A comprehensive design and the accompanying working drawings are the foundation of a successful project. You may have put a lot of thought into your proposed remodel, but the designer's job is to take the comprehensive view and consider all of the design elements. He will see things you may have overlooked, such as convenience of use, constructability, curb appeal, resale value, energy efficiency, and durability, just to name a few. It's his job to present you with all of the creative possibilities as well as any negatives.
There is a Design Process, which enables you to make informed choices leading to a final design. At each stage of this process, JB Hammer Designs shows you your remodel plans in 3D through videos and renderings. That removes the apprehension about how your completed project will look. Go to the next dropdown to learn more about the role of 3D in Remodel Design.
We measure and photograph the EXISTING HOUSE and create a DESIGN MODEL as shown in a Happy Valley project below. The model is created with 3D design software, and then developed into the FINAL DESIGN. Move your mouse to see the FINAL DESIGN and the COMPLETED PROJECT.
WITH 3D, YOU CAN SEE IT BEFORE YOU BUILT IT!
For interior remodel plans, you can walk into your floor plan and view your kitchen design. It is much easier to correct a computer model than it is to correct design errors after you project is built. Don't settle for less than a 3D design process. See the 3D Walk Through on the right side bar for an example of a video walkthrough.
We can also show you your project in Rendered Views which is a photo-realistic image of your remodel plan. Click the House Designs button on the House Plans page to see what rendered views look like. Click the Before and After Gallery on the right sidebar of this page to see some completed remodel projects.
Steps Towards Getting Your Remodel Project Moving
STEP 1: Contact us with basic information about your renovation project and we will give you a free preliminary estimate for your remodel design and permit drawings. If you can email some photos of the existing house, that's very helpful in giving a more accurate estimate.
STEP 2: With a preliminary estimate, which is acceptable to you, we will do an on-site visit to give a firm quote. In most cases, the quote does not vary from the estimate.
STEP 3: With your acceptance of the quote, we will sign a Design Agreement, and then gather information for developing your architectural designs and drawings. This will include photographs, measurements, and an interview regarding all of your preferences for the remodel.
STEP 4: We will begin on the initial designs. At the next session your designs will be shown to you in 3d, so you will have no question what the remodel will look like. You can select from the presentation options, and your choices will be reflected in each following design phase.
STEP 5: Each succeeding design session draws us closer to your Final Design. When you approve the Final Design, we will develop your Permit Drawings.
Would you like to design your project without leaving home? Perhaps you need ELECTRONIC DESIGN SESSIONS.
After the initial on-site visit to measure and photograph your remodel project, you have the option of completing the design process in our office where you can view your project on a large screen, or we can send you 3D videos and renderings via email to be viewed on your own computer. See the right side bar for an example of a 3D walkthrough.
It is a great time-saving device. Ask for Electronic Design Sessions.
If you are building a home addition, it makes sense to incorporate energy saving technology and healthy building materials. Not only can it save you money, but it protects your health.
Bruce Butler is a Sustainable Homes Professional and has produced plans for over 70 green homes in the Portland area.
For more information on the advantages of SUSTAINABLE DESIGN, please read the Common Sense Reasons for Green Design, and also visit our Sustainable page to see some of the services we offer.
Bruce Butler was a Design-Build contractor from 1975 to 2000 as JB Hammer Co. Inc. He was the first "certified" remodeler in Clackamas County, and a member of the Oregon Remodeler's Assoc. and the Home Builder's Assoc. He went into full-time building design in 2000 as JB Hammer Designs, Inc.
Since 2000, Bruce has served on Historic Review Boards for Clackamas County and the City of West Linn, and the Design Review Board for the City of Happy Valley. In 2008 he was certified as a Sustainable Homes Professional by the Earth Advantage Institute.
For 25 years as a design-builder, he had hands-on experience in every aspect of residential and light commercial construction. As a builder, he designed 30% of the home and remodel projects he completed. During that time, he maintained a perfect record with the Construction Contractor's Board.
Since 2000, Bruce has produced designs and drawings for hundreds residential new home and remodel projects. His background has enabled him to find creative solutions to difficult design situations. He has produced his own catalogue of home plans and sold them on line. He has traveled and studied architecture around the world and has been published on that topic. You can read some of his other published articles on the Sustainable Design page.
CONTENTS AND HIGHLIGHTS
1. PRELIMINARY CONSIDERATIONS Should you move or remodel? Comp values. Do you have space? Setbacks, height and building coverage. Other considerations.
2. DEFINING YOUR REMODEL What are your needs? Current housing trends. Cost-effective remodels. Sustainable considerations.
3. GETTING YOUR PROJECT MOVING Where do you start? Suggested sequence. Considerations for hiring a designer. Considerations for hiring a contractor.
4. MONITORING THE PROJECT Be prepared. Upon completion.
There is a national trend towards conservation in living space. The housing stats all show that. The question is, will that trend continue as the economy improves. Many authorities in the field think the trend towards smaller will continue. Design for comfort and quality is remaining steady, but it is being done in a smaller space. There are many ways of accomplishing that with built-ins, closet systems, and creative, space-saving, floor plans...
Cost-effective Remodels
Remodeling Magazine does a cost vs. value survey each year. The 2009 – 2010 chart shows that on the West Coast, a minor kitchen remodel has the best payback at 94.8%. A basement remodel has a potential payback of 91.6% and a wood deck at 91.5%. Window replacements, major kitchen remodel, attic bedroom addition, two story addition, siding replacement and bathroom remodels fall between 90% and 75%. Family room additions, master suites, and garage additions fall between 70% and 75%. These are very good numbers. It means that you can enjoy the remodel work and only lose a minor percentage of what it cost you to complete it. For more detail and to look up your specific project...
Download or read as PDF FREE Remodel eBook
All remodel projects begin with an interview.
If you have any questions, we will do our best to answer them. With a small amount of information, we can give you a general idea on design costs, please email or call Bruce today.
email: jbhammer@comcast.net
phone: 503-761-8300