Paul DeFeis is senior managing partner at Trade Mark Design & Build, based in Hawthorne, New Jersey. Here he discusses the many benefits a design-build company can offer homeowners, and gives advice on everything from choosing a kitchen cabinet to asking your contractor to obtain a building permit for you.
What is Design-Build?
Don’t rely on one contractor to find and manage hundreds of little guys when you’re carrying out a home renovation project. Why not have someone who can do everything, which is what a design-build firm can offer?
What is a Design and Build Company?
It can be described as home renovation one-stop shopping, with everything you need under one roof. A design-build company can save you time and money with this unique approach, so read on to learn more.
Top Design Build Questions Answered
Did you know that a good design-build company can assist with a home renovation project from beginning to end? If not, you’re not alone. Here, we answer all your top questions about what’s involved and explain why this sort of company could be your best home renovation option.
Benefits of Design Build
Enhanced communication between you and your contractor and increased accountability are just two of the benefits a design-build company can offer. Read on to find out more.
Remodeling: Get What You Pay For
Most people don’t realize that when it comes to home renovations, more than anything else you are paying for time. That’s why it makes sense to get in the best people around to help you with your project – otherwise everything might not go according to plan.
What to Look For in a Remodeler
A competent home renovation expert should be able to do everything for you, from conceptualizing your project in the beginning to installation to after-care. If they can’t, look somewhere else - as this article explains.
Having Your Contractor Get Your Building Permits
It makes a lot of sense to have your contractor get all the building permits you need when carrying out a home renovation project. He will be much more familiar with the system and can save you time and money.
Why to Not Get Your Own Building Permit
Don’t be lured into the false sense of security you might envision getting your own building permits would provide. You will actually not be saving money – and in the long run you could be pulling your hair out in frustration as well!
Creating a Kitchen or Bathroom Project Budget
Many of us dream of having a brand new bathroom or kitchen, but coming up with a realistic budget is out of our reach. This guide will help you plan that big renovation project.
Designing a New Kitchen
When thinking about a new kitchen, it’s important to look at your everyday cooking, dining and shopping habits. Then decide where to put the appliances. And don’t forget the kitchen sink, as this helpful article points out.
Designing a New Bathroom
Keep in mind what a bathroom will be used for when planning its design. Adult baths, kids’ baths and guest baths all have different requirements and needs, so play it safe and read on.
What to Look for When Choosing Cabinets
It’s harder to choose a cabinet than you think. Domestic or foreign wood? Solid wood or veneers? What about the warranty? This handy guide will help you make an informed decision.
Choosing a Kitchen Cabinet Finish
Don’t choose a book by its cover – but choose a kitchen cabinet by its finish (as well as other things). Don’t just look at what you like. Think about how the cabinet finish will age over time. Here we point out what to consider when investing in a decent kitchen cabinet finish.
Stock Cabinets vs Custom Cabinets
Durability should be your number one consideration when it comes to choosing a kitchen cabinet. If you stint on quality now, you’ll pay for it later, as this article points out.
Boosting the Value of Your House with a Home Improvement
Getting the best bang for the buck is really what home improvements are all about. Here you can learn what improvements can boost the resale value of your home, and why new kitchens and bathrooms always get the highest return on resale.
Installing a Wine Cellar in Your Home
Whether you’re a serious wine connoisseur or just want to have a tiny tasting room to impress guests, investing in a wine cellar or wine room is always a good idea. How much you spend will depend on your own wine needs, as well as whether you need hi-tech refrigeration or not.
Building a Home Library
Home libraries not only are a great way to keep your books safe, but can also help families get better organized. And new-style media rooms often become the most popular focal points in the house.
Building a Home Bar
The 197Os-style bars are gone, and in their place are sleek, smooth home bars in which any homeowner would be proud to serve a martini. Let us show you how it’s done.
Installing a Home Theater
There’s no need to actually drive to the movie theater when you can see new releases at home. Some people even install popcorn machines and – wait for it – ticket booths in their home theaters. Read all about it.
Easy-to-Use Home Automation Technology
Simplify your life – and your family’s – with easy-to-use home automation technology that will make your friends and neighbors jealous. Whether you want to turn on lights, set the temperature or play a film, it’s all at the flick of a switch.
