When it comes to renovating or building in Calgary, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is “Why should I pay a renovation contractor?”  It’s true that some small DIY jobs make sense to tackle on your own, but for other little projects, and especially larger projects like kitchen renovations, basement developments, home additions, and custom homes, it is highly advisable to leave it to the professionals.  There are far more reasons than what we are showing here, but we’ve narrowed it down to what we consider to be the top 5:

Whether it’s a custom home you’re contemplating, or a renovation to an existing home, much of the planning process remains the same. Proper project planning considers many factors including the overall goals of the renovation project, functional requirements, lifestyle needs and desires, architectural elements and interior design preferences. When you start a renovation plan, it is always good to compile a file with photos of rooms, homes, or design styles that you like from magazines, books, websites, etc. Photos can easily convey your renovation concepts what words sometimes cannot.

The following checklist will assist you in thinking about the many decisions and elements that go into the proper planning and design of your renovation or build project. Some you may have specific ideas about - and others you may have not even considered. Either way, combined with a visit from the LivingScape Team to your home, this checklist can be a very valuable tool to initiate the thought process and dialogue necessary for a successful project, be it a kitchen renovation, basement development, or a full home makeover.

Often thought of as a necessary evil to hide pipes and electrical wires, the addition of a bulkhead in a kitchen, dining room, bar or bedroom can actually add a very chic design touch. Whether we are aware of it or not, as human beings we have psychological responses to spatial design elements.  Adding some interest to expansive spaces and ceilings that lack visual appeal can go a long way towards creating a better sense of comfort, style, and interest.  Beyond that, the addition of a bulkhead can accomplish some very specific design goals as well.

There is a no question that spring is one of the best times of the year to do a home renovation. The cold weather is finally gone and most homeowners have the motivation to get things done, especially when it comes to doing work on their home. It is also a very busy time of the year for home renovation companies, so it is essential that you book your renovation project as soon as possible if you plan to do one this year.

The peak home renovation seasons traditionally begin in the late spring thru summer, then again in the fall as homeowners clammer to have their renovation projects completed in time for Christmas.  However, depending on the nature of the project you plan, there are some very compelling reasons why renovating in the winter can be the better option.  

We all know that people renovate their homes for a variety of reasons.  Sometimes they have purchased a home, and while they like the neighborhood or the location, the home may not meet their own personal design tastes.  You know...floral wallpaper, pink walls, teal carpet, bleached oak – you get the idea.  Maybe the rooms of the home are too small, or too “chopped up” leaving homeowners desperate to create open spaces.  Often the house is simply outdated and requires some new life breathed into it, with more contemporary style.  Or perhaps the home is simply not large enough to meet the needs of a growing family who doesn’t want to move to a newer neighborhood.  The reasons are endless.