Renovating: Time for a New Look
It may be as simple as an updated kitchen or as complex as a total redesign of a floor plan, but you’ve decided it is time to renovate. As with new construction, it is important to start off on the right foot so that you obtain a result you’re pleased with.
To start, take your time. Review your existing floor plan for an overall perspective. Study the space you wish to change, observe traffic patterns and think about what it is you want to accomplish with your renovation. Draw a scaled floor plan of the existing structure.
When determining what to change, save things with sentimental value, things that represent good construction and things that are expressive of a traditional character. Then, your renovation should match in detail, colors and materials the original structure and design. A good architect will ensure that the new construction so closely matches the original construction that it is almost impossible to tell where the old structure leaves off and the new one begins. A good renovation will leave the finished building richer in content of exterior forms, more visually pleasing and more suitable to the owner’s needs.
When doing a major renovation, be careful not to overbuild. Consider the market appeal of the existing structure and what you stand to gain with a major renovation. Depending on the surrounding homes, it may not be economically feasible to invest a large amount of money in your home unless emotion and sentiment play a large part in the renovation. Sometimes value must be measured in terms other than dollars. Listen to your instincts and convey what you are feeling to your architect as you plan your renovation.
If it is the kitchen you are renovating, consider this: the traditional “triangle” concept (fridge, sink, stove are all points in a triangle) of kitchen design is a thing of the past. Often there is more than one cook in the kitchen and so kitchen design has changed to account for that. Following a “zone” concept, you should consider how you and your “co-cooks” work and arrange the five main work areas – fridge/food storage, sink/clean-up, stove/cooking, food prep and serving centers – accordingly.
Also worth considering: do you need more space, or would better organization of the current space do? Can you put your stand-up freezer and washer/dryer in or near kitchen? Can you afford the convenience of new space-saving storage gadgets?
These are all great and exciting things to think about. However, start by giving serious consideration to what it is you want to change and discussing it with an architect before you proceed. You would hate to have the words, “Why should I use an architect, it’s just a renovation?” ringing in your ears when you are stuck with a failed project. Good design is a necessity and the best way to get it is with a qualified professional.