Is it time to invest in some home upgrades? Whether you want to build an addition for your growing family, modernize your kitchen, or upgrade your bathroom, working with a residential architect can make the process faster and smoother. Although we’re in the era of DIY remodeling projects, you may find you’ve gotten in over your head, and the guidance of a professional suddenly becomes invaluable. Here’s how an architect can help you upgrade your home.
Optimize the LayoutWhen working with space and size limitations, an architect can help you optimize your layout so that you don’t waste any space and you get the most out of it. Many homeowners don’t have the luxury of unlimited space, meaning you need to work within the existing parameters, which can make renovations seem challenging. But experienced residential architects understand the art of the possible and can help you see the potential. High Quality DesignDo you know which upgrades will increase the value of your home? Most of us don’t, however it’s an important consideration to think about when renovating or remodeling. Architects are very familiar with which designs will increase the value of your home, whether it’s a small renovation or a complete remodel. Leverage Technology When you have a vision in your mind, it’s not always easy to translate it in a way that brings it to life for others to see. Residential architects use the latest software, including 3D modeling programs, that allow you to see a virtual model of what your home upgrades will look like. Architectural technology has advanced tremendously over the last twenty years or so, and it helps avoid expensive mistakes along the way. Save MoneyThat’s right – hiring an architect can actually save you money in the end. Architects recommend the most cost-effective designs, they use their market connections to source affordable materials, and they can introduce you to contractors who charge fair prices for their work. Residential architects work with many different budgets, so don’t assume that you can’t afford to hire someone. Oversees Project Every project needs a responsible project manager, and that’s one of the many roles that an architect plays. Overseeing a project includes everything from drawing up the initial virtual model to sourcing materials to keeping track of both the budget and the timeline. It’s often very overwhelming for homeowners to take on this responsibility themselves, which is why it’s best to leave it to the professionals. And while you will be in regular contact with your architect, you won’t be burdened with the daily tasks, calls, and updates involved in your project that can cause added stress. If you’d like to speak with us about how we can help you with your home upgrades, please contact our team at Seth A. Leeb Architecture today or visit us at: https://leeb-architecture.com/ This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/architects-help-upgrade-your-home/
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With millions of people now working from home at least part of the week, having a custom home office is essential to staying productive. You need a place where you can concentrate, be free of distractions, and get through your workday uninterrupted. Your home office should also feel comfortable and be aesthetically pleasing, so if you’re ready to design a new office space for yourself, consider incorporating the following elements.
Industrial office design stylesIndustrial interior design is a style we expect to see more of in 2023. It consists of many exposed materials like brick, concrete, and wood, textures that have a slightly worn-out look, like sanded walls and floors, and bold accent pieces. Envision a converted warehouse or a repurposed commercial building when going for an industrial design style – there will be a lot of exposed piping and other metalwork, large windows, wooden beams across the ceilings, and large light fixtures. Eco office design stylesBuilding a custom home office is a great opportunity to make the space eco friendly. With your home computer running all day, there will be other ways to offset your energy usage, such as installing LED light bulbs in the ceiling and in the lamps. You can also opt to use recycled materials for your remodel or renovation, and you can choose locally-sourced materials from sustainable contractors. We also recommend incorporating some green elements into your home office. Even a few small plants can really brighten up your space and contribute to clean air, and there are many low-maintenance indoor plants you can choose from. Flexible Work SpacesYou undoubtedly don’t want to sit at your desk for eight hours a day. Sometimes you need a little change of environment, so consider adding in a small table opposite your desk where you can take calls, type up your notes, or even take breaks throughout the day. Other members of your family may need to use your office after work hours, for example to study, so having several places to sit will be beneficial. Comfy and Ergonomic Design StylesA comfortable work chair is the most important thing in your home office. We also recommend investing in an ergonomic keyboard and mouse, an adjustable height desk, and blue light monitors that won’t hurt your eyes. People who work in offices are repeatedly told to get up and take breaks, give their eyes a rest, and to do little stretches throughout the day, so you should do the same. Investing in ergonomic office equipment for your home office is absolutely worth it. For more information about designing your ideal custom home office, or if you have any residential architectural questions, please contact us by visiting our website at: https://leeb-architecture.com/ This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/how-to-design-a-new-home-office/ As we welcome the New Year, it’s a great time to think about what projects you want to tackle in 2023. Perhaps a home renovation or a remodel has been on your list for awhile, and this is the year you’ll finally get it done. Both renovations and remodels can increase the value of your home, while also making it more suitable to your needs. If you’re looking for some home reno inspiration, here are five trends we expect to see a lot of throughout the year.
Spa BathroomsEveryone needs a place to relax and unwind after a long day, so why not transform one of your bathrooms into a peaceful, tranquil spa-like environment? Features like a large bathtub with jets, soft lighting and calming color choices can make you feel like you’re indulging in a spa day every day. Add some scented candles and soothing music for a final touch. Striking WallpapersYou may think that wallpaper is very 1970s, but bold and striking wallpaper patterns are back in style. Wallpaper is a great way to add dimension and character to a smaller space, and you can choose to wallpaper one accent wall or all of them. Another benefit of wallpaper is it’s more affordable than paint, so if you’re on a tight budget, consider using a striking wallpaper. Large Statement WindowsNatural light enhances any room in your home, especially if you live in a sunny climate and enjoy gazing at clear blue skies. Consider adding large windows in your living room and in your kitchen, two rooms where you probably spend most of your time. You can opt for floor-to-ceiling statement windows or a large window bank, built with UV-blocking technology to keep you safe. One of the best things about adding large windows to your home is that it instantly makes the space feel more open. Kitchen Islands That Are Multi-FunctionalIf you’ve ever been in a kitchen that has an island, you probably observed that it serves as the central hub of the kitchen, a place where everyone gathers whether they’re eating or not. We’ve seen a recent trend of people saving space by building dishwashers, sinks, pull-out garbage cans and even wine fridges into their kitchen islands, making it a more multi-functional space. Custom Storage Solutions Storage is something that many people struggle with, so renovating or remodeling provides you with the perfect opportunity to build custom storage space. Built-in storage features like cubby shelves in the entryway, multiple bathroom hooks, and organizers for all of your electrical cords are a trend we’ll continue to see throughout 2023. You can customize your storage solutions to meet your exact needs, so whether you want your items to be easily accessible or hidden away, there are options for everyone. If you’d like to know more about the latest home remodeling or renovation ideas for 2023, or if you have any other architectural questions, please contact our team today. We look forward to designing your dream home. https://leeb-architecture.com/ This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/latest-home-renovation-and-remodeling-ideas/ Architecture is constantly evolving and adapting to trends, consumer demand, and sustainability needs. Whether you’re a homeowner who wants to knock down a part of your house and remodel it, or you’ve purchased a plot of land and you’re ready to begin your first home-building journey – it’s definitely worth being aware of the latest architecture trends from around the world. As a top architectural firm in NJ, we keep ourselves up to date on the latest trends, and we’re seeing these futuristic styles more and more frequently: Sustainable Building Designs Focused On NatureSustainability is a buzz word in architecture, and for good reason. There’s a growing importance placed on incorporating natural elements into building designs, as well as using sustainable solutions like solar panels for energy. Sustainable home designincludes several elements: first, is using recycled, repurposed, or second-hand materials for your build. Second is incorporating natural elements like a vertical garden or a rooftop garden. And third is using naturally sustainable materials like cork and bamboo that are eco-friendly. Modular Building DesignsModular building is when parts of a building are constructed off site, in a controlled environment (usually a factory), then transported to the main building site and fitted together. Modular construction is increasingly popular because it’s faster and results in less material waste. It also isn’t delayed by bad weather, which reduces your overall timeline. Most of all, the modules are built in a safe, controlled environment with less risk to everyone involved. Building ArchesWhen you think of arches you probably think of gothic, medieval buildings, but arches are making a big comeback. People are opting to build arches over their front doors and entranceways, giving it a unique flair. And large, arched windows are a fantastic way to incorporate more natural light into your home. Interior And Outdoor Design TrendsNow that many of us are working from home at least several days a week, we understand the benefits of having some outdoor space to decompress and enjoy a change of scenery. We’re seeing people add outdoor lounges, installing floor-to-ceiling glass French doors, and knocking down a wall or two in order to create a cozy, comfortable outdoor space to hang out. Local NJ Architect Can Incorporate Futuristic Designs Into Your HomeIf you’re interested in adding any of these futuristic designs into your home, please contact our architect Seth Leeb today. He has years of experience helping local homeowners and business owners remodel and upgrade their buildings in New Jersey. Even if you don’t think your existing space is suitable for an addition or a remodel, it’s worth speaking with Seth and understanding the art of the possible. If you’d like to know more about futuristic architecture styles, or if you have any other residential home design questions, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://leeb-architecture.com/ This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/futuristic-architecture-styles/ When you hear the word “architect,” what do you think about? Like many people, you probably envision someone drawing up blueprints, but residential architects do so much more than that. When you hire an architect to build or remodel your home, you’re hiring a partner who will go on this journey with you, who will be with you every step of the way, from beginning blueprints and framework to recommending wall colors and decor at the end. If you’re ready to hire someone to build or remodel your home in New Jersey, here’s what you should look for when selecting an architect. The person you choose should be able to do the following: Provide A Wealth Of Knowledge About Residential Homebuilding An architect’s knowledge covers the entire breadth of your project and includes:
Act As Homeowner’s Advocate You can think of your architect as the point person for all the additional tasks that come along with building or remodeling your home, such as doing site visits, coordinating material and product orders, completing paperwork, and reviewing the contractor’s work at every stage. It’s very difficult for you as the homeowner to find time to attend to all these tasks. However, they’re essential to your build, so your architect will ensure everything is moving forward as planned. Provide Residential Project AdministrationBudget and timeline can be two of the trickiest project elements to manage when building or remodeling a home. In addition, someone needs to be on site to supervise the build, inspect the work that’s being done, ensure the materials are up to par in terms of quality, and to ensure that the work is being done in accordance with the proposed budget and timeline. For people who aren’t architects it sounds very overwhelming, but experienced residential architects are adept at managing all elements of their projects – all while keeping the homeowner informed and up to date. As you can see, your architect will be responsible for so much more than simply drawing up your initial plans. They’ll act as a partner to you during this chapter of your life, and they’ll do what they can to alleviate your stress while ensuring you get exactly what you want in a home. If you’d like to speak with our residential architect about building your dream home in NJ, or if you have any questions, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://leeb-architecture.com/ This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/what-will-your-architect-do-for-you/ Are you planning a complete home remodel for springtime next year? You might think it’s best to wait until the weather warms to get started on your renovations, but our residential architects have plenty of experience with winter remodels, and they actually recommend remodeling your home during this chilly season. Here’s how you can get started now instead of waiting until spring.
Get the Design Plans FinalizedWhether you’re remodeling a single area of your house or your remodel is more expensive, the design plan phase can take longer than you think. If you need to get any building permits approved, local offices tend to be much less busy in the winter months, so your permits are likely to get approved more quickly. Work with your architect and your contractor to finalize your design plans and get your permits approved, so the remodel can begin more promptly. Architects & Contractors Slow SeasonWinter is the slow season for architects and contractors, while their availability in the spring and summer is often incredibly limited. You don’t want to wait ages for your preferred residential architect to have capacity to take on your remodel, so consider having the work done in winter when they’re more likely to be free. In addition to architects and contractors, winter is also the slow season for home improvement and home appliance retailers. So the appliances and fixtures you want are much more likely to be in stock if you remodel in the winter, versus between April and July, which they consider their busy season. Schedule Work to Start after the HolidaysThe winter holiday season is a time for people to gather with family and friends, and many of us have some much-needed time off work to rest, relax, and recharge. Perhaps your annual holiday tradition is to host a big dinner for your family, or maybe you have relatives from out of town coming to stay with you. Either way, we recommend waiting until right after the holidays to start your remodel, to ensure the construction doesn’t interfere with your holiday plans. Getting the remodel going in early January also gives you something exciting to focus on in the new year, with the hopes that it’ll be completed and ready for you to enjoy by spring. Contact your Local NJ Architect If you’re ready to get started on your remodeling job, or if you’re still in the planning phase and would like to better understand what’s possible within your budget and space, contact your local residential architect to start the conversation. This month is a great time to start bringing your ideas to life, and depending on the extent of your remodel, it’s likely to be finished just in time for spring. For more information about remodeling your home in the winter, or if you have any questions for our residential architects, please contact our team at Seth Leeb Architect today. You could also visit our website to see past home renovations for more inspiration here: https://leeb-architecture.com/projects The blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/start-your-home-remodel/ Building a new home is an exciting process, but can easily become stressful if you aren’t prepared – which includes properly managing your expectations. We’ve worked with hundreds of homeowners to help bring their dream home to life, and over the years we’ve gained a lot of valuable insight about the home-building journey. The trials, the tribulations and most importantly – the successes of building a house. With that said, here are five important things you should know before building a new home.
#1. The timeline is flexible Think of your timeline as a guide instead of something set in stone. You can estimate as best as possible, but it’s wise to factor in some extra time for delays due to weather, sourcing supplies, securing permits, scheduling conflicts with your contractor, and other “surprises.” It’s normal for new homes to take anywhere from an additional three months to a year to complete, so don’t get too caught up in adhering to a rigid timeline (trust us, it will prove better for your sanity). #2. Design with your future in mind Do you plan on having kids, or more kids, in the future? Do you anticipate needing extra rooms for elderly parents to live in down the road? These are just two questions you should ask yourself when designing your home. For example, young couples who plan to have children in the future need to incorporate their future family’s needs into the design process, or they’ll find themselves outgrowing their home too quickly. #3. Plan for storage Adequate storage space is essential to keep your home looking tidy and clutter-free. It’s easy to get swept up in the fun details of designing your master bathroom, or designing your game room, and your home’s storage space becomes an afterthought. But after speaking with many homeowners with past regrets, we know that planning for adequate storage space has to be a priority. Make sure to ask your architect to keep it top of mind when drawing up your design. #4. Finish the home before you move in We understand you’re eager to move into your new home, especially when the only thing left is the landscaping or some seemingly small details, but even small details can end up taking months to complete. You don’t want to be bothered by noisy and disruptive construction while you’re trying to enjoy your new home, so be patient and wait until everything is done before moving in. #5. Invest in the fixtures before decor The fixtures in your home will be around for years, so it’s worth investing in fixtures you love. This includes faucets, bathtubs, showers, towel rails, toilets, sconces, dishwashers, refrigerators, counter surfaces, ovens, and stove tops, just to name a few. Your decor – things like pillows, rugs, and paint colors – will likely change over the years as trends come and go, but your fixtures are meant to last. Seth A. Leeb custom NJ home designsIf you’re ready to get started on your custom homebuilding journey, our team at Seth Leeb Architect can help you make your dream home a reality. We’ll be with you every step of the way from drawing up the initial designs to your move-in date, and we’re ready to help you get started. For more information about what to expect when building a new home, or if you have any more questions for our residential architects, please contact our team at Seth Leeb Architect today or visit us at: https://leeb-architecture.com/ This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/tips-for-building-a-new-home/ Architects are involved in the entire homebuilding journey. From the early stages of conceptualization all the way through to the final product, an experienced residential architect will ensure exactly what the homeowner wants at each step. If you’re ready to design and build your own home, choosing the right architect is crucial. You’ll be working closely with this person and their team on a near-daily basis, so it’s important to find an architect who succeeds in these three key roles:
Role of Architects in ConstructionDuring the construction phase of your project, your architect is responsible for many elements, including:
Ensuring the client is happy with the drawings, or renderings as they are often called, gives the architect the green light to go ahead and begin the construction process. It’s an exciting step in the homebuilding journey and there’s no better feeling than watching your dream home become a reality. If you have any questions about working with a residential architect including how we can help you design your dream home, please contact our team today or visit our website at: https://leeb-architecture.com/ This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/main-functions-of-an-architect/ If it’s time to upgrade your home, you’re probably contemplating a renovation vs a whole new remodel and wondering which is the best option for you. Before making a decision, it’s good to be aware of all the considerations. For instance, which option is more cost-effective and less time-consuming? To help narrow it down, we recommend you speak with an experienced home renovation architect who can help you understand the best way forward for your home.
Which is the Most Cost-Effective?This depends on the design of your current home and what you want the end result to be. Many people think that new builds are more expensive, but that isn’t always true. For example, if your current home is two bedrooms, two bathrooms with no garage, and you want to remodel it into a four-bedroom, three-bathroom home with a large garage, there may be space limitations on your current property that make selling and building from scratch the most cost-effective option. The Price of Building NewIf you decide to build new instead of renovate, here are some of the costs you’ll incur:
The Price of RenovationsThe golden rule of renovating is to always expect the unexpected. While your architect will work within the existing parameters of your home, unplanned surprises often pop up, like harmful building materials that need to be replaced, or an aging plumbing system that no longer supports your home’s needs. The price of a renovation depends on what your plans are. You might want to add floor to ceiling glass windows across one side of your home, or perhaps you want to build a garage, or maybe add a second story for your expanding family. Whatever the case, seek advice from a professional to understand if what you want is within the realm of possibility. How an architect can help with building new or renovating An architect can inspect your current home then have a conversation with you about the changes and additions you want to make. They’ll then be able to explain what’s possible, give more cost-effective alternatives if needed and help you make a decision about renovating vs. remodeling that works for your timeline and your budget. Which Has a Quicker Project Duration?As mentioned above, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The timeline depends entirely on your current home combined with the extent of the work that needs to be carried out. As always, it’s necessary to factor in extra time for any unplanned surprises, like an outdated wiring system, faulty HVAC unit or increased lumber costs, which will add a bit of time onto your project timeline. If you have any questions about a renovation or remodel project in New Jersey, please contact our team today or visit our website at: https://leeb-architecture.com/ This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/renovation-vs-new-build/ Are you planning to build a home but having trouble deciding which architectural style is right for you? With seemingly endless choices when it comes to style and design it can be difficult to choose, but there is more to take into consideration than what looks nice. Things like your budget and the size of your family will also factor into the architectural style that works best. Here are some common architectural styles, including features that might make them the best choice for you.
Cape CodSimplicity, clean lines, and affordability are the main features of Cape Cod-style homes. These homes are recognizable by their rectangular shape and open floor plans, and they’re mostly built using wood. With slightly sloped roofs and symmetrical lines, Cape Cod-style homes are a classic choice. CraftsmanCraftsman homes have at least one feature that makes the home unique, and if you want a house with character and charm, this style may be for you. The interiors have a cozy, feel-good vibe created using exposed beams, handmade railings and unique woodwork, and the open plan design makes it a great style for families. Modern/PrairieIf you’re eco-conscious and want to let your garden and landscaping take center stage, Modern/Prairie homes are a good option. Homes in this style are sophisticated with clean lines, flat roofs, lots of glass and tile, minimal woodwork, and they incorporate sustainable energy sources. The interiors have a lot of natural light and the design is streamlined and minimal. ColonialFor those who love traditional design, Colonial homes offer just that with a look that never goes out of style. Colonial homes have existed since the 1600s and feature staples like evenly-spaced porches, shutters, and windows. Most Colonial homes are rectangle shaped and have square shaped rooms, making them ideal for families who want a classic design instead of something trendy. French ProvincialDo you love extravagance? Then consider a French Provincial home. Featuring luxurious bathrooms, oversized fireplaces, and elaborate gardens, these homes are grand with tall ceilings and accent windows. They’re usually built from stone, and stone also features in the interior as well. FarmhouseFarmhouse-style homes are very popular because they’re highly functional, simply designed, and have large, open rooms for families to enjoy. These homes are characterized by exposed beams and shabby chic finishes and design, and they’re considered very livable and casual. RanchPopular with empty nesters, Ranch-style homes are usually one story and designed for efficiency, meaning it’s easy to get from one side of the house to the other. These homes are affordable, built for accessibility, and often come with large garages. Ranch-style homes flow easily from indoors to outdoors, meaning you can enjoy your backyard with ease. If you’d like to know more about the many different architectural styles, or if you have questions about which one is best for your family and your budget, please contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you. This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/which-architectural-style-is-right-for-you/ |
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