When you’re about to undergo a renovation, focus on the following to get off to a good start:
Keep an idea notebook of cut-outs, ads and other descriptions of design, details and ideas that suit your taste. Go through it thoroughly with your architect. Don’t just show pictures; explain why you like it and what you’re trying to achieve.
Be sure you know (and agree with your partner) on taste! What warms your heart? Clean and modern lines . . . classical detail and character . . . totally eclectic design . . . a mix . . . ?
Interview several architects and contractors. Don’t select on lowest price alone! If the price seems too high, be sure you understand how the price was estimated. Most professionals will negotiate their services by reducing the scope of your job in square footage or finishing treatments or some other element.
Clarify the range of services that each professional is bidding on as the range of base services can vary a great deal with each professional.
You’ll find that each of these elements will raise more questions. Always be sure to ask for a detailed explanation of anything you’re not sure you understand. It will save you a lot of frustration and “I didn’t know that’s what you were talking about” down the road.
Contact Ed via ed@snoety.com
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