Archive for Design

Creating a renovation budget: 3 Steps to ensure success

Posted by Sheri on

Saturday, April 20th, 2019

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While creating a renovation budget is not rocket science, it does require skill, knowledge, and manipulation. Ensuring the task list is checked off (known as labour) as well as making sure the functional design is pretty (known as the sourcing), these two key elements are essential to a successful, on-budget renovation.

While it is very common for clients to not really have a good grasp on what things cost, clients do have a very good idea on the investment they wish to make in their home. For me, I really need to know that upfront so the design plan is falling in line with their investment.

Renovation Budget – Step 1 Labour Quotes

When it comes to a renovation budget and managing a renovation, the first step I always carry out is getting quotes from the trades. This is known as the labour budget. When the design is all planned out, it is easy for the trades to work off the plan to provide an accurate quote.

I ALWAYS get labour quotes first as it is typically a good chunk of the budget. As I tell my clients, labour is really non-negotiable. While my trades provide me with very competitive pricing, there really isn’t a lot of wriggle room in the pricing of labour.

Renovation Budget – Step 2 Sourcing Quotes

The next step that I look is at the sourcing budget. I already have a total cost for the labour so I know how much my ‘pretty’ budget can be. This is where I either work closely with the client to make selections that fall within the budget, or I provide options for my clients that I present to them, that will fall within the budget.

There may be areas where we wish to ‘splurge’ while there may be other areas where we can ‘pinch’.

Renovation Budget – Step 3 Finalizing the Budget

This is where 1 + 1 = 2. I put the labour budget together with the product budget which will give me the overall budget for the project.

Labour + Product = Full cost of the renovation.

When the renovation budget is too high?

If the overall budget comes in higher than what is expected, we have choices:

Increase the budget to get it all done.
Reselect product to come in on budget.
Investigate the scope of the project to see where some work can be cut from the project.

Renovation Budget: Bye Bye Basement Example

I am currently working on a project that I’ve called ‘Bye, bye Basement“. For my clients, I am developing their basement in order for them to sell their home. Based off of the real estate agent’s comments, the home will sell quicker if the basement is developed.

When I met with my clients, we walked through the basement and discussed some possible ideas.

In the original plan, we talked about making the entire basement fully finished, which included a separate mechanical room/furnace room, laundry room, bedroom, bathroom, open family room, and a storage room. Here was the original plan:

Some heavy price-tag items on the list were:

Move the hot water tank to be closer to the furnace. As the basement sits now, the hot water tank is in front of the furnace.
Move the plumbing drain from the centre of the space to the mechanical room.
Clean up the electrical panel.
Add a sub panel.
Create a stub wall for the laundry room and finish off the exterior wall where all of the electrical sits.

While there were other items on the list for the electrician and plumber, the list was extensive for both trades.

When the labour quote came in, it was way above what my clients wished to invest in their basement development. So, we went back to the drawing board with the design.

Since the home is an older home, and making sure the new homeowners have access to the plumbing and electrical, we have decided to create one larger laundry room/mechanical room. The cost to move the hot water tank, plumbing drain was coming in at around $2500. That was something that was easy to take off the list without compromising the rest of the basement.

IF my clients were going to stay in the home, we would have proceeded with that option. Since they are getting ready to sell, we will still make the laundry room/mechanical room nice and tidy, but it will be an unfinished room.

We were able to make some other smart, budget choices to come up with the final design plan for the basement. Some minor changes that make the budget work include a smaller closet in the bedroom and no built-in storage units in the bathroom (clients will use existing storage units in this space to stage the home).

Renovation Budgets: Making Smart Decisions

When it comes to renovations, I would love to give all of my clients everything on their wish list and give them their dream. The reality is, we often make compromises. I want you to not think of that word as a swear word. While you may have to make some compromises, the end goal never changes. The goal is always to create a new space that clients will love for many years!

Thinking of an upcoming renovation and wish to discuss your options? Contact us today to chat about working with us!

Kitchen Backsplash Choices: What I went with and WHY

Posted by Sheri on

Saturday, April 6th, 2019

in Design, Interior Design, Kitchen

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As you all know, we have a little project on the go that I’ve called, “Love At First Sight”. You can read about this project here, and here.

I have had a clear design vision for this home right from the start. There has only been one area that has caused me some sleepless nights: the kitchen backsplash!

Kitchen Backsplash

The Design

Here’s a 3D rendering of the entire space.

Kitchen Backsplash Choices

Standing at the front door, you will be able to see this entire space- including the wall of windows. As such, I was thinking that the kitchen backsplash may be a good place to have a little bit of ‘wow’ factor. Here are 3 kitchen backsplash tile ideas that I was looking at.

Choice One

Beautiful black, white, and grey tile with sexy curvy lines.

Choice Two

This was the very first tile I grabbed and held on to. I loved the black and white theme in this tile.

Choice Three

As you can see, this tile is simply white. What drew me to this tile is the shape of the tile.

Kitchen Backsplash: Where people make mistakes

This is exactly where people make mistakes with a kitchen backsplash.

Too often, one may look at a gorgeous tile on it’s own, or an image of some fantastic tile, and think,

I love it, and want it in my home!

Case in point: look at these gorgeous spaces using the tile!

Let’s take a look at the entire space for this kitchen.

Here’s what we already know:

Outer cabinets are a matte white.
Island cabinets are a matte black.

Here’s what else you need to know about this space:

Hardware for the white matte cabinets will be matte black.
The black matte cabinet hardware will be gold.
The pendant lights will be black and gold.
All of the appliances are black stainless steel.
There will be all white quartz counters.

Kitchen Backsplash Decision

Do you see how sexy those pendant lights are? There will be three of these gorgeous beauties going to be installed over the island.

If I was going to pick a kitchen backsplash tile independently and NOT think of the entire space, hands down I was going to pick Euro Ceramic Tile. However, there are other elements in the kitchen that I wish to stand out.

Taking into consideration the entire space, I know any patterned tile will be too much. It will make the space feel too busy and that is not the look I wish to achieve. I also have to make selections that will appeal to numerous potential buyers.

Have you guessed what tile I’m going to go with? Hands down, for this space, it’s the Soho White Tile!

Kitchen Backspalash

Here is one thing to remember about kitchen backsplash tile: do not to pick it independently. Have all of your samples with you: cabinet samples, flooring, hardware, and if you have picked out your lighting, have that in mind as well. You will thank me for it in the end!

Eye Candy

I thought it would be fun to add some sexy lighting and tile choices for you – in case you were in the market for some.

The items below may contain affiliate links. Any purchases, at no additional charge to you, are most appreciated and make this blog possible.

Please note, all of the tile choices below are peel and stick tiles. I have never used a peel and stick tile, but the patterns are super cute and would be great for a DIY project!

Kitchen Cabinets: The difference between custom vs IKEA cabinets

Posted by Sheri on

Saturday, March 23rd, 2019

in Design, Interior Design, Kitchen

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Since January, I have started to work on 6 new kitchen designs. In my past kitchen design work, I have worked with both my custom cabinet company as well as with IKEA. When it comes to looking at kitchen cabinets, what is the difference between custom cabinets vs IKEA cabinets?

difference between custom vs IKEA cabinets

DESIGN

When working on a kitchen renovation (or any renovation for that matter), the design needs to be in place before any pricing can be obtained. The design of the kitchen also needs to be functional. Most clients are having their kitchen remodeled due to it not functioning or being outdated. Here are the differences between custom vs IKEA cabinets.

Custom Cabinetry

I create all of my designs using my 2D and 3D computer software, Chief Architect. Being able to create conceptual designs to show my clients what their kitchen is going to look like is something I love to create. I also love the fact that my cabinet company uses the same software so I can easily send my plans over to them.

With my software, I can make changes quickly and easily, and use any cabinet size that is required. This is especially great when working in tighter spaces that may or may not fit ‘stock’ size cabinets. I can also make any customizations that are needed. For example, one of my clients is looking to have some toe kick pull out drawers. That is customized!

A custom cabinet company will offer a full service which means, they will come out and remeasure once the space has been created (if walls are coming out, etc.). They will also re-check their drawings and if there are any discrepancies, they will address them and look after those for you.

IKEA

I typically end up swearing, at least a half a dozen times, when working with the IKEA software. I find the software so glitchy that I end up having to waste a lot of time.

When it comes to the actual design of the kitchen, IKEA offers ‘stock size’ cabinets. That may mean that a bit of function may be compromised due to the cabinet sizes that are offered. I say, ‘may be’, as it has happened to me in the past. When I could have used a 26 3/8″ base cabinet, I have had to settle for a 24″ base cabinet with a filler. Ugh! You should also note that if there are any measurement discrepancies, you will be on the hook to address those and fix those.

What I do like about IKEA’s software is that it readily can spit out the design and the cost in one click!

IKEA also offers a number of services such as a measuring service and an in-home planning service. These two services are great for the DIY’er who wishes to ensure that they have planned out their kitchen correctly. These services are at a cost.

CHOICES

When the functional design has been solidified, the next step is to make the functional kitchen pretty. There are some pretty significant differences between custom vs IKEA cabinets!

Custom

When you chose custom cabinets, you can have your cake and eat it too! If you have wood cabinets, they can be stained, sprayed any colour, or have some custom finishes (antiquing) done.

IKEA

When it comes to using IKEA cabinets, you only have a certain number of choices to pick from. That includes the style and colour.

There is a company that I can purchase other doors through that will fit on IKEA base cabinets, however, I do not use them for one reason. Most clients will choose IKEA due to budget. The minute you start to change and/or customize, the budget increases.

TIME

Once the design is in place, it’s time to order the cabinets. IKEA wins this hands down when we compare the differences between custom vs IKEA cabinets.

Custom

As a rule of thumb, once the design has been accepted and a deposit has been made, I look at roughly 4-6 weeks for the cabinets to get made. If my cabinet company is swamped or it is a very busy time of year, I may have to wait 6+ weeks.

I know that in advance and plan my construction calendar accordingly.

IKEA

Depending on stock, you can order and pick up your cabinets on the same day! For my projects that use IKEA, I get all of the cabinets delivered. I will often go in about 2 weeks prior to needing the cabinets, place my order, and arrange delivery.

INSTALL

All of the thought has gone into the functional design and picking out the pretty. Now it’s time to actually see the space come into shape! The biggest difference between custom vs IKEA cabinets is the ease of using a custom cabinet maker.

CUSTOM

Oh, how I love it when my cabinet company arrives and I know there will be no issues I have to worry about. I also love knowing that the cabinets come put together! All of the boxes are made and ready to be installed!

Custom cabinet companies have their own installers who do this all.day.long. I am typically onsite to ensure there are not questions, state where the knobs and/or pulls need to be installed, and then let the crew work!

IKEA

When IKEA gets delivered, they are delivered in boxes and are not put together! Prior to having the cabinets installed, you will need to have the cabinets put together. There are three ways to have IKEA kitchens installed.

Put the cabinets together and install them yourself.
Hire a certified IKEA installer to do the work.
Hire someone (a General Contractor or Carpenter) to do the work.

It really doesn’t matter who you choose to look after your cabinets. Any way you pu it, the cabinets need to be put together and installed.

In the past, I had a carpenter put together and install the IKEA cabinets. Now, I strictly use certified IKEA installers. Why? They put together and install IKEA cabinets all the time. They are quick, they are efficient, and a large kitchen can be put together and installed in a couple of days.

A large kitchen may take a carpenter a week or more if they are not used to the IKEA system. My two apartment kitchens will be put together and installed in one day!

An important part to know about is your role during an IKEA install. For the certified IKEA installers I use, I am requested to be on site for the entire time in case the installers need something. This does take up my time to ensure there are no delays in having the cabinets put together and installed.

BUDGET

There are many factors when looking at the budget and determining if IKEA is more cost effective than custom. If you are looking at a full DIY project, there will be a huge difference between custom vs IKEA cabinets. If you are doing a partial DIY or wish to customize anything with IKEA, there may not be a huge difference!

FULL DIY

If you plan to do all of the:

measuring
ordering
accepting the delivery
putting together all of the cabinets
installing all of the cabinets.

IKEA will definitely save you money! The only thing you will need to factor in is the time it will take you.

If you start to engage companies for measuring, putting together and installing the cabinets, adding on any ‘extra features’ like a different crown molding or a furniture kick around your island, then you can expect your budget to increase.

CUSTOM

The entire list above is looked after for you when you go with custom cabinets. While the cost of custom cabinets may be more than a full DIY IKEA kitchen, there isn’t one single thing you have to worry about.

The value of time vs money plays into this. If you value your time, then you will want to hire someone to do the work for you. If you wish to save some money and are comfortable with doing the work, then an IKEA kitchen may be in your future!

Looking to remodel your kitchen? Contact Sheri today to discuss your options!

Spring Ahead: Time to include some beautiful clocks to your home

Posted by Sheri on

Saturday, March 9th, 2019

in Design, Interior Design

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Are you getting ready to move your clocks forward – spring ahead? For those of you who live in Arizona or Hawaii or Saskatchewan, Southampton Island, Nunavut, Quebec’s north shore and Peace River Regional District, B.C., all I have to say is

Lucky bastards!

The older I get, the more I detest the time change. I find it takes me a week to adjust back to the ‘normal’ time when we travel and there is a 3 to 4+ hour time difference!

Summer must be right around the corner if we are getting ready to spring ahead. I’m challenging my inner self to look at the positive. What I love about the time change is being able to change the time on clocks! A little secret you may not know about me? I love clocks and watches. It’s my ‘thing’. Some people have a shoe thing or purse thing – I have a clock/watch thing. I actually have a dedicated Pinterest board for them. Let’s look at a few examples of some pretty, pretty clocks!

Please note this post may contain affiliate links. If you click to buy one of these, I will make a tiny percentage, at no additional cost to you.

Decorate with Clocks: Oversized Wall Clocks

I am a total sucker for large clocks. I mean, the bigger the better! Here are some that caught my eye.

This 60″ clock below is huge! You would definitely need some serious wall space!

What more can I say about this cute pink clock?

Having a large, oversized clock is an easy way to fill up some wall space. Any of the above clocks would make the time change, and spring ahead, more tolerable.

Decorate with Clocks: Table and Desk Clocks

It seems like we are moving away from traditional clocks. You know – the ones with a minute and hour hand? I am still a sucker for clocks and will use them where ever I can!

This little cutie below would be great on a bedside table.

This one with gold and a touch of black…..yummy!

The clock below is just so simple, yet stunning.

This vintage-looking clock below could add a little pop of colour and decor to your space.

Decorate with Clocks: Coffee and End Tables

Clocks are not just for the walls or a flat surface. There are some really neat coffee and end table clocks as well (including one that I own and is located in my office). A few ideas listed below.

Could you spring ahead with this side table?

I love how an accent or side table can be a piece of art like the above.

I have a Pinterest board where I have pinned ideas around decorating with clocks and around clocks.

Decorate with Clocks

Clocks are one way where function and pretty are combined. Adding a clock is one way that I love to help clients decorate a space. The only downfall? The more clocks you have, the more clocks you need to adjust the time when you spring ahead!

I’d love to know your thoughts on clocks. Do you have a favorite? Do you have one that caught your eye that you couldn’t leave the store without?

Black Fixtures in the kitchen and bath were hot, hot, hot at KBIS 2019

Posted by Sheri on

Saturday, March 2nd, 2019

in Bath, Design, Interior Design, Kitchen

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Going to KBIS is always exciting. We get to see the trends, we get to spot new and innovative products, and we always get to give our personal take on things we saw. With our Love At First Sight Project. rolling right along, I had my eyes peeled to see if black fixtures were hot. The entire theme for the home is black and white (including using gold accents for the lighting fixtures). I was super excited to see that black fixtures were hot, hot, hot!

Black Fixtures

As I had black fixtures on my brain, I was happy to see it in full force at KBIS 2019.

Black Fixtures: Shower Doors

It was one year ago that this wall of showers doors was a hit on Instagram.

This year, the trend was simply black – a timeless colour in my personal opinion.

From the simple look, to a more statement piece, Dream Line® offers some amazing options that are simply stunning in just black.

Black Fixtures: Faucets

A matte black finish, along with some new stainless steel black, was easily spotted at KBIS 2019 in the fixture department. From kitchen faucets to bathroom faucets, black was in the house!

Brizo Rook Widespread Lavatory Faucet

One thing I did notice is that most of the black fixtures were against white backgrounds. The white background makes the black fixures just pop! In my recent One Room Challenge, I paired a matte black faucet against white quartz counters and a white sink.

Every time I walk past this bathroom I stop in my tracks!

If you’re looking to add some spice to your spaces, I’ve put together some of my top picks for you.

Now over to you. Would you be so bold to install black finishes?

Please note this post may contain affiliate links. If you click to buy one of these, I will make a tiny percentage, at no additional cost to you.

Creating a Smart Home: Simple home automation solutions

Posted by Sheri on

Friday, February 22nd, 2019

in Bath, Design, Interior Design, Kitchen

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I’ve been home from KBIS 2019 for two days now and scouring through all of my pictures to decide what to report back. As I looked at all of my pictures, there were some consistent themes I saw. One of the most interesting, and a bit scary for this old chick, is home automation. While there have been stories in the news about security breaches, the inclusion of technology in the home is not going away. And while there are pros and cons for everything, I’m going to break down some easier things you can add to your home to be on the path to making it a smart home.

Smart Home – What does that even mean?

According to Android Authority, a smart home is

…a residence equipped with a number of devices that automate tasks normally handled by humans.

Smart Home – Lighting Dimmers/Switches

You all know how I LOVE Legrand’s adorne® collection. This year, I was introduced to another Legrand collection, the radiant® collection. While I won’t go into a lot of detail with this blog (as I’ll be using these in our Love At First Sight project and will dedicate an entire blog to these beauties), here’s a really quick look at these sexy switches!

What I love about Legrand products is that they are sleek looking and can easily replace existing switches. The radiant® smart switches can control lighting, audio, or the entire home.

These switches can be connected via the app from Legrand or by any other smart device (Google, Alexa, etc.)

As I always like to share the pros and cons, I am going to save that for my dedicated blog on these beauties. Stay tuned for this blog!

Smart Home – Plumbing

Yes – you read that correctly. What could there possibly be in the bathroom to make it a smart home? Ohh….let me show you just how many wonderful ways!

Showers

I had the opportunity to take a shower with Moen. I mean, we kept our clothes on (keep it clean people)!

U by Moen has

…forever transformed showering to create a personalized showering experience. Now with three ways to control your smart shower: voice, phone, and controller.

The whole process starts with either choosing 2 or 4 outlets. Let me tell you, if I was to install this little touch of smart home goodness, go for the 4 (better known to my clients as the entire car wash experience).

Creating your dream shower

With Moen’s innovated controller, you can control your shower without ever stepping foot IN the shower. Simply click on the app, adjust your settings, and you’re good to go. With the customization features, you can:

Set a timer enabling you to keep on schedule (and not fall asleep in the shower – yes – my Mr. does that) or shut the shower off (my son – I am looking at you when I write this).
Use the start and pause feature to conserve water. When your shower has heated up to your desired temperature, and you’re not quite ready to hop in, pause the water until you are ready.
Control the temperature before you ever step foot into the shower. No more cold blast of water!
Receive notifications when your shower is ready.

Installation

You would think a shower of this magnitude would need a lot of extra plumbing. I’m here to tell you my friends, that it really isn’t that complicated. Moen put a lot of thought into what goes behind the wall. Here’s a peek at the valve(s) that smartly fit between the studs.

TOILETS

Automation with toilets gives a whole new meaning to the phrase, ‘royal flush’. These toilets are really built for a king and/or queen! The toilet below – comes with a hefty king and queen price tag! When I had the opportunity to visit the Kohler booth, I was shown the Numi® 2.0

Just take a look at how this automation works for this toilet

A few of the smart features with this particular toilet:

Ambient lighting with eight colors and three programming options.
Built-in speakers play preprogrammed custom Numi® song, FM radio or your personalized music from a portable device with BLUETOOTH®* technology
User presets for up to six people to recall individual saved preferences.

This may fall in the category of TMI, but I personally prefer to be in and out. You know – get in and get-er’ done and get out. While I’m not sure I would enjoy all of the benefits from this toilet, I am 100% positive that the Mr. would. In fact, I may not see him all weekend!

PLUMBING SAFETY

When it comes to creating a smart home, it’s not always about the bells and whistles that you see and use every day. There are some great innovations when it comes to water safety. Nothing is more unsettling than dealing with a flood. Here are some shocking stats.

Grohe Sense is a smart water sensor that can detect:

Water leaks
Frost risks
Harmful humidity

How does it work?

The puck-like sensor is placed in a room, such as a laundry room, close to the appliance or fixture. If water is detected, GROHE Sense will send you a notification via the GROHE ONDUS app. If there is a water leak, you will be notified and get there in time to stop the leak becoming a flood.

The Grohe Sense Guard is installed directly to your plumbing lines.

This device also uses the GROHE ONDUS app to notify you of any micro-leaks, burst pipes, etc. Again, you would get a notification through the app and you can either manually turn off the water or have it automatically shut off (you can set that up when you configure your device.)

Whether you are away on holidays or are simply at work, you can rest assure that water damage will be the thing of the past!

SMART HOMES

When I see automation(s) like the above, the little techy-geek in me gets all excited. I love that technology can assist us like never before. I mean,

Who wouldn’t want to set the temperature for the shower and the water will be the exact temperature that you’ve asked it to be?
When I go to use the toilet, I can be ever so comfortable (so comfortable that I may not want to leave the water closet).
My holiday will never be interrupted by a water leak.

While I do get excited, the older me has a feeling of apprehension. It seems we’re moving into a world where devices do all of the thinking. Do you ever think twice about using the toilet and sit there wondering why there isn’t music playing? Do I really need a toilet that serenades me while I’m using it? Has it ever killed me to turn on the shower – with my hand? Does it really kill me to get up and turn down the lights? Never.

The fact is, I like using my brain, I like to think, and I don’t ever want to lose that ability – ever!

Whatever the future has in store for us, automation and creating smart homes is definitely not going away. That was truly evident at KBIS 2019. So while we don’t have to embrace every little new thing, there are certain items that I see as a great benefit to being a smart homeowner.

Over to you. What are your thoughts on automation and smart homes?

SHOP NOW

Please note this post may contain affiliate links. If you click to buy one of these, I will make a tiny percentage, at no additional cost to you.

Planning a New Linear Fireplace – All the measurements you need

Posted by Sheri on

Saturday, February 2nd, 2019

in Design, Interior Design, renovations

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I am currently working in a home where every room will be getting some kind of facelift. Thus, I’ve called this project our ‘Full Facelift Project’. While some spaces are receiving some minor work, there are two areas that are receiving substantial work: the kitchen and the adjoining family room. You can read about what we’re doing in the kitchen here. The family room will be getting a new fireplace and shelving to flank each side. So what exactly goes into planning a new linear fireplace?

Planning a New Linear Fireplace

Part of this entire Full Facelift Project is to give my clients and their family a space on the main floor, located off the kitchen, to be a focal point and a gathering space. This is how the space currently looks (please keep in mind almost all of the furniture has been moved out of this space).

Wants, Wishes, and Dreams

As I mentioned above, my clients are hoping for this space to be the following:

A space to watch TV
A fireplace that provides some heat (we are in a Polar Vortex you know)!
A place to store games and display items.

Let the Planning Begin

When I heard my clients were hoping to have a new fireplace, we looked at a number of options. We knew that the existing fireplace was going to be torn out, so we basically were starting from scratch with this area.

As my clients also wished to have a TV mounted above the fireplace, we looked at two options: a more traditional fireplace (similar to what they currently have), and a linear fireplace (a more modern looking fireplace).

After weighing the pros and cons of both types of fireplaces, we went with the linear look for the fireplace.

All the Pros

When we looked at planing out a new linear fireplace, there were a LOT pros:

By going with this model, we are able to place the TV right above the fire. We don’t have to worry about any code measurements in terms of how high the TV has to be off of the gas fireplace.
This linear fireplace comes with interior lights to accentuate the fire. What this really means is that it’s super pretty to look at!
The best pro of all? We can use any finishing material right to the edge of the fireplace. Due to how this gas fireplace is vented, we could use wallpaper, wood, tile, stone….the sky is the limit!

There is one Con

You all know I like to share both sides of the story, so here is the con for this fireplace. The price tag! This fireplace comes in at a much higher price point than a ‘standard’ gas fireplace similar to what my clients already have.

Planning a New Linear Fireplace – Measurements

Due to the fact that the new linear fireplace comes in at a higher price point, we are not going to be adding custom cabinets to both sides. Rather, we will use in-stock cabinets that we are sourcing from IKEA. My good friend, Maria Killam, used IKEA Billy cabinets in her sister’s library

My clients will be getting a very similar look (without glass doors and glass shelving) and we will be using the IKEA Bestå system. Here is the conceptual design for their space:

Here is what needed to be decided and what needed to be planned.

LENGTH OF WALL:

Since we are using IKEA Bestå, we are limited to their sizing. As such, I planned out the ‘best fit’ (sizing) for each side first since I had lots of room to manipulate the fireplace wall. We will be going with a TV Base Cabinet that is 47″ long (and we will have an opening of 49″ to accommodate baseboards). This is for each side.
When placing the cabinets into the space, I am left with the total width of the new linear fireplace wall being 6′-11″.
The fireplace measures 40″ wide and the TV measures 44 5/8″ wide (this is a 50″ TV). I centered the TV and the new linear fireplace on the 6′-11″ wall.
By centering the TV and the fireplace, we will have roughly 19″ on each side of the TV.

HEIGHTS

Now that the width is looked after, I moved onto the height. I have placed the new linear fireplace 18″ off the ground (measuring to the bottom of the fireplace) with the center of the fireplace sitting at 25″ off the ground.
For the TV, I have placed the center of the TV at 54″ off the ground. While there are guidelines for optimal heights to hang a TV, I will have my clients double check these measurements in their home to ensure they are happy with these measurements.

Planning a New Linear Fireplace – Why it’s important to plan

Once my client’s approve the measurements, these are then passed along to the fireplace company so they have a plan to follow when the come to frame and install. The installers are not mind readers and can’t guess what your wishes are. Every last detail really does need to be planned out to ensure the bookcases are going to fit properly. As I have said numerous times, failing to plan is planning to fail. And with the cost of is for this new feature wall, you don’t want to make any mistakes!

Remodel like a professional

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Master Bathroom Vanity Design: How we came to the final design

Posted by Sheri on

Saturday, January 19th, 2019

in Bath, Design, Interior Design, renovations

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When it comes to working with clients on their master bathroom vanity design, there are many things we discuss and investigate:

The first item we talk about is the ‘pain point’ of their existing space. What do my clients like and dislike with their current situation?
What is the hope/dream for the new master bathroom vanity? There are always wishes and hopes when we look at installing a new vanity
Are there storage requirements that are needed?

Master Bathroom Vanity Design

In a current master bathroom that is currently being renovated, the clients and I had many discussions about the design of the master bathroom. Let’s start with what the pain points were.

Master Bathroom Vanity Design: Options

When working with clients, I like to create renderings so they can get a good sense of what the space will look like. When looking at creating master bathroom vanity designs, my clients were looking for the following:

Increase the storage.
Keep the double sinks.
Hide the angled wall.

Here are a few master bathroom vanity designs we looked at.

Master Bathroom Vanity Design: Final Plan

After looking at all of the options, going over the pros and cons as well as the budget, we came to this final design:

Let’s take a closer look:

Not only do the tall towers hide the angled wall, but they both also provide the storage my clients were hoping for. The tall tower on the left will be adjusted to accommodate the angled wall. This means the shelving will not be straight across.
While this cabinet will be modified for the angled wall, and while it looks like a pull out drawer, this cabinet will open like a door.
The sink vanities have three drawers. The first two drawers will be notched around the plumbing while the bottom drawer will be full drawers. As opposed to the standard cabinet doors, pull-out drawers provide the maximum storage!
This pull-out will have an organizing system installed for a hair dryer, flat iron, curling iron, etc. This drawer will also include an outlet that will power on when the drawer is pulled out and the power will trip off when the drawer closes (as per our electrical code).

Master Bathroom Vanity Design: The Compromise

When dealing with a certain size space, there may be compromises that need to be made. This master bathroom vanity design is no different. The compromise that my clients were willing to make was counter space. As you may see, there is not a lot of counter space in this design. What my clients intend on doing is putting all of their items in the tall cabinets that flank each sink. As you can see, there are two doors on those tall cabinets. My clients intend to place their day-to-day items in the lower portion while keeping less often-used items in the top section.

Here’s one little last sneak peek at the rest of the space (in a conceptual design)

I’ll be posting live updates from this project over the next couple of weeks. I hope you’ll be able to join me on Facebook and/or Instagram.

We’re getting ready to start our next investment property

Posted by Sheri on

Saturday, January 12th, 2019

in Design, Interior Design, real estate, renovations

| comments: (13)

During the month of November, Robin Spiers with Robin Spiers & Associates, and I were in search for an investment property. I’ve had a few people ask about how this all works so I thought it was perfect timing to let you all in on how it works.

Investment Property

The Search

The entire process begins with a search. For this particular property, it was all Robin’s hard work in coming up with some potential options. When Robin sent me the listing I immediately knew this was a contender. Just take a look at the gorgeous windows in this home!

Viewing the Home

When looking at an investment property, there are things on my list that I look at:

What is the overall state of the home?
The overall state of the kitchen.
What is the overall state of the bathrooms?
And large ticket items:
- roofing
- windows
- doors
- flooring

Adding Up the Numbers

After Robin and I look at the home, I come up with a very rough budget to renovate based off of what Robin believes he can sell the home for. For this particular home, it is going to be listed for over one million dollars so I know that the design and products that I choose have to jive with that number. For example, the appliances that I am going to use will be all Smart Appliances (in a sexy black stainless steel).

Presenting this to Investors

When Robin and I look at our numbers, and if the margins are a good investment, we commit to investing in the property. For this particular investment property, Robin and I let our group of capital investors know about this great property. Although Robin and I were willing to do this one on our own, we had a lot of interest.

Robin put together four scenarios for this property. In the scenarios listed below, the numbers include renovation costs and carrying costs based off holding the property for a total of 6 months. I would have 3 months to renovate, and Robin would have 3 months to sell. Here is what we presented based on scenarios.

A ‘worst case’ scenario where after the renovation, investors would receive a 0.89% ROI.
A ‘good case’ scenario where after the renovations, investors would receive a 17.38% ROI.
A ‘better case’ scenario where after the renovations, investors would receive a 29.21% ROI.
A ‘great case’ scenario where after the renovations, , investors would receive a 41.03% ROI.

Investment Property

For this particular property, we had to turn away investors! The home itself is such a great home, the location is in a very desirable neighbourhood, and the design plan (if I do say so myself), is beautiful. I did a little Facebook Live from my office to talk a little about my plans.

Stay Tuned

I look forward to sharing the journey with you on this investment property. I will be doing many Facebook Live videos as well as videos on Instagram. I hope you’ll join me!

Want to learn more about becoming an investor? Contact me today to discuss our next opportunity!

Renovation Packages: What exactly are you getting?

Posted by Sheri on

Saturday, January 5th, 2019

in Bath, Design, Interior Design, renovations

| comments: (8)

I am a member of a couple of Interior Design forums and groups. In these groups, we provide each other support, mentorship, and learning opportunities. In one of my groups, a member shared a new renovation company that has recently started up in New York. This company provides bathroom renovation packages. Since I design and manage a number of bathroom renovations, this intrigued me. So what exactly was this company in New York doing?

Bathroom Renovation Packages

Let’s start off with what this company in New York is presenting. The company is called Block. This company was started by two entrepreneurs T. Luke Sherwin and Koda M. Wang. T. Luke Sherwin co-founded the mattress company Casper, and Koda M. Wang was the chief customer officer at Rent the Runway. As you may notice, not one of these gentlemen has Interior Design or renovation experience. Here is what Block offers:

Explore their 2 package designs to get an instant quote.
Share some photos of your bathroom.
They prepare for your renovation.
The ‘Rapid Build’ begins.

Their two packages are called Contemporary and Classic with an option to go ‘custom’.

I think we can almost all agree that having package pricing is great for the consumer. I mean, you know what the bottom line is, you know what you’ll be paying, and you know what you’ll be getting.

The Pros of Bathroom Renovation Packages

I don’t think anyone can disagree that this concept looks great. You basically pick out a package (a look) that you wish for your bathroom, you send in some pictures, the Block team does the rest of the work for you.

For those who struggle with making choices, this is the perfect fit for you. There are basically two or three options for each look. It’s like looking at a menu from a restaurant and picking and choosing your sides to go along with your main course.

Package Pricing

Pricing – we can not forget about pricing. Block states on their website that they deal with major brands. They also state on their website,

…we specialize in bathrooms, we are able to get favorable pricing and have visibility into availability — thus allowing us to procure high quality materials at efficient timelines for our customers.

Seems like a win right?

Cons of Bathroom Renovation Packages

Let me first state that this blog is not intended to bash this New York company’s business. I do think there is a market for this type of model. As with everything, there are pros and cons, so here are my cons that I see with bathroom renovation packages:

While some people may enjoy the limited choices, others do not. If you are looking to personalize your space for you, a renovation package like this would not be a good choice for you.
You are not getting a say as to who will be coming to work in your home. While Block does state that they vet all of their trades, it is Block who decides who will do the work – not you.
While there are two packages, with an option to go ‘custom’, the wording, “..work will be up to “Commercial Standard” would be a bit alarming for me. In a residence, I don’t want commercial standards as when I hear those 2 words, I think of ‘builder grade.’ No thank you.

Bathroom renovation packages: Are we really that different?

As I spend time with on Block’s website, I am trying to figure out how their company would be different from any Interior Design firm (like mine). They have right on their website:

Block simplifies the chaos and costs of construction by bringing design, sourcing, and management all under one roof.

Listed in their footer of their website.

Isn’t that what Interior Design Firms do?

A Closer Look

Let’s take a closer look at the four steps for a bathroom renovation package that are listed on Block’s website.

Step One – Get a free estimate.
- Most Interior Design firms will provide a free estimate for your bathroom renovation.
- I know we provide a free estimate based off your wants, needs, and wishes.
Step Two – Share Your Photos & Schedule a Consultation. This is where Interior Design Firms will differ from Block.
- As an Interior Design Firm, we will actually come to your home, take our own photos (knowing what/where/how to take photos that will assist us with the rest of the process), and will already have met you to determine your needs (in Step One). We also take the measurements!
- A relationship is being developed (and so is the trust factor).
Step Three – Your Renovation is Prepared. An Interior Design Firm will do the exact same work as Block advertises.
- We will create your design, handle all permits, detailed drawings, and help you select the finishing materials (including procuring them).
- Where we differ is that Block does everything virtually online, we do it in person. We pick up the phone and deal with our local suppliers.
- Interior Designers get great discounts (and I know I share those with my clients) on products. While Block may get deep discounts for buying in bulk, our Interior Design pricing is second to none!
Step Four – Rapid Build Begins. As stated on Block’s website, your bathroom will be built without interruption by a licensed and insured contractor from our vetted network.
- An Interior Design Firm will also carry this out. For my company, we create the Construction Calendar, attend on-site meetings, and ensure the design on paper is turning into a reality.
- Most Interior Design firms take care and attention to vet the trades they use to carry out the work of their projects. I know all trades on my sites need to be licensed and insured. I also know that all trades need to sign a Trade/Designer Agreement with my company. Let’s face it, the trades are really representing my company when they are on site!

So are you saving money by having a bathroom renovation pacakge?

I actually don’t think you are. When I look at their ‘standard’ Classic Package starting at $15,900 for a full gut, I think I can do better. Wait – I know I can do better! Let’s take a look.

This bathroom below was a full gut this past summer (June 2018) and the price for this bathroom was $13,683.90. The timeline? 3.5 weeks.

renovation package — Bathroom Before Photo prior to the entire space being gutted.

Mood Board for this main bathroom. No cookie cutter products here!

New, modern 18″X36″ tile with everything new installed this bathroom. My client was able to reuse her shower curtain.

Bathroom Renovation Packages

If you are looking to carry out a bathroom renovation for a ‘standard bathroom‘ with no weird wall angles, that has a simple bathtub/shower combination, toilet and standard vanity size (24-30 inches), you bet it can be done for under $15K. It’s totally do-able.
Working with an Interior Designer will allow you to create your personalized ‘Renovation Package’ – not give you one of two choices.
Interior Designers will be able to manipulate your budget. If you wish to splurge on a nicer shower faucet, then perhaps you pull back on the pricing of floor tile (or in another area). With our extensive knowledge, we can manipulate the budget all.day.long.

My Final Thoughts

While I could easily advertise “Main Bathroom Renovation Packages starting at $15,000, I don’t. Why? Just look above! That one ‘standard bathroom’ came in under $15,000! I also am not a firm believer of ‘cookie cutter’. We have enough of that in our lives.

When we purchase a home, it is most likely the biggest investment we will make. Why would I want what everyone else has? Can you imagine if all of the homes looked exactly the same (inside and out)? We would be living in a vanilla world – and I don’t like that! I love personality. I love working with different styles and creating spaces designed for my clients.

Looking to have your personalized renovation package set up for you? Contact us today to discuss your space.

Office: 403.813.0067

Calgary, Alberta

Archive for Design

Renovation Budget – Step 1 Labour Quotes

Renovation Budget – Step 2 Sourcing Quotes

Renovation Budget – Step 3 Finalizing the Budget

When the renovation budget is too high?

Renovation Budget: Bye Bye Basement Example

Renovation Budgets: Making Smart Decisions

Thinking of an upcoming renovation and wish to discuss your options? Contact us today to chat about working with us!

Kitchen Backsplash

The Design

Kitchen Backsplash Choices

Choice One

Choice Two

Choice Three

Kitchen Backsplash: Where people make mistakes

Here’s what we already know:

Here’s what else you need to know about this space:

Kitchen Backsplash Decision

Kitchen Backspalash

Eye Candy

DESIGN

Custom Cabinetry

IKEA

CHOICES

Custom

IKEA

TIME

Custom

IKEA

INSTALL

CUSTOM

IKEA

BUDGET

FULL DIY

CUSTOM

Looking to remodel your kitchen? Contact Sheri today to discuss your options!

Decorate with Clocks: Oversized Wall Clocks

Decorate with Clocks: Table and Desk Clocks

Decorate with Clocks: Coffee and End Tables

Decorate with Clocks

Black Fixtures

Black Fixtures: Shower Doors

Black Fixtures: Faucets

Smart Home – What does that even mean?

Smart Home – Lighting Dimmers/Switches

Smart Home – Plumbing

Showers

Creating your dream shower

Installation

TOILETS

PLUMBING SAFETY

How does it work?

SMART HOMES

SHOP NOW

Planning a New Linear Fireplace

Wants, Wishes, and Dreams

Let the Planning Begin

All the Pros

There is one Con

Planning a New Linear Fireplace – Measurements

LENGTH OF WALL:

HEIGHTS

Planning a New Linear Fireplace – Why it’s important to plan

Master Bathroom Vanity Design

Master Bathroom Vanity Design: Options

Master Bathroom Vanity Design: Final Plan

Master Bathroom Vanity Design: The Compromise

Investment Property

The Search

Viewing the Home

Adding Up the Numbers

Presenting this to Investors

Investment Property

Stay Tuned

Want to learn more about becoming an investor? Contact me today to discuss our next opportunity!

Bathroom Renovation Packages

The Pros of Bathroom Renovation Packages

Package Pricing