Looking for a renovation project as an investment as well as a dwelling space?

It is extremely difficult to recoup the full cost of your renovation when you go to sell, no matter how fantastic the result is.

There are a few things you can do however to increase the value of your renovation.
1. Score a great deal in the first place. This is challenging (but not impossible) now as prices are rising back to pre-boom values. Be ready to make an offer with your financing already in place. Better yet, cash is king.

2. Location, location, location. Find an up and coming neighborhood (just make sure you can handle living there while the area is in transition) or choose the crummiest house in the best neighborhood. You'll never go wrong buying in a popular neighborhood (or on the water).

3. Add square footage. Choose a project where you have the flexibility to add space to what is there. An extra bathroom, bedroom or living space will always add value to a home.

Home values are calculated based on a price per square foot within the neighborhood. More square footage equals more value. This is the single most important thing you can do to increase the value of your home.

Dream Home

So you have found your dream home (or perhaps you have been living in it for years and years) but it is lost in a decade you do not want to remember.

Do not despair. Gather your photos and make an appointment to come talk to Cheryl, Keri, and Jackie about what can be done to update your space. Sometimes miracles can be achieved simply by changing a paint color or rearranging your space plan.

1930's Home Restoration & Design - Project update #2

So here is the project: A main house built in 1936 and a separate "servants' quarters" built in 1933.

Fully renovated in 1974 and meticulously maintained for 40 years with little or no change. Harvest gold cabinetry, Partridge Family linoleum, and Laura Ashley wallpaper intact.

Because there are two houses on the property, it is grandfathered into the neighborhood as a duplex. The main house has been subdivided (presumably illegally, taking advantage of the "duplex" designation) into two apartments.

A sheet of 1/8" ply has been nailed over the door frame separating the second bedroom from the rest of the house. On that side, there is a separate entrance from the side porch, a second kitchen and a bathroom so tiny that the vanity is hinged to flip down for access to the toilet. The former owner of the house was a pilot so we assume this is homage to the MD-80 he must have flown. Horrifying.

1930's Home Restoration & Design - Update #1 Purchasing an eighty year old home!

I love old houses. I love the wavy images beyond panes of old cold-flow glass. I love squeaky wood floors and clever built-ins. I love the thought that someone occupied this same space decades before. At least that is what I am telling myself as we sign the papers to go into contract on a nearly eighty year-old house. So begins our adventure restoring and renovating this space for our family. 

1930's Home Restoration & Design Project

One of the responsibilities of a small business is to reach out to the community. One of the ways CG Interior Design has chosen to do this is by educating our clients and web followers about all things design. The entries you will be reading will feature a number of different design and construction topics as well as a real-time day-to-day, project-by-project storyline (along with extensive photos) of how a 1933/1936 home is being designed, renovated and expanded. The following is a sampling of a few topics that you will be reading about:

Understanding the design aesthetic and how to learn (or sharpen) your own design skills.

Project planning: What it takes to put together a plan from concept to creation. How to work with a designer, architect and contractor whether you do the work yourself or not.

Vintage gold: Furnishing your space with character. How to thoughtfully select (and edit) period pieces so your home does not end up looking like a hurricane hit the antique mall.

Oops: Tips, secrets and lessons learned from our mishaps plus ideas to streamline your project and avoid a trip to the emergency room.

HGTV and managing the "Redbull" effect of home improvement TV. Watching these shows gives you plenty of good ideas and inspiration; just be prepared for the energy crash when your project is not complete in seven days. Quality versus speed and the "Monet" effect will be discussed.

36th Annual Siesta Fiesta!

Don't miss the Siesta Fiesta Art Festival This Saturday and Sunday!

Things Are Heating Up!

The beginning of spring signals longer days and warmer weather coming our way. You'll want to soften harsh sunlight and repel the sun’s heat with Hunter Douglas Designer Screen Shades, the right window treatment can make a big difference!!! Call or email us to get some for your home.

A peaceful place to relax

Some shade without blocking your beautiful view

A comfortable work space