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Saving money by design

July 1st, 2010

In a poll we recently published, one respondent asked how using a design firm can help save money in the long run.  Good question, thanks for asking.

It does seem to be an oxymoron to say that one can save money by spending it.  Old adages about saving & earning pennies, getting what you pay for, etc., often lead one to sidestep what could be the most important part of any project: planning.  In order to save money on your next remodeling project, I believe we must discuss Proper Planning, Effective Presentation, and Critical Collaboration.
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Try, try again

June 16th, 2010

My nemesisMy son had a friend stay overnight last night, and he brought his RipStik® to play with.  Just out of curiosity, I had to try it today.

Let me tell you that as easy as those young kids make it, it ISN’T!  I’ve seen these toys before, and often wondered how they did it – on two wheels that swivel, no less!  I fell off many times this afternoon, while my daughter and son were offering their sage advise: “Maybe if you were younger, Daddy” and “Dad, you just start by pushing off and then move your feet.”  Ah, the great wisdom of a 7 and 9 year-old!
…continue reading Try, try again »

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Tips for Project planning

September 29th, 2009
  1. observe the need (list: dark kitchen, cramped entertainment space, lack of space, etc.)
  2. figure your ability to pay. (Need to know your financial limits – not how much it will cost)
  3. hire a professional design & build team (note that the contractor is included this early in the process)
  4. decide upon your needs.  Some will be goals that would be nice, while other require extra attention, and the rest will be non-negotiable.
  5. plan the project with your team (see HotTips) – hopefully, you will be able to review the design process in a fun, and changeable, 3-dimensional, lifelike, environment.
  6. approve the project, and
  7. enjoy the finished product
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