Category: Ask a Pro

Insights from Designer Shannon Tannehill

Happy 2024! With a new year, comes new color trends. Design professionals look forward to the inspiration released annually from our favorite paint companies. Some of my favorites to follow are Pantone, Benjamin Moore, and Sherwin Williams. After reviewing their “2024 Color of Year” materials I noticed a very soft and nature-inspired palette.

Read on to join me, Shannon Tannehill, UDCP, Design Consultant at The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, Ohio for a review of the fresh paint tones for 2024.

Interior Color Trends

All these colors remind me of ones seen in the evening sky that range from dusk to night starting with Sherwin Williams, Upward (SW6239).

This almost pastel color blue reminds me of the sky on a summer afternoon before the sun begins to set. Soft shades are great for a bedroom, powder room, or finished basement. The coastal feel brings a sense of serenity and ocean calm while the creamy undertones of Upward are neutral enough to pair with other colors. I like these complimentary colors, also from Sherwin Williams, Drift of Mist (SW9166), Gale Force (SW7605), Sea Salt (SW6204), and Natural Linen (SW9109) to create an ocean oasis.

Upward by Sherwin Williams

As the sun begins its descent, the next color is Blue Nova (825) from Benjamin Moore. It’s a soft, dusk sky feeling with its lavender and periwinkle undertones. It is a great accent in a primary bath or bedroom. Or paint all the walls for a delicate moody feel. But don’t just limit paint to the walls! Consider a statement furniture piece with gold or chrome hardware or a front door for a pop color anywhere in your home. Try pairing with these complimentary colors from Benjamin Moore, Topaz (070), Regent Green (2136-20), and White Dove (OC-17).

Blue Nova by Benjamin Moore

You know that time when the clouds begin to change color as the sun starts to get closer to the horizon? This next color could be pulled from this beautiful sight only found in nature. Pantone’s Peach Fuzz (13-1023) has creamy oranges with hints of pink. This is a lovely color that is reminiscent of that perfect sunset.

If you are a little timid and do not want to commit to an entire space being “peachy” add accents with pillows, rugs, and drapes for a feminine touch to introduce a not so common color. This would go great with floral wallpaper, wood tones as well as with the other colors of the year mentioned above. Other Pantone hues that pair nicely with Peach Fuzz are Honey Peach (13-1015), Pristine (11-0606), Marsala (18-1438), and Almondine (16-1415).

Peach Fuzz from Pantone

Once the sun has fully set, the night sky begins to creep over. Not quite black or blue but a dark grey with subtle hints of greens and browns without being too dreary. Like Urbane Bronze (SW7048) and Iron Ore (SW7069) from Sherwin Williams. I can see using this in a small space to give it warmth and dimension. Create a contrast with light almost white tones. Pair with a patterned floor or artwork to keep your eye moving through the space.

Exterior Color Trends

New color trends of using dark colors on exteriors have been gaining popularity in Columbus, Ohio. They are great for trim, garage and front doors, or even the whole house with wood accents. For example, check out this gorgeous Mid-Century Modern whole house remodel and the traditional porch addition projects we built in Upper Arlington!

Exterior Whole House Remodel Project Upper Arlington Ohio
Siding James Hardie Board & Batton color Grays Harbor SW 6236 & Pella Lifestyle Series Windows Black

Front Porch Addition Upper Arlington Ohio
Exterior main color Gauntlet Grey SW 7019 – trim color Tricorn Black SW 6258 – shutters Sommelier SW 7595

Prefer a deep green? Check out Mountain Olive from Behr Ultra for a pop of color on your front door. Classic neutral exterior colors like Chic Taupe or Weatherwood White compliment a green door nicely.

I hope you can find some inspiration for inside and outside of your home with these selections from the 2024 colors of the year. Pro tip ~ Keep in mind to go with what YOU like. These are some fun guidelines for what has been forecasted as emerging favorites for years to come.

Take a chance on something you would have never thought of with my suggestions. After all, if you decide you don’t like it, painting is an easy change. And let’s face it, we have all had to paint over the red wall in our dining room at one point. Happy Designing!

Our Remodel-Design-Build Team is ready to collaborate with you on your next project. Get started today by contacting our Client Relations Coordinator! Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website.

January 8, 2024
How Do I Know it is Time to Remodel My Bathroom?
The bathroom is likely the most used room in your home. It’s where you and your family start the day and end your day. It’s also a place to relax, rejuvenate, and maybe hide from the kids. If your bathroom has seen better days, is stuck in a time warp, or the flow & function is not quite working for you, then it’s probably also the space you can’t wait to leave. Our Remodel-Design-Build Team has seen everything and knows when it is time to remodel. But do you?

5 Signs That You Need a Bathroom Remodel
1. Damaged, outdated, or lacks functionality. Are your fixtures and finishes more than 15 years old? Have they passed their prime in style and finish? Outdated and tired fixtures can make your bathroom feel less stylish, and less functional. Damaged fixtures, sink stoppers that don’t stop water, leaking or dripping water, low vanities, outdated toilets, cracked grout, damaged tiles, or mold or mildew growth, are all signs that something needs to change.
2. Inadequate storage. Clutter and disorganization in your bathroom is a notable reason to remodel. If there is no place to store all your bathroom necessities then it’s probably difficult to find what you need and keep the space organized. Customizable storage is key!
3. An inefficient floorplan. A poorly functioning bathroom layout makes your daily routine difficult. If multiple people are using it at the same time and there is only one sink, a small shower, or not enough room to even turn around, it causes frustration and possibly being late for work or school.
4. Safety concerns. If things are wrong, like cracked flooring, non-GFCI outlets, a slippery bathtub, or a large step to get in the shower, it is time to address these safety issues. A bathroom remodel can make your bathroom safer for everyone who uses it. Our Development Team uses Universal Design or Age-in-Place design principles to increase the safety and comfort of everyone using the space, regardless of age, size, or ability.
5. Changing family needs. Your hall full bath might have worked when you didn’t have kids or they were little, but as the family grows, you all need more functional space. Or your primary bath would function better with Age-in-Place updates like grab bars, non-slip floors, higher toilets, and zero-entry showers.
Benefits of a Bathroom Remodel

Get inspired by visiting our Bathrooms Portfolio!

Energy efficiency: Upgrading your bathroom with new fixtures allows you to get the latest and greatest new products available to utilize energy efficiency. If your remodel is a total gut you can start from scratch by adding in more insulation and new mechanicals like pipes and electric. New lighting with LED bulbs, water-saving toilets, and showerheads are just a few of the options. It’s time to eliminate water-hogging fixtures that aren’t efficient and lead to higher water bills!

Value: Not only will you gain a well-designed, functional, and beautiful bathroom, but in most cases, a bathroom remodel will increase the value of a home. You may not be selling anytime soon, but the value will be there if you do need to sell sooner than planned.

Functionality: We can’t stress this enough—we will improve the functionality of your bathroom. A larger shower or double sinks make it easier for more than one person to get ready in the morning. Creating storage, adding a freestanding bathtub, or creating a spa-like appeal will make your bathroom a more enjoyable and efficient space. A well-designed bathroom reduces stress!

Ahh, the aesthetic: Whatever your design thoughts are, we will collaborate with you to design and build them. A remodeled bathroom should produce a “wow” moment every time you or your guests enter it.

It’s not just about aesthetics (ok, it is about creating a beautiful, relaxing, contemporary change to your home), but also integrating smart technology, improving energy efficiency and functionality, and adapting to your family’s needs. Our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus Ohio, will guide you through every step of the process and help you make the best design decisions, whether your bathroom is small or large, or you have multiple bathrooms to remodel.

Ready to get started? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today by visiting our website or give us a call at 614.459.4000!

Check out these two bathrooms we remodeled for a client in Hilliard, Ohio.
December 16, 2023
How to Save Money on Your Kitchen Remodel
– Without Sacrificing Quality

At The Cleary Company in Columbus, OH, our Remodel-Design-Build Team understands that remodeling your kitchen can be a significant investment. But that doesn’t mean that you must break the bank to achieve a beautiful and functional kitchen. With some thoughtful planning, smart choices, a clear budget, and open conversations, you can save money without compromising quality.

How hiring the right remodeling company and following these savvy tips, can help your kitchen remodeling budget.
1. Begin with a clear plan.
  - Know what you want to achieve by outlining your remodeling goals.
  - Make informed decisions about materials, finishes and labor costs.
  - Create your plan with an experienced remodeler with clarity on design decisions.
  - Keeping the existing layout means not relocating mechanicals like plumbing or electrical.
2. Set a realistic budget.
  - Creating a budget keeps everyone aware of what can be spent for each aspect of the remodel.
  - Avoid change orders as they can cause the project to exceed the budget.
  - Prioritize the essential elements and know where you are willing to be more flexible.
  - Allocate a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. It’s rare for a remodeling project to not have an unexpected expense.
  - Stick to the budget. Adding or changing design or selection decisions after the contract is signed will almost always lead to upcharges.
3. Choose selections wisely.
  - Durable, high-quality materials, such as Kohler, that last and are easier to care for. They might cost more upfront but won’t have to be replaced quickly.
  - Not all fixtures and finishes need to be high-end for an upscale look. Decide what’s most important to you to splurge and save on those items that are less important.
  - Be flexible and willing to compromise with your design. Our Team’s years of experience can be invaluable here!
4. Reuse, repaint, and refurbish where you can.
  - Sometimes your cabinets, appliances, hardware or lighting can be saved and used in the new design plan.
At The Cleary Company, we believe that achieving a budget-friendly kitchen remodel without compromising quality is absolutely achievable. Following these tips with our Remodel-Design-Build Team can transform your kitchen while being mindful of your budget.

Get inspired by visiting our Kitchens Portfolio! Ready to remodel your kitchen? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today. Call 614-459-400 or Visit the contact page on our website to schedule a phone call.
December 11, 2023
Checklist for Home Emergencies
Home emergencies are not something we think about every day. No one wants to deal with a home maintenance disaster, but do you know what to do when a pipe bursts or sewage backs up in your home? Every homeowner should know a few basics to maintain and protect their biggest investment. The purpose of the following checklist is to help you take steps to minimize a home emergency and assess any damage.

The single most important thing to remember is to put safety first and second is to act fast! After the issue is under control you may also want to document any damage and contact your insurance agent.

How to deal with the most common water-related home emergencies:

Burst pipe or major water leak:
- Stop the water flow by turning off the main water valve (usually in your basement or utility room).
- Next, turn on the faucet in the lowest level of the home to rid pipes of all water.
- Don’t delay cleanup! The longer things stay wet the more likely for permanent damage – remove water & dry out.
- If a toilet is leaking use its turn-off valve first & if it won’t close then shut off the main water valve.
- If it’s a hot water leak try turning off the valve on the water heater.
Flooded basement:
- Keep dry until you turn off electrical power – put on boots before wading through water.
- Turn off the main power to the breaker box – if unreachable call the utility company to cut power to the home.
- Take caution in flood waters which may contain toxins from stored belongings.
- Don’t delay cleanup! The longer things stay wet the more likely for permanent damage – remove water & dry out.
- If flood damage isn’t covered by your homeowner’s insurance DON’T report it – it may still go on record as a claim.
Sewage backup:
- Homes with basements and in low-lying areas are most vulnerable.
- Unblocking any visibly blocked individual drains is a good start.
- In the basement floor drain & laundry tub, place a screw or plug.
- Block the main line with test plug – insert an inflatable test plug & inflate with a bicycle pump.
- Shut off the main water supply.
- Call a plumber to help clear lines and determine if the city lines are an issue. NOTE: The Cleary Company can help with a referral!
Leaking roof:
- Act fast to minimize water damage but wait until after a storm to climb on a roof. Wet roofs are slippery!
- Quick fix – bandage large areas with a plastic tarp, screw plywood over the hole & secure over the roof ridge with 2x4s or lath nailed to the roof.
- Small holes can be patched with flashing or extra shingles or caulk.
- Call a roofing professional for an inspection. NOTE: The Cleary Company can help with a referral!
How to deal with the most common nature-related home emergencies:

Electrical storm:
- Unplug sensitive electronics for protection from power surges.
- If your home is hit by lighting don’t wait for flames, call 911 to dispatch the fire department ASAP because fires can hide in the walls.
- Protect yourself from lightning by avoiding contact with electrical appliances, and landline phones.
- Do not shower or bathe.
Power outage:
- Always keep a flashlight handy and loaded with good batteries.
- Prepare for surges – unplug all electronics & small appliances, major appliances can be turned off at the breaker box, turn the thermostat heat down (or cooling up) and leave on one light so you know when power is restored. And when power returns DO NOT turn everything on at once.
- Be aware if lights are noticeably dimmer or brighter after power returns, turn off the main supply at the breaker box & call the electric utility.
Tornado or high winds:
- TAKE COVER!
- Move to a protected interior room on the lowest floor of the house as far as possible from exterior walls & windows.
- Use pillows, cushions & blankets to protect yourself from flying debris.
- Ignore the myths – DO NOT open windows AND the southwest corner is not always the safest place to take cover.
- After the storm passes do an exterior review of the home to check for damages.
Wild animal invasion:
- Raccoons and squirrels can do a lot of damage quickly.
- If found inside the home – isolate the varmint in a room, open the window and exterior doors and then leave the room. Most will find their way out on their own.
- Outside the home – if they are a nuisance or creating conflict try to control & deter first, not difficult but requires persistence.
- DO NOT CHASE! OR set your dog or cat after them – these two options can result in smelly messes and/or a trip to the vet.
- Set a trap. However, per Ohio DNR regulations, it is unlawful to relocate off your property, they must be euthanized.
- Visit Ohio Department of Natural Resources website for tips & strategies on nuisance wildlife.
- Call a professional if needed. NOTE: The Cleary Company can help with a referral!
How to deal with dangerous home emergencies:

Carbon monoxide alert:
- CO poisoning is leading cause of accidental death in US!
- If an alarm sounds and anyone is experiencing flu like symptoms, get everyone outside fast, then call 911 to dispatch the fire department.
- Never ignore an alarm! Open doors & windows, and turn off all sources of CO, like gas appliances, furnace, water heater, kerosene heater and small engines or vehicles.
- Contact the gas utility company to inspect your gas lines
Kitchen fire:
- A small kitchen extinguisher kept under the sink is highly recommended.
- For a small countertop appliance – unplug and pour baking soda onto fire.
- On a stovetop – turn off burner & smother flames with a lid or baking soda.
- NEVER use water on a grease fire.
- For an oven – do not open the door, leave closed and turn off the heat.
- Keep in mind fires that seem to be out can reignite – keep an eye on the area of the fire for several minutes after the fire appears to be out.
- AND if the fire spreads – get everyone out & call 911 immediately!
Dead furnace:
- Check airflow? Preventative maintenance is key – check furnace filter monthly and change as needed when clogged.
- Power on? Check the circuit breaker, even a gas furnace needs power for the thermostat, fan motor and valves.
- Gas valve on? The handle should be parallel to gas pipe.
- Exterior exhaust pipe clear? Sometimes heavy snow can cover up exhaust vent to the outside.
- Does thermostat need to be reset? Turn it down, then turn it back up.
- Still not working call an HVAC professional NOTE: The Cleary Company can help with a referral!
Check out familyhandyman.com for a list of more home emergencies and how to deal with them!
November 25, 2023
Open Concept Living: Airy & Spacious Interior Layouts
Open-concept floor plans provide flexibility, great sight lines, and ease of movement. When our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, OH meets with clients, they often desire more open spaces in their homes. This is especially true for those who have older homes with walls and hallways that separate their kitchen, dining and living rooms. Most busy families find these older floorplans no longer work for their modern lifestyle.

The enduring appeal of open-concept living is something to consider incorporating into your home remodel. But how can you create an open-concept living design that works for you? Luckily, our experienced designers understand space planning and know how to create floorplans that are defined, airy, stylish, and spacious.

Plan Your Space
- Create a list, with the needs of your family and lifestyle in mind, of activities to accommodate for in the main living areas.
- Your kitchen will already be somewhat defined but think about areas within the kitchen that need some additional planning such as baking supply storage, beverage or snack center, pantry, etc.
- Thinking out all your spaces will help you visualize how you’ll utilize them.
Define Areas with Furniture
- An L-shaped sectional or chairs can separate the living and dining areas and signal where an area begins or ends.
- Rugs create natural dividers without affecting the line of sight between spaces. Make sure rugs are the right size to fit your furniture and outline a room.
- As families change and evolve, furniture layouts can transform. Choose furniture that doesn’t overwhelm the space or impede traffic flow.
- Create cozy reading or conversation nooks with the placement of a couple of chairs in an unused corner.
Whole House Remodel Bexley, Ohio

Addition & Whole House Remodel Upper Arlington, Ohio

Don’t Forget about Storage
- One of the best ways to maximize storage in an open floor plan is to use vertical space. Floor-to-ceiling storage cabinets and a large pantry are important design elements and keep stuff stowed.
- Storage on both sides of a kitchen island ensures everything has a place.
- Wall-mounted racks, bookshelf dividers, and open shelves can help define spaces and keep provide additional storage.
- Choose furniture that serves dual purposes of seating and storage: Ottomans, benches and club chairs with hidden spaces for keeping items close but out of sight.
Other Elements to Consider
- Natural lighting is a benefit of open-concept living spaces because fewer barriers or walls typically create brighter interiors. Larger windows, skylights, and patio doors all bring in the light.
- If there are times when privacy may be needed sliding doors (pocket or barn style), room dividers or even curtains can be used to close off areas.
- Entertaining family and friends in large gatherings where everyone can freely move and interact with the hosts in one big space.
An open-concept home creates a relaxing, inviting feel to a home. Its flexibility, functionality, and appeal will keep you happy with it for years to come. Its’ ability to maximize natural light, create a sense of space, and allow for easy interaction with friends and family makes it a timeless choice for homeowners.

Our Remodel-Design-Build Team is here to help you plan the best use of space for your home remodeling project. We’d love to collaborate with you! Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today to discuss your remodeling plans. Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website.
November 7, 2023
Creative Ways to Spruce Up Your Home for Fall
As the air turns crisp and leaves change color, your weekends fill with trips to apple orchards and pumpkin patches. Yes, fall has fully arrived in Columbus, OH! It’s time to cozy up your home for the upcoming chilly seasons. Revel in the beauty of this time of year by infusing style, comfort, and warmth into your home. Our Designers are all over these great ideas and you’ll probably see a few of them in our office here at The Cleary Company.

Hopefully, some of these creative ideas will inspire you!

“Welcome Home” Entryways
- Fill your front entryway with fall décor for the ultimate curb appeal. Pumpkins, autumnal wreaths, mums, seasonal doormats, all create that pumpkin spice feel.
- Soft, warm-toned outdoor accent lights create a welcoming glow as nighttime arrives earlier in the day. Now is the time to install solar lighting on your front walkway to create a welcoming ambiance.
- As fall transitions to winter, simply swap out with winter wreaths, holiday décor, a blanket on the chair on your porch, and winter greenery.
Decorate Tables — Set a Place for Guests
- Is your formal dining room seldom used these days? Keep these spaces alive by creating seasonal scenes.
- Use Autumn and winter or holiday placemats, captivating centerpieces, and themed dishes to set the mood for the seasons.
- Want to keep it simple? Seasonal color schemes might be all you need if you want to create an easy, but stylish change to the table.
Cozy Up the Living Spaces
- Nothing says fall like soft, fluffy blankets and pillows on a couch or chair. It just makes you want to snuggle up and read a book, watch TV, or just watch the fire.
- This might be the time to upgrade your fireplace. A new, updated mantel, interesting tiles, or fresh paint will make a big difference. And while you are at it, rearrange the furniture or add some stools and chairs to take advantage of the warmth from the fireplace.
- If your living spaces are wood or tile floors, this is the time to add rugs (even layer them) in these rooms. Adding extra warmth and visual interest will beat the worst of the dreary, cold, days.
- Extra lighting, using floor or table lamps, can add a bit of brightness to a darker area.
- Change out your summer sheers for thicker or heavier drapes. This adds a touch of elegance and keeps out any drafts.
Family Room Addition

Comfy Bedrooms
- Damp Ohio falls can be cold! Swap out your regular bedding for soft, warm flannel sheets and layer with an extra blanket.
- As days get shorter and the nights get darker earlier, stringing fairy lights in your bedrooms is welcome ambient glow, is festive and adds a magical touch to any kid’s room.
Bathroom Vibes
- Scented candles create a calm and soothing feel to a bathroom. And the options are endless for this time of year. Pumpkin spice, anyone?
- Seasonal-colored plush towels are easy ways to change up and create a cozy oasis.
- Install a towel warmer to ward off the early morning chills.
- If you’re remodeling your bathroom, consider radiant heated floors. You’ll never have another chilly morning in the bathroom.
Outdoor Living
- Do you want to stay outdoors as long as possible? Now is the time to install a fire pit or fire table on your porch or patio.
- Add comfortable seating and cozy blankets to create the perfect experience.
- Outdoor lighting—string lights, lanterns, sconces, or solar lights all add to the ability to stay out later at night, especially if entertaining.
- Fall and football go hand in hand. Is it time to install an outdoor television to watch sports or a movie with the kids?
Our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company is here to collaborate with you for all your remodeling needs, no matter what season it is!

Have fun sprucing up your home for this upcoming fall and winter. Need inspiration? Visit our portfolio or contact our Client Relations Coordinator today to discuss your remodeling plans. Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website.
October 30, 2023
Upgrading Your Curb Appeal
Remodeling Tips for a Stunning Front Yard Makeover in Columbus Ohio

The first glimpse as someone drives by or visits your home is the front yard and exterior. Are you ready to take that first impression from ordinary to exquisite? We’ve got some thoughts and ideas about revamping your existing landscape and modifying your front exterior to create that curb appeal WOW factor.

The Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio is ready to collaborate and create the changes you desire for the front of your home, help you with adding walkways, and design changes to unleash the curb appeal of your home.

Exterior Remodel Lakehouse in Columbus, OH

What are some tips that can take your curb appeal up a notch?

Create a Plan
- Make a list and do your research.
- What are the strengths and weaknesses as you look at your front yard and home exterior?
- What do you want to keep and what needs to be changed?
Plan the Plants
- Clean up the garden beds to see where you have room for new plantings.
- Remove any shrubs or trees that have lived their best lives and need removal.
- Divide and relocate or gift any overgrown perennials!
- Invest in native plants. Indigenous plants are well-suited for your climate, usually require less maintenance and are good for the environment.
- Layering creates depth and visual interest when using plants of varying heights. Balance with taller plants near the back and shorter plants in front.
- Invest in grasses for enduring plumage in the fall and winter and planters for summer pops of colors.
Pathways and Hardscapes
- An attractive walkway is a perfect way to create curb appeal and add a warm and inviting approach. Natural stone, bricks, and pavers can add visual interest and be a bit more elevated than concrete. Though a concrete walkway can also be beautiful!
- Create focal points with a water feature, a bench, or stones along the side of the pathway. This is a wonderful place to add pots of flowers, native plants, sculptural edging, or low growing grasses.
Edging and Borders
- Adding defined borders or edging along the flower beds, perimeter of the home, and path walkways keeps everything neat and visually pleasing.
- Use contrasting textures such as stones, rocks, bricks, or metal to contrast with the colors of the yard, plants, and exterior features of your home.
- Small boulders bring contrast and texture to an area.
- Mulch suppresses weeds, cuts down on watering and creates a polished finish to your flower and perimeter beds. But don’t pile it up around your trees! That will promote disease and possibly kill them.
Outdoor Lighting
- Illuminate and play up walkways, plants, and architectural features to enhance safety and create a curb appealing look for evenings and early mornings. Path lights, stair lights, bollard lights, up/downlights, garden lights, all create different looks and moods.
- Consider solar lights to save energy.
- Well-placed and interesting lighting on the exterior of your home, such as sconces, lantern lights, string lights, spotlights, up/downlights, and floodlights will illuminate the front door, windows, porch, trees, and bushes, as well as provide safety features.
Water Features
- The benefits of adding water features to your yard include improved air quality, increased wildlife presence and believe it or not, health benefits by reducing blood pressure and stress among others.
- The sound of trickling water can be captivating, relaxing and reduce noise pollution.
- A small pond with moving water, a statue fountain, waterfall or bird bath all provide interest.
Home Exterior
- Window boxes add color, charm, and are a welcoming visual aesthetic.
- A portico or covered front porch with planters and seating will make people want to settle in and enjoy a conversation with you.
- A new front door, repainting the existing door or a freshly painted front entry is the focal point and adds to the curb appeal.
- Replace or repaint shutters for a refreshed and updated appearance.
- Upgrade, maintain or replace gutters. (You know what we mean—sometimes those get overlooked and they can be dirty and dented.)
- Upgrade any railings on the home with quality wood or metal accents!
Landscaping Trade Partners We Collaborate With & Trust

Need help with a landscape plan and/or yard maintenance? We recommend these pros!

When our Team needs design-build landscaping help for our remodeling projects, we seek guidance and advice from GreenScapes Landscape and Hidden Creek Landscaping. We work closely with industry professionals from both companies and are always amazed at the transformations they create for our clients. We appreciate their expertise, their ability to design and install just what our clients want, and their knowledge, especially of native plants.

Check out these two recent NARI CotY award winning project collaborations!

GreenScapes Landscape

Hidden Creek Landscaping

For regular or occasional care & maintenance of your yard, we recommend these professionals but depending on their availability they can also do whole yard makeovers!
- A & M Landscaping & Lawncare – Professional full service lawn & landscape maintenance established in 2006 by Ohio University grads Michael & Adele Thomasson. They provide excellent customer service along with a passion for creating, maintaining and renovating landscapes.
- CJ’s Lawncare – Established in 1981, CJ’s has been a trusted full service lawn maintenance company serving northwest Columbus. They also provide seasoned firewood! Visit their website for more details.
Ready to renovate your home’s exterior?

Visit our Outdoor Living & Exterior portfolio for inspiration! Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today and let us know it’s time to turn up the curb appeal. Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website.
September 20, 2023
Designing the Perfect Outdoor Kitchen
Elevate and expand your entertaining space with a kitchen in your backyard!

Imagine a perfect evening—a gentle breeze, the sizzle of mouthwatering food on the grill, and a group of friends gathered around, laughing and spending time together! An outdoor kitchen can elevate any entertaining experience from ordinary to extraordinary.

A gorgeous outdoor kitchen is more than just a place to cook—it’s an experience! Creating an area with a grilling station, prep space, outdoor appliances, a sink, and bar area means there’s no need to use the indoor kitchen. By carefully considering the layout, materials, ambiance, and design, your outdoor kitchen will be the centerpiece of family and friend gatherings.

The Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio is ready to collaborate with you and create an outdoor kitchen you’ll love. Read on for tips on what you should think about when planning for your outdoor kitchen oasis

Need some inspiration? Watch the Outdoor Living Spaces playlist on our YouTube channel!

Before the Design

Location

Where you place your kitchen and the additional seating makes a difference. It can be placed close to the home on an existing patio, along the exterior walls or deeper into the yard. Having it close to your indoor kitchen allows for quick access, especially if you’re not adding outdoor appliances, storage, or a sink. Further away can provide you with a larger and separate entertaining area and endless style opportunities.

Scope and Budget

Decide what features you must have and the ones you want. From simple to sophisticated, straightforward to extravagant, the options are endless. Do your research to explore costs. Consider which of the following are important for your entertaining needs. At the very least, you’ll want a top-of-the-line grill, prep space or countertop, beverage station, and at least one table with seating.

Other decisions to consider are:
- Grill—built-in or standalone
- Food prep area—free-standing or built-in countertop
- Sink with or without plumbing/water
- Countertop—free-standing or built-in
- Flooring—deck, concrete or paver patio
- Refrigeration—beverage drawers, wine fridge, portable coolers
- Cabinetry and storage
- Trash and recycling receptacles
- Tables, stools or chairs, bar counter
- Shade—landscape, awning, pergola, roof extension
- Lighting
- Décor
- Heat for cool days & nights—firepit, columns or built-in heaters
Utilities

Understand what utility lines you have and where they are. This should involve a call to your utility companies to come to mark your lines for water, gas, and electricity. If you want running water, plumbing lines will need to be installed. Gas and electricity will need to be installed as well if the proper lines don’t currently exist.

The Design

Measure

How large of a space can your backyard accommodate? Measure the area to ascertain the space available. Know what your city’s requirements are for property line setback. After measuring, you’ll need to determine different areas for a large (or smaller) kitchen—areas for cooking, dining, and entertaining and create a drawing for layout options using those numbers. Will there be enough room for all you want?

Layout a Floorplan

Visualize how the space will look by laying out the kitchen components on your drawing. Flooring, built-in features, countertops, cabinets, the sink, and outdoor refrigerators and appliances are the first things to plan for. It might even be helpful to tape off the areas and features outside in the space where the kitchen will reside, in order to move around the space and make sure what you want created will fit the area. Include the furniture and accessories in this step.

Working with an experienced professional, such as the Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company, is advantageous during this phase of planning. Not only do we walk through all of these steps with you, but we also provide our years of experience and expertise to ensure an effective layout, functionality, and compliance with setbacks and utilities. Not to mention helping you get the biggest bang for your buck!

Think Functionality

An outdoor kitchen, when truly elevated in design, should have four zones for maximum functionality. A cold area for the refrigerator and ice maker, a hot area for the grill and other cooking appliances, the sink/bar in the wet area, and a dry area for meal prep, extra counter space, and serving area. Also, consider the direction the wind blows in your backyard.

Additional Things to Consider
- Cooking on more than just a grill—pizza oven, smoker, griddle, burners, etc.
- Choosing appliances that are versatile if you don’t want all separate ones.
- Separate space for lounging or even an outdoor living room is important if you want more than just the kitchen and a table and will really set your outdoor living space apart.
- Here in Ohio, it’s important to think about winterizing and insulating appliances and counters to protect them from the winter elements.
- If you are going to utilize storage in your outdoor kitchen, you need to consider the critters that might have access and plan accordingly. (We don’t encourage keeping any food or paper products outside.)
- Weatherproof materials are a necessity, especially if your kitchen is open to the weather elements. Stainless steel, wood, cement, brick, stone, HDPE (high-density polyethylene), granite, concrete, and tile are all available options for various parts of your design.
The possibilities are almost endless with outdoor kitchens. Designing your backyard to fit your family’s lifestyle is key to elevating your home. The Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company can collaborate with you to create an outdoor kitchen you will never want to leave. So, let’s fire up the grill, raise a glass, and savor the memories made in your outdoor oasis!

Ready to get started planning your new outdoor kitchen?

Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today! Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website.
August 30, 2023
Space Saving Strategies for a Compact Bathroom
Small Bathroom, Big Potential – Bathroom Remodeling Solutions in Columbus, Ohio.

Do you have a small bathroom? While totally serviceable, a small bathroom can be made better with a few tweaks and changes (or a complete renovation). The Development Team at The Cleary Company has created many unique and creative solutions when remodeling small bathroom footprints. Sometimes it’s just not possible to add square footage to a bathroom, but it doesn’t have to look cluttered or feel cramped. It is possible to create space, storage, and openness.

Check out these small footprint bathroom remodeling projects! Want to see more inspiration? Visit our Bathrooms Portfolio!

Design Details to Consider:
- Using pocket or “barn style” sliding doors instead of swinging doors. If using a pocket door isn’t possible in your current space, reversing the existing door so that it swings out will give you space to move around.
- Keep as much off the floor as possible to keep the room open. Consider a wall-hung toilet, a floating vanity, or wall storage, instead of cabinet storage.
- Large tiles with minimal grout lines or tiles running in a diagonal pattern give the illusion of a larger room. Additionally, running wall tiles all the way to the ceiling draws your eye up and makes the room feel higher.
- Keep it simple with soft, natural, neutral shades. A light color palette will create the appearance of a larger bathroom, but don’t be afraid to add a splash of dark or bold color for drama as an accent. If you choose a darker color, add pops of light, bright neutrals with the fixtures, countertops, and towels. Ultimately, color is such a personal choice.
- Maybe it’s time for a wet room—with a spa shower and freestanding tub in the same space or eliminating the bathtub completely!
- If you really must have a tub but need to save on space, choose a shower/tub combo and use a curved shower curtain rod.
- Use compact fixtures designed for small spaces. Our Design Consultants can help source in-stock and custom pieces from a wide variety of suppliers in our network.
Lighting Matters:
- The right lights will make a room feel larger.
- Layer the lighting with under cabinet lights, mounted wall sconces, overhead recessed cans and illuminated medicine cabinets will create a mood or style and will cut down on shadows.
Magical Mirrors:
- Strategically placed mirrors create the illusion of space, reflect light, and brighten up bathrooms, especially in bathrooms without windows.
- Use a large mirror above the sink or one on a medicine cabinet. If there is a window, strategically place a mirror to bounce natural light around the room.
- Install a beautiful, mirrored recessed medicine cabinet above the sink with a door that slides up like in the photo below!
Robern 48″ customizable mirrored medicine cabinet with interior lights.

Be Creative with Storage:
- Go vertical with floor-to-ceiling shelving and cabinets. Bathroom essentials, towels, and toiletries are within reach but not taking up valuable square footage.
- Adding built-in or better yet floating shelves above the toilet is another way to save space in a small footprint.
- Recessed niches in the walls whether in the shower, above the toilet or near the vanity also save valuable space within a small bathroom.
- Install the largest vanity that will fit maximum drawer storage.
- Towel bars and hooks on the back of a bathroom door can free up any available wall space for shelving.
- Custom storage solutions like pull-out makeup mirrors, in-drawer outlets, and divided drawers will keep all your toiletry needs from cluttering the countertops.
Ready to remodel your bathroom?

Do you have a small bathroom that needs an upgrade by implementing many of these space-saving solutions? Contact our Remodel-Design-Build Team today to discuss your home remodeling projects! Give us a call at 614-459-4000 or contact us through our website.
August 2, 2023
Decluttering Your Home with Frog Hauling

Spring is here! It’s a good time to clean and declutter your home. Remodeling, DIY projects, and general decluttering have one big thing in common—what to do with everything you’re removing from the home. When our Remodel-Design-Build Team at the Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio remodels a home, the project sizes range from a whole house transformation or addition to a renovation of a single room like a bathroom or basement.

For the removal of construction debris on our job site, we rely on our preferred vendor and friends at Frog Hauling. They are the largest mini dumpster rental and hauling service in the Columbus Metro area and they provide our Team and clients with the right sized container to fit each project’s needs for debris disposal.

When we see Frog Hauling dumpsters all over town, we know they’re also being used for your DIY and decluttering projects.

How the “Dumpster” Leads to Something New at Your Home

Decluttering is typically at the bottom of everyone’s list but clutter in our home or business can negatively impact our everyday routine. Decluttering is an important way to practice self-care because it helps you take control of your home, your life and your “stuff” to improve your overall well-being.

Are you ready to tackle the closets, basement, garage, or whole house and get rid of junk and clutter? Or are you ready to remodel your home and make it work better for you? (We can help you with that!) However you choose to #LiveBetter, you might want to use Frog Hauling to help you easily and affordably remove what you don’t want.

Four Reasons to Use a Dumpster Rental to Declutter

1 – Tackle Larger Projects – Many homeowners find decluttering their homes to be a challenge if you have bigger items to throw away. By embracing dumpster rental from a trusted hauling company, you can focus on these large-scale projects. Tossing outdated equipment and belongings that clutter your garage and shed won’t require additional logistics.

2 – Provides a Timeline – When you have a busy household and work obligations, you may delay seasonal cleaning projects. By scheduling a dumpster rental, you’ll create a timeline and have the motivation to complete your project. With the tools in place to toss, recycle, donate, and organize your home, getting started—and finishing—will be that much easier.

3 – Easy Toss & Recycle – Based on your needs, you can rent various dumpster sizes. Talk to your hauling company and let them know if you have recyclables, glass bottles, roofing materials, yard debris, or other items that may not be suitable for the garbage dump. Your junk hauling company can help you create a dumpster system that’s sustainable while aligning with your needs.

4 – Convenience – Best of all, dumpster rental makes decluttering simple and easy. You won’t have to worry about overfilled trash cans or finding an appropriate method to toss your unwanted junk. With plenty of space to get organized, seasonal home cleaning will be quick, seamless, and rewarding.

If you need a reliable dumpster rental service to complete your home cleaning project, contact Frog Hauling. Based in Columbus, OH, homeowners throughout Franklin County have easy access to affordable, well-maintained, and convenient debris hauling services. To discuss your needs, call (614) 258-3764 to speak with a friendly member of their team. For more information on their offerings and commitment to providing eco-friendly options, visit their website.

Ready to start a remodeling project? Get started here!

Partners in the Remodeling Industry and in the Community

George & Marty brought their companies together in 2020 to “fill the dumpster” with backpacks and school supplies for Volunteers of America’s Operation Backpack. That year we collected a record number 133 filled backpacks plus additional boxes of bags and school supplies. Each year VoA’s collections help more than 5,000 in central Ohio enter the classroom equipped to be successful in their education.

George Cleary CR – Owner of The Cleary Company & Marty Reed – Frog Hauling

April 3, 2023