Author Archives: Tien Huynh

When should I hire an architect? Architects are necessary whenever a home remodeling calls for making an addition, altering room sizes and shapes, or making major changes to the plumbing, electrical or heating systems. Architects will explore a homeowner’s lifestyle … Continue reading →

How do you make your design dream a reality? Here’s some project management know-how to help you work with your designer Browsing photos and ideas  can be a fun part of creating your dream room. But making your designs a … Continue reading →

  What better way to demonstrate America’s diverse architectural styles than through the country’s most infamous family — The Simpsons? The Simpson family residence is instantly familiar to all, yet their dwelling could have been completely different if they’d embraced … Continue reading →

When planning a home remodeling or new construction project, one of the first things homeowners usually want to know is how much the work will cost. Part of asking about cost is not just defining what the work will be … Continue reading →

Most people think payment to a general contractor for a remodeling project is broken down into four main categories: materials, installation labor, subcontractors and markup. But there’s a fifth category that may not immediately come to mind: general conditions. General … Continue reading →

The inspection process is not for the faint of heart. No matter how good your contractor is, or how well you manage your own DIY project, your inspector is likely to insist on corrections. That’s their job, and frankly, there … Continue reading →

The budget conversation — it’s sometimes awkward, often slightly uncomfortable and usually comes with a bit of anxiety. Because of the nature of construction, things often cost more than what homeowners think. There are endless debates on why that is, … Continue reading →

Whether you work with a general contractor or act as one on your own project, getting a glimpse into the mind of a contractor can give you a new perspective into remodeling projects around your home. I’ve learned a lot … Continue reading →

There’s no crystal ball that can tell you what might go wrong on your home remodeling project, but you don’t need to be able to see into the future to be prepared for an unwelcome surprise or two along the … Continue reading →

When you buy a jug of milk or a loaf of bread, the price is clearly marked. Even products that have negotiable prices, like cars and properties, can at least be seen, touched and inspected before you buy them. But when … Continue reading →

A contractor without a contract is just a worker and his or her word. Even the most honest person would be hard-pressed to keep track of all the conversations that go into planning for the average construction project. That’s where … Continue reading →

Building your dream home is one of the most exciting things you’ll ever do, but all that excitement comes with a lot of responsibility. Hiring the best general contractor for you and your project is an extremely important decision. That choice will … Continue reading →

All of the selections are made, the contract is signed, and you’re ready to start your construction project. Not so fast! Before work begins, make sure you and your contractor are on the same page about how things will go. This … Continue reading →

You have the vision. You know what you want. But getting that sparkling new kitchen or expansive master closet isn’t as easy as making a wish and snapping your fingers. From the beginning, your project is set up for numerous … Continue reading →

If only the three little pigs had gotten a permit. How different their story would be. If each piggy’s home had been constructed to code, it could have withstood the onslaught of an earthquake, a blizzard, a fire or a … Continue reading →

As a designer who typically charges an hourly rate for design services, I tell my clients to do their homework before meeting with me. I give them a checklist of what they should consider before I arrive, asking them to … Continue reading →