Like many people I have a kitchen that is much smaller than I would like, and there is very little available counter space. I have always tried to increase the feeling of space by not storing too many things on the counter, with some success. But one major contributor to countertop mess that I have not been able to vanquish was the need to store dishwashing tools and sponges on the counters. These are tools that need to be kept [...]
DIY renovations are a financial necessity for many of us, especially in this tough economic climate. Doing your own repairs and home improvements not only saves money but also adds to the value of a home. I have come to realize, however, that there are many ways in which DIY can make you a better person. Here’s how: Increased Strength and Stamina While it would be ridiculous to claim that renovations work is kind to the body, it does bestow [...]
When most people design of their project, one of the most fundamental steps is often overlooked: the Needs Analysis. This is one of the most important steps in planning, and yet most people haven’t even heard of it. A needs analysis is a process of discovery through questions and answers that seeks to fully ascertain the purpose of the room, and the different kind of people the room needs to work for. In “Bathrooms – Just Add Water”, Terence Conran [...]
There are lots of great reasons to renovate, but your ultimate success will be defined by how well you really understand what you are truly trying to achieve. You may start out thinking you want to change something for one reason, but later learn that the real problem is something else. Creating a statement of purpose is the first step in ensuring you have the correct definition of the problem(s). For example, you may say in your Statement of Purpose: [...]
Before any renovation can move into the construction phase, there has to be a plan in place – even if it’s all in your head. A plan needs two basic parts: a design for what you’re going to do, and a schedule of events that links the order of tasks in a way that makes sense. The schedule is dependent on the design. Planning a renovation or construction project, therefore, combines the skill sets of interior designers and project managers. [...]
Making the Decision A kitchen renovation is one of the most difficult projects a DIYer can attempt. With structural, plumbing, wiring and carpentry components, kitchen renos are definitely a complex undertaking. The inconvenience during the project is at a maximum as well: a whole new strategy for food preparation and clean-up has to be devised (dishes in the bathtub, anyone?). Sometimes, just getting to the point where you can start a project that you really want to do can be [...]
One of the most tempting options in home renovations is to remove an entire wall. The advantages are manifold: Simplify the floor plan to create a more spacious feeling to the area, Open the layout to light from more directions, Increase traffic flow options. You are limited by whether or not the wall is structural (or “load bearing”) or not. In a nutshell, if a wall is holding up the floor above it, or the roof, you can’t remove it [...]
While talented tradespeople are well worth the money, for many people hiring a team to design and build a renovation project is financially out of reach. Before you start a project, however, it is important to think ahead and decide if you have what it takes to undertake a major project by yourself. In my opinion, here is what you need: Patience – this is the one thing that will make or break you. Almost any renovation project will mean [...]