Cleary Company: Design Build Remodel

Tag: Columbus Home Remodeling

  • Elevate Your Bathroom’s Style to Spa Experience

    Elevate Your Bathroom’s Style to Spa Experience

    Unveiling the Secrets to a Bathroom You’ll Love.

    Are you ready to say goodbye to spending time in a dull, ordinary bathroom and hello to transforming your daily routine into a luxurious, rejuvenating experience? Remodeling your bathroom allows you to customize the space by filling it with unique features.

    The Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio is ready to collaborate and create the bathroom of your dreams that you’ll never want to leave. What can you do to elevate your bathroom experience? The sky’s the limit! Choose one or all of these ideas for your bathroom remodel to create a space designed to fit your needs.

    Showers

    • Upgrade to a digital shower system. These digital thermostatic valves allow you to preset controls for multiple users that you can activate from your smartphone or with voice commands. Set your perfect temperature, ideal water pressure, multiple body sprays and shower heads, and even music. Check out our Team’s favorites from Kohler.
    • Install additional showerheads. A large shower can handle a rain showerhead, a handheld wand, and body sprays. You see where we are ging here—more is more!
    • Incorporate hydro, aroma, chroma and/or audio therapies into your bathing experience.
    • Create a wet room. This design is a tiled space partially or fully open that involves putting the freestanding tub in the same space with a separate shower.
    • Check out these fabulous shower examples below!

    Toilets

    • Go beyond the toilet by adding a bidet. Toto & Kohler make it easy to get both in one unit or upgrade your existing toilet with a new seat that includes bidet functionality. Features include preset or custom controls for water pressure, temperature, air-drying features, and heated seats.
    • Newer toilet models are sleek and come in one- or two-piece options, floor or wall-mounted, two heights, and come in two basic bowl shapes-round or elongated. Endless size options are available to fit any space.

    Lighting

    • Mood lighting is trending, and we love it! Smart LED lighting that changes colors and brightness levels creates the mood you want—relaxation, rejuvenation, or getting ready for work or going out vibes.
    • A layered approach to lighting is important in any room but especially in a bathroom remodel. Task lights are targeted for details (think putting on makeup and shaving). Ambient lighting creates an overall uniform light level in the room. Accent lights can be the bling or art piece of the bathroom (chandelier over the tub or a beautiful wall sconce) as well as highlight an object, or just add some visual interest.

    A Few More Ideas!

    • Lighted mirrors and medicine cabinets provide ample task lighting but also brighten up the entire space.
    • Fluffy, thick, high-quality, absorbent towels are dreamy and decadent.
    • Warm towels! Add a heated towel bar or rack.
    • How about heated flooring? No more chilly toes!
    • Incorporating nature brings a sense of calm and boosts your mood and well-being. Add some green plants (a vertical garden?) river stones or water features.
    • Select eco-friendly products and fixtures like low-flow toilets, water-saving faucets, sustainable materials, or LED lighting.
    • Innovative storage ideas such as hidden cabinets, built-in shelving, hidden niches, open shelving, and more elevate the space.
    • Add seating with a small bench or chair. Giving you a seat to put on lotion, give yourself a pedicure or maybe just to sit and hide from the kids.
    • For more inspiration visit our Bathrooms Portfolio page!

    Ready for a new bathroom?

    Elevate your bathroom experience with smart technologies, cutting-edge design options, and wellness-oriented amenities. Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today and say farewell to your ordinary bathroom! Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website.

  • Space Saving Strategies for a Compact Bathroom

    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!

    hilliard

    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.

  • Kitchen & Primary Suite Remodel | Upper Arlington, OH

    Kitchen & Primary Suite Remodel | Upper Arlington, OH

    Project Spotlight: After living in their home for more than 15 years Holly & Sam were ready to make some big changes to their two-story home in Upper Arlington, Ohio. After seeing several signs and trucks they contacted The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build to discuss their projects and ideas.

    Designer Katie Florjancic, UDCP collaborated with them to create a design plan and scope of work to fit the needs of their lifestyle. Project Manager, Rob Lindeboom, CLC and Lead Carpenter, Ben Ludlow managed the job site construction to complete the build.

    Kitchen
    Kitchen
    BEFORE Remodel Kitchen – Morning room – 2pc Powder room
    primary suite
    BEFORE Primary Suite

    The Plan?

    Kitchen

    • Expand the kitchen’s footprint by removing the wall between the adjacent dining room.
    • Rework the kitchen’s floorplan to create better flow and a more functional workspace.
    • Remove the existing powder room, rework the layout to create a smaller but more functional footprint.
    • Design and build new cabinetry and bench seating in the morning room.
    Existing Kitchen floorplan
    Proposed Kitchen floorplan

    Primary Suite

    • Rework floorplan of the existing bathroom to create space for a larger shower and double vanity.
    • Remove the existing walk-in closet and build a new larger walk-in closet within the existing footprint of the bedroom.
    • Remove the door of the smaller standard closet and install a new custom built-in cabinet.
    Existing Primary Suite floorplan
    Proposed Primary Suite floorplan

    Completed Projects!

    Kitchen

    Kitchen
    AFTER Remodel New Kitchen, Morning room & 2pc Powder room

    Primary Suite

    primary suite
    primary suite
    AFTER Remodel New Primary Suite

    Both the kitchen and primary suite not only received significant upgrades but both spaces now function better for our clients!

    5-star Guild Quality review ~ “Great people to work with. Very friendly and professional.”

    Are you ready to remodel your kitchen and/or primary suite? Click here to get started!

  • National Awards For Remodeling & Company Culture

    National Awards For Remodeling & Company Culture

    The month of April not only brings showers but for George Cleary it’s also his birthday and the month he launched The Cleary Company! In addition to celebrating 29 years of remodeling in Columbus, OH, George and his Remodel-Design-Build Team are also celebrating two new national awards in 2023.

    The first was on March 10th, when the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) announced their annual Contractor of the Year (CotY) awards in an online presentation. The second award came on April 5th at ActionCoach’s BizX America conference in Nashville TN.

    NARI CotY Awards

    The 2023 National winning project was in the category for Residential Exterior $100,000 to $200,000. The project, an Outdoor Living Space that included a screened porch addition, was designed and built for past clients for their newly purchased home.

    The new covered outdoor space is perfect for the family of four to spend time relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying the gorgeous views of the adjacent and newly constructed backyard patio and pool. Features include full-height screens with sliding doors, beam and shiplap ceiling, gas fireplace, beverage bar with 2 mini fridges and storage, seating space and separate dining area, including a simple but functional outdoor kitchen.

    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 members who demonstrate outstanding design and craftsmanship through their remodeling projects are chosen to be category winners in local, regional and national competitions. Members can nominate their projects thru an online portal for blind judging by industry peers selected by NARI executives.

    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?
    • Was there any innovative use of materials and/or methods of construction used in the project?

    Projects entered into the National CotY competition are eligible for Regional awards among 48 categories in 7 regions nationwide. The National CotY awards are selected from the Regional winners in each category.

    Biz X Awards Presented by ActionCOACH

    For the second time in 3 years, George accepted the award for Best Company Culture on behalf of The Cleary Company. The first win was in 2020. This is also his and the company’s third honor overall from BizX. In 2022 the company also earned Best Community Impact/Corporate Responsibility.

    Company culture is the personality of a company. It defines the environment in which employees work. Company culture includes a variety of elements, including work environment, company mission, values, ethics, expectations, and goals.

    BizX America & ActionCOACH bring together an exciting mix of speakers, business executives and entrepreneurs into an annual conference and networking extravaganza. Attendees acquire powerful, actionable and thought-provoking information to improve their businesses, spark new ideas and move their personal trajectory to the X degree.

    Peg Buehrle (ActionCOACH Columbus), George Cleary ll, George Cleary, Jennifer Wood

    Are you ready to remodel your home? Complete your next project with a Team of professionals focused on peer-recognized design excellence, craftsmanship and industry-leading company culture. Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today by visiting our website!

  • 5 Trends for Your Kitchen That are Here to Stay

    5 Trends for Your Kitchen That are Here to Stay

    Kitchens are the heart of the home and one of the most requested remodeling projects our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, OH completes every year. While the options, designs, and finishes are plentiful, there are some kitchen trends that are enduring and most often desired by our clients.

    Design – As far as space planning, the open-concept kitchen floorplans aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. The open floor plan is still the most requested, with sightlines and entertaining at the top of the list.

    • While colored cabinets are trending now, the “white” kitchen is timeless and here to stay in the Midwest.
    • Create warmth in varying degrees based on timeless color palettes keeping it crisp and clean or light and airy.
    • Installing large windows, skylights or glass doors will maximize the natural light and create a bright airy feeling.

    Islands – They are an essential part of a functional floorplan for those that enjoy cooking, baking and entertaining. They find their way into most of our clients’ design plans. Although sometimes, adding an island isn’t possible, in which case our Team will collaborate to find additional ways to incorporate additional workspace and storage that functions for their lifestyle and family’s needs.

    Double islands have increased in demand over the years and can be incorporated into many open-concept first-floor plans. They give you the luxury of having one island for workspace, sinks, microwaves, and cooktops and another island for additional seating, buffets for entertaining as well as creating extra storage.

    Customization – Kitchens can be very detailed and personal to the homeowner. Different materials and finishes can be personalized to an individual’s taste from appliances and cabinets to paint colors and storage. Selections that meet specific daily needs of you and your family’s lifestyle dominate most of the design plans for our clients.

    • Mixing finishes and materials adds a more personal touch from countertops and backsplashes to fixtures and cabinets.
    • Pantry options that include “working” kitchens or butler’s pantries keep the messes of preparing meals behind closed doors.
    • Range hoods that make a statement can be large and bold or minimalistic. Either style can combine materials and finishes to personalize the space.

    Fixtures & Finishes – Quartz countertops and other “easy care” materials that resist scratches, stains and burns help busy families keep their homes looking fresh. Wood is down-to-earth and creates a warmth that is difficult to match. Whether using it as an accent or statement piece, it adds texture and is timeless.

    Energy-Efficient – Protecting Mother Earth and our natural resources is only gaining more and more attention as climate change dominates the news. The focus will continue to shift to using less energy and water through design-build solutions. Mindful choices like adding reverse water osmosis options cuts down on buying plastic water bottles. Installing dishwashers, sinks and other plumbing that use less water and appliances that use less energy can have a significant impact on our environment. Additionally using sustainable materials are viable and frequently requested by many of our clients.

    Whether you want to hop on the newest kitchen trends, have a specific design in mind, or want to be timeless, our Remodel-Design-Build Team is here to collaborate with you to create your vision for your family’s home. For inspiration visit our Kitchens Portfolio on our website.

    Contact us here to start the conversation. We’re ready to get started on your kitchen remodeling project!

  • Kitchen Remodeling Costs in Columbus, Ohio

    Kitchen Remodeling Costs in Columbus, Ohio

    How much does a Design-Build Kitchen Remodel Cost?

    Calculating the cost of any remodel requires knowing first the design, scope and size of the project and this is especially true for a kitchen remodel.

    • Does your kitchen need to be updated?
    • Would a remove & replace facelift or swapping out all the “pretty stuff” like countertops, hardware and fixtures fit your needs?
    • Does your existing kitchen fit the needs of your family?
    • Do you need more space and function in your kitchen’s layout?
    • Do you want an open concept floorplan with removing or opening up walls?
    • Do you want to expand the footprint of your kitchen by building an addition or repurposing underused spaces?

    To help you get started planning your next kitchen remodeling project, our Design Build Team at The Cleary Company has assembled the following project examples and ballpark budgets. We also recommend reviewing Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs Value report for additional information on building and remodeling costs in Columbus OH.

    Design-Build Open Concept Kitchen Expansion Remodel

    3 Projects – 3 Budgets – 3 Scopes of Work For Kitchen Remodeling

    Luxury or Gourmet Kitchen remodels – Estimated Price Range $180k – $300k+

    kitchen remodeling
    Bexley, OH AFTER
    Bexley, OH BEFORE
    Upper Arlington, OH AFTER
    Upper Arlington, OH BEFORE

    Possible Scope of Work & Finishes:

    • 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

    MID-RANGE – Estimated Price Range: $150k – $200k

    BEFORE
    BEFORE
    BEFORE
    225sf Dublin, OH
    kitchen remodeling
    310sf Dublin, OH
    Pro kitchen remodeling contractors
    152sf Marble Cliff, OH

    Possible Scope of Work & Finishes: 

    • Remove & Replace all cabinets, fixtures & finishes
    • Reorganize layout changes for greater efficiency
    • Remove soffits
    • May include whole or partial removal of one wall plus new drywall and trim
    • Professional-style appliances and upgrades to lighting and electrical
    • Quartz countertops
    • Custom cabinetry including an island
    • Refinish existing or install new flooring–hardwood or tile
    Example of floorplan updates for Marble Cliff, Ohio kitchen remodel

    Refresh or Facelift – Estimated Price Range: $70k – $90k

    Kitchen remodeling expanded footprint

    Possible Scope of Work & Finishes:

    • Updates to existing finishes & fixtures
    • Little to no changes to footprint or layout
    • Plumbing and electrical remains in current locations
    • Reuse some or all of existing cabinetry
    • Or install some new or all new cabinetry
    • Limited finish and accessory choices
    • Mid-level granite or quartz or HD laminate countertops
    • Mid-level appliance package or reuse existing
    • Keep existing drywall and trim and paint only the remodeled area
    • Basic flooring choices- reuse and refinish existing hardwood or install new LVT

    Are you ready to get started on the new kitchen you’ve been dreaming of? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today! Visit our website or call 614-459-4000.

    For more inspiration visit our Kitchens Gallery!

  • 2023 Home Design Trends

    2023 Home Design Trends

    It’s a new year, so that means our Design Team at The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus Ohio is looking at what’s trending in home design. While we love the classics, some trends are worth looking at and incorporating into projects for our clients, especially kitchen and baths. After all, some trends are here to stay!

    The NKBA recently released its 2023 Design Trends Report where they surveyed almost 600 industry members. We’ve combed through the information and summarized it below. So, grab a cup of coffee or tea, settle in and spend a few minutes reading.

    Home Design

    Storage & Functionality are a Must

    • Kitchens and bathrooms are top spaces that need more storage and better function.
    • Remove or open up walls to add more storage and define spaces.
    • Increase the footprint of a kitchen to add space for a larger pantry, beverage bar, second dishwasher or other additional appliances.
    • Larger islands and in some cases two islands, provide better functionality for dining, food prep and homework or work-from-home needs.
    • Increase or rearrange the footprint of a bathroom for a larger shower, more closet space, or even a sitting area.
    • Incorporate Universal Design principles into your new bathroom. Features such as low or zero-threshold showers, benches, grab bars, and wider doorways are a key part of functionality.
    • Keep countertops clear of small appliances. A well-designed pantry can be more than just a place for spices and staples.
    • Select fixtures and finishes that are easy to clean for your updated kitchen and bathrooms. Materials like quartz countertops and panels plus large format tiles limit or eliminate grout and are easy to clean.

    Oh, We Love Some Color

    • Shades of white still dominate, as well as the use of wood tones but color is making it’s way back into kitchens and baths.
    • Greens and blues are perennial top choices for kitchens, but don’t be afraid to dip into other colors on the spectrum.
    • Incorporate bold accent colors like a non-shiny metallic, matte black or brushed gold.

    Be Environmentally Friendly & Connect with Nature

    • Choose products made with sustainable materials and by companies whose practices are gentle or help the Earth.
    • Fixtures and finishes like LED lighting, VOC-free paints and energy-efficient appliances, head the list.
    • Choose more oversized windows and add glass doors to bring views of the outdoors inside.
    • Outdoor living spaces create a connection with your indoor spaces and increase the livable space in your home.

    Let’s Not Forget About Technology

    • Choose technology for your home that increases its function and efficiency.
    • Install motion-controlled lighting and touchless faucets.
    • Choose appliances that are multifunctional and can do “everything,” making life easier.
    • Use mobile devices or voice controls to control appliances, lighting, music and tv’s.
    • Smart or programable controls in bathrooms help with shower and faucet temperatures, heated floors, bidet toilets, mirrors, and lighting.

    As our Design Team works with clients, we see that kitchens and bathrooms continue to evolve into larger, multifunctional spaces. Many people are still working and entertaining at home, and that doesn’t seem to be going away. Make 2023 the year to remodel your home with our Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company!

    Contact us to get started! Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website to schedule a phone call with our Client Relations Coordinator.

  • Choosing Lighting for Your Remodel

    Choosing Lighting for Your Remodel

    Do you need more? How much?

    The Design Team at The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus Ohio is here to help! Through the design phase of planning your remodel, our experienced Designers and Design Consultants will educate and help guide you to make the best lighting decisions for your project. We prefer a layered approach of mixing different lighting types for decorative interest but also for better function.

    Lighting can be a very personal choice as well. Many clients ask us to include more lighting, especially those with older homes because chances are there just isn’t enough of it. Some clients prefer a lot of recessed lighting to brighten up their home while others choose to use them sparingly. Lighting is categorized into four main types.

    Just like each room in your house has its own purpose, so does each type of lighting.

    • Ambient or general lighting provides overall illumination for a room. These can be fixtures such as recessed cans, semi-flush ceiling fixtures or chandeliers.
    • Task lighting provides increased illumination for actions or spaces that require an attention to detail. Like under cabinet lights in a kitchen. Most often it is used along with ambient light. 
    • Accent lighting directs light to focus or highlight a particular area or object. Most common types are sconces, flood, or track.
    • Decorative lighting’s purpose is to make a statement or adding character to a room. Sometimes the fixture itself can be art or a conversation piece!

    Also, don’t forget to consider natural light when planning your remodel. These conversations with our clients about their lighting needs are always illuminating (see what we did there?). Our Design Team is here to help you through every decision. So, what type of lighting works best in each room?

    What types are best for your space?

    Kitchens:

    • Recessed cans or pucks are fixed fixtures that provide overall illumination across the entire room.
    • Task lights like undercabinet LED strips are needed above countertop work areas. Task lighting is also helpful above your range and sink. Pendant lights and chandeliers are the gold standards for island lighting!
    • Accent lighting adds more function but can also add a bit of drama. Think about tape-lights and downlights to light up hidden areas or to feature areas in your kitchen, such as open shelving, or glass-front cabinets.
    Lighting
    This kitchen uses a layered lighting design
    utilizing 3 types ambient, task & accent

    Dining areas:

    • Recessed lighting, chandeliers, and flush-mount all serve well in a dining room. Create overall light with recessed and flush mount lights, and add some drama, mood, and decoration with a chandelier.

    Living rooms/Family rooms/Bars

    • Adaptability is the key here. You’ll want cozy lighting, reading lights, dimmable lights, as well as ambient lighting. These rooms multi-task, so the lighting needs to as well.
    A home bar uses a combination of recessed can lighting (ambient), pendants (task) and pucks (accent).

    Bedrooms and Bathrooms:

    • This is where you get ready for the day, so plan on some well-lit areas within in these rooms. Sconces are a great lighting choice for both spaces. Fixtures that flank mirrors won’t cast unwanted shadows. In the bedroom, sconces that hang above the bed or to the side leave nightstand areas free for your favorite books or photos.
    When used with recessed can lighting in the ceiling, sconces installed on sides of mirrors can help to eliminate shadows in your bathroom.

    Rest assured, our designers will work with you to determine your family’s needs for lighting and help you create the best lighting options for your home.

    Where should you buy lighting for your home remodel?

    Retail lighting options are easy to find in the Columbus, OH area. Our preferred vendor partners are easy to work with, have our clients’ best interests at heart, and make sure to have what we need. And while we prefer to buy from our local vendors, we also know it’s may not always be the best option for your project. Our Team also has a few go-to online specialty lighting retailers.

    Circa Lighting opened a new showroom in 2022! They’ve considered every detail of the lighting selection process from beginning to end to make your experience as seamless as possible. Enjoy the ease of a thoughtfully edited showroom and interactive digital displays that show their complete range of products at full scale. From a one-room refresh to whole home lighting design, their experienced lighting designers are equipped to develop multi-layer lighting plans to optimize the look, feel and function of any space at any budget.

    Northern Lighting has the best selection of indoor and outdoor lighting on the northeast side of Columbus, Ohio. They’ve been serving local builders, remodelers and homeowners since 1973. Their entire showroom is dedicated to lighting and lighting accessories! Located in Westerville, it’s always an exciting visit looking up at all the unique and stunning lighting options. Their staff is filled with experts with a vast knowledge in lighting techniques and design. Our Design-Build Team collaborates with their experienced staff on both residential and commercial projects and relies on them to help solve lighting issues on our most complex projects.

    Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery has lighting for every function, style, and feature. We know that when our clients visit their showroom, they most likely will find what they are looking for. The same happens with our designers. If they have something in mind for a particular project, their associates will find the perfect options. Our connections at Ferguson have the knowledge, friendliness and vast selection of gorgeous lighting options and that is why our designers choose to work with them.

    And the online options are endless! Two that we know our clients have used are Wayfair and Rejuvenation. Wayfair has many budget-friendly items as well as more expensive options, while Rejuvenation offers some cool and interesting styles. We’ve even had clients bring us lighting found from an antique or vintage store.

    Chase Away Winter Blues!

    Our designers have teamed up with Circa Lighting for our January Wine & Design open house. Join us on Tuesday January 31, 2023 at 1400 Grandview Avenue 43212 for a VIP tour with refreshments. For more details visit our blog or RSVP via Evite.

    Lighting can completely transform a room. When we remodel your home, we are transforming how you live and function within those spaces. Lighting brings it all together!

    If you have been illuminated by this article and are ready to begin your remodeling project, contact us! We will show you the light…

  • Project Consultant John Hamlett | NARI UDCP

    Project Consultant John Hamlett | NARI UDCP

    headshot of John Hamlett
    John Hamlett

    Join us in congratulating John! He recently earned a Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) accreditation from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). John joined our Team in 2020 with over 30 years of experience in retail and restaurant design and construction along with a B.S. in Architecture from The Ohio State University.

    Because more of our clients are wanting to live in their homes longer, our Design Team, at The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus Ohio, recognizes that all of our projects should include principles of Universal Design. This not only applies to our clients looking to “age in place” but also to their extended family, caregivers and guests living or visiting with them.

    Q & A with John Hamlett, Universal Design Certified Professional – Project Consultant

    Why did you decide to take the Universal Design test?

    After working on a few projects where the clients were asking us to use Universal Design principles to help them age in place, I wanted to educate myself so that I could better serve these kinds of clients

    How did you prepare for the UDCP test?

    I took an online prep course thru nari.org and had help studying from my NARI-certified colleagues here at The Cleary Company.

    What is your role and responsibilities @ TCC?

    I am a Project Consultant with responsibilities to provide accurate as-built drawings, to assess constructability issues, produce construction/permit drawings and to see projects through the permitting process.

    Why did you choose to pivot your career into remodeling?

    After many years in retail architecture, I wanted to have a chance to work on projects that affect people at a more personal level.

    How has TCC supported your growth, both personally and professionally?

    The Cleary Company supports every employee to seek growth. They provide both time and finances for us to pursue continuing education, professional certifications and personal growth.

    What do you believe is the hidden gem of working for TCC?

    The office is very well designed and a great environment to work in.

    What do you enjoy the most about working for TCC?

    The quality of the people. George takes his time in the hiring process to assure that the people he brings on are the right fit.

    What is NARI Certification?

    Certified professionals represent an elite group of industry experts who possess extensive technical and management skills. These skills set them apart as capable remodeling professionals. Standards and exam questions are developed by leading remodeling experts who are well-versed in technical and management best practices for the remodeling industry.

    Why our Team values industry certifications?

    As a trusted Remodel-Design-Build firm in Columbus, Ohio, we believe continuing education is important and the development of Our Team is a responsibility we have to our clients. From formal CEU classes administered by our industry partners to informal Lunch-n-Learns hosted by our vendors, throughout each year, our Team regularly participates in webinars and live presentations to improve our knowledge of home remodeling.

    Not to mention, data suggests 80% of consumers would choose a remodeling professional who is certified over one who is not.

    Want to know more about what Universal Design is? Click here to read our blog post on the subject!

    Universal Design
  • Kitchen Appliances Repair vs Replace

    Kitchen Appliances Repair vs Replace

    It’s that sinking feeling—you walk into the kitchen and the floor is wet because there is a leak coming from the refrigerator or dishwasher. You turn on the oven and nothing happens. Drying clothes that don’t get dry? You get the idea—the appliances aren’t working. Now what? Should you replace it or repair it?

    As your Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company, we replace many appliances for our clients. But sometimes we have clients who want to keep one or more of their appliances. This isn’t usually a problem, especially if we know they are still in good shape. But if they may be replacing it 3-5 years after their remodel, we know it will take extra planning.

    So what to do when an appliance fails? If it’s an easy fix, there’s usually no question about repairing it. But a bigger issue is one to stop and think about. What’s worth repairing and what’s worth replacing and how do you know?

    Recently we read a report from House Method and found some great answers. House Method provides expert research on home service providers. Their reviews cover home warranty, pest control, and lawn service companies. They are a comprehensive source for home services research. Read the full report here.

    Key Facts to Consider

    • Over the last year, the inflation rate of appliance costs has risen an average of 7.8%.
    • Typical households spent, on average, at least $354 per year on major appliances in 2022, compared to $214 in 2013.
    • Most of us will need to have an appliance repaired every couple of years.
    • Supply change issues continue to make it harder to get new appliances and, in some cases, replacement parts.
    • Appliance prices continue to increase. (You know this if you’ve been looking)
    • There’s more wear and tear on our appliances due to a year of more of work and school from home!

    Repair or Replace

    A study from the United States Public Interest Research Group notes that the average family could save $330 per year by repairing appliances, instead of replacing them. Weigh the pros and cons of the value, the life span, and the cost for repair of the appliance as opposed to replacing it. Also, consider the following—

    • Repair costs include service fees and replacement costs but can save money since you aren’t buying a new appliance.
    • Repairs generate less waste in a landfill.
    • A home warranty (a service contract that can be purchased) extends the coverage of appliances past the manufacturer’s warranty.
    • Most appliances last for 5-7 years, with repairs every 2-3 years (on average).
    • Replacing might be the best option if you want new features, better efficiency, and lower repair costs.

    Review the chart below to help you decide if you want to replace or repair.

    House Method—How Much Americans Spend on Home Appliances, July 2022

    Of course, sometimes a repair isn’t worth it if the problem is too big or expensive, parts aren’t available, or you can’t find someone to do the work!

    Tips to Extend the Life Span of Your Appliances

    Regular care & maintenance can save you money and expensive repairs down the line.

    • Clean the clothes dryer lint trap after every use.
    • Empty or rinse the dishwasher filter every few months.
    • Microwaves and ovens work best when cleaned.
    • Keep vents clear from debris and clean filters as needed.
    • Empty the refrigerator and freezer occasionally to get rid of unwanted food and clean the shelves.
    • Vinegar and baking soda are your friends. Do a website search for the best ways to use them on your appliances. We like the cleaning tips on this website.

    Repair or replace? Ultimately it will come down to several factors—age, cost, what the repair entails, energy efficiency and what your needs are.

    Need of a remodel? Give us a call at 614-459-4000. We’d love to design and build your vision for your home.