Renovations and Remodel

Architectural Digest--New Editor/Updated?

2011-02-04T12:46:00.000-08:00

Anyone who is planning or is in the middle of a remodel knows that the glossy shelter magazine is a very important cost effective advisor. Now one of the staples of the industry has a new editor-in-chief at the helm, Margaret Russell. Ms. Russell states "AD will always be the place to find the ideas, talent, and sources to make your dreams come to fruition."

The New York Times has featured an article about the transition of AD. As a new subscriber to AD, (first magazine arrived this week), I look forward to watching the magazine over the next week.

Entry Door (Mahogany Panel) Before and After

2011-02-04T10:07:00.000-08:00

Original door with stone facade.

Stone facade was replace by stucco finish. Glass choice provides privacy while still allow light in the entry hall.

Before photo interior view. One important improvement to several doors and windows was to size them correctly to allow the casing to not be encased in the ceiling. That's right. Click on the photo and you will see that previously the door was too tall for this area and the casing is in the drywall of the ceiling!

The architect recommended painting the doors for a more authentic look. We felt, however, if you are using a wonderful wood like mahogany, you must let that wood show. Mahogany wood was selected because of the door height to minimize warping.

Living Finish Oil Rubbed Bronze. Hardware by Ashly Norton. You can see the brighter appearance of the right hand handle versus the left handle. This is a living finish meaning there is not protective coating. This means over time the color will change and patina adding to the character of the handles.

Mortise lock. Allows free exit with choice of lock/no lock depending on the position of the bottom toggle.

Secondary Bath Before and After--More Details

2011-02-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

Vanity--Back splash in same material as counter top.

Light Fixture Centered over Mirror in Polished Nickel

"Egg" style hardware with back plate in oil rubbed bronze

Two matching towel bars. Towels from Restoration Hardware.

Detail of Harlequin Tile on Wall surrounding Tub

For interest, oil rub bronze drop hardware

California Title 24 Energy Saving Switches. Motion sensor for automatic turn off. Fan is on left hand side with ability to preset run time with automatic turn off.

Subway tile on walls and continues up around the arch.

Light in Shower/Tub

A linen closet was added by moving the door way for former alcove style entrance.

Secondary Bath Before and After

2011-02-02T19:13:00.000-08:00

After view of subway tile bath surround with shampoo niche.

View of arched bath surround with complementary glass doors and vanity with mirror.

Before photo shows the boxy lack of style.

The secondary bath had quite a dramatic improvement from the "before" design. The rooom was quite boxy with little architectural detail. The tub was offset which allowed for an awkward "seating" platform. This was never used for seating, but was a catchall for various bathing/shampoo products. The framing for the glass doors intersected the window.

During the remodel, we framed the tub in symmetrically to the window and added an arch with overhead light. The light is on a dimmer allowing for bright or dim lighting. To keep the room bright, we selected white tile for the tub surround and set it in a subway pattern. The pattern continues up the wall and through the arch. The arched area outside the tub was tiled in a harlequin multi-colored stone pattern. We used this same tile to line the shampoo/soap niche which ties the two together. The floor is tiled in crema marfil and a marble slab which complements the tiles was selected.

The tub, sink, and toilet are white. Walls are painted gourmet honey. Fixtures are in polished nickel and the glass doors are arched to match the surround. The vanity is alder stained in a midtone brown with matching beveled mirror. Over the mirror is a three light fixture in polished nickel.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T06:39:00.000-08:00

Walls in the Stairwell

2010-11-23T09:06:00.000-08:00

If your walls are not curved, it becomes easier to display collections of art.

More Iron Railing

2010-11-22T14:10:00.000-08:00

When we were planning our new stair railing, I looked everywhere I could find iron work to see the different kinds of options available.

This photo is from one of the hotels in Las Vegas. It shows the combination of brass and iron. Very classic. You can see that even though it is not ornate, the craftsmen did a very good job with the curved, scrolling portions.

This photo shows a leaf which the men craft from iron. It has been painted in a faux finish to highlight the element.

An elaborate example from Italy.

When we were planning our new stair railing, I looked everywhere I could find iron work to see the different kinds of options available.

The final photo shows my stair rail during installation.

Before and After in the Stairwell

2010-11-21T14:08:00.000-08:00

Before renovation, skylight with light fixture

Skylight removed

View from the top of walls, chandelier, new iron stair rail.

The transformation in the stairwell is amazing.

Before: How it looked
The wall of the stairwell is curved as shown in the view of the ceiling. The railing was a honey yellow oak. The ceiling included a blue and clear colored stain glass skylight which was surrounded by oak and from which a light fixture (glass and gold colored metal) was suspended. The skylight was odd because the actual skylight in the roof was not centered over this feature. Therefore, during the daytime it always looked half-dimmed. The shape of the skylight didn't compliment the curved walls.

Possible Solutions
My architect suggested changing out the stained glass with a specialty glass and having the oak trim of the skylight painted white to blend into the ceiling. A decorator who was helping me suggested removing the skylight and dry walling the ceiling. I thought the decorator's suggestion worked best for me because I would not be left with a feature which would compete visually with other elements in the stairway.

After: What we did
Once I decided to remove the skylight, I realized light fixture would be the focus; I found a very beautiful antique which was rewired.

Additionally, we decided to replace the old oak stair rail with one fabricated from iron. We wanted some scroll work but tried to keep the design more simplified because the curve of the staircase is fairly tight. The iron fabricator painted the ironwork a dark brown/black color.We were very pleased with the results.

We used Dunn Edwards paint "Gourmet Honey" on the walls.

Master Bath Before and After

2010-11-06T17:39:00.000-07:00

Before

After

We gutted the master and relocated the sinks, door, shower and water closet.

The house was built in the 80s. The baths and home had a color palette which definitely reflected that decade. The master bath was a shrimp-apricot-pink color. We choose a mellow golden color. The slab and tiles are a limestone called. The floor is a travertine. I used a very wonderful tile supplier which I will mention many times in coming articles because the woman who helped me was brilliant with tile. She helped me select a wonderful onyx which really was the punch for the room. The paint color is .

Materials

Windows: Marvin with Oil Rubbed Bronze Handles
Bathroom Hardware for sinks, tub, and shower: Newport Brass 1740 series in satin nickel.
Sinks: Toto Rendezvous® Undercounter Lavatory with SanaGloss® #1 Cotton
Toilet: Toto Clayton Tank with Elongated Bowl #1 Cotton
Edge detail on countertops: Ogee with apron under (1/4" reveal)

Cabinet Hardware: RK International Hardware Satin Nickel-Crossed Indian Drum Knob
Cabinet hardware: RK International Hardware Satin Nickel-Lines and Crosses Pull
Door Hardware: Ashley Norton Oil Rubbed Bronze Chester with Small Arched Plate...special order of
Paint--Ceiling:
Paint--Walls: Dunn Edwards Gourmet Honey
Paint--Trim:
Lighting: Sconces
Lighting:

Time to Post Again

2010-11-05T09:19:00.001-07:00

I was so busy with the remodel, I never posted during the process. I am going to start posting some before and after shots. Additionally, I will add important learning during the process.

When Good Walls Go Bad

2008-05-09T10:29:00.000-07:00

So I thought I had made progress with the landscape remodel? Not so fast; let's see what happens with the forty foot long wall doesn't perform.

Here is the new foundation for my perimeter wall. The structure is massive long. First the crew had to excavate to five feet by 18 to 24 inches and then build this rebar cage. The city inspector came today and noted the whole rebar cage which was constructed has to be three inches from soil on all sides. The entire rebar cage will have to be lifted and placed three inches off the soil on blocks called adobes. Additionally, not all of the sides have three inch clearance, so more excavation to be completed.

Here is just a glimpse of the disarray in the garden.

For those wondering why the first wall failed it is because the property below the wall is sloped. That means a condition called soil creep can compromise the integrity of the wall. Therefore, if someone tells you they can build a simple wall without footings on your property, but your neighbor's property is sloped, beware.

Landscape Remodel: Progress Made

2008-02-17T18:25:00.000-08:00

This is a before and after photo of the grassy area of the backyard.

Nighttime Lighting

2008-02-12T13:54:00.000-08:00

Nighttime lighting really makes the garden come to life at night.

Ah! Spa

2008-02-03T11:18:00.000-08:00

The plastering is complete and the water is back in the spa. The plaster needs to be conditioned for the next week, and then the spa is functional again. I love the mosiac koi.
Alan Smith Pools was my plastering contractor. They are very professional and a pleasure to work with.

Patio Before and After

2008-01-21T22:05:00.000-08:00

Spa: Update of Progress

2008-01-21T11:21:00.000-08:00

I have been remiss in posting progress of my backyard remodel. I have photos and I will be posting series of them to record the progress to date. I am waiting on the tile and plastering to finish the spa.
We are almost at the end of the journey.

notes with Landscaper

2007-12-24T11:13:00.001-08:00

Day/Knight Notes on Front Yard Maintenance/Trimming

1. Liquid Ambers—shaped and pruned reducing height by 1/3.
2. Gardenias (by entrance)—remove ivy and jasmine, clean up sand and concrete left after installation of pavers
3. Podicarpus (by dining room/entrance)—trim, clean dead/old growth; remove knobs, approximately same height except for sucker growth at top.
4. Nandinas (by library windows)—leave nandinas (trim), except for two small plants near the drive
5. Planter Area near dining room windows—Leave calla lilies, xylosma (trim/prune to open up hedge, remove knobs—while still maintaining structure of the hedge), remove miscellaneous ground covers/plants in planter. Clean up sand/concrete from pavers.
6. Miscellaneous plywood sheets (two in front and two moved to back when demo was in process), metal pole and basketball hoop—remove.
7. Hillside beds on the right as you face the house—clean up ground vegetation, prune shrubs and trees removing dead and diseased branches. Remember to maintain a sense of privacy screen in this area while providing for a more visually attractive area. Deepen the size of this bed.
8. Front planters by street—remove roses. Prune Pink Hawthorne/remove knobs. Bulbs on left (let’s remove and I will plant in the vegetable garden area)
9. Podicarpus by garage—reduce height to somewhere in between the top of window and the bottom of the grey trim accent.
10. Xylosma (in front of garage) prune and open up as done in front of dining room area.
11. Xylosma (along drive)—prune and open up as done by dining room area. Create larger walkway area by garage.
12. Agapanthus (along drive)—clean up, remove pups
13. Increase bed size around agapanthus with bender board
14. Hillside beds on the left as you face the house—remove volunteer plants, clean up ivy growing over shrubs.
15. Walkway on left side leading back to the gate—remove grass in this area and replace with mulch. Discuss how bender board is placed to keep sense of walkway to back.
16. Catch basin from drainage system will be taken back a little, collects and drops to the street surrounded by stone. (Discuss about idea of loose stone. Maybe something more permanent in nature?)

Additional REMARKS on Landscape Proposal:
Hold on Plantings near windows/house until after completion of new window installation and stucco work.
Will review lighting to determine number of lights needed.

Discuss irrigation placement and type near the library windows, entrance, and bed by dining room

Lighting for the Garden

2007-12-12T12:09:00.001-08:00

This is the lighting which we selected for our backyard. The color will be black instead of the green finish.

Fountains from Roger's Garden in Corona Del Mar

2007-12-02T08:34:00.000-08:00

I am looking for a fountain for my back patio. Here are a few examples I found at the very special garden shop, Roger's Gardens. If you are in the Orange County, California area and are a gardener, you would enjoy a visit to this wonderful nursery. There are plants galore and everything beautiful you need to beautify your home.

Fountin websites
Trevi
Al's Garden Art
Henri Studio

Thompson Building Supply

2007-11-30T12:13:00.000-08:00

Thompson Building Supply
Inventory includes stone for garden use.

Spa Plaster

2007-11-29T11:35:00.000-08:00

I spoke with Alan Smith Pool today. I think the plaster I will use will be from Gemstone and is called Tahoe Blue.

Spa Tile Selected

2007-11-27T21:12:00.000-08:00

Spa Tile Selected

Spa With Brown Tile

2007-11-26T18:31:00.000-08:00

Spa Tile and Coping

2007-11-26T17:39:00.000-08:00

Here is a sample of the tile Wayne has suggested for the spa. The coping will be a natural stone.

Chat with the Landscaper

2007-11-26T12:46:00.000-08:00

Well, while we were away for Thanksgiving, the landscape work continued. I spoke with Wayne today about several things.

First, some of the pavers have a little too much of the surface "tumbled" and look more like they are broken than weathered. Wayne says we can have those removed and replaced with less weathered pavers.

Next we talked about the coping for the spa. Wayne showed me the cap stone for the pavers we are using and we decided it would be too rough to use in the spa. He is going to get me some samples of alternatives.

I asked Wayne to get me the samples of tile for the spa and the barbecue. I requested a little lead time so I could actually make a decision without the pressure of needing the answer right away. He said he would accomodate.

Finally, he said the rain screed in the bedroom area was within the allowance of the local code.

Samuel Heath

2007-11-26T12:40:00.000-08:00

The minute I saw the word "stockist" on the web site, I knew I was looking at a web site from a company located in England. I am very excited about

Samuel Heath

because they sell some great hardware which will complete my windows once installed. I am thinking specifically about Casement Stays with locking pins. This will allow me to have the casement windows open slightly but with the ability to "lock" the window to a limited opening.

Points to discuss about the landscape remodel

2007-11-18T12:15:00.000-08:00

Landscaping November 18, 2007
1) Fire Pit

a) Following set back required by HOA
b) Proposed design of the fire pit/extra warmth/glass versus lava

2) Drains

a) Current number versus number in the plan
b) Missing drain in the spa area

3) Discuss proposed configuration for the patio cover
4) SPA

a) Drip lines for pots in the spa area
b) What is the proposed coping for the spa?
c) What is the proposed tile for the spa/counter?
d) Self Filling Mechanism with estimated cost
e) Has water line for spa been created?

5) Selection of pavers
6) Discuss possibility of using stone for paving the “walkway” area in the plan
7) Selection of fountains

a) Spa Area
b) Perimeter Area

8) Walkway Pavers to the fire pit
9) Discuss the angular paving area outside of the family room door.
10) Discuss lighting on the building—location and style
11) Chris Bedroom

a) Discuss grading in Christopher’s bedroom area to be in compliance with code if we use out swing or sliding doors.
b) Drip lines for pot by Chris’s patio area

12) Ask about roses along the side walkway

Reconfiguring the Family Room Windows and Doors

2007-11-17T18:43:00.000-08:00

I have been working on a plan to center the family room windows and doors. I was having problems with the patio cover because the support posts are not in the correct location if the doors are centered. Today I worked in photoshop to come up with a plan which would accomodate the change.

Blueprints and Plans Discovered in Planning Department

2007-11-17T12:13:00.000-08:00

I ventured to the planning department at city hall yesterday. I discovered that over the summer, some of the blueprints for my house were copied to a computer program. We were able to print some of the plans. Unfortunately, they did not print to scale but became distorted. It is interesting to see some of the original plans. Some of the details were changed in the final execution.

Lasertron Grill Door Panels in Stainless Steel

2007-11-15T13:35:00.000-08:00

I discovered a company which makes stainless steel door panels which can be used in outside applications such as grill areas. Their name is Lasertron, Inc. Their phone is 954-846-8600.

Brillant Woodworking in San Juan Capistrano

2007-11-11T10:31:00.000-08:00

Gabriel McKeagney, a fifth generation craftsman working in San Juan Capistrano, CA, is the founder of Tempo Carpentry & Design, Inc. His distinctive projects are artistic and functional.

Master Bath Versions From Eric G.

2007-11-10T16:45:00.000-08:00

Version 1

Close in existing door, move to the diagonal wall.
The wall of the shower is moved 12-14 inches making the shower wider. All angles in the room are 45 degrees: entry door, shower door, clipped corners on the vanities. Edge of the tub is curved. Toilet closet is smaller to move shower wall. Entry can have a single glass Frenchdoor or two small glass French doors which split in the middle. This version allows bed to be placed on the wall where the door used to be and the tv/entertainment unit opposite.

Version 2

This version creates a larger entry into the masterbath to give a better focal point when you enter the master bedroom. Both vanities are moved to the same side. Shower is much larger. This view would utilize the same floor plan as the master bedroom currently uses.

Version 3

Close in existing door, move to the diagonal wall.
This version flips the shower and the toilet closet, which would require cost of relocating the plumbing for toilet and shower. The tub sits in the existing alcove with a curved edge. Entry can have a single glass Frenchdoor or two small glass French doors which split in the middle. This version allows bed to be placed on the wall where the door used to be and the tv/entertainment unit opposite.

Links for Lighting Sources

2007-11-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

I found a great web site which has tons of links for lighting sources:

Lighting Innovation

October 16, 2007 Orco Pavers

2007-10-16T11:53:00.001-07:00

Wall to replace existing telephone pole wall.

These are the pavers my landscape designer is suggesting.

These colors would be blended. Selected to incorporate the gray tile roof and the new house color.
Example of pavers which are not antiqued.

September 24, 2007 Pool Demo Continues

2007-09-25T19:42:00.000-07:00

The pool demo continues. These guys are working hard.

September 23, 2007 Flooring Finishes Defined

2007-09-23T10:22:00.000-07:00

I am researaching hardwood flooring options today. Thank goodness of the internet and of course Google!

I found a great custom wood flooring web site, T. Morton & Company. Apparently you can request samples of their product. In looking at the options of "appointments," you can select none, distressed, sculpted, wirebrushed, or French Bleed. Not knowing what these different terms mean, I went in search of definitions.

None--Well, this "appointment" I know.

Distressed--also called wire brushed. This type of character marking is done by machine such as a wire brush. Less expensive technique than those done by hand.

Sculpted--also called hand scraped. Gives the look of older reclaimed wood. This technique is done by hand with wood scraping tools. This technique is more expensive than character markings achieved by machine.

French Bleed--Black stain is used to highlight irregular/distressed edges (side and end joints) of the design.

September 22, 2007 Great Idea Kitchen, Bath, and Lighting Web Sites

2007-09-22T11:46:00.001-07:00

I have been searching for ideas for my kitchen and bath remodels. I spent (too much) time today looking at web sites which have great design ideas with extensive photo galleries. And to save you time, I have posted their web addresses below.

Signature Kitchens & Baths of Charleston, Inc.
Kingswood The Kitchen Factory
Divine Kitchens
The Cabinet Studio
Peter Salerno Inc,
Hanover Lighting
Hinkley Lighting

2007-09-21T19:40:00.001-07:00

Our pool needed extensive repairs and so we decided to demolish instead. The crew is in the back with a very loud jack hammer as well as sledge hammers.

Our city has guidelines for pool demos. Three large holes are created in the bottom of the pool, the sides are demolished, but the shell of the pool can stay in the ground.

September 12, 2007 Landscaping and Decorator

2007-09-13T17:02:00.000-07:00

First, my landscaping requests were approved by the home owners architectural board. I contacted my landscaping company and they are working on scheduling me for the demo part to start. Yeah!

Next, my decorator called. She had updates on various things. Unfortunately, I have lost my voice, so we really couldn't talk. I will catch her next week.

September 10, 2007 Electric Outlet Cover in Kitchen

2007-09-10T08:59:00.000-07:00

This is a great camouflage of those covers for the electric plugs in the kitchen. Usually, you have great backsplashes and then the electric outlets stick out in an undecorated way. This outlet cover was "tiled" with paint to match the glass tile backsplash. Amazing job.

September 10, 2007 Pesky Window/Door in Bedroom

2007-09-10T08:47:00.000-07:00

I continue to research how to handle the ventilation problem I have in the child's bedroom. I was out visiting model homes this weekend. I found this great solution.

Of course, nothing is ever easy. This particular configuration is for a window which is 6'0". My opening is only 5'0". I am going to check with someone to see if there are some windows which are skinny enough to accommodate my opening.

September 9, 2007 Lighting

2007-09-09T08:59:00.000-07:00

I am doing a little homework on the lighting factor. California passed requirements in 2005 called Title 24. It requires the use of energy efficient lighting throughout the home. For example, lighting in the kitchen must come from 50% CFL and this is measured in wattage, not number of units.

In looking online for information about these requirements, I found a fun site from GE called the "Virtual Lighting Designer." This page lets you compare two rooms side by side using various types of lighting (recessed, pendant, table lamp). You can also select various rooms to test the lighting in such as home office, hallway, family room.

These pictures compare (first picture) using a general table lamp with decorative lighting from a floor lamp, wall lamp (second picture).

September 7, 2007 Renaissance Windows

2007-09-07T19:18:00.001-07:00

I am thinking about using this Renaissance French Door with operable sidelights in my son's bedroom. The room is a little unusual since the only ventilation is provided by a pair of French doors. You don't always want to have the French doors open with you want fresh air. This unit has operable casement windows on the side. The down side is that it is wood exterior which would need to by painted regularly. The good news is that the location is a protected patio area so the paint and wood would not get direct sun or rain.

September 7, 2007 GE Monogram® 42" Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator

2007-09-07T15:54:00.000-07:00

I saw this GE Monogram refrigerator in a showroom. I like the look of the panels instead of stainless. I notice many of the refrigerators with stainless surfaces have thousands of fingerprints. I think the panels could eliminate a very likely eyesore in my home. I find my family tends to leave behind many fingerprints.

Time Out for a New Bike!

2007-09-07T09:45:00.001-07:00

September 3, 2007 Restoration Hardware and Waterworks Lighting

2007-09-03T18:04:00.000-07:00

I was on Waterworks web site and found this very beautiful sconce.

My decorator had shown me something similar at Restoration Hardware.

September 3, 2007 Waterworks Copper Tub Cost a Pretty Penny

2007-09-03T17:39:00.000-07:00

I was cruising the information highway and stumbled upon the bath of the century. This tub is beautiful, I will admit. Copper exterior with tin interior. However, the price tag is astronomical--$29,000. This would definitely blow the decorating budget in one purchase. For those with deeper pockets, this item is available from Waterworks.

September 3, 2007 Master Bath--Am I a Pillar Person?

2007-09-03T08:27:00.000-07:00

My decorator has been busy creating a plan for the master bath. It is important to work on this plan now. We don't want to install windows and then not have it fit in the final plan.

So, she created an idea involving pillars or columns. It seemed a little too grand for us at first. Then I found this great photo on HGTV's web page. Now, this isn't the exact look our bath would have, but I saw the final look isn't too ostentacious. So I'm thinking about it.

August 31, 2007 Master Bath Tub from Oceania Baths

2007-08-31T09:29:00.000-07:00

In researching tubs for the master bath, I found one which I really like. Oceania Baths is the manufacturer. Rather than jets, the bath uses air bubbles which are released from a channel in the sides of the tub. The results are an aeromassage. Once the tub is empty, the channel is drained and air dried. This keeps the tub a little more hygenic.

August 29, 2007 Bathroom Tile Blues

2007-08-29T17:24:00.000-07:00

Color of Sink/Toilet in Bath
Tile I Like
It is my own fault. I decided after reading about marble that it is not tough enough to stand up to my two sons. They are not the neat and tidy types. So I told the decorator we needed another type of counter surface. At first, she thought she could use a brown Silestone. But now she thinks it doesn't tie in with the other products selected. So she is rethinking the tiles and countertops. While I was scouting out stone today, I found this local store which supplies stone and tile for baths and kitchens. I really liked this tile for the kid's bath. It is from a company called Gainey Ceramics. I'm not sure it goes with the sink color we ordered though.

August 29, 2007 Bouquet Canyon Found

2007-08-29T17:15:00.000-07:00

I have had success in finding stone to replace the stone at the front of the house. When we remove some of the windows, the stonework will be removed and cannot be reused because of the way it is cut. Finding this stone will allow us to do the demo without having to come up with another way to finish the facade at the front of the house.

August 29, 2007 In Search of Canyon Bouquet

2007-08-29T13:55:00.000-07:00

We have stonework on the exterior of the house. When we replace the windows, this stone work will be removed and hopefully replaced. We will need some new stone to replace the old because of the way the windows are installed. I was told they don't mine this type of stone anymore. However, I found a stone supplier right in my very city who says he carries this type of stone. I am going down to see his selection and take some photos.

August 28, 2007 Windows Meeting

2007-08-29T07:24:00.000-07:00

I had a very long meeting with my decorator, a contractor and a really wonderful window supplier. We met to go over many details of my job. I need a final bid on the cost of the windows as well as an estimate or at least a worst case scenario for the cost removing the windows, installing the windows, repairing the stucco, repairing the drywall, trimming the inside of the window and painting the window and trim.

I confirmed some of the details of the windows.

1. The exterior will be white
2. The interior hardware on the windows will be white and casement cranks will fold.
3. The grill/mullions will be 1 1/8" thick.
4. The French door hardware is still to be determined.
5. The spacer bar is spec'd between the windows. The spacer bar gives the appearance of true divided light.
6. If we add the exterior "brick mould" which Andersen calls auxiliary casing, I need to get in writing that Andersen's warranty is still in effect.

Various exterior casings from Andersen

Our meeting also included walking through the house and making sure each of the windows spec'd were going to fit in the existing opening. We decided to make a few doors a little smaller (1") than the current opening instead of going to the expense of moving the headers. The contractor also suggested we eliminate the window in one of the closets as a cost savings. We changed the windows in the bedrooms from double hung to casement to allow for appropriate egress without having to reconstruct the header.

The meeting ended up being about 2 1/2 hours long but we really defined all of the issue. Final things which I still need to clarify is the function of the windows in library (should they be fixed or casement and if casement which will open.) as well as finalizing the entry door.

August 28, 2007 Andersen Windows

2007-08-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

I stopped by a supplier of Andersen Windows yesterday. I ended up spending about an hour talking with someone who really knew his stuff. He provided me with some brochures and from his own books, he gave me two spec sheets which outlines which sizes of Andersen will meet egress code for bedrooms.

One question which I have had about Andersen was about brick molding. Brick molding is a trim feature which is placed on the outside of the window frame. I was under the impression that Andersen didn't have a brick molding. He showed me two items called installation accessories (vinyl trim board and auxiliary casing) which can be used in this function. That puts Andersen back in the running for my windows.

August 24, 2007 Home Owners Association Packet Prepared

2007-08-24T09:10:00.001-07:00

I worked diligently yesterday and finished my packet of materials for the Home Owners Association Architectural Committee meeting. I wrote a two page letter outlining the changes. Here is an excerpt and the supporting exhibit of the new window design:

Windows and French Doors— remove and replace.
Anderson windows.
Exterior white (same as current windows).

Please note the following changes to the front elevation.
(See exhibit B)

1. The contractor cannot guarantee the cast concrete trim around window E and garage window will remain intact. This type of material is no longer available. We plan to eliminate the cast concrete trim around these two windows if it is damaged upon removal. The proposed front elevation shows this change.

2. Garage window (exhibit A) to be modified to a new mullion pattern.

The meeting is in September. Hope it goes well.

August 21, 2007 Busy Meeting

2007-08-22T23:01:00.001-07:00

Beverly met with me today and we accomplished so many things!
1. Selected exterior housing color
2. Selected exterior lighting fixtures
3. Went over the detailed plans for the children's bath and noted any final changes. We are making sure the soffit is redrawn at the correct height. Additionally, we want to verify the trim in the shower matches the height of the backsplash over the sink. We added an outlet to the new storage area for a radio. We changed the light switch order to first position are the CFL lights(sconces and shower). Second position are the incandescent downlights. The third position is the fan. 4. We reviewed the countertop material. Beverly had a nice composite stone countertop in a color called coffee bean which we will use in place of the marble.
5. We discussed the entry door. We decided to use stained wood and selected a nice stain color.
6. We selected two drawer and door fronts for the cabinetry in the children's bath. Bev with send these cabinets out for bids.
7. We added the shampoo/soap shelf to the drawing of the shower area.
8. I was surprised Bev plans no window treatment in the shower area. I would have liked something here.

August 21, 2007 Exterior Paint Colors Selected from Dunn-Edwards

2007-08-22T21:49:00.000-07:00

I have been busy preparing my packet of information for the HOA. My decorator met with me today, and we selected paint colors. The house is Almond Latte, the windows are Frosting Cream, and the house trim is Pike Lake. These colors come from Dunn-Edwards. My scanner didn't keep the color as true as I would have liked. The Pike lake color is a rich deep gray with blue undertone.

August 20, 2007 Home Owners' Association Approval

2007-08-20T16:14:00.001-07:00

I live in a community managed by a HOA.

I know certain areas of my remodel will require their approval. The next meeting is the first Thursday in September. I am required to get any plans for approval to them by the end of the week.

Currently, the things for which I need approval are

windows,
stone work change around windows,
paint/trim color selection,
entry door,
possibly any light fixture changes.

Also, I am not sure if driveway changes fall under the architectural committee or the landscape committee.

The community management company is faxing my an application form which I must return with two sets of plans and $50! Yikes! I just read the Architectural and Landscaping Standards and Association Rules. You cannot believe the detail they specify in the rules. I hope I can provide all the info they need.

August 18, 2007 Entry Door All Options Covered

2007-08-18T11:01:00.000-07:00

This door includes features from each of the previous doors which I liked. First, the shape is similar to the entrance with a graceful arch. Next, the door offers the more traditional look of the door Kathi found but with the solid door and side lights which have been etched, you get a little more privacy. I think something like this in the right stain or paint would be just what we would like!
Further modification without the top light which I think makes it look even more traditional.

I found this door on a site called Country Heritage.

August 18, 2006 Bath Fixtures

2007-08-18T09:34:00.000-07:00

I purchased bath fixtures for the children's bath yesterday. I worked with a really great sales person, Rosie. I ordered a Toto toilet, Kohler sink, Grohe and Hansgrohe faucet and shower fixtures. I feel very good about the purchase because the store where I purchased has deeply discounted prices.

August 17, 2007 Entry Door Jeld Wen

2007-08-17T09:16:00.000-07:00

My friend Kathi found this awesome Jeld Wen door which might fit the style of my house better than the door below but still has the same arched shape. I think this has potential.

This is another example of an arched door with a more traditional style which I found in Southern Living Magazine.

August 16, 2007 Entry Door

2007-08-16T12:02:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo of my current entry door. We are planning to replace this door in the remodel. One reason is because of the awkward installation on the interior of the house. I believe the person who built the house didn't measure properly for the door because currently the door trim actually is embedded in the ceiling at the tallest point. (See photo below.)

I went to the internet and found this great looking door from Hubbard Iron Doors. I photoshopped it into a my entry picture. I think it looks very nice in the space. Oh, and my friend said her husband would like this door, especially if it comes with the blonde! LOL

August 15, 2007 Decorator: Guest Bath

2007-08-15T20:29:00.001-07:00

Counter selection:"
We moved forward with plans for the guest bath. Bev selected a beautiful stone with golds, browns, and grayish green. She modified the tile to go with it to one which is a little more golden. There is a fabulous accent trim tile which accents the grayish green in the stone.

Cabinet: The cabinet will be painted. The sink will be centerd in the cabinet and this will still allow for ample drawer space on each side of the sink.

Window: The window will be covered with a flat Roman shade.

Bev will be creating a CAD drawing.

August 15, 20007 Decorator: Children's bath

2007-08-15T20:12:00.000-07:00

Bev came by today to discuss windows and to work on the bath designs.
Windows:
I updated her on info from Richie. We decided that the hardware should be in the silver tone (like brushed nickel). We also decided the exterior color should be the white version.
Bath:
We decided the children's bath cabinet needs to be a little smaller (4 inches) in width so the small wall at the end fits the space better. Since the cabinet is smaller, we decided to go with a little smaller version of the sink Kohler Ladena sink.
We discussed the tile pattern in the shower area and Bev described that while her CAD drawing shows approximate the tile placement, she will work with the tile craftmen after the area is demo'd and remudded. Her goal will be to center the pattern both based on the window and the entire area. We will also select the location of the shampoo and soap shelf.
The seat will be finished in the same tile with the top piece overlapping the bottom and sanded/finished to a smooth edge.

The shower glass will be approximate 81 inches tall to reflect the height of the door into the area with moulding. We should remember the replacement moulding is going to be a little taller than the old moulding. I don't know if an inch will make a difference.

The tile/counter selection is a travertine for the tile and the counter in a deep brown marble. Small squares of the brown marble will be used in the shower area to define the perimeter of the shower floor and to create a pattern in the wall tile.
Counter selection:

A new "closet" area is being added in the entrance area. We discuss the doors for this area. Bev wants to give it a more designed look and will use the same door fronts at the cabinetry for the sink. It will be divded in two sections--top and bottom.

August 15, 2007 Windows: Andersen versus Loewen

2007-08-15T20:00:00.001-07:00

I visited my window supplier's home this afternoon. He wanted me to see the installation of windows with brick moulding and without brick moulding. He says Andersen does not offer brick moulding and Loewen does offer it. The brick mould does make the window look more substantial.

Cost impact? Already the Loewen is a bit more expensive. And now the brick moulding will up the cost more.

I liked the hardware for Andersen a little better.

August 15, 2007 Windows

2007-08-15T15:06:00.000-07:00

I met with Richie today about windows. He is a very patient professional and encourages me to ask all the questions I want. Boy, that is a relief, because I had a few items I felt I wanted to discuss.

We are either going to install Andersen or Loewen. The Anderson are a bit more economical and offers a stronger warranty. I also like some of the features. For example, I like the smaller grids available through Andersen better than Loewens. If I decide on the wider grid (1 1/8 inch) then it is not as important. Loewen offers a brickmold to finish off the exterior of the window which Andersen does not. That might end up being the deciding factor.

Richie invited me to come to his house to see his Andersens since they are installed in stucco without the brick mould. I will see if I like the way it looks.

August 13, 2007 Children's Bath

2007-08-13T07:49:00.001-07:00

I have to remember to ask Beverly about what her plan is for a Shampoo/Soap Shelf in the Children's Bath.

August 11, 2007 Kid's Bath

2007-08-12T08:45:00.000-07:00

I talked with Beverly today about my project.

I asked about adding a soffit in the children's bath over the shower area. She said she would draw one into the plans.

We also discussed lighting. In California, we have requirements to aid in lowering the use of electricity in the house. The first light which is turned on in the bath must be flourescent. We agreed that the lights by the mirror would be flourescent and the light over the shower would be flourescent as well. These would be on one circuit and all come on at the same time. There will also be some canned down lights over the sink area.

Even though the room has a window, we agreed a fan would be a nice addition, especially in the winter when the room can get steamy and windows won't be open.

We made an appointment to meet sometime on Wednesday (time TBA) so we can review materials and discuss the next bath...the guest bath.

Panoramic View Windows

2007-08-11T17:46:00.001-07:00

This panoramic view shows windows which will be replaced. The window in the garage will be redesigned to look more substantial in the arch area. The windows in the room on the right side will be shorter and the stone work will be the same height all the way across.

I photoshopped a photo to show the way it will look after the new windows are installed.

Panoramic View

2007-08-11T17:46:00.000-07:00

August 8, 2007

2007-08-08T12:39:00.001-07:00

I have completely reviewed the window plans and the children's bath plans. I made copius notes and then called Bev on Tuesday afternoon. I am waiting to hear from her.

I spent the last hour organizing my notebooks with costs, plans, and photos. I think I will call Bev around 1 so I won't be interupting official lunch hour. However, I am not sure she lunches at a regular time.

August 6, 2007 Windows and Bath

2007-08-06T21:40:00.000-07:00

I have been busy looking at the CAD drawings of the windows made by Richie. I had hoped all the windows in the CAD drawings would be in the same scale. Alas, they are not. So what this does not afford me is the ability to look at each window and the grids/muntins/mullions and determine how the overall perspective.

I am assuming the drawings are good for the most part. I do have some questions, however.

Here they are:

1. What are the dimensions of the wood members which make up the muntins?
2. In the arched windows (Library, garage, stairwell) what is the actual configuration of the muntins in the arched section?
3. What is the hardware selection?
4. Do we want double hungs in the family room?
5. Do we need to change to casement in the bedrooms?
6. Revisit the window size in the library. How does the smaller window height look from the exterior?
7. Library windows. Selection of the location of the casement windows versus the fixed window.
8. What is the trim package like for the exterior of the house?
9 What is the overall cost with the new specs on the A windows versus the L windows?

Also, Bev had the contractor come out to the house. She tells me that some of the cast concrete might not survive removal. Therefore, we probably will lose the detailing around the garage window and the library window.

Finally, we agreed to move the door to the children's bath which will allow us to include a linen closet in their bath.

August 3, 2007

2007-08-03T11:29:00.000-07:00

We are starting with the children's bath. I spoke with Bev today. She is going to pay for the window for the bath and I am reimbursing her upon reciept of invoice from her.

She also will send plans out today for the bath's design.
She changed the color of the bath items to biscuit because it will match the color of the stone better.
We also discussed wide set faucets versus single unit. She likes the wide set for the style of sink (rectangular) because it balances the size better. I selected the Grohe brand.

Here is my favorite fixture (this is the kitchen version).

A House in Need Should Be Remodeled Indeed!

2006-10-30T09:03:00.000-08:00

Most of my adult life has been spent moving. My spouse worked for Pepsico in their restaurant division (when they had a restaurant division*). Our first move was to Louisville, Kentucky, (KFC) in 1990. Over the decade we moved every two years or so. This many moves did make me a "professional mover" of sorts, it also meant that we barely got the boxes unpacked when we were packing up again. This meant that we never were in a house long enough to have the house require any home improvements beyond touch up paint to hid a few scuffs on the walls when we put the house on the market.

Then we moved to California in 1999 (our fifth move). All of a sudden, it is seven years later. Looks like we are keeping this house for an indefinite period of time. This is a lovely home which was built in the mid-1980s. So if it were a horse instead of a house, it would be a little long in the tooth. The baths and kitchen are all original. Even the walls throughout the house, while having had a few coats of paint to refresh them, are the original popular 1985 color of mauve.

We decided it is time to update, renew, remodel. This blog is the chronicle of this experience. I will be posting pictures of the before and hopefully the after. I will post my experiences in finding professionals to help me with this project. I will also post my experience in selecting products to replace.

*In the late 90s, the restaurants were spun off to a newly created company called Tricon International which now trades as YUM.

A Remodel is In Your Future

2006-09-21T15:41:00.000-07:00