Five Essential Tips for Your Home Renovation
A well-executed renovation will improve the functionality of your house, increase your enjoyment of the space and provide a return on investment. With proper planning, it is possible to create a welcoming, comfortable space that is both beautiful and functional, without going over budget.
Every renovation project is different, but there are key elements to remember when speaking with your Aiken SC general contractor about your plans for improvement.
Style
Understand your style and communicate it to your contractor from the start. If you aren’t sure of your style, play attention to homes and products you like online or in magazines. If you like something in a friend or family member’s home, ask if you can take a few photos. You’re likely to start noticing trends or commonalities in each of the spaces you are drawn to. If you are feeling stuck, some contractors will refer you to a professional designer or they may have a designer on staff.
Room Size
When adding on an addition or removing interior walls, it is important to remember that the space will look different in real life than on paper. When resizing a space, keep in mind how big the furniture will be and how the room will be used. When possible, determine the intended layout of your furniture and measure to ensure it will fit in the new space. When it comes to room size, bigger isn’t always better!
Traffic Flow
When renovating space, it is important to consider traffic flow. Pay attention to how your family uses your current space. Is there a high-traffic area that would benefit from more space? Is there dead space that can be optimized or eliminated altogether? Would you like a more open concept or do you need a walled space for an office, studio or music room? Share your insights with your contractor. A good general contractor will help you translate your findings into a functional space.
Lighting
Lighting decisions may be required depending on the size and scope of your project and the available natural light. Lighting is a key component of setting the mood and ambiance in the room. It also influences the color scheme and decor. Discuss with your contractor which lighting options should be used for your project.
Structural Modifications
Structural modifications are typically the largest expense in a home renovation. A knowledgeable contractor will help you determine which structural modifications will give you the biggest bang for your buck. For example, if your roof line is low, spending the money to vault a ceiling may not be worth the expense. Contractors will also help you understand which structural modifications are necessary to support your renovation (such as a beam to replace a load-bearing wall) and which are required to meet current building codes. Communicate all desired structural changes during your initial consultation, so your contractor can include them in the design plan and the scope of work.
Are you looking for an experienced general contractor to help with your home renovations?
Some people build their dream homes, while others turn their current home into their dream space. In either situation, Dogwood Construction is here to help! We are available for custom home builds, interior home renovation projects, home additions, outdoor space construction, or total renovations. With a designer on staff and more than a decade of general contracting experience, we can help you create a functional and beautiful space. Contact us today to learn more about our approach or to schedule a consultation. Dogwood Construction serves clients across the greater Aiken County SC area.