Interior Makeovers Inc. 310-788-0990 to discuss your home design visions.

Stay 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”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

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!

Stay 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”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Are you thinking about tackling your own home renovation project over the holidays?  Are you petrified to begin and would love to have someone help guide you?

Homerenovations.about.com is a great site to help you with that and more.  Whether you’re a first time DIYer or a serial remodeler will help steer you in which ever direction you’re headed – at the same time empowering you with great tips, insights and design inspiration to help navigate you through the renovation world.

I want to thank Lee Wallender for featuring one of my renovation projects as one of the 10 Sexy Bathroom Remodels featured on his site today.  Check it out here.

So if you plan to upgrade or renovate any part of your home first check in with Lee and browse through the site.  You’ll find everything you need to know.

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”

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

Whether you’re planning a home renovation project this year, or just redecorating your family room, going green has never been so simple. Product manufacturers are making it easier than ever for us to incorporate eco friendly materials, finishes and furnishings into our homes. Now is the time to learn how to implement these green concepts and products into YOUR next project. Transforming your home into a more healthful and energy efficient one doesn’t have to happen all at once. Start with one project at a time!

Do some research, and educate yourself on all the exciting recycled and sustainable products that are out there on the market? It’s quite impressive. Here Are 6 Great Ideas To Help Get You Started!

1. Repurpose Existing Space. Instead of adding on to your home consider are planning existing spaces within the original footprint. Moving walls and borrowing space from neighboring rooms could create a more functional and efficient space for your family and provide you with exactly what you need—without adding any square footage.
2. Architectural Salvage. What a great place to wander for inspiration. Character abounds in your local salvage yards. They typically specialize in recycled building materials and architectural details from all across the country. You can find fabulous doors, windows, cabinetry, lighting fixtures and scads of architectural details and ornaments all at reduced costs. Use your imagination here and get creative. It’s all in the details!
3. Flooring. There’s nothing like hardwood! For generations it’s been one of the more popular choices in flooring. There are many beautiful hardwoods out on the market today that are FSC certified. The Forest Stewardship Council encourages environmentally responsible forestry practices. Check out www.ecotimber.com. It’s a great source for reclaimed hardwoods, engineered hardwoods and the most sustainable material of them all – bamboo flooring.
4. Paint. There are several paint manufacturers who have developed low-VOC and zero-VOC paints for the green consumer. VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds, which are toxic gasses that are emitted into the air while the paint is drying and even for a while after. A great new product is Benjamin Moore’s “Natura” paint. It’s zero-VOC, completely odorless and is available in their full range of exquisite colors and finishes. So whether you’re painting one room, or your entire house, now’s the perfect time to use a low or zero- VOC paint product. No more excuses! www.benjaminmoore.com/natura. Cost is approx. $55/gallon compared to $40-50/gallon for traditional paint.
5. Window Treatments. When it’s time to replace your window coverings look for energy efficient products. They provide great benefits by preventing heat loss in the winter, diffusing the heat of the sun in the summer, and saving money on your pocketbook all year round. www.hunterdouglas.com has a beautiful window shade called “Duette Architella” where the honeycombed air pockets trap the hot and cold air so your home stays comfortable all year long.
6. Appliances. As your appliances need to be replaced purchase Energy Star appliances. The blue and white Energy Star label translates into an energy savings of up to 50% compared with traditional products. Most major manufacturers are part of this program, so go to www.energystar.gov and look through the 18,000 products available and choose the ones that best suit 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.
© 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc

Brown Residence, Week 2
When programming, developing and planning an extensive home renovation project, it’s important to gather as much of the client’s background information as possible, as it helps create a comprehensive design profile.

Let me give you a brief overview of Liz and Mark’s history – where they began and where they are now – eight years later.

Flash Back to 2001.

What Worked.

• Purchased the 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 3500 sq. ft. home built in 1949.
• Adored the site, location and property.
• A beautiful expansive back yard for a young family, and perfect for entertaining.
• Moved in as a family of three with another child on the way.
• Immediately remodeled and added on an office, enlarged the kitchen, integrated the detached garage and landscaped the rear yard.
• The large family room was open to outdoor living spaces.
• Generously sized master bedroom and bath.

Fast Forward to 2009.

What No Longer Works.

• Growing family’s needs to accommodate a family of six. (A new child is expected in a few months).
• The two young boys currently share a bedroom.
• Short two bedrooms – one for the new baby – one for another child.
• Three children share one small bathroom.
• Unable to have family dinners in the kitchen.
• Need a laundry room – currently appliances are recessed into a closet just off the kitchen.
• Poor traffic flow from the foyer throughout the house.
• Dark and dingy entrance/foyer.
• Have outgrown the space, yet love their location.

Here’s a blueprint of the current floor plan.

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