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Guest Post - 5 Factors to Consider Before Starting a Home Remodeling Project

Thinking about embarking upon a home remodeling project can be so exciting! Whether it's turning an unfinished basement into a home movie theater, transforming an outdated bathroom, or renovating a kitchen, home remodeling can add extra comfort and usability to your living space.

But remember, remodeling projects can often go awry or way over budget, so before you start, be sure to consider these five factors. Understanding these now can save you time, money, and stress later on.

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Thinking about embarking upon a home remodeling project can be so exciting! Whether it's turning an unfinished basement into a home movie theater, transforming an outdated bathroom, or renovating a kitchen, home remodeling can add extra comfort and usability to your living space. 

But remember, remodeling projects can often go awry or way over budget, so before you start, be sure to consider these five factors. Understanding these now can save you time, money, and stress later on. 

1. Will Your Home Remodeling Project Be a Sound Investment?

There's no doubt that remodeling projects often add a touch of beauty and glamour to your home, but even the smallest of projects could have a large price tag. Will the cost of what you'd like to have fit within your current budget? It'll be hard to enjoy the new space if you're worried about paying off your loan or credit card bills. Also, consider your home's current value and the value of the homes in your neighborhood.  If you're remodeling because you'd like to put your home up for sale soon, this information will be helpful since you may not want to spend money on a remodeling project if it doesn't increase the property's value.

2.  Consider the Timing and Space

Before moving forward with a home remodeling project, you need to make sure you have sufficient space for what you'd like to accomplish. For example, if you want to transform your basement into an in-law’s apartment, you first need to make sure there is ample space for a family member to live comfortably.  

Timing your remodeling project is also an important factor. Depending on where you live and the nature of the project, some work may depend on the weather and the season. Outdoor projects such as building a deck or a garage may need to be done during a warm and dry time of the year.

3.  Set a Realistic Timeline

Be sure to allocate ample time for every step of your remodeling project. The fact is that for nearly every large-scale project, you will likely come up against at least one unexpected delay. Delay-causing events can range from discovering unknown structural problems with your house to delays in shipping for appliances to unpredictable, lousy weather. 

Some time may also need to be spent moving displaced furniture or belongings. Dealing with these problems is made easier with the use of units at a long and short-term storage facility (depending on the duration of your work). Rather than cluttering up other rooms for weeks or months, moving those items into a climate and access-controlled space can make life easier for everyone in your home.

4. Understand the Work that Happens Before the Remodeling Process

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Before the contractors and remodeling professionals (if you’re outsourcing labor) start to work, you'll need to make sure the space being remodeled is ready for them. As you’re packing up belongings and small items, use the time to declutter and get rid of things you haven't thought about or used in years. Donate items that are in good condition to a local charity for those in need. Items that can't be donated can be recycled or put out with the trash. 

You'll also want to do some research and understand what types of building permits and inspections your city or town requires. Laws differ from one municipality to the next, but typically, more extensive projects such as building an addition, garage, or installing a new HVAC system will require a permit. Smaller remodeling jobs such as painting interior rooms, or changing fixtures and appliances do not. Your local permit office will be able to tell you what is required.

5.  Take the Time to Contract Reputable Remodeling Experts and Quality Building Suppliers

Nothing can ruin remodeling plans faster than fly-by-night contractors or poor-quality building supplies. Take the time to ask friends and co-workers for references for reputable remodeling experts in your local area. Interview several different companies before making a decision. Evaluate each on qualities such as the satisfaction of previous customers, how they will communicate with you, and the clarity of their explanations. Look at photos of remodeling projects that have been completed in the past to identify their level of craftsmanship and get their feedback on your budget for the project. You want to make sure you have 100% trust and confidence in the team you hire.

When it comes to your project's building supplies, fixtures, and appliances, you also want to invest in the best quality that your budget will allow for. Ensure you or your contractor source all materials from vendors that sell products meeting the highest quality standards. Also, be aware of your state's warranty regulations for all purchased goods. These laws vary, but they'll offer you a certain degree of protection in the event something malfunctions or breaks through no fault of your own.

Finally, if your remodeling project is substantial and will involve multiple contractors, workers, and interior designers coming to your home, you may want to consider purchasing and installing a key lockbox or "smart" door hardware. This way, you don't have to wait at home to let every person in and out of your house whenever they come by to work.

Starting a home remodeling project can be a fantastic way to freshen up a tired or outdated living space. When you take the time to plan your project, you'll be prepared for every step of the process. In no time at all, you'll be enjoying your new space – and thinking about the next project you want to tackle.

About the Author: Carolyn Mitchell is a freelance writer and content strategist with a passion for home décor and maintenance. She can often be found re-painting and updating the furnishings in her home, and she is also a dedicated cat mom to two adorable kitties.

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Shaker Kitchens: A Timeless Trend

Combining sleek elegance and functional simplicity, Shaker style kitchens have stood the test of time for over two centuries. An emphasis on quality craftsmanship and classic style cements these kitchens as a firm favorite among kitchen designers. In our latest article, we take a closer look at the Shaker kitchen trend and what makes it so enduring.

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Combining sleek elegance and functional simplicity, Shaker style kitchens have stood the test of time for over two centuries. An emphasis on quality craftsmanship and classic style cements these kitchens as a firm favorite among kitchen designers. In our latest article, we take a closer look at the Shaker kitchen trend and what makes it so enduring.

A History of Shaker Style

The Shaker style originated in the mid 18th century. Its creators were a small religious sect which emerged from the Quakers. The group, known to many as ‘Shakers’ prized honesty, simplicity and utility as core values amongst their community. Many embraced communal living and self sufficient practices, growing their own food and making their own furniture.   

‘Beauty Rests on Utility

A popular Shaker maxim, ‘beauty rests on utility’ depicts the Shaker belief that simple is stylish. And that too much adornment is a show of ‘pride’. Instead of lavish ornamentation, Shakers focused on function and the belief that all things should hold a purpose. Their lifestyle avoided unnecessary waste. Off cuts of wood would be used for kindling or making matches. 

Shaker Signature Style: Shaker Cabinets

Perhaps the most well known element of Shaker style is their cabinets. Renowned for their solid, well built cabinets, in particular their doors, these are a key feature in any Shaker kitchen. 

Shaker style cabinet doors will typically comprise a square frame, with panels and rails. Made from robust, locally sourced wood, they are truly built to last. 

Rather than importing wood for their cabinets, Shakers opted for locally sourced materials, preferring woods such as cherry, oak and maple. These woods have the added benefit of the grain showing through paint layers to give that traditional look. 

While the Shakers were known for their love of function and simplicity, their choice in color schemes was certainly not lacking in aesthetic appeal. The original Shaker kitchens used primary colors such as red, yellow, green or blue. Shakers used natural plants and dyes to mix their palettes, which created beautiful naturally inspired tones, providing a welcome contrast to the traditional plain white walls. 

The Importance of Storage

With their desire for function came the importance of adequate storage. They believed that space should be uncluttered (a common theme in modern day minimalism design trends), with everything in its place. Within Shaker design you will find plenty of functional storage. Tables with drawers for cutlery, peg hooks or rails for displaying utensils, dried herbs and cookware and large dressers all feature. In modern day Shaker kitchens, designers use kitchen islands to provide additional storage.

The beauty of the Shaker style kitchen is that it is perfect for both period and modern style properties. The sleek, modern minimalism reminiscent of the contemporary kitchen combined with traditional values and natural materials is the ideal mix. If you are a lover of minimalist or Scandinavian style design, both of these have been heavily influenced by Shaker style. 

Key Elements of a Shaker Kitchen

Neutral Colors

To start with, a Shaker kitchen needs a neutral color base on which to build. Most designers prefer classic or warm white, as it perfectly complements the overall style and makes the most of natural light. However, others have been known to opt for darker colors such as navy for their kitchen backdrop.

Sturdy Cabinets

At center stage should be solid timber cabinets, with the classic Shaker style structure. Oak is a sturdy, reliable wood that will stand the test of time, while acting as a perfect base for your chosen color scheme. 

Color Contrast

Many Shakers chose to leave their cabinets unpainted, instead just oiling them. However, if you desire a little more color, be sure to pick a contrasting shade to your white walls. Opt for earthy tones, like the Shakers themselves. Alternatively, go bold with a darker, more dramatic shade. Deep navy and forest green are popular seasonal color trends. 

Natural Materials

When it comes to worktops, solid, natural materials are best. Stone, marble or granite are all popular choices. While another stylish option is wood such as oak or walnut. 

Simple living and beauty in functionality. Shaker style is sophisticated and timeless - built to last.  

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Guest Post - How To Select The Right Interior Design Services?

It can be quite intimidating if you are looking for the best interior designing company in your city. With so many agencies available these days, you have a wide range of options when it comes to selecting the best agencies. You will meet employees of different companies, and it is going to get confusing at the end of the day. So, to help you out, we have jotted down some brilliant tips that will help you select the right interior design services.

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It can be quite intimidating if you are looking for the best interior designing company in your city. With so many agencies available these days, you have a wide range of options when it comes to selecting the best agencies. You will meet employees of different companies, and it is going to get confusing at the end of the day. So, to help you out, we have jotted down some brilliant tips that will help you select the right interior design services. 

Finding The Best Interior Design Services In 2021

Here are some helpful tips which can help you find the best designer services right now.

  • What Are Your Goals - First things first, you must understand your own goals and objectives for the interiors you are planning to redesign? You can get a successful and satisfying result only when you are sure about what you are looking for. Evaluate the points you want to cover and how you would want the company to help you out. Having a solid plan for the project you are into is going to make it easier for the service team to help you.

  • What Skills Do You Want - Once you have chalked down the perfect plan for your project, you would want to discover the skills you need? Have a basic knowledge and understanding of the project. Find out which skills will be necessary to accomplish the project. When you have a fair idea about the right skills you need, you will find it easier to get hold of interior design services.

  • Be Creative - If you are creative about your project, then the service team will automatically understand your needs. Provide them with samples and details about the kind of work you are looking for. Understanding the creative process is essential to get the best interior design services. You can talk with different teams and check how they perceive your project and if that matches with your viewpoint or not.

  • Do Not Rely On Portfolios - When you are looking for good interior design services, you must not rely on portfolios alone. Instead of checking only the portfolios, you must discuss your ideas and creative process with the design team. Only then you can have the ability to make a better decision. Not every team you meet will match with the kind of thoughts you have for the project. Having a face-to-face talk with the team will help you get a first-hand idea about how the team is going to work.

  • Video Chat Interview - Due to the hard times, thanks to the pandemic, you can ask for a video chat interview with the interior design services team. Having a chat with the team upfront allows you to read their expressions, understand their viewpoints and how they are going to work in the coming days. Use Skype or Hangouts to video call the team and have a group meeting. You can share concepts and ideas with the team on this chat and discuss your future.

So, here are some amazing tips that will help you find the best interior design services in your city.

Final Words - Finding the right design team can be a bit difficult at the beginning. However, if you can take out some time and do the things we have mentioned in this blog, you can get a lot of help. Visit the different designer teams in your city and find out how they can help you. We hope you get the best interior design services with ease and complete your project easily.

Author Bio: Alyssa Moylan is an ordinary woman from Australia, a writer by day and a reader by night. She writes on various topics like home improvement, business, lifestyle, health, travel and fashion. She likes to think of ways on how to solve daily life problems of people. Follow her on Twitter to stay updated.

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4 Ways to Increase the Curb Appeal of Your Home This Spring

Whether you're on a budget or have some extra money to spend, you can easily enhance your home's curb appeal. For example, you can keep the yard clean, paint the house, or place a small chair on your porch. Here are a few more effective ways to increase the curb appeal of your home this spring.

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Whether you're on a budget or have some extra money to spend, you can easily enhance your home's curb appeal. For example, you can keep the yard clean, paint the house, or place a small chair on your porch. Here are a few more effective ways to increase the curb appeal of your home this spring.

Add a Doormat for Positivity

Doormats can be useful for showing visitors they're welcome at your house. Besides this, doormats are often inexpensive and attractive in appearance. In fact, they come in unique designs, colors, and shapes. To inspire positivity in your visitors, you can choose a doormat with a message such as "Hello", "Home Sweet Home" or "Yay! You're Here!", among many others. 

Upgrade Roofing

A residential roofing contractor can help you improve your curb appeal by installing a new roof. If you live in an older home, this will especially make a big difference. Notice if you have any missing shingles that need to be replaced as well. Using new roofing materials can add value and completely change the look of your home. 

Hang Up a Seasonal Wreath

Decorating your front door can create a pleasant environment, especially if you hang up a seasonal wreath. You can either learn to do it yourself by using an online tutorial, or purchase one locally or online. There are wreaths created with beautiful flowers, nature-inspired leaves, pretty bows, and more.

Utilize Plants to Your Advantage

Trees and shrubs can add some greenery to your yard, while flowers tend to brighten up the home in the best way. Another idea is to plant a native garden. Native gardens are healthy for the environment and give insects and animals a home and food. If you plant shrubs, be sure to keep them trimmed properly for neatness.

Paint the Front Door a Bright Color

Since the front door is one of the first things people will see when they visit your home, it only makes sense to give it an upgrade. Consider painting it a color that reminds you of spring such as a bright blue, yellow, pink, or green hue. Adding color can create charm and beauty in a stand-out way. Further, using paint is an inexpensive way to make stylish home improvements.

Other ideas include adding porch curtains, a front door mailbox, new house numbers, and others. Instead of overwhelming yourself with everything you have to do to improve your home's curb appeal, try pacing yourself by changing things once a week or a few times a month. By doing this, you'll still see the changes you want without putting excessive pressure on yourself. You can also get your family involved by asking them for their valuable input.

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