design build | Sweeten https://sweeten.com/tag/design-build/ Renovation stories, tips, and inspiration Mon, 19 Dec 2022 21:04:37 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 https://sweeten.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/cropped-sweetenlogo-pinterest2-1-1-150x150.png design build | Sweeten https://sweeten.com/tag/design-build/ 32 32 The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a General Contractor for Your Remodel https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/the-ultimate-guide-to-hiring-a-general-contractor-for-your-remodel/ https://sweeten.com/process-and-planning/the-ultimate-guide-to-hiring-a-general-contractor-for-your-remodel/#respond Fri, 16 Dec 2022 19:55:21 +0000 https://sweeten.com/?p=57077 Ready to start your remodel? Here’s everything you need to know about hiring a general contractor Home remodeled by a general contractor with Sweeten Major remodeling projects are extremely complex, and require a high degree of planning, coordination, and oversight. That’s where general contractors come in. At Sweeten, we’re experts at all things general contractors […]

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Ready to start your remodel? Here’s everything you need to know about hiring a general contractor

amagansett beach house remodel with wood floors and pitched ceilings
Home remodeled by a general contractor with Sweeten

Major remodeling projects are extremely complex, and require a high degree of planning, coordination, and oversight. That’s where general contractors come in. 

At Sweeten, we’re experts at all things general contractors — we pre-screen them for our network, carefully select the best ones for your remodeling project, and work closely with hundreds of contractors every day. So, we’ve tapped our expertise to give you everything you need to know when it comes to hiring a general contractor. 

Skip to: How do you hire a general contractor?

What is a general contractor? 

General contractors, known more simply as contractors or “GCs”, are the lead professionals on major construction projects. They oversee teams of subcontractors such as carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and painters, who carry out the various specialized aspects of each construction job. They’re responsible for procuring materials, obtaining permits, and ensuring that a project is completed according to plan. Depending on the specific requirements of a given project, they may also be responsible for coordinating with architects or designers, coop or condo boards, engineers, expediters, or inspectors. 

The term “general contractor” can be used interchangeably to refer to an individual person or a general contracting company. These companies come in all shapes and sizes, from one- and two-person operations, to mid-sized companies of 10-20 employees, and even large firms of 50 employees or more. 

Depending on your area or region, general contractors may also be known as home improvement contractors, builders, renovation contractors, or remodeling contractors. 

What makes a great general contractor? 

At Sweeten, we’ve been vetting and working closely with general contractors for over a decade. In addition to our 7-step contractor vetting process, here’s what we think gives some contractors that extra edge and a reputation of satisfied clients:

  • Communication: There are a lot of variables in the construction process. A great general contractor understands the dynamic environment in which they work, anticipates potential issues, and is proactive in communicating all of this with their clients. They can provide clear instructions to subcontractors and are open to feedback. 
  • Realism: The best general contractors are honest with clients about what their budget can realistically achieve, and will work with them to create a feasible scope of work, so that they can adhere to budgets and timelines. 
  • Agility: When the unforeseen inevitably happens on a major project, great contractors can think critically on their feet and approach their clients with proposed solutions. They can handle a variety of tasks and adapt to changes.
  • Eye for detail: A great contractor does not make excuses for shoddy work. They scan their jobs with a fine tooth comb, regularly looking for imperfections in craftsmanship and addressing them head on — not avoiding them and hoping their client doesn’t notice!
  • Tidiness: A great GC will clearly spell out the ways in which they intend to protect your home and personal belongings in their estimates & contracts. If your GC doesn’t have a game plan for protecting your beloved possessions, look the other way! 

Typical remodeling projects

You’ll probably need to hire a general contractor if you’re planning a project like renovating a kitchen, remodeling a bathroom, finishing a basement or attic, adding a deck or patio, remodeling an entire home, or converting a garage into an accessory dwelling unit. They focus on transformative projects that involve multiple trades, which is why you’ll typically only hire a general contractor for projects that cost $15,000 and up. 

Traditional general contractors vs design-build contractors

A traditional general contractor oversees all of the build-related aspects of a given job. They are responsible for procuring materials, hiring subcontractors, and managing the construction process. While general contractors are not responsible for design work, some are happy to offer creative solutions to smaller-scale design challenges, or even produce basic renderings where advanced design services are not necessary. The level of creative input you can expect from a traditional contractor varies greatly from firm to firm. 

A design-build company, on the other hand, is a company that takes responsibility for both the design and construction of a project. They typically have in-house architects and designers, as well as construction experts, that work together to create the plans and then carry out the construction. Where architectural design service is required, design-build companies are often the most efficient option, as they can take responsibility for the entire project from start to finish.

At Sweeten, we work with both traditional and design-build contractors, and with so many firms that we cover a broad range of service offerings to meet your needs. Post your project to start connecting with our vetted, trusted contractors today!  

Why hire a qualified general contractor for your remodeling project?

Because remodeling projects are so expensive, you may be tempted to save money by making yours a DIY project or hiring unqualified labor at a discount, but cutting these types of corners carries major risks, including:

  • Inferior workmanship: A DIYer or unqualified contractor may not have the necessary skills or experience to complete the project to a high standard. This can result in poor quality work that may need to be redone or repaired, which can be costly and time-consuming.
  • Code violations: Building codes and regulations exist to ensure the safety and stability of structures. A DIYer or unqualified contractor may not be familiar with these codes and could potentially make mistakes that violate them, leading to problems and costly repairs down the line.
  • Increased liability: If an accident or injury occurs on the job site and the contractor is found to be at fault, the homeowner may be held liable for any damages. This can be particularly risky if the person doing the work does not have the necessary insurance.
  • Delays and cost overruns: A DIYer or unqualified contractor may not have the knowledge or resources to accurately estimate the time and cost of a project. This can result in delays and unexpected expenses.

General contractors are there to ensure that your project is completed in a safe, efficient, and code-compliant manner. Additionally, contractors can tap their vast experience to provide valuable advice and guidance on how to best complete your project, including, importantly, helping to identify potential issues before they become major problems. 

What kind of training do contractors have? 

General contractors typically have a variety of training experiences, including classes, certifications, and on-the-job experience. Many general contractors have a degree in construction management or a related field, and may also have industry certifications from organizations such as the National Association of Home Builders or the American Institute of Constructors. Additionally, many general contractors gain experience through apprenticeships or hands-on experience working on construction sites. With such a wide range of training, they are able to bring a variety of skills and knowledge to the table, ensuring that any project they undertake is completed professionally and to the highest standards.

What are the license requirements for contractors?

The licensing requirements for general contractors in the United States vary from state to state, and often between local municipalities, so it’s important to look up your local requirements if you want to be sure what is required in your area. 

Most states have a state-wide license requirement for general contractors. The exact requirements vary by state, but usually include passing a written exam, providing proof of financial responsibility, and providing proof of experience in the construction field. In most cases, applicants must also provide proof of insurance, as well as a bond to guarantee their work. In some states, general contractors may also have to complete additional training or courses in order to obtain their license. 

For example, in California, general contractors must pass a written exam that covers state laws, construction codes, and business practices. They must also provide proof of financial responsibility and experience in the construction field. In addition, they must complete a 16-hour pre-licensing course and a 4-hour exam prep course in order to obtain their license. In contrast, in Texas, there is no statewide license required for general contractors. 

Generally, if you’re in a major metro area that metro may issue a license, which may also correspond with a county license. Or, you may live in a town or city that has specific licensing or permitting requirements that general contractors hold for a set amount of time or on a per-job basis.

How much does it cost to remodel with a general contractor? 

A combination of service level, experience, and factors like firm size and overhead might all contribute to how competitive a contractor’s pricing is. General contractors make money by charging a fee for their services, which may include a commission or markup on any materials purchased and labor costs. They may also charge additional fees for project management, risk management, or other services. The general contractor’s fee, whether a flat rate or a percentage of the total project cost, is usually negotiated with the client prior to the start of the project. 

We have an extensive library of remodeling cost guides to help you plan your project budget, plus hundreds of additional renovation process and planning guides. Below are a few of our most popular guides:

When you post your remodeling project on Sweeten, you’ll get matched with a selection of contractors for competitive bids, so that you can feel good about the balance of cost and value that you’ll get from the contractor you ultimately select to work with. Learn more about how Sweeten works.  

How do you hire a general contractor? 

You’ve come to the right place — helping people hire the right contractor for their remodeling project is exactly what we do at Sweeten! Here’s a breakdown of the process. 

1. Source 3-5 contractors who are fit for the job 

This is so much easier said than done! You’ll want to research and narrow down a handful of qualified general contractors, with the right experience, who work in your area, who provide the services you need, at your budget level, and who are available and interested in the job. You could start by asking friends or researching online, and making some phone calls — however, if you’re in one of Sweeten’s service areas, we highly recommend that you save yourself the legwork and start meeting trusted contractors on Sweeten!

2. Hold site visits

Schedule and hold a separate meeting at your project site with each of the contractors you’d like to get a bid from. This is your chance to learn more about their firm and evaluate how well you think you’d work together with them. Come prepared with questions! (Hint: we made you a list below.) 

3. Collect estimates

After your site visits — unless otherwise discussed — each contractor should prepare an estimate, or bid, for your project. This process can usually take 1-2 weeks, since they’ll need to coordinate with their subcontractors to prepare the document. 

4. Compare the bids

There’s no standard form for contractor estimates, so it’s rare that you can truly compare them apples to apples. Instead, you’ll need to comb through to get an idea of what is and is not included in each bid, ask some questions, and do your best to evaluate those differences. This is the critical decision-making stage, which is why we offer a free bid-leveling call to help you make the best hiring choice for your project.

5. Conduct negotiations

At this point, you should have a good idea of who you’d like to work with, but is there one or two items you’d love tweaked on their proposal before you’re ready to commit? This is your chance for that final conversation. 

6. Sign a contract and pay your deposit

You’ll seal the deal with a formal contract and deposit, which allows the contractor to begin acquiring the necessary materials ahead of your agreed-upon start date. We’ve made that process more convenient for you by offering secure, electronic deposits when you sign with a Sweeten contractor. 

If you’re ready to hire a contractor, check out Sweeten’s service locations to see if we can get you connected with our trusted contractors today. Our personalized contractor matching service is totally free!

Sample questions to ask at your site visits

  • How long have you been a general contractor?
  • How many projects have you managed simultaneously? How many do you plan to manage while working on my project? 
  • Are you familiar with the local building codes and regulations?
  • Who will be in charge of my project and who will be working on it?
  • How will you handle any unexpected challenges, delays, or changes during the project?
  • What is your policy for communication and updates during the project?
  • What potential challenges could you foresee with my project? 
  • How do you plan to protect my home during the course of my renovation? 
  • How does your payment schedule work?
  • What is your insurance coverage?
  • Do you provide a warranty for your work?
  • Do you have references from previous clients?

How does Sweeten connect me with the best general contractors for my remodeling project? 

Our purpose at Sweeten is to help homeowners transform their homes as seamlessly as possible — so you can stop living at home, and start thriving! And we’ve helped over 2,000 renovators do just that. Here are some of the ways we bring value to your renovation experience (for free!):

  • We only work with thoroughly vetted, trusted general contractors 
  • We carefully select the best contractors for your unique remodeling projects and connect you with them
  • You’ll get a set of competitive bids to ensure fair, market pricing for your project
  • You can take advantage of a bid-leveling call with someone from our team to help you through the toughest part of the decision-making process
  • Our team has extensive knowledge and experience in renovations, and we’re available to you for support from start to finish!

If you’re planning to start your own home renovation within the next 6 months, it’s time to post your project on Sweeten and start making your vision a reality!

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A Well-Loved Home Begins a New Chapter https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/entire-home-renovations/well-loved-home-begins-new-chapter/ https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/entire-home-renovations/well-loved-home-begins-new-chapter/#comments Thu, 30 Apr 2020 15:25:36 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=22181 The post A Well-Loved Home Begins a New Chapter appeared first on Sweeten.

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Removing walls while renovating brought light into one couple’s new kitchen

kitchen after removing walls while renovating

  • Homeowners: Erica and Joshua posted their project on Sweeten
  • Where: Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, New York
  • Primary renovation: Renovating a cramped kitchen to fit more than one person comfortably
  • Sweeten general contractor
  • Homeowner quote: The builders and carpenters of our design-build firm are true craftspeople. The care with which they handled each task was notable.
  • Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free..

Guest blog post by Sweeten homeowner Erica

It’s hard to believe a wall can have such a profound impact on how two people share space. Our kitchen, once barely big enough for one person, was transformed into what kitchens are meant to be: the heart of the home. Our 800-square-foot Clinton Hill apartment was a loved space, in every sense of the word. My then-fiancé, Joshua, moved in and we decided to renovate.

Even before Joshua joined me, I imagined what would happen if the wall between the living room and kitchen came down. Now that it was two of us, changes seemed necessary. Along with the wall, Joshua also dreamed of replacing the parquet floors with hardwood. (I much preferred parquet so those conversations often ended in agreeing to disagree.)

Before & During Pictures of Kitchen Remodel

Our apartment and all its quirks and beauties were familiar. We knew how we used the space, and which areas needed to become a better fit. We had a budget for the kitchen and vision. But who could we trust to help us move forward with our ideas? Just choosing the right paint color felt overwhelming, so finding the right designer was a challenge. 

Just choosing the right paint color felt overwhelming, so finding the right designer was a challenge.

I posted our project on Sweeten.com, and selected a firm with design/build services. The general contractor was familiar with the Clinton Hill Co-ops and the complexities that exist in these apartments, which were originally constructed in the early 1940s.

On that first warm fall evening, she sat in our living room and listened carefully as we described what we hoped our home would be. We knew we wanted to remove a wall, upgrade the contractor-grade cabinetry, replace the appliances, and install under-cabinet lighting. But we were unsure of the process and the things we could not see. After talking, she immediately popped up and put her superhero design tools to work—her x-ray vision which saw through walls, and her tape measure. 

Initial sketches removed the wall between the kitchen and the dining area completely, as well as part of the wall between the kitchen and the living room. We were seeking to strike a balance between Joshua’s partiality to completely open spaces and my desire to keep some visual privacy. Receptive to our decision to keep the entire wall between the living room and kitchen intact, the plan removed only the wall between the kitchen and the dining area.

Our contractor’s keen eye helped us ask so many more questions about the space. I never noticed that the sightlines of our parquet floors were uneven and misaligned. (Joshua was right. We needed to replace the floors.)

tile backsplash

I realized that the space would be transformed in ways I was not expecting the moment she began to speak of light from the kitchen window spilling into the back corner of the living room. With the wall down, of course, the kitchen window would be visible as you enter the apartment. The decision to move the refrigerator out of the original kitchen footprint into what was once a hallway closet provided more options on where the sink and dishwasher could be.

I knew that our Sweeten contractor had expertise in millwork. Our kitchen, filled with unexpected nooks and crannies, was a design dilemma that custom cabinetry could solve. I envisioned white cabinetry to brighten up the kitchen, and we trusted our contractor’s desire to include natural wood via open shelving and some cabinetry with a walnut finish. The shelving she created is the perfect platform for us to display our spices, cookbooks, vases, and the all-important pilon for grinding plantains.

The weekend before demolition day, our contractor came by to finalize things. “I’m so nervous,” I admitted.

As a designer, she not only considered ways to bring more storage and surface area into the kitchen, but also a new hue. One afternoon we perused our choices at their warehouse in Queens.

Every tile seemed to fall short—wrong tint, incorrect size, too dominating, etc. But then Joshua’s eye caught a simple hexagonal tile of soft turquoise blue. This 3D recycled glass tile complemented the cabinetry color, the wood finish, and it was the right size. The result is a beautiful canvas that pulls the white cabinetry and quartz countertops together. Last, but certainly not least, it serves as a surprising showcase for my favorite red cast iron Dutch oven.

white kitchen walnut built ins

Open shelving for spice storage

Making decisions was easy. Rather than ask us to look at every iteration of countertop or knob, our contractor presented us with a few options, and the design sensibility connected across the space. The nickel handles on the cabinet doors pick up the subtle specks of silver accents in the quartz countertops coordinating well with the steel appliances.  I only noticed it once the kitchen was complete.

We had to come up with secondary plans for overhead lighting since the ceiling was made of concrete. The floor lamp now illuminates our favorite round dining table. The gooseneck sconce creates the perfect corner for working on a laptop at our kitchen peninsula, which can now accommodate someone cooking at the same time. The peninsula also has generous storage on two sides—four very deep drawers and a small cabinet.

Now, when you walk into our apartment, three things jump out at you: the welcoming natural light that flows in from the windows, rich wood elements on the cabinetry and shelving, and the turquoise tile of the backsplash.

The builders and carpenters of our design-build firm are true craftspeople. The care with which they handled each task was notable. They produced perfectly mitered corners, laid the floor with precision, and cleaned up at the end of each day. We felt like we were in good hands the entire way through. I’d notice an imperfection, and before I could say anything, they had fixed it. Truly top-notch workmanship. They were so thoughtful about the space that it made our decision to stay in the apartment throughout the renovation easy. “Just think of it like camping,” Joshua said one night as we dined in our bedroom.

The weekend before demolition day, our contractor came by to finalize things. “I’m so nervous,” I admitted. “Don’t worry,” she warmly replied. “You’re gonna love it.”  Debris and concrete walls filled much of the living area after the first demolition day, but we felt the homeyness of the space. The light from the newly visible window greeted us as we entered in a way we never expected. I looked at Joshua and said, “I didn’t realize how much of me was in this place. Now we get to create this space together.” We couldn’t relish it more!

Thank you, Erica and Joshua, for sharing your renovation journey with us!

KITCHEN RESOURCES. Engineered White Oak 5” floor planks: Somerset Floors. Cabinets: custom. Open shelving: custom. Contemporary Metal Pull 8160 cabinet hardware: Richelieu. Jefferey Alexander Satin Nickel Sonoma Square cabinet knob, #431SN:Appliances Connection. Brooklyn CT 4403 Quartz countertops: CitiQuartz. Recycled glass tile backsplash: TileBar. 23” Single Basin Undermount sink:Appliances Connection. Pull-down spray faucet: Hansgrohe. 30” gas range:Appliances Connection. Refrigerator:Appliances Connection. 24” Bar-handle dishwasher:Appliances Connection. Morland wall sconce: Savoy House. George Kovacs fabric wall sconce: Lumens. Phoenix barstools, floor lamp, #271806: CB2.

If you’re looking to contribute sweat equity to your renovation, here’s what to DIY and what to leave to the pros.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration, and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

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A Small ‘60s Kitchen Gets Star Treatment https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/kitchen-renovations/small-60s-kitchen-gets-star-treatment/ https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/kitchen-renovations/small-60s-kitchen-gets-star-treatment/#comments Wed, 27 Sep 2017 16:01:32 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=26829 Original flooring sets the color tone, while hidden storage provide max capabilities Project: Adding storage and style to a haphazard kitchen in Manhattan’s Upper East Side Before: When Treanna embarked on the search for her new home, she knew that apartments within her budget would probably require a remodel of some kind. She set out to […]

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Original flooring sets the color tone, while hidden storage provide max capabilities

SWEETEN_Treanna_Kitchen-02-07

Project: Adding storage and style to a haphazard kitchen in Manhattan’s Upper East Side

Before: When Treanna embarked on the search for her new home, she knew that apartments within her budget would probably require a remodel of some kind. She set out to find one in which she would only need to redo one of the two big-ticket items—the kitchen or bath—but not both. When she saw the kitchen in her current apartment, located in a 1960s co-op building on the Upper East Side, she spotted a lot of underutilized space and a lot of potential. There was enough room for a full galley, while the current owners had only one wall of cabinets and appliances with a lone undersized fridge on the other side. All the appliances were rental-grade, and there was no dishwasher—a must for this enthusiastic home chef. The few cabinets that existed were mismatched, and the space flow was not good. As she closed on the apartment, Treanna reached out to Sweeten, a free service matching homeowners with vetted contractors, and selected her Sweeten contractor.

After: While almost everything in the old kitchen had to go, Treanna found charm in the existing checkered black-and-white flooring, and it became the basis for the new color palette. She envisioned a calm, serene space in white and gray—anything dark would make the galley space feel too confined. “Open, inviting, and warm,” were the operative terms for the updated kitchen design.

With the guidance of her Sweeten design-build contractor, Treanna chose white cabinets, a light-colored Caesarstone countertop with a bit of marbling, and a backsplash in clear and white tile (although the gray grout tinted the look of the clear tiles). Minimalist hardware in stainless steel finished the look. Working with just 42 square feet, Treanna and her contractor outfitted the space with ample storage by adding four custom pull-out racks in addition to numerous drawers. The stainless steel range and dishwasher were installed on one side, while the microwave and refrigerator went on the opposite wall. Although the remodel took much longer than expected due to delays with co-op approval, Treanna is loving her new space—especially the pull-outs and the handy Delta touch faucet.

Bonus: Instead of wasting the dead space behind the cabinet toe kicks, the Sweeten contractor added additional drawer space and an ingenious pull-out step stool on wheels. Treanna had trouble reaching the top shelves in the kitchen and this was a way to keep a step ladder out of sight but easily accessible.

Style finds: Cabinet hardware: Simon’s Hardware & Bath. Caesarstone countertops: Marbleworks. Spirited Calacatta Stone and Glass Mix Mosaic backsplash: Tiles Direct. Touch 2.0 Faucet: Delta. Range: Appliances Connection. Step ladder: Hailo.

SWEETEN_Treanna_Kitchen-Before-01SWEETEN_Treanna_Kitchen-Before-02kitchen remodel ManhattanSWEETEN_Treanna_Kitchen-10-11kitchen remodel Manhattankitchen remodel Manhattankitchen remodel Manhattan

Ursula’s kitchen remodel adds a high-gloss finish to a white and gray palette while a dresser-style island increases storage.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

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It’s All in the Details in a Prewar Home Renovation https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/custom-bookcases-prewar-home/ https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/custom-bookcases-prewar-home/#comments Thu, 17 Mar 2022 15:40:28 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=26863 The post It’s All in the Details in a Prewar Home Renovation appeared first on Sweeten.

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Gray kitchen cabinets and a new fireplace mantel bring elegance to a Fort Greene home

custom bookcases

  • Homeowners: Cat and Jordan posted their prewar co-op renovation on Sweeten
  • Where: Fort Greene, Brooklyn, New York
  • Primary renovation: Remodeling their living room and kitchen to fit a more modern aesthetic
  • Sweeten general contractor
  • Homeowner’s quote: “The contractor genuinely loves working with clients, explaining choices and limitations. He knew when to give us the ultimate stylistic decision and when to push back with his expert opinion.”
  • Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches residential renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering know-how, support, and up to $50,000 in renovation financial protection—for free.

Written in partnership with Sweeten homeowners Cat and Jordan

Making the space modern

Cat and Jordan closed on their 1,000-square-foot, co-op apartment in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. They loved the prewar apartment’s location and proximity to the park. But, they were put off by the interior’s worn and outdated appearance. The color scheme—yellowy-beige walls against the bright red brick of a non-functioning fireplace and tired cherry cabinets—was not to their taste.

custom bookcases

The walls had been repainted too many times to count. As a result, it had a “thick, uneven, mushroom-colored appearance.” The wiring, which lined around the baseboards, was nonfunctional. Layers of shiny yellow varnish obscured the parquet wood floors (which Cat was partial to, having grown up in a home with it).

The couple wanted to brighten up the space by stripping the walls and floors. Bookcases around the fireplace would add interest to the long span of wall. A new dark gray kitchen ticked the box of the “warm modern home with spare decorations” they wanted.

Finding the right renovation team

The main goal was to make their apartment “look as big, bright, and clean as possible.” They were uncertain about how to turn their vision into reality. They weren’t “design people,” Cat admitted, and “needed a lot of guidance.” Posting their project on Sweeten, they found a contractor to provide the direction they needed. The couple described the process: “The contractor genuinely loves working with clients, explaining choices and limitations. He knew when to give us the ultimate stylistic decision and when to push back with his expert opinion.”

custom cabinetscustom cabinets

Installing dark gray kitchen cabinetry

In the kitchen, they would create an elegant and functional design. Since the kitchen opens into the living room, it was important for the materials in both rooms to echo each other.

The dark gray kitchen cabinetry contrasted with white quartz countertops and a stainless steel backsplash. Instead of handles, drawers had carved-out pull tabs for a streamlined look. The utensil drawers were made of natural walnut. Cat said, “I never thought that the inside of a drawer could, or even should, be beautiful, but I appreciate seeing the woodwork every time I reach for a utensil.”

custom drawer

Adding a kitchen peninsula

There were some minor changes made as the demolition got underway. Originally, an island was planned for additional prep and storage space, but the demo revealed that the dividing wall couldn’t be knocked down. They scaled the island back to a kitchen peninsula with a smaller footprint.

“In the end,” they said, “the peninsula was perfect and very functional.” On the kitchen side, the peninsula held the kitchenware and cookware, along with a trash and recycling bin. On the dining room side, napkins, placemats, and cookbooks filled the cabinet space.

custom cabinetscustom cabinets

“Prepare yourself for the possibility that something unexpected can happen during a renovation, especially in an old building.”

Changing up format and flooring

Their Sweeten contractor suggested the modern and very useful reverse L-shaped bar top. It provided a “comfortable and practical surface for resting a coffee mug or working on a laptop.” The open design between the bar and peninsula created a seamless transition to the living space. The bar top was a natural spot for appetizers when entertaining, and “people seem to naturally congregate around it.”

Cat and Jordan were most excited about the kitchen floor tiles. Cat wanted an abstract, black-and-white pattern. With their contractor’s help, they decided on a medley of Moroccan cement tiles in black, white, and gray hues. As Jordan explained, “The more traditional patterns reflected the age of the apartment and the black casement windows, while the mix of different patterns added an informal feel.” The same tile configuration sits in front of the fireplace tying the two rooms together.

custom bookcases

The value of skim coating

In the living room, their contractor designed a new fireplace mantel to complement the new built-in bookshelves. The clean lines provided a focal point. The walls were also skim coated and repainted. Initially, Jordan did not see the value in spending the time and money on skim coating (a texturing technique to hide construction tape and other imperfections to give walls a smooth and plaster-like appearance). However, they were so glad they did it. “I can’t believe what a difference it made—the whole place looks lighter, brighter, and fresher.” The parquet floors were stripped and refinished in a matte coating, preserving their original wood tones.

custom bookcases

Living at home during a renovation

Cat and Jordan’s biggest challenge was living through the construction. It took longer than expected due to hold-ups with the cabinetry. They had to wash dishes in the bathroom and eat a lot of takeout. Wicket, their Norfolk Terrier, was curious about all the construction, so a baby gate was set up to keep her safe. “Wicket was pretty suspicious of the floor-sanding equipment, wood-cutting tools, and other supplies,” said Jordan. “Luckily, our contractors did a fantastic job consolidating the equipment in the construction zone and cleaning up at the end of each day, so we only had a few barking flip-outs.”

custom bookcases

Lastly, the couple has a bit of advice for future renovators. They say watch some home renovation shows to get design ideas. However, “prepare yourself for the possibility that something unexpected can happen during a renovation, especially in an old building.”

While no budget-blowing issues came up, they did learn to take construction surprises in stride. “Having watched so many renovation TV shows, we felt relieved that nothing major popped up and were less disturbed by minor changes in the plans.”

Thanks to Cat, Jordan, and Wicket for sharing their prewar home renovation story!

Resource materials

KITCHEN RESOURCES:

  • Franke stainless steel undermount sink and faucet: Appliances Connection
  • Samsung 24” Chef Collection refrigerator, 30″ gas range, and dishwasher: Appliances Connection
  • Miele pull-out hood: Appliances Connection
  • Cement floor tiles: Villa Lagoon Tile
  • Custom lacquered dark gray cabinets: Custom by contractor
  • Soft-closing hinges and drawer tracks: Blum
  • Caesarstone ¾” Frosty Carina countertops: Custom by contractor
  • Stainless steel 22-gauge backsplash: custom
  • LED lighting: Contrast
  • Undercounter Flexyled lighting: Richelieu

LIVING ROOM RESOURCES:

A note on appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 10,000 items in stock and ready to ship. In-stock items can be delivered to NY/NJ within 2 days.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post It’s All in the Details in a Prewar Home Renovation appeared first on Sweeten.

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A Film Editor Revitalizes Her Starter Apartment https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/entire-home-renovations/film-editor-revitalizes-her-starter-apartment/ https://sweeten.com/sweeten-renovations/entire-home-renovations/film-editor-revitalizes-her-starter-apartment/#comments Thu, 12 Jan 2017 19:12:36 +0000 https://blog-v2.sweeten.com/?p=20982 She decided to renovate instead of move With prices in her Fort Greene co-op building surging upward, film editor Mollie Goldstein faced a dilemma: she could cash out (but deal with the colossal hassle of moving) or remain in a building and neighborhood she loved (albeit in an outdated “starter” studio apartment). Some smart home equity […]

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She decided to renovate instead of move

With prices in her Fort Greene co-op building surging upward, film editor Mollie Goldstein faced a dilemma: she could cash out (but deal with the colossal hassle of moving) or remain in a building and neighborhood she loved (albeit in an outdated “starter” studio apartment). Some smart home equity math helped her see that the pros of her current place outweighed the cons, so she came to Sweeten to upgrade (inventively and colorfully!) rather than start again elsewhere.

blue kitchen

Guest post by Fort Greene homeowner Mollie Goldstein

About a year ago, I started noticing that prices for apartments in my Fort Greene co-op building had skyrocketed. I live in a studio, so the question of upgrading to a true one-bedroom was always on my mind. It had also been ten years since I bought my 500 square foot “starter apartment,” so I was starting to wonder if it might be time for a more “grown-up” dwelling. In short: Was now the time to cash out and buy something bigger elsewhere?

Upon consideration, though, I realized that 1) I love my building, 2) I love my neighborhood, and 3) my apartment is the exact right size for one person and one dog. The increasing market value, however, meant that I had equity I could borrow against, and so I decided to renovate the kitchen and bathroom and make myself a new apartment without having to uproot.

kitchen before renovationbathroom before renovation

That decision turned out to be the easy part. When it came to planning a renovation—or even finding someone to help me plan a renovation—I had no idea what I was doing and no clue how to get started. After some time on the Internet, I thought a design/build firm might make the most sense for me, since I had no confidence in my ability to either design a proper space or supervise a contractor. But when I talked to the reps for several Manhattan firms, they laughed at my budget and sent me packing. Google eventually led me to Sweeten, where I posted my project. The kind staff there double-checked my budget, but at least they didn’t laugh—and neither did the Sweeten general contractor I was eventually paired up with.

She was amazing, and I felt an instant rapport with her. I’d had no experience in construction, but I do collaborate for a living (I’m a film editor), and I immediately recognized that she was a gem. The design process was so much fun. Because I was renovating in order to stay put, I wanted to design spaces purely for myself. Both rooms had always been serviceable, but the hasty repairs made before I moved in ten years earlier were showing their age, and I knew there had to be better ways to take advantage of the space I had available (especially in the surprisingly large-for-NYC kitchen). It drove me crazy that the kitchen cabinets didn’t reach the ceiling (so much wasted space!) and I hated stacking my spices on top of the stove. I also had a random hole in my kitchen wall where a neighbor’s contractor had drilled through and then disappeared. The bathroom was grungy in its off-white color scheme and constantly sprouting various leaks and cracks. I also love pattern and color, and I knew I wanted to create a personalized kitchen and something other than a standard white bathroom.

kitchenkitchenkitchen desk niche

The kitchen design came together very quickly. I gave my contractor a few wallpaper swatches and a random list of priorities: I wanted a dishwasher, but it had to be less obtrusive than the current model; I needed a place for cookbooks; I was desperate for more storage; and could she please include a cute little spice drawer? Within a few days she sent me a rendering that was very similar to the final product. The Hygge & West wallpaper (which I’d had my eye on for a while), set the tone for our color scheme and she designed a clever built-in with a hidden-drawer dishwasher by Fisher & Paykel that I loved right away.

kitchen counterdishwasher drawer

The basic layout of the bathroom was pretty easy, too, but we struggled a little more with the design. I knew I wanted something special, but I didn’t exactly know what it was. I sent my contractor a list of tiles I liked, none of which were appropriate, but she looked at them all and distilled the essence of what I was looking for, sending back the chevron marble from TileBar that we eventually went with around the tub (with its hexagon cousin for the floor). And as it happened, one of those other rejected bathroom tiles ended up as the kitchen floor — when we were looking at all our samples together, I slid that Bestile Moderna sample over to the kitchen pile, and, while neither of us had seen it coming, we both loved the black & white pattern against the blue cabinetry. The floor has since become one of my absolute favorite things about the kitchen.

bathroombathroombathroom wallpaperbathroom shower wall

Thanks to my contactor and her team, construction went pretty smoothly (for me). I moved out for five weeks while they dealt with all the problems of a crumbling kitchen ceiling, hauling debris out through a co-op lobby, and having to send back tile that arrived scratched. I’m sure there were a hundred other stumbling blocks that I never heard about, and I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to work with trustworthy contractors whose standards were even higher than I expected.

Now that Maggie (my dog) and I have moved back in, I’m in love with my new space. Showering in my beautiful marble shower every morning is a treat, and I cook much more—and much more enjoyably—now that I have all the counter space I need. Both the kitchen and the bathroom are neater and less cluttered than ever before now that there is a place to put everything. I’m incredibly happy that I took the renovation plunge.

Kitchen selects >> cabinets: custom / cabinet knobs: Home Depot / counters: LG Viatera: Cirrus / sink: Appliances Connection / faucet: Hansgrohe / fridge: Appliances Connection / range: Appliances Connection / dishwasher: Fisher & Paykel / microwave: Appliances Connection / floor tile: TileBar: Bestile Modena Blanco Nero porcelain tile / wallpaper: Hygge & West: Daydream (Indigo)

Bathroom selects >> floors: TileBar: Milan Gray Hexagon Marble tile / vanity sink, #JS-50324-PL-PRTSET1: Virtu / faucet, #552LF-MPU: Delta / tub: Appliances Connection: Archer / toilet: Appliances Connection: Wellworth / wall tile: TileBar: Milan Gray Chevron Marble tile / white wall tile: TileBar: ceramic tile / wallpaper: Walnut Wallpaper: Baby Elephant Walk

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post A Film Editor Revitalizes Her Starter Apartment appeared first on Sweeten.

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