Tag: Columbus Home Remodeling

Screened Porch Addition | Hilliard, OH

Kristin and Giovanni love being outside. Their home had a deck out back, but between the weather, the sun, and the bugs, they knew it was time to visualize something different. They wanted a space that they could utilize with more livability. The plan? Replacing the existing deck with a screened-in porch addition.

BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER – Exterior

AFTER – Interior

Q & A with Kristin & Giovanni — Hilliard, OH

What was the goal for your porch addition remodel?

We love to be outside, but also want to be protected from some of the elements—bugs, heat, and the rain.

What is your favorite aspect of your remodeled space?

It really accomplished what we wanted. We love that we can raise the windows up, sit down, and enjoy the breeze and the sunshine, but not be hot or swatting away the bugs.

What advice would you offer to someone who is thinking of remodeling their home?

1—Meet with different companies and understand what’s out there. Try to understand the different ideas presented by the various companies.

2—Don’t just choose the company with the best price. Choose the company that you have a good connection with and that can bring your project to reality.

3—Envision yourself in the space, walk through it, and plan it. Know how you will use it and how it will work for you. We spent a good deal of time thinking about how we wanted to use the space and what would work for us.

The Cleary Company Remodel Difference

Why did you choose The Cleary Company to complete your remodeling project?

We interviewed several other companies. We liked everyone we met at The Cleary Company and felt they were a good match for us and our project. They saw what our vision was going to be. Also, we had researched the Eze Breeze product and wanted to use it. We brought it to The Cleary Company as part of the plan. They hadn’t used it before but were excited to try it out with us.

What was your favorite part of working with The Cleary Company and why?

The open dialogue we had throughout the project set us at ease. We really felt listened to and heard. After the project was finished, they came through and asked us how everything went, and what could they have done better or differently. The constant open communication was a strong indicator of their commitment to their clients.

Who from our Team stood out & how did they exceed your expectations? We liked working with Aaron—we talked with him from start to finish. We felt we could go to him at any point and have an open dialogue.

Just for Fun!

If you were asked to explain in one word why you choose to do business with The Cleary Company, what would it be?

Quality. Communication. (We each chose a word!)

Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

Yes!

Want to Learn More?

If you have a project you are thinking about, reach out to us. As you read, these clients knew one of the products they wanted to use in their porch addition and we collaborated to create a plan and make it work. After all, you become family when you work with us! Want open communication and collaboration with your home remodeler?

Visit our website to learn more about our Remodel-Design-Build process and contact us to discuss your remodeling project.

September 27, 2022
Client Profile: Basement Remodel in Powell, OH
When Kelly and Asvin contacted us in June of 2020 their basement was only halfway finished with an entertainment space and half bath. They and their three small children enjoyed hanging out there, but the unfinished side was empty and ready to be overhauled into livable space.

They had big ideas for their unfinished basement and they did their research online. After searching for “home remodeling Columbus, Ohio” and landing on our website, they liked our portfolio and contacted our Team to start collaborating on new spaces for their family. Now they feel that the whole house is what they dreamed it would be!

Q & A with Kelly & Asvin Powell, OH

What was the goal for your basement remodel?

To create more functional and livable space for our three small children and extended family who come to visit. Expanding the existing half-bath into a full bath with a shower, was also important since there will be family staying in the new bedrooms. In addition, as our kids get older, they may want to move into one of the basement bedrooms. Finally, we wanted consistency within our home, as the other half of the basement was already finished. Now the whole basement is completed.

What features of your remodeled space are your favorites?

I really like that we were able to maintain a good deal of light with the addition of the egress windows. The pocket door on the bathroom that opens to the bigger bedroom is great since it saves space in both the bedroom and bathroom! The colors that our designer, Katie, helped us pick out are light earth tones, which help bring a good deal of light into the space. We were able to create a bonus area with a built-in desk in one of the bedrooms, which is perfect for guests and our kids as a place to get away and get homework done.

What advice would you offer to someone who is remodeling their home?
- The biggest thing is be comfortable with who you hire.
- Don’t be swayed by a design or idea that doesn’t resonate with you.
- Financially it’s a big investment and you want to have your voice heard.
- Be comfortable with voicing your opinion throughout the project and you will be happy with the end result. I was able to have open dialogue anytime I was unsure of an idea or plan and we were always able to come to a solution we were all happy with.
- The Cleary Company did an excellent job involving us during the process of the project. Our opinions were always heard and acknowledged.
The Cleary Company Remodel Difference

Why did you choose The Cleary Company to complete your remodeling project?

I did some online searches to begin the process. The Cleary Company’s finished projects that we saw on their website really resonated with us. We did meet with a few other companies, but they just didn’t meet our expectations or grasp the aesthetic we wanted for this project. When we met with The Cleary Company, it just clicked. They spent the time to get to know us and understand our expectations and preferences. We really liked the time they spent with us.

We connected with the team that we worked with. Robert was great at explaining the process, timeline, and realistic expectations of the cost. We felt extremely comfortable with The Cleary Company from the beginning. The end result is a reflection of the work we were expecting.

What was your favorite part of working with The Cleary Company?

I really liked all of the crew that came in. This project took place right in the middle of COVID. Everyone was very respectful of the fact we had a baby and small children and wore masks. We work in healthcare and needed minimum exposure. There was great communication and we knew when people would be there. Every day when I went down into the basement, it was clean. You wouldn’t have known they had worked that day as there was no dust or fumes. We could continue to live in our house!

Was there a TCC team member(s) who stood out and if yes, how did they exceed your expectations?

Everyone was always attentive. Our Lead Carpenter went above and beyond building our custom shelves. Katie, our Designer, was very receptive to our needs. Little things that the Team did were really special. The guys working on the basement even bought a toy tool kit for our boys. The boys loved learning from them and knew everyone’s names that worked on our project. They went above and beyond!

Just for Fun!

If you were asked to explain in one word why you choose to do business with The Cleary Company, what would it be?

Trustworthy! We trusted them with our home and never felt led astray.

Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

Yes, I definitely would and actually have already recommended them!

Want to Learn More?

Check out the before & after photos of this basement remodel in Powell, Ohio on our Houzz profile.

Working with our clients is like working with family. We work hard to get to know you through collaboration to design and build a home that works for you. We are honored to be part of our clients’ lives, during the remodel and beyond!

Contact us today to discuss your remodeling project!
July 29, 2022
Designing for Accessibility in Your Home Remodel
There are many reasons why you may be ready for a remodel. Do your dated rooms feel old and tired? Does your home function for your current lifestyle? Or maybe you’d like to create a more accessible home to accommodate different life stages and abilities.

Our Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio takes our remodeling designs seriously and wants to be sure they are accessible for all. We collaborate with our clients to create a design plan that considers these and other accessibility challenges in their home.

3 Types of Accessibility Issues to Consider:
- Visual — Use color to highlight or complement what is already visible but also ensure sufficient contrast. Paint door frames and doors a lighter color than the walls.
- Motor/Mobility — Choose solid surface floors throughout like wood, tile or vinyl and minimize the number of transitions between materials. Eliminate or reduce the use of rugs or carpets. Wider hallways, doorways and traffic flow for accommodating wheelchairs, walkers, etc.
- Auditory — Creating a more open concept floor plan allows for unobstructed sight lines for easier communication. The arrangement of the room can also make a significant difference for those who use lipreading or sign language. Circular or horseshoe seating layouts work best.
Design Features to Consider:
- Single story living
- Limited steps inside and outside
- Wider hallways and entryways
- Open floor plans
- Low maintenance exterior and landscape
- Varying height countertops
- Easy-to-reach work and storage areas in the kitchen and bathrooms
- Walk-in or zero-entry showers
Terminology used for Accessibility in Home Design

Living in Place or Aging in Place — Both used interchangeably have become more popular as people want to stay in their homes longer. This means the home needs to be safe, healthy, and comfortable for everyone in the household, no matter their age or accessibility. Are there hazards, barriers, or floor plan issues that need to be rectified to create a design that all people can use, especially those with memory, cognitive or physical challenges?

Universal Design — Sometimes used interchangeably with the previous two terms. This approach to home design is to meet the needs of everyone. Regardless of age, size, ability or accessibility, a design is created, understood, and used by everyone, as much as possible. Read more about Universal Design on our blog.

An excellent example of such design exists right here in Columbus! This 3,500sf ranch home was built in 2009. It is not only the private residence of Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D and her husband, Mark Leder but also a one-of-a-kind national demonstration home called the Universal Design Living Laboratory. Our Team had the privilege of touring this amazing home in 2015. We appreciate our conversations with Rosemarie, whose personal work in Universal Design has been instrumental in educating home industry professionals.

Universal Design Living Laboratory – 6141 Clark State Road, Columbus, Ohio 43230

ADA Compliant — This term refers to actual code compliance rules included in the American Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design. An ADA-compliant home follows these codes entirely.

Visit-ability — This one is interesting because it isn’t so much about who lives in the home, but who is visiting. How will they navigate throughout your home if they are wheelchair-bound or have other mobility issues?

Areas to consider:
- Entrances and exits of the home
- Bathroom accessibility
- Bedroom access for those who can’t use stairs
- Hallways should be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters
Adaptable Design — This realizes an important middle-ground area in the designing of homes, putting it somewhere between full accessibility and a home filled with accessibility challenges. Creating a remodeled home that can easily be adapted to accommodate changing needs can save money over time if it is thought of now.

Are there products or design elements that can be put in place now, that can be used later? You may not want a walk-in shower now, but will it be needed down the road? Does the structure behind the walls need to allow for grab bars to be added beside a toilet or in a shower? Does the island have an area that is lower, allowing a wheelchair to be rolled up to it?

NARI UDCP – Universal Design Certified Professional

The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, Ohio is proud to have several Team members who’ve earned accreditation in Universal Design from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry!

Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP – Design Manager

Katie Florjancic, UDCP – Designer

Emily Perebzak, UDCP – Designer

Shannon Tannehill, UDCP – Design Consultant

The UDCP program addresses the key concepts of Universal Design as applied to residential remodeling:
- Conducting client needs assessments
- Universal design applications used in residential remodeling
- Construction techniques used to implement universal design to a remodeling project
- Plumbing and electrical systems unique to universal design
- Differences between model building codes and ones described in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
No matter what accessibility, aging challenges or planning for the future you might be doing now — our Design Team is here to collaborate with you to create the vision you need for your home.

Ready for a Home Remodel?

Get started today by calling our Client Relations Coordinator @ 614-459-4000 or by visiting our website.
July 18, 2022
Kitchen Remodel + More in New Albany OH

Project Spotlight: The layout of this suburban home’s kitchen and family room (built in 2004) was no longer working for the owners, a busy family of four with two teenagers. The Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company created a new open concept floor plan that is more functional and a better fit for their lifestyle.

The original layout of the kitchen, a large u-shape, had disconnected workspaces with small sections of countertops. The clients disliked the location of the cooktop on the undersized island. A small pass-thru window into the family room afforded some connection to the kitchen but the homeowners desired a more open concept design. Along with the kitchen remodel, upgrades were also made to the existing family room, mainly the fireplace and staircase.

As Built & Demo Plan

Kitchen workspace – BEFORE

Kitchen Eating Area – BEFORE

Stairs & Railing – BEFORE

Kitchen wall between family room – BEFORE

Family room wall between kitchen – BEFORE

Design-Build Plans Solve Issues

Removing the wall between the kitchen and family room not only opened up both of the spaces but also brought more natural light into the kitchen. The new kitchen layout has more continuous countertop workspaces but also features a much larger island with storage and seating for four. All the appliances were relocated for workspace efficiency and upgraded to larger models with more features including a new gas range. An appliance “garage” contains a coffee-tea bar and microwave that can be hidden when not in use.

Natural white oak wood accents throughout the new spaces like the range hood, pantry doors and fireplace mantles.

New Floorplan

AFTER PHOTOS – Kitchen

Along with the remodel of the kitchen, the family room also received significant upgrades. The open staircase to the second floor was brought to new life with paint colors that pull accent colors from the kitchen. The two-sided fireplace features the same mantle, facade and hearth in the family room and the kitchen which marries the two spaces nicely.

AFTER PHOTOS – Family Room

Watch this Video Tour!

To learn more about this project, read the magazine article featured on the cover of HouseTrends!

July 5, 2022
First Floor Remodel & More
Lindsey and Richard bought their 100-year-old Bexley home nine years ago, with the intention to remodel it over time. In 2018, they started the process, talked with another company, and received some estimates. Thinking they knew what the budget could be for what they wanted, they soon realized HGTV was not an accurate representation of their desired plan. They decided to think about it, and then COVID-19 hit. With Richard home more, they both realized that the renovation had to happen to make their home work for their family. The rest is history…

Q & A with Lindsey & Richard Bexley, OH

What was the goal for your remodel?

Our house was a mess! We needed better flow, more space, and more storage. It needed updated and brought into this century. The entire first floor was a priority, as was the upstairs primary bathroom. And we found out after demolition began, that our home was also unsafe!

An addition from the 90’s wasn’t structurally sound so they installed a beam to make it safe. Also, the entire electrical system was installed to replace all the original knob and tube.

What feature of your remodeled spaces are your favorite?

The closets (pantry & bedroom) are a favorite—I just love them! The new kitchen brings a lot to our life as a family. We have sightlines for every area and now it’s fun to entertain. Richard loves our primary bath. Our old one was so bad I refused to use it. It’s nice that we can both enjoy this gorgeous primary en suite now.

What advice would you offer to someone who is thinking of remodeling their home?
- Be ready for surprises!
- Know what realistic budgets are. We had no idea what we were getting into with our house due to its age and unexpected issues.
- Roll with the changes, be flexible, and be prepared.
Take a Tour of this Remodel!

The Cleary Company Remodel Difference

Why did you choose The Cleary Company for your remodeling projects?

When we were ready to begin the process, we spoke with three companies. The Cleary Company was the only one that asked us about our lives, what we wanted out of a remodel, whether we entertained a lot and whether we wanted it formal or informal. Robert noticed things other companies didn’t see, like our window air conditioning units in the 2^nd floor windows. Even with a new HVAC system installed two years ago, the house was still hot in the summer and cold in winter. Robert said they could fix that. That comment helped to seal the deal for us!

The extra level of getting to know us and who we are was a game-changer for us. The Cleary Company took the time to listen and get to know us, making our experience with them more personal. Now we have a dual-zone HVAC air system that we are in love with, and the home is the correct temperature year-round. We don’t think we would have gotten that, along with all of the room renovations, with another company.

What was your favorite part of working with The Cleary Company?

I really liked the design process and picking out the materials and items. I found it to be really fun, even though I know some people might find it overwhelming. Our Designer took the time to get to know us well enough that our selection meetings were a breeze. All of the designs are aligned with our lifestyle and preferences.

Just for Fun!

If you were asked to explain in one word why you choose to do business with The Cleary Company, what would it be?

Clarity! From day one everything was clear and spelled out for us.

Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

Yep-absolutely. Everyone we had contact with was great! We have a meeting with Robert soon to get started on our next project.

Want to Learn More?

Working with our clients is like working with family. We work hard to get to know you through collaboration to design and build a home that works for you. We are honored to be part of our clients’ lives, during the remodel and beyond!

Contact us today to discuss your remodeling project!
June 27, 2022
Top 5 Bathroom Products for Your Remodel
Everyone has a Top 5 list, right? Top 5 restaurants, books, places to vacation, breweries, sports teams, etc. Just like you, our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company, in Columbus, OH, has Top 5 lists. We’re sharing ours for bathroom products!

This Top 5 list highlights some of the tried-and-true go-to items favored by the collaborative relationship between our Design Team and clients. We enjoy being creative, thinking outside of the box, and making our clients’ visions come to life.

Our Top 5 Bathroom Products…in no particular order

Bathroom Addition in Attic Suite – Bexley OH
1. Frameless Shower—The options for showers are endless but we prefer the custom glass shower enclosures. Aesthetically frameless showers create unobstructed views with no bulky frames and complement almost any design style. Our clients like them for easier maintenance! Since the glass makes direct contact with tile or porcelain panel, it eliminates the build-up in the metal track of its framed counterpart.
2. Bidet Toilet Seat—This product can be added on to your existing or new toilet! Kohler has a variety of styles and options to choose from. Although used widely in European and Asian countries bidets are not as commonly used in the United States. The benefits of having a bidet are not only personal but environmental! Cleansing with water can be a cleaner, more refreshing alternative to toilet paper alone, plus potentially limit germ spread, and allow you to use less or completely eliminate the use of toilet paper.
3. Lighted Mirror—Backlit and lighted mirrors are stunning, and they can give any area a modern, sophisticated vibe. Both will provide enough lighting for grooming by illuminating the face with a diffuse, even light. LED lights, rather than incandescent lights, are used in most backlit mirrors. As a result, they will consume less energy and last a long time. Robern is our favorite brand!
4. Cambria Quartz—Where do we even begin? No matter what look our clients want, Cambria quartz products will make a splash. We’ve installed many Cambria bathroom countertops and benches over the years and when they launched their wall cladding, we couldn’t wait to install it on shower walls! Our clients love that they are hygienic, grout-free and low maintenance.
5. Shower Niche—Prefabricated and custom niches from Schluter are a hit with everyone! Designers like them because they’re easily adaptable to their tile designs. Our Production Team trusts their Kerdi-Board for waterproofing and vapor barrier management. And our clients like the additional storage in their showers.
Custom Tile Shower – Hilliard OH

Shop for These Products!

When you hire Our Remodel-Design-Build Team, we’ll collaborate with you to create a bathroom that works for your lifestyle. We use the best materials from the best suppliers in the industry!

Our preferred vendors include Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, Midwest Quartz, Carr Supply, Custom Elite Glass, and Hamilton Parker. These companies provide us with the best service, quality products, and attention to detail.

Contact us today to get started on your next bathroom remodel!
June 27, 2022
Remodel Right – Your Home Deserves It!
The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build Columbus OH knows that beginning a home remodeling project might feel overwhelming, but when you work with the right company it should be a TEAM effort! We aim to take the uncertainty out of your home renovation. With our experience and expertise, we can help make any project seem less daunting. Our Design-Build Team shares some home remodeling tips to help guide and prepare you through your next remodel.

Planning a Design-Build Remodel? So where do you start?

Do your research

Drive around your neighborhood and see who’s working in the area. Ask neighbors, family and friends for referrals. Once you have a list of several companies visit their websites, and narrow your list to those you want to contact.

Hire a professional

Certifications and memberships in local & national trade organizations show that a remodeler invests in continuing education and earns positive customer references. When hiring a professional, it is most important to find a remodeler you can trust and are comfortable communicating with.

Visit a job site

Ask for references and contact them. See what a project in construction looks like. The best remodelers maintain clean & organized work sites and welcome your visit.

Remember the big picture

Be honest and upfront with your desires and expectations. A good design-build home remodeling company’s goal is to produce a product that goes beyond the client’s expectations. They can only accomplish this with your input.

Lifecycle of a Design-Build Home Remodel

Development & Design

Proper planning can help keep your home remodel project on schedule and on budget. The Cleary Company has a thorough Team approach that guides you through each step and decision. It’s a fun, collaborative process!

First, we identify what it is you want to accomplish.
- Do you want or need to add more space?
- Or do you simply want a new floorplan within the existing footprint?
We will help you decide whether it makes more sense to reuse existing space or build an addition to meet your needs. Let’s explore all your options!

Second, we can help you establish a realistic remodeling budget by discussing the investment range you’re comfortable committing to. Through our Design Agreement phase, we’ll collaborate with you on the development and design.

Your Project Developer and Design Consultant can help determine if what you want is in line with the amount of money you want to invest. The goal is to create a functional design that meets your needs and that enhances the look and style of your home.

Pre-Construction Planning

After you sign a construction contract with The Cleary Company you’ll need to allow time for your project’s construction documents to be prepared. Our Team will convert the preliminary designs into detailed drawings specific to your local building and zoning code requirements. They will include calculations and specific details necessary to acquire building permits.

Permit plans typically consist of a site plan, floor plan, foundation plan, elevations, sections, product and material selections, and detailed notes to provide clear communication for a successful project.

Phases of Construction

Building your project is typically the longest part and toughest part of your remodel. The visual below is a simplified version of what happens in your home. For a more detailed description of these phases read our Renovation Lifecycle – Construction blog post.

A fun visual we post on our jobsites!

Home Stretch

Although the details of your remodeling project will be unique to you and your home, there will be several phases from demo to completion you can expect; demolition, mechanicals, and inspections followed by a time when the basics, from walls to wiring, are rebuilt or upgraded as needed and then more inspections. The home stretch begins with the installations of cabinets, appliances, etc. and finally paint, hardware, and other finishing touches will be put in place.

We hope you choose to experience your next remodeling project the way it should be done RIGHT. Contact our Remodel-Design-Build Team today to get started!
June 14, 2022
Patio & Deck Season is here!
Are You Ready?

It’s about that time—to fire up the grill and firepit, toast a glass with friends, and while away the evenings and weekends on your patio or deck. Is your deck the livable space you want it to be? Does it need a refresh with some cool appliances and furniture? Or maybe it’s time for a new deck or patio. No matter where you are in your deck/patio dream, what you are envisioning can happen.

Our Design Team at The Cleary Company Design-Build-Remodel in Columbus, Ohio has gathered some of their best ideas to help you create the deck or patio you want for your backyard. And remember, our Team is here to help you create the outdoor living space you want for your home!

Over the past few years, our outdoor living spaces have evolved into everyday use, not just a place to grill on the weekends and hang out with friends. It’s additional living space, an office, a homework area, an area for family gatherings and relaxing—all on a daily basis.

Turn your patio or deck into a haven with these innovative ideas from building to decorating.

Outdoor Living Room

Your patio or deck should be treated as another room of your house. This begs the question— how are you going to use it? Create a seating area, a dining area, a place to cook, an office area, a kids’ play space, and more. Comfy weatherproof couches and chairs, a dining table, blankets, pillows, ambient lighting, water features, and storage will help you define and use the spaces on your patio or deck.

Furniture features

The furniture you choose creates the look and feel you want for your outdoor living. You’ll want it to be comfortable, stylish and durable—and as weatherproof as possible. On a deck or patio, furniture has to stand up to wind, rain, sun, changes in temperature, and how it can be cleaned.
- Many materials are used for outdoor furniture, all with their own pros and cons. Know your environment and the impact it has on the furniture as well as how much wear and tear it can take (we see you kids).
  - Wood furniture is easy to work with and looks beautiful. Softer woods don’t hold up as well to the elements over time, while hardwoods are more weather resistant. We love the information about the various types of wood furniture found on this blog from Décor Outdoor.
  - Metal is very durable and works well for side tables, coffee tables and chairs & couches covered with cushions. Metal can rust and might be harder to move if stored inside during the winter.
- Be sustainable with recycled plastic outdoor furniture, with brands like Polywood , Comfort Craft and Luxcraft, or Sunbrella), or eco-friendly reclaimed wood, rattan, wicker and bamboo.
- Don’t forget to have small tables available for drinks, electronics, and plates.
Bring in Color

Earthy, calm, and neutral or bold, bright, and colorful? Someplace in between? Pillows, cushions, outdoor rugs, planters, accent chairs with pops of color, and botanical prints are just a few ways to facilitate some color. This is a fun way to let the personality of your home shine through.

Lighting

You don’t just use your deck or patio during the day. Evenings are meant for neighborhood fun, with the kids running around and the adults hanging by the fire table, chilling with a cold one. Keep the evening going with a bit of illumination. Don’t let the fun stop just because it’s dark.
- Install LED strip lighting along the deck to create safety points
- Place solar lights to light up pathways, landscape borders and decks
- String bulb lights under the pergola or across the deck for some ambiance
- Torches and candles create mood lighting and help with bug control (citronella is the go-to scent)
Control those temps

Right, we get it—we are outside and while we can’t control the weather, we can control aspects of the temperature on our patios when it’s really hot or if it’s a chilly evening.

We can use these great options!
- Overhead heating lamps
- Firepit tables or fire pits, using gas, propane or wood
- Ceiling fans
- Outdoor evaporative coolers (aka, swamp coolers)
All of these can cool us down and warm us up, keeping us outside longer! And who doesn’t want that?

Summer Shade

During a sweltering summer day, shade is a necessity. If you’re not blessed with a yard filled with mature trees, there are other ways you can create shade.
- A pergola provides dappled shade
- Part of your patio can have some type of roofing structure
- Oversized umbrellas, covering tables, chairs or part of the patio, create pockets of shade
Go Green with Plants

A deck or patio immediately feels comfortable and homey with plants. Border plants surrounding the area create areas of privacy, as well as visual interest.

Perennials, succulents, flowering baskets, herb container gardens, and vertical gardens are fun ways to provide pops of color and natural beauty. You’ll want to spend all your time outdoors when you bring flowers and foliage into the space.

Cook in an Outdoor Kitchen

Depending on the kind of cook you are will determine what type of outdoor kitchen you want. Do you just want to chill, entertain while grilling, or create a whole new kitchen for cooking outside?

Your kitchen could include…
- A grill—either coal or propane
- A mini-fridge for condiments, drinks and prep items
- A pizza oven
- A sink for washing hands and quick clean-ups
- Bar space, with a kegerator, wine fridge, and drawers for mixologist items
- Granite or concrete countertops that will hold up to the weather
- Storage
This article from BBQGuys lists some of the top-rated appliances and equipment for your outdoor kitchen—check out the bar centers! A built-in trash container saves you trips to the garbage can and a dishwasher might just be a game-changer!

Outdoor Office

Are you still working from home? Create an area of your porch, patio, or deck to allow you to spend time outside while working. That Zoom background will be the envy of others!

Are you ready to make some changes?

Your patio or deck can be more than just an occasionally used part of your home. It can be your oasis, the place you come home to and don’t want to leave. Reach out to us at 614-459-4000 if we can help you remodel your home and give you the oasis you deserve. And keep the fire going—we will be there soon to roast some marshmallows!
April 27, 2022
Home Addition & Remodel | Upper Arlington, OH

Project Spotlight – An extensive remodel to a modest ranch home in Upper Arlington Ohio. Our clients needed additional living space and more bedrooms. The Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus Ohio created a new floorplan.

A second story addition accommodates 2 bedrooms and the full bath from the main level as well as a new guest bedroom and full bathroom. A sunroom addition expands the footprint of the 1st floor and brings in warm southern sunlight.

Relocating the bedrooms and a bathroom plus removing several walls open up the first floor. The new open concept plan creates a more functional layout for entertaining and allows the kitchen to be the center of this busy family’s daily activities.

As-Built drawings for client’s ranch home in Upper Arlington Ohio. Bedroom 3, the hall closets and the full bath will move to the new 2nd-floor addition. Bedroom 2 is converted into a den and powder room. The new open concept 1st-floor plan will allow space for a larger kitchen and family room.

Proposed design & construction plan. 1st floor remodel in Upper Arlington Ohio. Removing walls for a new open concept floorplan allows the kitchen to be the center of this busy family’s daily activities.

The addition of a 2nd floor on an existing ranch home in Upper Arlington Ohio accommodates 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. Not only do the clients gain living space on the first floor but they are also able to add an additional bathroom and bedroom.

Rendering of new 1st-floor layout. View looking from the family room into the dining room and new sunroom addition. Also notice the new stairs leading to the new addition.

Photos of new interior living spaces.

See more photos in the project album on our Houzz profile. Or take a tour by watching these videos! First floor remodel + sunroom addition & 2nd story addition.

April 5, 2022
28 Years of Building Relationships & Remodeling

George Cleary, a native of Columbus, Ohio and 1984 graduate of Bishop Watterson High School, founded The Cleary Company in April 1994. With $10,000, a computer, a truck, some tools along with his buddies as labor, he used his experience in remodeling sales and his reputation in the community to secure jobs as a general contractor.

“The thing I love most is being part of the emotion of a remodeling project. Translating a customer’s vision into a design and then building their dream is the best part of what we do. This coupled with working with great friends makes what I do so rewarding.”

George’s Top 4 Favorite Client & Projects

“When I was asked to list my favorite projects, I found it was very hard. They are weaved in relationships more so than projects. I cherish that I have lifelong friendships with so many of the clients who hire our Team!”

Number 1, of course, is his first client! “Luke and Gail were confident enough to trust me with not only The Cleary Company’s very first job but a project that in today’s dollars would cost $150K+ to build.” They eventually sold that home in Upper Arlington, Ohio but guess who they called to remodel their next home and most recently again for their retirement home in Westerville, Ohio? George! Read more about their projects and George’s relationship with them on our blog.

Second, of his favorites is another longtime client, whose home we’re currently working on, is Georgeann in Bexley, Ohio. “She reminds me of my mom, always smiling and doing whatever she can to make you comfortable.” Starting with new windows in 2006, The Cleary Company has completed over 6 remodeling projects in her home and currently are designing another! Click here to see the 3 bathrooms we remodeled for her in 2014. To view her 2011 kitchen remodel click here.

“Another favorite is the custom home we built for Kate, a dear friend of my wife Cathy and my family.” After months of design, development and estimating for an extensive addition and whole remodel to a modest ranch in Upper Arlington, OH, we all came to the same conclusion. The better value for her project was to tear down the entire house and rebuild the foundation. Building a new foundation allowed us to better position the home on the lot as well as create a new dry basement with taller ceilings. Fun Fact ~ Project Manager Rob Lindeboom was the previous owner and sold this home to Kate years before she hired The Cleary Company. Read more about this project on our blog!

Although he could go on to list many more George’s final favorite clients are Julie & Garth. The Cleary Company has completed 7 projects for them over the last 10 years! In 2011 they started with updating the millwork and doors, then came the kitchen, 2 bathrooms, a basement and a new sunroom. Tour their 1st-floor addition in this video. The addition included enlarging the sunroom plus building a new master suite, laundry room and mudroom. This project will allow them to age-in-place in their beloved home. “I see them several days a week at the gym and they remind me how they love their home. You can’t get better than that!” Fun Fact ~ George was the altar boy at their wedding when he was in middle school!

George attributes his success to his honesty, integrity and his ability to build such a wonderful team. He’s happy to be part of enhancing properties in the neighborhoods where he lives and works. To learn more about George read our blog!

April 1, 2022