Tag: home addition columbus oh

  • Home Addition & Exterior Remodel | Upper Arlington, OH

    Home Addition & Exterior Remodel | Upper Arlington, OH

    Bryan and Richard have made a lot of changes to their 1950’s 2-story home in Upper Arlington, OH since purchasing it in 2019, but hired our Remodel-Design-Build Team to add some much-needed space to complete their vision and upgrade the curb appeal. Their home is now an entertaining dream with flow, function, and amazing views.

    Q & A with Bryan & Richard

    What was the goal for your remodel?

    We wanted to rebuild our dining/living room to feel seamless and as comfortable as the rest of the house. It was important to create a great flow to our outdoor patio spaces.

    We completely remodeled the house 2 years prior to working with The Cleary Company, but this renovation did not include any physical additions to the space. During the original remodel, we relocated the kitchen to one-half of the first-floor footprint that took over the existing dining room in order to incorporate a new mud room area with laundry, coat closet and a half bath. With this change, we moved the dining room to the living room to create a “great room” concept. We love the house and enjoy all the initial renovations that also included extensive landscaping and outdoor patio areas.

    Unfortunately, the living/dining room side of the house was just too tight and didn’t feel nearly as enjoyable as the rest of the house. Quite simply, it didn’t match all the other enhancements to the home. This was the reason for our recent renovation with The Cleary Company.

    With our love of the outside spaces of our home, we also wanted to enhance the curb appeal of this very traditional 1950’s UA layout.

    What is your favorite aspect of your remodeled space? 

    The natural light and flow. We love windows and we put a lot of them into the small space! While we only added about 200 total square feet but, the flow and “livability” of the space is absolutely wonderful! The “great room” now connects our front sitting area to our back patio and it’s all seamless.

    Additionally, the new front and back porches and gables, with several beautiful design details, completely changes the curb appeal from a 1950’s box to a beautiful modern feeling home. We enjoy entertaining our friends and family and everyone comments on how comfortable our home is. We think that is about the best compliment you can receive!

    What advice would you offer to someone who is thinking of remodeling their home?
    Live in your space for a bit before starting the remodeling process to really understand what you like and what you want to change. Understand that the inconvenience of the work and mess is really a moment in time. Once done, it becomes a very distant memory while you enjoy the vision you had for your home!

    The Cleary Company Remodel Difference

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

    We saw their signs throughout the community and attended one of their NARI tour homes. We asked people who were using them directly how they felt about the work and the comments were very positive. We felt that the quality of the workmanship we saw throughout these discussions was very good.

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

    Their attention to detail. We felt that while we knew they were handling multiple and larger renovations they had their attention focused on our project in a way that made us feel valued. We never felt as if we weren’t getting the attention we needed throughout the process. No matter how much you know about construction, there will be things that concern you when it is your own house. We thought they did a very good job in explaining what was happening and how a resolution would come to the project.

    Who from our Team stood out and how did they exceed your expectations?

    Laura Watson, Rob Lindeboom and Ben Ludlow. They were all so kind and respectful of us as homeowners living through the process.

    Laura was outstanding in organizing our thoughts and preferences into a final design that checked all the boxes. She is fun and you can tell she truly enjoys design and the challenges of the project.

    Rob is a very good communicator. He is honest and direct and when he doesn’t have the answer he gets back to you with one in a timely manner. He really keeps things moving and always took time to keep us up to date on progress, challenges, etc. We added a few things to the project, and I felt like he was very helpful in guiding those changes for the improvement of the overall project.

    Ben was fantastic—we felt like he became part of our family! He is proud of his work and helps to keep everyone moving in the right direction. He, too, is a great communicator and works to resolve things quickly. Usually by the time we would ask a question it had already been resolved!

    I would also add that all the subs that work with The Cleary Company were outstanding. We had no issues with any of them. They were all very respectful of being in our home while we were living there.

    I work in commercial food service and have been long involved in design build projects for large commercial kitchens. I was so impressed that when we got to the final punch list—I had nothing to put on it; I have never experienced this in my career! Rob and Ben did an outstanding job of managing the details up to the last day.

    Just for Fun!

    In one word why did you choose to do business with The Cleary Company? 

    Quality

    Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

    Absolutely and we have several times already!

    Are you ready to remodel your home?

    Get started today by visiting our website! Our Remodel-Design-Build Team is ready to help you navigate the remodeling process, upgrade your home’s curb appeal and collaborate with you to make your vision of your home a reality.

  • Pricing Your Exterior Home Remodel

    Pricing Your Exterior Home Remodel

    How Much Does an Exterior Remodel Cost in Columbus Ohio?

    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 Cost vs Value report, as four of the top five returns on investment are for projects related to home exteriors.

    So, what does it cost to upgrade your home’s curb appeal or remodel the outside of your home? Calculating the cost of any remodel requires knowing first the 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, Our Remodel Design Build Team at The Cleary Company Columbus, OH has assembled the following project examples and ballpark costs. We also recommend reviewing the Cost vs Value report mentioned above for additional information on building and remodeling costs in Columbus OH.

    3 PROJECTS – 3 BUDGETS – 3 SCOPES

    Luxury Example 1: Design-Build an Outdoor Living Space + Other Major Updates
    Ballpark Price Range:  $­­150 – 250k+

    Project Example Budget $275k – $300k

    Example Scope of Work:

    • Build a small addition to increase the home’s square footage
    • Install new hardscape patio w/ fireplace or firepit
    • Build a pergola, gazebo or shelter
    • Upgrade landscaping
    • Add new lighting & other electrical
    • Replace windows & doors
    • Paint existing stucco & trim
    • Add or extend the existing gas line for grilling at your outdoor kitchen

    Luxury Example 2: Design-Build a Sunroom & Outdoor Living Space

    Ballpark Price Range:  $­­100k – $200k+

    Project Example Budget $160k – $200k

    Example Scope of Work:

    • Build a screen porch or sunroom addition OR build a pergola, gazebo or shelter
    • Install new hardscape patio with a fireplace or firepit
    • Upgrade landscaping
    • Add new lighting & other electrical
    • Paint existing stucco & trim
    • Add or extend the existing gas line for grill

    Midrange: Design-Build New Porch & Update Architectural Details

    Estimated Price Range: $75k ­­­­- $100k+

    Example Budget $100k -$120k

    Example Scope of Work:

    • Build new or extend the existing front porch
    • Replace all or some windows & doors
    • Replace or add new shutters
    • Replace or add new sidewalk
    • Add or upgrade architectural details
    • Replace existing lighting
    • Paint and/or Replace existing siding & trim
    • Update landscaping

    Refresh & Upgrade Curb Appeal 

    Estimated Price Range:  $­­­­­75k – $95k+

    Example Budget $75k – $95k

    • Build a new portico or porch
    • Replace or add new sidewalk
    • Replace front shutters
    • Replace front entry doors & Paint new trim
    • New front porch light
    • Install new mailbox & house numbers
    • Update landscaping

    Feeling inspired to upgrade your home’s curb appeal or modernize its exterior? Our professional Remodel-Design-Build Team has the experience and creativity to help you realize the potential of your home’s exterior. Give us a call to get started ~ 614-459-4000

    Click on Outdoor Photo Gallery to visit our website and view more amazing exterior transformations!

  • 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!

  • 28 Years of Building Relationships & Remodeling

    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!

  • Pricing Your Home Addition | Columbus, OH

    Pricing Your Home Addition | Columbus, OH

    How Much Does a Home Addition Cost in Columbus, OH?

    A new home addition is different from a remodel of an existing room in a home. A home addition typically adds new square footage and requires all new everything from the floor up. This includes the foundation, walls, ceiling and roof as well as mechanical systems like electrical, plumbing and heating. Because you are adding something instead of changing a space that already exists, costs can vary greatly.

    Calculating the cost of a home addition requires knowing first the design, scope and size of the project and the type of room you’ll be adding. Will new utilities be required? Maybe not for a sunroom but definitely for a new bathroom. There are also many other variables, including permits, trade prices and material costs.

    Our Team has created the following project profiles to help you begin the discussion for your next home addition project. We also recommend reviewing Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs Value report for more information on building and remodeling costs in Columbus OH.

    3 Projects – 3 Budgets – 3 Scopes

    Upscale – Single or 2 story addition + whole house remodel

    Estimated Price Range: $250k – $750k+

    Possible Scope of Work & Finishes:

    • increase sq ft of home by building outside current footprint
    • exterior updates including new windows and/or siding
    • rework existing interior footprint
    • move and/or add plumbing & hvac
    • upgrade existing lighting and electric
    • greatest number of choices for finishes & materials
    • quartz countertops, custom tile backsplash
    • lots of custom cabinetry
    • large island w/seating & storage
    • Heated tile flooring and/or exotic hardwood floors

    MID-RANGE – Bump Out Build a small add on to existing room

    Addition home Upper Arlington Ohio bar seating and sink

    Estimated Price Range: $100k – $250k 

    Possible Scope of Work & Finishes:

    • enlarge existing room by removing walls & building new
    • reorganize existing layout for greater efficiency
    • move and/or add plumbing & hvac
    • professional level of fixtures & finishes
    • new lighting & electrical
    • basic level granite w/flamed or leathered finish
    • custom cabinetry w/variety of choices
    • refinish existing or install new flooring– hardwood or tile

    MID-RANGE – Build a new room within existing footprint of home

    Estimated Price Range: $75k – $100k

    Possible Scope of Work & Finishes:

    • repurpose existing space with in home’s current footprint; example– basement, attic, spare bedroom
    • install new plumbing & hvac
    • professional level fixtures & finishes
    • basic electrical lighting 2-3 fixtures
    • simple semi-custom painted or stained cabinetry
    • limited countertop choices- level 1 granite or quartz or HD laminate
    • paint only remodeled space

    Visit our Additions Gallery for inspiration!

    Ready to Build Your Home Addition?

    Contact our Client Relations Coordinator by calling 614-459-4000 or visit our website.

  • Universal Design – What Does It Really Mean?

    Universal Design – What Does It Really Mean?

    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. Aging In Place or Universal Design, both used interchangeably, simply defined is 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?

    Creating a Universal Design home means that the living spaces are designed with those principles in mind from the beginning and is aesthetically beautiful. Some examples in design, planning, and adaptations that can be made are wider doorways, smooth level flooring, curb free showers with grab bars and benches, no step entryways, lowered countertop work spaces, elevators or stair lifts, accessible electrical outlets and switches, and kitchens that offer multi-level surfaces for people who use a wheelchair or just need to sit while preparing food.

    Recently, we had the privilege to speak with Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D. an expert on the topic of Universal Design. She and her husband designed their home along with a talented group of architects and designers. The Universal Design Living Laboratory is a marvel of good design that not only works for her, but for everyone. A virtual tour and video tour can be viewed on her website, www.udll.com. What follows are her thoughts on Universal Design, what she’s learned, and what she shares with others.

    Universal Design Living Laboratory – 6141 Clark State Road, Columbus, Ohio 43230
    Rosemarie & Mark in their master bathroom at the Universal Design Living Laboratory

    Q & A with Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D.

    What does Universal Design mean to you? 

    Independence, Safety, Accessibility, and Convenience. These are the 4 pillars of what I’ve experienced as a person using a wheelchair. Having a home that enables me to be independent in my daily living is absolutely the right design for our home. All homes should consider designing with Universal Design from the beginning. It isn’t a specialized design, but rather it’s just good design. The home should include features and products that are ergonomic and right for the conditions of the people that live there whether they have a disability or not. The design accommodates everyone. It’s a whole new design framework of thinking about home design.

    Rosemarie demonstrating the elevated dishwasher in the UDLL kitchen.

    What adaptations did you make that were harder/easier than you thought?

    The pouring of the concrete in the garage was easier than I thought it was going to be. We created two 2-car garages with 2 entrances from the home with no steps. I thought it would be a nightmare to pour the concrete correctly, with the right slope away from the doors, so that when you enter the home there are no steps, just a smooth transition. I imagined how many times, the concrete would have to be jackhammered, removed, and fixed, but it was done right the 1st time. The installers understood the slope and got the gradual grade from the house to the driveway done perfectly the first pour.

    I also anticipated that the Franklin County building authorities would have pushback when we showed them the plans that had no step from the garage to the house, which is needed to prevent any carbon monoxide from entering the home. They understood what we were trying to do and approved our plans. We already had in the plans 2 exhaust ceiling fans in the garage that run 24/7 that keeps any possible fumes from entering the home.

    Harder? That was watching people install pavers in our landscape. The pavers were being installed so that I could have rollable surfaces on all of the patio areas. It was a tedious process to figure out the pattern and how much gravel and sand to use. Then installing, tamping them down, and leveling took a lot of time.  Some of them were installed with a gradual slope and some were edged around retaining walls. This took a long time.

    Rosemarie’s wheelchair moves effortlessly on the on the paver paths. The paver paths give her full access the the gardens in the backyard.

    Now that you have lived in your home, what would you change?

    Actually we are getting ready to make a change now. We found a new product from ShelfGenie. They are going to be a contributor to the home and will be installing roll out shelving under the kitchen and bathroom sinks and some pull down shelving in the cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom. This will give me more convenience, storage, reachability, and accessibility. I can only reach so high in a cabinet so this will be a huge help to me.  I was delighted when I learned about this product and that they are willing to be a contributor. We will have before and after photos on our website so that people that visit can see the significance of their products.

    What are the key elements that you recommend to keep in mind when building or remodeling their home?

    Look at the ROI (return on investment) over the long haul. Many people are shortsighted as they think about remodeling and don’t think they need the wider 36” doors, grab bars in the shower or no step entrance from the garage. They just don’t understand there are advantages to the family over the long term when designing a home using Universal Design. Spend the money and do it right the first time. Listen to the design team that is working with you that knows more than you do about staying in your home for the long tem versus paying to live in an assisted living facility because suddenly you don’t have a home that serves your needs. There can be tremendous value to having Universal Design elements in your home. The key here is value. What is the value versus cost? You have to look at this over the long term of living in your home.

    When someone visits your Universal Design Living Laboratory, what is the one aspect of Universal Design they now understand that they didn’t before?

    It’s beautiful, not institutional, very attractive, and they want it. Universal Design has so much to offer. They see it in its form here as a demonstration home and say, “Wow, I wish we had this. Why didn’t we do that? Why don’t we go home and talk about this?”

    Designer Manager Laura Watson has an accreditation in Universal Design (UDCP) from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). In 2015 Our Team visited with Rosemarie and her husband, Mark, at the Universal Design Living Laboratory click here to see photos from our field trip!

    Rosemarie & Mark visited our Design Center on Kenny Rd in 2015