HC Remodel and Design blog

Top Kitchen Renovation Services in Omaha

Lisa@HCRemodel — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Are you tired of your outdated kitchen? Do you dream of a space that combines style, functionality, and comfort? If so, you are not alone. Many homeowners want to transform their kitchens into beautiful and efficient spaces. Fortunately, expert renovation services can help you achieve your vision. In this guide, we will explore the benefits of kitchen redesign services, the main steps involved in a kitchen renovation, and how much you can expect to invest in this valuable project.

Kitchen Redesign Services

Kitchen redesign services provide tailored solutions for homeowners looking to upgrade their cooking and entertaining areas. These professional services take into account your needs, preferences, and the overall layout of your home. Whether you're looking for a modern look or a more traditional feel, skilled professionals can bring your ideas to life.

When you hire kitchen redesign services, you'll work closely with experienced designers and contractors. They will help you select the right materials, colors, and layouts that suit your lifestyle. From cabinetry to countertops, you will have countless options at your disposal.

Stylish transition kitchen with newly designed cabinets and countertops.

Key Features of Professional Kitchen Renovation

When considering a kitchen renovation, there are several key features to keep in mind. First, layout plays a vital role in a functional kitchen. A well-designed kitchen should enable smooth movement between work zones, such as the cooking area, prepping space, and storage.

Second, storage solutions are essential. Modern designs often include multi-functional cabinetry. Lazy Susans, pull-out drawers, and pantries make it easier to access your cooking utensils and ingredients.

Lastly, lighting significantly enhances the ambiance of your kitchen. The right mix of task, ambient, and accent lighting can turn a drab space into a bright and welcoming environment.

How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Standard Kitchen?

The cost of renovating a standard kitchen varies widely based on several factors. According to statistics, the average kitchen renovation in the U.S. can range from $90,000 to over $250,000. Factors that affect the cost include kitchen size, materials, and whether you're doing a full renovation or just updating specific elements.

For a typical 10x10 kitchen, here's a rough breakdown of potential costs:

Cabinetry and hardware: $40,000 - $70,000
Countertops: $6,000 - $15,000
Appliances: $20,000 - $80,000
Flooring: $5,000 - $10,000
Labor: $30,000 - $70,000

While the numbers may seem daunting, remember that a kitchen renovation is an investment that can increase the value of your home. Choosing the right kitchen renovation services ensures that you get high-quality materials and skilled labor without overspending.

This midcentury modern kitchen is elegant and spacious, with warm wood cabinets, white countertops, and ample natural light, creating an inviting and functional cooking space.

Steps in a Kitchen Renovation Process

Renovating your kitchen may seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it easier. Here are the main phases of the renovation process:

Planning and Design: This is where you outline your needs and desires. Work with designers to create floor plans and 3D renderings.
Budgeting: After finalizing the design, set a budget. Include costs for materials, permits, and labor.
Demolition and Preparation: Remove old components while protecting surrounding areas. This may include knocking down walls, removing countertops, cabinets, and old appliances.
Installation: Once the demolition is complete, skilled professionals will begin to install new cabinets, countertops, flooring, and appliances.
Finishing Touches: Finally, focus on aesthetics with paint, backsplashes, and lighting fixtures to enhance your kitchen's visual appeal.

By following these steps, your dream kitchen can become a reality.

The Importance of Working with Skilled Professionals

Hiring skilled professionals for your kitchen renovation ensures a seamless process. Experts offer invaluable insights into design and functionality, helping you avoid pitfalls such as overspending or poor planning. They can suggest energy-efficient appliances, sustainable materials, and the latest design trends that will stand the test of time.

Additionally, professionals have the experience and knowledge to foresee potential challenges. They can ensure that the project adheres to local building codes and regulations. This way, you avoid unnecessary delays and expense.

The Final Touch: Personalizing Your Kitchen

After completing the major renovations, make your kitchen truly yours through personalization. Consider adding elements that reflect your personality and lifestyle. This could involve choosing a statement light fixture, adding a colorful backsplash, or displaying your favorite cookbooks.

Moreover, incorporating smart technology can enhance the kitchen experience. Smart appliances, automated lighting, and touchless faucets not only increase convenience but can also make cooking and entertaining more enjoyable.

A contemporary kitchen with stylish wooden cabinets, sophisticated lighting, and a large island, offering a cozy and welcoming ambiance.

Why Renovate Your Kitchen?

Renovating your kitchen is not just about aesthetics; it's about transforming your entire home experience. An updated kitchen can serve as the heart of your home, where families bond over meals and friends gather for entertaining.

Moreover, a well-designed kitchen increases your home's value. Prospective buyers often place a high premium on an updated kitchen, making it a wise investment for future resale.

Lastly, a renovated kitchen enhances your quality of life. Enjoying cooking in a beautiful, functional space can rekindle your passion for culinary adventures, making daily routines more pleasant.

Your Path to a Dream Kitchen

If you are ready to take the plunge into a kitchen renovation, remember that the right team can make all the difference. The process might seem daunting, but with expert guidance, you can navigate each phase confidently. Engage with professionals who provide quality kitchen renovation services to help you realize your dream kitchen.

Start your transformation today! Explore designs, gather inspiration, and consult with experts. Your ideal kitchen awaits, ready to be transformed by your personal touch.

Your Luxury Home Remodel Isn't Complete Without These Additions

michele096 — Wed, 29 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT

A luxury home renovation is one of the most exciting times to be a homeowner. When you work with a team that has extensive experience in making remodeling dreams come true, the possibilities are limitless. At HC Remodel & Design, we have over 20 years of experience delivering home remodels that our clients adore. What features should you include in your upcoming remodel? Let's go over some of the most popular options for your home remodeling project.

Expanded and Upgraded Kitchen

Let's face it, nobody likes working in a cluttered or cramped kitchen. It makes cooking and entertaining uncomfortable at best. That's what makes an expanded and upgraded kitchen such a great idea. Say goodbye to the days of having no counter space or fumbling through countless cluttered drawers to find the pan you need. With our design prowess, we can incorporate custom cabinetry, gorgeous quartz countertops, state-of-the-art appliances, a butler's pantry, new flooring, lighting and more. If you decide to expand your kitchen footprint, you can benefit from a thoughtfully laid out and well-organized space with all the room you need to prepare meals, hang out with friends and family, and enjoy a tasty beverage at the end of a hard day. An open floor plan can harmoniously connect your kitchen to adjoining rooms, making the spaces feel more in sync with each other.

Home Office

You may think you only need a home office if you work from home. While this space is especially important for remote workers, its benefits extend beyond just working from home. Having a beautiful space dedicated to working, studying, and even relaxing can truly change your day-to-day life. If the pandemic taught us anything, it's that as much as we need places to gather together, we also need spaces for quiet reflection. Consider adding beautiful hardwood flooring, elegant architectural trim, and plenty of natural light to promote creativity and productivity. Since you'll likely be spending quite a bit of time in your new home office, don't skimp on the furniture and decor! Be sure to add quality desk chairs for ergonomic support, arresting artwork, comfortable sofas, and a large bookshelf to make your space stand out.

Basement Renovation

One of our favorite things about basement renovations is the sheer number of possibilities for this space with often untapped potential. If your basement hasn't been touched since your house was built, there's never been a better time to prioritize upgrades. You can turn your space into a movie theater to catch the newest blockbuster or big game, a wine cellar to create memories with friends and family, or even an additional living space that's complete with new couches, a television, and more! We'd be happy to help you bring your basement vision to life when you work with us.

According to WebFX, 69% of homeowners felt an increased sense of enjoyment in their homes after renovations. There's never been a better time to dive into the world of luxury remodels than now. At HC Remodel and Design, we've led the way for Omaha, NE, homeowners to transform their homes. If you want to get started with home remodeling, reach out to us today to learn more about our team and sophisticated design-build process.

Kitchen Remodel Ideas for the Luxury Homeowner in Omaha, NE

michele096 — Mon, 27 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Are you interested in upgrading your kitchen? You can find inspiration here! Let's take a look at a few ideas that you should consider when planning your kitchen remodel with our dependable design-build firm in Omaha, NE. A kitchen remodel is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make, both for how your home feels day to day and for how much your family gets out of the space. Whether you cook every night or love to host friends and family, the right layout, storage, and lighting can completely change the way your kitchen works. Below, we walk through three of the improvements our clients ask about most.

Update the Layout

Your kitchen's layout can either improve or hinder the flow. If you're starting to think that your kitchen is cramped, our team at HC Remodel & Design can upgrade your kitchen to have a better layout to improve functionality. Whether you're a chef or an entertainer, you know you want that great space to ensure that all of your needs are met.

An open-concept design is gaining popularity amongst homeowners all across the country. When you have family and friends over at your home, they'll want to hang out in the kitchen while you cook. You don't want a cramped space where you can't move around. With an open layout, you can ensure that everyone is comfortable.

Add More Storage Space

Storage is essential for all homeowners. With the right number of cabinets, you can ensure that all of your kitchen necessities have a place to sit. This way, the countertops aren't cluttered with smaller appliances and food that you don't have room for in the pantry. A great way to gain more storage and countertop space is by adding an island. There are so many varieties of islands that you can choose from, including ones with hidden or open cabinets.

Another great way that you can utilize your storage space is by adding drawer organizers and dividers. This will keep all of your utensils, spices, and kitchen gadgets organized. It's also important to utilize vertical space. You can add open shelving on a bare wall to create more space for various kitchen tools.

Add More Lighting

When you're cooking and entertaining, it's important that your kitchen has adequate lighting. Lighting makes the space feel brighter and larger and can also serve as a great decorative element. You may want to consider adding a statement lighting fixture. You can add pendant lights above the island and add under-cabinet lighting to illuminate the countertops. Adding additional lighting can make the room feel more elegant and ensure everyone can see clearly even when it's late.

According to Architectural Digest, kitchen remodels are the most popular upgrade. When you're interested in improving the look of your kitchen, don't wait to get in touch with our team at HC Remodel & Design. We have years of experience helping residents in Omaha, NE get the kitchen they've been dreaming of. Whether you have a list of ideas you'd like us to make a reality or you're looking for any inspiration, our team is here to help. Give us a call today to start planning your kitchen remodel. You can take a look at our previous projects to gain inspiration and see exactly what we can do for your home. We look forward to hearing from you and answering any questions you may have about our process.

Renovation Reveals: Two Stunning Omaha Home Makeovers

michele096 — Thu, 02 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Because we entered these two projects in the PRO Spring Remodeled Home Tour, we had to keep the photos and details of these renovations under wraps until the tour event was concluded. As you might imagine, we are very excited to finally be able to showcase this work here on our website. Read on for background on each project, as well as photos and links to a virtual 3D tour of each renovated space.

Reveal #1: A Modern Twist on a Mid-Century Ranch Home

The owners of this mid-century modern ranch home built in 1962 approached us for help giving their home a much-needed update while preserving its timeless charm. The HC Remodel & Design team leapt at the chance to meld historical character with contemporary functionality in the kitchen.

Although the kitchen's classic galley style echoed the home's mid-century roots, outdated finishes left it feeling disjointed from the rest of the dwelling. With a keen eye for preserving the home's clean lines and simplicity, our team ingeniously tackled the challenges of the U-shaped kitchen layout, which had previously caused congestion and frustration for the homeowners. Through strategic placement of high-usage elements and the incorporation of sleek cabinetry and trim featuring clean, straight lines, the kitchen was transformed into a harmonious space that seamlessly blends modern convenience with iconic mid-century aesthetics. Wraparound floating shelves adorned with vertical LED lighting serve as the crowning touch, infusing the kitchen with a contemporary flair while maintaining its airy ambiance.

View more photos below, or take a virtual tour of the project.

Before

After

Reveal #2: A Kitchen Transformation with Style & Functionality

Our second project is located in Saddlebrook. Where a once-dark and disconnected kitchen existed, see how it has now blossomed into a luminous, integrated space. Our clients, seeking to infuse their traditional home with light and personality, entrusted us with revitalizing their kitchen. The removal of a cumbersome wall marked the beginning of a journey towards openness and cohesion, extending the kitchen into the dining area and fostering a more inviting atmosphere.

Consistent flooring and a light paint palette throughout the living area further enhanced the sense of unity and brightness. Employing light finishes in the kitchen amplified luminosity, while accents of dark stained wood on key elements provided contrast and warmth. Witness this remarkable metamorphosis below or take a virtual tour and discover how strategic design interventions can overcome layout challenges and infuse your home with an airy, welcoming ambiance.

Before

After

We hope these projects inspire you! If you're seeking to upgrade, brighten or integrate your space, contact HC Remodel & Design today.

Experience The Latest Trends in Remodeling at The Spring Remodeled Home Tour in Omaha, NE

michele096 — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Editor's Note: This event has concluded — enjoy the project details and photos below

The PRO Remodeled Home Tour is one of the best ways to experience home remodeling inspiration firsthand. Hosted by The Professional Remodeling Organization of Nebraska and Iowa (PRO NE-IA), it gives homeowners an up-close look at some of the most stunning home makeovers in the region through both in-person and virtual tours.

For the 2024 tour, HC Remodel & Design was proud to have two of our recently completed projects featured. Read on for a closer look at these transformations and the challenges our team solved along the way.

A Mid-Century Marvel in West Omaha

This single-family mid-century modern ranch home was built in 1962 and is a beautiful example of mid-century modern architecture. The kitchen reflected the classic galley style so popular with this movement, but the finishes felt completely from another era and were disconnected from the rest of the mid-century details in the home. Our goal was to reconnect with the home's historic character while updating the space to be more functional and vibrant.

The homeowners loved the layout, but wanted to find a solution to the kitchen's more challenging aspects. We're thrilled with how our design team created a plan for maintaining the clean, simple lines of the home's historic aesthetic while overcoming the challenges of the U-shaped galley kitchen layout, which featured multiple points of entry, resulting in congestion and a lot of frustration.

By strategically placing high-usage elements, like appliances and storage areas, throughout the kitchen space, we were able to eliminate the frustrating bottlenecks.

|ith an eye toward reconnecting with the iconic look of the mid-century kitchen, our design team incorporated cabinetry and trim which all featured clean, straight lines.

By bringing in light materials, accented by the richer walnut cabinets, we created visual interest while maintaining the airy feel of the space. Wraparound floating shelves finish the look with vertical LED lighting, bringing in an additional modern touch.

A Traditional Kitchen Transformation in Saddlebrook

Our Saddlebrook clients came to us in need of a brighter, more integrated kitchen. Their traditional home's kitchen left a lot to be desired. It felt dark and unwelcoming, with a large wall that blocked off anyone working in the kitchen from those in the rest of the first-floor living spaces. Tired of the disconnect and wanting to add more personal style to the builder-grade materials in the kitchen, our clients tasked us with turning this space around.

We began by addressing that stubborn wall that added a barrier to conversation and entertaining. Once this was removed, we also extended the kitchen into the dining space, creating a welcoming, more open and airy atmosphere. To create a cohesive feel in the living area, we installed consistent flooring and applied the same light paint color throughout. Light finishes were also used in the kitchen to enhance brightness in the space.

For contrast and to add warmth, we finished the remodel with touches of dark stained wood on the kitchen island, stair rail, and fireplace mantle.

If you struggle with layout issues in your home or want to bring more light and an airy feel to your space, these are exactly the kinds of challenges our team loves to solve.

Achieve a Stunning Home Makeover of Your Own

Events like the PRO Remodeled Home Tour are a great reminder of how much a home can be transformed with the insights and craftsmanship of a professional design-build firm. We are grateful to our clients for opening their homes to share their finished remodeling projects with other homeowners.

Whether your home needs a smarter layout, brighter finishes, or a full transformation, our team can help you bring your vision to life. From the first design conversation through the final walkthrough, we guide you every step of the way.

Ready to start planning your own remodel? Get in touch with our team to begin the conversation.

Why selecting the correct paint colors can make or break a project

Lisa@HCRemodel — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT

Color is one of the most important elements of interior design. It can set the tone of a room, make it feel larger or smaller, and even affect our mood. When choosing paint colors for your home, it's important to consider a number of factors, including:

The mood you want to create. Do you want a relaxing bedroom, an energizing kitchen, or a cozy living room? The colors you choose will play a big role in setting the tone.
The size of the room. Lighter colors can make a small room feel larger, while darker colors can make a large room feel more intimate.
The amount of natural light the room receives. Rooms with a lot of natural light can handle darker colors, while rooms with less natural light may need lighter colors to brighten them up.
Your personal style. Do you prefer bold colors or neutral hues? Traditional or contemporary looks? Choose colors that you love and that reflect your personality.

Here are five tips for selecting the correct room colors for your home:

1. Consider the mood you want to create

Each color has a different psychological effect. For example, blue is often associated with feelings of calm and relaxation, while red is associated with excitement and energy. Think about the mood you want to create in each room and choose colors accordingly. Here are some general guidelines:

Living room: A warm and inviting space where you can relax and entertain guests. Choose colors that are both inviting and comfortable.
Dining room: A space where you can enjoy meals with family and friends. Choose colors that are both stylish and conducive to conversation.
Kitchen: A space where you cook and prepare meals. Choose colors that are both bright and functional.
Bedroom: A space where you can relax and unwind. Choose colors that are both soothing and calming.
Bathroom: A space where you can get ready for the day or relax in the evening. Choose colors that are both refreshing and spa-like.

2. Take into account the size of the room

Lighter colors can make a small room feel larger, while darker colors can make a large room feel more intimate. If you have a small room, avoid using too many dark colors, as this can make the space feel cramped. Instead, opt for lighter colors or neutrals. If you have a large room, you can use darker colors to create a more cozy and inviting space. However, be careful not to overuse dark colors, as this can make the room feel too small and enclosed.

3. Consider the amount of natural light the room receives

Rooms with a lot of natural light can handle darker colors, while rooms with less natural light may need lighter colors to brighten them up. If you have a room with a lot of natural light, you can use darker colors to create a more dramatic effect. However, if you have a room with less natural light, it's best to stick to lighter colors.

4. Choose colors that you love and that reflect your personal style

Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose colors that you love and that reflect your personal style. Don't be afraid to experiment and try different colors until you find the perfect ones for your home.

5. Get samples before you buy

Once you've narrowed down your color choices, be sure to get samples before you buy. This will allow you to see how the colors look in your home under different lighting conditions. You can also use the samples to paint a small area of the wall so you can get a better idea of how the color will look in the entire room.

Selecting the correct room colors for your home can be a daunting task, but it's important to remember that there are no hard and fast rules. By following the tips above, you can choose colors that you love and that will create a home that is both stylish and inviting.

That 3-Bid Rule?... It's All Wrong!

Lisa@HCRemodel — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT

You've done it! You've made the decision to start that remodel project you've been dreaming of! So now you've begun the search for the right contractor. You've asked friends and family for recommendations, searched the web for local businesses, and maybe even flipped through the Yellow Pages. You have a list of candidates and it's time to start the next step: the bidding process. Or… is it?

Where did the 3-bid rule originate?

"Be sure and get a bid from at least three different contractors" is a fairly standard piece of advice that has been given to homeowners for years. But the truth is: this piece of advice is misleading!

This 3-Bid Rule actually originated from the commercial construction industry. In commercial construction, an investor/owner will start with a complete and comprehensive design. Once a design is approved, it is handed off to a Specifier. The Specifier's role is to source all material that will be used in the project. At that point, all of the aforementioned details are provided to three contractors who place competitive bids on the labor needed for completion. With this practice, investors are able to gain a true apples-to-apples comparison for each bid.

Why not with my project?

In the commercial bid example above, the design is already created and there is one person who specs out all materials, only leaving labor to be bid. With a residential remodel, very rarely are designs completed by the time bidding happens and even when they are, it is up to the contractor to source all of the materials for the project. What this means is the approach, labor costs, and material costs can vary significantly from contractor to contractor. This variation only intensifies if a design is not formulated yet, which is often the case. So getting three (or more) bids can get you three prices, but the basis for each number entirely relies on the business practices of each contractor. Long story short, it's nearly impossible for a consumer to accurately compare bids because the base line varies so greatly. One bid for a bathroom remodel comes in at $70,000 and another at $40,000. Is this simply because the first company is expensive, or is it because the other forgot important details? Unfortunately, it's pretty hard to know.

Okay, so how do I select a contractor?

There are a few different tactics you can utilize to help vet contractors. First, look at their portfolio and/or website. Although a picture can't tell you how smooth the remodel process went, it's a good way to see their design styles and attention to detail. Critique their website, if they have one at all. In today's age, a website that looks good and functions well is a must. If a company does not have a website, or clearly didn't spend time cultivating it, that could tell you they may not be tech friendly. This isn't always a deal-breaker, but it can have a big effect on quick communication, paper trails and written accountability, scheduling, and electronic payments. All things to consider when starting a remodel.

Second, do they have good customer service? Having good customer service is a clear and easy method of identifying how a company will treat you before, during, and even after your remodel. It's simple assessments like: Do they answer their phone the first time you call? If they miss your call, how long does it take for them to call you back? Do they have an office staff to help with client communication and project management? Do they seem organized and thorough? All of these factors can tell you how you can expect to be treated throughout your remodel.

Lastly, go with your gut. A contractor could tick all of the aforementioned boxes but if, during your in-person consultation, they give you bad vibes, don't go with them. Establishing trust and comfortability with your contractor is extremely important. You need to be able to trust that whoever you choose will be safe in your home, and that their crew is reliable and trustworthy. This, above all else, is fundamental when selecting a contractor.

The True Rule: You Get What You Pay For

As much as I wish it was not the case, this is the true rule to keep in mind when selecting a contractor. Whether we like it or not, quality is not cheap. This extends way beyond the materials you select; it infuses everything from the craftsmanship of the carpenters to the customer service. We all (or at least some of us) enjoy good bargain shopping and no one wants to be taken advantage of. However, when it comes to selecting a contractor, you might end up eating those savings by the end of your project, while gaining some gray hairs in the process, if you choose solely on price.

Moral of the story, choosing a good contractor is no simple task but, keeping in mind the factors listed above, it might be a little bit easier.

Synopsis: Pay attention to the details (what signals are they sending you about how their company operates from the moment of your first phone call?), do your research into each contractor (not simply bid price comparisons), and don't assume price is the only difference between contractors.

I’m Dreaming of...Costs WHAT!?

Lisa@HCRemodel — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT

We think one of the most fun parts of a remodel project is the "dreaming" stage: sharing with your Designer all the things you'd like to change, the details you'd like to implement, the Pinterest ideas you've saved (just to name a few!). And while it is very easy to dream big, it might be a bit harder to make the most of your investment into your home. Here are a few tips on how to make your dreams reality and maximize the investment you are putting into your project.

1. Prioritize your non-negotiables

The top three big-ticket items are electrical, plumbing, and masonry (brick work, cement pouring, etc.). Is knocking that wall out between your kitchen and dining room a top priority? Is adding extra lighting into your bathroom ceiling a "must"? Knowing your non-negotiables is the first step to setting you up for success in your remodel.

Once you know what your "must-haves" are, you can rely on the expertise of your contractor to start formulating the overall investment projection. They will help you understand what it means to your pocketbook to remove that living room wall. Factors like whether it is load bearing, if utilities need to be moved, or it just being a simple dividing wall have a significant impact on cost. This way you can be prepared with the numbers for your non-negotiables or make tweaks to make the most of the investment you're putting into your home.

2. Buyer beware: online project cost averages are not always accurate

Doing a quick search of "how much should my remodel cost" is often the first thing one does when planning out the future of their home projects. But be aware: most online cost reports do not accurately reflect market trends, inflation costs, and other miscellaneous external factors. Nor will they reflect the true cost of hiring a professional contractor. A high-end remodeler, such as HC Remodel & Design, uses semi-custom to custom materials and fixtures, which may increase the expense, but will also increase the quality of your renovation.

Another thought to consider when doing your online research is that many Cost vs. Value articles will showcase how "budget-friendly" and "inexpensive" some updates can be. For example, repainting or replacing trim work may be "low-cost" options. The reality is that while the true cost per square foot may not be as expensive as removing a load bearing wall, those options will typically happen in larger areas, therefore compounding the cost for materials and labor. Trust that your contractor isn't charging you an arm and a leg for something you may think is inexpensive, and remember that this cost spans a much larger amount of square footage.

3. Do your research!

If you're starting with a Designer, get to know their work first and be sure that your Designer will work within your planned investment, too! Ensure their selections fit within your style and your finances by looking at their documents and past designs in their portfolio. (Our Tips for Finding a Designer can help get you started.)

When it comes to a Contractor, your Designer may have a few they prefer to work with that they will refer you to. Ask questions about them: Why do they [the Designer] recommend them? What do they specialize in? What are their primary values [and do they line up with yours]?

If your Designer doesn't have a recommendation for a Contractor, or you decide to find one on your own, be sure you know what quality of work you want (AKA what the experience will be) before you start your search. Choosing a Contractor that does high-quality work and is trustworthy can help save you dollars down the road. Remember: most of the time, you get what you pay for!

4. It's OK to ask all the questions!

Communication is key to avoiding sticker shock, something everyone wants to avoid. Be sure to constantly be communicating with your Designer. Before they even get started on your project, ask them what some of their previous clients have invested into their projects. Check on the levels of finishes and what those costs are (generally the more unique and/or custom features, the higher the cost will be). Be sure that you are comfortable with a Designer and Contractor's "rough number," so you don't have to make major modifications to bring the investment range down, as this usually causes delays and ends up costing more money in the long run.

Have fun with the "dreaming" stage, but be sure to have a little give-and-take, share a rough idea of your planned investment with your Designer, ask questions so you're fully aware of those costs, and be open and comfortable that your design may be more or less than what you anticipate. These things will help keep those remodel costs as realistic for you as possible.

Am I Ready for a Remodel?

Lisa@HCRemodel — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Everyone has something in their home that they would like to change. Bigger kitchen cabinets. A nicer shower. More closet space. Maybe it's a kitchen that feels stuck in another decade, or a floor plan that no longer fits the way your family actually lives. The question is: when's the best time to do it? Deciding to remodel is a big step, and knowing whether you're truly ready can save you time, money, and stress down the road. Here are four questions to ask yourself when getting started.

1. What do you dislike about your space?

This may seem like an obvious question, but clearly identifying your "pain points" can get you one step closer to a plan of action. First, try making a list of what details really matter to you and have it on hand when you call the remodeling company. If you are struggling to identify exactly what about the space you dislike, hiring a design team, whether through an interior design firm or a design-build contractor, can help answer these questions. They'll help you work out the logistics.

2. What do you like about your space?

Knowing what you like about the space you're remodeling can be just as important as knowing what you dislike. It tells you what about the space can stay the same, and it helps to set the budget. Not liking the coloration of your room doesn't necessarily mean you need to redo your room. Maybe the walls are fine, and it's the flooring that needs attention. You'll save yourself a lot of time by identifying the things you'd like to keep the same in the space or spaces you want to remodel. Consider making a second list, this one stating the things that you would like to stay the same. That way, when it comes time to make the official decision on what needs to change, you feel one hundred percent confident in your decision. This also leads into the next question.

3. What is your personal style?

It can be easy to let the ideas and opinions of others sway you. Neighbors, family members, spouses… even blogs on redecorating can lead to people thinking they want a particular type of remodel that they really don't. Lots of designs look nice but aren't necessarily what you want to see every day. It's important to stop and think about what you want to see every single day, regardless of how impressive it will or won't be to the neighbors. It's your house and your space. While the design team will help take your ideas and make them a reality, having a firm grasp on how you want the space to look can save a lot of time and money.

4. Should I hire a remodeling company?

For smaller projects, like repainting a room, probably not. For medium-sized and larger projects, though, the answer is almost always "yes." Remodeling on your own can be messy, time-consuming, expensive, and often leads to hiring a remodeling company regardless. By hiring a trusted company to do your remodeling from the very beginning, you don't just save time and money. You also get to rest easy knowing it'll look good at the end.

Once you've answered all these questions and are confident in your desire to remodel, call us at 402-403-2378. We're excited to work with you!