Tag: home remodeling columbus ohio

Clients Tackle Two Dream Bathroom Remodels
“It’s time!” During the summer of 2020, Katie and Mario decided they were ready to remodel 2 bathrooms in their Hilliard home built-in 1991. Both spaces were not only past their prime with dated fixtures and finishes they were also not functioning well for the family’s current lifestyle.

The first remodel completed was the hallway bathroom used mainly by the couple’s two daughters. The footprint remained unchanged but the space was gutted and all of the fixtures and finishes were replaced top to bottom. We needed to complete the hall bath first since the clients would be using it while the primary bath was in construction.

Second, on their list was the primary en suite. This bathroom required a complete redesign of the footprint. This project was completed by our award-winning Design-Build Team.

Q & A with Katie & Mario Hilliard, OH

What was the goal for your remodeled bathrooms?

Our hall bathroom was basic, old, cracked and broken. We wanted a modern beautiful updated space. Although the space limited the size of bathtub we could select, we were delighted to be able to go with a deeper model to be used as a soaking tub.

The goal with our main bathroom, connected to our bedroom, was to create a private, calm Zen-like space. It was a poorly designed footprint with small cut-up spaces and builder-grade finishes. It only had one sink! The existing shower was very small, dark and had several cracked tiles. We were worried about the shower leaking and creating water damage. It was very important to us to have an open floorplan with additional storage, a larger shower and a double vanity with two sinks.

Which feature of your remodeled bathrooms is your favorite?

Everything! The deeper tub in the hallway is wonderful because we can fully soak in it. We also appreciated their recommendation of relocating the shower plumbing to another wall. This makes it much easier to use, eliminating the bending and reaching around the toilet. Both bathrooms feature custom vanities that are taller and shower niches that add much-needed storage.

BEFORE

AFTER

Hallway Bathroom

BEFORE

AFTER

Primary Bathroom – Vanity

BEFORE

AFTER

Primary Bathroom – Shower

What advice would you offer to someone who is thinking of remodeling their home?
- Planning – Make sure you are ready to do it—we talked about it for years before we were ready.
- Budget – Be prepared for it to cost a bit more than you think it will because it probably will.
- Schedule – Give yourself time and understand that it may take longer than planned.
- Construction – Be prepared for people in your home during working hours and, of course, the inevitable mess (even though everyone on our project did a great job of keeping our home as clean as possible).
We also learned that a good project manager makes a significant difference, giving us a primary contact with clear information and who is well-organized. I always knew who to call. Go with a company that sets you up with a project manager and the keys for success.

The Cleary Company Difference

Why did you choose The Cleary Company for your bathroom remodels?

We’ve lived in our home for 20 years and wanted it done well! We only had one other company look at our hall bath, but their options were a bit limited for what we wanted. My husband knew George Cleary from Bishop Watterson High School. When I was looking around on The Cleary Company website, I saw the option to use bath2BATH. This made sense for the hall bath since we would not be changing its footprint.

I did talk to some neighbors about their projects with other companies and it seemed like the pricing was going to be similar. When we visited the design center, we talked to George. After speaking with him and everyone else at The Cleary Company, we made our minds up to do it the right and lasting way!

Because we had two construction options available to us, had seen their signs around for years and knew they were a reputable company we didn’t seek out any other remodelers.

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

The people! One of our favorites was meeting our design team on a visit to the design studio. We felt welcomed immediately and they showed us all our options. George also popped in to sit and talk with us. Everyone we worked with laid out the process and explained how each step would break down, from start to finish. They helped us understand how long it would take.

Because our construction was during the pandemic, before vaccines were available, we were extremely pleased with the communication, cleanliness and safety precautions each person took while in our home. When my husband and daughter had to quarantine with COVID, everyone was so flexible and friendly when our project was on hold.

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

Professionalism or Quality (I know it’s two, lol!)

Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

Yes! It was a team effort, and we are incredibly happy with our bathrooms.

Just for Fun!

Who stood out? Name a Team member(s) and how did they exceed your expectations.

The Lead Carpenter for the hall bath project stood out because he basically did everything himself. The plumber and tile cutter helped, but he was a one-man show. His work ethic and talent were impressive.

Justin, the Project Manager for our primary bath, was amazing and kept everything on schedule.

Katie, our Designer, was not on-site, but if there were questions we needed help with, she came out to our home to help out. We appreciated the design plans they created.

All the workers that came into our home worked hard, did the best to their ability, and were able to be flexible. There were big supply chain issues and when we had to wait for products or materials to arrive, they utilized the time they had by doing other parts of the project.

Want to Learn More?

Read our blog for more details on Katie & Mario’s remodeled bathrooms as well as other client and project profiles!

Our clients are awesome. We were honored to collaborate with Katie, Mario and others to create their visions of their much-loved homes. Remodeling is our main business but creating raving fans is our goal and we love what we do!

Ready to remodel any or all of your bathrooms? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator by calling 614-459-4000 or schedule a time for us to call you!
May 24, 2022
Ready to Ditch Your Garden Tub?!
What once was a “wow” amenity years ago in many new primary bathrooms, now doesn’t hold this same affection. A large built-in garden tub was considered a thing of beauty back in the day but hasn’t stood the test of time.

Built-in garden tubs use gallons of water, are not easily navigated with their large tiled decks (especially as we get older), are difficult to clean, and take up valuable bathroom floor space. Garden tubs evoked the spa-like aesthetic we all craved in the 80’s & 90’s, but for today’s lifestyle, these oversized tubs just don’t cut it for many of our clients who are looking for easy care and maintenance for their bathroom remodels. In fact, removing them is the first request from clients looking to hire our team to design and rebuild their new bathroom.

Why remove it?
- Install a larger walk-in shower with a smaller freestanding tub or no tub at all.
- It could add value to your home, as most buyers don’t want a garden tub.
- To free up space for more storage, a larger toilet area, double sinks, and more.
- For a spa-like shower experience, filled with all the bells and whistles – steam, multiple showerheads, sound, lighting – to make it special. (You’ll never want to get out!)
Design ideas to spark your dreams:

Now that you’ve decided to remove your garden tub, what will you add in its place?
- Consider a large walk-in shower. For living in place design, a zero-entry or low threshold shower eliminates the need for a large edge to step over.
- A larger shower also allows for adding a bench, whether it’s used as a footrest or for sitting, they can be either built-in or removable.
- Installing a larger vanity with double sinks creates more countertop space and storage.
- Add additional storage by expanding a nearby closet, create a new closet, or add open shelving.
- Free-standing tubs are much smaller but can still incorporate some of the functions of larger garden tubs. Our Designers like the Evanescence Collection from BainUltra.
- A “wet room” design, incorporates the shower and free-standing tub in the same area which is typically separated from the rest of the bathroom by a glass partition or tiled wall.
For inspiration, take a look at some of our gorgeous bathrooms after the removal of a garden tub!

Before

After

Built-in tub removed to create zero entry shower.

Before

After

Standard hall bathroom alcove tub removed for low threshold shower.

Before

After

Doubled the size of the shower and able to add a large vanity with more storage.

Before

After

Doubled the size of the shower and left enough space for a more functional freestanding tub.

Our award-winning Design-Build remodeling Team is here to collaborate with you to create a design plan that fulfills your vision of a new bathroom that’s not only a beautiful retreat but also functions for your lifestyle. Contact us today to get started! 614-459-4000
May 19, 2022
Highlights from KBIS 2022
Have you looked around at your kitchen or bathroom recently thinking, “Something has to change.”? Make this the year you do something about it!

Remodeling your home can make such a big difference in your daily home life. It’s a positive step to take and we are here to help you every step of the way. At The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus OH, our Designers and Design Consultants listen to your needs and issues with your space and collaborate on a plan that incorporates fixtures and finishes to solve those problems.

In February, four members of our Team attended the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Las Vegas. Design Consultants Shannon Tannehill & Margot Sheehan came back excited to share with us and their clients all of their favorites.

What trends are they most excited about?

Natufia Smart Garden

Beko Front Load Recycled Tub Washer

LG Signature InstaView Door Refrigerator
- Wellness — Focus on nature and “me” time to revitalize the mind and relax the body. Products they loved included:
  - Natufia Smart Garden, grows 32 plants simultaneously with automatic watering and lighting to allow you to enjoy fresh, flavorful, and nutritious-packed plants anywhere, anytime.
  - Kohler bathtubs offer 4 types of bathing features – Soaking, Heated Bubble Massage, Whirlpools, and Vibracoustic. Their signature hydrotherapies create a luxurious spalike experience. Hydrotherapy involves the use of water for soothing an aching body or speeding the recovery of other muscular ailments.
- Smart Home — Innovations that make ordinary experiences in your home more enjoyable. Some of these products included:
  - Beko Washing Machine – The Eco Recycled Tub is the first washer made from recycled plastic bottles. It uses 30% less energy and features 60 recycled water bottles used to make the drum of each washer.
  - GE Profile Kitchen Hub – An innovative way to have smart home integration. Incorporating U+ connect app and Google Assistant along with a guided cooking app and the ability to stream music, shows and movies.
- Living in Place — This has been at the forefront of design for the last few years. We need cleanable, multi-use spaces that are bigger and more adaptable, to make life easier at all ages. What we loved:
  - Appliances – LG Signature Kitchen French Door Refrigerator. It features reduced depth for easy access, LED lighting for clear visibility and the bottom drawers are interchangeable between freezer or refrigerator storage.
  - Lighting – A well-lit home is a safer home for all. Natural light plays a huge role in mental and emotional health of all, especially those living alone. Motion sensor lights not only conserve energy but are helpful for moving around your home at night. Toe kick lights on bathroom vanities are also helpful.
What sparked their inspiration at KBIS?

Color, color, color

Colors are a true reflection of our environment, and the impact our health has had on us the past few years. We saw color in appliances, cabinetry, knobs and drawer pulls, paint, tiles, and more. The reigning colors included:
- Green—evoking nature, outdoors, organic feel
- Blue—evoking a feeling of trust
- Pink—suggesting calmness
- Taupes—moving us away from grays and bringing earthiness and serenity
Artfulness

Art can make us feel and react in different ways. Our designers were so intrigued by the artful designs they saw that turned sinks, tubs, shower flooring, shower drains, countertops, tile, lighting, and range hoods into pieces of art for your home.

Outdoor living

The options are endless for taking cooking and entertaining outdoors. The days of a grill on a patio have been encompassed by outdoor kitchens complete with refrigerators, waste containers, sinks, cabinets, countertops, and pizza ovens. If you want something from your kitchen outside, it can be done!

KBIS always brings our Team new ideas, excitement and energy! We’re ready to incorporate these new products and ideas into our projects for 2022 and beyond.

Fun & Inspiration from KBIS in Las Vegas!

Are you ready for a remodel? Our Team is here to help you love your home again. Contact us to get started!

Interested in tile design trends? Read our blog post Tile, Design & Home Remodeling to learn about innovative designs in tile.
May 17, 2022
Patio & Deck Season is here!
Are You Ready?

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

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

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

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

Outdoor Living Room

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

Furniture features

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

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

Lighting

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

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

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

Summer Shade

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

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

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

Cook in an Outdoor Kitchen

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

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

Outdoor Office

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

Are you ready to make some changes?

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

Did you put off remodeling during the height of the pandemic? Did you recently buy a home that requires some time and attention to make it your own? Were you going to move, but just can’t find a new place to call home?

Your home has become more than a place to come to after work over the past few years. It’s transformed into the center of most aspects of your life! Serving multiple purposes, such as an office, a school, a safe place to entertain, a gym, and your retreat for self-care. You’ve realized that the community where you live and the home you love is where you want to stay. But it needs to be more than what it is now, for it to function for your family.

We get it—a remodel of your kitchen, first floor, bathroom, or the whole house, needs to happen sooner rather than later—you want to do it now. At The Cleary Company, Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, OH, we want nothing more than to start your project as soon as we meet with you. But there is a process and the challenges of our industry right now are creating delays in everyone’s timelines.

What do you need to know before you call a remodeler?

The pandemic brought forth many unforeseen issues, many of which, have challenged the construction industry. While we aren’t lacking for clients or new projects, (in fact, we’re busier than ever!) there are many factors right now affecting our schedules. If you have completed a project in the past five to ten years, expect it could now take double the time to complete.
- Supply chain issues continue to cause delays. Appliances, windows, doors, and other vital construction items are taking longer than normal to ship and arrive. The good news is if you’re willing to select an in-stock item vs a custom item lead times can be significantly shorter.
- Manufacturing of materials, as well as the distribution of them is taking longer. The semiconductor chip issue does affect some appliances, but beyond that most manufacturing plants are not at worker capacity, and some raw materials still are still in short supply. All of this means products are not being made at the rate they were before coupled with the higher than expected demands. Luckily, we work with some amazing vendors, that are doing everything they can to get us materials.
- Costs have continued to increase. We have all heard what has happened to lumber prices over the last two years, but other items we need, have risen as well. This means the bottom line for your project has increased. Keep in mind it’s never going to be cheaper than right now. Although some costs may stabilize or even drop slightly, overall most prices will continue at their current rates or even rise further.
- Labor shortages for skilled trades were an issue before the pandemic and since then the problem has only gotten worse and has started to lengthen the time it takes to complete a project. While we feel blessed to have such an amazing Team and trade partners, we are still hiring, as are most remodeling companies. Check out our open positions here!
- Utility companies (water, electric, gas) are suffering from the same issues as stated above. This trickles down to us when we need to do work that involves them. This means we could be waiting on them to come out to the site to take care of what is needed for your project.
- Surging home prices and lack of available inventory has made the decision for many people to just stay in their homes and remodel them, rather than try to purchase a new home.
Our Team will help you through this process.

Remodeling your home is important and we understand! Our job isn’t only to complete your project, but for us all to be a part of the same Team. We take what we do seriously and pride ourselves on having a solid, well-respected reputation.

When you work with The Cleary Company, you can expect:
- Honesty
- Transparency—we will let you know what we are dealing with and how it could affect your project
- Realistic expectations
- A positive working relationship
- An open dialogue
- Timely updates during the construction phase of the project
- Proactive problem-solving to keep your project moving forward
- Innovative ideas
- Your vision comes to life
How can you create a positive remodel experience?
- Do your research – be prepared with a vision and a budget
- Remain flexible and understanding when a problem or issue is discovered
- Be honest and forthright with our Team
- Keep realistic expectations for the timeline
- Be patient
With all this, we encourage you to start a conversation with our Team now and not wait. The sooner we talk, the sooner you get into the queue and the sooner we can build your project. The entire remodeling industry is in high demand, and we want to get your project ready to go. The phrase — “Together, we can accomplish anything” is the standard we work to achieve. Ready to set up that initial meeting so we can share in your vision for your remodeled home? Contact us here.
April 20, 2022
George Cleary & His Team Win 2 National Awards

The month of April not only brings showers but also many accolades for George Cleary! His birthday is on April 26th and it was April 16, 1994, when he created The Cleary Company. In addition to celebrating 28 years of remodeling in Columbus, Ohio George and his Team are also celebrating a couple of new national awards.

Biz X Awards Presented by ActionCOACH

On April 3rd at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, George, along with over 150 finalists from businesses across the country received awards in 30 categories at the ActionCOACH Biz X Awards. The Cleary Company was the finalist in two categories – Best Overall Company and Best Community Impact/Corporate Responsibility. Winning the latter!

Brad Sugars, CEO & Founder of ActionCOACH says, “The Biz Awards recognize excellence and growth our coaches and their clients have achieved. As the lifeblood of any local community, we recognize the power and contributions small businesses make every day.”

ActionCOACH was established in Brisbane, Australia by Brad Sugars in 1993 when the concept of business coaching was still in its infancy. Since franchising the company in 1997, ActionCOACH has helped business coaching become more mainstream. Worldwide the company has nearly 1,000 coaches in more than 70 countries. ActionCOACH specializes in coaching small to medium-sized businesses as well as executives, and their teams. Visit actioncoach.com for more information.

George (back row 2nd from left) along with other business owners and their coaches from ActionCOACH Columbus.

Guildmaster Award Presented by GuildQuality

Four days later on April 7th, George received notification of another award! The Cleary Company received its 5th Guildmaster award from GuildQuality. Guildmaster winners demonstrate exceptional customer service within the residential construction industry. Out of nearly 2,000 eligible applicants from across the country, The Cleary Company is one of 400+ businesses recognized for consistently delivering superior customer care. Qualification is achieved by receiving a recommendation rate of 90% or above as rated by their customers surveyed by GuildQuality.

Since 2005, GuildQuality, a third-party customer satisfaction surveying company, has powered the Guildmaster Award to recognize and celebrate home building, remodeling, and contracting professionals demonstrating the highest level of customer service within the U.S. and Canada. For more on the 2022 Guildmaster Award and qualifications, click here.

April 16, 2022
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!

April 11, 2022
Tile, Design & Home Remodeling
Any innovative design takes advantage of current style trends and although our Team is always on the lookout for what’s new we also try to stay true to classic design principles. Cement, ceramic or porcelain tiles are not only functional elements of your home remodel but can also add color, texture and personality. A hallmark of any good design is balance between function, form & character.

When selecting tile during your home remodel, whether it’s for flooring, backsplash or fireplace, our Design Team at The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, Ohio will collaborate with you to find just the right product.

Tile Trends for 2022

Artful tile designs can create beautiful configurations by mixing colors, textures, patterns, sizes, and shapes. Cleary Design Consultants Shannon Tannehill & Margot Sheehan recently returned from KBIS, the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show in Orlando, Florida. They spent several days taking in all of the new product offerings from plumbing and cabinets to countertops and appliances as well as tile.

Below is a list of the refined trends they found for tile in kitchens, baths and laundry rooms!
- Bringing nature into your home with hues found outside your window and lifelike features such as stone, wood grain textures and concrete all bring the look and feel of natural design to your remodeled spaces. Unexpected shapes for tile likes leaves, waves, feathers, or ribbons can also create a stunning look.
- Using geometric shapes and placing them in interesting patterns makes a layout unique. Examples from Art-Deco designs include triangles, diamonds, chevrons and ellipses. Traditional classic examples include penny tiles, hexagons and arabesques.
- Mosaics are small pieces of tile that are held together in a sheet. They can come in many different shapes, sizes and be made out of glass, metal, stone, real pebbles, porcelain and more. Some designs create a specific pattern and others can be more random. Our Design Team likes using them for pops of color to add interest!
- Prints and patterns used in tile designs and how they are installed have truly endless options and can establish whatever look you desire. Mixing and matching from different types is tricky but our Team’s extensive experience ensures excellence in the design and the installation.
How does tile impact the design?

The most popular remodeling projects that include tile are Kitchens & Bathrooms.

Tile can take an area from boring to beautiful with some careful planning. A laundry room or bathroom floor with a pop of whimsy, a backsplash with some bling, or a bathroom shower wall that takes you outdoors, all can have a place in your design plan.

The words that come to mind when we think of tile design for this year and beyond include serenity, pattern, nature, textures, color, and glamour.
- Choose a different finish on the tile to impact the result of the design. Glossy or matte finishes create visual cues, as well as changing the design aesthetic.
- Let your personality shine by transforming the way a room looks and feels with tile. Using different lay-outs, textures, and color, all help make the space unique.
- Contrast the grout color for even more flair or keep it neutral so that it doesn’t stand out—options abound.
- Keep it simple for the look you want or go bold and unexpected for more flair.
- Use tile in a room to revamp a space, create drama, or just elevate the look.
- As more of us are working from home, why not add tile to a feature wall in the office or just in a space behind or in front of your workstation? Think how that will change the boring background of your Zoom calls!
Where to buy your ceramic or porcelain tile in Columbus Ohio?

With over 27 years of remodeling in Columbus, Ohio our Team has developed relationships with the finest suppliers in our area. Our experienced Design Team knows where to find perfect tile for every project. Although we have displays and samples in our design studio from all of the following they do have their own showrooms.

Hamilton Parker

Our favorite go-to tile studio! When we visit their showroom with our clients, it’s just like going into a candy store. There are so many options to fit every style and taste. They are a distributor of many different tile brands from across the US and around the world. We appreciate the wisdom, guidance, time, and care their dedicated tile consultants give to us and our clients. Randi Garris, HP Merchandising Manager, says sanctuary spaces are a top décor trend, “People want a relaxing, Zen-like vibe. Your home doesn’t just need to look good—it should feel good to be in, too.” We agree!

Emser Tile

Emser is the largest privately-held designer and marketer of tile and stone in the US. They import and distribute tiles from all over the world. Their local showroom has a dynamic selection of fashion-forward products and is open to the public.

MSI

The MSI goal is to contribute to a world where anyone can afford to create a beautiful space to live, work, and play. Like HP MSI has so much more to offer than tile. Whether you are designing a new home or updating an existing space homeowners can explore and select from a vast range of stunning surface solutions. Their website has some great design tools to aid in making selections. Good news their new showroom is opening in summer of 2022 on the east side of Columbus!

Daltile

Daltile is the country’s leading manufacturer and distributor of tile. Their claim is they’re the best-selling tile brand in America. Their local sales center and showroom only sells to trade professionals however consumers are allowed to browse all of their tile and stone products.

Whatever you plan on renovating, our Design Team can use tile to elevate your project’s plan. Our goal is always to make your dream come to life!

If you want patterns, colors, shapes, and visual interest in your next home remodel, contact us today! We have some great ideas to share with you…
March 1, 2022
Suburban Colonial Home Updates It’s Curb Appeal | Upper Arlington, OH
Project Spotlight: A traditional 2-story Colonial home built in 1942 in Upper Arlington, OH has it’s exterior transformed creating a new curb appeal. The curbside view of any home is an important first impression to your neighbors and visitors. The homeowners, past clients, hired our Design-Build Team to brighten up and upgrade the architectural details to their home of 25 years.

Before

After

Front Exterior Home Remodel – Upper Arlington, OH (2020)

Scope of Work:
- Design-Build a new portico on front entry
- Paint front exterior
- Install new garage and front entry door
- Install new shutters
- Upgrade electric and install new lighting fixtures
Project Developer Jayde Boyd
Designer Matt Zimmer
Project Manager Justin Juenger, CRPM

How Much Does an Exterior Home Remodel Cost?

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 or do you also want to change the architectural details of your home’s exterior?

Read our Blog for articles that address these questions and more!
- Click here for helpful information for pricing your next exterior home remodel project.
- Read this article to learn how 4 exterior upgrades can boost your home’s value.
Or Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today to schedule a consult.
February 17, 2022
Using Smart Technology in Your Home
How smart is your home? How smart do you want it to be? Smart home devices are plentiful and can help you do so much more in your home, hopefully saving you some time! Most devices are pretty easy to integrate into your home. Some, as simple as plug and go, a little help from your WIFI, downloading an app, or spending a bit of time reading directions. However, connecting your whole house with products and systems that work seamlessly together takes some forethought and planning.

The Design Team at the Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus Ohio facilitates many conversations about smart technology with our clients while creating their custom remodeling plans. Asking questions like –
- Will you need more outlets in the kitchen or office?
- How many areas will need charging stations?
- Where will control devices and speakers be placed?
- What devices do you plan on using?
help us create a plan and scope of work that is unique to your project. This collaboration helps create a home as smart as you need it to be.

The preferred vendor we utilize when we need guidance and support is CHS (Central Home Systems). You can see and touch their products throughout our office. Their team is well-versed on everything a home needs to be energy efficient, smart, and automated. We know that if we come to them with an idea or question, they can make it happen!

Another resource our client’s utilize is EZ-Integration located in Dublin. Both companies provide the skills of multiple specialized companies under one roof. No need for a separate installer for Security, Smart Home and Audio Visual entertainment. And more importantly, both provide excellent service and knowledge to our Team and our clients.

Smart Home Technology Options

Devices:

Amazon Echo, Google Mini, Google Nest, or other voice assistant smart devices, not only are they speakers for music, but they help us find items, check the weather, control appliances, set timers, among many other helpful functions. Their possibilities are pretty endless and will only continue to evolve over time.

Speakers:

Wireless smart speakers allow music streaming anywhere inside or outside your home. Many of them can pair with Alexa or Google Nest, making music listening easier than ever. Most of them work simply by plugging them in, downloading the app and connecting to your WIFI. George is a huge fan of Sonos!

Blinds & Shades:

Hunter Douglas has a line of automated shades you can control from anywhere by using their app. Energy efficiency, privacy, and convenience at the touch of a button. Visit Home Source Custom Draperies and Blinds located in north Columbus OH at 727 Mount Airyshire Blvd, 43235 to see the full line of Hunter Douglas products.

Appliances:

Kitchen appliances continue to develop new features for convenience and energy efficiency. Do a Google search for smart appliances. You’d be surprised what you can find!
- A slow cooker controlled from your smart device
- An electric range featuring IQ-touch digital controls
- The refrigerator with a built-in camera to help you see what you need while at the grocery store. Some models also have the ability to play music
- How about an electric fork that tracks your eating habits!
Thermostats:

Do you have a smart thermostat yet? This device learns how your family heats and cools the home, all while it learns your routine. Having this device can help with overall comfort and supply some cost savings. And if you leave for a period of time, you can turn up the heat or turn down the air conditioning before you arrive back home. Comfort at the tap of your phone or activated by your voice.

Doorbells & Security:

A doorbell is not what it used to be—now it is a home security camera, a way to talk with the UPS or Amazon delivery person, or chat with your neighbors. Along with these doorbells, many of our clients choose to have home security cameras installed. If you are away, this is an added sense of comfort and safety.

Doors & Locks:

Do you forget to close your garage door at night or when you leave to pick up the kids from school? Smart garage doors can be programmed to close at a specific time or from a tap on your phone. In addition, smart locks for your doors continue to evolve and change and offer both added security and monitoring.

Your home can be integrated more now than ever. While some of us might not be ready to have our home be that smart, others of us are saying, “Bring it on!” Whatever the case, our Team can help you navigate your way through not only the renovation but help you make your home even smarter.

Contact our Team today to get started on your next project!
January 19, 2022