Tag: design build remodeling

  • What’s the ROI of an Attic Remodel?

    What’s the ROI of an Attic Remodel?

    Your attic. It’s that space you aren’t sure you can do anything with, right? Well, guess what? Most of the time, you can do something amazing with an attic. Whether it is creating more storage, a bathroom, bedroom, office or kids’ playroom, our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio can collaborate with you to create a project plan that fits your lifestyle needs.

    Want to know what an attic remodel might it cost? We’re diving into information from the 2022 Remodeling Impact Report from The National Association of Realtors® (NAR) Research Group and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). According to this study, Americans spent $420 billion in 2020 remodeling their homes. And remodeling attics is part of where money has been spent!

    Read on for what the Report tells us about Attic Remodels

    NAR utilizes a Joy score for each project based on happiness. The Joy score for an Attic Remodel is a 10/10! That score tells us that an attic remodel is 100% joy-driven! 83% of consumers would have undertaken the project, regardless of the pandemic.

    Remodeling an attic by creating a livable space (living area) has a cost recovery value of 75%. “REALTORS® provided an estimate of the likely dollar value each project would add to the house at resale. In comparing that dollar value to the estimated cost of each project provided by NARI members, a Recovered Project Cost percentage was calculated.”

    It’s important to realize that NARI Remodelers placed the cost estimate of an attic remodel at $100,000 (nationwide) and the estimated cost recovery is $75,000. This amount is based on creating a living area, so costs will vary based on your needs for the attic.

    NAR / NARI 2022 Remodeling Impact Report

    To learn more, read the full report here.

    Functional, Beautiful, & Livable #ImprovingYourHomeLife

    More often than not, our Team has designed & built bathrooms in unfinished attic spaces however, we can also create new bedrooms, offices, gyms and more! Adding an extra room or finishing unused spaces will change the way your home functions and will make it a home you’ll want to stay in for a long time.

    Check out some of our favorite attic remodels!

    Does this make you ready to think about your attic in a new way? Contact us to get started! Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website today to schedule a phone call with our Client Relations Coordinator.

  • 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.

  • Planning a Bathroom Remodel for All

    Planning a Bathroom Remodel for All

    Designing and building with regards to Living in Place and using Universal Design principles means that the home is suitable for the needs of all the individuals aging independently as possible. As you look around your home, what jumps out at you? Are your living spaces functional for aging gracefully and safely for the rest of your life? Are there modifications and changes you need to make while keeping a beautiful aesthetic that functions for your family?

    The Cleary Company’s Remodel Design Build Team in the Columbus area has the experience and expertise to create a functional plan for your home to Live in Place. We have helped many families create spaces that are accessible and beautiful.

    Universal Design isn’t something most homeowners think about when building or remodeling a home, but it is something we discuss frequently with our clients. Living In Place or Universal Design, both used interchangeably, is simply defined as a home designed and built to be used and accessed easily by all people no matter their age, size, or abilities. This universal approach to design and construction is all about planning and details. What products, features, and space planning considerations need to be in place for the space to function for all?

    Living in Place design elements for the bathroom

    Your bathroom is your private sanctuary but it’s also the most heavily used space in your home. Spending time discussing all of the details needed for a safe and functional space is time and money well-spent! Our Design Team reviews and recommends the following to all our bathroom remodeling clients.

    • Zero-entry or low threshold shower wide enough to accommodate two adults (should a caregiver be necessary)
    • Handheld showerhead and moving the shower controls closer to the entry part of the shower
    • A shower seat that is movable (there are some gorgeous teak options available!) or one that is permanent and folds down
    • Faucets and plumbing fixtures with lever handles, anti-scald controls and pressure balances are preferred for ease of use as well as safety
    • Comfort height toilet preferably (with a bidet seat!) and if possible reposition the toilet to allow for wheelchair transfer
    • Grab bars in the shower and beside the toilet
    • Bathroom vanity style with a counter that is accessible for a wheelchair, a seat, or small children
    • Mirror placement that allows everyone to use it
    • Flooring throughout with slip-resistant qualities
    • Accessible storage – drawers and shelves at varying heights
    • Pocket or barn door entry
    • Lever-style door handles

    Additional changes to consider for all of the main living spaces

    While incorporating all of these updates can be extensive, they are the recommendations we routinely discuss with all of our clients.

    • Widening entryways and hallways to allow for walkers, wheelchairs or scooters
    • Opening up the floorplan for traffic flow and visibility
    • Using countertops of varying heights in the kitchen & as well as bathrooms
    • Moving switches and outlets for easier reach
    • Replacing carpet with hardwood, vinyl or tile flooring that is easier to navigate
    • Adding a bedroom/bathroom to the main floor if one doesn’t exist (or planning for a future need)
    • Limit or eliminate the steps needed to enter the home when possible

    Your entire home can be improved to allow for you or a family member to Live in Place regardless of age or ability. Beginning with your bathroom is a great place to start! Planning now for long-term function means you don’t have to scramble to do it when you really need it should an unexpected medical issue arise.

    Read more about Designing for Accessibility in Your Home on our blog!

    Universal Design Certified Professionals (UDCP)

    If you’re ready to discuss any Living in Place updates in your home please give us a call at 614-459-4000 or visit the contact page on our website to schedule a phone call with our Client Relations Coordinator.

  • Top 5 Bathroom Products for Your Remodel

    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!

  • How Much Does an Exterior Home Remodel Cost?

    How Much Does an Exterior Home Remodel Cost?

    Helpful Information for Pricing Your Next Exterior Project

    You know the old saying “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” right?

    Ask any realtor how this saying translates to the real estate market and their answer will probably be “Curb Appeal!” The importance of a home’s curb appeal in relation to its value is validated in Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs Value report, as four of the top five returns on investment are for projects relating to a home’s exterior.

    So, what does it cost to upgrade your home’s curb appeal or remodel the exterior? Calculating the cost of any remodel requires knowing first the general design, scope and size of the project and this is especially true for a home exterior remodel. Do you just want to add new doors or windows to upgrade your curb appeal or do you also want to change the architectural details of your home’s exterior?

    To help you get started planning your next home exterior project, the Team at The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus, OH has assembled the following project examples and ballpark budget ranges. We also recommend reviewing the Cost vs Value report mentioned above for additional information on building and remodeling costs in Central Ohio.

    3 HOME EXTERIOR REMODELS, 3 BUDGETS & SCOPES

    UPSCALE – Build an Outdoor Living Space + Major Updates to Home Exterior

    Possible Scope of Work & Finishes – ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE:  $­­­­­­100k to $250k+

    • Build a small addition to increase home’s square footage
    • Install new hardscape – patio w/ fireplace or firepit
    • Design-Build pergola, gazebo or shelter
    • Upgrades to landscaping
    • Add new or additional lighting & other electrical
    • Replace windows & doors
    • Paint all or most of existing stucco & trim
    • Add or extend existing gas line for grill

    MIDRANGE – Large – Update Several Details of Front and/or Rear Exterior

    Possible Scope of Work & Finishes – ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE:  $65k ­­­­to $90k+

    • Build new or extend existing front porch
    • Replace all or some windows & doors
    • Shutters – replace or paint existing or add new
    • Walkway – replace or upgrade existing or add all new
    • Lighting – Replace existing
    • Add architectural dimension with innovative design details
    • Siding & Trim – paint or replace existing
    • Upgrade landscaping

    MIDRANGE – Small – Upgrade Curb Appeal by Adding Architectural Details

    Possible Scope of Work & Finishes – ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE:  $­­­­­45 to $65k+

    • Design-Build new portico or overhang
    • Paint existing or install new shutters
    • Paint or replace entry door
    • Replace existing lights
    • Install new mailbox and/or other accessories
    • Install new house numbers
    • Update landscaping

    Visit our Exteriors photo gallery to view more amazing transformations!

    Feeling inspired to upgrade your curb appeal? Our professional Design-Build Team has the experience and creativity to help you realize the potential of your home’s exterior. Contact us today to get started.

  • Front Porch Addition | Grandview, OH

    Front Porch Addition | Grandview, OH

    Transformational is how Natalie and Pierre feel about their home porch addition. They hired The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, Ohio to create a spacious front porch on their 2,140sf farmhouse style home built in 1928. Their main objectives were to create functional exterior living space for entertaining and enjoying the gorgeous views from their hillside home.

    Working with clients that have a vision and a budget ready to go can make the home remodeling process a bit easier! We appreciated their time and commitment to collaborating with our Team on the design and development of their porch project.

    Click here to read the article on this award winning project in CityScene magazine!

    Q & A with Natalie & Pierre Grandview Heights, Ohio

    Why did you remodel your home?

    We added a front porch to our house and replaced the original front door with a French door. Based on the traditional style of our home and other homes in the neighborhood, it should’ve had a porch, but it didn’t. Adding the porch has been transformational in terms of how we use this space. It has also brought so much light and brightness into the front of our home. We open the French doors when the weather is good and leave them open all day long. We can now enjoy the front view of the yard.

    What is your favorite part of your new porch?

    It is designed with two specific areas. One end of it is for dining, with seating for 8 people. The other side has a sitting area with a firepit. We have turned it into a comfortable, flexible outdoor space for dining, chatting, napping, and working. It’s delightful!

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

    Use The Cleary Company! But, beyond that, before you reach out to a company, have a good idea of what you are trying to accomplish and why. Know what the scope of the project is, and your budget. Have your vision laid out, and then when you meet, you’ll get a better sense of how they can help you with the specifics of your project. Pay attention to what questions they ask and what questions they don’t ask. Make sure they understand what you’re trying to achieve. And finally, be open to their input and guidance as they’re the experts in remodeling.

    The Cleary Company Design-Build Difference

    Why did you choose The Cleary Company to design and build your remodel?

    Our process began by looking at which companies were doing remodels and porch additions in our Grandview neighborhood. We approached three Design-Build remodeling companies, one didn’t respond. In the end, after meeting with two companies, one of them being The Cleary Company, our interactions with the people at The Cleary Company really hooked us. Our Project Developer, took us on a tour of completed porch projects. We were able to see the quality of the work they had done and had the opportunity to speak to some of the homeowners to find out about their experiences throughout their remodeling processes.

    I also spoke with George Cleary for an hour during one of their Remodeling 101 open house events. He told me about his company, showed me around the office and design studio, and answered my questions about remodeling. After these interactions, it became a very comfortable choice for us.

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

    Their commitment to quality and customer service. Every person involved with our project brought their “A” game, including the subcontractors. We work from home, so we got to see everything happening, how conscientiously they all worked, solved problems, and resolved any issues that came up, which was a wonderful experience for us.

    Our project presented some challenges because of how our house is located on the lot, with tight maneuverability, a hill sloping away from the house, and a common driveway shared by several households. We were concerned about possible disruptions and inconveniences for our neighbors and damage to our neighbors’ lawns during the project. Before The Cleary Company started construction our Project Manager, dropped off a letter to each neighbor’s home. He also spoke with many of them to let them know what was going to be happening and to be sure to inform him of any issues. We saw this as a big, proactive step, and some of our neighbors commented on how nice that was and how conscientious The Cleary Company was.

    Another example of the extra efforts made during the construction was installing the concrete pad for the porch. It was pumped up the hill from the street, rather than driving a concrete mixing truck onto our common driveway, which could have caused damage and inconvenience. Everyone worked together to successfully resolve all of the challenges.

    Who stood out and how did they exceed your expectations?

    Companies take direction from their owners and that showed with all our interactions with the people at The Cleary Company. More than one person stood out to us!

    George Cleary (Owner) — All of the interactions we had with him were wonderful and he came to check on the project while it was in progress. Our Project Developer was also instrumental in the success of the project from beginning to end. Providing knowledge, guidance, and expertise in a friendly manner.

    Laura Watson (Designer) – Her involvement with the design got everything moving. She captured our vision for how we wanted to use the space and the look and feel of it. She walked through the project with us and came out partway through to see how it was going. Several other employees helped on our project as needed. Our Project Manager was on-site making sure everything was on track and moving smoothly.

    Also of note were the concrete contractors who were phenomenal and efficient and the framing contractor who was so detail-oriented and made sure he made everything right.

    The way the Team interacted with us as clients, as well as how they interacted with their subcontractors, was above par. All the right people fit together to complete the perfect project. All of them went above and beyond. It was a great experience for us!

    What one word describes why you choose to hire The Cleary Company?

    Exceptionalism. (Natalie) Integrity. (Pierre)

    Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

    We already have—to anyone we know who is going to undertake a remodeling project. One neighbor has already hired them and another neighbor has had an initial consult meeting.

    In the end, the people and the details are what really matter, they differentiate one company from another…and The Cleary Company delivered! The Cleary Company was clearly the best company for our home remodel!

    Watch the video tour of this CotY Award winning home addition!

  • Home Addition & Remodel | Upper Arlington, OH

    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.
    floor
    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.
    floor
    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.
    floor
    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.

    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.

  • Design Jobs in Residential Remodeling

    Design Jobs in Residential Remodeling

    Are you interested in a career in residential remodeling design but don’t know how to get started?

    The growth of the remodeling and home building industries through the past 8-10 years, in Central Ohio, has created a need for not only labor from workers who are in the skilled trades but also for those in the design profession. Along with this industry growth, many home design-related tv shows over this same time period have inspired many looking for a new career path to pursue interior design, architecture, drafting, etc.

    At The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus Ohio, we use a team approach for collaboration to create the scope and plan to meet our client’s needs. Through the process of working together, the Project Developer, Designer, Estimator, Design Consultant and Project Manager ensure the client is getting a great experience along with a project that meets their needs.

    Differences Between a Residential Designer vs a Design Consultant?

    What is a Residential Designer?

    A residential designer is a type of interior designer who specializes in working with clients to create functional and visually appealing living spaces. Working with client specifications and requirements, they create the layout and structure of either new or existing homes. Our Designers advise on home construction features in relation to how each room should function to meet the client’s needs. They work closely with our Production Team to create a construction plan to help build the various features for each design-build project.

    What is a Design Consultant?

    A design consultant is a professional who provides aesthetic expertise and product knowledge based on the evaluation of the client’s needs and style. Our Design Consultants

    • Assist with client selections of fixtures & finishes
    • Create selection sheets for Design-Build projects
    • Price project selections within budget
    • Calculate material take-offs & place orders
    • Manage samples in design studio
    • Coordinate vendor meetings for new product offerings and lunch-n-learns

    Meet Our Design Team

    Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP – Design Department Manager – 30+ years experience, 14 yrs @TCC, Degree – BA in Interior Design @ University of Charleston

    Katie Florjancic, UDCP – Project Developer/Designer – 12 years experience, 3 yrs @ TCC – BS in Interior Design & Business Management @ Ohio University

    Shannon Tannehill – Design Consultant – 8 years experience, 2 yrs @ TCC – Interior Design @ The Art Institute of Cincinnati

    Emily Perebzak – Designer – 3 years industry experience – 2022 Joined TCC – BFA Interior Architecture & Design @ Ohio University

    Design Team Q & A

    We asked all of our designers the following questions and were intrigued by their answers. Read on to learn more!

    How did you get your start in design and/or remodeling?

    Laura – I found my passion for remodeling after working for a custom home designer and eventually my own Interior Design business. I loved the challenge of designing for remodeling projects.

    Katie – I started in the New Home industry where I ran the Design Center, picking out materials with clients. After that, I had the opportunity to work with a Kitchen and Bath Designer, where I focused on perfect rendering skills and learning all the details of custom cabinetry in high end kitchens. Looking for more of a challenge, I made my way into the remodeling sales & design working for a small company.

    Shannon – I took my childhood passion of rearranging my bedroom to art school and working in a furniture store. After a few years I made the switch into cabinetry and tile design. Now, with my nearly 10 years of design work, I joined TCC helping clients choose materials for their remodeling projects.

    How would you describe your design style or philosophy?

    Laura – I like many elements of different design styles. I think the key to being a good designer is to be able to give the client a design that reflects their lifestyle, personality, and function of their home. It shouldn’t be what the designer necessarily likes.

    Katie – My design style leans towards midcentury modern furniture with accessories and decor acquired from travel or meaningful experiences.

    Shannon – Transitional roots mixed with something unexpected.

    Just for Fun!

    What design trend are you most excited about? Why?

    Laura – Multi generational living in remodeling. It’s wonderful to create a living spaces for older generations to living with younger ones. It’s important they have their own private space but can still be part of the family unit.

    Katie – The natural, earthy look. There is something very comforting and simple about this style.

    Shannon – Ash Grey hardware!! it’s a nice in-between of satin nickel and matte black and goes with everything. I love the use of greens and blues in kitchens. They add a neutral tone while not being boring.

    What is your favorite (or least favorite) color? Why?

    Laura – Least Fav= Grey, it’s so overdone. I love when clients are open to exploring more color. Choosing the right color can help improve overall well-being, mood, and mental health. Grey is not that color.

    Katie – Fav= Blue-green, calming and reminds me of nature.

    Shannon – Fav= GREEN!!! So many shades to convey different styles. Least Fav= RED. Used in small doses it is ok but it can also be very overpowering.

    Is a career in residential remodeling design in your future? If you need some help or guidance, our designers are here to answer your questions. Who knows, you might just find yourself in a job working with our Team! Visit the Careers page on our website for the current available positions.

  • Landscape Your Yard with Native Plants

    Landscape Your Yard with Native Plants

    We all want our yards to look their best and that means we need to focus on the art of landscaping. A little landscaping can really add to the curb appeal of your home! The difficulty for those of us without the greenest of thumbs is choosing plants that work well for the different areas of your yard. But you can choose plants that are already adapted to local conditions here in Ohio. Pollinators, like bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and bats are on the decline, and we can do our part to help our environment flourish.

    Using native plants provides many benefits, not only for our local environment but for you as well. These hardy plants are adapted to Ohio’s soil and climate conditions, don’t usually need extra water, and don’t require much of your time or energy. A native plant is defined as one that has been in a region prior to being settled by others (in our case, European settlement).

    Top 4 Reasons Using Native Plants Benefits Your Yard

    Time to do other things

    Our time is filled with work, kids, chores, and hopefully time for ourselves. While some of us love to spend time nurturing plants, some of us want to spend our free time doing other things. The beauty of native plants, especially low-maintenance varieties, is they are already established and work well for Ohio’s climate and soil conditions. And because of that, they usually don’t require extra watering—freeing up your time to do other things!

    Pollinators can play

    We all know the importance of bees for our environment. Butterflies, bees, and other bugs and birds all need native pollinator plants. These host plants benefit all wildlife! We need animal pollinators to locate and spread pollen to other plants. This enables plants to make seeds and fruit, keep our ecosystem healthy, and provide a food source and shelter for birds and insects.

    Less water = lower water bills

    While Ohio can be rainy, the summer can also have long periods of little rain. Having native plants, trees and bushes is a good way to save money—as you won’t have to water them as frequently as you do non-native plants. If you want flower baskets on your porch, do that (and try to use pollinator plants in it)—and try to have more native plants as part of your landscaping plan as well.

    Cost

    Due to the abundance of native plants found at garden centers, you’ll find they tend to be cheaper than other plants. The fact they are perfect for Ohio’s temperatures and seasonal changes means they will survive better than non-native plants. In the long run, you’ll spend less money, and you don’t have to replace plants on a yearly basis. Another benefit is native plants don’t need to be fertilized and are resistant to most diseases and pests.

    Landscaping Trade Partners We Collaborate With & Trust

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

    Watch this video tour of our design-build outdoor living space project in Upper Arlington OH that we completed in collaboration with GreenScapes!

    Completed in spring of 2017 & in summer of 2019 we sent our videographer, Marshall Evan Photography, back to shoot the established landscape.

    Resources

    • This Fact Sheet is a great place to find out what trees and shrubs work in Ohio.
    • If you are really on the native plant bandwagon, you might want to replace some if not all of your lawn with pollinator plants. Just taking one area, maybe in your backyard, and planting with some of these plants, can make a difference.
    • This resource provides you with ideas to create a pollinator garden.
    • Attract pollinators to your garden with these tips.

    Beware of Invasive plants!

    An invasive plant is just that—invasive. It can cause environmental damage by crowding out native plants and taking water from local native plants. One invasive plant, honeysuckle, has become a big problem in Ohio and is not allowed to be sold. Many of the metro parks and other areas routinely clear it away.

    Ready to Get Started on Your Next Project?

    No matter what your remodeling needs are, our Team at The Cleary Company is ready to collaborate with you to make them happen. If a new landscape plan is in the scope of your project, we work with the best, so you get the best. Contact us at 614-459-4000.

  • Whole House Remodel | Bexley, OH

    Whole House Remodel | Bexley, OH

    Project Spotlight: An extensive whole house remodel of a 7,600sf home built in 1958 included gutting a majority of the home’s interior, removing an atrium and building a new family room. Check out the feature profile in the 2022 spring edition of Excellence in Design Central & Southwest Ohio in Architectural Digest!

    Our clients relocated to Columbus to be closer to their grandchildren and needed their new home remodeled to function for family gatherings and their love of entertaining guests.

    Key structural changes included removing the atrium along with several walls allowing the new interiors to take advantage of natural light and unobstructed views out the front and rear windows. The staircase in the foyer was rebuilt to open up the foyer and create flow in the floorplan.

    Existing 1st Floor Layout
    Proposed New Floorplan

    Tour this project on our YouTube channel!

    Design Features Include:

    • Natural travertine floors throughout main living spaces
    • 2 spiral staircases
    • 3 large kitchen islands
    • 3 unique stone & tile fireplaces
    • Rustic wood ceiling beams
    • Accent wall in bar clad with reclaimed wood

    Design-Build Project Team:

    Learn More About This Whole House Remodeling Project!

    Ready to start your next home remodeling project? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today to schedule a consult!