Tag: Kitchen Remodeling

Kitchen Remodeling Costs in Columbus, Ohio
How much does a Design-Build Kitchen Remodel Cost?

Calculating the cost of any remodel requires knowing first the design, scope and size of the project and this is especially true for a kitchen remodel.
- Does your kitchen need to be updated?
- Would a remove & replace facelift or swapping out all the “pretty stuff” like countertops, hardware and fixtures fit your needs?
- Does your existing kitchen fit the needs of your family?
- Do you need more space and function in your kitchen’s layout?
- Do you want an open concept floorplan with removing or opening up walls?
- Do you want to expand the footprint of your kitchen by building an addition or repurposing underused spaces?
To help you get started planning your next kitchen remodeling project, our Design Build Team at The Cleary Company has assembled the following project examples and ballpark budgets. We also recommend reviewing Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs Value report for additional information on building and remodeling costs in Columbus OH.

Design-Build Open Concept Kitchen Expansion Remodel

3 Projects – 3 Budgets – 3 Scopes of Work For Kitchen Remodeling

Luxury or Gourmet Kitchen remodels – Estimated Price Range $180k – $300k+

Bexley, OH AFTER

Bexley, OH BEFORE

Upper Arlington, OH AFTER

Upper Arlington, OH BEFORE

Possible Scope of Work & Finishes:
- Increase square footage of footprint with an addition or combining rooms
- Move and/or add plumbing and appliances plus increase lighting and electric
- Quartz countertops, custom tile backsplash and heated tile or exotic wood floors
- Plenty of custom cabinetry and a large island (or two!) with seating and storage
- High-end gourmet appliance package
- Greatest number of choices for finishes and materials
MID-RANGE – Estimated Price Range: $150k – $200k

BEFORE

BEFORE

BEFORE

225sf Dublin, OH

310sf Dublin, OH

152sf Marble Cliff, OH

Possible Scope of Work & Finishes:
- Remove & Replace all cabinets, fixtures & finishes
- Reorganize layout changes for greater efficiency
- Remove soffits
- May include whole or partial removal of one wall plus new drywall and trim
- Professional-style appliances and upgrades to lighting and electrical
- Quartz countertops
- Custom cabinetry including an island
- Refinish existing or install new flooring–hardwood or tile
Example of floorplan updates for Marble Cliff, Ohio kitchen remodel

Refresh or Facelift – Estimated Price Range: $70k – $90k

Possible Scope of Work & Finishes:
- Updates to existing finishes & fixtures
- Little to no changes to footprint or layout
- Plumbing and electrical remains in current locations
- Reuse some or all of existing cabinetry
- Or install some new or all new cabinetry
- Limited finish and accessory choices
- Mid-level granite or quartz or HD laminate countertops
- Mid-level appliance package or reuse existing
- Keep existing drywall and trim and paint only the remodeled area
- Basic flooring choices- reuse and refinish existing hardwood or install new LVT
Are you ready to get started on the new kitchen you’ve been dreaming of? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today! Visit our website or call 614-459-4000.

For more inspiration visit our Kitchens Gallery!
January 26, 2023
Selecting Cabinets for Your Kitchen Remodel
A major part of the aesthetic of your kitchen remodel is reflected with the cabinets you choose. Do you want painted or stained? What material and style? What price point will fit your budget? Do you keep your existing cabinets and refresh or update them? So many questions!

Our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio is here to help you navigate your way through a kitchen remodel and your cabinet choices. We have remodeled many kitchens and the discussion around cabinets is an important step in the development of your project. Second to appliances, they can be the biggest investment of your remodel, so knowing what you really need is a key part of the discussion.

Cabinet Budget Categories

In the cabinetry industry, there are 3 main categories. They are stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinetry. They come in all styles, price points, and materials. Knowing your options is a great way to start to narrow down what will work best in your kitchen. We have installed many types of cabinets and will work with you to create the best option for your kitchen.
- Custom cabinets are built by a skilled cabinet maker or carpenter that can correctly measure and work with the layout and size of the room. The materials chosen and the quality of the cabinet maker will affect the price, but the end result is cabinets expressly made for the design of YOUR kitchen. The ability to choose different woods, glass, or metal creates limitless possibilities. We prefer this option for a majority of our projects. The quality and expertise of central Ohio cabinetmakers is unmatched by any other category!
- Semi-custom cabinetry is also a viable option. They are built by larger manufacturers that also build stock cabinets, but they have created a process that allows them to make modifications to their stock cabinets so that they are able to offer some of the benefits of true custom-built cabinets. You can get the look of a custom cabinet at a lesser price point.
- Stock cabinets utilize standard designs, sizes and trim pieces with limited selections of material and finish types. They are factory produced in larger quantities and typically have a quicker ETA than custom or semi-custom options. The biggest benefit though is cost savings. Most companies still build their cabinets to fill specific orders, but do so in a standardized process to limited specifications. It creates efficiency in manufacturing and typically allows for a more budget-friendly option. When using stock cabinets, the kitchen floorplan must utilize set dimensions of the cabinets in order to create a functional space. The cons—they don’t have as many design and finish options as custom cabinets do and there can be dead or wasted spaces depending on the layout and sizes available.
- Reuse or repurpose your cabinets. Sometimes reusing your cabinets can be a feasible choice. If your existing cabinets are solid wood and are in really good shape, then refreshing them is a good option. Some updates we can make to your existing cabinets to give them a new look are:
  - Replacing the doors and drawer fronts and keeping the frame boxes.
  - Refinishing them with new paint or stain.
  - And the simplest and most economic option, replace the hinges, knobs & pulls.
Painted or Stained Cabinets?

It is a big decision, paint or stain? There are pros and cons to both. It really just depends on the type of cabinets being used, the design style, your preference, and the benefits or challenges for both. Our Design-Build Team will work with you to sort through all of these options.

Paint
- Creates a crisp, clean look.
- It conceals the character of the wood species and creates a sleek uniform finish.
- If you desire white or prefer bold dark colors, then painting is the best option.
- The finish of paint is easy to wipe clean.
- But the finish can be difficult to touch up because of a custom color or matching the original sheen and most often touch-ups will be visible.
Stain
- Allows the grain and natural character of the wood species to show through.
- Highlights the beauty of natural products and the variations provided by the growth process are not monolithic in color or tone.
- The finish can be more forgiving with touch-ups and in general, wears better than paint.
Shaker style grey painted in Upper Arlington, OH

Contemporary flat panel stained in Upper Arlington, OH

Shaker style white painted New Albany, OH

Raised panel style stained in Lewis Center, OH

Shaker style white & dark grey painted in Upper Arlington, OH

Shaker style painted island base with stained perimeter in Dublin, OH

Choosing your kitchen cabinets hinges on several factors.
- What is your budget and how do you want to allocate the funds? Knowing that the cabinets are a large focal point, investing in custom or semi-custom cabinets is an effective use of your money.
- What is the layout that will work for you? If you are refreshing your kitchen and not altering the existing footprint, then choosing semi-custom or stock cabinets might be the right choice. And of course, if your cabinetry is solid wood or in really good shape, paint and refreshing might be the option that works for you.
- What features are important to you? If you’re going industrial or modern, then glass, steel, and painted custom cabinets will create that aesthetic. You want to work with the décor you’ve chosen, the personality of the space, and the style of the home.
Special Features

Let’s not forget about the special features that can personalize your kitchen and meet your needs. Visiting a friend’s house, wandering through a cabinet store, or searching the internet can help you start to figure out what you want to splurge on, and what might be worth it.
- Soft close drawers and doors are the most important option we recommend to our clients. No one loves the sound of cabinets banging closed.
- The knob, pull and hinge options are endless. Showcase your style, create a mood, add some bling, stay traditional or somewhere in between.
- Organization and ample workspace is key to functionality. How do you cook? Specialty drawers and cabinets can be designed for all your storage needs!
  - spice drawers that slide out
  - hinged lifts for mixers or small appliances
  - pull-out pantry shelves
  - utensil and cutlery blocks or dividers
  - specialty spaces for baking sheets
  - deep drawers for pots and pans
Pan rack base pull out

Utensil holder base pull out

Deep base drawers for large pots

Appliance base lift shelf

Deep pull out base shelves

Pull out cutting board & bread drawer

Cutting board drawer & base receptacle pull out

Base knife block & spice pull outs

Blind corner base pull out shelves

There’s nothing we can’t figure out a way to store it and make it work for you!

Choosing quality cabinets should be the one thing you do. Choosing cheap or inferior quality cabinets will make it difficult to get the look and function you are looking for in your remodeled kitchen. This is not the place to save a few bucks. The function of the cabinets is particularly important, and we will talk with you about how you use your kitchen, what essentials you have and what you want from your kitchen design.

Are you ready to remodel your kitchen? Contact us here or give us a call at 614-459-4000. Our Design Team is waiting to chat with you.
January 24, 2023
2023 Home Design Trends
It’s a new year, so that means our Design Team at The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus Ohio is looking at what’s trending in home design. While we love the classics, some trends are worth looking at and incorporating into projects for our clients, especially kitchen and baths. After all, some trends are here to stay!

The NKBA recently released its 2023 Design Trends Report where they surveyed almost 600 industry members. We’ve combed through the information and summarized it below. So, grab a cup of coffee or tea, settle in and spend a few minutes reading.

Storage & Functionality are a Must
- Kitchens and bathrooms are top spaces that need more storage and better function.
- Remove or open up walls to add more storage and define spaces.
- Increase the footprint of a kitchen to add space for a larger pantry, beverage bar, second dishwasher or other additional appliances.
- Larger islands and in some cases two islands, provide better functionality for dining, food prep and homework or work-from-home needs.
- Increase or rearrange the footprint of a bathroom for a larger shower, more closet space, or even a sitting area.
- Incorporate Universal Design principles into your new bathroom. Features such as low or zero-threshold showers, benches, grab bars, and wider doorways are a key part of functionality.
- Keep countertops clear of small appliances. A well-designed pantry can be more than just a place for spices and staples.
- Select fixtures and finishes that are easy to clean for your updated kitchen and bathrooms. Materials like quartz countertops and panels plus large format tiles limit or eliminate grout and are easy to clean.
Oh, We Love Some Color
- Shades of white still dominate, as well as the use of wood tones but color is making it’s way back into kitchens and baths.
- Greens and blues are perennial top choices for kitchens, but don’t be afraid to dip into other colors on the spectrum.
- Incorporate bold accent colors like a non-shiny metallic, matte black or brushed gold.
Be Environmentally Friendly & Connect with Nature
- Choose products made with sustainable materials and by companies whose practices are gentle or help the Earth.
- Fixtures and finishes like LED lighting, VOC-free paints and energy-efficient appliances, head the list.
- Choose more oversized windows and add glass doors to bring views of the outdoors inside.
- Outdoor living spaces create a connection with your indoor spaces and increase the livable space in your home.
Let’s Not Forget About Technology
- Choose technology for your home that increases its function and efficiency.
- Install motion-controlled lighting and touchless faucets.
- Choose appliances that are multifunctional and can do “everything,” making life easier.
- Use mobile devices or voice controls to control appliances, lighting, music and tv’s.
- Smart or programable controls in bathrooms help with shower and faucet temperatures, heated floors, bidet toilets, mirrors, and lighting.
As our Design Team works with clients, we see that kitchens and bathrooms continue to evolve into larger, multifunctional spaces. Many people are still working and entertaining at home, and that doesn’t seem to be going away. Make 2023 the year to remodel your home with our Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company!

Contact us to get started! Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website to schedule a phone call with our Client Relations Coordinator.
January 10, 2023
Choosing Lighting for Your Remodel
Do you need more? How much?

The Design Team at The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus Ohio is here to help! Through the design phase of planning your remodel, our experienced Designers and Design Consultants will educate and help guide you to make the best lighting decisions for your project. We prefer a layered approach of mixing different lighting types for decorative interest but also for better function.

Lighting can be a very personal choice as well. Many clients ask us to include more lighting, especially those with older homes because chances are there just isn’t enough of it. Some clients prefer a lot of recessed lighting to brighten up their home while others choose to use them sparingly. Lighting is categorized into four main types.

Just like each room in your house has its own purpose, so does each type of lighting.
- Ambient or general lighting provides overall illumination for a room. These can be fixtures such as recessed cans, semi-flush ceiling fixtures or chandeliers.
- Task lighting provides increased illumination for actions or spaces that require an attention to detail. Like under cabinet lights in a kitchen. Most often it is used along with ambient light.
- Accent lighting directs light to focus or highlight a particular area or object. Most common types are sconces, flood, or track.
- Decorative lighting’s purpose is to make a statement or adding character to a room. Sometimes the fixture itself can be art or a conversation piece!
Also, don’t forget to consider natural light when planning your remodel. These conversations with our clients about their lighting needs are always illuminating (see what we did there?). Our Design Team is here to help you through every decision. So, what type of lighting works best in each room?

What types are best for your space?

Kitchens:
- Recessed cans or pucks are fixed fixtures that provide overall illumination across the entire room.
- Task lights like undercabinet LED strips are needed above countertop work areas. Task lighting is also helpful above your range and sink. Pendant lights and chandeliers are the gold standards for island lighting!
- Accent lighting adds more function but can also add a bit of drama. Think about tape-lights and downlights to light up hidden areas or to feature areas in your kitchen, such as open shelving, or glass-front cabinets.
This kitchen uses a layered lighting design
utilizing 3 types ambient, task & accent

Dining areas:
- Recessed lighting, chandeliers, and flush-mount all serve well in a dining room. Create overall light with recessed and flush mount lights, and add some drama, mood, and decoration with a chandelier.
Living rooms/Family rooms/Bars
- Adaptability is the key here. You’ll want cozy lighting, reading lights, dimmable lights, as well as ambient lighting. These rooms multi-task, so the lighting needs to as well.
A home bar uses a combination of recessed can lighting (ambient), pendants (task) and pucks (accent).

Bedrooms and Bathrooms:
- This is where you get ready for the day, so plan on some well-lit areas within in these rooms. Sconces are a great lighting choice for both spaces. Fixtures that flank mirrors won’t cast unwanted shadows. In the bedroom, sconces that hang above the bed or to the side leave nightstand areas free for your favorite books or photos.
When used with recessed can lighting in the ceiling, sconces installed on sides of mirrors can help to eliminate shadows in your bathroom.

Rest assured, our designers will work with you to determine your family’s needs for lighting and help you create the best lighting options for your home.

Where should you buy lighting for your home remodel?

Retail lighting options are easy to find in the Columbus, OH area. Our preferred vendor partners are easy to work with, have our clients’ best interests at heart, and make sure to have what we need. And while we prefer to buy from our local vendors, we also know it’s may not always be the best option for your project. Our Team also has a few go-to online specialty lighting retailers.

Circa Lighting opened a new showroom in 2022! They’ve considered every detail of the lighting selection process from beginning to end to make your experience as seamless as possible. Enjoy the ease of a thoughtfully edited showroom and interactive digital displays that show their complete range of products at full scale. From a one-room refresh to whole home lighting design, their experienced lighting designers are equipped to develop multi-layer lighting plans to optimize the look, feel and function of any space at any budget.

Northern Lighting has the best selection of indoor and outdoor lighting on the northeast side of Columbus, Ohio. They’ve been serving local builders, remodelers and homeowners since 1973. Their entire showroom is dedicated to lighting and lighting accessories! Located in Westerville, it’s always an exciting visit looking up at all the unique and stunning lighting options. Their staff is filled with experts with a vast knowledge in lighting techniques and design. Our Design-Build Team collaborates with their experienced staff on both residential and commercial projects and relies on them to help solve lighting issues on our most complex projects.

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery has lighting for every function, style, and feature. We know that when our clients visit their showroom, they most likely will find what they are looking for. The same happens with our designers. If they have something in mind for a particular project, their associates will find the perfect options. Our connections at Ferguson have the knowledge, friendliness and vast selection of gorgeous lighting options and that is why our designers choose to work with them.

And the online options are endless! Two that we know our clients have used are Wayfair and Rejuvenation. Wayfair has many budget-friendly items as well as more expensive options, while Rejuvenation offers some cool and interesting styles. We’ve even had clients bring us lighting found from an antique or vintage store.

Chase Away Winter Blues!

Our designers have teamed up with Circa Lighting for our January Wine & Design open house. Join us on Tuesday January 31, 2023 at 1400 Grandview Avenue 43212 for a VIP tour with refreshments. For more details visit our blog or RSVP via Evite.

Lighting can completely transform a room. When we remodel your home, we are transforming how you live and function within those spaces. Lighting brings it all together!

If you have been illuminated by this article and are ready to begin your remodeling project, contact us! We will show you the light…
January 4, 2023
Kitchen Appliances Repair vs Replace
It’s that sinking feeling—you walk into the kitchen and the floor is wet because there is a leak coming from the refrigerator or dishwasher. You turn on the oven and nothing happens. Drying clothes that don’t get dry? You get the idea—the appliances aren’t working. Now what? Should you replace it or repair it?

As your Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company, we replace many appliances for our clients. But sometimes we have clients who want to keep one or more of their appliances. This isn’t usually a problem, especially if we know they are still in good shape. But if they may be replacing it 3-5 years after their remodel, we know it will take extra planning.

So what to do when an appliance fails? If it’s an easy fix, there’s usually no question about repairing it. But a bigger issue is one to stop and think about. What’s worth repairing and what’s worth replacing and how do you know?

Recently we read a report from House Method and found some great answers. House Method provides expert research on home service providers. Their reviews cover home warranty, pest control, and lawn service companies. They are a comprehensive source for home services research. Read the full report here.

Key Facts to Consider
- Over the last year, the inflation rate of appliance costs has risen an average of 7.8%.
- Typical households spent, on average, at least $354 per year on major appliances in 2022, compared to $214 in 2013.
- Most of us will need to have an appliance repaired every couple of years.
- Supply change issues continue to make it harder to get new appliances and, in some cases, replacement parts.
- Appliance prices continue to increase. (You know this if you’ve been looking)
- There’s more wear and tear on our appliances due to a year of more of work and school from home!
Repair or Replace

A study from the United States Public Interest Research Group notes that the average family could save $330 per year by repairing appliances, instead of replacing them. Weigh the pros and cons of the value, the life span, and the cost for repair of the appliance as opposed to replacing it. Also, consider the following—
- Repair costs include service fees and replacement costs but can save money since you aren’t buying a new appliance.
- Repairs generate less waste in a landfill.
- A home warranty (a service contract that can be purchased) extends the coverage of appliances past the manufacturer’s warranty.
- Most appliances last for 5-7 years, with repairs every 2-3 years (on average).
- Replacing might be the best option if you want new features, better efficiency, and lower repair costs.
Review the chart below to help you decide if you want to replace or repair.

House Method—How Much Americans Spend on Home Appliances, July 2022

Of course, sometimes a repair isn’t worth it if the problem is too big or expensive, parts aren’t available, or you can’t find someone to do the work!

Tips to Extend the Life Span of Your Appliances

Regular care & maintenance can save you money and expensive repairs down the line.
- Clean the clothes dryer lint trap after every use.
- Empty or rinse the dishwasher filter every few months.
- Microwaves and ovens work best when cleaned.
- Keep vents clear from debris and clean filters as needed.
- Empty the refrigerator and freezer occasionally to get rid of unwanted food and clean the shelves.
- Vinegar and baking soda are your friends. Do a website search for the best ways to use them on your appliances. We like the cleaning tips on this website.
Repair or replace? Ultimately it will come down to several factors—age, cost, what the repair entails, energy efficiency and what your needs are.

Need of a remodel? Give us a call at 614-459-4000. We’d love to design and build your vision for your home.
October 19, 2022
Home Remodeling Experience Matters

A look into the best certifications for remodeling industry professionals (it’s why we’re so good!). Our Production Team combined has over 300 years of construction and remodeling work experience.

Back Row – Thomas King, Kuba Bursey, Dan McCallister, Rob Lindeboom, Gavin Majikas, Gary Dilley, Don Holmes, Mike Seyfang, Luis Gomez, Matt Ames, Jamie Herbst, Tristan Ballinger, Aharon Woodruff, Zach Minniear, Dan Irwin, Ethan Howe, Tyler Mitchell
Front Row – Jon Fichtner, Chuck Osborn, Joey Davis, Joe Hamlett, Justin Juenger, Ed Bangert, Dave Elliott, Ben Ludlow

Since creating The Cleary Company in 1994, George has always surrounded himself with talented craftsman. He believes that education and safety are of the utmost importance in the remodeling industry. Hiring people who share those values and take pride in working for a company that offers continuing education is key during the recruitment process.

From formal CEU classes administered by our industry partners to informal lunch-n-learns hosted by our vendors, our Remodel-Design-Build Team regularly participates in webinars and live presentations to improve their skillset. Knowledge of new products and trends, personal growth and continuing education keep us at the top of our game.

Wouldn’t you want the doctor performing your operation to be the best of the best? Your house is no different! You can feel comfortable knowing that when you work with The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus, Ohio, you are working alongside professionals that take pride in their work.

Why NARI?

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry is an organization of high-quality remodeling professionals. Its members are committed to integrity, high standards, professional education, ethics and market recognition. NARI is the medium for business development, a platform for advocacy and the principal source for remodeling industry intelligence.

Only full-time, professional remodeling industry professionals are eligible for certification by NARI. You can be assured that any time you hire a NARI-certified remodeling contractor, you are hiring an individual who has made a strong commitment to the professionalism of the remodeling industry. And because remodelers are not eligible for certification until they have been actively involved in the remodeling industry for at least five years, you know that NARI certified remodeling professionals have developed the experience and skills that can only be gained through extensive hands-on practice. NARI means remodeling done right!

It’s good to know that your remodeling contractor has a long-term commitment to his or her career. Click here for the full list of our Team’s certifications.

Do you value experience and continuing education? If so, contact us today to get started on your next home remodeling project. We also invite you to visit our Meet the Team page to learn more!

July 28, 2022
Designing for Accessibility in Your Home Remodel
There are many reasons why you may be ready for a remodel. Do your dated rooms feel old and tired? Does your home function for your current lifestyle? Or maybe you’d like to create a more accessible home to accommodate different life stages and abilities.

Our Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio takes our remodeling designs seriously and wants to be sure they are accessible for all. We collaborate with our clients to create a design plan that considers these and other accessibility challenges in their home.

3 Types of Accessibility Issues to Consider:
- Visual — Use color to highlight or complement what is already visible but also ensure sufficient contrast. Paint door frames and doors a lighter color than the walls.
- Motor/Mobility — Choose solid surface floors throughout like wood, tile or vinyl and minimize the number of transitions between materials. Eliminate or reduce the use of rugs or carpets. Wider hallways, doorways and traffic flow for accommodating wheelchairs, walkers, etc.
- Auditory — Creating a more open concept floor plan allows for unobstructed sight lines for easier communication. The arrangement of the room can also make a significant difference for those who use lipreading or sign language. Circular or horseshoe seating layouts work best.
Design Features to Consider:
- Single story living
- Limited steps inside and outside
- Wider hallways and entryways
- Open floor plans
- Low maintenance exterior and landscape
- Varying height countertops
- Easy-to-reach work and storage areas in the kitchen and bathrooms
- Walk-in or zero-entry showers
Terminology used for Accessibility in Home Design

Living in Place or Aging in Place — Both used interchangeably have become more popular as people want to stay in their homes longer. This means the home needs to be safe, healthy, and comfortable for everyone in the household, no matter their age or accessibility. Are there hazards, barriers, or floor plan issues that need to be rectified to create a design that all people can use, especially those with memory, cognitive or physical challenges?

Universal Design — Sometimes used interchangeably with the previous two terms. This approach to home design is to meet the needs of everyone. Regardless of age, size, ability or accessibility, a design is created, understood, and used by everyone, as much as possible. Read more about Universal Design on our blog.

An excellent example of such design exists right here in Columbus! This 3,500sf ranch home was built in 2009. It is not only the private residence of Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D and her husband, Mark Leder but also a one-of-a-kind national demonstration home called the Universal Design Living Laboratory. Our Team had the privilege of touring this amazing home in 2015. We appreciate our conversations with Rosemarie, whose personal work in Universal Design has been instrumental in educating home industry professionals.

Universal Design Living Laboratory – 6141 Clark State Road, Columbus, Ohio 43230

ADA Compliant — This term refers to actual code compliance rules included in the American Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design. An ADA-compliant home follows these codes entirely.

Visit-ability — This one is interesting because it isn’t so much about who lives in the home, but who is visiting. How will they navigate throughout your home if they are wheelchair-bound or have other mobility issues?

Areas to consider:
- Entrances and exits of the home
- Bathroom accessibility
- Bedroom access for those who can’t use stairs
- Hallways should be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters
Adaptable Design — This realizes an important middle-ground area in the designing of homes, putting it somewhere between full accessibility and a home filled with accessibility challenges. Creating a remodeled home that can easily be adapted to accommodate changing needs can save money over time if it is thought of now.

Are there products or design elements that can be put in place now, that can be used later? You may not want a walk-in shower now, but will it be needed down the road? Does the structure behind the walls need to allow for grab bars to be added beside a toilet or in a shower? Does the island have an area that is lower, allowing a wheelchair to be rolled up to it?

NARI UDCP – Universal Design Certified Professional

The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, Ohio is proud to have several Team members who’ve earned accreditation in Universal Design from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry!

Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP – Design Manager

Katie Florjancic, UDCP – Designer

Emily Perebzak, UDCP – Designer

Shannon Tannehill, UDCP – Design Consultant

The UDCP program addresses the key concepts of Universal Design as applied to residential remodeling:
- Conducting client needs assessments
- Universal design applications used in residential remodeling
- Construction techniques used to implement universal design to a remodeling project
- Plumbing and electrical systems unique to universal design
- Differences between model building codes and ones described in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
No matter what accessibility, aging challenges or planning for the future you might be doing now — our Design Team is here to collaborate with you to create the vision you need for your home.

Ready for a Home Remodel?

Get started today by calling our Client Relations Coordinator @ 614-459-4000 or by visiting our website.
July 18, 2022
Kitchen Remodel + More in New Albany OH

Project Spotlight: The layout of this suburban home’s kitchen and family room (built in 2004) was no longer working for the owners, a busy family of four with two teenagers. The Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company created a new open concept floor plan that is more functional and a better fit for their lifestyle.

The original layout of the kitchen, a large u-shape, had disconnected workspaces with small sections of countertops. The clients disliked the location of the cooktop on the undersized island. A small pass-thru window into the family room afforded some connection to the kitchen but the homeowners desired a more open concept design. Along with the kitchen remodel, upgrades were also made to the existing family room, mainly the fireplace and staircase.

As Built & Demo Plan

Kitchen workspace – BEFORE

Kitchen Eating Area – BEFORE

Stairs & Railing – BEFORE

Kitchen wall between family room – BEFORE

Family room wall between kitchen – BEFORE

Design-Build Plans Solve Issues

Removing the wall between the kitchen and family room not only opened up both of the spaces but also brought more natural light into the kitchen. The new kitchen layout has more continuous countertop workspaces but also features a much larger island with storage and seating for four. All the appliances were relocated for workspace efficiency and upgraded to larger models with more features including a new gas range. An appliance “garage” contains a coffee-tea bar and microwave that can be hidden when not in use.

Natural white oak wood accents throughout the new spaces like the range hood, pantry doors and fireplace mantles.

New Floorplan

AFTER PHOTOS – Kitchen

Along with the remodel of the kitchen, the family room also received significant upgrades. The open staircase to the second floor was brought to new life with paint colors that pull accent colors from the kitchen. The two-sided fireplace features the same mantle, facade and hearth in the family room and the kitchen which marries the two spaces nicely.

AFTER PHOTOS – Family Room

Watch this Video Tour!

To learn more about this project, read the magazine article featured on the cover of HouseTrends!

July 5, 2022
First Floor Remodel & More
Lindsey and Richard bought their 100-year-old Bexley home nine years ago, with the intention to remodel it over time. In 2018, they started the process, talked with another company, and received some estimates. Thinking they knew what the budget could be for what they wanted, they soon realized HGTV was not an accurate representation of their desired plan. They decided to think about it, and then COVID-19 hit. With Richard home more, they both realized that the renovation had to happen to make their home work for their family. The rest is history…

Q & A with Lindsey & Richard Bexley, OH

What was the goal for your remodel?

Our house was a mess! We needed better flow, more space, and more storage. It needed updated and brought into this century. The entire first floor was a priority, as was the upstairs primary bathroom. And we found out after demolition began, that our home was also unsafe!

An addition from the 90’s wasn’t structurally sound so they installed a beam to make it safe. Also, the entire electrical system was installed to replace all the original knob and tube.

What feature of your remodeled spaces are your favorite?

The closets (pantry & bedroom) are a favorite—I just love them! The new kitchen brings a lot to our life as a family. We have sightlines for every area and now it’s fun to entertain. Richard loves our primary bath. Our old one was so bad I refused to use it. It’s nice that we can both enjoy this gorgeous primary en suite now.

What advice would you offer to someone who is thinking of remodeling their home?
- Be ready for surprises!
- Know what realistic budgets are. We had no idea what we were getting into with our house due to its age and unexpected issues.
- Roll with the changes, be flexible, and be prepared.
Take a Tour of this Remodel!

The Cleary Company Remodel Difference

Why did you choose The Cleary Company for your remodeling projects?

When we were ready to begin the process, we spoke with three companies. The Cleary Company was the only one that asked us about our lives, what we wanted out of a remodel, whether we entertained a lot and whether we wanted it formal or informal. Robert noticed things other companies didn’t see, like our window air conditioning units in the 2^nd floor windows. Even with a new HVAC system installed two years ago, the house was still hot in the summer and cold in winter. Robert said they could fix that. That comment helped to seal the deal for us!

The extra level of getting to know us and who we are was a game-changer for us. The Cleary Company took the time to listen and get to know us, making our experience with them more personal. Now we have a dual-zone HVAC air system that we are in love with, and the home is the correct temperature year-round. We don’t think we would have gotten that, along with all of the room renovations, with another company.

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

I really liked the design process and picking out the materials and items. I found it to be really fun, even though I know some people might find it overwhelming. Our Designer took the time to get to know us well enough that our selection meetings were a breeze. All of the designs are aligned with our lifestyle and preferences.

Just for Fun!

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

Clarity! From day one everything was clear and spelled out for us.

Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

Yep-absolutely. Everyone we had contact with was great! We have a meeting with Robert soon to get started on our next project.

Want to Learn More?

Working with our clients is like working with family. We work hard to get to know you through collaboration to design and build a home that works for you. We are honored to be part of our clients’ lives, during the remodel and beyond!

Contact us today to discuss your remodeling project!
June 27, 2022
Remodel Right – Your Home Deserves It!
The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build Columbus OH knows that beginning a home remodeling project might feel overwhelming, but when you work with the right company it should be a TEAM effort! We aim to take the uncertainty out of your home renovation. With our experience and expertise, we can help make any project seem less daunting. Our Design-Build Team shares some home remodeling tips to help guide and prepare you through your next remodel.

Planning a Design-Build Remodel? So where do you start?

Do your research

Drive around your neighborhood and see who’s working in the area. Ask neighbors, family and friends for referrals. Once you have a list of several companies visit their websites, and narrow your list to those you want to contact.

Hire a professional

Certifications and memberships in local & national trade organizations show that a remodeler invests in continuing education and earns positive customer references. When hiring a professional, it is most important to find a remodeler you can trust and are comfortable communicating with.

Visit a job site

Ask for references and contact them. See what a project in construction looks like. The best remodelers maintain clean & organized work sites and welcome your visit.

Remember the big picture

Be honest and upfront with your desires and expectations. A good design-build home remodeling company’s goal is to produce a product that goes beyond the client’s expectations. They can only accomplish this with your input.

Lifecycle of a Design-Build Home Remodel

Development & Design

Proper planning can help keep your home remodel project on schedule and on budget. The Cleary Company has a thorough Team approach that guides you through each step and decision. It’s a fun, collaborative process!

First, we identify what it is you want to accomplish.
- Do you want or need to add more space?
- Or do you simply want a new floorplan within the existing footprint?
We will help you decide whether it makes more sense to reuse existing space or build an addition to meet your needs. Let’s explore all your options!

Second, we can help you establish a realistic remodeling budget by discussing the investment range you’re comfortable committing to. Through our Design Agreement phase, we’ll collaborate with you on the development and design.

Your Project Developer and Design Consultant can help determine if what you want is in line with the amount of money you want to invest. The goal is to create a functional design that meets your needs and that enhances the look and style of your home.

Pre-Construction Planning

After you sign a construction contract with The Cleary Company you’ll need to allow time for your project’s construction documents to be prepared. Our Team will convert the preliminary designs into detailed drawings specific to your local building and zoning code requirements. They will include calculations and specific details necessary to acquire building permits.

Permit plans typically consist of a site plan, floor plan, foundation plan, elevations, sections, product and material selections, and detailed notes to provide clear communication for a successful project.

Phases of Construction

Building your project is typically the longest part and toughest part of your remodel. The visual below is a simplified version of what happens in your home. For a more detailed description of these phases read our Renovation Lifecycle – Construction blog post.

A fun visual we post on our jobsites!

Home Stretch

Although the details of your remodeling project will be unique to you and your home, there will be several phases from demo to completion you can expect; demolition, mechanicals, and inspections followed by a time when the basics, from walls to wiring, are rebuilt or upgraded as needed and then more inspections. The home stretch begins with the installations of cabinets, appliances, etc. and finally paint, hardware, and other finishing touches will be put in place.

We hope you choose to experience your next remodeling project the way it should be done RIGHT. Contact our Remodel-Design-Build Team today to get started!
June 14, 2022