Building Your Dream
Aesthetically pleasing does not always mean functional. By Patty Hutchens.
We have all done it. We pick up a magazine, see a photo of a beautiful kitchen or bathroom and think, “I would love to do this to my home!” We clip out the photo and tuck it away for when we finally have enough money saved to transform our home into our dream.
Whether it’s a remodel or new construction, we all have a vision of how we would like our home to be. But what happens when what you see in a magazine or online turns out to be aesthetically pleasing but not conducive to your lifestyle? Ask any builder and they will tell you this happens all too often. But the best part is, it does not have to. And that’s where your contractor can be of assistance.
According to Gig Harbor contractor Doug Clark, it’s a matter of blending one’s needs with one’s dreams. “It’s easy to throw money away building or remodeling,” said Clark. “But why not do it for less and have it meet your needs.”
When searching for a contractor, choose one who not only answers your questions but asks you a lot of questions as well. By interviewing you, they can help you design a new home or help you remodel your own home specific to your needs. Clark said there are many things to consider. Does the client have children? If so, what are their ages? Does the client like to entertain? Do they want to incorporate the indoor entertainment area with an outdoor entertainment area? What type of food do you like to prepare? All these things can make a significant impact on the clients’ decisions.
“We don’t have to do things today like we did them 50 years ago,” said Clark who cites an example of the importance of stovetop cooking as it relates to clients. Today there are zoneless induction cooktops where the heat is only activated when the pan touches the cooking surface. It helps protect not only children from serious injuries but also the elderly population.
Trusting your contractor and being able to fully communicate your issues as they relate to your lifestyle is vital to a successful building or remodeling project.
Going forward there are things to consider when evaluating your next remodel or new construction. Among them are whether the design you choose is one you will be happy with in years to come. Is it a trend? Will it be functional as your family grows? Also do not minimize the importance of lighting. It can make a vast difference in the feel of your home. Good lighting will maximize your surroundings.
So as you pick up those magazines, clip out photos, and surf the internet, take the time to find a contractor who will not just work for you but will work with you. We have them right here in Gig Harbor and they are anxious to help you make the most of your living space.
