A Fresh Start For You and Your Home

January is that special month when resolutions abound in your home and yourself.  My belief has always been improving your home, which is an extension of YOU, will actually jump start YOUR self-improvement, as well.  So here are some of my best suggestions to start improving your home!

Homework Suggestions
Set up a list of questions to ask yourself such as:
• Do you want to replace in the same space, or look to expand into other adjacent areas?
• Do you want to retain a general contractor or hire individual trades whom you will supervise?
• Would you benefit from the services of a designer or architect?
• What are the things you want most from this upgrade?
• What should you plan on purchasing to make this project worthwhile?
• How will you prepare realistic budget options?

Important Steps for Renovating
1. Discuss needs and wishes and determine whether you want to undergo a major or minor project and inquire about funding.
2. If major renovation is required, are you willing to move out or get storage pods, if needed?
3. Make a list of priorities before you call in a professional team (designer, architect, and contractor) and look at magazines, homes in the neighborhood, etc. for ideas.
4. Bring in the professionals for a consultation before you hire anyone, get references and make your final decision.
5. Start with the interior designer and get space plan alternatives.
6. Next bring in the architect for a feasibility study of interior plans and to make exterior drawings.
7. Check town or municipality requirements and decide who will file plans.
8. When the plans are finalized, give the same plan to all general contractors bidding your job and be sure to get references.
9. Compare contracts and prices to make sure of what’s included and what’s not and how long it will take to complete.
10. Schedule payments based on accomplished work and make sure your team is working together.

Don’t Shop Without a Plan When Decorating
1. Choose colors you want to live with for the long haul and start with patterned carpet or area rugs of your choice and not with the flavor of the month.
2. Select paint colors after carpet, furniture and window treatment fabric selections.
3. Use your present furniture as placeholders rather than settle for poor quality in your haste to complete the project.
4. Save money by doing some work yourself, if it will look professionally done.
5. Leave time for you to get used to your new furnishings before you shop for window treatments and accessories.
6. Start accessorizing with your own things (collectibles, books, photos, etc.) and then add new accessories.

Note – To learn the best way to handle your renovating/decorating project, joint us at a FREE brunch at Windows on the Lake, January 31, 2016, 10:00 AM–1:00 PM.
RSVP – www.uniquelynatalie.com.