If you’ve been thinking of tackling a much-needed renovation, you may be eager to get started. But being prepared is key. That’s why you should take the time to think about what you want to achieve with the remodel, as well as prepare a list of questions to ask yourself before contacting a Boston contractor. Here are some sample questions you can ask for a smooth renovation process that meets your vision.
1. What rooms do you want to renovate? This sounds like a no-brainer, but just remember that sometimes, renovating one space affects adjoining spaces as well. Even though you may plan to just renovate your open kitchen, the dining or living areas that are connected to it may look and feel dated afterwards. While your budget or schedule may dictate that you only do one room at a time, you should still think about the ramifications on surrounding spaces.
2. How much can you afford to spend? Be realistic when thinking about budget. Don’t forget to factor in things like tax and consultant fees, accommodations if you need to relocate while work is going on, and appliances, lighting fixtures and furniture. The estimate your get from your contractor does not typically include all these other factors.
3. How do you plan to use the room? Will the living room primarily be an entertainment space for your family and guests, or more of a relaxing nook for you and your spouse? Will the new kitchen become a shared living space for your whole family or will it be a sacred space for the passionate chef in the family? The answers to these questions will greatly affect the design, function and look of the room.
4. What design style are you going for? Frommodern and contemporary to transitional and traditional, the style you choose should reflect your personality as well as complement the rest of the home.
5. What are your accessibility needs? If someone in the family has a disability, you will have to center the design around their mobility issues so the house can serve their needs now and in the future. It’s easier to incorporate these things now than to retrofit the space later as their abilities deteriorate further.
6. Is sustainable design important to you? Sustainable development as well as increased energy efficiency are not only good for the environment but for your wallet too. Think about possible trade-offs and costs to incorporate sustainable design before starting the renovation process.
7. What are your color preferences? Do you like bold and bright tones, or do you prefer muted, neutral hues? Do you want color on every surface, or do you prefer neutral walls with pops of colors coming from a few select pieces of furniture and artwork?
8. What kind of flooring do you like? In addition to personal style, think about how you will use the space when considering flooring. Compare and contrast hardwood, engineered wood, porcelain tile, stone, laminate and carpet before you decide. Think about traffic flow and frequency, as well as children and pets in the family.
9. What are your storage requirements? Think about the stuff you already have, and what stuff you plan on buying once the renovation is complete. Always consider storage requirements at the start of any remodel, as it will be challenging and expensive to add more later.
10. What type of materials do you like? Do you like sleek, shiny surfaces such as lacquer and glass, or do you prefer subtle matte finishes? Think about the finishes you want for your countertops, floors, walls, and doors.
Contact AD Construction
If you need help exploring your preferences for your upcoming renovation, feel free to ask our Boston contractors anything you want. Just call AD Construction at 877-345-BUILD to get a free quote and consultation today.
