For such a small area, powder rooms are full of endless possibilities. Featuring perhaps just a sink and toilet and seen by only a few, powder rooms are the perfect space to be a bit creative. With so many modern trends today, Varian Construction is here to help with six major wow factors to turn your powder room into a power room.
Floating Vanity
When designing a powder room, a floating vanity can provide a unique focal point while highly functional. A floating vanity is a bathroom cabinet that is anchored to the wall. It does not extend to the floor as standard vanities do, which creates the illusion it is floating in the space.
They have become increasingly popular in recent years; aside from your bathroom’s aesthetics, they make any bathroom appear more spacious and add a modern minimalist look.
Custom Wallpaper
A statement or custom wallpaper is trending for many powder rooms. It’s often easier to execute a drastic design in a small space than in a larger room; if you change your mind, it takes less work to reverse.
Depending on your aesthetic, you can choose a more subtle wallpaper or something that stands out. Either way, both options are sure to impress.
Bold Color
Another way to enhance a powder room is to add an accent wall that draws the eye to the color and creates a unique feel and charm. Accent walls are thriving in the building and decorating industry.
These easy and stylish color accents will always be popular because of their flexibility.
There are unlimited paint and materials options for any accent wall. Even the location of an accent wall is purely personal.
Unexpected Tile
While humidity from showers and bathtubs drives some design decisions in full bathrooms, powder rooms typically contend with far less moisture.
Choosing a tile that looks exactly like wood will bring a realistic look to your powder room that you never expected. The options are endless for tile; your powder room will be exquisite with a myriad of colors and textures.
Custom Wainscoting
Wainscoting is a term used to describe any paneling or wall covering installed over the lower third of an interior wall. Wainscoting can be installed in several styles, each with a unique finished look. Today, some popular styles include raised panel, flat panel, beadboard, overlay, and board and batten.
Wainscoting paneling is often painted white, but this is not the only way to use it. It looks good painted in various colors or even unpainted, allowing the natural wood tones to enhance the space. And wainscoting can be oriented in any direction you choose horizontal, vertical, cut short or long, framed with a railing or without.
Backlit Vanity Mirrors
A bathroom needs suitable lighting to be functional, and adequate lighting for a bathroom can be tricky.Small rooms and tight spaces make placing sconces, ceiling lights, and even light switches challenging.
A backlit mirror consists of LED lights behind the mirror, outlining its perimeter – giving off a subtle but sufficient light with a relaxing glow.
Installing a backlit bathroom mirror will give any powder room the beautiful and functional lighting it requires without needing individual light fixtures. The warm luminosity will transform your bathroom into an inviting and soothing space while giving you the functionality of a well-lit mirror.
Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction
If you’re looking for a contractor to enhance your powder room or remodel your home, trust Varian Construction.
Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has renovated homes, condominiums, and commercial buildings for more than 30 years. In those three-plus decades, Varian has been awarded 15 Florida Home Builders Association awards for excellence in their craft.
Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your home will be built with both quality and care.
Fully licensed to work in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your upgrades within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands. If you want to hire Varian Construction for your home renovation, call today at 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.
There’s no need to forgo elegance when renovating a kitchen for your condo. Many options will stand the test of time, from an open-concept layout to refinishing cabinets. Here are a few ideas from Varian Construction to help create a modern condo kitchen that will impress your guests and make every meal preparation more enjoyable.
Open-Concept Layout
Open condo kitchens are prevalent in today’s condominium plans. Creating an open kitchen will make your entire space look more extensive, spacious and brighter. Islands and peninsulas add storage, workspace and functionality. Chairs or stools can be added to turn your island or peninsula into a multifunctional working and dining area.
The island in your kitchen can be modern or rustic, depending on your preference. If unsure about the size, one of the best tips for a condo kitchen remodeling is to work closely with a contractor like Varian Construction.
A few kitchen layouts include:
Gallery
L-Shaped
U-Shaped
Statement Lighting
Statement lighting comes in many shapes and styles. Fluorescent light has long been a flaw in kitchen design: it can give a harsh, blue tint to the the space. One easy way to instantly make your condo kitchen feel welcoming is to rely instead on hanging pendant lamps with a warmer tone, recessed canned lights, or vintage fixtures for an elegant touch.
Still, one thing is for sure – your guests will take notice! Whether your space features an exquisite chandelier or a set of eye-catching pendant lights, fabulous lighting can transform a room.
Resurface/Replacing Kitchen Cabinets
Cabinets experience a lot of wear and tear. Often, they’re the most worn and damaged parts of an older kitchen, and that tattered look can be a subtle detriment to the sophistication of the entire room. A new coat of paint, perhaps in a pastel shade, will be transformative. And if the budget allows, replacing them entirely with modern, flat cabinets can make a world of difference.
If you don’t have a floor-to-ceiling cabinet or pantry, this is the time to consider doing so. Be sure to use lighter colors on the walls and cabinets. Lighter colors tend to open up the feel of a space.
While replacing cabinets, you can also update or add a backsplash to enhance the modern feel of any new kitchen layout.
Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction
If you’re looking to update your condo kitchen or your entire home, trust Varian Construction.
Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has renovated homes, condominiums, and commercial buildings for more than 30 years. In those three-plus decades, Varian has been awarded 15 Florida Home Builders Association awards for excellence in their craft.
Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your home will be built with both quality and care.
Fully licensed to work in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your upgrades within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands.
If you want to hire Varian Construction for your condo renovation, call today at 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.
When starting a remodeling project, contractors and homeowners must determine if a building permit is needed for each step. According to the state of Florida, the law requires that contractors and owners attain a building permit for any structure that is being constructed or altered. Thus, a permit is mandatory if the property owner plans to construct, enlarge, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy or structure.
Safety, standards, and building codes are why homeowners must obtain permits for building and remodeling in Florida.
Assembling Plans for a Building Permit
When applying for a building permit in Naples, it is always helpful to have your plans properly assembled before submitting for the permit. Almost all local municipalities in Southwest Florida are electronic submittals only. The City of Bonita Springs is the only “paper” submittal still.
Instructions on how your plans should be assembled are as follows:
The City of Naples
Always have two sets of plans. Make sure you have both sets.
Documents that require a professional seal and signature must be digitally signed in accordance with professional requirements. Click Here for City of Naples Digital Signature Requirement
Each required document must be submitted as a single file.
Applications are still required to be filled out and submitted. Blank application forms for submittal can be found on the City of Naples website. (please click the hyperlinks below)
Approved documents will still be stamped by the City of Naples. The stamp will be applied to the lower right corner of documents. Keeping this area free for them to stamp is appreciated.
Collier County
Documents that require a professional seal and signature must be digitally signed in accordance with professional requirements. The signer must provide a digital certificate to GMD for use in validating documents submitted electronically.
Each required document must be submitted as a single file. For example, a 15-page construction plan would be saved as one ConstructionPlan.pdf file. It would then be digitally signed once for the complete document, not signed on each page. Fifteen pages saved and submitted as individual pdf’s would be rejected.
Even though users will enter some of the information found on our applications as part of the E-Permitting process, application forms still need to be filled out and submitted. We know it seems repetitive, but to add input fields for all the information we collect on all our application types would make the Portal screens very difficult to navigate
Approved documents will still be stamped by GMD. The stamp will be applied to the upper right corner of documents. Keeping this area free for them to stamp is appreciated.
Safety, Standards & Insurance
Florida and all U.S. states operate under a system of informing counties and cities about approaching construction projects. Each state develops a set of rules governing when a permit is necessary, depending on the size and degree of the development. The permit filed notifies the local or state government and acts as a monitoring tool.
This tool is put into place to ensure standards and regulations are being followed for the safety of citizens. According to Sweeney Law, local and state agencies use this opportunity to investigate the construction to protect people from repairs, additions, or new construction violating building codes. They could present as harmful to life and property. A permit can be obtained for residential or commercial construction projects. In Florida, failure to obtain a building permit where one is required is a violation of the law which could result in a penalty.
To ensure a construction site, you will also need permits to prove and provide coverage to all who visit the site or development daily. A valid permit keeps the insurance valid and prevents issues if an accident were to result from the development.
Building Codes
According to the City of Naples, applications for building permits are required to be submitted for installations regulated by Section 105.1 of the Florida Building Code if any owner or authorized agent intends to:
Construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure
Erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system
Failure to obtain a permit before commencing any project can result in a penalty from your state or county. A penalty delays the construction further than waiting to obtain the proper documentation.
According to Collier County, if you intend to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system regulated by the Florida Building Code, or cause any such work to be done, you are required to obtain a permit regardless of the cost.
Effective April 19, 2021, you need to be a registered Portal user to upload all forms to satisfy pending conditions through the public portal.
House Bill 1059 goes into effect on Oct.1, 2021, requiring both the applicant and enforcement agency to take specific action within specified time periods related to Single-Family Residential Dwelling and Commercial building permits.
Permit Exemptions
Although a building permit is required for most construction-related work, various real property improvements may not require a building permit. The work exempted must still be constructed in accordance with minimum code standards. Permit exemptions vary between cities, counties, residential, and single-family homes; make sure to double if unsure. Items that do not require a permit:
City of Naples Exemptions
Air conditioning repair
Air conditioning window unit replacement with existing electrical
Carpet installation
Ceiling fan replacement using existing outlet box and wiring
Door replacement for any interior or residential door within the individual unit
Gutters and leaders
Heating unit repair
Installation of floor/wall ceramic tile
Painting/wallpaper
Plumbing fixture replacement
Repair of existing single-family home roof less than two squares (200 square ft)
Residential appliance replacement
Residential drywall repairs that are not fire-related and are for small areas that do not exceed two sheets of drywall
Residential playground equipment
Single-family home and condominium replacement of existing countertops and sinks that are going back in the exact location (bathroom vanity, kitchen cabinetry replacement in single-family and condominiums does require a permit)
Window repair
Installation of drywall in a detached garage without habitable space.
Collier County Exemptions
The following permit exemptions have been established for Collier County based on Section 105. 2. 2 of the Florida Building Code and Section 553. 73( 4)( a), Florida Statutes. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code.
Keep in mind, both Collier and the City of Naples are clear about single-family home exemptions but consider a condo a multi-family structure which more times than not requires a permit for even kitchen remodels.
Permits shall not be required for the following:
Mechanical:
9. Dustless ventilation isolated systems, that do not affect any fire penetrations or rated assemblies.
Plumbing:
3. Plumbing fixture repair or replacement, that does not affect any fire penetrations or rated assemblies.
Electrical:
Ceiling fixture replacement using existing outlet box and wiring, that does not affect any fire penetrations or rated assemblies.
Building:
Flooring installation.
Painting/ wallpaper.
Finish trim work.
Interior door replacement not affecting existing framed opening.
Drywall repair/ replacement that are not fire-related and are small areas that do not exceed two sheets of drywall ( 64 sq. ft.).
If you are looking for a contractor to remodel your home and help file the correct permits, trust Varian Construction.
Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has renovated homes, condominiums, and commercial buildings for more than 30 years. In those three-plus decades, Varian has been awarded 15 Florida Home Builders Association awards for excellence in their craft.
Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your home will be built with both quality and care.
Fully licensed to work in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your upgrades within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands. If you are interested in hiring Varian Construction for your home renovation, call today at 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.
For those who enjoy dining in the open air or cozying up to a warm fire on a cool night – a rising trend in custom home design employs architectural elements that allow indoor living to expand effortlessly into outdoor spaces. Outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and a custom pool are just a few options for building a beautiful, functional, and comfortable outdoor escape.
A haven designed to fit any lifestyle, outdoor space increases a home’s living area and brings the comforts of the indoors outside. Here are 4 outdoor living space ideas for your Florida home.
1. Outdoor Fireplaces and Firepits
One way to fire up your backyard is to install a custom fireplace or firepit. Whether you choose charcoal, wood or propane, creating a central area for guests to gather allows for the coziest social gatherings. You can create a firepit for your family to circle around and bond over or a stunning fireplace replete a chimney for maximum visual appeal. A fireplace or firepit is a great practical option for all guests and family.
2. Outdoor Dining Spaces
Close to the beach? Have wonderful views? Eating outdoors feels a little more relaxing than sitting inside at a dining table. Installing a dining or lounge area outside can bring a sense of tranquility to dinners with family and friends. Take in the views sitting at a round or rectangular table with a gorgeous centerpiece to kick off a fantastic celebration.
Homeowners can also incorporate a fire feature in the center of a table to bring warmth to their dining and outdoor experience.
3. Custom Pools
Enjoy your backyard all year round with a fantastic custom pool that screams relaxation. Whether you’re looking to install a grandiose pool or even a small plunge pool, there are numerous designs from which to choose. From lap pools to infinity edge pools, the opportunities for a fun backyard are endless. Free-form pools also offer a variety of features like waterfalls, rain curtains, and even a shallow end for children.
Homeowners can also include a swim-up bar in their pool, for the ultimate in Florida entertainment.
4. Outdoor Kitchen or Bar
More than a basic grill, an outdoor kitchen can set the tone for any outdoor gathering or party. Homeowners can choose from various options in any remodel or new build for any backyard, including, a cooktop, refrigerator, sink, ice maker, wet bar, storage for dishes, and even a toasty pizza oven.
Consider these customized options—all with the purpose of enhancing your Florida lifestyle:
If you are looking for a contractor to help you remodel or add any outdoor spaces, trust Varian Construction.
Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has renovated homes, condominiums, and commercial buildings for more than 30 years. In those three-plus decades, Varian has been awarded 15 Florida Home Builders Association awards for excellence in their craft.
Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your home will be built with both quality and care.
Fully licensed to work in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your upgrades within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands. If you are interested in hiring Varian Construction for your home, call today at 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com
When designing a new kitchen for your home, the countertop will likely be the focal point of your kitchen. With 90% of cooking and entertaining taking place in the kitchen, consider these five modern countertops ideas for 2023.
#1 | Make an Integrated Sink
If you’re looking to create a seamless appearance in your kitchen, integrating your kitchen sink will give you a sleek look throughout. This will create a simple modern twist with any countertop and eliminate any overlap that a traditional drop-in sink would. Your contractor can adjust the size to your specifications without any worry.
#2 | Waterfall Edge
Waterfall edges are crafted by extending the kitchen countertop at a 90-degree angle and flowing to the floor, giving the impression of a seamless continuation of the countertop surface. This countertop will likely receive a tremendous amount of attention from all who enter your home or commercial building.
Waterfall edge countertops are a modern trend that adds beauty, elegance and uniqueness to any design. They also add a luxurious touch to your kitchen countertop design and produce an artistic focal point, making all who walk into the kitchen say “wow”.
#3 | Colored Countertops
As we’ve seen on runways all over the world this year, everyone seems to be going green, and we don’t mean from an electrical standpoint. From kelly green and bold, electric hues to deeper emerald greens, and chartreuses, there are plenty of shades to consider. Green is an energizing, invigorating color that can refresh and renew your kitchen, but it can also be used in a variety of settings, both subtle and striking.
Many of us tend to think of green or blue as modern hues, but with the right shade, it can also create a vintage or rustic look. Try experimenting with different tints of color throughout your space to see what works best with your décor and style. You might just fall in love with a color you never expected in your home!
#4 | Matching Backsplash
Your new kitchen design or renovation is coming together, except something is missing – your backsplash! One of the major questions homeowners or commercial building owners have when choosing a backsplash is whether it must match their countertops.
Often owners prefer to match, sticking to a color palette that delivers a peaceful, uniform look. This is accomplished if you select simple, neutral colors for both your countertops and backsplash. This can be seen these days in the modern trend of all-white kitchens, which showcases a white countertop, backsplash, and cabinets.
#5 | Unique Finishes & Material
When selecting a new countertop for your kitchen, you may have a clear idea as to how you’d like it to look – shiny and smooth or soft on the eyes and to the touch.
To pick the countertop that will best suit your everyday needs and aesthetic preferences, review an extensive variety of possibilities, and choose the right material and surface finish for your dream countertop. A few modern finishes include:
Polished
Honed
Leathered
Flamed
Caressed
Distinctive finishes result in different textures and appearances, which can add an unique appearance to the countertop. Countertops can highlight the shades and patterns of the stone, decrease the visibility of stains, and diminish the porosity of the slab. Each type of finish has its own specifics. Homeowners should be mindful of the benefits and suitable uses of all finishes to make a knowledgeable decision about their countertops.
Below are a few variations of material and finishes that will get you inspired to pick the next modern countertop of your dreams!
#1 | Butcher-Block
#2 | Quartz/Quartzite
#3 | Soapstone
#4 | Concrete
#5 | Granite
Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction
If you are looking for a contractor to help you pick and install the countertops of your dreams, trust Varian Construction.
Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has renovated homes, condominiums, and commercial buildings for more than 30 years. In those three-plus decades, Varian has been awarded 15 Florida Home Builders Association awards for excellence in their craft.
Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your home will be built with both quality and care.
Fully licensed to work in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your upgrades within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands. If you are interested in hiring Varian Construction for your home renovation, call today at 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com
Families come in all shapes and sizes, and so do homes! Buying or building a new home is an exciting time for families, but the process can also be daunting. Creating a picture-perfect home for your family starts with selecting the right floor plan. With these simple pro tips, you’ll design the home of your dreams complete with the style and practicality you crave.
Assess Your Lifestyle
The first step to designing a floorplant that works for your family is to analyze which features in your home are most important. This will help with a more targeted budget, and it’ll be easier to set goals for the layout of your home.
If you’re planning on expanding your family, include extra bedrooms in your floorplan for ample space for children. You may want to consider having a nursery closer to the master bedroom for easy and convenient access.
Another must-have for parents is a laundry room near the master bedroom or possibly on the second floor, if you have one.
Consider Your Surroundings & Child Safety
When designing your dream floorplan, you must consider your surroundings and your child’s safety. Open floorplans create a comfortable space for children who are growing up, and because it’s an open space, you’ll be able to see them from nearly every room.
Consider the footprint of your new home to ensure ample backyard space. If your property isn’t big enough for a single-story floorplan with all your needs on one floor, then building a second floor may be your answer.
Tour Other Homes & New Construction
When it comes to your dream floorplan, there is no better way to feel the space than to walk into a model home that closely mimics the home you hope to build.
A well-designed floorplan can help you determine your property’s future value and which rooms, and features will bring you the most return on investment (ROI). You may also want to talk to an experienced designer or contractor to help make the tough decisions.
Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction
If you are looking for a contractor to help you design the floorplan and to build your home, trust Varian Construction.
Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has renovated homes, condominiums, and commercial buildings for more than 30 years. In those three-plus decades, Varian has been awarded 15 Florida Home Builders Association awards for excellence in their craft.
Furthermore, owner Bill Varian has been accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your home will be built with both quality and care.
Fully licensed to work in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your upgrades within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is ingood hands.
If you are interested in hiring Varian Construction for your home renovation, contact us today at
Are you looking to increase the space in your home? Home additions can range from small to large, from a minor kitchen remodel to adding an wing to your home. Varian Construction has completed countless home renovation projects, which will be of help when designing your new addition.
You’ve browsed showrooms, flipped through home magazines, studied friends’ houses—or viewed digital photo albums to find design inspirations. With a scrapbook filled with clippings, brochures, and back-of-an-envelope sketches, you have a clear goal in mind but you’re not quite ready to start your renovation without a bit of advice from the experts. Below are a few tips and tricks for home additions inspired by the experienced builders at Varian Construction.
#1 – Choose your Addition Style
Whether you’re looking to renovate an old space and make it new or even add a pop-out, consider the layout of your home first. You’ll want to pay attention to the roofline and how it connects to your house. Understanding the style of your house, from the interior and exterior finish materials to the windows and utilities, will make for a smooth project.
All of which can be a tall order for a typical homeowner. With the help of a contractor —like Varian Construction—home additions will go as planned and on budget, creating the best overall outcome.
#2 – Explore Your Addition Options & Inspirations
With so many options to choose from, planning an addition can be overwhelming. From bump-outs to micro-additions, there are many ways to enhance your home while optimizing your floor plan and style.
Here are a few small, large, and unexpected home additions to inspire your renovation plans.
Master Suite Addition
Home Office
Home Gym
A Larger Kitchen
Outdoor Patio/ Sunroom
Garage Addition
Guest Suite
Guest Bathroom
#3 – Plan Your Build & Choose Your Materials
Lastly, you will want to invest in quality materials. The materials you pick will define the add-on’s overall durability, endurance, and character. Determining the quality of your materials can also increase the value of your home should you ever decide to sell.
Consider various factors such as climate, cost, durability, sustainability, maintenance, and appeal when planning your addition. Each will help determine what materials work best with your plan and what will pair well with the rest of your home.
Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction
If you are looking for a contractor to help you add a large or small addition to your home, trust Varian Construction.
Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has been renovating homes, condominiums, and commercial buildings for over 30 years. In those three decades, Varian has been awarded 15 Florida Home Builders Association awards for its excellent and stunning work.
Furthermore, owner Bill Varian has been accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your home will be built with both quality and care.
Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your upgrades within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands.
If you are interested in hiring Varian Construction for your home renovation, contact us today at 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com
When expecting, one of the first things any parent should consider is to make your home safe. Children are natural-born explorers and perceive the world differently than adults do. But their curiosity can lead to safety risks. Although we may not notice, there are plenty of items in our homes that pose a risk to children like paint, stairs and pools. Learn how to reduce the risks for your baby in your Florida home with just a few tips and tricks.
Preparing Your Florida Home
How can you distinguish harmful items that are within a child’s reach? Get low, crawl on all fours, and envision yourself from their point of view! This may seem silly, but it allows you to see things from a baby’s perspective and what a baby could reach. Items such as glass, breakables, and heavy or sharp objects, that they could easily pull down on top of them must be put out of a baby’s reach for their safety.
Make sure tall furniture such as bookcases and chests of drawers are securely anchored to the wall. Once babies become mobile, their curiosity can lead them to climb, and you want to protect them from injury by making sure furniture cannot tip over. And don’t forget to install gates and railings on stairs as toddlers love to climb.
Lastly, electrical outlets throughout your home should have safety covers installed when not in use.
Paint & Furniture Risks
If your home was built before 1978, get your home tested for lead and if found there is a protocol to mitigate it
Stick with cribs, toys, highchairs, chests and the like made after 1978
Secure furniture, including bookshelves, to the wall, so they do not fall over
Place protective padding on tables and other sharp edges around your home
Keep cribs and beds away from windows
Mount flatscreen TVs to the wall. Keep older and heavier TVs on sturdy furniture
Install stops in removable drawers so that the drawers won’t fall out
Attach safety locks or latches on drawers and cabinets, specifically those containing chemicals, sharp items and choking hazards
Stairs & Falling Risks
Ensure that stairways have ample lighting
Install railings or handrails on each side of the stairs for balance
Install gates at the top and bottom of interior staircases. Since hardware-mounted gates can’t be knocked down, these are best recommended for children
Pools Risks
Install barriers around your pool to avoid any risks or accidents. Specialists advise a fence at a minimum of 4 feet high around the pool. The blockade around the pool should include a self-closing, self-latching gate or door. If your house functions as part of the barrier, a brilliant idea would be to install alarms on doors and windows with direct pool access.
Electrical & Heating and Cooling Elements Risk
Place safety caps on electrical outlets
Do not overload sockets, and avoid appliances piggybacking onto extension cords
Discuss with children the necessity of avoiding electricals near water due to the risk of electrocution
Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction
If you are looking for a contractor for your major home renovation and with an eye toward baby-proofing your home, trust Varian Construction.
Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has been renovating homes, condominiums, and commercial projects for over 30 years. In those three decades, Varian has been awarded 15 Florida Home Builders Association awards for excellent and stunning work.
Furthermore, owner Bill Varian has been accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP) ensuring that your home will be built with quality and care for years to come.
Fully licensed to work in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your upgrades within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your home is in good hands. For those with design plans or space renovations, Varian Construction uses its connections and resources to meet the owner’s expectations and exceed them. If you are interested in hiring Varian Construction for your home renovation, contact us today at 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com
You love your house, but it’s getting a bit small, or perhaps there’s another baby on the way and you’re unsure whether there’s enough space. Maybe your kitchen or bathroom is in urgent need of an upgrade. Whatever your renovation needs, here are six benefits of remodeling your home to help you determine if it’s the right move for you
To Improve your Home’s Value
Adding extra rooms can undoubtedly add value to your home. If you have an older home, renovating the kitchen and bathrooms can make a big difference to the house’s value when it comes time to sell and can make an immediate difference to your family’s quality of life. Refurbishing bedrooms, living areas, hallways in homes and adding a few modern touches inside and out can add curb appeal and attract extra buyers when it’s time to sell.
To Upgrade the Home’s Function
Insteadof taking the time to buy another home, remodeling your existing home to fit the functional needs of your family will help improve your home in many ways. As a family grows, so too can your house. For example, if you entertain often, a contractor could suggest an open floor plan or a larger kitchen. If you have adolescent children, remodeling a bathroom might make it more kid-friendly and therefore be a good idea.
To Increase Comfort or Enjoyment of the Home
A home remodeling company can take ideas and plans and turn them into reality. A house renovation can include your desire for a gourmet, chef-style kitchen, spa-like bathroom, or other significant upgrades. Simple spaces in your home can become places for memories and enjoyment. Remodeling an older home allows you to make them your own while preserving the character and allure that made you fall for your home in the first place.
To Fix a Safety Issue
When it comes to safety in your home, especially if you have children, renovations to remove hazardous materials or reconfigure unsafe structures are essential. Installing a new roof, plumbing, or light fixtures can prevent serious issues in a home.
To Increase the Efficiency of the Home
The cost of home remodels is well worth it when it saves you money in energy costs. Remodeling your home with modern fixtures can lead to considerable savings and thereby offset overall costs. Be sure to replace or repair your roof before a minor trickle becomes a major problem.
To Update the Home’s Style
What worked then might not work now, so turning an older home into a modern one brings life back into your beloved home. Updating the style of your home can give new meaning to thoughts of entertainment. A remodeling company can replace obsolete appliances and fixtures with new, energy-efficient models and replace that questionable ’60s shag carpet with new hardwood floors! Updating your home’s style can tie into new trends that appeal to you personally or as a way to prepare a house for sale. The best bet is to use timeless styles that convey true sophistication.
Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction
If you are looking for a contractor for your home renovation, trust Varian Construction.
Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has been renovating homes, condominiums, and commercial projects for over 30 years. In those three decades, Varian has been awarded 15 Florida Home Builders Association awards for excellent and stunning work.
Furthermore, owner Bill Varian has been accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your home will be built with quality and care, true craftsmanship that’ll stand the test of time for years to come.
Fully licensed to work in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your upgrades within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your home is in good hands. For those with design plans or space renovations, Varian Construction uses its connections and resources to not only meet the owner’s expectations but to exceed them. If you are interested in hiring Varian Construction for your home renovation, contact us today at 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com
A major home renovation can be a massive undertaking but has plenty of benefits. For starters, a whole house renovation will allow you to create a new space in the same location, so you won’t have to leave the place you love. A remodel may also benefit your home if you are looking to sell, as it can make the newly updated home stand out from other listings in the area.
If you are thinking about undertaking a whole home remodel, here are five things to consider before starting a major home renovation.
Budget
Perhaps the most important aspect to consider before starting a major home renovation is the budget. This will allow you to plan how big the project will be and what your new space can include.
If you are in the budgeting stage of a major home renovation, it is important to set a maximum budget. Since the remodel will encompass every room in the home, make sure to set aside money for each room as some spaces will require more attention. These rooms may include the kitchen, owner’s suite and master bathroom. Other major expenses may include the flooring, roofing or furniture for the home.
Many people will consider a major home renovation as they are looking to increase the resale value of their property. In this case, there are certain rooms that will be “top sellers” for buyers such as newly finished kitchens, spacious bathrooms, stunning outdoor living areas, and much more. In this case, some renovations may be worth spending the money on as they could provide a positive return on investment, all while refreshing your space.
Timeframe
Another factor to consider for your home renovation is the timeframe for the project. This is extremely important, especially if you are remodeling your primary residence. In certain instances, you may not be able to stay in the space when it is under construction so be sure to plan ahead.
Depending on the size of the space, the timeframe can vary widely. Therefore, it is important to choose a contractor that will keep you informed throughout the project. That way you can be sure that your home will be finished in the established amount of time and limit any surprises along the way.
Space
Every home is unique, and no two renovations are alike. Depending on your plans for your remodel, you may want to add to the overall square footage. This may require special permitting, licensing, or HOA regulations that you will have to follow.
In other instances, owners can repurpose different spaces to be functional and elegant. If you want to create a bigger kitchen, perhaps you will need to remove an interior wall to design the open-concept kitchen of your dreams.
If you’re working from home, and need an office space to host your remote meetings, how about repurposing an extra bedroom or den into the home office of your dreams? That way you can stay connected with work, even if the job site is miles away. Whatever your plans for your home, be sure to consider the space in which you are working with.
Designs/Style
When planning the style of your home, it is easy to get lost in the different types of furniture, textures, colors and more. One way to help with the design stage of a whole-home renovation is to picture what you want the final space to look like. If you don’t know, pull inspiration from your friends, magazines, television shows or other outlets.
In addition to the style of your new space, consider how you want the space to function. Will your kitchen be designed for hosting and gatherings? Will the great room be family friendly? Even for children or grandkids?
When you consider the functionality of the space and what you will use your home for, it will be easier to start designing the look and feel of each room.
Hire a Contractor
A whole home remodel is no DIY project, in fact, it is best left to a professional contractor. If you are looking for a contractor for your major home renovation, trust Varian Construction.
Based out of Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has been renovating homes, condominiums and commercial projects for more than 30 years. In those three decades, Varian has been awarded with 15 Florida Home Builders Association awards, for excellent and stunning work.
Furthermore, Owner Bill Varian has been accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP) ensuring that your home will be built with quality and care for years to come.
Fully licensed to work in Florida, Varian Construction can successfully complete your renovation within your desired budget and timeframe. In fact, Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners, so you can be confident that your home is in good hands.
For those with design plans or space renovations, Varian Construction uses its connections and resources to not only meet the owner’s expectations but to exceed them. If you are interested in hiring Varian Construction for your major home renovation, contact us today at 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com
Recent Comments