Join George Cleary and his Remodel-Design-Build Team on Friday, September 27, 2024. We’re celebrating 30 years of Home Remodeling Excellence in true Cleary fashion with food, friends, & fun for the whole family!
Making a major change to your home can be exciting and rewarding. It can also seem overwhelming. There are many ways to approach a remodeling project. Some of the most common are DIY or hiring a handyman, jack of all trades, or general contractor. For larger, more complex projects there are two options – hire an architect and/or designer and then a general contractor or hire a Design-Build remodeling firm.
In 1994 when George created The Cleary Company, he used the general contractor model working with different architects and designers over the years to create some amazing projects. After 15 years, he realized to best serve his clients it was time to add design to the company’s services. So, in 2009 George hired his first full-time designer, Laura Watson! Read more about our Design-Build process on our blog.
Differences Between a Residential Designer vs a Design Consultant?
What is a Residential Designer?
A residential designer, also known as a home designer, is a type of interior designer who specializes in working with clients to create functional and visually appealing living spaces. They work with client specifications and requirements to create the layout and structure of either new or existing homes. Our Designers advise on home construction features in relation to how each room should function to meet the client’s needs. They work closely with our Production Team to create a construction plan to help build the various features for each design-build project.
What is a Design Consultant?
A design consultant is a professional who provides aesthetic expertise and product knowledge based on the evaluation of the client’s needs and style. Our Design Consultants
Assist with client selections of fixtures & finishes
Create selection sheets for Design-Build projects
Price project selections within budget
Calculate material take-offs & place orders
Manage samples in design studio
Coordinate vendor meetings for new product offerings and lunch-n-learns
What You Should Know Before Starting Your Remodel Project
HGTV is not reality, it’s for entertainment. The more research you can do before you hire a remodeler, the more you’ll enjoy the process of developing your design plan. And although the design process can feel long, especially when you’re ready to get started with demo, all the planning on the front end pays off during the construction phase.
It’s not necessarily the product selections you make that drives the cost of your project but adding to the scope of work. It may seem obvious but when a project begins with a single room, a kitchen or bathroom for example, it’s easy to get caught up in thinking, “they’re already here so let’s remodel the mudroom or laundry too!”. This will certainly increase not only the materials but also the labor hours required to build a project.
It’s ok to feel emotional during your remodel. Change is hard and remodeling is messy. Our Design-Build Team is with you through every step. We utilize our 27+ years of remodeling experience to have your best interest in mind.
Friends, family, and others will offer advice and opinions throughout your project. It’s ok to listen but don’t let it dissuade you from choosing what makes you happy. Our Design Team enjoys getting to know you, your style, and your needs so that we can collaborate with you to create a successful remodeling plan.
Remodeling is not EVER going to go perfectly as planned. There will be bumps, surprises, delays, and inconveniences. With over 27+ years of experience in remodeling, our Design-Build Team has pretty much seen it all and we’re prepared to take care of you and your home and manage your project to a successful completion.
To read more about what to expect during your home remodel, Check out our blog!
Meet Our Design Team
Laura WatsonKatie FlorjancicShannon TannehillEmily Perebzak
Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP – Development & Design Department Manager – 30+ years experience – 2009 joined TCC – BA Interior Design @ University of Charleston
Katie Florjancic, UDCP – Project Developer/Designer – 12+ years experience – 2020 joined TCC – BS Interior Design & Business Management @ Ohio University
Shannon Tannehill, UDCP – Design Consultant – 7+ years experience – 2021 joined TCC – Interior Design @ The Art Institute of Cincinnati
Emily Perebzak, UDCP – Designer – 3 years experience – 2022 joined TCC – BA Interior Design & Marketing @ Kent State University
Learn more about NARI’s Universal Design Certified Professional certification and why they matter to our Team here!
Design Team Q & A
We asked several of our designers the following questions and were intrigued by their answers. We love seeing their personalities and love for design come through in their thoughts.
Describe your favorite project.
Laura – I have been in this too long to have a favorite but the ones I love are the ones where the client comes back years later to tell us they still love their new space.
Katie – My favorite projects to design are kitchens! As an amateur home chef, I love to help others think about how they use their kitchens and come up with creative solutions to keep cooking fun!
Shannon – A remodel I designed was a new plan for a tiny, dated kitchen that had very little storage and counter space and transformed it into a fresh and functional space. It was an elegant mix of greenish-grey and white cabinets, Cambria countertops, and gold hardware.
Best new product in the last 1-3 years? Why?
Laura – The bidet seat! Although this product has been around longer than 3 years, clients are finally catching on. Every home should have one. It saves on toilet paper, it’s very hygienic, it’s wonderful for the elderly, small children, and those with health issues.
Katie – Touch faucets! Older than 3 years but still a favorite. As someone who loves to cook, I love the ease of turning on and off the faucet without contaminating the faucet with raw meat germs.
Shannon – Pull down bathroom faucet! Such an easy way to clean the bathroom sink.
List 3 things you teach every client during the design process.
Laura:
Trust your designer.
Communicate likes & also dislikes.
Stay away from using too many trends.
Katie:
It’s important to create a space that functions well.
A well designed space utilizes design principles but always breaks at least one too.
Adding personal touches to each project makes the space unique to each client.
Shannon:
Staying in budget.
Finding their real design style.
Maximize function of their space.
Just for Fun!
What’s your dream project? Why?
Laura – Any type of project when a client knows what they like, can communicate well, and listens to their designer!
Katie – A boutique hotel because I love to travel and believe a space can enhance your experience.
Shannon – Expanding kitchen footprints. Taking down walls and adding more storage. Installing new lighting and hardware to pull the spaces together.
Ready to Remodel your home?
Relationships and collaboration are important to our Team’s success. We live and love the details!
If you are ready to work with the best Design-Build Team in Columbus, OH, give us a call @ 614-459-4000 OR visit the Contact page on our website. The experienced Design-Build professionals on our Team are ready to get started to create your dream home!
Think of your home’s entryway as a handshake, a first impression that sets the tone. It’s more than bricks and mortar—it’s a way to highlight your personality and create a seamless transition from the outside world into your abode. Are you ready to unleash the power of your entryway? Our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus Ohio explores some design and style ideas from curb appeal to entryways—integrating design and style to bring new life to your home.
Make Heads Turn with Your Curb Appeal
Originally the street side of this home had no entry for guests except through the garage. A porch addition with new wide double door entry is much more inviting.
Good Lighting: Install welcoming porch lights that cast a warm glow and enhance safety. Choose ones that fit your personality and your home’s style.
Color & Bling: Greet guests with a smile! A fresh coat of paint, paired with stylish door hardware and house numbers instantly transforms the entrance. Consider bold colors or unique finishes that reflect the style of the home. A new richly colored wooden door is quite the statement as well.
Dress up your doorstep: Update that welcome mat with a seasonal design, a fun message, or a classic look. Potted plants add color and vibrancy, a small water feature creates a calming mood, and seasonal decorations announce a festive presence.
Walk this way: Create a clear and inviting pathway to your home. Use pavers, stone slabs, or a new concrete sidewalk to welcome guests. Add with low-maintenance greenery along the borders. Don’t forget lighting your walkways for safety at night. Easy to install solar powered options can be found online or at most home improvement stores.
Enhancing Entryways
Storage Solutions: No one wants a cluttered entryway, but life happens, right? Say goodbye to clutter by using stylish benches, shoe cubbies, or built-in cabinets. Multifunctional pieces that offer storage and seating maximize space and functionality.
Mirror Magic: A strategically placed mirror in the entryway can open the space, reflect light, and create a sense of depth. Plus, who doesn’t like a quick outfit check or last glance before heading out the door?
Welcome with Color: Add a splash for a statement! Paint a piece of furniture, add some wallpaper to one wall, put some colorful pillows on the bench, or add a vibrant rug to personalize what might otherwise be a boring area.
Light it up: Layer lighting with a combination of overhead fixtures, table lights, and sconces. Depending on the need, you’ll have the right lighting. And a light left on at night welcome those late arrivals.
Greenery is life: Choosing some low-maintenance hardy plants to flank the door or sit on an entry table or bench not only purifies the air but adds a touch of nature. Snake plants, Monsteras, and air plants are good options.
Seamless Integration of Outside & Indoors
A new front porch is not only welcoming to guests but is also a great place to read or enjoy your neighborhood.
Let the outside in: If you have a mudroom or a porch, consider installing French doors, a new door with a larger window, or large windows to connect the indoor and outdoor spaces. Creating a light and airy feel, while maximizing the natural light, can really brighten up the entryway.
Feature the flooring: Create a smooth transition from your entryway to the rest of your home with similar materials or colors to create continuity and visual flow. Or do the complete opposite and make the entryway floor a stand-alone feature to set the tone. There are no rules!
Control Clutter: Remember that storage idea we talked about? If you walk in and step over shoes, coats, and bookbags, storage is needed. Are you a bit unorganized? Create designated spaces for keys, mail, and other everyday items.
Need More Inspiration?
Watch this video compilation of our favorite Design-Build porch additions and remodels.
Learn more about creating outdoor living spaces by reading our blog.
Ready to Get Started on Your Entryway Remodel?
Remodeling your entryway doesn’t have to be a big task. It can be as simple as a few cosmetic changes. But if you’re ready to tackle a larger project that reimagines the front of your home give us a call! Our Development & Design Team will collaborate and guide you in unlocking the full potential of your home’s exterior or interior.
Together, we can create an entryway that not only makes a statement but also welcomes you home with open arms. Contact our Client Relations Coordinator to discuss your next remodeling project today! Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website.
Project Spotlight: Backyard outdoor living space addition includes converting an existing covered porch into a sunroom, installing new stamped concrete patio with timber framed roof extension and a stone fireplace. In total, four separate but connected spaces were designed and built allowing the family to utilize more of their beautifully landscaped yard and increasing the living and entertaining spaces for their home.
Before & After Floorplans
Existing Backyard & As-Built Site PlanProposed Plan New Patio, Pavilion, Fireplace & Sunroom
Project Scope & Details
Project Year: 2023
Project Cost: $200,001 – $500,000
Enclose the existing 230sf covered porch to convert to a new sunroom with access to new outdoor spaces through a new doorway.
Keep existing window locations & door into the home.
Install five new double-hung windows on the west wall.
LVT flooring was installed for ease of maintenance.
Replace existing lighting and ceiling fan.
Interior view of proposed sunroom addition
New stamped concrete patio 820sf.
Build timber frame roof extension of cedar over 285sf middle section of new patio.
Build seating bar to accommodate 12.
Install stone veneer around bar seating with a granite countertop.
Proposed rendering sunroom addition exterior & outdoor living space.
Build new 2-sided masonry fireplace with stone veneer and gas starter.
Install into the ceiling of the pavilion 10 can lights, 2 electric outdoor heaters and a combo fan-light.
Provide new electric service in the fireplace chimney for TV installation.
Elevations of proposed fireplace an roof extension.
After Photos
View full project photos on Houzz. Watch a video tour of this project on our YouTube channel! Want inspiration for your outdoor living project? Visit the Outdoor Living & Exteriors Portfolio on our website!
Ready to Get Started on Your Sunroom or Outdoor Living Space Addition? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator by calling 614-459-4000 or visit our website.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry of Central Ohio (NARI-CO) held its annual Evening of Excellence on Friday December 1, 2023 at the Westin Great Southern Columbus. Almost 300 members of the local NARI remodeling community attended the event which honors remodeling excellence in Central Ohio and the many volunteers and sponsors who serve the chapter.
George Cleary, owner of The Cleary Company, and 17 members of his Team attended and received the following awards:
Achievement in Consumer Excellence
NARI-CO ACE winners recognize members with a client survey average of at least 3.5 out of 4 points. Consumer referrals are the strongest form of leads for remodeling contractors. Who more likely would a consumer believe, but another consumer who has experienced the services first-hand? The Cleary Company is proud to have received this award for 19 years in a row!
Team Cleary has won a total 33 NARI-CO CotY awards since their first in 2007! George, always filled with excitement and joy for his team says, “Competition for the CotYs is always fierce. We really do incredible work and it’s a true honor to have that work honored and recognized by our peers.”
What is a CotY Award?
The prestigious Contractor of the Year (CotY) awards are presented each year by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) to its members who have demonstrated outstanding design and craftsmanship through their remodeling projects. Members can nominate their projects through an online portal for judging by peers selected by NARI Executives outside their local chapter or region.
CotY award-winning remodeling projects demonstrate exceptional design and craftsmanship in renovation. A diverse and impartial panel rates each project based on 5 criteria.
To what degree were the expressed needs of the client met?
To what degree does the project enhance the existing structure functionally?
Is there evidence of superior craftsmanship?
To what degree does the project enhance the existing structure aesthetically?
Were innovative used of materials and/or methods of construction used in the project?
The Cleary Company’s Commitment to NARI
The Cleary Company is proud to have several active members in NARI’s Central Ohio chapter, located in its East Central Region. Aaron Enfinger, CR is also currently serving on the National Board in the role of Treasurer.
There are currently 12 team members who’ve earned NARI professional certifications.
George Cleary CR
Aaron Enfinger CR
Jen Sommers CR
Laura Watson UDCP
Katie Florjancic UDCP
John Hamlett UDCP
Margot Sheehan UDCP
Shannon Tannehill UDCP
Garrett Raney UDCP
Justin Juenger CRPM
Rob Lindeboom CLC
Dave Elliott CLC
Click here to learn why we believe our commitment to continuing education should matter to you.
Stay tuned for announcements of NARI’s Regional CotY award winners coming February 2024!
Kitchen remodeling is one of the most popular home remodeling projects call our Team receives. And it’s also one that we love to design and build for our clients! The kitchen is the heart of your home, a place for family and friends to gather and cook, eat, and hang out. But when you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen, it can be tough to know where to start.
That’s where our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company, Columbus, OH comes in. We get to see the kitchen renovation process from start to finish. We are blessed and grateful to work with so many amazing clients since 1994 and to share their joy when they see their vision come to life.
From Vision to Reality: Kitchen Remodeling
Helping homeowners create their dream kitchen: Let’s face it, we love working with people! We wouldn’t be doing it for so long if we didn’t love seeing our clients’ reactions to their new kitchens, seeing their visions become reality, and spending time interacting with them from our first conversation to the last. We love knowing that we played a part in creating a space they’ll love for years to come. In 2023, we published Kitchen Inspirations to help even more. Download your copy here!
Creating a space that is functional: A kitchen isn’t just a place to cook. It’s a place to entertain, live life, finish homework around a kitchen island, socialize, and eat! It’s important for us to focus on the functionality of a kitchen for each client. Our experienced Design Team uses principles of Universal Design and Aging in Place Design to create spaces that function for the entire family in all stages of life.
Creating functionality in a kitchen is a bit like a puzzle. How can we add storage, create more space, change the flow and function, and optimize the existing space? Challenge accepted!
Transforming outdated kitchens: We’ve seen it all—outdated appliances, cramped layouts, small kitchens, and dated finishes. There’s nothing like taking it from outdated to beautiful and inviting.
Using the materials and technology that work for each project: New materials and technology emerge all the time. It’s important that our designers and craftspeople use what is best and needed for each remodeled kitchen. We know what works, what is new and trending, and what is timeless. Knowing all of this allows us to offer our clients the best possible solutions and products.
Applying our creativity and expertise: Solving problems with innovative solutions is a big part of our process. We love using the creativity and expertise of our Team to develop solutions to interesting challenges. Especially storage related problems!
Making a difference & Improving Your Home Life
Creating a well-designed kitchen, addressing your needs and wants, makes a significant difference in your life. Efficient prep space, an enjoyable cooking experience, and better flow and function are the cornerstones of our design process. We can’t guarantee to make you a better cook, but we can guarantee we will make a difference in your kitchen!
Kitchen remodeling is more than tearing down walls, expanding the footprint, installing cabinets and new appliances. It’s about creativity, functionality, beauty, and building relationships. For almost 30 years our Team has been remodeling homes in Columbus, Ohio and we’ve transformed many kitchen spaces for our clients. We’re ready to transform yours next! Click here to view our Kitchens Portfolio.
Ready to get started? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator by calling the office at 614-459-4000 or visit our website.
Bryan and Richard have made a lot of changes to their 1950’s 2-story home in Upper Arlington, OH since purchasing it in 2019, but hired our Remodel-Design-Build Team to add some much-needed space to complete their vision and upgrade the curb appeal. Their home is now an entertaining dream with flow, function, and amazing views.
Q & A with Bryan & Richard
What was the goal for your remodel?
We wanted to rebuild our dining/living room to feel seamless and as comfortable as the rest of the house. It was important to create a great flow to our outdoor patio spaces.
We completely remodeled the house 2 years prior to working with The Cleary Company, but this renovation did not include any physical additions to the space. During the original remodel, we relocated the kitchen to one-half of the first-floor footprint that took over the existing dining room in order to incorporate a new mud room area with laundry, coat closet and a half bath. With this change, we moved the dining room to the living room to create a “great room” concept. We love the house and enjoy all the initial renovations that also included extensive landscaping and outdoor patio areas.
Unfortunately, the living/dining room side of the house was just too tight and didn’t feel nearly as enjoyable as the rest of the house. Quite simply, it didn’t match all the other enhancements to the home. This was the reason for our recent renovation with The Cleary Company.
With our love of the outside spaces of our home, we also wanted to enhance the curb appeal of this very traditional 1950’s UA layout.
L to R: Interior Living & Dining room spaces, Exterior rear view
What is your favorite aspect of your remodeled space?
The natural light and flow. We love windows and we put a lot of them into the small space! While we only added about 200 total square feet but, the flow and “livability” of the space is absolutely wonderful! The “great room” now connects our front sitting area to our back patio and it’s all seamless.
Additionally, the new front and back porches and gables, with several beautiful design details, completely changes the curb appeal from a 1950’s box to a beautiful modern feeling home. We enjoy entertaining our friends and family and everyone comments on how comfortable our home is. We think that is about the best compliment you can receive!
What advice would you offer to someone who is thinking of remodeling their home? Live in your space for a bit before starting the remodeling process to really understand what you like and what you want to change. Understand that the inconvenience of the work and mess is really a moment in time. Once done, it becomes a very distant memory while you enjoy the vision you had for your home!
The Cleary Company Remodel Difference
Why did you choose The Cleary Company to complete your remodeling project?
We saw their signs throughout the community and attended one of their NARI tour homes. We asked people who were using them directly how they felt about the work and the comments were very positive. We felt that the quality of the workmanship we saw throughout these discussions was very good.
What was your favorite part of working with The Cleary Company and why?
Their attention to detail. We felt that while we knew they were handling multiple and larger renovations they had their attention focused on our project in a way that made us feel valued. We never felt as if we weren’t getting the attention we needed throughout the process. No matter how much you know about construction, there will be things that concern you when it is your own house. We thought they did a very good job in explaining what was happening and how a resolution would come to the project.
Who from our Team stood out and how did they exceed your expectations?
Laura Watson, Rob Lindeboom and Ben Ludlow. They were all so kind and respectful of us as homeowners living through the process.
Laura was outstanding in organizing our thoughts and preferences into a final design that checked all the boxes. She is fun and you can tell she truly enjoys design and the challenges of the project.
Rob is a very good communicator. He is honest and direct and when he doesn’t have the answer he gets back to you with one in a timely manner. He really keeps things moving and always took time to keep us up to date on progress, challenges, etc. We added a few things to the project, and I felt like he was very helpful in guiding those changes for the improvement of the overall project.
Ben was fantastic—we felt like he became part of our family! He is proud of his work and helps to keep everyone moving in the right direction. He, too, is a great communicator and works to resolve things quickly. Usually by the time we would ask a question it had already been resolved!
I would also add that all the subs that work with The Cleary Company were outstanding. We had no issues with any of them. They were all very respectful of being in our home while we were living there.
I work in commercial food service and have been long involved in design build projects for large commercial kitchens. I was so impressed that when we got to the final punch list—I had nothing to put on it; I have never experienced this in my career! Rob and Ben did an outstanding job of managing the details up to the last day.
Just for Fun!
In one word why did you choose to do business with The Cleary Company?
Quality
Would you recommend The Cleary Company?
Absolutely and we have several times already!
Are you ready to remodel your home?
Get started today by visiting our website! Our Remodel-Design-Build Team is ready to help you navigate the remodeling process, upgrade your home’s curb appeal and collaborate with you to make your vision of your home a reality.
Are you planning a home remodel in Columbus, Ohio? Want to know more about what it means to hire a Design-Build firm? Read on to see how the experienced professionals at The Cleary Company work with clients to design and build projects that meet their remodeling needs and their budget.
The Remodel-Design-Build process simplified. We get to know you and you get to know us. Discovering your unique style and vision for your home is a critical step in the development of your project. Together, we work to find the answers to your project’s biggest questions. With guidance from your Project Developer and inspiration from your Designer, we work to create the home of your dreams within your budget. Then, our skilled Project Managers and Lead Carpenters provide you high-quality installation and service. You sit back and watch your dream come together. When the renovation lifecycle has completed, all that is left to do is enjoy your beautiful new space!
After you’ve given us a call or submitted a new project form online you’ll have the chance to speak with our Client Relations Coordinator. They will ask you a few questions, but mostly they will listen to you describe the type of remodeling project you’re interested in discussing. They will also schedule an appointment for you to meet with one of our Project Developers and the renovation lifecycle begins.
Step 1: Meet your Project Developer (1-3 weeks)
A Project Developer will first meet with you in your home (or if you prefer, a virtual meeting via FaceTime or Zoom can be arranged!) to learn more about your project and discuss your budget range. They will explain the details of our process and scheduling goals. You’ll begin to understand what The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build is all about: dedicated remodeling professionals who collaborate and deliver experience, high-quality design and skilled construction.
If we are a good fit and you choose to move forward with our Team, you will commit to a Design Agreement by paying the design fee.
Step 2: Meet your Designer (2-4 weeks)
The next scheduled meeting will also be in your home. Your Project Developer will introduce you to your Designer. Your Designer will conduct a detailed interview to discover your likes and dislikes about your home. Easy and fun collaboration will be enabled through a Houzz Ideabook! You will also establish the Design Schedule by setting the dates for all the subsequent meetings in the design process. So, have your family calendar handy!
During this time your Project Developer and our Project Consultant will be taking photos and measurements for the As-Build drawings.
Step 3: Design Presentation (2-4 weeks)
You will meet your Team at The Cleary Company design studio office to review floor plan options for your project. After choosing your favorite floor plan, you’ll explore a variety of materials to begin the process of making product selections.
Step 4: Trade Partner Visit (2-4 weeks)
For the estimation of your project to establish the construction budget, your Project Developer and our Project Consultant will invite our Trade Partners to a scheduled visit at your home. This meeting is to ensure quote accuracy and the chance for detecting any potential issues that could create challenges in our proposed plans.
Based on your floor plan choice at the design presentation meeting, your Designer is continuing to create an overall design and details, as well as draw elevations and 3D renderings. Our Design Consultant is also involved in gathering product selection suggestions and getting quotes. All of this information will be used to establish your project’s budget.
Step 5: Construction Contract (2-4 weeks)
At this time you will again meet at The Cleary Company design studio office to review all of the details, documents, drawings, selection suggestions and Scope of Work for your project. The budget number will also be reviewed and you will decide on any options that arose during development.
If all goes as planned you will sign your Construction Contract and set the remaining meeting dates for final selection sign off!
Step 6: Selection Finalization (2-3 weeks)
At this final pre-construction meeting you will meet with your Designer and/or our Design Consultant to sign off on all selections. Once the design process is complete you will receive your official start date!
Your Project Developer will introduce you to your Project Manager and discuss project logistics. A communication plan will be established as well as a plan for how your family will experience the remodeling work. Our Team will introduce our Project APP through BuilderTrend.
After this meeting you can start to clear out the areas in your home where work will happen! The Renovation Lifecycle is nearly complete.
PROJECT LAUNCH – IT’S GAME DAY – CONSTRUCTION BEGINS!
Investing in a home remodel is a big decision. You probably have many questions. For example,
How do I find the right company to plan my design and construct my project?
How much do I need to budget for my project?
What selections do I need to make?
What will my home be worth after my remodel is completed?
At The Cleary Company, our Design-Build Team collaborates with clients to determine their needs and wants for their home. Our goal? To create the vision for you that fits your budget, desires, and plans, all while giving you the best experience and value, executed by experienced craftsman.
We truly care about your remodeling experience! After all, we’ve been doing it here in Columbus, OH and throughout central Ohio for over 27 years.
When planning your home remodel, there are many factors to consider. Depending on your wants and needs, we will give you options and discuss potential costs for your project. Calculating costs requires knowing first the design, the scope and size of the project and the type of renovation you want to do.
When we begin discussions with clients about their projects, the first topic revolves around the scope of the project. Our Design-Build Team is well-versed in all scenarios!
Does it involve a refresh or do you need to change the form and function of the space?
Do you need to add a room, a 2nd floor, an outdoor living area, or take an existing home back to the original foundation and rebuild?
Researching Home Remodeling Costs
To find some answers to your budget questions, we recommend reviewing Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs Value Report. This annual publication is helpful for finding average remodeling costs in Columbus OH and many other cities and regions around the country. It also provides additional information on different building projects and their expected ROI.
To help you get started planning your kitchen, bathroom, home addition, or exterior renovation, our Design Team has assembled some projects to help guide you in your research. Each project is different and while we can’t give you a set budget before we talk with you, we do invite you to read these varying project examples and approximately priced budgets for some of our more popular renovation projects.
Kitchen Remodeling
Your kitchen is where family life happens. It’s where we gather to cook, eat, gather, entertain, and even conduct the occasional school science experiment. Being that it’s a space where a great deal of time is spent, it needs to function to meet all your needs. If you’ve done some research, you know there is a wide range of pricing options depending on the scope of the kitchen remodel project.
Below are 3 budget ranges and 3 possible scopes to help you consider what your kitchen remodeling project might cost.
UPSCALE – Increase square footage of footprint with a 1 or 2-story addition
Upscale Bexley, OH Home Remodel
Possible Scope of Work and Finishes – Estimated Price Range: $200k – $300k+
Increase square footage of footprint with an addition or combining rooms
Move and/or add plumbing and appliances plus increase lighting and electric
Quartz countertops, custom tile backsplash and heated tile or exotic wood floors
Plenty of custom cabinetry and a large island (or two!) with seating and storage
High-end gourmet appliance package
Greatest number of choices for finishes and materials
MIDRANGE – Remove & replace all with small changes within the existing footprint
Your bathroom is your personal private space where escaping from day-to-day activity and stress is possible. Everyone wants a comfortable, functional space to decompress and recharge. You may have seen shows on TV or searched photos online, and you’ve seen gorgeous, spa-like bathrooms that have piqued your interest. While researching costs, you know there is a broad range of available pricing. What’s the difference between a midrange and upscale bathroom remodeling project?
Below are 3 budget ranges and 3 possible scopes to help you decide what your bathroom remodeling project might cost.
UPSCALE – Increase footprint of bathroom w/an addition or using other rooms in home
Possible Scope of Work & Selections – ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE: $95k – 150k+
Reworking the existing footprint
Move and/or add all or most plumbing & hvac
Upgrade existing lighting and electric
Greatest number of choices for finishes & materials
Quartz countertops
Tile flooring & walls w/custom accents
Custom cabinetry w/personalized storage solutions
Large custom shower with multiple showerheads & body sprays
All new drywall, trim & paint
New windows
Optional soaking tub
Optional steam shower
Optional heated flooring
MIDRANGE – Some modifications to the existing layout; remove & replace
Bexley, OH Bathroom Remodel – approx 92sf
Possible Scope of Work & Selections – ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE: $75k – $100k+
Possibly move and/or add some plumbing, electric and/or hvac
Upgrade existing level of fixtures & finishes
New lighting 2-3 fixtures
Quartz or granite countertops
Custom cabinetry with personalized storage options
Custom shower with tile
Modest custom shower w/ multiple showerheads
Some additional options may also be available
New drywall, trim & paint
View more Upscale & Midrange Bathroom remodeling projects in our Bathrooms Portfolio!
Refresh Facelift – Keeping same footprint remove & replace some or all fixtures and finishes
Grandview Heights, OH Bathroom Remodel – approx 55sf
Possible Scope of Work & Selections – ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE: $60k – $75k+
Keep existing footprint of all plumbing
Quartz or granite countertops
Kohler plumbing fixtures & accessories
Porcelain wall panels in shower
Custom or semi-custom cabinetry
Personalized storage solutions
LVT, laminate or tile floor
Home Additions
A new home addition differs from a remodel of an existing room in a home. Columbus, OH home additions typically add new square footage and require everything from the floor up to the roof. This includes the foundation, walls, ceiling, and roof as well as mechanical systems like electrical, plumbing and heating. Because you are adding something instead of changing a space that already exists, costs can vary greatly. What type of room will you be adding? Will new utilities be required? Perhaps not for a sunroom but definitely for a new bathroom. There are also many other variables, including permits, trade prices and material costs.
Adding a room to your home might be just what you need to allow you to stay in the home. Do you need more space for your children, is it time for a new owner’s suite bedroom and ensuite bath, is it time to open up walls and create a new layout, are you planning on aging in place or do you just need more room?
With new home inventory low, many people are choosing to stay in their homes and expand their footprint. Others are moving to a new-to-them home but choosing to immediately remodel the home to make it function and flow better. Whatever the case, we are a remodeling company for a reason–people want to stay in their homes in their favored neighborhoods, but require changes to the home.
Below are 3 budget ranges and 3 possible scopes to help you decide what your home addition remodeling project might cost.
Upscale – Single or 2 story addition + whole house remodel
Bathroom Private CourtyardBedroomColumbus, OH Home Addition – NARI National CotY WinnerBexley, OH Family Room Addition and Whole House Remodel
Possible Scope of Work & Finishes – Estimated Price Ranges $300k – $1m+
Increase sq ft of home by building outside the current footprint
Exterior updates including new windows and/or siding
Rework existing interior floorplan
Move and/or add plumbing & hvac
Upgrade existing lighting and electric
Greatest number of choices for finishes & materials
They say, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression”. Do us a favor and walk outside right now. Stand at the curb and look at the front of your home. Like what you see? No? It could be time to renovate the exterior of your home!
The importance of curb appeal cannot be understated. Ask any realtor and they will tell you that the first impression of a home is tantamount to success in whether a client will even enter the home. If you pull up to your home and grimace, what are others seeing when they come to visit? We understand, it’s a big undertaking, but our Design Team can walk you through many options to make your home look beautiful again. You might just need new doors, windows, or to change the paint color or siding. Or it might be time to change the architectural details of your home’s exterior.
Below are 3 budget ranges and 3 possible scopes to help you decide what your home exterior remodeling project might cost.
UPSCALE –Build an Outdoor Living Space + Major Updates to Home Exterior
BeforeAfterUpper Arlington, OH – Exterior Home Remodel w/ Outdoor Living Space
Possible Scope of Work – ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE: $150k to $250k+
Build a small addition to increase home’s square footage
Install new hardscape – patio w/ fireplace or firepit
Design-Build pergola, gazebo or shelter
Upgrades to landscaping
Add new or additional lighting & other electrical
Replace windows & doors
Paint all or most of existing stucco & trim
Add or extend existing gas line for grill
MIDRANGELarge –Update Several Details of Front and/or Rear Exterior
BeforeAfterHilliard, OH – Front Exterior Home Remodel
Possible Scope of Work – ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE: $55k to $90k+
Build new or extend existing front porch
Replace all or some windows & doors
Shutters – replace or paint existing or add new
Walkway – replace or upgrade existing or add all new
Lighting – Replace existing
Add architectural dimension with innovative design details
Siding & Trim – paint or replace existing
Upgrade landscaping
MIDRANGE Small – Upgrade Curb Appeal by Adding Architectural Details
BeforeAfterClintonville, OH – Front Exterior – Portico Addition
Possible Scope of Work – ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE: $40k to $80k+
We are passionate about translating your vision into a beautiful, functional design and building it to fit your lifestyle needs. Our professional and experienced Team loves connecting with you and building relationships along with building you an amazing project.
Are You Ready for a Home Remodel? – Move vs Stay
If you’re planning to stay in your home for a long time, or you’ve just moved into an older home, it may be time to remodel. You know how your family lives and moves throughout the home. You also know what is and isn’t working. Give us a call at 614-459-4000!
But, if you’re on the fence about whether you should remodel or move, ask and answer the questions below to help guide you.
Ask yourself these questions:
Do we live where we want to? Why do we want to stay here?
Can making changes to our home make our lives easier and better?
Do we have the space we need or do we need to create more?
What is our budget?
What do we love about our home?
Is my home worth renovating?
What are my must-haves and what is on my wish list?
Why do I want to remodel?
Are we ready to have our lives disrupted if we do a big remodeling project?
What rooms do we want to remodel and how extensive are our plans?
How soon do we want to start this project-are we willing to wait, if needed?
How will we use the room we want to renovate?
What style are we thinking about? What finishes, flooring, colors do we want?
Is this an investment we want to make?
What do we want our experience to be like?
How will the remodeling company work with us and help us?
Or read this article for more helpful information.
As always, we are here to help you navigate your way through a remodeling project. Our focus is to help you discover why you want to renovate, bring your goals and vision alive, and give you the beautiful space you want. When it comes to your kitchen, bath, home addition or exterior remodel, The Cleary Company collaborates with you even after your remodel is completed.
Our Team is always available for questions and follow-up. Our proven Design-Build process, transparent communications and working relationship is at the core of our responsibilities to you.
We invite you to read the testimonials on our blog, talk with neighbors or friends that have used our services, or contact our Client Relations Coordinator to schedule a consult.
