DESIGN BLOG
From Idea to Reality: How to Start Planning Your Home Remodel or Design
Embarking on a home renovation is an exciting opportunity to transform a space into something truly reflecting your vision and lifestyle. At Residential Designed Solutions in Columbus, Ohio, we believe the first step in creating a beautiful, functional home starts with inspiration. As we begin each project, we immerse ourselves in a wide array of design ideas, curating and refining concepts to craft spaces that are both functional and reflective of the personal style of our clients. And as partners in the home design process, this is where you should begin, too!
Where We Find Home Design Inspiration:
Design Blogs and Websites: We stay aware by consistently exploring online platforms that share the latest in architecture and interior design. Online platforms offer a wealth of ideas, highlighting the latest trends and timeless designs. Exploring these resources can provide fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
Top Design Blogs Creating Inspiration:
Staying updated with influential design blogs can provide ongoing inspiration and keep us abreast of current trends. Here are some notable ones from 2024:
Design Milk – Modern design across architecture, furniture, and interiors.
Dezeen – Global design magazine featuring cutting-edge projects.
Apartment Therapy – Real-life interior transformations and DIY inspirations.
The Spruce – Practical home decor tips with a focus on approachable design.
House Beautiful – Expert insights and room-by-room decorating ideas.
Core77 – Features innovative industrial and product design.
Life of an Architect – Blogs offering insights into the architectural process.
Social Media Platforms: Instagram, Pinterest, and Houzz are powerful tools in our design arsenal. These are treasure troves of design inspiration, featuring real-life renovations, mood boards, and creative concepts from around the world. These platforms give us direct insight into what’s trending globally and allow us to visualize diverse design possibilities.
Local Architecture and Homes: While exploring central Ohio neighborhoods like German Village, Worthington, Bexley, and Dublin, we draw inspiration from the rich architectural styles and modern and historic homes that define the area. Observing reveals architectural styles and design elements unique to the area, offering contextual inspiration that resonates with local aesthetics.
Magazines and Books: We regularly sift through design publications, pulling ideas that align with our clients’ desires for elevated, luxurious spaces. Books on architecture and interiors provide timeless design principles that we adapt to modern renovations. Some books/magazine/more to start your journey include:
Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave by Joanna Gaines
Call It Home: The Details That Matter by Amber Lewis
Live Beautiful by Athena Calderone
The Space That Keeps You by Jeremiah Brent
Showrooms and Design Centers: We visit local showrooms to experience materials firsthand. Whether it’s selecting countertops, tiles, or fixtures, seeing and feeling these elements in person ensures that the designs we propose are both practical and stunning. The National Association of The Remodeling Industry is an informative source to find showrooms, vendors, and design centers in your area.
Museums and Art Galleries: We believe that great design draws from all areas of creativity. Museums and galleries influence our approach to color, texture, and form, inspiring bold yet balanced design decisions. Head to the Columbus Museum of Art or the Wexner Center for the Arts for current exhibits to spark your design ideas.
Harnessing Inspiration for Our Clients:
At RDS, inspiration fuels our creative process and empowers you, our clients. By presenting ideas sourced from a wide array of influences, as well as our vast array of knowledge, we open doors to new possibilities you may not have previously considered. This collaborative energy transforms the design process into an experience that is as enjoyable as it is rewarding.
As we continue this series, we’ll dive deeper into how we translate inspiration into tangible designs, offering insights into our creative process and how we bring your dream spaces to life. Inspiration is only the beginning— what follows is a shared journey with you toward creating spaces that are timeless, personal, and full of life.
The Rise of Two-Story Additions: Transform Your Columbus Home
As Columbus, OH homeowners seek creative ways to maximize space and add value to their properties, two-story additions have emerged as a transformative solution. Whether it’s adding extra living space, accommodating a growing family, or enhancing your home’s functionality, a two-story addition could be the perfect choice. Let’s explore the reasons behind this trend, key considerations for planning your remodel, and the types of two-story additions that can elevate your home’s design and functionality.
Why Two-Story Additions Are Gaining Popularity
Increased Space Without Sacrificing Your Yard
Unlike single-story expansions that can encroach on your outdoor space, two-story additions allow you to build upward. This is especially valuable in urban and suburban areas of Columbus where lot sizes are often limited.
Cost-Effectiveness
Building upward might be more cost-effective than expanding outward, as it often requires less foundation work and makes better use of your existing structure. This is an especially good option if lot size is limited. When building up, additional structural work like reinforcing the existing foundation and supporting the new upper levels may cause costs to rise.
Building outward is a good option and may be more cost-effective if you have ample space, but may require foundation work, adding utilities and excavation. Your existing home layout, needs, zoning laws, and size of your lot will determine the most cost-effective plan for the design.
Versatility and Value
Two-story additions offer unmatched versatility, enabling you to create multiple functional spaces. They also boost your home’s resale value, as additional square footage and modernized layouts are highly attractive to buyers.
Existing
Proposed Second Story
What to Consider Before Planning a Two-Story Addition
Adding a second story is a significant project that requires thoughtful planning. Here are some critical aspects to keep in mind:
Local Regulations
Check local zoning laws and building codes to ensure your plans comply with height restrictions and setback requirements.
Obtain the necessary permits before beginning construction to avoid delays.
Home Structure
Evaluate your home's existing foundation and framing to ensure they can support the additional weight of a second story.
Consider hiring a structural engineer or residential designer to conduct a thorough assessment.
Seamless Design
Ensure the addition blends seamlessly with the architectural style of your home.
Choose materials, finishes, and exterior details that match or complement the original structure.
Plan for interior transitions, such as staircases, that blend naturally into your home’s layout.
Budget and Timeline
Develop a realistic budget that includes contingencies for unexpected costs.
Set a clear timeline and prepare for temporary disruptions during construction.
Proposed Design
Existing
Types of Two-Story Additions to Consider
Main Suite Retreat with Bonus Space: Transform your home with a luxurious main suite on the upper level, featuring a spa-like bathroom, walk-in closets, and a cozy lounge area. Use the lower level for a home office, media room, home gym, or guest room.
Expanding for Family Needs: Perfect for growing families, this design can include additional bedrooms and bathrooms upstairs, while the lower level transforms into a playroom, homework area, or additional living room.
Multi-Generational Living: Add a private suite with its own entrance, kitchen, and living space to accommodate aging parents or adult children returning home.
Creative Combos: Combine functional and leisure spaces, such as a sunroom on the main level with a loft for hobbies or relaxation above.
Benefits of Two-Story Additions
A thoughtfully designed two-story addition not only enhances your daily living experience but also provides long-term benefits:
Increased Comfort: Enjoy a spacious, well-organized home tailored to your needs.
Energy Efficiency: Incorporate modern energy-saving technologies and materials.
Enhanced Visual appeal: Achieve a cohesive, polished look that improves curb appeal.
Long-Term Value: Boost your property’s market value and attract future buyers.
Ready to Elevate Your Home?
At Residential Designed Solutions, we help central Ohio homeowners achieve their dream spaces through innovative design. Our team specializes in creating two-story additions that enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and explore the possibilities for your home!
How Residential Designed Solutions Collaborates with Our Design Partner, Anne Rogers
Curious about how collaboration works between RDS and our design partners? In this post, we’ll give you an inside look at the creative process through the perspective of one of our talented interior design collaborators, Anne Rogers, of Anne Rogers Interiors. Discover how we work together to bring each unique vision to life, blending expertise and inspiration every step of the way.
What led you to start working on this specific project with RDS?
A long-time client of mine recently bought property and wanted to build a custom-designed house for it. I reached out to Jim and asked if he’d be interested in working together on the design for this home. Jim and I have a long working history together, and I truly appreciate his team’s approach and creativity. They work with me on the team as the designer. I respect them and I trust them to bring the vision to life.
How did you and RDS collaborate throughout the project?
We’re still in the design phase, but we’ve already had several meetings with the clients and visited the site to get a feel for the property. I’ve had excellent communication with Joshua, and we keep the lines open. That’s been key to ensuring a cohesive vision.
What were your primary design goals for this project?
My clients want a modern mountain home style, even though the property isn’t in the mountains. The goal is to design a home that works with the natural topography and maximizes the views, with porches off the back and side and large windows. We’re focused on ensuring great flow, creating a spacious gym, golf simulator, large office, and making sure their existing furniture can be seamlessly integrated into the design.
What style or theme is this project and how was that theme chosen?
We originally had two themes, but we narrowed it down to one for Jim and his team. To refine the vision, the client and I visited Colorado for the Parade of Homes, which showcased mountain-style homes. This helped us solidify what “mountain style” features we wanted to incorporate.
Have there been any challenges with this project and if so, how were they resolved?
The initial design came in over budget, so we are currently redesigning it. We’re moving from a two-story design to a ranch style, which has helped us align with the client’s budget. So far, that’s been the main challenge, and we’re working through it to ensure the final design is exactly what the client wants.
How will your team ensure that the interior design complements the overall architectural design?
We are creating the space with a great deal of research. We went to Colorado and went through all the homes, discussing what elements were consistent in them:
steel beams
wood
and natural products
This helped us determine which of these were important to her and what she ultimately wants in their home. We created a checklist of desired features, which has guided our design selections.
During client presentations, we share the chosen direction and then refine our selections, from lighting to plumbing and materials, based on client feedback. We’ve selected the stone and some of the other materials that align with the style she envisions. Ensuring our clients’ vision is well represented is at the heart of what we do.
How do you think the collaboration will enhance the final outcome?
Our collaboration with Jim and his team has been invaluable. Jim and Joshua know the products they are using in the design.
For example, the doors and windows aren’t what is normally used here in Ohio. They share their knowledge, and we can get their thoughts for specific products we want to use in the home.
We can openly discuss how the roof lines in the interior will work and how we can bring it all together.
Or the double islands that weren’t where I thought they would be, but after listening to Joshua and then doing research we presented it to the client, and they liked where the islands were planned to be.
We are taking the design one room at a time with our team each week and then talking with the client for their input. We take that conversation and inspiration to Jim and Josh to help them create the spaces. Then we can add or make changes to each room and give them helpful feedback!
What lessons will you take away from this collaboration that you can apply to future projects?
One thing we feel as a team is especially important is to visually show clients the inspirations for the direction a client wants us to take. Doing that research, whether it’s through Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram, and being able to communicate that or even put it in a 3d presentation that visually we can share has immensely helped this client. We will implement more of that as we move forward.
I like these projects because I get to be involved from the very start, working closely with the architect and making selections together. Introducing my clients to an architect that I know and trust has fostered a great relationship, and now they trust RDS as much as I do. My clients now call RDS on their own to suggest design changes. That level of trust and communication makes the process rewarding for everyone. It’s always important to have a strong, cohesive team!
2025 Home Design Trends: Remodeling Your Central Ohio Home with Style and Functionality
As we step into 2025, home remodeling trends continue to evolve, blending innovative ideas with timeless elegance. Whether you’re refreshing your Columbus, OH home or planning a complete overhaul, staying ahead of the trends can help you create a space that’s both stylish and practical. At Residential Designed Solutions, we specialize in crafting unique, functional homes, and are excited to share the top remodeling trends for the upcoming year.
This year, we see three key areas, driving design inspiration: outdoor spaces, functional indoor additions, and upgraded finishes and fixtures.
Enhancing Outdoor Spaces: The Ultimate Retreat
In 2025, outdoor spaces remain a priority as homeowners extend their living areas to create serene, functional retreats. Key trends include:
All-Season Outdoor Rooms
Covered patios and three-season rooms equipped with retractable screens and weatherproof furniture are in high demand. Even adding just a pergola can make a significant difference. Weatherproof furniture, outdoor fireplaces, and heaters ensure these spaces remain comfortable most of the year, allowing homeowners to enjoy the outdoors as long as possible.Sustainable Landscaping
Eco-friendly landscapes featuring native plants, rain gardens, and permeable pavers are growing in popularity. These designs not only enhance curb appeal but also promote environmental sustainability.Smart Outdoor Lighting
Motion-sensor lights, illuminated walkways, and color-changing LEDs combine safety with ambiance. These lighting solutions are perfect for welcoming people to your home and enhancing the curb appeal.
Adding Functional Spaces Inside the Home
As lifestyles evolve, so does the need for versatile, purposeful indoor spaces. The top trends include:
Wellness Rooms
From yoga studios to meditation spaces, wellness rooms are a sought-after addition. These spaces often feature calming color palettes, natural materials, and advanced air purification systems to promote health and tranquility.
Dedicated Home Offices
With remote work a long-term norm for many people, personalized and efficient home offices are essential. Built-in desks, soundproofing, and integrated technology create productive and comfortable workspaces.
Multi-Generational Living Spaces
Accommodating extended family members with in-law suites, guest apartments, or multi-functional spaces is increasingly popular. These areas often include private bathrooms and kitchenettes to offer independence while maintaining connections.
Trending Finishes and Fixtures for 2025
Finishes and fixtures bring together functionality and aesthetics, and this year’s trends offer exciting possibilities:
Natural Materials
Expect a focus on artisanal elements like stone, reclaimed wood, and metal finishes. From marble countertops to brass fixtures, these materials add organic warmth to interiors.Bold Color Palettes
Earth tones such as terracotta, olive green, and deep navy dominate, providing a modern yet grounded aesthetic. These rich hues pair beautifully with natural textures and sleek, contemporary lines.
Smart Fixtures
Technology continues to revolutionize home design with touchless faucets, app-controlled lighting, and energy-efficient appliances. Water-saving plumbing features and advanced smart home integrations are becoming standard.
Transform Your Home with Residential Designed Solutions
Whether you’re dreaming of an enhanced outdoor retreat, functional new spaces, or stylish finishes, 2025 is brimming with opportunities to elevate your home’s design. At Residential Designed Solutions in Worthington, Ohio, we stay ahead of the home design trends to offer innovative, personalized solutions tailored to your needs.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact us today to start planning your dream home remodel. Together, we’ll create a beautiful, functional home you’ll love for years to come.
What’s the Difference Between a Residential Designer and an Architect?
When planning a home renovation or building a new house, one of the key decisions homeowners must make is whether to hire a residential designer or an architect. Both professionals are vital in turning your dream home into a reality, but they bring different skills and perspectives to the table. Understanding these differences, as well as their similarities, will help you make the best choice for your project.
Architect: The Structural Visionary
An architect is a licensed professional who has undergone extensive education and training. They are well-versed in both the aesthetic and technical aspects of building design, ensuring overall structural integrity and compliance of a building project.
Key Points:
Education & Licensing: Architects typically hold a degree in architecture and must complete a lengthy internship and pass a series of exams to become licensed.
Scope of Work: Architects handle complex structural issues, ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations. Their expertise extends to both residential and commercial buildings.
Best Suited For: Large, complex projects requiring structural innovation, such as adding a second story, reconfiguring the floorplan entirely, or designing a large building.
Residential Designer: The Home Specialist
A residential designer focuses specifically on designing living spaces. While they might not have the same formal education as architects, they bring a deep understanding of home functionality, aesthetics, and comfort.
Key Points:
Education & Licensing: Residential designers often have degrees in interior design, drafting, or related fields, but they are not required to be licensed like architects. Certified professional building designers have undergone rigorous testing in home design.
Scope of Work: Residential designers specialize in designing the interiors and exteriors of homes. They excel at optimizing floor plans and ensuring spaces are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and tailored to the homeowner's lifestyle. Many residential designers are skilled in creating homes from the ground up.
Best Suited For: Projects focusing on remodeling or updating a home’s layout without major structural changes, homeowners looking for a design professional with a strong sense of style, and budget-conscious projects where detailed architectural services may not be necessary. However, many residential designers are also capable of handling significant major structural changes.
Similarities Between Architects and Residential Designers
Despite their differences, residential designers and architects share some common ground:
Design Expertise: Both are skilled in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces, considering the homeowner's needs, lifestyle, and budget when designing.
Collaboration: Both professionals often work closely with contractors, engineers, and other specialists to ensure a seamless execution of the design.
Knowledge: Both architects and residential designers possess a thorough understanding of regulations and codes in regards to building design.
Why Choose a Residential Designer?
For many homeowners, a residential designer is an excellent choice, especially for projects that don’t require major structural changes. Here’s why:
Specialized Knowledge: Residential designers bring a deep understanding of how to create homes that are both beautiful and functional. They excel in optimizing spaces for everyday living, ensuring that your home not only looks good but works well for your lifestyle.
Cost-Effective: Since residential designers typically don’t need the same level of formal education and licensing as architects, their services can be more affordable.
Personalized Service: Residential designers often work closely with homeowners, providing a high level of personalized service. They listen to your needs, preferences, and ideas, ensuring that the final design reflects your vision.
The Plan Drawer
Did you know that we have a wide range of pre-designed home plans available for purchase and customization called The Plan Drawer? The home plans housed on this website aren’t designed for a specific client drawn by us and others we work. This vast knowledge provides clients with the opportunity to go online and purchase a plan that they love. Then we will tweak it to meet your exact needs and building code requirements. We’ll also add in the plumbing, HVAC, and electrical plans. We know that sometimes starting from absolute scratch might be more than you want to do and finding an existing pre-designed plan that we can tailor to your needs might just be the answer. Learn more about The Plan Drawer here.
Both architects and residential designers play vital roles in home design, catering to different needs and project types. If your project involves complex structural changes or requires a high level of technical expertise, an architect might be the best choice. However, if you’re looking to remodel or design a home that perfectly suits your lifestyle and taste, a residential designer could be the ideal partner for your project.
Our team at RDS has a combined (number) years experience and has been helping clients in the Columbus, Ohio area for (number) years. As your dedicated team of residential designers, we’re ready to bring your dream home to life.
The Psychology of Kitchens: Design Tips, Key Organization Hacks, and Essential Appliances
A kitchen is more than just a functional space; it is where we gather, cook, and connect. As a designer or architect, understanding the psychology behind kitchen design can significantly enhance its functionality and appeal. Here are some key design tips, organization hacks, and must-have appliances to consider when designing or updating your kitchen.
Create a Harmonious Space Through Design
Custom cabinetry
Flow and Functionality: Design your kitchen with a logical and strategic workflow in mind. While the classic work triangle is still a valuable guideline, modern kitchens often benefit from a ‘work zone’ approach, where appliances and prep areas are clustered together. Place your island strategically, creating a central hub for cooking, dining, and socializing.
Lighting Matters: Good lighting is crucial. Combine task lighting (under-cabinet lights) with ambient lighting (overhead fixtures) to illuminate work areas and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Don’t forget about accent lighting for highlighting architectural features, pantries, beautiful countertops, or artwork.
Color Psychology: Colors impact mood. Soft neutrals like greys, whites, and beiges create a calm, spacious feel, while deep blues or greens add personality and energy. Reds, oranges, and yellows can stimulate appetite and conversation. Choose a color palette that reflects the desired mood and complements your overall design.
Personal Touches and Decor: Incorporate elements that reflect your family’s personality. Custom cabinetry, unique backsplashes, or open shelving to display favorite dishes, greenery, glassware, and family photos make the kitchen feel more personalized and engaging.
Organization Hacks to Maximize Efficiency and Space
Pull-Out Cabinets and Drawers: These maximize accessibility and reduce the need to dig through clutter. Incorporate pull-out shelves (to access items in the back of a cabinet), revolving trays, and drawer dividers to keep essentials in place and organized.
Vertical Storage: Utilize vertical space to maximize storage capacity. Consider installing overhead cabinets, wall-mounted pot racks, and magnetic strips for knives. For smaller items, use stackable containers and drawer organizers.
Multi-Functional Furniture: Consider items like an island with built-in storage or a breakfast bar that doubles as a workspace. Rolling carts or corner cabinets can provide additional storage and work surfaces. Enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal really elevates your kitchen.
Labeling: Clear labels on jars, containers, and drawers can help maintain organization, especially in a busy household. It also makes it easier for guests to navigate your kitchen.
Smart Technology Integration: Incorporate smart home technology for seamless management. Smart refrigerators with inventory tracking, touchless faucets, and programmable lighting systems can enhance convenience and efficiency.
Appliances That Enhance Kitchen Efficiency
High-efficiency appliances
High-Efficiency Appliances: Energy-efficient appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, and ovens can be a worthwhile investment. They not only reduce utility bills but also contribute to a more sustainable kitchen environment.
Smart Appliances: Modern kitchens are increasingly incorporating smart technology. For example, a smart refrigerator can track inventory, suggest recipes based on available ingredients, and even order groceries. Smart ovens can preheat automatically, monitor cooking progress, and even probe for doneness.
Quiet Dishwashers: A quiet dishwasher can significantly improve the ambiance of your kitchen, especially in open-concept homes where noise can easily travel.
Compact and Multi-Use Appliances: In smaller kitchens, multi-functional appliances like a combination microwave-convection oven or a compact coffee maker with a grinder can save space and add versatility. Appliances like a multi-cooker or an air fryer can save counter space and offer a variety of cooking options.
Water Filtration Systems: A water filtration system can improve the taste and quality of your drinking water. It can also reduce the need for bottled water, which is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective
Designing a kitchen that balances aesthetics with functionality involves understanding the psychological impact of color, layout, and organization. By focusing on thoughtful design, effective organization, and smart appliance choices, you can craft kitchens that are not only beautiful but also functional and enjoyable. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet morning coffee, the right kitchen design can make all the difference. Our designers at Residential Designed Solutions in Columbus, Ohio understand the psychology behind kitchen design and are here to help you.
RDS Welcomes Julianne Grove
We are thrilled to welcome Julianne Grove to the RDS team! Julianne graduated from Thomas Jefferson University with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. She brings a competitive spirit and a diverse work history, including roles as a summer intern at Chris Dawson Architect, a carpentry assistant at Musser Farm Woodworks, a counselor & activities coordinator at Camp Joy El, and even a sandwich artist at Subway. Since she might be someone you meet with or collaborate with in our office, we want to introduce her to you.
Julianne is responsible for Project Detail, focusing on drafting designs for home additions and remodels. Her strong work ethic and dedication, combined with a drive to learn and create, make her a perfect fit for our team.
Julianne will tell you her friends describe her as funny, adventurous, and joyful. Those are three perfect synonyms to describe her. Here are two interesting facts about Julianne: she has a birthmark in her eye and she is highly competitive. In 5th grade, she competed in a contest to design the school yearbook cover, despite facing tough competition from other talented artists. Her favorite quote, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take,” by Wayne Gretzky (popularized by Michael Scott), reflects her approach to life and work.
Julianne is passionate about serving clients and helping turn their ideas into reality. We are excited to have her on board and are confident you’ll enjoy working with her!
Unlock Your Home's Hidden Potential: Transforming Underutilized Spaces
Is your home feeling cramped? Are you ready for a home office, a playroom for the kids, an additional bedroom, or a serene relaxation space? The good news is you might not need to expand your home’s footprint to create the extra room you desire. Your ideal space could be hiding in plain sight. By creatively transforming underutilized spaces like attics, garages, and basements, you can significantly enhance your home's functionality and enjoyment.
As a leading home designer in Columbus, Ohio, our RDS team excels at turning forgotten corners into spaces your family will love.
Attics: From Dusty Storage to Cozy Retreats
Attics are often overlooked as mere storage spaces, but they can be transformed into valuable living spaces. With proper insulation, ventilation, and structural reinforcement, attics can become charming bedrooms, productive home offices, functional bathrooms, or vibrant playrooms.
Key considerations:
Slope of the roof: The proper ceiling height is adequate for standing comfortably.
Windows: Adding skylights or dormer windows will increase the natural light.
Structural integrity: Confirm that the attic floor can support the weight of people and furniture.
Heating and cooling: Invest in efficient systems to maintain a comfortable temperature and address any moisture issues.
Garages: More Than Just Car Storage
While garages are essential for protecting cars, they often have unused space. With a little creativity and planning, you can convert part of your garage into a home gym, a hobby workshop, or even a guest suite.
Key considerations:
Climate control: Confirm the garage can be properly heated and cooled for year-round comfort.
Noise insulation: Soundproofing to minimize street noise if the space will be used for living.
Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential, especially if you’re using paint or chemicals.
Permits: Verify local regulations regarding garage conversions.
Basements: Unlocking Your Lower Level
Basements are often underutilized, but they offer significant potential for additional living space. Whether you're dreaming of a home gym, media room, guest suite, wine cellar, or playroom, your basement could be the perfect space you didn’t know you needed.
Key considerations:
Moisture control: Correct any dampness or water issues before starting renovations.
Natural light: Incorporate large windows or enhance artificial lighting to brighten the space.
Ceiling height: Provide sufficient headroom for comfort; adjust heating/cooling ductwork as needed.
Egress windows: Creating a bedroom or living space in the basement might involve adding egress windows for safety. This is determined by the building codes for your city.
Other Spaces to Consider
Don't limit your imagination to just attics, garages, and basements. Even smaller spaces like under-stair closets, hallways, and unused spaces offer exciting possibilities.
Photo via @roundhouse_design
Under-stair closets: Transform these into compact home offices, pantries, book nooks, homework areas, or mudrooms.
Hallways: Turn large hallways into drop zones, display shelves, or a small reading nook.
Unused nooks: Create mini home libraries, homework areas, or cozy reading corners.
Professional Guidance
While DIY projects can be fulfilling, complex conversions often benefit from professional expertise. An architect or designer, like our team at RDS, can help you maximize your space, ensure structural integrity, and create a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Remember, transforming an existing space is not just about adding square footage; it's about creating a space that enhances your family's lifestyle. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and the unique characteristics of your home, you can unlock its full potential and create a space you'll love for years to come.
Interested in focusing on a specific space or discussing a particular design challenge? Our residential architects in Columbus, Ohio, can craft exceptional designs that will be brought to life by our expert remodelers or a contractor of your choice. Let us help you turn your vision into reality.
Transforming Your Home: Kitchen and Living Area Remodeling Ideas
We all know the feeling: your home starts to feel overlooked. Those once-beloved spaces now blend into the background or no longer meet your family’s needs. But moving isn’t the only option. Remodeling your kitchen and living areas can breathe new life into your home, making it perfectly tailored to your current lifestyle. Whether you are considering a full-scale renovation or a subtle update, the kitchen and living areas are one of the most requested transformations we design for our clients.
Reimagining your Kitchen:
The kitchen stands as the heart of the home. Creating a kitchen that is beautiful and functional can be done as a total remodel or a strategic update.
Smart layouts: Efficiency is paramount. Evaluate your kitchen’s layout; does it hinder your workflow? Consider opening the floorplan to seamlessly connect with the living area. Structural adjustments can yield a spacious, inviting atmosphere. Islands with integrated storage, prep spaces, and room for appliances become central to the kitchen’s functionality.
Cabinet Considerations: Cabinets define the kitchen’s aesthetic. While traditional wood is timeless, explore sleek lacquer finishes, textured laminates, bamboo, recycled glass, stainless steel, or painted cabinets for a distinctive look.
Open Shelves: These are continually popular for their ability to showcase favorite items, from dishes to decor. Accent lighting can enhance their airy appeal.
Countertops: Quartz continues to have its moment, with good reason. This non-porous and durable option is available in a myriad of colors and patterns. Consider granite, stainless steel, butcher block, marble, concrete, or solid surfaces for a wider variety.
Embrace Multifunctionality: Today’s kitchen serves as more than a cooking space—it’s a hub for homework or science experiments, a workstation for managing the household, and casual dining. Incorporate a desk, a breakfast nook with banquette seating, and smart technology.
Create a Relaxing Living Room:
The living area is where memories are made, and relaxation reigns. Transform it into a space you don’t want to leave.
Multi-Functional: Define zones with furniture—a reading nook, movie area, and cozy discussion space. Furniture with hidden storage is a place to keep games and blankets, an ottoman allows movement to a different zone, and built-ins can be customized for whatever you want to store and have readily available.
Natural Light: Enhance mood and ambiance with additional windows, skylights, or even a sunroom for expansive light and space.
Open a Wall: Knock down some walls to create the seamless flow between the kitchen and living area. Entertaining will be easier and sight lines magically appear, keeping those kiddos in your sightline.
Incorporate Nature: As you are creating and finalizing design decisions, take a moment to think about indoor plants. Where can you place some in your living room? Studies show plants in reduces stress and improves our moods. Go bold and create a living wall for a maximum effect. Check out our blog—The Benefits of Indoor Plants.
Smart Technology: Integrating smart lighting allows for adjustments to your mood or the time of day. A hidden projector screen makes movie night more special. Invisible speakers create an immersive sound experience.
Layered Lighting: Combine overhead lighting with ambient lighting—lamps, sconces, and pendant lights for a cozy atmosphere.
Your home reflects you. Transform your kitchen and living areas into spaces that not only meet but exceed your expectations, creating a home that is both inspiring and functional. Let your home tell your story thorough thoughtful design and personalized touches that enhance your daily living. Experiment with textures, colors, and materials that resonate with your style and needs.
At RDS, we offer residential design services and our team listens closely to understand your vision and tailors our approach to bring your home plan to life. Call us at 614-430-0027 to embark on your remodeling journey today.
Big Night, Bigger Achievements!
The BIA Annual “Big Night” Awards was recently held, and we’re proud to announced we received two awards! While accolades aren't our sole focus, seeing our innovative designs recognized by such esteemed talent in the Columbus, OH area truly humbles us. After all, alongside our incredible builder partners, our passion lies in crafting exceptional spaces for our clients.
The BIA Annual “Big Night” Awards was recently held, and we’re proud to announced we received two awards! While accolades aren't our sole focus, seeing our innovative designs recognized by such esteemed talent in the Columbus, OH area truly humbles us. After all, alongside our incredible builder partners, our passion lies in crafting exceptional spaces for our clients.
Here's a toast to our winning projects:
Best Outdoor Living Space: "The Room Out Back" - This Delaware, OH oasis, built by Dave Osmond Builders, truly extends the living space, offering the perfect spot for relaxation and nature connection. (Big thanks to Kylie Osmond for capturing its beauty in photos!)
Best Architectural Design of a New Home Priced $750,000 and Up: "Rustic Dutch Farmhouse" - Jimenez Haid Custom Builders brought this stunning farmhouse to life in The Reserve at Tartan Fields, Dublin, OH.
Dreaming of Your Own Award-Winning Space?
Whether you're considering a remodel, building a new home, or simply sketching out your dream plan, our Residential Designed Solutions team is here to help! Give us a call at 614-430-0027 and let's turn your vision into reality.