Garage Addition

This North End home was ready for an update.  The original wood siding was covered over with metal siding in the 70′s, as many homes in the area.  Sections of the roof were sagging, and the entire house was almost 3″ off level from corner to corner, making the new siding installation extremely challenging.  We also added a 500 square foot garage in the rear yard, with details harmonizing to the home’s finishes.  As this home is in the historical district, we were limited to any modifications to the exterior.  An exhaustive research resulted in no photographs of the front of the home to show that a porch wall had existed, fortunately, when we removed the siding, we could see evidence of a wall  – this allowed us to get approval for the short knee wall around the entry.

Click on photos to enlarge. To view more photos please click continue reading at the bottom:

Looking at the house from the front. Note the absence of a porch knee wall on the before picture to the above right. Also note the fascia line of the roof dips along the front of the home, especially in front of the dormer. Creative use of a steel brace hidden beneath the new fascia straightened out the dip. Most of the siding on the home was original, whereas the west facing rear yard wall was in rough shape and mostly replaced.

An after picture showing the rear face of the home.

Just visited a Kitchen remodel that started last week and found a kid’s height view window custom installed in the construction wall by Ed Lee, the project manager.   The children obviously appreciated the gesture!

Thanks for the window Ed!

North End Interior Remodel

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After. Before looking from the former dining room. The former Kitchen was separated from the Dining space, by removing the wall we combined the two areas. Dining spaces over the years have become less 'formalized', and by opening the area up, the space actually gets used.

After. Before. Looking the other direction.

After. During draft. The hallway was split up into three new spaces, removing the long hallway formally dividing the house.

After. Before. We removed the upper portion of the stairwell wall to open up the Kitchen space, and to allow natural light to trickle down into the basement through the two new skylights.

Before - All hallway! The sketch on the right shows the new layout. The hall is now entered through one location, going left takes you to the Master Suite, going right to the kid's bedrooms.

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Garage Addition Conceptual Design

We are designing a garage addition and have created several 3D models to help our clients better visualize the different roof options.  As we are trying to gain ceiling height in the new Garage (the existing is just under 8′), the fascia tie-in on new and old can be often be challenging.  Click on images for a larger view.

Addition with shed roof and no clip on existing roof

Shed from side.

A Dramatic Kitchen Remodel

A dramatic before and after kitchen remodel, with minimal disruption to the floor plan and exterior.  The former lower plan was divided into separate rooms based on the activity: a Living Room off of the entry, a Dining Room between the Kitchen and Living Room, the Kitchen, and a stepped down Family Room with direct access to the Garage.  The Dining Room was rarely used, in fact it had been temporarily converted into the child’s playroom, and the dining function was located into the rarely used front Living Room.  We decided to utilize the former Dining Room as part of the new Kitchen remodel by reducing it’s size and converting a portion of the space into a large walk-in Pantry.  A little confusing…hopefully the pictures will best explain the story:

Click photos to enlarge:

Cooktop detail. The clients drove the interior design on this project, with some professional help, but it was the clients' vision brought to life - for example, note the mix of cabinetry and counter top material. Beautiful.

 

We gained space by removing a room (unused Dining Room) at the far end of the Kitchen. That space was replaced with a large walk in pantry. We shifted the Kitchen over providing adequate seating at the table, and at the new raised bar. The former dining area was cramped and traffic flow to the exterior was obstructed.

 

SDR Awarded REMODELER OF THE YEAR by NARI 4 Years  Running

Strite design + remodel was presented with the award of “2011 Remodeler of the Year” by National Association of the Remodeling Industry of Idaho.  This award is given based upon the input of our customers over the last year, in areas including professionalism, integrity, fairness, workmanship and overall job performance.

SDR has been awarded Remodeler of the Year 5 times in the last decade (’02, ’08 – ’11) and First Runner-up 3 times (’01, ’04, ’07).

2011 Remodeler of the Year Award + Three First Place Awards!

Every year, The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) gives remodelers an opportunity to show off their best work by hosting a photo contest. This year SDR won three of the four categories it entered and came in second in the fourth. SDR was also named Remodeler of the Year this year for the fourth year in a row (to see more on this award see Strite’s blog post here).

Click on photos for a larger image and also project titles to view all before, during, and after photos.

1st Place – Kitchen Remodel Over $45,000 – See Kitchen Remodel 1 for more photos.

1st Place – Kitchen Remodel Under $45,000 – See Kitchen Remodel 19 for more photos.

1st Place – Bathroom Remodel Under $20,000 – See Bathroom Remodel 21 for more photos.

2nd Place – Exterior Under $75,000 – See Shade Trellis 1 for more photos.

Bathroom Remodel Boise Foothills

Part of a whole house remodel with 3 other baths remodeled, this bathroom remodel was long overdue.  The layout did not change, but we did remove the green bathtub (well, not really sure what it was) from the space.  We discovered some interesting wall paper, and figured that this bathroom had been through two previous remodels.

Click on photos to enlarge. To view more photos please click continue reading at the bottom:

After showing a floating cabinet, new tile and new shower for the Guest Bedroom. Before, green fixtures and shag carpet. Note the tub, it is only 48" long and half deep. Demolition! This bathroom had seen a couple of previous remodels. Note the wallpaper.

Bathroom remodel completed, with a new added function – a shower.

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Goodbye Blue, hello new Kitchen Remodel

A very clean Kitchen remodel – a drastic change from the former blue galley Kitchen.

Notice the location of the two windows on the right and the hanging chandelier as the location did not change.  Painted cabinets with butcher block island and Cambria counter tops (sussex).  Scroll down for several before, during and after pictures, including a 3D rendering completed during the design phase.

Goodbye blue cabinets…note the ceiling voids showing the former wall location.  We constructed a temporary wall (left) with a secure door to separate the living area from the construction area.  The large pipe is our filtration system to help keep the air clear of dust.

Master Bathroom Remodel in the Boise Foothills

Part of a whole house remodel, this Bathroom turned out beautifully.

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Completed Master Bath, next view looking same direction - note windows. The Master Bath before. We removed this 'peninsula' vanity, very oddly shaped Bathroom.

Kitchen Remodel in the Boise Foothills

We are slowly updating each post with notes – meanwhile, please enjoy the before, after and during pictures below and we will be back to add the full story to this project.  Thanks!

Click photos to enlarge:

After - The completed remodel. Before - The main Living space was separated into several areas. Our goal was to remove the two posts, and the two walls surrounding the Kitchen - no small feat as these posts and walls are supporting the second level. During - Demolition! The windows along the right have downtown views.

A Fallout Shelter Makes For an Interesting Basement Remodel

During the Cold War era, America was constantly reminded of the effects of nuclear fallout. Television, radio, newspapers, and even our schools conveyed the  frightful details. As a result, the masses sought protection by building shelters able to withstand the radiation and often stocked them with supplies like food and water. The December 1961 Popular Science article is a perfect example.  The first sentence of the article describes the atmosphere of paranoia perfectly: “People who built fallout shelters for their families used to keep it secret for fear they’d be considered crazy.” It also became so accepted to build a shelter that the article describes it as admirably prudent.

During construction of a large addition to a 1955 era home the owner’s decided that they wanted to update an existing basement bathroom.  We were a little surprised to find a do-it-yourself fallout shelter made of hand stacked bricks.  The original owner of the home was completely unaware that her husband (who had passed 10 years earlier) had built this.  This was not a shelter planned before construction of the home, this was remodeled in place, meaning that several hundred red bricks had been inserted into the overhead floor joists and walls one by one.  Where there was plumbing or duct work, each brick was meticulously notched to accommodate the pipe or duct run. Makes you wonder if he read page 59 from that same Popular Science magazine.

The pictures tell the story the best:

Having a Home Remodeled?

NARI Offers Tips for a Homeowner to Stay on Top of a Home-Improvement Project.

The first step to take is pre-planning, which can be started by making two lists about the room that you want to remodel: Things that you like and things that you dislike. Then, write out:

• Features you wish you could have
• Features that you want
• Features that you need for the new room
• Pick out some possible color swatches
• Who will be using the room?
• What it will be used for when the project is complete?

NARI suggests that homeowners who want to start a project this fall start planning now. “Finding the right design, choosing a professional remodeler, and securing the necessary financing for a home improvement project can sometimes take months,” says Julius Lowenberg, president of NARI. Also, your remodeler may not be able to begin work immediately if he or she is currently working on another project.

After pre-planning, you will want to meet with your remodeler. He or she will take a walk through your house to get a feel for the traffic flow in the home and find out where the mechanical systems of the house are located. Tell them everything that you want from the lists that you made during your pre-planning, and be prepared to tell your remodeler what your budget is for the project.

From this preliminary meeting, the remodeler will take some time to draw up the plans. Some remodelers have architects or designers in the industry on staff, which is called “design/build.” When the plans are ready, you will be asked to review and make revisions to the plans and make a deposit to begin the work. The final plans will include an outline of the job including the materials, products, remodeler’s notes, finish details, and pre-priced options and upgrades.

Your remodeler may give you a timeline that outlines the steps in the remodeling project. Don’t rely solely on this timeline because several variables can have an impact on the length of the project, such as availability of special-order items or materials. It is important to maintain constant communication with the remodeler so you can understand any changes that may take place in the schedule.

Once you sign the contract to begin the job, you have three days to change your mind. This is called your legal “right of rescission.” After the three days, your remodeler will organize schedules, order materials, and apply for the needed permits. Arrange another meeting with your contactor just to go over the details so that both of you are clear on what is about to happen.

Right before the remodeling project begins, remove hangings from the walls in and around the work area. Prepare yourself for a roller coaster of emotions; your initial excitement will dip once the construction begins. At different stages in the process, it’s normal for your feelings to go up and down. Just remind yourself that your original enthusiasm will return when the room is finished.

When the final days start to come around, do a walkthrough of the area and make a list of any adjustments that you want made. This will be your remodeler’s guide to last minute fix-ups. Once everything is complete, it’s time to enjoy your new room.

Originally taken from NARI of Idaho website.

According to NARI of Idaho, Here are 14 Questions Should You Ask a Remodeler

Who will you choose to wield the hammer on your particular job? That isn’t an easy question. Your choice of a contractor will ultimately determine the success and enjoyment of the job.

You can increase your chances of having a successful project by conducting qualifying interviews, following up on references and credentials, and considering all aspects of the remodeling project-the physical work and the emotional strain. You need to look for the person you feel will provide the best all-around service available-above-and-beyond the necessary construction skills.

The following questions will help you establish a company’s qualifications and reputation, and help you find the right person for your job.

1) How long have you been in business?

Look for a company with an established business history in your community. Surviving in any business in today’s competitive marketplace is a difficult task. Most successful contractors are proud of their history in the industry.

2) Who will be assigned as project supervisor for the job?

Also ask whom you should contact if the supervisor is not available. Get exact names and contact phone numbers for all persons who will be involved in the project.

3) What is the time frame for starting the project?

Now is the time to ask questions about work schedules. You should ask: What is your estimate for completion? How early will your crew normally begin work? When will they normally quit for the day? Will I be contacted about delays or changes in the schedule? By whom?

4) What is your approach to a project of this scope?

This will give you an idea of how the contractor works and what to expect during the project. Listen carefully to the answer. This is one of the big indicators of the company’s work ethic.

5) How do you operate?

In other words, how is your firm organized? Do you have employees or do you hire subcontractors? If you do have employees, what are their job descriptions? Do you use a project supervisor or lead carpenter to oversee the project? Other firms will have additional positions. You should know what parts of your project will be handled by staff, and which will be contracted out to independent contractors.

6) Is your company a full service or specialty firm?

If you are planning a small project, say replacing the bathroom plumbing, you may be better off hiring a specialty plumbing firm or a bathroom remodeler. However, if your project involves multiple changes, entire rooms or additions, you should consult a full service or design-build firm.

7) Do you have design services available?

If you are considering a large or involved project, you will need design services. If the contractor does not have design-build capabilities, you should consider hiring an architect. Depending on the size and scope of the project, you may need an architect or structural engineer.

Contractor Checklist From NARI

Be sure to look for and be satisfied with these items before signing a contract with a contractor.

• Was the Contractor/Salesperson on time?
• Was their appearance neat and professional?
• Was their vehicle presentable?
• Did they listen to your ideas, and ask questions?
• Did they suggest options / alternatives / ideas?
• Do they have insurance? (Liability & Workman’s comp.)
• How many years have they been in business?
• Are they members in any trade or other organizations?
• Are they certified? (If applicable)
• Do they have a website for more information?
• Do you feel comfortable with them?

Download NARI’s PDF version of this checklist here.

Ever wonder how you might feel while remodeling your home?

We understand the difficulty making decisions, allowing newly-met people into your home, seeing your house under demolition and construction, and above all trusting a remodel contractor with your investment. Understanding what you’re going through helps us cater to your needs and our unique process allows us to work together on your remodel.

Bathroom Remodel

This Bathroom won a first place award in NARI’s photo competition.  A contemporary upgrade to a guest bath.  As this part of the home is slab on grade, we kept the fixtures all in the same location to keep costs economical.  This Bath remodel includes a new larger vanity, a new wall mount toilet (tank in wall cavity), and a new shower.

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After the bathroom remodel. Before, all walls remained in same location.

The completed space.

10 Reasons to Buy Local and a Word from Strite on Supporting Boise

Image and list taken from original article: Infographic: Why Buy Local & Ten Reasons to Shop Local First By Dan Gould on August 5, 2009.

 Buying Locally and Supporting Boise Economy

When I think about “getting it local” more often than not things like coffee and produce come to mind.  I attribute this to seeing a ‘Think Boise First’ or ‘Think Nampa First’ logo at the register of a coffee shop, restaurant, or gift shop.  But the ‘it’ in “Get it Local”, isn’t necessarily a product that is grown, ’it’ also includes services from businesses who are locally owned and staffed.  There are many service-oriented businesses in Boise who are locally-minded – Strite design + remodel being one of them. But why be locally-minded?

Very Kind words just two days into the Bathroom remodel

Our new company picture

Brand new picture of our entire team, shot yesterday morning at 8:15 – yes it was balmy 19 degrees!  The building in the background is the historic Boise Depot, just a minute’s walk from our office.  Left to right (showing start year and job title): Marty Taylor (2010 marketing), Barbara Kilborn (2009 accounting), Ed Lee (1997 project manager), Brad Millspaugh (1991 business manager, estimating, owner), Matt Mundy (1992 project manager), Richard Cook (2005 design, permitting, product flow), Bob Mundy (1992 production coordinator, owner), and Michael Snow (1997 design lead, remodel consulting).  Missing from photo is Rita Galbreaith (2001 Administration).