Home Improvement Editorial

Archive for the ‘House Plans’ Category

If you are building a new home or converting your loft space you may need the services of a good architect. The following tips will help you decide if you need one and where to find a good one?

The role of an architect is to look at your new design project and identify any problems that may occur. This can save you time and money. They also have the experience to look at your designs and provide proposals where improvements can be made and the space utilized more effectively. This can also help to add value to your property.

However, the architect will need to fully understand your plans and what you want to achieve. Before you meet with an architect it is prudent to write out and forward them a project brief. This brief will outline:

- What you are proposing to change or extend.
- What is its purpose for example, is the primary objective to add space or value.
- Is the extension or extra space to be used for a specific purpose such as an extra bedroom or home office?
- Is access a priority? If the new space is to be used by your grandparents you may need to think about support railings or ramps for easy access.
- Will the proposed space be used for another purpose in the future? For example, if it’s a teenager’s bedroom it may not be long before they depart for college leaving an empty room. Therefore, can it be converted into something else at little cost and effort.
- Will the new design complement the existing structure or will you be adding a contemporary look to a traditional design?
- You’re spending budget.

Think this through and decide on the particular service you will require from an architect. You may want to have the architect to take full control of the project design or you can employ their services to provide the drawings and designs only.

There are many ways to find a good architect. The best way is through word of mouth. Ask family, friends or neighbours who have recently used an architect to design their new extension. Ask if they were satisfied with the quality of the service and if they encountered any problems. Also, have a look at their finished project just to make sure.

Once you have found a couple of architect firms set up a meeting with each of them to explain your project. This is a good way to get a feel for how well you could work together. Request a detailed quote with itemized costing. Before signing anything ensure you have an agreement in place that both parties fully understand.

No matter where you live, castle or cottage, there never seems to be enough space. And when you live in a small house, apartment, or shared dwelling it can be especially challenging to find room for life’s accumulations. But not to worry, here are some simple ways to keep your small home looking spacious, stylish, and spectacular!

Clear the Clutter! – If you’re downsizing you may need to be ruthless. Nothing makes a small space feel more cramped than having too much stuff. With your things neatly arranged and out of sight, the space will feel orderly and open.

Let the Light Shine – Any room will look larger if it’s well-lit, either by natural or artificial light. Add lighting features such as wall sconces that project light in all directions and create warm shadows. For a small bathroom, replace fixtures that jut out and take up space with recessed lights.

Go with the Flow – Move furniture and objects away from pathways in your home and keep the floor as clear as possible. Think feng-shui! Creating clear pathways is important for maintaining a sense of spaciousness.

Get Vertical! – Maximize the vertical space in your home to expand your storage capacity. Consider placing cabinets and shelves above desks, countertops and toilets. Floor to ceiling shelving in your bedroom and linen closets can also make a big difference.

Colour Your “Small” World – Light, cool colours on walls like soft blues and greens will open up your room so it looks larger. Paint ceilings white to make them seem higher and airier. Consider painting the same colour in connecting rooms to give the impression of a larger space and Decorate with Paint

Multi-Functional Furniture – Choose your pieces wisely. Many furniture companies now offer stylish pieces (e.g. beds, sofas, ottomans) that serve multiple purposes to help you conserve space. For example, an ottoman can serve up to 4 functions: a stylish centerpiece to your sitting area, an extra seat, a spacious coffee table, and extra storage.

Remember, you don’t have to sacrifice luxury, style or comfort if you live in a small space. Live Large when Small Space Living!