When I show up at a potential Columbia, SC remodeling job, I talk with the homeowners, get their list of dreams and desires and take a careful look at what we've got to work with. The layout of the current structure, the age and condition of the various areas of the home. I usually measure and record everything there. Room dimensions, door and window placement, ceiling heights are recorded. Digital photo's of elevations and details gathered now help me out later on. Visual inspection reveals a lot to the trained eye. The age location, and condition of the home give clues to the manner in which it was constructed. Things to look for are plaster walls or drywall, Standard or balloon framed, what was original to the home, and what was added later. How much insulation is in the attic and under the floor. Have any of the baths and /or kitchen been refurbished. Later on one of the goals is to produce a design that keeps the good stuff, and gets rid of the outdated or awkward stuff. No matter how good your design is, in the end no one is going to let you tear out a just remodeled bathroom just to move it somewhere else. If the kitchen is due for a makeover anyway, tearing out a wall and enlarging it usually isn't so bad. Gathering visual clues to the homes design and construction details helps you make your future alterations seamless. The ultimate goal for me is helping the homeowner with their needs, and creating a finished product that not only is aesthetically pleasing, but harmonious with the elements on site. When you finish with a good remodel, visitors should have a hard time deciphering what was original from what was added. Careful observation combined with a thoughtful design solution will accomplish this.
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