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interior and exterior update - where do we begin

16 years ago

Our house was built in the 50's and very little updating has been doon since it was built and if there was updating it happened in the 70's. Now we need to bring it up to the 21st century. Where do we begin? We are not changing the structure other than maybe doing a little extra in the master bath; we're replacing windows, lighting, flooring, painting, lastly and least importantly decor. We are not interested in designing ourselves as there is too much product out there and we don't know enough nor do we have time to learn about everything that's out there and know what would work in our home or what our options are... We interviewed designers but do not have confidence in anyone since it's alot of $ and without knowing if they can deliver... it's too hard to trust them with our nest. I guess we waited too long and the project seems overwhelming. any advice, books, references, etc. we are in so california. thank you

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Comments (2)

summertime_fun
16 years ago
We have been in our house 28 years and have updated along the way. Our newest major update is the kitchen and it came out very nice. Now it's time to go back and refresh our other updates. I just had ceiling lights placed in our living room where none exhisted before. That was a $1700 expense but will vastly improve what we had which was nada. I have hired designers and got nothing for it.
Go to model homes and get your inspiration. Ask neighbors for names of contractors. Do you want one person to do everything or sub out each job.
I too live in southern california. We usually sub out jobs, my husband is a plumber, but for the kitchen we went with one contractor that did everything. I also watch a lot of hgtv.
weedyacres
16 years ago
It sounds like you want to turn over the design to someone else, but yet you're reluctant to do that because you're not sure they'll do something you'll like. If that's the case, then you do care what it ends up looking like, and therefore I don't think you really have a choice but to spend some time defining what that is.

I watch a lot of HGTV like summertime, and that gives me lots of ideas, which I can sort through to see what I like and what I don't.

GW is actually a great source of design advice. Post your questions, dilemmas, or ideas for what you want, and ask for feedback. Lots of experienced people will help you out. Think of it as a free design service!

It can seem overwhelming, but just take it one step (or one room) at a time. Start with windows by searching for posts about windows, do some shopping and ask lots of questions of the sales associates, then come here and say "here's what I'm thinking of doing, do you think this is the right choice?" Then take on the room, post photos, ask for advice on a good lighting plan, and flooring that meets your lifestyle. A bite at a time, and you'll eventually have a beautiful home!
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Thank you all for responding! Appreciate y'all sharing your experiences and knowledge. Katie - I'll see about posting some photos. We have a pretty clear idea of what we want, and also some photos for inspiration. It would be nice to have some feedback on it. Another set of eyes is always a good thing. Live-wire-oak ~ I appreciate your analytical approach, because that's how I think, too! :) We've had several of these conversations already, but you've brought up a couple of thoughts we need to visit before launching this project Thanks! Rebekah ~ Thank you for responding about your experience. This is why we were concerned where to begin. Good luck with your project! Jean ~ I can see the benefit of posting plans here. We're fortunate to already have the wide hallways, among other options for aging in place. When we updated bathrooms, we had this in mind. We've always put the kitchen/dining off due to $ and raising our family. Thank you sharing your experience. Definitely will remember to make sure our architect partners with us, not the contractor.
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