Homeowners often wonder if they should stay put and renovate or sell and build a new custom home. Which provides more value?

Let’s examine the building new vs renovating toss-up and the things that both processes have in common.

You Can’t Skip the Design and Planning Process!

Whether building or renovating, you can’t escape it. Following a proper process will gather all possible information about a property to help decision making. There are three phases:

• Preliminary Design: This includes concept creation and a review of zoning regulations.
• Design Development: Interior design and project specifications/selections.
• Construction Documentation: Construction drawings and permit submittal.

Regardless of your desire to renovate or to build new, the initial conceptual design process is smaller and simpler than you might think, but very important. It presents an opportunity for you to establish a working relationship with your architect (design professional) on a “see how it goes” basis. It also identifies the larger items in getting the project started, like budget, or if an extra floor is feasible, or considering an addition at the rear.

https://www.michaelmenn.com/our-process/

What Does Your New or Renovated Home Need?

List all the features that you need in your home (wish list). How many bedrooms and bathrooms? Need a suite? What about future family plans to factor in?  Also consider the “nice to haves” or “wants”. Both the needs and wants will help form the framework and constraints for the creative team. We will come up with three options for you to choose from. Usuually it is a combination of the three designs (we like the Kitchen from Scheme A, the Master Suite from Scheme B and the Exterior from Scheme C. Once these have been combined , the next step is to start building your budget.

There are two ways to come up with a budget for design.

1. Do the design and cost it, or
2. Set a budget and work within it. (Obviously, this can put constraints on the creative process, but a budget is a budget.)

How Much is My House Worth Now and How Much After Renovation?

A realtor/appraiser can provide you with the estimated sale value of your home after the project.

This is helpful for determining a “safe zone” for your project investment.

An equation that many builders/remodelers likes to use is:  Finished value minus 10% = the starting point for the rest of the math.

So we are starting with a new value that is 90% of appraised value.

Before

After

Love It or List It – Renovate or Build New?

I’m guessing you’ve seen the TV show Love it Or List It. It demonstrates that completing “the process” will give you the information you need to figure out what is right for you.  Things to take into account are based on:

• Real costs of selling and moving, like realtor fees, Property Transfer Tax, temporary rent, movers and packing, even storage. These fees and costs often are much higher than people think, thus affecting the equations and decisions about building new vs renovating, or even to sell and buy somewhere else.
• The value of getting exactly what you want vs. what is available out there.
• Do you love where you live? This is a big one. If not, you may need to move to get what you’ve always wanted.

Renovate or Build New?

OK, we’re finally getting to the big question. Consider these issues to help tip the balance for you:

• Does the home have a favorable existing non-conforming condition that is beneficial to keep?
• Does the home have good “bones”, like 2×10 joists? Are the foundations in good shape?
• Is the house and foundation properly positioned on the lot? Is it an appropriate size for the lot?
• Do surrounding home values support the new finished product and its value? It can be nerve wracking to have the most expensive house on the block.

“Better Than New”

Yes, I would argue that something can indeed be built “better than new”.

With home construction, the words “new” and “quality” are not automatically interchangeable. Many new construction projects here in Chicago do not really represent what a reasonable person would call quality. Consider these images of “new” alongside a renovation by one of our teams.

New:

Renovated:

Quality is care. Quality is skill. Quality is accountability. Quality is built with every small step carried out impeccably.

Of course, there are good reasons to build new and not renovate. Sometimes a renovation can’t fill the need.  But the same process works for both kinds of construction. Just be sure you get verifiable quality, not merely a word.

Amortize the “Pleasure of Ownership” of a Custom Designed and Quality Built Home

Large renovations and new homes both have significant price tags. Affordability and cost of ownership are important factors. But with current low interest rates, renovations look more affordable when viewed as a cost per month, rather than a final price. They also involve less time commitment.

For example, a $100,000 gourmet kitchen will cost about 450.00 per month over a standard term.  When you factor in improved values for the overall home and improving its layout, your true cost of ownership can be as low as 100.00 per month for a gorgeous new kitchen!

Whatever your thinking, feel free to share it with us at Michael Menn Ltd., one of Chicagoland’s established and trusted design/builers. Our advice will provide insights and perspectives you may not have considered.

I want to thank my friends and colleagues at Kerr Construction in Vancouver, B.C. for the structure of this blog and for their insight into ways to constantly keep our clients knowledgable about the design and building process.

Wishing you all health and safety.

Michael A. Menn

Principal, Architect

AIA, CGR, CAPS, CGP, NCARB

Michael Menn Ltd.

2017 President of the Home Builders Association of Greater Chicago
2016 National Remodeler of the Year
Emeritus, PowerHouse Smart Board of Advisors
American Institute of Building Design

The post Design and Planning Process appeared first on Michael Menn Ltd. Architecture-Construction-Excellence.

On a personal note, I am hoping that everyone is safe and healthy. Though our country and our planet is going through a very difficult time, it’s still OK to plan for the future. Planning a renovation can be done now even though many things are different for our country right now. The design, planning and imagining phase of your renovation can still be done today! May is National Remodeling month, so I wanted to give the top 7 reasons to renovate your living environment.

Let a professional handle your home renovations.

Home renovations are costly, time-consuming and messy. Still, many people choose to renovate their homes for a variety of reasons. There are almost as many reasons to fix up your home as there are projects to choose from. Here are the top reasons for renovating your home.

1. To increase your comfort or enjoyment of the home.

This one comes first for a reason. Although there are many good reasons to renovate your home, your own comfort and enjoyment are important factors that shouldn’t be overlooked. If you renovate solely based on how it will impact the future sales price down the line, you may end up living in a showplace that doesn’t feel like a home. Your comfort and enjoyment are more important than what improvements will make the most money when you eventually sell.

2.  To fix a safety issue.

Some home renovation projects just can’t be put off. Electrical problems, roof leaks, or a crack in the foundation are some problems that must be taken care of to keep your family safe and prevent catastrophic or total loss of the home.

3. To improve the home’s value.

If you plan to sell the home within the next few years, you may want to renovate some or all of it with an eye toward getting the most you can when you put it on the market. Some projects that have the best immediate return, are opening up the main living space, replacing the front door, and updating the kitchen or bathroom.

4. To upgrade the home’s function.

Maybe you need more space, or a second bathroom would make things a lot easier during those busy mornings. Maybe your husband wants a man cave, or you would like a deck or a patio for outdoor entertaining. Renovating so that the home functions better for the residents is a good idea, as long as the upgrades don’t hurt the home’s value or decrease usable space.

5. To increase the efficiency of the home.

New windows, a heat pump, and added insulation are examples of improvements that can decrease energy costs and pay for themselves over time. More efficient homes are also more attractive to buyers if you want to sell since they know costs will be lower on an energy-efficient home.

6. To update the home’s style.

An older home can have a dated look that makes it less attractive to buyers or can look more plain than upscale. Updating your home’s style can be a whim based on new trends or a way to prepare a house for sale. The best bet is to use timeless styles that send the message of sophistication.

7. To prepare the house for sale.

When the main objective of renovations is to sell the home, choices should reflect what is most likely to help with the sale. Neutral colors, upgrades that add value, and fixing any cosmetic or functional problems will help get the house in tip-top shape for resale.

When you decide to remodel, remember to have a budget in mind, but first, do your due diligence and hire a professional architect and remodeler.

Best,

Michael A. Menn

Architect, Principal, Michael Menn, Ltd.

AIA, CGR, CGP, CAPS, NCARB, NKBA

The post Top 7 Reasons to Renovate Your Home appeared first on Michael Menn Ltd. Architecture-Construction-Excellence.

Initiating a home improvement project isn’t as irksome or frightening as you might think.

One question we’re often asked stems from our clients in the Chicago area watching a home improvement show like Windy City Rehab. Seeing those dream remodels unfold on the screen, they wonder to themselves, ‘Can I do that to my home?’ or, ‘How do I begin a project like that?’

Planning a home improvement project can seem daunting, but there are some simple steps you can take to get your project under way.

Give me one good reason

First, decide why you’d like to remodel. There are several good reasons to renovate. Your home may no longer reflect your tastes or your lifestyle. Your family dynamics may have changed. Maybe you’d like to make your home more environmentally friendly. You may even be planning a move in the future and you’d like to invest in your home to make it more marketable.

Whatever the reason, identify it. If there’s more than one, that’s even better! The point is that in order for you to be thrilled at the end of the project, you need to first understand why you want the change.

Kitchen Remodels

Homeowners plan to go big in 2019, according to an NAHBR (National Association of Home Builders Remodelers) List survey of more than 1,000 highly rated remodeling professionals.

Make a list of necessary home improvements

The next step is to make a list of every upgrade you’d like to get out of the remodel. Divide the items on that list into 3 categories:

1. Must-have items
2. Would-like-to-have items
3. Dream items

Building this list will help you and your remodeling contractor prioritize during the project. This list will tell you which items to cut if you can’t afford everything and which items to add if some upgrades aren’t as expensive as estimated.

Millions of Americans are expected to remodel their homes this year as the home selling market rebounds.

Bathroom Remodels

Setting a budget for your remodeling project

Once your list is complete, think about your budget — but don’t overthink it! Too many people get hung up on this and never even begin their projects.

You must begin to formulate what you’ll be comfortable investing in your home, but remember: Until you talk with an experienced remodeling contractor, you won’t be able to take into account all of the methods that are available to help you get more out of your budget. A home improvement professional is experienced and up to date with the latest tax credits, rebates, alternative building materials, and cost saving methods that can make many of your dream items possible!

What Should Be in a Remodeling Contract?

Don’t sign a remodeling contract until you and the home improvement contractor agree on every term.

What’s the next step toward that dream remodel?

Once you’ve created your list of remodeling projects and considered your budget, it’s time to get a professional remodeling contractor working with you to develop a plan to make your project a reality. Hire a professional, check references, and go see their work. Here is a great place to start: NAHB

When dealing with something as important as your home, you don’t want to settle for just anyone. Selecting an unqualified individual or low quality renovation crew can cost you dearly in the end. Don’t trust something this important to the unqualified, inexperienced, uninsured, or anyone promising you something that you know is too good to be true. You owe it to yourself and your home to begin with speaking to a trusted professional.

Click here to email me directly!

Best,

Michael

The post How To Start a Remodeling Project appeared first on Michael Menn Ltd. Architecture-Construction-Excellence.

Let a professional handle your home renovations.

Home renovations are costly, time-consuming and messy. Still, many people choose to renovate their homes for a variety of reasons. There are almost as many reasons to fix up your home as there are projects to choose from. Here are the top reasons for renovating your home.

1. To increase your comfort or enjoyment of the home.

This one comes first for a reason. Although there are many good reasons to renovate your home, your own comfort and enjoyment are important factors that shouldn’t be overlooked. If you renovate solely based on how it will impact the future sales price down the line, you may end up living in a showplace that doesn’t feel like a home. Your comfort and enjoyment are more important than what improvements will make the most money when you eventually sell.

2. To fix a safety issue.

Some home renovation projects just can’t be put off. Electrical problems, roof leaks, or a crack in the foundation are some problems that must be taken care of to keep your family safe and prevent catastrophic or total loss of the home.

3. To improve the home’s value.

If you plan to sell the home within the next few years, you may want to renovate some or all of it with an eye toward getting the most you can when you put it on the market. Some projects that have the best immediate return, are opening up the main living space, replacing the front door, and updating the kitchen or bathroom.

4. To upgrade the home’s function.

Maybe you need more space, or a second bathroom would make things a lot easier during those busy mornings. Maybe your husband wants a man cave, or you would like a deck or a patio for outdoor entertaining. Renovating so that the home functions better for the residents is a good idea, as long as the upgrades don’t hurt the home’s value or decrease usable space.

5. To increase the efficiency of the home.

New windows, a heat pump, and added insulation are examples of improvements that can decrease energy costs and pay for themselves over time. More efficient homes are also more attractive to buyers if you want to sell since they know costs will be lower on an energy-efficient home.

Planning and dreaming together is part of the fun of home renovations.

6. To update the home’s style.

An older home can have a dated look that makes it less attractive to buyers or can look more plain than upscale. Updating your home’s style can be a whim based on new trends or a way to prepare a house for sale. The best bet is to use timeless styles that send the message of sophistication.

7. To prepare the house for sale.

When the main objective of renovations is to sell the home, choices should reflect what is most likely to help with the sale. Neutral colors, upgrades that add value, and fixing any cosmetic or functional problems will help get the house in tip-top shape for resale.

When you decide to remodel, remember to have a budget in mind, but first, do your due diligence and hire a professional architect and remodeler.

Click or call 847.770.6303 to set up a consultation. 

The post 7 Reasons to Renovate Your Home appeared first on Michael Menn Ltd. Architecture-Construction-Excellence.

When it comes to home remodeling projects, bath upgrades continue to dominate, even over kitchen renovations. With so many resources and choices out there, it can be overwhelming to sort through the different options and styles on your own, so we’ve researched the topic for you.

Transitional and contemporary style bathrooms are gaining steam over traditional designs. Modern style baths tend to be popular among homeowners who are remodeling because they offer eye-catching features that are sure to impress.

Emphasize A Focal Point

View More Here

Make an intentional effort to create a focal point for the eye to be drawn to when you walk in the room. Walk-in showers and freestanding tubs are two examples of how you can master this trend. Think of your bathroom focal point as a statement piece of clothing you’d wear to generate a reaction.

Showers with frameless heavy-glass enclosures have a designer appearance and deliver a spa-like luxury to the bath. Color, hardware, vanities and tubs are all ways to you can emphasize a main focal point in your bathroom.

Modern Metallics

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, updating your hardware and faucets is an effortless way to add visual interest and style to any room. Oil-rubbed bronze and brushed nickel are two trendy metals that come in interesting and appealing colors and textures. Believe it or not, brass tones in a warm-colored copper are coming back to the bathroom scene.

Light fixtures are no longer just for brightening up a room. They’re installed with the purpose of being seen. This includes pieces that are bold, large and full of personality. These days, you have a wide range of styles to choose from. We’re seeing anything from glamorous chandeliers made of crystals, to clusters of hand-blown globes or drum pendants made of metal. Ultimately, the decision is yours!

Modern Wall & Subway Tiles

More Bath Projects Here

Tile is in and it’s prettier than ever. Modern wall tiles in bright colors, with floral designs, patterns and creative shapes are entering bathrooms, and it’s a beautiful thing! This is your chance to use creativity and personal style to bring some energy to your bathroom.

Subway tiles are nothing new. They’ve been around for more than a century and are a demonstration of lasting elegance. Subway tiles are a perfect choice for the bathroom because they’re durable, attractive and water resistant.

As the styles and trends change, so do the tiles. There are a wide variety of modern appearances and colors available for your liking. The most popular subway tile colors have deemed to be winter white, cobalt blue and slate gray. Tile experts have been mixing tiles to create one-of-kind designs that remain timeless.

Cabinetry

Cabinets are an essential part of a bathroom remodel, both as a design element and budget line item. Raised panel doors are very popular among homeowners and will continue to be in 2016. Designer, Loretta J. Willis has laid out the top trends according to the different types of cabinet frames and doors that exist.

 Bath or Vanity Cabinets – Type of Cabinet Frame

1. Frameless (European Style) 2. Face-framed (Traditional Style)

Bath or Vanity Cabinets – Type of Door

1. Wood finish, raised panel in frame
2. Wood finish, flat panel in frame
3. Glass panel in wood frame

Heated Floors

Heated floors are definitely an added luxury, but they can be a life-changing upgrade in colder climates. The average reported cost to install bathroom floor heating for 100sf is $600. Installing heated floors is a great selling point for those considering listing a home.

Heated floors can also save homeowners money by allowing them to keep the temperature in their homes lower during the colder months of the year, without having to worry about their floors being cold. As far as material goes, ceramic and porcelain tiles are going to be big sellers in the days ahead.

Zen-Like Designs With A Contemporary Twist

One of the newer trends you’ll see in 2016 is a Zen-inspired bath design with contemporary features. Homeowners like to have their bathroom be a spot they can relax and rejuvenate, and this is why spa-like designs are gaining attention and popularity.

To achieve a modern Zen setting, you have to think outside the box and combine and pull design elements, colors and creativity from both styles. Large spa-like showers and ultra-clear glass adds luxury to a master bath by creating free-flowing light and an open, airy atmosphere.

Technology

Technology is not only evolving in our professional lives and our smartphones, but also in our bathrooms. Water-resistant music systems and streaming Bluetooth systems can be operated wirelessly, from smartphones and other various audio devices. New technology allows you to add a little fun to your morning routine!

And have you heard of this one, Optum VorMax, the new flush system technology developed for toilets? This new technology is being offered by American Standard. It not only gives a powerful flush to your toilet, but also scours and cleans the bowl at the same time! Why not let technology do the work for you!

Conclusion

There you have it, some of the leading bathroom trends of 2016. Take some of these ideas back to your bath and see what features you think might need a facelift. At the end of the day, it’s your home and your bath, so pick styles that suit you and your overall design.

If you are thinking about remodeling your bathroom, please think of us to help in the design and construction.

Best,

Michael

The post 2016 Bathroom Trends appeared first on Michael Menn Ltd. Architecture-Construction-Excellence.

The kitchen table may be convenient, but it’s usually not the most productive space — too casual, and not effectively separated from the home environment. To do serious work from home, you need to think first about the work you do, the equipment it takes, and the space you’ll require.

For starting the process, I like using the five-step approach of designer Neal Zimmerman in his Home Workspace Idea Book. He recommends that you:

[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#51d440″]

• Determine your needs.

What office equipment: computers, printers, copiers, faxes? How much filing space? Will you need meeting space separate from your desk? Will you have other employees? What about space for specialized projects — for example, I need a drafting station to work on drawings and plans.

• Choose a location.

Consider whether the space will have to shared with other family members: that den or spare bedroom that may be fine most of the day can suddenly require negotiation when the kids come home from school and want to play video games. Not every home lends itself to new drywall and studs.

• Develop a plan.

Think about the practicality of what you want. Do you have adequate space? Can you provide adequate power? Is there enough storage for the future? Make certain everything is going to fit, and that your budget can afford it all.

• Create a healthy environment.

Just as employers are responsible for maintaining safe and comfortable work spaces, so too should you take extra care to take care of yourself. Make choices that can help prevent eyestrain or back injuries — and don’t skimp on quality. You probably do need an ergonomic desk chair (I have one.)

• Define a place for who you are.

Working at home gives you the power to create and environment you can enjoy every day. Make decisions for your wall colors, your furniture, your storage that reflect your individuality and make you happy.

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When I design a home office space, I ask our clients multiple questions in order to maximize the output of the hours spent working there. Some of the things we’ll discuss include:

• Will an L-shaped or U-shaped layout be best for the tasks at hand?
• What desk chair is best for ease of adjustment and all-day support? Most home-based professionals spend more time in their chairs than they do in their beds.
• What furniture position will maximize the hours of natural light, and what illumination sources will be best at reducing glare?
• How “paperless” will the office be, and how much storage for files, reference books and work-in-progress will still be needed?
• Who else will use the space? Will there be visitors? The family pets?

As your business grows and changes, your home office needs will likely evolve too. Don’t be hesitant to experiment — often one simple change in your office layout can really boost your productivity. With a little planning, you can create a home office that supports your entrepreneurial spirit and enriches your living environment.

Remember I’m always eager to hear your comments. Contact me at Michael@michaelmenn.com or at 847.770.6303.

Best,

The post Home Is Where The Office Is appeared first on Michael Menn Ltd. Architecture-Construction-Excellence.

The kitchen table may be convenient, but it’s usually not the most productive space — too casual, and not effectively separated from the home environment. To do serious work from home, you need to think first about the work you do, the equipment it takes, and the space you’ll require.

For starting the process, I like using the five-step approach of designer Neal Zimmerman in his Home Workspace Idea Book. He recommends that you:

[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#51d440″]

• Determine your needs.

What office equipment: computers, printers, copiers, faxes? How much filing space? Will you need meeting space separate from your desk? Will you have other employees? What about space for specialized projects — for example, I need a drafting station to work on drawings and plans.

• Choose a location.

Consider whether the space will have to shared with other family members: that den or spare bedroom that may be fine most of the day can suddenly require negotiation when the kids come home from school and want to play video games. Not every home lends itself to new drywall and studs.

• Develop a plan.

Think about the practicality of what you want. Do you have adequate space? Can you provide adequate power? Is there enough storage for the future? Make certain everything is going to fit, and that your budget can afford it all.

• Create a healthy environment.

Just as employers are responsible for maintaining safe and comfortable work spaces, so too should you take extra care to take care of yourself. Make choices that can help prevent eyestrain or back injuries — and don’t skimp on quality. You probably do need an ergonomic desk chair (I have one.)

• Define a place for who you are.

Working at home gives you the power to create and environment you can enjoy every day. Make decisions for your wall colors, your furniture, your storage that reflect your individuality and make you happy.

[/su_list]

When I design a home office space, I ask our clients multiple questions in order to maximize the output of the hours spent working there. Some of the things we’ll discuss include:

• Will an L-shaped or U-shaped layout be best for the tasks at hand?
• What desk chair is best for ease of adjustment and all-day support? Most home-based professionals spend more time in their chairs than they do in their beds.
• What furniture position will maximize the hours of natural light, and what illumination sources will be best at reducing glare?
• How “paperless” will the office be, and how much storage for files, reference books and work-in-progress will still be needed?
• Who else will use the space? Will there be visitors? The family pets?

As your business grows and changes, your home office needs will likely evolve too. Don’t be hesitant to experiment — often one simple change in your office layout can really boost your productivity. With a little planning, you can create a home office that supports your entrepreneurial spirit and enriches your living environment.

Remember I’m always eager to hear your comments. Contact me at Michael@michaelmenn.com or at 847.770.6303.

Best,

The post Home Is Where The Office Is appeared first on Michael Menn Ltd. Architecture-Construction-Excellence.

Last month, I posted these five resolutions for your upcoming remodeling projects in 2014:

1)        Put a high value on your time.

2)        Seek inspiration.

3)        Set realistic goals and budgets for your remodeling.

4)        Spend more time with family and friends.

5)        Optimize, not maximize.

To complete the set, here are the final five:

6)        Learn from the best.

Hire professional architects, interior designers and remodelers who belong to professional organizations.

Why is this important?  Credentialed professionals are qualified by third parties in their fields of expertise. Members of AIA (American Institute of Architects), ASID (American Society of Interior Designers), NAHBR (National Association of Home Builders Remodelers) and NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) are required to maintain their credentials by attending education seminars about the latest codes and trends.

7)        Make memories everyday.

When you finally decide to move forward with your new home, addition, or remodeling project, create a space you will be proud of and one where your family and friends will always talk about. Have the vision!

Why is this important?  Your living area is one of your most important tangible assets and the place where you spend the most time. Life is often forgettable and moves at lightening speed, so slow down and take the time to make your new space a memorable environment you can share with others.

8)        Live in the moment.

When you are not working, you are spending time in your home so why not create an environment you enjoy.

Why is this important?  Most people spend at least 8 hours a day working. In today’s society it is probably closer to 11 with travel time. So when you are relaxing or socializing – enjoy being in the moment. Work will always be there.

9)        Don’t lose sight of what you want.

Always remember why you started down this path of remodeling or renovating. Take the time to ascertain what is going to make your life better and keep this goal in the forefront. . Work on your budget beforehand, be honest with the professional you hire and move forward with a realistic budget and time frame.

Why is this important?  Too many people jump into a remodeling or renovation project without spending some time deciding on actually what they want, how much they want to invest and within what time frame. This ends up becoming a waste of time for everyone involved, including you.

10)      Celebrate your team.

When you hire a team (architect, interior designer, remodeler, landscaper, etc.) it requires the collective assets of everyone to bring a project to reality. The best teams are made of people who enjoy this collaborative environment and help each other do their best work. Whenever it happens, it deserves a round of applause.

Why is this important? Everyone appreciates being thanked for a job well done, by their own team members, by their peers, and of course by their clients. It’s simple to do and it goes a long way toward building future satisfaction.

I would like to finish with a poem I found that truly affected me:

Soil, water, air and sunlight,

Joining in grand reunion,

Now rise up, look around, laugh,

And recognize one another.

This is the ancient truth

Woven into the fabric of being:

One in all and all in one;

WE LIVE ONE LIFE!

Remember I’m always eager to hear your comments. Contact me at Michael@michaelmenn.com or at 847.770.6303.

Best,

Michael

The post Remodeling Resolutions You Won’t Want To Break appeared first on Michael Menn Ltd. Architecture-Construction-Excellence.

Room lighting is more than a way to illuminate objects. When done properly, it enhances everything else in the room — enabling people to process information, performs tasks safety, and appreciate the artwork, colors and furnishings defining the space. So I always begin by asking our clients several questions before I start working on lighting design:

[list style=”check”]

• Are the activities in the room active or passive?
• What is the room size and shape?
• What is the exterior orientation of the room?
• Is natural light in abundance? At what times?
• Who will use the space?

[/list]

Energy savings and low-maintenance convenience are factors, of course, but should not override visual interest. Simply throwing light around, with everything at the same brightness, is boring to the eyes and senses. Layering light is an important principle, and today’s control systems (dimmers, switches and timers) not only provide lifestyle-friendly illumination from your lighting fixtures, but also save energy and extend the life for the bulbs and lamps inside them.

As I design a space with light, I keep in mind the aptly named acronym TADA — which stands for Task, Ambient, Decorative and Accent light sources. It’s the mixture of these different types of lighting that keeps spaces interesting and welcoming. By definition:

Task lighting enables a person to accomplish a specific task, such as mirror lighting in the bathroom or undercabinet lighting above a kitchen cutting board.

Ambient lighting provides the general illumination you might find in a foyer, hallway or bedroom.

Decorative lighting includes sconces, chandeliers and other fixtures that dress up an area.

Accent lighting highlights specific objects, such as a spotlight on hanging artwork, custom wood millwork, or a tile backsplash.

Some of the lighting principles I follow include:

[list style=”check”]

• Control systems can refocus a room or space into different light settings to suit clients’ activities and moods
• Task lighting should be used sparingly; it is not always necessary
• Ambient lighting can be overpowering, so avoid overdoing it which will lead to an annoying glare
• Decorative lighting tends to sparkle even more when it has just a soft glow to it
• Accent lighting has even more punch when the other lighting in the room is subdued [/list]

So keep TADA in mind when you light an area, and that can be exactly what your guests will say. My thanks to Kathie Leslie from Lutron Electronics for sharing her vast lighting wisdom with me, and I want to wish everyone a happy, healthy and safe holiday season!

Best,

Michael

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With young children and an informal lifestyle, the family wanted to open up their home’s floor plan, enlarge the kitchen, and create a more convenient space to enter and exit. We knew this would require moving one or more load-bearing walls — making the project a bit of a challenge — but it’s usually the right answer for improving circulation within the home and allowing for more functionality.

Our client agreed that a having a transitional dining area for everyday use was more important than preserving their formal dining room. That gave us the flexibility to enlarge the kitchen with additional counter space, a breakfast bar, a dishwasher and other missing conveniences. We combined the den area, enlarged kitchen, and new dining area into one cohesive, multi-use space for cooking, homework, TV watching and everything else.

Bringing the whole renovation together is an 11’ 6” x 5’ mudroom addition that adds usefulness and ease to the new living environment. Now family, friends and guests have a place to take off coats, shoes, mittens and more without disrupting the rest of the house. This small space has made a huge impact on keeping everything neat and tidy.

As you can see from the “Existing” and “Remodeled” floor plans, the new arrangement doesn’t just look better, it has our clients feeling better — and they’ve been ecstatic at how relaxed and comfortable daily living has become. Getting into our clients’ heads and unscrambling all their design thoughts into one winning design solution is what our design/build process is all about.

Existing Floor Plan

Remodeled Floor Plan

So what design challenge are you facing in your home? If you have an interior space problem you’d like solved, please email me at Michael@MichaelMenn.com and I’ll try to present a solution in one of my next blogs. Thanks for the opportunity.

Sincerely,

Michael

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