In this video I give away the REAL secret to surviving a home renovation….I hope it helps you as much as it has helped my clients in the past!

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.

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.

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.

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

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 spend your money wisely and make your renovation dollars work the best for you, having a home renovation strategy could potentially save you thousands. Determining how much to spend on those home improvement projects—or at least which ones will provide you with the greatest ROI—will require a little research on your part.

To really take a sneak peak into the renovation market, I highly recommend checking out Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value report. It’s 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 gauge where your project falls within your neck of the woods and what kind of ROI you could expect.

Stay informed about what buyers in your area are looking for is key to any renovation.

In this video I explain how you get the biggest ROI on your renovations. This is always a concern with many of my clients.

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.

Planning the perfect closet is never an easy task particularly when you have to share with your spouse.  Often one partner has more “inventory” shall we say than the other and rarely are they willing to give up an inch of linear space.

In one of my projects the layout of the master bedroom – simply said just doesn’t make sense.  Currently the original dark, dingy and window-less walk-in closest is located on an exterior wall, which faces the beautiful lush back yard. The single windowed master bath looks directly onto the neighbor’s house.  From a planning perspective it only makes sense to flip the master bath/closet layout in order to maximize the lovely view to the lush yard from a new master bath – and plan for the new closet/dressing room where the old bath was located.

Gutting and shifting the walls to create a bright and spacious master bath and his-and-her closet and dressing area will take this master suite from the ordinary to the extraordinary.  It’s about creating a perfect blend of practicality and luxury in the master bedroom suite.

Keep these ideas in mind when planning the perfect closet for two:

• Don’t feel you need to use up every inch of wall space by sacrificing natural light.  Adding windows or skylights will display your wardrobe clearly.
• Strategically position full-length mirrors to reflect some of that natural light – and to catch a good glimpse of yourself.
• Keep as much inventory as possible in plain sight.  Make sure its well organized, color coded and easily accessible.
• Separate the his from hers – and provide enough space to meander through the shelves and racks.
• If space allows provide an island for plenty of extra storage.  It’s also a terrific surface area for changing out your handbags and organizing accessories.
• Provide a make-up vanity area preferably near a window for natural lighting.
• Don’t forget good general lighting coupled with recessed lighting to highlight your hanging wardrobe.  Using dimmers will add that extra touch of ambiance as well.

Whether you’re planning a closet/dressing room that takes your breath away or a highly practical well-organized closet for two – use these principles to help guide you through the planning process.

For those of you out there who are contemplating an upcoming home renovation project, or arecurrently in the midst of one – there are some great websites out there full of detailed information for all types of remodels and ones that provide interactive forums and discussion boards.

One I’ve been most intrigued by is Buildipedia.  It provides a combination of technical information, editorial content and a full social media experience, catering to Architecture, Engineering and Construction professionals, homeowners and DIYers.

Buildipedia is fabulous resource for connecting and sharing information with other like-minded homeowners.  As a member you can share links, ask questions, post images of your projects and connect with the pros.

Feature articles that cover specialized topics can be viewed through any one of the five channel options.

• At Home – for Homeowners and DIYers.
• Go Green – for Sustainable Design
• In Studio – for Architect, Designers and Planners
• On Site – for Contractors, Project Managers and Construction Pros
• Operations – for Engineers and Managers.

Click here and take a look at yesterday’s article on Kitchen and design trends.  It’s a wonderful piece full of valuable information that you could implement into your plans – today!

http://www.buildipedia.com/at-home/item/1313-kitchen-design-trends-and-ideas

According to the National Association of Home Builders, single-family homes are continuing to get smaller and all indicators show this trend is likely to continue.  So it only makes sense that this trend apply to the interior of your home as well.

When it comes to conceptualizing your home design and decorating projects, downsizing and minimizing creates a more zen-like atmosphere. Rather than fill a space full of furniture, artwork, accessories and objects at every turn, consider downsizing for a more sophisticated and elegant look.  The more upscale homes are often the ones that incorporate elegant pieces, keep clutter to a minimum and exude light and airy interiors – where less is more.

Before you begin your home design project, take stock and inventory of what you have.  It will help you identify which pieces will stay and which will go!  Don’t be a hoarder – be willing to let go!

Here are some design tips when streamlining your home.

• A room with high ceilings does not mean that it requires over-sized furniture and elaborate draperies on the windows. To the contrary, the openness of the ceiling can be a beckoning call to minimize other distractions.
• Rather than focusing on heavy, bulky furniture, think about incorporating smaller scaled furniture that are well proportioned.
• When purchasing new pieces don’t compromise on comfort! Purchase the best you can afford.
• Don’t compromise on function.

The fun thing about down scaling is that it allows you to upscale on the patterns used in a room. For example, the trend now is to introduce larger geometric prints on window treatments or even wall coverings.  These punches of pattern can create a dramatic effect while complimenting the elegance of moderately sized furnishings.  For some added elegance and drama, consider using black and white photographs and prints as artwork.

Another important tip when it comes to decorating a small space is to introduce reflective metals and surfaces.  They can include silver, chrome, gold, mirrors, crystal, and other types of metals. There is still a heavy focus on mirrored chests and dressers today and these pieces definitely add sophistication and elegance to any space. Mirrored wall tiles will have a dramatic effect when reflecting killer views and natural light.  And don’t be afraid to install a beautiful glass and crystal chandeliers in the more unconventional spaces like bathrooms and bedrooms for that added glamour.

Remember that when it comes to home design and decorating projects, less is more and will make your room feel more spacious.

When it comes to renovating your home for re-sale there are a few major renovations that top the list.

1.  Major Kitchen Remodels. (ROI 75-85%)

The function of the kitchen has evolved over the years and now more than ever the kitchen must meet those needs.

• Buyers want to envision themselves in a gorgeous newly renovated kitchen where they can actually see themselves – preparing meals for their friends and family –where the kids nestle into a cozy banquette doing their homework, or their guests mingling around that gorgeous island.  Buyers want to see this in their minds eye and know that it’s attainable.
• A major kitchen remodel may need to include a new floor plan to improve on a poorly designed work triangle.
• If the kitchen is completely dated, isolated and compartmentalized with an inefficient floor plan and layout – don’t think that replacing the cabinets and appliances will camouflage the problem.  It won’t!
• If at all possible add an island into those plans. Everyone loves them!
• Replacing all cabinetry, appliances, lighting, flooring, finishes and fixtures and new French doors and windows will grab the buyers’ attention.
• Since kitchens and baths are the costliest rooms to renovate, the buyer will be thrilled that the work is already done for them.

2.  Family Room Additions. (75% ROI)

The family room is the second most popular space in the home after the kitchen.

• Adding 400 sq. ft. of bright and cheery living space (if your neighborhood will bare it), will definitely improve the value of the home.
• Increase the overall height of your space and introduce a vaulted ceiling.  Creating a sense of volume instantly makes a room feel more spacious.
• Consider the details and add beautiful French doors, floor to ceiling windows or even skylights to flood this new space with light and maximizes a view.  Take it one step further and add the deck.

3.  Deck Addition. (72-95% ROI)

Deck additions are quite possibly the best investments these days. They naturally transition the interior to the exterior – instantly expanding your living space.

And who doesn’t love that?

• It’s a vacation-at-home experience, as it expands your living space and extends the summer season – forcing you to live more outdoors before the winter season sets in.
• Its design can be as simple or elaborate as the home it’s attached to.
• Multi-leveled or single, built in seating or casual seating areas, hot tubs, and outdoor kitchens – all of which add to the vacation home atmosphere.
• Decks are more popular than pools and relatively easy to build.
• Design the deck to compliment the character of your home’s exterior architecture.  Give it some thought in planning – it should be proportionate to the size of your yard.
• Incorporate energy efficient solar or led lighting.

4.  Main Floor Master Bedroom Addition (73% ROI)

Adding a 400 sq.ft. master bedroom suite and spa-like bath provides a private retreat and appeals to many home buyers.

• Access to main floor is gaining in popularity.
• Empty nesters and others, who no longer want to tackle stairs, prefer to have the master bedroom and bath retreat on the main floor level of the home.
• Immediate access to a gorgeous deck or patio outdoors also adds to the return.

5.  Two-Story Addition (77% ROI)

• A two-story addition of 800 square feet could include a new main floor family room and an upper level master suite complete with a full bath.
• Or utilizing that extra space and designating it, as the home office, is very appealing to home- buyers.
• Homeowners are spending more time working from home and with the homepreneur trend growing, buyers are attracted to the extra space dedicated solely to operating their home based business.

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.

This year the more popular home renovations tend to be smaller in scale – where function trumps flash.

According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2010 cost vs. value report, the smaller tweaks and midrange interior and exterior projects are yielding the biggest bang for the buck. In other words the more moderate home improvement projects prove to be the most cost effective.

So if you’re thinking of selling your home now or in the near future, consider these top 5 home remodeling projects to help turn your current house into someone else’s home.

1.  CURB APPEAL
First impressions are everything and you don’t have to be a real estate agent to know that. If your house is unappealing from the outside those potential buyers may never make it through the front door.  A great first impression could add a good 10% to the value of your home.

• Define a clear pathway.
• Upgrade your front door.
• Update old windows with energy efficient products.
• Replace your siding, as it tends to be the least costly upgrade.
• Add a porch or deck. (any extension to the outdoors)
• Add Architectural Details such as trims, shutters and moldings.
• Add a new fence, trellis or gate.
• Landscaping.
• Roofing – replace or repair shingles if damaged.
• Exterior Lighting.
• Fresh Paint.

2.  MINOR or MAJOR KITCHEN REMODEL
Just to give you an idea how important kitchens are to a home’s value – Here in the US we spend almost $200 billion a year on home renovation projects and $15 billion of that are spent on kitchen renovations. If your kitchen’s layout works perfectly well, just making some simple updates will appeal to the perfect buyer.

Either way when you go to sell your house – keep in mind that you’re essentially selling your kitchen and the emotions attached!

• Upgrade the appliances to stainless, as it has become the new standard finish in kitchen appliances.
• Countertops and Sinks.  Consider Quartz surfaces, which are available in a multitude of colors, and finishes for its wonderful properties.  They are highly durable, non porous and easily maintained.
• Kitchen sinks are available in all shapes and sizes to compliment and fit within your kitchen – from under mount, top mount and integral seamless sinks.
• Cabinets and Hardware: repaint, re-stain or reface all door and drawer fronts if the layout still works – otherwise plan for new and improved cabinetry.
• Replace and update old flooring with vinyl, ceramic, hardwood, concrete or stone.

3.  MINOR BATH REMODEL
Just simple upgrading of sinks faucets and fixtures will add value, style and sophistication.

• If your master bath has one sink only and you have a 6’long space, add two new under mount sinks.
• New countertops and cabinetry really set the stage for the space and are critical elements in creating a beautiful spa like environment. Consider certain marbles, soapstone, bluestone or limestone to create a sense of luxury.
• Furniture-like cabinetry in deep warm woods evokes richness.
• Flooring such as ceramic, stone, concrete and woods.
• Frameless glass shower enclosures undoubtedly add to a spa-like atmosphere.

4.  CONVERTING UNFINISHED ATTICS INTO BEDROOMS

• Increasing the amount of livable space is still very important to homeowners and potential buyers – and repurposing existing space is the most cost effective way to achieve that.  It’s much more cost effective than adding on, as well as being the green thing to do.
• If you have the attic space you could develop a 15’ x15’ bedroom c/w a 5×7 bath and shower.   Or utilize that finished attic space as a home office/guest suite.  Allocate this new square footage to appeal to you as well as the buyer.

5. DEVELOPING BASEMENTS INTO AN ADDED LIVING SPACE.

• Developing the basement into a finished and livable entertainment space.
• Create an added bedroom and bath, office, laundry or game room.
• Provide ample built-in storage, playroom and finished bedroom.

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.

Brown Residence, Week 17
With everyone’s hectic lifestyle, the bathroom is the one place to escape from it all to retreat and relax. Whether you’re renovating a main floor  powder room, the kids’ Jack and Jill , or your master en-suite, you want to make sure it looks great and functions well.

When space planning – locate at least one guest bath or powder room that’s easily accessible from the kitchen and family room area of your home.  The master bath should be large enough to fit an oversized tub, generously sized shower and double vanity sinks.

If you’re adding a new bathroom, it’s more cost effective to locate it near existing plumbing lines from neighboring spaces or by sharing a common stacked plumbing wall from above or below

Research magazines, search online, and visit bathroom supply showrooms for inspiration.  Make a list of some of your fantasy bath items and combine your dreams with practicality.

Baths are among the costliest rooms in your home to renovate. That’s why it’s important to realize it’s less about trends and more about style. Select your fixtures, materials, fittings and colors carefully – and make sure each material you select evokes a sense of peace and calm from within.

Basic Bathroom Measurements

Minimum size: 5’ X 7’ (35 s.f.)+
Recommended: 6’ X 9’ (54 s.f.) + with two sinks
Powder room with toilet and sink: 3’ X 6’ (18 s.f.) or 4’ X 5’ (20 s.f.)+
Small bathroom with corner shower, toilet, and sink: 6’ X 6’ (36 s.f.)+
Full bathroom with tub & shower combo, toilet, and sink: 5’ X 8’+(40 s.f.)+

Master bathroom: 10’ X 14’ (140 s.f)+
Standard size bath tub:  30” X 60”
Shower stall: 36” X 36” (bare minimum)+
Space in front of a toilet or bidet: 24”
Length of double sinks vanity counter: 72”+
Height of vanity: 34.5” – 36”
Space to separate a light switch from any water source: 60”
Standard height for toilet paper holders: 26” off the floor
Standard elongated toilet bowl: 14” X 18.5”

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.