If there’s one thing I cannot stand is sloppy craftsmanship.

A good general contractor is someone who knows how to build millwork, install floors or paint a space properly.

But sometimes, they can run into trouble, and build a poor product.

But, some designers simply don’t see or understand if something is built installed poorly or not.

That comes with experience & education.

Experience is the “on the job training” we often tell our younger interns and junior designers at our work studio. These years of exposure and job training are what and how to identify these inaccuracies and bad projects from our GC friends.

Yes, I said friends.

The interior designer who isn’t “friends” with the GC, is one who is going to lock horns daily with that person and I will say it out load…will cause project delays.

A good designer works with the general contractor. They are the experts in the construction realm. And as interior designers we must know our place, its certainly not “means & methods”… which means we don’t tell the GC how to build it. That’s their job. But a good or experienced interior designer can help resolve a detail of installation issue. That is our job.

Education is paramount.

Any good designer will tell you the education that they received from their respective university or college exposed them to most elements of the design process.

But not all.

A good education for designers is one that simply builds their foundation for project success and helps the designer understand where to get information for their clients when needed. This is putting it very simply but it helps them understand the players in their ID world.

In a broad and better education, we learn history of design, styles and technology. We learn about business practices and what is ethical and what is not. We learn about budget responsibility and the impacts on the environments for not only the inhabitants of the spaces we are design for, but the world they live in. The “Green” and planetary impact is one we all must recognize.

Education and a strong curriculum from university will give the ID student exposure to details and lessons in quality for construction.

So, with these two very important elements of a designer’s career, experience & education are the two strong holds for that interior designer to understand what is built correctly and what is not. And hopefully how to resolve the issue.

Anthony Waters RID, TAID, ASID

How many times have you stepped into a friend’s home and found that when you used the powder room and feels out dated and design wise, boring.

When considering a renovation of any kind, it's best to consider the "Impact" of the smallest room in the house.

The Powder Room!

Many design experts will agree, this one has a real impression with your guests and if you ever decide to sell, a potential buyer too.

Key points for you to consider when preparing to design then renovate this space:

1. Durable Materials are a must.  Think Vinyl or type 2 wallcoverings instead of Paper, as this type of wallcovering is more durable and can hold up to moisture better than paper. Stone is always nice but remember porcelain tile is also very durable and stylish too.
2. Plumbing fittings that work well for all. Some guests are family may have a hard time grabbing fittings due to arthritis, be sure they are easy to use and “Universal Design” friendly.
3. Add that shower if you think it’s useful. Sometimes we have many people spending the night during holidays, so this is a real value add in many cases. Make it safe too, remember non-slip flooring for those who are likely to slip.
4. Lighting is everything.  Be aware that you don’t put the wrong light fixture in your new bathroom. LED lighting is great for energy savings, but color temperature and if they can dim properly is a must too.
5. Don’t’ over accessorize. We have a tendency to fill a space a bit too much, I for one like to edit my spaces with a question what can go? And make the space feel roomy?

These points and more are what any good design professional should be discussing with you for your Powder Bath renovation. If they are not, buyer beware.

Thorough Costs & Time assessments are crucial to a successful project

I have heard it all.

From a General Contractor telling me he can do in 15 days,…to it’s only “This Much”… to do that task…

An experienced General Contractor (GC) should never over promise and then under deliver. That GC should also not say “Off the Cuff”, how much something may cost.

Guessing at these will only bring doubt and possible failures to the project.

Though it has been done by the best, your interior designer can help wrangle your GC into the real world and work through the calendar and costs assessment.

Research takes time.

I know so many of us expect instant results.

Whether it’s a GC or Builder - be realistic in your goals.

Be Honest too.

Would you stretch your neck out to over promise something to one of your loved ones, only to under whelm them?.

No,… you most likely wouldn’t.

Give your professionals time to do a budget and get all the estimates in for all aspects of your project.

And let your Interior Designer help.

We know more than most realize.

Planning and collaborating is what makes design exciting and real.  Keeping the team focus is another matter.  We strive to keep budgets on track and to help all involved feel they are part of the design process. Design is a real process and one that takes experience and tenacity and most importantly, understanding what is needed next.  Knowledgeable designers know what steps must be taken next, to keep the team going in the right direction.

Make it Fun and Realistic, hire us today!

                         "Don't be afraid......It'll only hurt a bit...."

This is what I tell our clients when they ask me how the renovation process will “feel”...well, not feel... but happen.

It's a bit painful at first, but then with our teams guidance and constant communication, it's really painless.

Experience is the great teacher in my eyes, and we have a lot of experience.

From full floor renovations to single room, we have done it all. And the real thing is, they are all different and unique projects everytime.

The only thing that remains - It takes money, time and patience.

So if you are considering a renovation, call us for a consultation.

But remember I did warn you.

It will hurt, but only for a little while.

Anthony Waters, ASID RID TAID