Many remodeling projects proceed smoothly with a contractor overseeing the project. There are some remodeling projects, however, that require the different skills sets an architect brings. Here’s how to know when to hire one for your home improvement project.

An Eye for Design
Architects review the remodeling project for major structural and design issues; draw plans for the contractor and municipality to use; and provide a view on the architectural aspects of remodeling. How will a kitchen remodeling or room addition blend in with the existing structure? What style of windows will blend with your home’s architecture? While some contractors can answers those questions, they typically do not have the same depth of expertise in design areas.

Benefits and Costs
An architect also can serve as the home owner’s representative to help shepherd the remodeling project through zoning; talk with building inspectors or discuss remodeling issues with the contractor. This can be a valuable service, but there is a fee.

Architectural fees typically run from $2,000 to a percentage of the project costs on large home improvement projects. On an average sized kitchen remodeling, you might spend $5,000 to $10,000. Some architects allow you to pick and choose services, such as purchasing the design drawings, but not the weekly oversight of the project. You should weigh your home improvement experience and available time when considering which services you want.

An architect can be a highly valuable resource, but consider your project carefully before taking that step. If your remodeling involves major structural work or changes to the floor plan, roof lines or exterior building materials, an architect can be a good resource. If your kitchen remodeling involves switching out cabinets without changing the layout, then it may not be worth the expense.

Source
American Institute of Architects, You and Your Architect

A few places that make people stop and say, “Wow!” are the highlight of any good kitchen design.

If your kitchen needs a little wow factor, here’s how to go about adding it. Start by taking a cold, hard look around. Pretend you are seeing it for the first time. Are there a few areas that stick out that need a good remodeling or designer’s touch?

Kitchen Contractors
It helps to have a few remodeling contractors take a look. Ask the contractors for ideas on quick fixes and longer term projects. You need to weigh what makes sense for your kitchen design and financial situation.

Remodeling Focal Points
The kitchen cabinets are a great, first place to start, as they are the focus of most kitchen designs. If you’re working with older cabinets that lack the style and convenience of today’s cabinets, it’s worth asking the contractors about newer products. There are many different wood species, such as cherry and maple, and unique stains and glazes to consider.

Another key focal point is the countertop and sink area. A granite countertop and stainless steel sink can boost any kitchen design. This is a fairly quick remodeling project and one that can be done with new cabinets or as its own project.

The backsplash area above the countertop can also be a great focal point. If your wall is painted, consider adding an upscale stone tile with a unique pattern. This is one remodeling boost that adds great visual appeal and can make cleanup easier.

There are many ways to use focal points to boost your kitchen design. Narrow down your options, choose two or three places, and have some fun.

Source
How Stuff Works, How to Design a Kitchen, by Mary Wynn Ryan

Cabin home decor can begin with a few basic necessities like sofas, dining room table and possibly some chairs. Many like to decorate with homey accessories to create a comfortable environment. Some even have their own pots and pans and with more exclusive cabins a washer and dryer. This can be one of the most convenient accessories to have when one is vacationing at a cabin.

The cost of furnishing any home can vary. This will depend largely on what the budget will be and the time involved. If one had a huge budget then taking the time to search for the ideal items would be recommended. If one were not too concerned with filling up each room with furniture all at once then it becomes less stressful and one could take their time and enjoy each room to see what would be a perfect fit.

There are other tips to get furniture into any home or apartment which can be very affordable. One of the ways would be to shop at the thrift stores and see what kind of bargains they may have at that time. These stores have some very stylish items and one of a kind furnishings that could be a great addition to any home.

Surfing the internet for auction websites would be another great way to gain items for the residence at a great price. This is one of the quickest ways to review items in the comfort of your home. Most of these vendors will send along a sample piece of fabric if they feel that they are dealing with a serious buyer.

There are those fortunate folks who have a healthy income and can afford to hire an Interior Designer to help with the arrangement of furnishings. These seasoned pros come with a pricey fee but the outcome is guaranteed to be a success. These pro’s will meet with the folks to get an idea of what the owners are hoping for and make suggestions as the need arises.

Depending on what the cabin is going to be used for and how often it will be occupied will be one of the determining factors on how to decorate each room. Some will rent to outsiders for additional income and if that is the case, some additional thoughts on what type of furnishings would be right for this rental.

Some use the cabin only during skiing season and their preference is to keep it uninhabited during the other seasons. This would require covering up furnishings to protect them. Taking these extra measures ensures that the property is intact and if there are needed repairs that the issues are dealt with in a timely manner.

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