An existing outdated back porch structure was removed and replaced with a larger outdoor living area designed to truly fit this family’s current lifestyle. It encompasses the entire back of the house with a low sloping vaulted ceiling and is accessible from all spaces. Special emphasis was given to the kitchen area where grandchildren participate in cooking the catch of the day from family fishing trips! Dining and sitting spaces are also provided with a fireplace that can be viewed through French doors from the Living Room. The master suite is updated with a modernized bathroom that features a walk-in tub and a large accessible shower.

4 Steps to Achieving a Rewarding Cost Effective Home Renovation 1 Home Renovation an Introduction A home renovation due to changes in family needs and space requirements can be a challenging, but also a rewarding experience. As a homeowner, gathering and coordinating resources and possibly help from professional consultants are required. Once the construction phase has started, patience, endurance and commitment to follow through are necessary. Despite the challenges, the rewards of a well-planned and successfully completed project are meaningful, adding aesthetic and economic value, also providing the opportunity to personalize a home, encompassing the function, comfort and aesthetics to accommodate individual taste and lifestyle. A renovation of an existing home is a viable alternative to moving or building a new home, assuming that a home is structurally sound, the expenditure to enlarge or improve can be a cost effective alternative. A home possessing charm, style, historical significance, established landscaping or an exceptional location could be a significant motivation to consider purchasing another home with the intent to renovate. The complexity of a project could be relatively simple, changing the use of a room, consolidating two rooms into one, or opening up a room to the outdoors. It could also be a more involved task requiring planning, design and construction documents to build a second floor addition, the addition of a new wing or completely gutting the interior. Some projects could be completed in a weekend’s work or more complex projects, using a “Master Plan”, a plan which provides overall guidance; a renovation can be accomplished all at once or divided into manageable projects over a period of time. With the home evolving gradually allowing the renovation to be planned, timed and tailored to meet individual needs and circumstances. The due diligence phase should precede the decision to renovate whether it’s an existing home or a home that is purchased with the intent to renovate. The due diligence phase will reveal the factors affecting the nature and scope of the project or if a renovation makes sense. Every renovation project is unique relative to personal requirements, architectural style & construction type. This guide will be helpful in developing an understanding of the preliminary groundwork required to realize a successful project. If properly planned, a home renovation project can be a positive and rewarding experience resulting in a comfortable, practical and an attractive living environment. The first step of the planning process is documenting the goals and long-range plans referred to as the “Project Program”. This will dictate the nature, scope and feasibility of the project. Providing a guide to achieving defined goals, the timing or phasing of the project and budget required to achieve the desired end result. 2 Documenting Existing Conditions Once the “Project Program”, has been established, the next step is to determine what there is to work with. This requires documenting the home’s floor plan and site elements which includes drawing an “as built” floor & site plan consisting of the existing exterior walls, interior rooms, doors, windows, etc. and surrounding site elements, landscape and other significant exterior features. Additionally understanding and noting on the “as built” plan, the structural, mechanical and electrical systems as necessary. Gathering the “existing condition” information defines what there is to work with, creating the framework from which to facilitate and organize the decision making process and develop effective “project program” solutions. 3 Evaluating Existing Conditions The goals and long-range plans have been established, and the existing floor plan and site elements have been documented. Before developing design solutions, the next step is to evaluate existing conditions. The evaluation includes: a detailed analysis of the structural, mechanical and electrical systems, determining the condition of the house, noting functional and aesthetic deficiencies. At the same time recognizing the home’s strengths, assets and evaluating its relationship to its site. The remaining parameters will be defined by the local jurisdiction’s zoning regulations, these regulations will define the “envelope”, within which the proposed project will be required to fit: •required front, side & rear yard setbacks •maximum allowable lot coverage & height The previous three steps have provided the necessary foundation to start the design phase. The goals and long range plans have been established, existing conditions have been documented and the evaluation of what there is to work with are now in place. This will provide the framework from which to facilitate and organize design solutions. The consolidation of this information is manifested in the development of the “Master Plan” which will become the road map by which sound decision-making can be made as a home renovation evolves. Keeping the project, on a linear path, avoiding redundancies and back tracking, on time, within budget, concluding with a well crafted finished product. After all the “up front” research and documentation has been completed, the design phase of the project can now precede, with the creation of diagrammatic design drawings. Organizing interior spaces, taking into account the external elements, prevailing breezes, solar orientation, view, existing outdoor features, etc. Through the development of schematic sketches themes will emerge followed by design development drawings. Wise planning and renovation decisions can save money and time at the same time provide a well crafted finished project. The “Master Plan” provides a strategic path in the planning and decision making process leading to a successful and rewarding home renovation, which will add value and considerable enjoyment, for many years, living in a newly renovated home. By virtue of having gone through these steps, frustrations sometimes encountered during a home renovation will be minimized, allowing the renovation to be a gratifying and rewarding experience. Being aware of the process allows one to become an “Educated Client,” which is worth quite a bit more than one might realize. The uneducated client may not realize the benefit of going through the planning, evaluation and documentation groundwork. He will only realize its benefits after having completed a prior renovation project. This rational approach keeps the design process on a direct path to achieving prescribed goals. 4 Exploring Design Solutions & Developing a Master Plan The previous three steps have provided the necessary foundation to start the design phase. The goals and long range plans have been established, existing conditions have been documented and the evaluation of what there is to work with are now in place. This will provide the framework from which to facilitate and organize design solutions. The consolidation of this information is manifested in the development of the “Master Plan” which will become the road map by which sound decision-making can be made as a home renovation evolves. Keeping the project, on a linear path, avoiding redundancies and back tracking, on time, within budget, concluding with a well crafted finished product. By virtue of having gone through these steps, frustrations sometimes encountered during a home renovation will be minimized, allowing the renovation to be a gratifying and rewarding experience. Being aware of the process allows one to become an “Educated Client,” which is worth quite a bit more than one might realize. The uneducated client may not realize the benefit of going through the planning, evaluation and documentation groundwork. He will only realize its benefits after having completed a prior renovation project. This rational approach keeps the design process on a direct path to achieving prescribed goals. After all the “up front” research and documentation has been completed, the design phase of the project can now precede, with the creation of diagrammatic design drawings. Organizing interior spaces, taking into account the external elements, prevailing breezes, solar orientation, view, existing outdoor features, etc. Through the development of schematic sketches themes will emerge followed by design development drawings. Wise planning and renovation decisions can save money and time at the same time provide a well crafted finished project. The “Master Plan” provides a strategic path in the planning and decision making process leading to a successful and rewarding home renovation, which will add value and considerable enjoyment, for many years, living in a newly renovated home.

Originally built in 1942, my clients loved their home and location, but desperately needed an updated kitchen. As plans of their project took shape, they knew the answer was to expand their square footage during their remodel to make the most of it. We pushed out the back of their home to encompass a larger kitchen and new family room, added a butler’s pantry and mudroom, remodeled the dining room, entry and stairs, and added/enlarged the master bedroom ensuite that sits above the new family room. Their sophisticated aesthetic is showcased throughout their home with beautiful wainscoting, wallpaper, surprise elements, and subtle details of soft ivories, steely blues, and warm woods.

Great pom encompassing living area, kitchen and dining area.
Living room - mid-sized tropical open concept bamboo floor and brown floor living room idea in San Diego with white walls, a wall-mounted tv, a standard fireplace and a stone fireplace

As you step inside the Glenwood Craftsman, you are greeted with an open concept floor plan that brings the kitchen, nook, great room, and sunroom together to create gathering places to cook, dine and lounge. Interior design is focused on luxury fabrics, modern light fixtures and mixed metals, with gold hues. Light, subtle paint shades create a comfortable flow: creams, grays, khaki and gray-blue give the home a soothing mix of warm and cool. The décor is an eclectic concept, meant to match the modern family. In the great room you will find an impressive paneled wall flanking a gas fireplace with stacked stone to the ceiling. The nook leads to the gorgeous sunroom with vaulted ceiling and three full walls of windows. The designer kitchen welcomes you with an oversized quartz topped island with snack bar. Staggered maple cabinets, undercabinet lighting, tile backsplash, and quartz countertops frame the perimeter. Luxurious slate appliances, gold cabinet hardware and a stylish faucet with a gold finish add warmth and sophistication to the room. Off the kitchen, a butler’s pantry with cabinets, quartz countertop and beverage refrigerator offer additional space for entertaining. The butler’s pantry conveniently leads to the beautiful dining room with decorative wainscoting. A study, powder room, and all-encompassing family command center with laundry, closet, cabinets, built-in desk and boot bench complete the first floor. Located on the second floor, the master suite showcases an expansive bedroom with box up ceiling bordered with crown molding, walk-in tiled shower with bench and decorative niche, his-and-hers floating vanities with quartz countertops, separate commode room, tile flooring, and large custom walk-in closet. A princess suite with a full bath and two additional bedrooms connected by a jack and jill bath complete the second floor. The finished lower level offers a rec room with a gaming focus, additional bedroom, and full bathroom perfect for guests.

Originally built in 1942, my clients loved their home and location, but desperately needed an updated kitchen. As plans of their project took shape, they knew the answer was to expand their square footage during their remodel to make the most of it. We pushed out the back of their home to encompass a larger kitchen and new family room, added a butler’s pantry and mudroom, remodeled the dining room, entry and stairs, and added/enlarged the master bedroom ensuite that sits above the new family room. Their sophisticated aesthetic is showcased throughout their home with beautiful wainscoting, wallpaper, surprise elements, and subtle details of soft ivories, steely blues, and warm woods.

Originally built in 1942, my clients loved their home and location, but desperately needed an updated kitchen. As plans of their project took shape, they knew the answer was to expand their square footage during their remodel to make the most of it. We pushed out the back of their home to encompass a larger kitchen and new family room, added a butler’s pantry and mudroom, remodeled the dining room, entry and stairs, and added/enlarged the master bedroom ensuite that sits above the new family room. Their sophisticated aesthetic is showcased throughout their home with beautiful wainscoting, wallpaper, surprise elements, and subtle details of soft ivories, steely blues, and warm woods.

Originally built in 1942, my clients loved their home and location, but desperately needed an updated kitchen. As plans of their project took shape, they knew the answer was to expand their square footage during their remodel to make the most of it. We pushed out the back of their home to encompass a larger kitchen and new family room, added a butler’s pantry and mudroom, remodeled the dining room, entry and stairs, and added/enlarged the master bedroom ensuite that sits above the new family room. Their sophisticated aesthetic is showcased throughout their home with beautiful wainscoting, wallpaper, surprise elements, and subtle details of soft ivories, steely blues, and warm woods.

Originally built in 1942, my clients loved their home and location, but desperately needed an updated kitchen. As plans of their project took shape, they knew the answer was to expand their square footage during their remodel to make the most of it. We pushed out the back of their home to encompass a larger kitchen and new family room, added a butler’s pantry and mudroom, remodeled the dining room, entry and stairs, and added/enlarged the master bedroom ensuite that sits above the new family room. Their sophisticated aesthetic is showcased throughout their home with beautiful wainscoting, wallpaper, surprise elements, and subtle details of soft ivories, steely blues, and warm woods.

This gorgeous deck is built from pressure-treated pine that has been stained. The flowing multi-level design features a centerpiece of twin staircases leading from the landing to the upper-level deck. The deck encompasses the entire back of the home with ample area for rocking chair relaxation, outdoor dining and entertaining and 360-degree views of tranquil Lake Murray from every angle.

As you step inside the Glenwood Craftsman, you are greeted with an open concept floor plan that brings the kitchen, nook, great room, and sunroom together to create gathering places to cook, dine and lounge. Interior design is focused on luxury fabrics, modern light fixtures and mixed metals, with gold hues. Light, subtle paint shades create a comfortable flow: creams, grays, khaki and gray-blue give the home a soothing mix of warm and cool. The décor is an eclectic concept, meant to match the modern family. In the great room you will find an impressive paneled wall flanking a gas fireplace with stacked stone to the ceiling. The nook leads to the gorgeous sunroom with vaulted ceiling and three full walls of windows. The designer kitchen welcomes you with an oversized quartz topped island with snack bar. Staggered maple cabinets, undercabinet lighting, tile backsplash, and quartz countertops frame the perimeter. Luxurious slate appliances, gold cabinet hardware and a stylish faucet with a gold finish add warmth and sophistication to the room. Off the kitchen, a butler’s pantry with cabinets, quartz countertop and beverage refrigerator offer additional space for entertaining. The butler’s pantry conveniently leads to the beautiful dining room with decorative wainscoting. A study, powder room, and all-encompassing family command center with laundry, closet, cabinets, built-in desk and boot bench complete the first floor. Located on the second floor, the master suite showcases an expansive bedroom with box up ceiling bordered with crown molding, walk-in tiled shower with bench and decorative niche, his-and-hers floating vanities with quartz countertops, separate commode room, tile flooring, and large custom walk-in closet. A princess suite with a full bath and two additional bedrooms connected by a jack and jill bath complete the second floor. The finished lower level offers a rec room with a gaming focus, additional bedroom, and full bathroom perfect for guests.

Originally built in 1942, my clients loved their home and location, but desperately needed an updated kitchen. As plans of their project took shape, they knew the answer was to expand their square footage during their remodel to make the most of it. We pushed out the back of their home to encompass a larger kitchen and new family room, added a butler’s pantry and mudroom, remodeled the dining room, entry and stairs, and added/enlarged the master bedroom ensuite that sits above the new family room. Their sophisticated aesthetic is showcased throughout their home with beautiful wainscoting, wallpaper, surprise elements, and subtle details of soft ivories, steely blues, and warm woods.

This gorgeous deck is built from pressure-treated pine that has been stained. The flowing multi-level design features a centerpiece of twin staircases leading from the landing to the upper-level deck. The deck encompasses the entire back of the home with ample area for rocking chair relaxation, outdoor dining and entertaining and 360-degree views of tranquil Lake Murray from every angle.

An existing outdated back porch structure was removed and replaced with a larger outdoor living area designed to truly fit this family’s current lifestyle. It encompasses the entire back of the house with a low sloping vaulted ceiling and is accessible from all spaces. Special emphasis was given to the kitchen area where grandchildren participate in cooking the catch of the day from family fishing trips! Dining and sitting spaces are also provided with a fireplace that can be viewed through French doors from the Living Room. The master suite is updated with a modernized bathroom that features a walk-in tub and a large accessible shower.

As you step inside the Glenwood Craftsman, you are greeted with an open concept floor plan that brings the kitchen, nook, great room, and sunroom together to create gathering places to cook, dine and lounge. Interior design is focused on luxury fabrics, modern light fixtures and mixed metals, with gold hues. Light, subtle paint shades create a comfortable flow: creams, grays, khaki and gray-blue give the home a soothing mix of warm and cool. The décor is an eclectic concept, meant to match the modern family. In the great room you will find an impressive paneled wall flanking a gas fireplace with stacked stone to the ceiling. The nook leads to the gorgeous sunroom with vaulted ceiling and three full walls of windows. The designer kitchen welcomes you with an oversized quartz topped island with snack bar. Staggered maple cabinets, undercabinet lighting, tile backsplash, and quartz countertops frame the perimeter. Luxurious slate appliances, gold cabinet hardware and a stylish faucet with a gold finish add warmth and sophistication to the room. Off the kitchen, a butler’s pantry with cabinets, quartz countertop and beverage refrigerator offer additional space for entertaining. The butler’s pantry conveniently leads to the beautiful dining room with decorative wainscoting. A study, powder room, and all-encompassing family command center with laundry, closet, cabinets, built-in desk and boot bench complete the first floor. Located on the second floor, the master suite showcases an expansive bedroom with box up ceiling bordered with crown molding, walk-in tiled shower with bench and decorative niche, his-and-hers floating vanities with quartz countertops, separate commode room, tile flooring, and large custom walk-in closet. A princess suite with a full bath and two additional bedrooms connected by a jack and jill bath complete the second floor. The finished lower level offers a rec room with a gaming focus, additional bedroom, and full bathroom perfect for guests.

As you step inside the Glenwood Craftsman, you are greeted with an open concept floor plan that brings the kitchen, nook, great room, and sunroom together to create gathering places to cook, dine and lounge. Interior design is focused on luxury fabrics, modern light fixtures and mixed metals, with gold hues. Light, subtle paint shades create a comfortable flow: creams, grays, khaki and gray-blue give the home a soothing mix of warm and cool. The décor is an eclectic concept, meant to match the modern family. In the great room you will find an impressive paneled wall flanking a gas fireplace with stacked stone to the ceiling. The nook leads to the gorgeous sunroom with vaulted ceiling and three full walls of windows. The designer kitchen welcomes you with an oversized quartz topped island with snack bar. Staggered maple cabinets, undercabinet lighting, tile backsplash, and quartz countertops frame the perimeter. Luxurious slate appliances, gold cabinet hardware and a stylish faucet with a gold finish add warmth and sophistication to the room. Off the kitchen, a butler’s pantry with cabinets, quartz countertop and beverage refrigerator offer additional space for entertaining. The butler’s pantry conveniently leads to the beautiful dining room with decorative wainscoting. A study, powder room, and all-encompassing family command center with laundry, closet, cabinets, built-in desk and boot bench complete the first floor. Located on the second floor, the master suite showcases an expansive bedroom with box up ceiling bordered with crown molding, walk-in tiled shower with bench and decorative niche, his-and-hers floating vanities with quartz countertops, separate commode room, tile flooring, and large custom walk-in closet. A princess suite with a full bath and two additional bedrooms connected by a jack and jill bath complete the second floor. The finished lower level offers a rec room with a gaming focus, additional bedroom, and full bathroom perfect for guests.

Originally built in 1942, my clients loved their home and location, but desperately needed an updated kitchen. As plans of their project took shape, they knew the answer was to expand their square footage during their remodel to make the most of it. We pushed out the back of their home to encompass a larger kitchen and new family room, added a butler’s pantry and mudroom, remodeled the dining room, entry and stairs, and added/enlarged the master bedroom ensuite that sits above the new family room. Their sophisticated aesthetic is showcased throughout their home with beautiful wainscoting, wallpaper, surprise elements, and subtle details of soft ivories, steely blues, and warm woods.

As you step inside the Glenwood Craftsman, you are greeted with an open concept floor plan that brings the kitchen, nook, great room, and sunroom together to create gathering places to cook, dine and lounge. Interior design is focused on luxury fabrics, modern light fixtures and mixed metals, with gold hues. Light, subtle paint shades create a comfortable flow: creams, grays, khaki and gray-blue give the home a soothing mix of warm and cool. The décor is an eclectic concept, meant to match the modern family. In the great room you will find an impressive paneled wall flanking a gas fireplace with stacked stone to the ceiling. The nook leads to the gorgeous sunroom with vaulted ceiling and three full walls of windows. The designer kitchen welcomes you with an oversized quartz topped island with snack bar. Staggered maple cabinets, undercabinet lighting, tile backsplash, and quartz countertops frame the perimeter. Luxurious slate appliances, gold cabinet hardware and a stylish faucet with a gold finish add warmth and sophistication to the room. Off the kitchen, a butler’s pantry with cabinets, quartz countertop and beverage refrigerator offer additional space for entertaining. The butler’s pantry conveniently leads to the beautiful dining room with decorative wainscoting. A study, powder room, and all-encompassing family command center with laundry, closet, cabinets, built-in desk and boot bench complete the first floor. Located on the second floor, the master suite showcases an expansive bedroom with box up ceiling bordered with crown molding, walk-in tiled shower with bench and decorative niche, his-and-hers floating vanities with quartz countertops, separate commode room, tile flooring, and large custom walk-in closet. A princess suite with a full bath and two additional bedrooms connected by a jack and jill bath complete the second floor. The finished lower level offers a rec room with a gaming focus, additional bedroom, and full bathroom perfect for guests.

Originally built in 1942, my clients loved their home and location, but desperately needed an updated kitchen. As plans of their project took shape, they knew the answer was to expand their square footage during their remodel to make the most of it. We pushed out the back of their home to encompass a larger kitchen and new family room, added a butler’s pantry and mudroom, remodeled the dining room, entry and stairs, and added/enlarged the master bedroom ensuite that sits above the new family room. Their sophisticated aesthetic is showcased throughout their home with beautiful wainscoting, wallpaper, surprise elements, and subtle details of soft ivories, steely blues, and warm woods.