Top Design Trends

At RDS, Residential Designed Solutions, we pride ourselves on staying ahead of the trends so when our clients come in with ideas that are trending or need our help to create what they can’t verbalize, we’ve got the answers! There are many trends out there, and three that were popular last year are still popular for this year! The beauty is not only that are they trending, but also they are timeless, so you can’t go wrong incorporating these into your home. 

Indoor/Outdoor Convergence:

• Indoor/outdoor convergence means making the outdoor living areas come in, and the indoor living areas go out by creating a fluid separation between spaces.
• Retractable glass walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, walls or doors, and doors that are stackable are ways to accomplish the indoor/outdoor transition.
• The goal is to connect sunrooms, pool areas, patios, or outdoor kitchens with the indoor great room, dining room, or kitchen, making them appear to be one large open space.
• Outdoor living space has become as important as indoor living space; so connecting the two seamlessly is crucial. The need for areas to relax and entertain has become a necessary design feature.

Board and Batten:

• Board and batten is a type of paneling that alternates wide boards and narrow battens (wooden strips).
• This material used to be relegated to the exterior of a home but has now emerged as an interior trend.
• Using board and batten either vertically or horizontally adds depth and interest to walls, especially in entryways. 
• Varying the width of the boards creates a customized look and feel.
• Using board and batten will create a playful, rustic, yet contemporary design.
• The battens are usually placed over the seams of the boards. 

Mid-Century Modern:

• Clean lines, large windows, open spaces that integrate nature, and flat planes are hallmark designs of mid-century modern architecture.
• The goal of mid-century modern design to make what is old, new, and what is new, old.
• Windows, trim, types of materials, changes in elevation inside and out, exterior design, walls, and interior design can all be altered to create this look.
• The mid-century modern design has simple contemporary elements, so taking an older home and renovating it is a viable option, as is designing a new home from the ground up. 
• The proportions of the home are kept lower, allowing nature to be viewed from all rooms, and daylight to be let in. The front of the home will be more private than other areas of the home.
• Outdoor living is an integral part of the design, giving you a much-loved area of your home.

Trends are just that-trends, but these three are timeless, contemporary, and will be here for a long while. Our designers would be honored to work with you to design the home you have been thinking about. 

What Our Clients Have to Say

At RDS, we believe that designing a home is one of the most satisfying parts of our work. We love building relationships with our clients, and working with them to bring their dreams to reality. We want you to get an idea of what our clients think of their experience when working with us. 

Name: Katy & Jamie Burrier

How was your experience with RDS – Residential Designed Solutions?
Our experience was amazing. From our first meeting to the final touches, Jim and his team understood our vision. They were incredibly professional and responsive to all of our needs.

What space(s) did you have redesigned, (if applicable) or did you have a new home designed?
We had a new home designed from scratch.

What is the favorite aspect of your new home design?
Our favorite part was the initial drawing that Jim provided because it was designed by hand and was a true reflection of our dream come true on paper!

If you could change one thing, what would you change?
Honestly, we had to think hard to answer this question! I think the only thing we would say is that when the invoices are created, having line item details for invoicing would help with understanding changes.

What was your overall experience like?
We felt like we were in GREAT hands with Jim and his team. We always felt like we mattered as a customer. If it weren’t for Jim’s experience and creativity we wouldn’t be building where we are. We were stuck with how to split the lot and make our house work while leaving a nice sized lot for other buyers (or we wouldn’t have been able to buy the property). In 15 minutes on-site, Jim had an idea that saved our dream lot and made it possible. You don’t see that every day. 

What advice would you offer to someone who is designing a home or redesigning a space in the home?
The most important thing is to spend time ahead of your first meeting looking at floor plans, Pinterest, and Houzz and know in general what your vision is. We actually cut out floor plans and brought our favorite parts of each one to our first meeting, which we believe helped Jim understand our vision from the start. And he’s simply THAT good. Did you know he can draw like a pro upside down so you can be involved in the conversation as we talked through options?

Who else did you reach out to for designing your home?
We did not consider another architect after meeting Jim. We knew he was a good fit for us and had the experience and referrals to back that decision up! 

Would you do it again?
If and only if it was with RDS!

Let our designers help you make your dreams a reality. We’d be honored to work with you! 

Jim's Tip - Who Comes First?

I recently read an article in one of our trade publications written by a builder explaining in great detail why he insisted on being the initial contact with potential clients. He spent a good amount of column space demonstrating that his clients were best represented by working through his process to develop designs for their project. His belief was that only through a process such as his, would clients be able to have plans developed that would be able to be built with-in their budget.

Having worked as a residential designer both independently and in the employ of several builders, I certainly understand his perspective. It is very common for clients to come into our office with grand dreams, essentially with “champagne taste and a beer budget” as the saying goes. Someone must introduce some hard cold facts into the conversation very early so that realistic expectations are set before pen or mouse are in motion.

There is nothing worse than having a set of construction documents fully developed only to find out that the house is way over the client’s budget. A lot of money has been wasted including the builders’ time along with all his trade partners, bidding a useless set of plans. The point that the builder was emphasizing was that costs must be part of the discussion and controlled all the way through the design and construction process. I couldn’t agree more.

All our designers have construction management and hands on building experience which allows us to have a realistic cost perspective when initially meeting with clients. We always have a cost discussion before we get started so it really doesn’t matter who qualifies the client. The key is tracking costs at every step of the design process, from initial sketch “ballpark” pricing to final construction/contract documents.

The point that I want to convey is that it really doesn’t matter who comes first if both the builder and their designer are working closely together. The resulting home will be one that the clients are thrilled to own at a cost they are comfortable with. Contact RDS to see how seamlessly we can become part of your team.

The Challenge – Using Repurposed Timber Framed Barns

Ever have a challenge you can’t refuse? Our client wanted to develop a family retreat and as we began the design process, he came to us with an unusual challenge: to find a way to use two repurposed timber framed barns in the designs. Of course, we were excited about this request!

The smaller of the two timber frames is the cabin, which actually offered more challenges. The horizontal beams fell into some of the head room of the spaces, so we removed some and worked around the others that we were able to keep. 

The larger structure will be the main shared living space. It is built around a very unique gambrel roofed timber frame, which you don’t often see in Ohio. The frame becomes the core of the building and then “tractor shed” additions are added to the sides. One side becomes a bedroom suite, and the opposite is a screened porch, large enough to accommodate all the family at the same time.

The photos of the barn as it was being dismantled show the age and complexity we were working with.

Both timber frames were located and will be erected by Doug Morgan of Mount Vernon Barn Company, whose vision is to save and repurpose one hundred year old barns. I think they are well on their way!

Rendering credit goes to Derrick Davis of Davis Rogers Interiors.

A Walk to the Gazebo

At RDS, not only do we design houses, we design outdoor spaces. This amazing project came about as a continuation of work done by a landscape professional. The owners wanted to access the pool and pool house via a covered walkway from their study, which is mid-level between the first and second floor. 

Highlights:

• Created an outdoor room as a gazebo feature as a halfway point in the height transition to allow spaces to flow naturally
• Installed an illuminated lantern and LED up lighting inside the gazebo so that it glows in the evening
• Built a bridge on the lower covered walkway over the stream with a glass floor panel to walk across, providing a view of the stream

Construction was handled by Mark Cimenello of Cimenello’s Landscaping. Finishes and color selections were by Derrick Davis and Deana Rogers of Davis Rogers Interiors.

Do you have an outside room project you have been thinking about starting? Our designers here at RDS would love to work to create the perfect outdoor space for you. Contact us so we can make your dream a reality!

Updating the Lower Level

Our clients came to us with a problem many home owners face – how to make a lower level space updated and contemporary. They had several issues we had to address and we were able to create effective, yet contemporary changes to make this an incredible space.

Goals:

• Turn the stairs into a straight run
• Add a wine cellar as a visual part of the room
• Add a large bar and entertainment area that flows to the outdoor living area
• Create a full theatre room 
• Embrace a contemporary aesthetic

Highlights of Our Design:

• Relocated several plumbing lines and a water heater
• Reframed the stairs and new trim, flooring, and finishes
• Installed a replacement door system for better operation and weather sealing
• Removed the existing stair landing and replaces with a straight run built with glass treads illuminated from beneath
• Wine cellar is a series of commercial glass doors allowing a view of the entire collection 
• Large island was wrapped in a waterfall of marble in a bold green and black 

The builder for this contemporary space was Charlie Griffey of Griffey Remodeling.

Our designers at RDS can work with you to renovate or remodel any room in your home to make it whatever you dream it should be. Let’s get the conversation started and the project underway!

What Our Clients Have to Say - A long term client

At RDS, we believe that designing a home is one of the most satisfying parts of our work. We love building relationships with our clients, and working with them to bring their dreams to reality. We want you to get an idea of what our clients think of their experience working with us. 

What was your experience with RDS – Residential Designed Solutions?
It was a good experience. The designs were creative and the designers were responsive to my requests. He worked hard to stay within our budget.

What space(s) did you have redesigned, (if applicable) or did you have a new home designed?
We expanded our family room, laundry room and storage closet using the existing garage. We built a new, oversized 2-car garage. We needed more space and thought about enclosing our porch and making it a 4-season room. But it was less money to use the existing garage and build a new garage.

What is the favorite aspect of your new home design?
It blended perfectly with existing house and did not appear to be an addition. The bricks match on the front of the home. We did change the windows so that they are all on the same line. Due to our builder’s expertise, all of the floors and woodwork match in the home.

If you could change one thing, what would you change?
There is nothing I would change.

What was your overall experience like?
It was an overall excellent experience. We are thrilled with the look of the home. Anyone looking at it wouldn’t even know that we did anything to the home. That was important to me. Jim and I have similar ideas, which made it easy to work with him. He was able to advise me with how to get the best bang for my buck. 

What advice would you offer to someone who is designing a home or redesigning a space in the home?
Take your time and revisit the plan several times before you finalize the plan.

Who else did you reach out to for designing your home?
No one.

Would you do it again?
Yes! Jim is actually helping us design our new home. We have a great partnership. Jim is very responsive. He is able to take my ideas and articulate them. We’re excited for our new home to be built!

We are so happy that this client not only loves her existing home, but is now building another home we designed for her and her husband. Let our designers help you make your dreams a reality. We’d be honored to work with you!

Creating Space for the Family

After raising their children in this home, and now after weddings and grandchildren, our clients realized the size of their family had exceeded the size of what their kitchen, dining and family room could hold. Due to sheer numbers, family gatherings had become a space issue. Our clients love to cook and entertain, so the design process started in the kitchen with the idea of adding a serving bar. We opened the space, alleviated congestion and enabled the family to gather all at the same time, in the same area. 

What We Did:

• Renovated the kitchen by installing new appliances and custom cabinetry
• Opened the family room to the kitchen  
• Designed and installed a custom serving bar
• Converted 3 separate rooms into a single living space
• Created an area large enough to enable the whole family to dine together
• Maintained the character of the existing home while updating
• Installed new wood flooring throughout the living area and entryway
• Designed and installed custom built-ins and a mantel at the fireplace, along with an adjacent TV cabinet

Highlights:

• Installed can lights into the beam over the serving bar, eliminating the need for “dropped” lighting fixtures
• Eliminated traffic flow bottlenecks in several areas by increasing the width of the opening from foyer to family living areas and relocating the basement door
• Installed a touchless sink faucet
• Increased the kitchen size by capturing unused space behind existing refrigerator and oven

From our client’s vision to reality, we were delighted to exceed their expectations. They have been enjoying the comforts of their newly renovated home, as they share it with family and friends.

Dave Osmond Builders built this beautiful renovation project.

Should you Remodel or Renovate Your Kitchen?

Why should you remodel or update your kitchen? At RDS, our designers are often asked about kitchens and how we can help our clients make their kitchens more efficient, updated, and current. What should you be thinking about if you are contemplating a remodel of your kitchen?

• Is It Outdated? 
  Your kitchen may have worked for you in the past, but now it appears to be outdated. It might be in good shape, but not for your life now. Maybe the tiles are cracking or worn, the countertops are out of style, or the cabinets are broken or too small. Are the appliances old and not working for your family’s needs? It might need a new patio door, or skylights to add light to the room.
   
• Do You Need to Change the Space or Function? 
  Counter space, cabinet space, and work space are some of the biggest reasons to update your kitchen. Most of us want more room for cooking, storage, and family work or gathering areas. You might want to increase the area so that there can be more than one cook, or to set up a computer work station. An island so that you can have a quick meal together might be a wanted change.
   
• Are You Dreaming of a Gourmet Kitchen? 
  You love to cook, read and try recipes, and love state of the art appliances and gadgets. Your main reason for a remodel is to create your dream kitchen so that you can prepare great meals and entertain.
   
• Is Storage or Lack of it an Issue? 
  You don’t have room for your appliances, dishes, serving ware, and pantry staples. Increasing your storage space might be the impetus for remodeling. A walk in pantry, bigger cabinets, and reworking your existing storage spaces, are all good reasons to remodel.
   
• Do You Need the Kitchen Open to More Rooms in the House? 
  Everyone ends up in the kitchen when entertaining and if the kitchen is closed off, this doesn’t work. You might need to open up the space, build a large island, rework the flow, and create entertaining spaces.

Whatever your reasons are for remodeling your kitchen, RDS, your leader in kitchen designs and renovation plans, is here to answer your questions and work with you to design your perfect space.

Jim's Tips of the Trade…..Plan Distribution

No one would ever accuse me of being “tech savvy”, but over the past few years, I have learned a few things about PDF plan file sizes, print costs and sharing the files in the cloud. Maybe a few of these ideas could make your daily workload a little lighter.

Up until a few years ago, we printed plans and then had to run them around to subs and tradespeople to get bids and then provide everyone with new sets after the cost-driven changes were made. I know some folks are still doing it that way because “my subs don’t use computers”. They don’t use computers because you haven’t required them to join the computer age.

We find file sizes have continued to grow to the point that Gmail and some of the other servers will not accept the plans without breaking them down into separate sheets. To get around this problem we use DropBox. It is free up to a certain storage size and works like a file folder on your computer desktop. The beautiful thing about it is that you can invite your suns and tradespeople to join the folder. When you add a file to your desktop it appears in theirs. They always have the most up to date file and you don’t have to pay for prints or spend hours running plans everywhere. They’re responsible for printing their own sets for bid meetings or going paperless with an iPad or another device.

Bluebeam is an inexpensive program that PDF plans can be loaded into for use on an Ipad device that allows photographs to be taken on the job site and notes added to them along with adding notes to the PDF plans-no more rolling a set out and trying to write notes in mid-air and trying to read your scribble later. You can also send the file afterwards to everyone who needs it.

Now you’ve found a few additional hours of productive time each week and everyone you work with is instantly up to date with the latest info. Good communication can be a wonderful thing!