Sometimes we remodel because we just bought a home and we’re deciding to give it our own flare, or because the house we’ve lived in for a while hasn’t been updated in forever, or even because we’re planning on putting it on the market and believe it will add substantial value to it. Either way, it’s a challenging process that is made easier by months of planning on your own, even before you talk to the professionals.
There are so many sources for inspiration out there, along with many terms that you have to familiarize yourself with in order to understand everything that goes into the process. Because of the array of options you should open yourself up to the many platforms that are perfect for generating and putting together ideas that flow together.
Undoubtedly one of the greatest and most useful platforms available for everything from exterior to interior design, as well as remodeling projects great for inspiration, Pinterest is one place you can’t just pass by. Searching for anything as simple as “Gardening Ideas” to something even more complex like “Building your own home,” can each generate a hot bed of results for you to research and obtain information from. You can look for color ideas, see your ideas come to life and even use someone else’s design to reach what you’re looking for. It’s a great way to get something visual to look at while you’re trying to explain it to everyone else. And if you’re someone that love “Do it Yourself” projects, you’ll love Pinterest.
Design Software
This is a more complex approach, and really dives right into creating the specifics of what your home will really look like once the remodeling is complete. You can configure the room to make sure your favorite items fit well. For example, if you’re remodeling your kitchen, you’ll be able to make sure the dimensions of the cabinets, walls, and appliances all work together perfectly, and if you’re remodeling your family room, you can make sure the large flat screen fits well on the main wall, while the furniture and storage spaces fill up the rest of the space accordingly. Unlike Pinterest, this is one platform that costs money to use, and the prices vary depending on the quality of the system.
Design Magazines
Another source that costs money, buying magazines can provide you with some great visuals ready to put to fruition for you. A way to get around the costs is to visit the local library, or book store that has the magazines and spend some time reading it. They come with great tips and columns from professionals who love to help, and you’ll quickly learn a few things or more that you weren’t aware of before.
Remember to enlist the help of your friends and family as well. We all have at least one friend or family member that has a creative side and would be a great source of ideas and recommendations. The last thing you want is to go through these renovations and not end up liking the results. It’s important to know exactly what you want before anything begins, and you can do that by enlisting the help of the above sources, as well as your friends, family and some experienced professionals.
If you’re looking for a home that would be a great fixer upper for you to personalize with your creativity, let us know and we’ll be glad to help in your search. If you’re renovating in order to be able to increase the value before you sell, we’ll be glad to take as much off your back as possible! Merit Co. is here to help!