A “Simple” Addition?

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design, Architectural Planning, Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations
Many of my clients WISH that a simple add on could be just that.  But the truth is even a small addition requires precision planning.  Take a peek at this video for some insight. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFcKUbjkWsI[/youtube] Stay Inspired!       I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Function + Quality = Timeless Design

Posted on Categories Architectural Planning, Development, Lori Gilder, Renovations
Creating a functional, inviting and comfortable living experience is easily achieved when decisions are made based on function and quality.  Implementing sensible design principles with a focus on comfort and practicality will win out every time. My best advice…invest in what you really love,  purchase quality pieces and paint your canvas over time. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEjy9EfjylY[/youtube] Stay Inspired!       I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Consider New Dual Pane Windows

Posted on Categories Architectural Planning, Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations
When it comes to your home renovation, addition or remodel, selecting the type and style of windows will be one of the most important architectural details you’ll choose.  Take the time and choose your windows wisely to ensure they work with your home’s architectural style. Here in California according to the building energy efficiency code (or Title 24) the use of dual pane windows are typically required  not just for new construction but renovations and additions alike. In this video I share a few simple reasons why you should invest in dual pane windows.  Take a look! [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blHs6d9dNJ4[/youtube] Stay Inspired!       I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

A Master Bath Renovation – The Framing Stage

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design, Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations
The rough framing stage is where we begin to see the shape of the new space forming.  Witnessing the two-dimensional floor plan come to life in three dimensions helps you better visualize the layout of the space, how the traffic flows and the volume it occupies. This is also the time to scrutinize those framing details, rough-in plumbing and electrical layouts – to ensure everything is exactly where you expect them to be.  It is more cost effective to make changes now, rather than later after all walls are closed over.

Here is an ideal example: Due to an onsite shear wall issue, the newly framed windows’ rough openings decreased in size where the spaces between each window increased.  Being disappointed and extremely underwhelmed we immediately regrouped with the contractor on site, weighed our options and within 30 minutes resolved the issue by extending the header, re-spaced the existing rough openings and added one more window into the mix. I call this an “Onsite Gift”. (Check in next week to see these framing changes)

New concrete was poured – enlarging the width of the shower (from 3’-0”) to 3’-6” wide x 7’-0” long with a 10” deep step down into the shower from each side.  This new width was a critical measurement in allowing for a massage table to fit within this space.

Another view from “his” side – the enlarged shower stall, window wall and vanity area.

When it comes time for your own home renovation project, make sure all trades follow your documented floor plans or else they will “take liberties” in making decisions for you.  In this case these pony walls, which divide the WC from the vanities, were initially framed 8” too high. (in this photo)  This is why site meetings are imperative to ensure every “documented” design detail is executed according to plan.

The wall separating the shower from the “his and her” vanities required just enough height on each side to allow for the medicine cabinets, plumbing and suspended mirrors.  Fortunately we ended up with an interesting detail within the center of the wall for an open shelf and more natural light to flood through the vanity space.  Another “Onsite Gift”.   To Be Continued… Stay Inspired!       I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.  

The Allure Of Master Bath Retreats

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design, Architectural Planning, Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations
We all need a place to decompress and escape from the stresses of the day.  So why not pamper yourself in a luxurious Master Bath Retreat.  Whether your bathroom is extremely spacious or charmingly quaint, adding a little of that hotel luxury could be exactly what the Doctor ordered.    In this video I explain the trend in bathrooms right now. Have you been seeing this as well? [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KveegF3M4Q[/youtube] Stay Inspired!       I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

My Video Business Card

Posted on Categories Lori Gilder2 Comments on My Video Business Card
Here is my video business card to reach out to you design savvy homeowners – where you can catch a brief glimpse of some of my favorite residential interior design projects – A video portfolio if you will. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihj_Qz3k5sQ[/youtube] For a more extensive look at my residential portfolio please visit my website www.LoriGilder.com. I also encourage you to sign up for my FREE report “How to Avoid the 15 Most Common Decorating Mistakes” and as a special thanks you’ll also receive a complimentary subscription to my DESIGN LINE newsletter, full of great design inspiration, insider tips and special offers before anyone else. So please click on the video above and let me know what you think. Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2009 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc

Designing An Open Floor Plan

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design, Architectural Planning, Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations
A popular home renovation trend is to re-purpose and  re-configure traditional layouts into more open spaces.  Removing interior walls not only improves the flow to a home, it also creates an open and flexible floor plan, which is more casual, comfortable and versatile for families who love to entertain.   But before you start the process, let me share some advice. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Av_-vUBIALk[/youtube] Stay Inspired!       I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Master Bath Renovation – Demolition Week 1

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design, Architectural Planning, Lori Gilder, Renovations
I love, love, love the demolition phase of a project.  This is chaos at its best. I love the rubble, the ear-piercing noise and the bustle of the demo crew working feverishly to tear down the old to make space for the new.   By the way, if you have an opportunity – join in on the fun and grab a hammer and crowbar – and start swinging.  It feels great! This is also the time when we discover the surprises lurking behind the walls.  In this case we uncovered water damage and mold – not too bad when you’re gutting a space. No matter how large or small the renovation project everything instantly looks better.  With the walls, ceilings and floors gone, it provides us with a glimpse into the true potential of a space – a clean slate if you will. But what I love most, is that after all the time spent meeting, planning, designing and sourcing, my client’s master bath retreat is about to become her reality. It’s an exciting time.

View toward the old vanity

Gutting the existing master bath down to the studs will give us the layout, look and function my client is after.  Looking toward the exterior wall you catch a glimpse of the extremely narrow shower, the dated glass block wall and the awkward window placement.

 

Demolishing the walls between the “his and her” sides not only visually enlarges the space, it also allows for more natural light to filter through.  The new and improved layout will help make this dark, dated, dingy and confined master bath a thing of the past. To Be Continued… Stay Inspired!         I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.    

My New Favorite Thing!

Posted on Categories Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations6 Comments on My New Favorite Thing!
I cannot wait to tell you about my new favorite thing! Watch this video and let me know what you think! [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KChKNJ9Aqhk[/youtube] Stay Inspired!       I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Hire Your Interior Designer First

Posted on Categories Architectural Planning, Lori Gilder, Remodeling, Renovations
Most potential clients do not realize that it benefits your home renovation project to hire the interior designer well before a contractor is brought on to the job.  As a designer it is my responsibility to ensure the contractor hired is the best fit for the calibre and scope of your project.  Consider us your advocate. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGVxV8cbnUQ&noredirect=1[/youtube]   Stay Inspired!       I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.