Tag: home addition columbus ohio

Riverfront Retreat: How One Columbus Home Became a Year-Round Oasis

As summer ends, it is the perfect time to start planning your ideal outdoor space to enjoy for many years to come. Imagine stepping into a luxurious retreat right in your own backyard, where you can enjoy the beauty of every season without ever leaving the comfort of your home. That is exactly what a local family in the Columbus area envisioned when they embarked on an extraordinary outdoor remodeling project that transformed their property into a resort-like haven.

A Vision Turned Reality

Having lived in their home for three years, the homeowners were eager to expand their living space and make the most of their picturesque location along the Scioto River. They envisioned a multi-functional outdoor area that would not only enhance their lifestyle but also complement the existing architecture of their home. The result? A stunning transformation that combines elegance, functionality, and the natural beauty of their surroundings.

Photos of Home Before Addition & Remodel

The Heart of the Transformation: A 4-Season Sunroom

The project began with the addition of a 4-season sunroom, a versatile space designed to provide comfort and relaxation throughout the year. The sunroom’s flooring was meticulously chosen to blend seamlessly with the stone pool surround, creating a harmonious flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. Large, moveable glass wall system from NanaWall were installed, allowing the homeowners to fully open the space to the outdoors. These walls connect the existing basement to the sunroom, providing a seamless transition from the interior to the exterior.

According to Residential Designer Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP, Development Manager at The Cleary Company, “The 4-season sunroom was a crucial element in this remodel, providing the homeowners with a space that could be enjoyed in every season. The integration of the sliding window walls truly brought the outdoors in, creating a flexible and inviting living area.”

Bringing the Indoors Out: A Two-Story Fireplace

One of the most striking features of the remodel is the two-story fireplace, designed to serve both the sunroom and the deck above. This stunning centerpiece not only adds warmth and ambiance to the space but also ties the two levels together, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Whether it is a chilly evening in the sunroom or a cool night on the deck, the fireplace ensures that the outdoor living areas can be enjoyed year-round.

Outdoor Cooking and Entertainment

Above the sunroom, a large composite deck was constructed, offering an expansive area for dining, lounging, and enjoying breathtaking views of the river. Understanding the importance of outdoor entertainment, the remodel included dual covered outdoor cooking areas, allowing the homeowners to prepare meals and entertain guests in style, regardless of the weather. A dedicated pool storage area ensures that all pool-related items are organized and easily accessible.

A Seamless Blend with Nature: Landscaping and Pool Area

The outdoor remodel would not be complete without a carefully designed landscape plan that enhances the overall aesthetic. Working closely with Hidden Creek Landscaping, the homeowners created an extensive pool, hot tub, and entertainment area that perfectly complements the new structures. The sunroom’s stone flooring was extended to the pool surround, providing a unified look. Natural stone walkways and steps were added to connect the deck with the lower yard, while outdoor lighting, including sconces, post lighting, and stair lighting, was thoughtfully integrated to enhance the ambiance and safety of the space.

A Retreat for the Whole Family – Including the Dogs!

With two beloved Bernese Mountain dogs, the homeowners wanted to ensure their outdoor space was as accommodating for their pets as it was for their family and friends. The expansive indoor and outdoor areas provide plenty of room for the dogs to run, swim and explore, while the flexible design of the space allows it to be used for a variety of activities depending on the weather, time of day, or season.

A Vacation at Home

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of this outdoor remodel is how effortlessly it brings a vacation-like experience to everyday life. The resort-style amenities, combined with the thoughtful design that integrates both the indoor and outdoor spaces, create an environment where the homeowners can host large family gatherings or simply relax and unwind. The addition complements the existing home’s architecture beautifully, ensuring that the view from the Scioto River is nothing short of spectacular.

Laura summarizes the project by stating “It was all about creating a retreat that felt like a vacation every day. The seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, along with the resort-like features, allows the homeowners to enjoy a luxurious and relaxing environment without ever leaving home.”

Ready to start planning your own outdoor retreat?

Explore our outdoor living projects portfolio for inspiration and then schedule an initial phone conversation with our Client Relations Coordinator to discuss your remodeling needs.

September 12, 2024
Lakehouse Remodel & Addition

Project Spotlight: Extensive interior remodel of an A-frame style lakehouse near Columbus, Ohio that included multiple additions. The project scope included gutting a majority of the interior but left several of the home’s architectural details which were important to the family and fit its unique style.

As-Built Floorplan & Before Photos

BEFORE Interior photos

BEFORE Exterior photos

New Remodel-Design-Build Whole House Plan

A 2nd story addition created a new primary suite with a private balcony plus a den, guest bedroom, bathroom and loft area with built-in bunk beds. The kitchen was expanded to accommodate gourmet appliances, a large island with a seating room, plus a service bar and butler’s pantry. Another addition included a screened-in porch with 2 sided fireplace.

Part 1 Kitchen

Part 2 Main Living Spaces

Bathrooms & Bonus Room

The Result!

Primary Bedroom w/ views of the lake from private balcony

Primary Bathroom

Powder Room

Great Room w/ vaulted ceiling and view of the lake

Loft serves as game room and guest bedroom

Entry mudhall

Kitchen

Sitting room off the kitchen

Service bar in kitchen

Entry Hall

Watch the before & after video below! See the transformation of this classic A-frame style home after the two additions and interior remodel. For more videos of this extensive whole house remodel project located on the shores of Lake Choctaw near London just outside the metro area of Columbus Ohio, check out our YouTube playlist.

Does Your Home Need a Remodel?

Contact our Client Relations Coordinator to get started today! Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website.

May 5, 2024
How Much Does a Home Addition Cost? | Columbus OH
Building an addition onto your home is different from a remodel to an existing room. In Columbus, OH building a home addition typically adds new several hundred square feet and requires installing all new everything. 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 for a home addition project 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 want to add. 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.

The Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company has experience building all types of home additions. 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 Home Addition Projects, 3 Budgets & 3 Scopes

UPSCALE – Single floor or 2 story addition + whole house remodel

Possible Scope of Work & Finishes – Price Ranges $350k – $1m+
- Increase sq ft of home by building outside the current footprint
- Exterior updates including new windows and/or siding
- Rework existing interior floorplan
- Move and/or add plumbing & hvac
- Upgrade existing lighting and electric
- Greatest number of choices for finishes & materials
- Quartz countertops
- Tile floors and/or walls
- Ample custom cabinetry
- 1 or more large islands w/seating & storage
- Heated tile flooring and/or exotic hardwood floors
MIDRANGE Bump Out – Build on to an existing room

Covered Porch Addition plus converted existing Den into bar/lounge.
NARI of Central Ohio CotY Award Winner

Possible Scope of Work & Finishes – Estimated Price Ranges $250k+
- 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
MIDRANGE – Build a new room within existing footprint of home

Back entry area of home converted into Mudroom & Drop Zone

Possible Scope of Work & Finishes – Estimated Price Range $75k – $100k+
- Repurpose existing space with in home’s current footprint – a porch, basement, attic, or spare bedroom
- Install new plumbing and/or hvac
- Upgrade electrical + new lighting 2-3 fixtures
- Custom cabinetry and/or storage
- New trim & paint only in remodeled space
Get Inspired

Visit the Additions gallery on our website to view more completed home addition projects from our award winning Remodel-Design-Build Team.

Ready to Get Started on Your Home Addition in Columbus, Ohio?

Contact our Client Relations Coordinator by calling 614-459-4000 or by visiting our website.
June 30, 2023
Top Four Benefits of a Home Addition | Columbus, OH
Why building a home addition makes sense for your family.

Do you need more space or functionality in your home for a growing family? Maybe you need a home office or want a sunroom? Or do you desire a ground-level primary suite for aging in place in your home of 20-30+ years?

A design-build home addition can provide many benefits for your family. Our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio is who you can trust to collaborate with you to develop and execute a plan that works for your family and lifestyle.

Furthermore, adding on to your home is a wise investment to make for your family, especially when you want to stay in your neighborhood. The following are some benefits to consider, helping you decide when it’s time to add on to your home.
1. Increase family living space. How great would it be to expand part of your beloved home without having to move or leave your neighborhood? Adding a bedroom, family room, home office, blowing out the wall to expand the kitchen, or adding a sunroom keeps you in your home without the hassle of moving. Extra square footage can greatly impact the quality of life for your family and give you the extra room you need to grow.
2. Comfort, functionality, and personalization. Designing an addition for your home allows you to tailor your design plan to suit your family’s preferences and needs. Customizing the plan during development and design gives you the flexibility to create a spa-like bathroom, a functional home office, a spacious family room, or an additional bedroom to serve as a primary or a guest suite. Perhaps it’s the addition of a 4-season room to complete your vision for your backyard oasis. Personalizing it ensures that your home is tailored to your lifestyle and design aesthetic.
3. Cost-Effectiveness. Of course, a home addition will cost you money. But that will pale in comparison to the cost of purchasing a new, larger home. The cost of moving to a new home involves real estate agent fees, closing and moving costs, and potential renovations to make a new home yours. A home addition allows you to add the room you need, without the cost of relocating to a new home. A side benefit, you will increase the value of your property, depending on what you add to your home. Additional square footage usually translates into a higher market value.
4. Aging in place. This is a top consideration for many of our design-build clients. They love their home, their neighborhood, and their community. But a two-story home that worked for their family isn’t working as well now that the kids are gone, and the parents are getting older. The need for more living space on the first floor is a common theme we encounter. Creating additional kitchen space, a first-floor primary bedroom and bathroom suite, and a sunroom is high on the list for remodeling projects.
Watch the Home Additions playlist on our YouTube channel to see how we’ve transformed many homes in central Ohio!

After you hire the Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company, we will not only collaborate with you to develop and execute a plan that works for your lifestyle but our Team will handle all of the details. We are responsible for the budget, scope of work, design plan, quality and completion of your project as well as,
- Provide you one point of contact.
- Navigate your local zoning regulations.
- Draft construction documents & plans for building permits.
- Determine any impacts on the overall aesthetics of your property.
- Work within your budget by simultaneously designing and estimating your project.
What does a home addition cost in Columbus, Ohio? Read our blog to see what investment ranges you can expect when hiring a design-build firm for a home addition.

Read more tips for planning a home addition from BobVila.com the quintessential resource for trustworthy advice for your home.

Let’s work together to fulfill your vision and improve your home life! Visit the Contact page on our website or call our Client Relations Coordinator @ 614-459-4000.
June 12, 2023
Home Addition & Remodel | Upper Arlington, OH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photos of new interior living spaces.

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

April 5, 2022
Team Cleary Wins NARI Remodeling Awards

George Cleary, CR, Owner & CEO of The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio, is proud to announce his Team’s recent industry achievements in design and craftsmanship. “The CotYs are great for recognizing the best of the best. I’m more thrilled with each win we receive. It’s truly a Team effort but it’s also great for the Project Developers, Designers, Project Managers and Carpenters who collaborate with our clients to build these winning projects that showcase their awesome talents. It’s also great to receive remodeling recognition by our industry peers with these wins.”

The NARI CotYs are awarded at the local, regional and national levels. In December 2020, three projects designed and built by The Cleary Company won NARI of Central Ohio CotY awards. On February 1, 2021, those three projects plus a master bathroom remodel each won a NARI East Central Region CotY award. National awards are scheduled to be announced the afternoon of Friday April 30, 2021 in a virtual presentation of NARI’s annual Evening of Excellence.

Residential Exterior Remodel $100-200k :

Project Developer John Coleman, CRPM & Designer Matt Zimmer

Residential Kitchen Remodel $60-100k

Project Developer & Designer Jen Sommers, CR, Allied ASID – Read more about this project on our blog!

Kitchen Remodel – Dublin OH

Commercial Interior Remodel:

Project Developer Robert Raskin – Designer Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP – Project Manager Eric Isler

Fun facts! This Commercial Interior project remodeling award winner was our previous office location. Our Team also won a CotY in 2012 for this building in this same category for the extensive remodel and addition we designed and built. Now it’s home to Puptown Lounge‘s newest location! Check them out at 4766 Kenny Rd, Columbus, Ohio, 43220.

Residential Bath Remodel $50-75k

Project Developer Robert Raskin & Project Manager Rob Lindeboom, CLC

What are the CotY Awards?

The prestigious CotY (Contractor of the Year) awards are presented each year to NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) members who have demonstrated outstanding work through their remodeling projects. Members submit projects voluntarily through an online portal for judging by their peers located outside their local chapter.

Because CotY-winning remodeling award projects demonstrate exceptional design and craftsmanship in renovation, a diverse and impartial panel judge each project. Projects entered into the National CotY Awards program are eligible to win a Regional award among 48 categories in seven regions nationwide. Selection of one National CotY winner is from amongst the Regional winners in each category. Stay tuned for more announcements!

The Cleary Company Team has several active members in NARI’s Central Ohio chapter, which is located in NARI National’s East Central Region. Ten Central Ohio remodeling companies submitted a total of 45 project entries in the 2020 local competition. Ultimately, twenty-seven winners were announced in 26 award categories with a rare tie in the Commercial Interiors category!

February 9, 2021
Winners of 5 NARI East Central Region CotY Awards

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) announces their 2020 Regional Contractor of the Year (CotY) Awards. The Cleary Company Team sees five of their eight projects submitted win!

What are the CotY Awards?

The prestigious Contractor of the Year (CotY) awards are presented each year by NARI Headquarters to NARI members who have demonstrated outstanding work through their remodeling projects.

Judged by a diverse and impartial panel, CotY winners demonstrate exceptional design and craftsmanship in remodeling. Projects entered into the National CotY Awards program are eligible to win a Regional award among 48 categories in seven regions nationwide and one National CotY winner will be selected from amongst the Regional winners in each category. 2020 National awards winners will be announced on Friday April 24th so stay tuned!

The Cleary Company are members of NARI’s Central Ohio chapter which is located in the East Central Region. In total Central Ohio members won in 17 award categories! Here’s a look at The Cleary Company’s winning projects.
Basement $100-$250k
Residential Historical Renovation/ Restoration Under $250k
Residential Addition Under $100k
Residential Bath $25-$50k
Commercial Interior

March 9, 2020
Primary Suite Addition & Private Courtyard
Home Details: 1950’s craftsman ranch our clients in purchased in 1996

Project Duration: Design – 3 months & Construction – 5 months

Project Spotlight: Home addition and remodel of a primary bathroom and bedroom incorporates contemporary craftsman design style, spa technology and includes a peaceful Zen garden with two water features and an outdoor shower.

The expanded primary bedroom features a custom platform bed with built-in storage underneath and floating cabinets on each side. All lighting, sound, temperature and fans in the space are fully automated through wi-fi connection to the owners’ phone. Large picture windows allow natural light to fill the bedroom & bathroom spaces.

Project Designer – Laura Watson ASID, UDCP

NARI National Contractor of the Year Award winning project

Click the publication links to read articles featuring this project!
- City Scene Magazine
- HouseTrends Magazine
Pro Photography by Marshall Evan Photography

Design Statement:
- Contemporary Style – Warm, Tranquil, Simple Lines, Clean, Fresh, Open & Natural Light.
- Spa like retreat for busy professional couple.
- Tech options galore – state of the art smart home systems.
- Maintain & enhance architectural details of existing home.
General Scope of Work:
- Design & Build addition of new master suite & private courtyard w/outdoor shower & water feature.
- Relocate and add all new plumbing & electrical services in remodeled space.
- Incorporate “smart home” technologies into remodeled space – switches, speakers, outlets, etc.
- Remove awkward angles of bedroom and install new larger windows to bring in ample natural light.
- New foundation for 2 additions approx. 70-74sf each plus roof modifications.
- Spray foam insulation in all new walls.
Project Challenges:
- Several custom options & details needed to be thoroughly planned prior to installation.
- Keeping on schedule – several adjustments were made due to customized products & details.
- Extensive plumbing & electrical upgrades pushed limits of some of our trades.
- Roof design required great attention to detail due to current roof shallow pitch.
- Super involved homeowner who wanted latest and greatest plumbing & tech products created learning curves for designer and project manager.
- Custom courtyard gate designed & fabricated from scratch.
January 2, 2020
Home Remodeling Clients for 25 Years | Columbus OH

In the spring of 1994 George Cleary established The Cleary Company at the urging of his wife, Cathy. He began by promoting himself and his new business to not only his family and friends but to the families of his friends. It wasn’t long before he secured his first clients, Luke & Gail, the parents of a classmate from Bishop Watterson High School. The project? Build an addition on the back of their home in Upper Arlington! A 15′ x 19′ screened porch with 2 skylights and a ceiling fan. Plus a 28′ paver patio, a concrete pad, cedar steps and landscaping for their new hot tub.

An Interview with Luke & Gail – George’s First Clients

Why did you first choose to hire George to build your remodel? And why did you continue to choose The Cleary Company for all your future renovations?

George and Rob were classmates of our daughter and her husband so we knew them and liked them. We had a problem and they were able to solve it. After the project was completed we could not have been more pleased. Everything came out just the way we wanted and more importantly just as he said it would. Later when we purchased another home we had George and his crew back to remodel that home as well. When we eventually sold that home the new owners were so impressed with the craftsmanship they hired The Cleary Company for several remodel projects.

Who is your favorite Team member and how did they exceed your expectations?

Rob has unique skills of craftsmanship. He fabricated a beautiful mantel for us and every time we had a fire in that fireplace we remarked at his artistry.

What advice would you offer to someone who is looking to remodel their home?

Hire George and his team. They can build dreams into reality!

If you could use one word to describe why you choose to do business with The Cleary Company, what would that be?

There isn’t one word! Dependable, caring, careful, creative, problem solvers. They are a great company to do business with.

Luke & Gail’s Westerville OH Home exterior project 2008:

George & Luke at our 2012 open house for our newly remodeled Kenny Rd location:

George with Gail & Luke at our 25th Anniversary party 10-10-19:

“It’s been a great ride George, Congratulations! We have always been proud that we were your very first client. We will always hold dear the wonderful memories of you and your crew working on our two beloved homes.” – Gail & Luke, Clients 25 years, Upper Arlington OH & Westerville OH

May 14, 2019