Remodeling Project on the Mind?

       HartmanBaldwin Design/Build wants to change the way you think about home remodeling, show you a smarter way to live in your home, and how together we can improve your community in the process. That’s why every other month we offer The Home Remodelers’ Survival Guide Workshop. This free and enlightening workshop is part of a regional community outreach and education program provided by HartmanBaldwin that presents our time-tested insider tools and tips to help you take control of your remodeling project and budget.

       We know how poorly planned remodeling projects can get stressful and overwhelming, not to mention the nightmare that can occur if you hire the wrong person for the job. That’s why we’ve created this workshop and are here to put your late-night worries to rest. We’re confident that participating in this workshop will illuminate your proverbial light bulb, remove that big remodeling chip on your shoulder, and get you off the pot (so to speak) so you can get going on that dream home you never imagined possible.

      To learn more, register online or request more information visit our website at www.HartmanBaldwin.com/sgw or just check us out, we’d love to get an opportunity to meet you.

Happy Remodeling,

Your Friends at HartmanBaldwin Design/Build

Remodeling Kick-Start Kit

Are you thinking of of pursuing that remodeling project you've always been dreaming of? As exciting as this is for any homeowner, it can seem a little daunting. However, with a little help from a designer or a contractor, the decision making process can be smooth and enjoyable! I mean, who doesn't want to make their house into their ideal home?

HartmanBaldwin just recently wrote a fast & easy guide to kick-starting your remodeling project. Quick refresher: look to your favorite places! Look at colors, lighting, textures, and overall style that makes you go "ohh" and "ahh." What abour aura, you ask? Well, add some sophistication and character to your home with arched doorways and exposed ceilings.

Want to add timelessness? Add sophistication with arched doorways, exposed ceilings, or give your flight of stairs a facelift! Trying to be green? Then make your home eco-friendly by using materials that are recycled, renewable, or sourced from environmentally responsible companies. Love being outdoors? Well, why not enhance the exterior of your home? When remodeling, make sure you always keep in mind the goal. Always remind yourself of why you wanted to remodel, what you were unsatisfied with, and what can make it better. Make a list of activities you already perform in the space and what you'd like to facilitate through your remodel. This list will ultimately help your architect find out how to create the most efficient and beautiful home for you and your family.

"FIRE!" "EARTHQUAKE!" "FLOOD!"

 These are the last things anyone wants to hear.  However, if you're prepared, these natural disasters don't have to be as scary as they are.  If you’ve committed to a remodeling project, be sure to talk with your builder about incorporating disaster-ready alternatives into your home construction. Just making small adjustments in building materials can protect your home from natural disasters in the future. Think about disasters that are common to your area.  Fires?  Why not use cellulose insulation, a green material made from recycled paper and treated with non-toxic fire retardent additives?  Southern California homeowners, this is a definite must have for you since our wild-fires are quite frequent and temperatures are getting higher every year.  Also, think about  fire-proofing your roof and siding.

A lot of rainfall?  Hurricanes?  Flooding?  Consider the following to protect your home against water and wind damage:

•  Impact-resistant glass can save your windows and doors from hurricane-related damage.
•  Carpets are ruined by flooding. Install tile instead for flooring with a longer life-span.
•  Installing electrical outlets 24 or 36 inches from the floor (rather than the conventional 16) will lessen the chance of water damage.

Think About Your Favorite Places

        The goal of remodeling is to create the perfect space for you.  Look around at the places where you live, work, and visit.  Think about what you like about these places and ways that they can be integrated into your dream home.
        So go visit your favorite places!  Is it a bookstore with great lighting and chairs you can just throw yourself into?  Perhaps it's the outdoors with beautiful greenery?  Or maybe it's your local coffee shop with that cool bohemian feel?  Take notes and pictures of the the things that you are immediately attracted to and try to find patterns and similarities.  Also, if you're running short on time, take a peek through pictures in magazines, books, or websites for colors, styles, items, or buildings that catch your eye. 
        For a quick start, how about taking a look through HartmanBaldwin's very own designs and see the homes we've created.  From avant-garde to a Spanish-Mediterranean style, find the design that best represents who you are and how you live.  Look through the photos, find your favorites, and don't worry about having too many!  When creating the home of your choice, don't edit your like and dislikes - go with your instincts.  The most inspired spaces usually meld multiple style sources, making your home truly unique and personable.

Will Remodeling Increase the Resale Value of Your Home?

      For most homeowners, increased resale value is a good reason to remodel your home.  That can be true, but much depends on the kind of work being done and the neighborhood itself.  So, keep in the mind the following:

• Kitchen and bath remodels usually experience the most immediate return.
• Eccentric designs could make the house less appealing to future buyers.
• Consider your neighborhood.  Will your improvement bring your home's resale value in line with your neighbors property?

      Once you've considered this and you're well on your way to designing your dream house, look for some innovative and stylish ways to making your home unique and personable.  Builder Magazine had some great ideas with the "8 Hot Kitchen Trends for 2010."  Or, if you're looking to re-do your bathroom, make sure to consider bathrooms for him and her.  We all know men and women want different things, but what greater fusion can you get when it comes from within your home!  And always, consider The Finishing Touch - and by this, of course, I mean the painting on the wall.  Our homes are our pride and joy and we want them to represent who we are - so when considering the color of paint look at paint quality, the effects of natural light, and the interior and exterior surroundings for a holistic effect.

     Nice first blog.  See you when we find more interesting tips of the trade!