In part 1 we covered the big picture for starting a bathroom remodel. Now let’s talk about all the selections that go into making the bathroom remodel a reflection of your dream. Selections (as they’re called in the remodeling world) are simply the fixtures that will be replacing the tired, old things that you want to change. These include: That’s a lot of information! I covered most things, and this will give you a good start on getting your list together to start planning the big job. Listen to Episodes 20 & 21 “Lets Talk Home Repair” for a discussion about this very subject.
Dear Procrastinating Homeowner
First, let me say, I feel your shame and overwhelmed feelings. Your only wish is to have your 1950’s bathroom brought into the modern century! How are you supposed to know what to do when there isn’t even an instruction manual for all this stuff?! Where do you even begin? I got you! Read on! Do you walk into your bathroom and wish you had a magic wand? Are you embarrassed by the pink toilet and tub combination that was installed before you were even born? Does the black-spotted caulk make you cringe every time you try to take a relaxing bath? Are you paralyzed by all the decisions you need to make to go from mid-century “modern” (that’s an oxymoron) to 21st century clean and new? Not to overwhelm you more but there is something like 137 decisions that need to be made for a bathroom remodel. (I don’t know if I’ve made 137 conscious decisions this year!). Let me help get you started down that path to conquering your bathroom remodel dilemma. With those two steps completed you are now ready to talk to a professional. Maybe it’s a designer that is going to help you put that vision board together or help your Pinterest board come to life. Many interior designers have packages that they offer to help get your ideas out of your head and on to paper. Even if you don’t know what you want, they can help with that too. Designers can do basic drawings so you can actually see the end result and go so far as to help you pick out fixtures and tile all the way to sourcing and ordering the materials. Call your local home builders’ association for vetted designers that are members. Google “interior designers” in your area and read their reviews. Pick three, call them and see what they have to offer and if you feel a connection. You want to feel good working with this person, and they need to understand your style and desires. Think first date. Maybe you’re fortunate enough to already know that you want large format tile in the shower, gold fixtures, and heated floors you just need someone to DO IT! You can be your own general contractor (GC) but if making decisions and babysitting are not things you have the time or energy to do, a good GC is your best bet to get this done. Again, check out the local builders’ association, ask friends for referrals for who they used AND liked. (Do you remember your friends telling you horror stories about their kitchen remodel nightmare? Don’t use that GC.). Picking a GC can be tricky, and their pricing can be widely varied. The price difference is not about one company making more money than the other but more about does the company have a lot of overhead? Do they have a large staff? Is it just one guy and his truck? Do the employees receive benefits or are they working for cash under the table? Those behind-the-scenes things are important to understand when comparing bids from different companies. Well, PH, I hope this has given you a little motivation to get started and has broken it down into a few bite-sized pieces. We’ll pick this up again. Remember to breathe! Your remodel coach and cheerleader! Amy
The Importance of Choosing the Right Materials for Kitchen Remodeling in Seattle
Kitchen remodeling can go a long way when it comes to rejuvenating your love for your home. Taking the time to research and choose the best materials for your project can ensure a successful and satisfying kitchen renovation. Aesthetics Whether you prefer a modern, sleek design or a more traditional, cozy atmosphere, selecting materials that complement your desired aesthetic is essential. For example, natural stone or butcher block countertops can add warmth and character to a kitchen, while glossy tiles or stainless steel accents create a contemporary vibe. Longevity Choose kitchen materials that can withstand heavy use, heat, moisture, and stains. Opting for durable materials such as quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and solid wood cabinets ensures that your kitchen will last longer without significant wear and tear. Home Value Investing in high-quality materials can potentially increase the resale value of your home. Prospective buyers often prioritize kitchens when house hunting, so choosing durable, attractive materials can make your home more appealing to potential buyers and potentially fetch a higher resale price. Functionality Kitchen remodeling should make your life easier on a day-to-day basis. Things like easy-to-clean countertops and excellent storage options can all make your home more functional in your daily life. A remodel is an excellent opportunity to make your kitchen a better place to work and live. Need Kitchen Remodeling in Seattle? When you need the best remodeling and construction services possible, AmyWorks is here for you. Whether you want to remodel a kitchen, bathroom, or basement, add a deck, or construct an ADU, our team of experienced professionals will work with you every step of the way. Learn more about us or contact us today to get your project started! Beautiful Kitchen Remodeling in Seattle Serving the Greater Seattle Area
Challenges You May Encounter During ADU Construction in Seattle
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) construction can be a rewarding project, but it does come with its fair share of challenges. Here are some common ones you might encounter. Zoning and Permitting Local zoning laws and building codes can vary significantly, and navigating through them to get the necessary permits for your ADU can be complex. You may encounter restrictions on the size, height, setback requirements, and even the number of ADUs allowed on a property. Space Limitations In some cases, you could end up dealing with limitations on the amount of space you have to work with. This is especially true for people with smaller backyards or limited property areas. Work with a professional designer to come up with a space-saving design that still gets you everything you’re looking for in an ADU unit. Timeline Issues Delays in obtaining permits, unexpected construction challenges, or inclement weather can all contribute to project timeline delays. It’s essential to build in buffer time when planning your construction schedule to account for these potential setbacks. Need ADU Construction in Seattle? Despite these challenges, with careful planning, research, and the right team of professionals, you can successfully navigate the ADU construction process and create a valuable addition to your property. When you need the best remodeling and construction services possible, AmyWorks is here for you. Whether you want to remodel a kitchen, bathroom, or basement, add a deck, or construct an ADU, our team of experienced professionals will work with you every step of the way. Learn more about us or contact us today to get your project started! All You Need to Know About ADU Construction in Seattle Serving the Greater Seattle Area
Benefits of Porch and Deck Remodeling in Seattle
The front of your home is incredibly important when it comes to its curb appeal and style. A new porch or deck can go a long way toward making your home look its absolute best. Knowing some of the benefits of porch and deck remodeling will help you decide if it’s the right decision for your home. Increased Home Value When you remodel your porch or deck, you can think of it as an investment. A porch or deck that’s in great condition will increase the value of your home. Should you decide to sell at any point, you can make the most of the sale with a deck that looks great. Extended Living Space Getting as much usable space out of your home is important. With a porch or deck, you can increase the square footage of space that you can use on a daily basis. This opens up room inside the home and gives you the kind of outdoor area that can be used year-round. Improved Functionality When you do porch and deck remodeling, you have an opportunity to add new design elements. This can be a great way to make your home more functional overall. Things like lighting and other elements can give your home the usability and versatility it needs. Need Porch and Deck Remodeling in Seattle? When you need the best remodeling and construction services, AmyWorks is here for you. Whether you want to remodel a kitchen, bathroom, or basement, add a deck, or construct an ADU, our team of experienced professionals will work with you every step of the way. Learn more about us or contact us today to get your project started! Beautiful Porch and Deck Remodeling in Seattle Serving the Greater Seattle Area
Budget-Friendly Kitchen Remodeling Ideas in Seattle
Remodeling a kitchen on a budget in Seattle can be both exciting and challenging, but with some strategic planning and creativity, you can achieve a fresh, stylish look without breaking the bank. With these tips, you can transform your kitchen into a stylish and functional space without overspending. Refresh Your Cabinets Start by focusing on minor cosmetic changes that have a significant impact, such as repainting cabinets in trendy hues or replacing outdated hardware with modern, affordable alternatives. Opt for open shelving instead of expensive upper cabinets to add an airy feel while showcasing your favorite dishware. Update the Backsplash Your backsplash is one of the focal points of your kitchen and it is fairly easy to redo. Simple peel-and-stick tiles can go a long way toward refreshing your kitchen area. You can also have the backsplash professionally done for a beautiful accent. Think Outside the Box Shop at local thrift stores, salvage yards, and online marketplaces for unique and budget-friendly finds. Additionally, doing some of the work yourself, like painting or installing a backsplash, can significantly cut labor costs. Need Help With Your Kitchen Remodeling Ideas in Seattle? When you need the best remodeling and construction services possible, AmyWorks is here for you. Whether you want to remodel a kitchen, bathroom, or basement, add a deck, or construct an ADU, our team of experienced professionals will work with you every step of the way. See examples of our finished kitchen projects in our gallery. Learn more about us or contact us today to get your project started! Innovative Kitchen Remodeling Ideas in Seattle Serving the Greater Seattle Area
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Remodelers’ Council Builder of the Year
AmyWorks owner Amy Ecklund recognized as Remodelers’ Council Builder of the Year by the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties. AmyWorks owner Amy Ecklund was recognized as the Remodelers’ Council Builder of the Year by the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) at the 37th annual Remodeling/Trades Remodeling Excellence Awards. The Remodelers’ Council is a fellowship of remodelers and associates who share their acquired industry knowledge and business practices, promote the general welfare of their membership and sustain participation in MBAKS through mentorship, education and service. Amy is a graduate of the Small Business Administration (SBA) Emerging Leaders Program, a current member of the Greater Seattle Business Administration, a past participant of the University of Washington Foster School of Business: Small Business Growth Collaborative Cohort and carries the National Association of Home Builders designation as a Certified Graduate Remodeler and Certified Builder designation through the Building Industry Association of Washington. AmyWorks was founded in 2010 and specializes in bathroom, kitchen, basement, garage and porch remodels and repairs in the Seattle, Washington area. AmyWorks is an inclusive organization and very involved in the community, partnering with the Low Income Housing Institute to build a tiny house community for women experiencing homelessness and hosting workshops for anyone interested in gaining confidence with power tools or learning the basics of electrical and plumbing repairs around the home. Find more information about Amy Ecklund and the services and workshops that AmyWorks offers. Founded in 1909 and headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) is one of the nation’s oldest and largest local homebuilders’ associations. Its members include professional homebuilders, architects, remodelers, tradespeople (carpenters, framers, roofers, plumbers, electricians), planners and engineers, suppliers, manufacturers, and sales and marketing professionals who believe everyone deserves access to a healthy and productive place to call home. Learn more at mbaks.com.
Major Grant to Wood Technology Center at Seattle Central College
Amy Ecklund of AmyWorks serves as co-chair of the Technical Advisory Committee for the Wood Tech Center. We all celebrate a generous grant from the Lowes Foundation. The Lowe’s Foundation announced a $750,000 grant to Seattle Central College’s Wood Technology Center. The award — part of a new 5-year, $50 million Lowe’s initiative to prepare 50,000 people for skilled trades careers — is one of eleven first-round grants to community colleges nationwide. “Eighty-five percent of contractors tell us they have trouble finding the skilled trades workers they need,” said Denise Hill, Lowe’s Foundation board member and Lowe’s Vice President of Corporate Communications & Community Relations. “With this award from the Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grants program, we’re proud to support Seattle’s top source of trained carpenters while building a sustainable and inclusive workforce to revitalize our homes, neighborhoods and infrastructure for the future.” “We’re deeply honored by the support,” said Rob Watt, Associate Dean of the Wood Technology Center. “We’ve worked hard to build an array of programs that serves carpenters at every stage of the profession, from those just starting out, to seasoned pros returning to master the latest technology. Having our efforts recognized this way means a lot.” “This grant shows how we can better partner with industry and community to prepare more graduates in the construction trades and address a severe housing shortage in the process,” commented Dr. Bradley Lane, interim president of Seattle Central. “We need more homes for the homeless so they don’t suffer and die on the street,” emphasized Rep. Frank Chopp of Seattle’s 43rd Legislative District, former speaker of Washington’s House of Representatives. “But we also need more starter homes for individuals and families who are just starting out. As we grow the number of graduates at the Wood Technology Center, in part through this Lowe’s grant, these are the challenges we can more fully take on.” Programs at the Wood Technology Center include the Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Training (PACT) certificate program, associate degree programs in carpentry and boat building/fine carpentry, and a new nine-month certificate program in residential construction. All programs have a strong focus on inclusivity, with growing percentages of students who are women and people of color. “We provide a doorway into a construction job for anybody who has interest, because nobody should be left out of these opportunities,” stated Catie Chaplan, Lead Instructor in the Center’s associate degree program in carpentry. “Interest in the trades is extremely strong at our schools,” noted Dr. Rosie Rimando-Chareunsap, Chancellor of Seattle Colleges. “And that’s extremely good for our community…because there is so much hands-on work to be done over the next several years — over the next generation — for our city’s livability and sustainability. “This generous investment by the Lowe’s Foundation will help scale up the critical work of the Wood Technology Center, and ensure we have the housing and infrastructure to thrive as a region — and thrive equitably.” The $750,000 Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grant will enable growth at the Wood Technology Center by adding a staff member to recruit and retain students and help grads with internships, apprenticeships and continuing education. Lowe’s funds will also support a new site manager to better coordinate logistics, such as procuring and distributing materials and acquiring and caring for tools and equipment. “We have our challenges as a city,” said Deputy Mayor Greg Wong at the press conference. “But when I’m out in the community what I hear is not complaints, but questions from people about how they can help. And what I say is that it’s about partnerships. We need government to step up, we need education systems to step up, we need our corporate partners to step up. Well, today you see that happening on all three fronts. Thank you, Lowe’s, for being part of it.”