Tag: design build remodeling

Insights from Designer Shannon Tannehill

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

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

Interior Color Trends

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

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

Upward by Sherwin Williams

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

Blue Nova by Benjamin Moore

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

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

Peach Fuzz from Pantone

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

Exterior Color Trends

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

January 8, 2024
Primary Bathroom Remodel + More | Dublin OH

Project Spotlight: Remodel-Design-Build project upgraded and refreshed several spaces in our client’s home to reflect her sophisticated elegant style. The scope of work included removing all of the builder-grade fixtures and finishes. New stylish plumbing, lighting and accessories were installed that reflect the homeowner’s lifestyle and are easy to clean and maintain.

Before Photos

The Plan

The footprint of the primary bathroom remained unchanged. The built-in garden tub was removed and replaced with the slimmer freestanding soaking tub. Chevron mosaic 12×15 matte porcelain tile from MSI was used on the floor. It’s lighter and brighter than the existing dated-looking tan 12×12 limestone style.

Below the custom vanity selections include Kohler lighting, mirrors and accessories. Personalized storage solutions include a full-height linen tower with adjustable shelves and a tiered base pullout organizer. The cabinet hardware used is Amerock Glacio pulls which compliment the lighting and accessories.

Shaker-style cabinets are painted in Sherwin Williams Jasper Stone SW9133. The soft green is also used on the floating shelves above the soaker tub.

Additional updates include upgrades to the existing powder room and the great room fireplace. Colors and finishes selected for the primary bathroom are subtle and calming creating a personal private escape, however contrasting are the bold, colorful, stylish selections chosen for the powder room and fireplace.

After

Featured products include Kohler plumbing, mirrors and accessories, Calacatta Miraggio quartz countertops and Sherwin Williams paint. New barn-style frosted glass closet doors were installed to conceal the walk-in closet and updated laundry room. Additionally, the powder room chandelier and wallpaper add sophisticated bling for guests.

Walk through the new spaces by watching the video below!

Need a Bathroom Remodel?

Your bathroom is your personal private space to escape from day-to-day activity and stress. Everyone wants a beautiful functional space to recharge. Are you looking for bathroom remodeling costs? Want to know the difference between a mid-range and upscale scale bathroom remodel? Ready to learn more about what is happening in bathroom remodeling in Columbus, OH? Our Bathrooms Inspirations publication provides informative details and images to inspire your next bathroom remodel. Download your copy today!

Contact our Client Relations Coordinator to get started on your bathroom remodel. Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website to schedule a consultation by phone.

December 27, 2023
Bathroom Design Trends for 2024
Staying ahead of the curve and knowing what is happening in the world of home design is where the Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio excels. Whether it’s spending time at Trade Shows, attending product trainings or visiting design showrooms of our preferred vendor partners, we know what’s current with bathroom design trends. This year promises to be exciting and interesting no matter what design you want for your bathroom. Whether you are envisioning a spa-like retreat, a modern oasis, or a timeless classic, these trends will guide you toward a bathroom that’s both functional and stylish.

Wellness, Safety & Environment

Eco-Friendly Fixtures

Ecologically sound bathroom fixtures support the environment, save on water, and are environmentally friendly. Some examples are:
- Water-efficient faucets and showerheads consume 30% less water than the standard flow rate. Manufacturers like Kohler, Moen and Delta have features that help reduce water waste.
- Dual flush toilets incorporate high and low volume buttons which use almost half as much water as older model toilets.
- Energy-efficient ventilation fans with the ENERGY STAR rating use about 50% less energy than standard models. Beyond that we recommend using a model like Panasonic WhisperGreen Select with accessory modules. The condensation sensor controls humidity with variable humidity controls from 30-80%.
- Energy efficient lighting and LED bulbs.
- Bidets use less energy, save trees and tend to cut household toilet paper consumption by 80%!
Sensory Experiences

Create spa-like bathroom spaces for refuge and calm by adding these elements.
- Heated flooring.
- Aromatherapy, chromatherapy, hydrotherapy and steam shower and bathing systems.
- Fogless lighted mirrors.
- Bring nature indoors with green plants, natural stone and wood accents.
Smart aka Digital Upgrades
- Touchless faucets and toilets.
- Digital shower valves for customized water flow and temperature.
- Germ-killing materials and coatings.
- Blue-tooth speakers.
- Mini fridges for not only holding beverages but also medications and cosmetics.
Bling & Color

Vibrant Tile

Interesting is in and we are here for it! Create some visual impact and personality in your bathroom with tile. Material selections are endless with glass, porcelain, ceramic, natural stone or cement. Tile has been used in wet spaces since the days of the Roman baths.
- Geometrics, mosaics and patterns.
- Large format tiles for those who prefer less grout.
- Mix ups sizes and textures.
Color Palettes

There are endless possibilities of paint colors available! From neutral to dramatic a coat of paint is the easiest way to give your bathroom a new look.
- Muted colors are soothing and perfect for creating a spa-like retreat. Think soft gray, sage green or blush pink. Our Design Team is in love with 2024 colors of the year from our favorite paint brands. Sherwin Williams Upward SW6239, a breezy, blissful blue. And from PPG, Limitless PPG1091-3, a warm honey beige hue.
- Vibrant colors will energize and boost your mood, like turquoise and fuchsia. A powder room is the perfect small space to experiment with a bold splash of color. Try our Team’s recommendations from PPG Pine Garland PPG1126-6 and Purple Basil PPG1046-7 or Sherwin Williams Gale Force SW7605 or Tricorn Black SW6258.
- Wallpaper is back! Bring intricate pattern and color to a powder room with artful designs like these. Check out the selection at Ruth Wilson Showroom or Home Source.
Birds & Butterflies by Schumacher

Twinning Midnight by Graham & Brown

Cork Forest by Thibaut

Personalized, eco-friendly, tech-savvy, sustainability, mindfulness, comfort, blissful, personality, and functionality (how many buzz words can we use to describe what’s coming?!). Your bathroom is an important hub for self-care, relaxation, and an escape. This year’s trends cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Our Remodel-Design-Build Team is ready to make your 2024 bathroom the room you’ve been waiting for.

Get inspired by visiting our Bathrooms Portfolio on our website!

Ready for a bathroom remodel? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator by calling 614-459-4000 or visit our website.
December 24, 2023
How Do I Know it is Time to Remodel My Bathroom?
The bathroom is likely the most used room in your home. It’s where you and your family start the day and end your day. It’s also a place to relax, rejuvenate, and maybe hide from the kids. If your bathroom has seen better days, is stuck in a time warp, or the flow & function is not quite working for you, then it’s probably also the space you can’t wait to leave. Our Remodel-Design-Build Team has seen everything and knows when it is time to remodel. But do you?

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

Get inspired by visiting our Bathrooms Portfolio!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get inspired by visiting our Kitchens Portfolio! Ready to remodel your kitchen? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today. Call 614-459-400 or Visit the contact page on our website to schedule a phone call.
December 11, 2023
Renovation Lifecycle – Design & Estimating

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!

Step 7: OnSite PreConstruction Meeting (1-2 weeks prior to Project Launch 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!

Ready to get started? Contact our Team today!

Check out this throwback video from 2016 of George Cleary, CR, CEO explaining our Design-Build process.

October 5, 2023
Basement Remodel | Clintonville, OH

Before buying their next home, past clients, Michael & Lori reached out to The Cleary Company once again to make sure the plan they saw for the basement would be possible. Their vision, brought to life by our Remodel-Design-Build Team, has this family enjoying the best lives in their newly remodeled basement. What was their experience like working with us?

Q & A with Michael & Lori, Clintonville

What was the goal for your remodel?

When we were in the process of buying this house, we consulted with The Cleary Company before closing to make sure we could accomplish what we were envisioning for the unfinished basement. We wanted to finish it with a gym, office nook, and play space for our kids. An added bonus was being able to make the existing laundry room a much nicer, cleaner room. We accomplished all of these things!

One end result we didn’t have as a primary goal for our basement is that it is now much more energy efficient because it is well insulated, weatherized, and has a new electrical box. We can really tell the temperature difference going from the basement to the upstairs and we recently added insulation to our first floor because of this. It is already saving us money and lowering our electricity costs, and we will benefit from rebates via the Inflation Reduction Act as well.

What is your favorite aspect of your remodeled space?

All of it! The best part is how much our 3-year-old loves the play area and has made it his own. Seeing him be creative and explore that room is the best. Eating, playing, hanging out—we do it all in the basement now.

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

Hire Cleary! The most impactful part of the planning stages was the thoughtfulness of the designs presented to us. We had three excellent designs to choose from and all of the designs were reflective of our needs and our desires for the space. The final design we chose mixed and matched a few of the design elements and was amended a bit to reflect some costs that had come in.

The Cleary Company was exquisite to work with on that front and made everything work to plan. The caliber of their work through the process and their communication is top notch. The end result is something that will benefit us for as long as we live here and the next family that lives here well after us.

The Cleary Company Remodel Difference

Why did you choose The Cleary Company to complete your remodeling project? We had used The Cleary Company before as they remodeled our bathroom in our prior home in German Village. They have also completed some projects at my mother’s house. We had already created a relationship with them and knew George pretty well. They don’t come much better than George Cleary and his company reflects that.

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

Our favorite part, besides the final project, was the front end—everything we wanted was designed to our liking. We had to make adjustments and design choices along the way and the designer, Laura, was wonderful to work with. They really helped us make this house our own, which has been really special. Seeing our dreams become a reality has been a real thrill!

The team who worked in our basement was wonderful.

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

Quality.

Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

Yes, 100%.

Just for Fun!

Watch this video to tour their basement remodel ~

Basement Remodel – Clintonville, Columbus, Ohio

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!

September 28, 2023
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.
August 8, 2023
Space Saving Strategies for a Compact Bathroom
Small Bathroom, Big Potential – Bathroom Remodeling Solutions in Columbus, Ohio.

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

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

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

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

Do you have a small bathroom that needs an upgrade by implementing many of these space-saving solutions? Contact our Remodel-Design-Build Team today to discuss your home remodeling projects! Give us a call at 614-459-4000 or contact us through our website.
August 2, 2023
Your 8 Step Guide to Hiring the Right Remodeler
Navigating the Remodeling Maze

Planning a remodeling project is exciting! You’ve been thinking about the room or rooms you want to change, you’ve probably been binge watching some renovating shows, looking through home magazines or scrolling through Pinterest, and dreaming. But now it’s time for the nuts and bolts of the plan—choosing the right remodeler to make your dream a reality.

The Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio is ready to create your vision and we want to help you hire the right company for you! The following eight steps should help guide your research to find the best company for your home remodel.

8 Step Guide
1. Define your project: It’s important to start by clearly defining your project. The scope of the work, your goals, budget, timeline, and any specific requirements and preferences are the first steps to think about. Knowing these allows you to articulate your thoughts and ideas to potential remodeling companies.
2. Ask for recommendations: Many times, asking friends, neighbors, or colleagues for company recommendations is an effective way to start your search. Who better than those that have been through a project to give you their thoughts? Checking the company websites for reviews is a good unbiased referral as well. From these recommendations, create your shortlist.
3. Do your research: With your recommended companies in mind, visit their websites, and explore their project profiles, photo galleries, and testimonials. When looking at their websites, find those that fit with your project idea and have a successful company. Another useful resource is the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). A NARI professional remodeling contractor is bound to a code of ethics that holds them to a higher standard of professionalism, integrity and excellence.
4. Check licenses and insurance: We’ve all heard horror stories of companies starting work and not finishing or taking the money and not doing the work. A reputable company is properly licensed and insured and can be verified by local authorities. Licensing does vary by state, so ensure they have the correct licenses and certifications.
5. Schedule a consultation: Now take your shortlist and schedule appointments. During the meeting, discuss your intended project’s details, ask questions, and pay attention to their communication skills, expertise, and professionalism. Who are you most comfortable with having in your home? Ask to tour their job sites, office, showroom or design center.
6. Request references: A remodeling company should have references readily available from their past clients for you to contact. Call them and ask questions about their experiences, the quality of the work, how issues were handled, and how communication was between the client and the company.
7. Develop a project proposal: Choose the company you feel is the best match for your family and project. Enter into a Design Agreement or request a written proposal or quote that includes the general project scope options, timeline of the project, and estimated costs.
8. Sign the contract: After finishing the project development process request a contract that includes a detailed proposal with drawings, a scope of work, materials to be installed, project price and payment terms.
Want to learn more? Read our blog post “Ready for a Home Remodel in 2023“.

Need some inspiration for your next home remodeling project? Visit our Po r tfolio!

Let’s Get Started!

Following these steps will bring you to the right remodeling company for your project. It’s also your responsibility to communicate openly, set realistic expectations, and relay them clearly.

The Cleary Company’s Remodel-Design-Build Team in Columbus, OH, would like the opportunity to collaborate with you by engaging in these conversations. Our Design Studio is available by appointment. Contact our Client Relations Coordinator who will answer all your questions, and explain our process. Call today 614-459-4000 or visit our website!
June 29, 2023