DESIGN BLOG
“Builder” Partner Highlight: Page Vornbrock
Page Vornbrock is known to many in the banking industry, as well as the building and real estate industries in central Ohio. With multiple clients in real estate, Page focuses on marketing and selling home lots in the developments he manages. His relationship with Jim Wright and RDS is an important one, benefiting Page’s clients.
How long have you worked with Jim and the RDS Team?
I have worked with Jim for a long time. Residential Designed Solutions designed our personal residence in 1998 drawn on a restaurant napkin. My wife Cheryl and I had walked into a stunning home overlooking the mountains in Paradise Valley, Arizona, while on a trip out west. Cheryl immediately drew the floor plan of the home, and we took her sketches to Jim. He designed our home from these sketches and subsequent conversations. I’ve been working with Jim since.
Jim works with a large percentage of builders in Central Ohio. I send Jim clients if they don’t already have a builder or specific design idea in mind. In addition, when we receive home plans for the architectural review boards in the developments I manage, and if the client’s plans are not acceptable to the ARB, I suggest that they sit down with Jim and have him create the needed changes to the exterior (which is usually where issues arise) and bring life to the home.
Jim never seems to get rattled. He’s the nicest guy and the type of person you want to work with. I’m in his fan club!
What type of projects does Jim complete for your clients?
Jim’s undeniable success is his ability to spend quality time with clients that are looking to build a beautiful home and walking them through the process of designing what they want in that home.
Not everybody comes to our developments with a builder, especially if they are from out of town. I provide them a list of builders, architects, and home designers we work with, and always included at the top of the list is Residential Designed Solutions. I always recommend clients take the time to call at least three builders, architects, or designers to find the perfect fit.
What do you find RDS does differently than other designers?
The attention to detail, but beyond that, what sets Jim apart is his ability to listen to the client and get the client to articulate what’s important to them. His gift is to see, hear and understand what clients describe and to produce that vision on paper. From my own personal experience, he was able to hear our story, use our sketches and create the vision for our home. His talent for designing incredible homes never ceases to amaze me.
What services do you appreciate that RDS provides?
I have worked with Jim for so long–as have many of the builders I work with. This long-term relationship provides us with amazing response time, expectations met and exceeded, and incredible designs. Jim knows what we’re looking for and provides the right sense of style for each home in the development. He understands our expectations and our needs.
How is your overall experience when working with RDS?
Jim has set the tone for the entire RDS team, and the quality of the experience is nothing short of outstanding. His team is professional, responsive, and candid about expected time frames, so they are not overselling and underdelivering. I always know I’m getting unparalleled service with Residential Designed Solutions.
How COVID Continues to Affect the Building Industry
2020 has been a year like no other. Amidst the challenges, however, the homebuilding and remodeling industry has maintained a pace we didn’t anticipate. While our team of designers here at Residential Designed Solutions is busier than ever, we wonder how long this stride will last. We conducted research to understand the current state of the building industry and what the foreseeable future might hold.
Forecasting, Costs, and Good Design
2020 has been a year like no other. Amidst the challenges, however, the homebuilding and remodeling industry has maintained a pace we didn’t anticipate. While our team of designers here at Residential Designed Solutions is busier than ever, we wonder how long this stride will last. We conducted research to understand the current state of the building industry and what the foreseeable future might hold.
As a builder, you likely are feeling and seeing the same changes we are within the industry. We all want to know what’s around the corner, and what 2021 will bring. A few questions we are pondering: How can we keep costs down through good design, how are the costs of materials affecting projects, and how will building timelines continue to be impacted?
We hope you find the following details useful as you plan for the months ahead and answer client questions. Remember, we are in this together, and sharing the same message with our clients will help us successfully move through these unprecedented times.
Cost of Materials:
In July and August 2020, the cost of goods used in residential construction over the past four months continued to rise. Before that, prices had declined for the previous five months. The cost of lumber itself rose 10.5% in August, as demand continues to soar. Gypsum, ready-mix concrete, millwork, roofing and siding products, steel, and other construction materials are all on the rise, as well. Read the NAHB report here.
The disruption of the supply chain continues to hinder both supply and cost.
“According to NAHB’s standard estimates of lumber used to build the average home, the recent spike in softwood lumber prices has caused the price of an average new single-family home to increase by $14,116 since April 17. Similarly, the market value of the average new multifamily home has increased by $5,322 over the same period due to the surge in lumber prices.” NAHB Eye on Housing Report
The higher cost of materials is making it harder to sign the dotted line on projects. Some builders might be asking themselves if a projected return even makes a project worthwhile.
Building Timelines:
Supply chain disruptions impact building timelines, and there seem to be new disruptions daily. What we can’t purchase and receive in a timely fashion, slows down the whole process.
Home improvement spending could weaken for the rest of the year, due to projected unemployment and lack of stimulus funds.
A backlog of supply orders may finally release in the next few months, which will lessen some restraints on builds.
Homeowners are taking advantage of low mortgage rates and placing increased demands on home remodelers and builders, which can lengthen each project’s timeline.
Delays and shutdowns earlier this year have created a backlog of home construction project start dates.
The building and remodeling industry is facing a shortage of skilled workers like plumbers, electricians, carpenters and masons. This means fewer projects can be taken on at one time.
Heightened safety requirements, as well as social distancing requirements, have created project slowdowns and delays.
Good Design Can Keep Costs Down:
Eliminating custom features or reducing the square footage—even by 100 sq.ft.—can have a big impact on budget line items.
Keep first floor ceiling heights at 9’ to avoid all of the added costs (2x6s, 8’ doors, larger windows, etc.) that occur when they are 10’ and above.
Reduce costs by simplifying complicated or elaborate floor plans, intricate trims or moldings, or custom angles or corners.
Are there more cost-effective materials that can be used? As long as they do not affect quality or design aesthetics, it is something to consider.
Create a preliminary design and check with your suppliers to be sure you’re in line with the budget. If not, try the above tactics to get within budget while not sacrificing the design.
Forecast for 2021:
Reduced construction starts in 2020 likely will create a continued decline in construction jobs over the next few years. Some areas of the country will fare better than others.
Due to the current GDP, the employment outlook, and forecasted shrinking home sales, we expect to see a decline in remodeling projects as well as reduced demand for commercial or industrial buildings.
If the economy continues to weaken, renovations and repair spending will continue to decline. Read the report here.
On the flip side, we could see an increase in single-family home builds in smaller cities and rural areas as people move from high-density areas.
Builders and remodelers will serve themselves well to implement innovations to improve productivity and save money, such as technology platforms integrating all aspects of a construction project.
Improve productivity off-site and during pre-construction, when it makes sense.
Supply disruptions could still be a negative factor as we move into 2021.
As builders, remodelers, and designers, we need to roll with the changes and focus on what we can control. While some aspects of construction will continue to do well , our research indicates other areas may suffer for a while. As we continue to share best practices and communicate industry information, we are hopeful all of us can continue towards success.
If you are in search of a designer, please reach out to us. Our qualified and skilled designers here at Residential Designed Solutions are prepared to create the best design solutions for you and your clients.
More info can be found at the following links:
Meet Mahsa - Product Lead of Production Homes
We are proud
of our team members at Residential Designed Solutions! Mahsa is one
of our new hires and we’re thrilled to have her join the team. Her dream of becoming an architect began as a young girl and
her valuable experience working with architects, surveyors, and engineers gives her the expertise we were counting on for our clients.
Welcome to RDS, Mahsa!
Name: Mahsa Naseri
What is your position at RDS?
I am the Project Lead of Production Homes.
What is your specialty area?
My specialties include residential and interior design.
What are your current job responsibilities?
I am responsible for managing the production builder works.
When did you begin working at Residential Designed Solutions?
I started in August of 2020.
Where else have you worked?
I worked in two architecture offices in India as an intern architect for one year. While there, I worked on residential, commercial, and interior design projects. Then I worked at Pomeroy & Associates, a civil engineering and surveying company, for three years. I started as a drafter and was promoted to manager of the drafting department after a year with Pomeroy.
How long have you worked in the industry?
4 years
What colleges did you attend and what training have you received?
I have a Bachelors in Architecture from Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University in Hyderabad, India. I also have a degree in Interior Design from New York Institute of Art and Design.
Where do you live?
Pickerington, Ohio
What else do you want us to know about you?
Creativity is a staple in my life. I love to draw, take photos, and work on DIY projects around my house.
Builder Partner Highlight: Owens Construction
At RDS, we believe that designing a home is one of the most satisfying parts of our work. We love growing our relationships with builder partners and working together with them to bring their clients’ dreams to reality. We want you to get an idea of what Owens Construction Cruise Director, Pam Shisler, thinks of their experience working with us. Together we can design and build a new home or remodel an existing one for our clients.
How has your experience been with RDS – Residential Designed Solutions?
We have worked with RDS for many years and they are our design partner of choice for when we need outside design services. Jim provides a great insight into construction costs and is a great partner when we are working through value engineering projects. Residential Designed Solutions provides realistic quotes and is almost always right within budget. They are open to exploring alternative engineering solutions and ways to reduce costs for our customers.
Porch in progress
Before
Front elevation in progress
What services do you appreciate that RDS provides?
I appreciate that Jim always comes to our design meetings with the client to help explain the options/possibilities/restrictions that have informed the suggested design solutions. He is a great asset and an experienced professional.
“Jim provides a great insight into construction costs and is a great partner when we are working through value engineering projects. Residential Designed Solutions provides realistic quotes and is almost always right within budget. They are open to exploring alternative engineering solutions and ways to reduce costs for our customers.”
Before
After
Before
At Owens Construction, we typically create and complete two kinds of design/build projects. One is designed in house and is typically a simple single-story addition, front porch, or rear deck. For those projects, we need a partner who can translate our schematic drawings into CDs. The other type of design/build project incorporates a design professional such as RDS who can develop the initial schematics with our input, and then produce the final CDs. Most of our interior remodels are handled in-house.
After
After
After
How are challenges/issues/decisions/questions handled and communicated?
We are a small company and usually work through phone calls and emails to communicate our ideas/needs/conflicts etc. Issues/decisions/questions from our clients are usually run through us, or at least guided by us. We typically like to use RDS as a professional resource.
What is your overall experience working with RDS?
RDS is easy to work with and we appreciate them as a professional, creative partner.
Will you work with RDS again?
Yes, we are working on a project now!!
Thanks for the kind words, Pam! We are excitedly watching our latest project come together.
Are you a builder in need of a home designer to design your client’s remodel or new build? Let our designers help make your client’s dreams a reality.
1970's Contemporary Transformed
Small project turned giant undertaking: a remodel of our client's entire house! Stripped down to the footers, this cold, 1970's contemporary was built up into a warm and welcoming craftsman home.
Sometimes what a client thinks they want doesn’t become what they envisioned—it becomes so such more! Our clients were imagining an updated and opened up sunroom on the back of their home. But this cold, 1970’s contemporary home took on a life of its own and turned into a giant undertaking: a remodel of the ENTIRE house. What started as a conversation about the sunroom became a series of “What if?” questions and we were happy to oblige. The house was taken down to the footers and built back up into a warm and welcoming craftsman home.
BEFORE
BEFORE
Our clients wanted an entry porch with open beam work, similar to something we’d created for a neighboring home. But because of the u-shape of their home, there wasn’t a way to capture the look they were after without floating the porch between the guest wing and garage like the option that was ultimately chosen.
BEFORE
BEFORE
Some of the most used spaces in the home went from being separate rooms to utilizing open plan living, with each room delineated with furniture and decor, and the spaces all open to one another.
BEFORE
The footprint of the owner’s suite didn’t really change, but the details and finishes were updated and amped up to help create a peaceful, cozy feel.
BEFORE
We can describe each room and space in detail but would rather leave you to enjoy all the photos and experience the home for yourself.
If you’re considering building a new home or remodeling your current one, we’d love to be part of your team. We love to have these “what if?” conversations and create more than you had even contemplated. Please reach out today to get the process started.
Builder: Timbercrest Custom Homes
Interior Design: Cynthia Trucco Interiors
Photography: ARC Photography
Trends in Home Design - What's Happening in 2020
Times they are a changing as we adjust to a “new” normal that’s going to be with us for a while. Our homes are becoming more than just the place we live, eat, and sleep. Thanks to the global pandemic, they are now offices, schools, and places we vacation as well.
Times they are a changing as we adjust to a “new” normal that’s going to be with us for a while. Our homes are becoming more than just the place we live, eat, and sleep. Thanks to the global pandemic, they are now offices, schools, and places we vacation as well.
Many homeowners recognize the need for their home to be a multipurpose domain for the foreseeable future. At RDS, we are fielding calls asking for existing attics, basements, unused spaces, and more turned into offices, gyms, commands centers, and enlarged kitchens. And, we’re receiving inquiries to design homes with dedicated offices, learned, health and organization spaces.
This past June, Houzz.com reported a 58% annual increase alone in project leads. Is your home one in need of a change, or are you contemplating a new with added features for today’s shifting needs? These highly in-demand trends might be something you want to think about as you move forward in your own remodeling or building process.
So, What is Trending in Design Now?
Home Office/Classroom Command Center
Working from home is a new reality for many of us and will continue to be for a while. Added to this, many families will spend at least part of the year with their kids learning from home. One of the most requested rooms we’ve seen this year, especially in our more recent conversations, is the addition of a home office/kids’ classroom space.
What you might want:
Personalization for your family’s needs-dedicated office, crafts area, classroom setup, family command center, etc.
Built-in workstations, with separate desks or a long shelf workstation
More wall outlets including USB and charging outlets
Extra lighting for specific tasks and additional windows
A setup for Zoom or conference calls with a blank wall, green screen, or interesting backdrop
A room that is closed off from the rest of the house and offers privacy with a door, or an open area where you can see and hear what is going on, especially if you have younger or school-aged children.
Laundry Rooms/Mud Rooms/Home Gyms
More sought after than ever this year are laundry rooms, mud rooms, and home gyms. With many people opting out of heading to the local gym in person, we’re seeing the desire for dedicated home gym areas. And with everyone at home, there’s more laundry and more “stuff” collecting around the home. A mudroom creates a drop zone for all your family’s routinely used items, and a larger or more convenience laundry room may top the list of your wants.
A completed project we designed recently contains a laundry room, full bath, mudrooms, and kids’ command center. Though this project was planned before the pandemic, our clients are extremely grateful they have this new addition to take them into remote learning season.
Healthier and Energy-Efficient Features
Programmable thermostats, energy efficient appliances and lighting, better air ventilation and filtration, UV air-treatment systems, building materials with low VOCs (volatile organic compounds), bidets (due to the toilet paper shortage) as well as touchless toilets and faucets, and designated areas for package security to keep delivered items secure and away from potential thieves are all trending this year. Whether your personal need is for some or all of these options, they are well worth considering.
Patios and Outdoor Living Spaces
Vacations at home have become the norm this summer and with that comes an uptick in creating an outdoor oasis. Whether it entails a DIY weekend project or a remodel of the space, backyard retreats are in demand. Instead of vacations, people are using the money to update backyards. What do we see being the most requested and searched for needs and wants?
Pools
Backyard gardens – raised garden beds and areas to garden
Patios and decks
4-Season rooms
Fire pits and gathering areas
Outdoor kitchens or grill areas
Movie and TV spaces
Updated landscapes
Smaller Homes for Some, Larger Homes for Others
Some of our clients are requesting a smaller footprint with less square footage and fewer bedrooms and bathrooms. They prefer to have a smaller well-built home with quality products. Single level living homes are gaining popularity with not only older buyers, but younger buyers as well. Some are choosing to have everything on a first floor with an extra bedroom, loft area or bonus room only on a second floor.
On the flip side, we also are fielding requests for building or remodeling homes to allow for multi-generational living. Ground level suites with ADA-compliant features are allowing families to house family members they might not otherwise see frequently. Others are choosing to build larger homes, with space for everyone and designated spaces for all living scenarios.
So How Long is a Remodel or New Build Taking Now?
During these shifting times, it’s taking longer than normal for new homes and remodeling projects to be completed. Remaining compliant with all COVID protocols has slowed work down, as have the disruptions to the supply chain, among other factors. Builders, designers, and architects are working from home, remotely, in the office with social distancing, and at the construction sites with new rules and regulations. It’s a new way to do business and they are adjusting both to the changing times and homeowners’ needs.
From the time you sit down with us at RDS to discuss your wants and needs regarding a remodel, it can take anywhere from 2 to 6 months for the project to be completed. A new home is taking as long as a year to reach completion. It’s important to start construction conversations now so the planning process can get moving, especially if you’re planning to add a pool or outdoor living space.
Our job is to help you define what “at-home” means for your family now. Your home is your sanctuary and our design team is here to help you reimagine your existing home or design a brand-new new home from scratch. Call us to start the conversation today!
The Modern Farmhouse
Sleek, modern, chic, and contemporary — did you realize those words could be used to describe a farmhouse? Gone are the farmhouses filled with dark wood, loads of shiplap, and overly rustic design elements. Farmhouse style isn’t going anywhere, but it has evolved, and the design team here at RDS has embraced these changes when designing new homes for our clients.
Sleek, modern, chic, contemporary–these are not words you’d generally use to describe a farmhouse. Gone are the farmhouse designs filled with dark wood, loads of shiplap, and overly rustic design elements. Some may believe that the farmhouse as we know it is on the way out, but we beg to differ. One of the things that keeps the farmhouse at the forefront of the style game is it’s ability to change and evolve. The modern farmhouse style includes more modern design elements than ever and the design team here at RDS has wholeheartedly embraced these details when designing homes for our clients.
The Modernization of the Farmhouse
The modern farmhouse is a frequently sought-after style of home; our clients love the comfort and approachability, practicality and clean lines, combined with the low-key luxury these homes provide. Read on for more information about how the farmhouse style has evolved and see the details we are incorporating for our clients, showcased in the photos of the modern farmhouse we designed for Jimenez Haid Custom Builders.
Modern Meets Rustic
Rather than using only reclaimed wood or shiplap, glass, mixed metals, and other raw materials are adopted throughout a modern take on the classic farmhouse.
Barn doors are still utilized and very popular, (especially for the pantry, bathrooms and office) but are used to incorporate additional glass or metal features as well.
Exterior and Rooflines
Exteriors aren’t solely wood siding, but instead take advantage of stone, board-and-batten, stucco, brick, and other materials that lend a more modern look.
Expansive banks of windows, many times designed using black casement units, enhance the contemporary look and feel, as well as inviting lots natural light into the home and with it the feeling of being connected to the outdoors.
Pitched, cross-gabled, single-sloping, or multiple rooflines are all viable and interesting options for your modern farmhouse roof.
Interior and Exterior Color Palette
While white is the predominant color for the exterior with black accents, you’ll also find the palette reversed, providing an edgier take on the clean and contemporary look.
Modern farmhouse interiors often feature light, bright palettes with the combination neutrals, subtle blues, earth tones, and grays to make the home feel classic and comfortable.
Textures and Materials
The kitchen offers another space to showcase different materials: large farmhouse sinks, mixed or industrial metals for finishes and sleek marble or quartz countertops can all be found in a modern farmhouse.
Unique features are often incorporated in the form of lighting, texture on walls (shiplap, wood panels, wallpaper) and dramatic or subtle backsplashes provide interest and flair.
This outdoor living area is a perfect escape, featuring a large pool and hot tub, covered porch with heaters, outdoor kitchen, large windows and retractable doors, a firepit, and ample room to entertain.
Outdoor Living
The desire to bring the outdoor in and vice versa involves large windows, sliding or retractable doors, and large patios, all offering views from every space in the home.
A wide porch is welcoming and a classic feature of the classic farmhouse. And not one that has gone by the wayside with this modern evolution. This important feature is being used more than ever as an escape from work, life, or reality as a whole. Plus, it’s a great place to kickback and enjoy a refreshing drink.
Outdoor living is a HUGE part of just about any home we design today, but especially important for a modern farmhouse. Large patios are often a request, with the ability to incorporate different areas for recreation and ample space for entertaining.
The modern farmhouse is here to stay. We recently designed this gorgeous home for our clients in Tartan Fields. Built by Jimenez-Haid Custom Builders with Grand Traditions, this modern farmhouse evokes everything we have referenced in its design, as well as a few surprises.
We would love to talk with you about your dream home. Reach out today to start the conversation.
Designed by: Residential Designed Solutions
Built by: Jimenez Haid Custom Builders
Photos courtesy of: Jimenez Haid Custom Builders
Our Client's Remodel Experience
Jennifer and Dave loved their Worthington home but needed to make a few changes before it would be *perfect* for their family. After walking through their existing first floor and listening to their wants and needs, Jim was able to provide several options that would add functionality to their first floor, make the best use of the space, and come in at a budget they were comfortable with. Scroll down to see what before and after project photos and read what Jennifer and Dave had to say about their experience working with our team.
How was your experience working with Jim and RDS – Residential Designed Solutions?
We had a great experience. When we reached out to RDS we were already working with a remodeling company, however, after debating forever about what walls should come down, we realized we needed a professional home designer. Upon entering our house Jim knew exactly what we needed to do. He told us he had designed many remodels for homes from the same time period with similar layouts. He confidently provided advice on how we could open up
our space and take advantage of the view to our backyard. His expertise was just what we needed at that point in our project.
Why did you choose RDS to complete your home design plans?
We saw the RDS signs around Worthington and knew he was a busy local home designer, which was the role we were missing with our remodeling team at that time.
“Upon entering our house Jim knew exactly what we needed to do. He told us he had designed many remodels for homes from the same time period with similar layouts. He confidently provided advice on how we could open up our space and take advantage of the view to our backyard. His expertise was just what we needed at that point in our project. ”
If you could change one thing, what would you change?
We wouldn’t change anything. We love how our home turned out and it was a great process.
What advice would you offer to someone who is designing a home or redesigning a space in the home?
Make sure to enlist the services of an experienced professional architect or designer. Jim confidently told us of other similar projects, which is an important indication of experience. He provided a
series of sketches for options A – E and we had a second meeting to select elements from the different designs. It was a very efficient process.
What is your favorite aspect of your updated first floor?
Jim suggested putting in large windows and taking down the walls along the back of our home to maximize the natural light, and it looks amazing. We now have a perfect view out to our backyard from both our family room and kitchen.
Thank you for the kind words, Jennifer and Dave!
We strive to create designs that will add value to our clients lives, in addition to meeting their needs. If you’re interested in remodeling your home, please contact us to today to start the conversation.
Remodel by: Pat Scales Remodeling
Photos courtesy of: Pat Scales Remodeling
Bob Skinner, Sierra Custom Homes
The success of our client’s projects depends on the builder and contractor partners that we work closely with on a daily basis. They are building the visions that we’ve helped our clients create. And we think the relationship we’ve built with Sierra Custom Homes over the past few years is a great one.
2019 BIA Parade of Homes at Evans Farm open floor plan home, Delaware County
The success of our client’s projects depends on the builder and contractor partners that we work closely with on a daily basis. They are building the visions that we’ve helped our clients create. And we think the relationship we’ve built with Sierra Custom Homes over the past few years is a great one. We hope we can continue to partner on projects for years to come. President Bob Skinner reflected on his experience working with RDS.
Custom-built home exterior, Verona, Delaware County, Ohio
What projects have you worked on with RDS?
We have had RDS design several custom homes and a few remodeling projects. They are able to create designs for any project we need.
Traditional entry and stairwell, Delaware County, Ohio
Modern stairwell
Modern farmhouse exterior, Delaware, Ohio
How has your experience been working with Jim and RDS – Residential Designed Solutions?
Our experience with Jim and team has always been excellent. We have worked together several times and will continue to do so.
Family kitchen, Open concept, Delaware County, Ohio
Custom-built home exterior, Worthington, Ohio Historic District
2019 BIA Parade of Homes at Evans Farm, master bathroom, Delaware County
“Use RDS — you will be very pleased and both
you and your clients will get what has been
envisioned for a new home or remodel.”
Modern kitchen in custom-built home, Verona, Delaware County, Ohio
Modern home exterior
Modern lower-level bar
The plans that come out of RDS are easy to read and use. Jim and his team are always readily accessible when we have questions and our clients want to meet. Anything that comes up is always resolved very quickly. They are extremely responsive and always work with us in a professional, timely manner. We appreciate this!
What advice would you offer to a builder/remodeler/tradesperson who is starting to work with a designer?
Use RDS -- you will be very pleased and both you and your clients will get what has been envisioned for a new home or remodel.
Do you plan to work with RDS again?
Absolutely! We value our partnership.
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👆🏼👆🏽👆🏾 And that’s something we are very happy to hear! If you’re interested in working with RDS and Sierra Custom Homes, please give us a call today at 614.430.0027!
Client Testimonial: Worthington Cape Cod
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.
We were recommended to this client by her builder. This project became a total remodel of the home right down to the studs. We created a design to take this small one-story Cape Cod to a much more functional two-story home. This Worthington home will be similar to the remodeled homes on either side of our client, but with its own flair. Karen is excited because this “new” home will allow her to be close to her grand kids and enjoy the walk-ability of the community. As Karen says, “I had planned to just add an addition to the back, but this is the little project that grew.”
Before
Conceptual Design
How has your experience been with RDS – Residential Designed Solutions?
Great! This is going to be my first and only experience doing something like this. I lived in my previous home for 41 years and hadn’t planned on a project quite like this when I decided to move. Residential Designed Solutions came to me very highly recommended by my contractor, Shaffer Brothers Builders and Jim Wright, owner of RDS, is personally handling my project. After learning about RDS, I visited The Parade of Homes and was impressed with the home that their firm had designed. My builder has worked with Jim before so I knew I was in good hands.
“Jim is tremendous! He is professional, straightforward, unflappable, and has been responsive to my requests, changes, and questions. Jim even came to my current home to get a feel for how I live and use space. He then was able to take that into consideration as he designed my new home. He is always listening to what I have to say, and my thoughts and wishes have been reflected in each iteration of the design. ”
I was impressed that Jim even went with me to my new neighbors’ homes on either side of me to go through their remodeled homes so I could point out what I liked about their homes and what could be created in my home, which I really appreciated. He also very professionally represented me at the Architectural Review Board (ARB) in order to gain approval for the remodel.
What space(s) did you have redesigned?
This has ended up being a total redo of a Cape Cod home by raising the roof to create adequate living space on the second floor and putting on a large addition with vaulted ceilings on the back. Jim designed an open concept kitchen and family room, with a lovely screened in porch on the back.
What will be the favorite aspect of your new home design?
I know the open concept kitchen and family room with the vaulted ceiling will be my favorite part of the home, along with the screened porch. I will have a great deal of glass and light with a 9-foot slider, a pair of French doors, and a glass entry in these rooms. I love the fact that I’ll have nice views and won’t feel closed in.
If you could change one thing, what would you change?
I would change the cost, but that’s not a fair answer!
We’re still early in the building process, to the point we have no shingles or siding-it’s just framed. It’s still pretty early on, so I’ve been able to change some design features that weren’t going to work or that I decided I wanted to change.
I wouldn’t change anything about the final design or working with Jim Wright. I would work with him again.
In Progress
What has your overall experience been so far?
Very positive. I met another team member, Dominic, when he represented me at the last ARB meeting. Everyone in the firm has been great!
What advice would you offer to someone who is designing a home?
Communicate with pictures of the design elements you’re going for. This helps the designer and builder understand that when I say “these words” this is what I’m seeing and meaning. It is sometimes hard for a non-builder to articulate a request. I wish I was more in tune with the builder lingo because there are some concepts and items I thought I was asking for but didn’t know how to say them. Whenever I haven’t known, I have asked for explanations.
Did you reach out to any other designers? If so, what made you choose RDS?
I did not. I knew the contractors, Shaffer Brothers Builders, because they have done some remodeling work for me in my current home and they have done work for at least six of my friends. I knew that I was going to work with them, and they connected me with Residential Designed Solutions.
Would you do it again?
No, but when I’m living in it, I expect that my answer will change. If I knew then what I know now, I might have thought twice about a project this large. But I love the location, the walk-ability of the area, the closeness to my family, and am really excited for this home! It’s a bigger project than I anticipated, but it is of my own doing.
I would definitely use RDS and the Shaffer Brothers Builders again.
Thanks for the kind words, Karen! We are excitedly watching the finished house come together.
Are you considering a remodel or new build? Let our designers help make your dreams a reality. We’d be honored to work with you!
