Category: News

Remodeling your home gives you the opportunity to bring your space up to date without having to purchase an entirely new home. While being able to update your space is very exciting, it doesn’t hurt to take a look at what’s popular and on the rise in today’s remodeling market to get a better idea of what you might want to add to your home during its remodel. Here are our top five predicted remodeling trends for 2020:

1) Smart home features

Smart home features are extremely popular with today’s home remodels. In a world where almost everything in our lives is activated by touch or voice, why should our homes be any different? In many kitchen remodels, homeowners are opting for features like smart sinks. With the touch of your hand, the water will turn on and off or adjust to hot or cold. Today’s homeowners want their homes to be as accessible and user friendly as possible. It’s no wonder so many are adding smart home features during their remodels such as smart lighting, robotic devices that make cleaning easier and unmonitored security systems.

2) The destination tub

With bathroom remodels, many people are opting for the destination tub. Typically, it’s a free-standing tub in the middle or off to the side of the bathroom to make it seem like an exclusive and private retreat. Many homeowners are opting to remove their tubs entirely! Contemporary design popularity is also on the rise for bathroom remodels, as is increasing your bathroom’s size if possible.

3) Home wellness

In 2020, you can expect to see a rise in home wellness improvements during renovations. These include but are not limited to non-toxic materials being used during the remodeling process, water and air purification systems and circadian lighting to improve sleep.

4) Climate proofing

Many millennial homeowners have turned their remodeling efforts toward “climate proofing”. With a concerned eye on climate change and the effects extreme weather patterns have had on their homes, many are investing in home improvements that will help make their homes “disaster resistant”.

5) Saving money is the focus

For a lot of millennial homeowners, saving money is a focus during their remodel. They have a budget and they plan to stick to it – and for good reason! While remodeling projects won’t cease entirely, contractors can expect homeowners to be more cognizant of their spending and opt for features that will save them money down the road such as energy-efficient lighting, home insulation and improved roofing.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are looking for a contractor that’s going to go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner.

Just what exactly is commercial remodeling? Commercial remodeling is a process that businesses undergo to remodel their space as opposed to a more costly move into a new facility. Oftentimes, business owners choose to remodel when they do not have the room for a major expansion, want to maximize the efficiency of their space and/or the business has a need for growth but not the financial means to invest in a new location. Here are five key benefits to commercial remodeling for business owners:

1) It maximizes the efficiency of your space

Remodeling can help maximize the efficiency of your space. If your building is outdated, it may be cluttered with cubicles and unused space. In a remodel, the business owner can plan along with the contractor to create a space that opens up the existing location and makes use of unused areas of the building. Additionally, not only will a remodel improve the look of a property, but it will also allow the business owner to express themselves architecturally and create a space that best represents their company and its values.

2) Remodeling is less expensive than investing in a new location

A commercial remodel means the business will stay put while renovations are competed. While employees may be displaced for a period of time, remodeling an existing structure takes much less time than building a new one. Not to mention, it’s less expensive than purchasing an additional location on top of the existing one.

3) It can help with a rebranding of your company

Similar to how a commercial remodel can help maximize the efficiency of your business’ space, it can also help with the rebranding of a company. An outdated office typically doesn’t reflect the energy and values of a vibrant 2020 firm. A remodeling project for your business can help you redesign the space into the office of your dreams while reinforcing your brand.

4) It can maximize employee productivity

If your business is located in an older building, the office may begin to feel outdated, especially to your younger, millennial-aged employees. By remodeling your space and giving it a new look, your employees may feel more eager and excited to work in an environment that better represents and relates to them as individuals. Additionally, if your remodel opens up your space by removing outdated cubicles, your employees may feel literally less trapped and encouraged to work more freely or in ways that make them their most productive.

5) It can help you expand your business financially

A remodel can also help your business grow financially. If you’re in a place where you need more room but do not have the means to invest in an entirely new property, a remodel is the way to go. With more room for more employees, more work can be accomplished and you can maximize the productivity of your business. Additionally, remodeling will also increase the value of your commercial property, should you do plan to move locations in the future.

Commercial construction is all around us, especially in rapidly growing areas like Southwest Florida. If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are looking for a contractor that’s going to go above and beyond the call of duty for your commercial remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. As a full-service general contractor, they are able to complete a variety of commercial buildings, tenant buildouts and interior office renovations, and can assist in the design and completion of all project types.

Four Ways to Make Your Home More Sustainable

Sustainable construction is when a contractor or construction company adopts environmentally responsible and resource efficient practices throughout a project’s duration. Standard construction practices rely heavily on cheap oil, regular logistics, several types of materials, large amounts of electric energy and water. By having sustainable construction practices, a company will help in the enhancement of local flora and fauna, effectively and efficiently use resources, reduce pollution and incorporate renewable sources of energy. Not to mention, sustainable construction practices will help counter climate change and global warming.

If you’re an individual that is looking to complete a home remodel but wants to be environmentally conscious throughout the process, considering working with contracting company that practices sustainable construction. Not only will it save you money month-to-month after the project, but it will also help you reduce your carbon footprint. Knowing that you saved energy, materials and money when completing your remodeling project is a win-win for yourself and the environment. If you’re looking to give your whole house or a couple of spaces a new look through a remodel, here are four ways to work in sustainable construction practices:

Work with a Certified Green Professional

Going green often comes with the notion that it will cost you more green. For a Certified Green Professional, this is not the case. The Certified Green Professional™ designation recognizes builders, remodelers and other industry professionals who incorporate green and sustainable building principles into homes— without driving up the cost of construction. You read that right. Certified Green Professionals complete your remodel without increasing the price of your project. CGP coursework is closely aligned with the ICC 700 National Green Building Standard, which includes chapters on energy, water and resource efficiency, indoor environmental quality, lot and site development and homeowner education and is the core curriculum for the required CGP classes. This distinction is not an easy one to achieve, so working with a Certified Green Professional almost guarantees you’re working with someone who’s passionate about their work and the environment.

Simply put, a Certified Green Professional has the tools, knowledge and resources to make your home as sustainable and energy efficient as possible without increasing your budget.

Select the right materials

While working with your sustainable contractor, you can select the right materials that will get your project off on the right foot. First, consider selecting recycled products or products from local sources. The materials can be virtually anything from renewable products like bamboo floors, to recycled woods and other flooring materials that will put a unique twist on your custom home. If you’re looking to add wood floors, check to see which trees typically grow in our close to your area. By choosing locally sourced products, you’re reducing the amount of fuel it takes to get the product to your door.

Construction processes are heavily reliant on water whether it be for curing concrete, preparing process or clean up post-project. To reduce the water used from local resources, consider harvesting rainwater during construction for these processes. If you live in an area where it rains often like Southwest Florida, there will be plenty of water for your project. To reduce water usage after your project is complete, have your contractor install water-saving dual-flush toilets, low-flow faucets and other water-saving features.

Incorporate renewable sources of energy

It’s important to note that depending on the climate in your local region and the size of your home, you may not be able to power it entirely by renewable energy. But something is always better than nothing! However, incorporating these practices into your home are guaranteed to save you money and help the environment. There are some things to consider when adding renewable energy resources to your home such as HOA and zoning regulations. Be sure to work with your contractor, do your research and ask questions before getting started. Here are eight renewable energy options to consider:

• Rooftop solar panels
• Wind turbines
• Solar ovens
• Hydropower
• Solar water heating
• Solar air conditioning
• Tesla powerwall
• Tubular skylights

More information on these eight renewable energy sources can be found here.

Practice smart designing methods and considerations

Technology is nearly inescapable in today’s day and age. While some may see it as a hindrance, the technology that can be used in construction is more advanced than ever and can help make the process more sustainable. This is known as smart designing methods and considerations. These advancements include the utilization of latest technologies such as BIM (Building Information Modeling) which can help estimate the materials required to complete a project. This reduces the chances of over ordering materials and reduces waste. For those who live in colder regions, proper insulation will reduce energy loss. During a remodel, a homeowner may consider a smarter placement for their windows. Strategically placing windows throughout the structure to let in more natural light will reduce the need for artificial light during the day. Additionally, thick, high-quality glass that keeps heat and cold air in will reduce energy usage in the home. If you’re in a state prone to bad storms like hurricanes, having thick glass in your home will also benefit you during hurricane season from a preparedness and safety standpoint.

If you live in Southwest Florida and are looking for a contractor who cares not only about the environment but about you as a homeowner, look no further than Varian Construction. Bill Varian, President and CEO, is not only a talented contractor but a Certified Green Professional™. Contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103.

Completing a home remodel is a project that requires a lot of time, energy and money. Because remodeling your home is a large commitment and not a DIY project, it’s imperative to do your research and ask your potential contractor the right questions. Before hiring a contractor, you should ask them these five essential questions:

1) What’s your license number?

Although this question may seem inconsequential, it’s an important one to ask. A contractor that works without a valid contracting license is not one you want to work with. Skimping on a key factor such as a license may also mean this individual will skimp on other important aspects of the remodeling process like being bonded, insured, getting the proper permits to complete your project, communication with your homeowner’s association and more.

2) Can I see examples of your completed work?

Taking a look at examples of your potential contractor’s work will give you an inside look into their capabilities, skills and previously completed projects. In addition to this, it will illustrate whether or not they have a wide portfolio of projects and experience. If they don’t take photos of their work, it may be an indicator that it’s not up to par or they were unhappy with the final results.

3) Do you take on remodeling projects of my scope?

If you’re looking through the portfolio of the contractor’s work and don’t see projects that fit your vision or the scale of your project, ask if they take on projects like yours. It’s essential to confirm that your contractor has the skills and ability to complete your remodel. They may not have been given the opportunity to complete a project as unique as yours quite yet, but that does not mean they are unable.

4) Who will be working in my home?

Depending on the contracting company, the individual you meet with to discuss the project may not be the one who completes it. If this is the case of the contractor you’re considering, ask to meet the project manager before hiring them. This will be the person who is in your home on a daily basis and who’s making sure your project gets completed. Your trust in them is just as important as your trust in the company in general.

5) How do you work?

Remodeling isn’t always a 9-5 job. Depending on the contractor, their work may start earlier, end later or flow into the weekends. Asking in advance how the contractor works will save you some headaches and allow you to adjust your lifestyle for the duration of the project if need be. Other important questions to ask that relate to your project are “Will you clean up after your work each day?”, “Will you be hauling off any garbage and debris from the project?” and “How have you resolved differences in opinions in the past?”

If you live in the Southwest Florida area and are looking for a contracting company that will be able to answer all these questions and more with confidence, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner.

If you’re deciding whether to remodel your home or move to a new home, it’s important to weigh your options before making this big decision. Both sides of the coin have their pros and cons, but here are five reasons to remodel your home instead of buying new.

Remodeling your home is less expensive

Take a look at the current market. It’s extremely rare, if not nearly impossible to find a home for the price it would cost you to complete a full-home remodel. The average cost of homes on the market will vary based on your location, but according to Zillow.com, the median home price in Collier County, Florida is $335,900. In comparison, the average upgrade to finishes within your home such as paint, trim, flooring and cabinetry may range from $40,000-$60,000. Not to mention, after remodeling you won’t have a mortgage to pay off on a new home, closing costs, realtor expenses and more. It’s a cost-effective win-win.

You stay in your current location

This benefit of remodeling may seem obvious, but it’s one many overlook when debating between moving or remodeling. If you chose your home for its ideal location but had to sacrifice on some other home benefits in the process, remodeling is your chance to make the home exactly what you’ve dreamed of while staying put. Additionally, moving can be an extremely stressful process, especially if you have children. Remodeling allows you and your family to stay put, with no change in schools, groups of friends, jobs and more.

Remodeling truly makes the home your own

When you first bought your home, you may have done so because it met your basic needs. It had the right number of bathrooms; was the type of house you were looking for and it was in the perfect neighborhood. Additionally, you may have purchased the home because it was in your budget at the time and was less expensive than one with modern finishes. Since then, aspects of your life have changed. It’s rare that by moving again, you’re going to find a new home that’s perfect in every way, shape and form. By remodeling, you’re able to truly make a house your own. Maybe it’s by opening up the space, remodeling an old bathroom or upgrading your kitchen.

You’re left with a sense of accomplishment

It’s no secret that renovating your home can be a time-consuming and expensive process. But, it’s completely worth it in the end. Once your home remodel is finished, you’ll be left with a sense of accomplishment. And the gorgeous home that perfectly fits your family’s needs and better fits your vision may come with a much lower price tag than buying new.

If you’re a Southwest Florida homeowner and reading this piece has inspired you to ditch the idea of moving and instead remodel your home, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner.

A large amount of the Florida population is over 60 years of age, having relocated to the south to enjoy their retirement. Retiring in Florida becomes a decades-long commitment during which time an individual’s body may change, but without some planning, their home will not. If you’re looking to live out your golden years in one home, a remodel may be necessary from a safety and quality-of-life standpoint. The contractor you choose for this task should fully understand the importance of creating a home that will enhance your quality of life. Whether you’re looking to remodel a home or a condo, here are three recommendations on how you can age more comfortably in your own home.

Work with a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS)

Although seniors have other options for where to live as they get older, an overwhelming number would prefer to stay in their homes. This is where a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) comes in. This certification program teaches the technical, business management and customer service skills that are essential to older adults, remodeling your home into a safe, yet stimulating environment that allows you to maintain your independence as you age. This certification provides CAPS contractors with the skills necessary to help clients make choices that will help them stay in their homes safely and securely. Working with a CAPS contractor will ensure that your best interests and your future is in mind.

Select the right accommodations

There is an expansive list of accommodations and features a Certified Aging-in-Place specialist can add to your home in order to make it more comfortable as you grow older. The full list can be found here. Some of the most notable and common remodels that can be completed for your whole-house or condo remodel include changes to the overall floor plan, wider hallways and doors for wheelchair access, non-slip flooring, additional windows for natural light, handrails, easy-to-read controls on appliances, fold-down shower seats, high-tech security/intercom systems and a residential elevator or lift.

Make your home more visitable

Additionally, a CAPS contractor can help make a client’s home more “visitable”. As a homeowner today, you may not be at an age where ramps and grab bars are useful or even necessary for you. But over time, this may be a giant relief for aging parents or other visitors.

If you live in Southwest Florida and are looking for a company that takes your future into consideration when completing a condo or whole-house remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Bill Varian, the company’s owner and president, is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist with your best interests, safety and future in mind. Varian Construction has been doing business and making homes more comfortable for Southwest Florida residents for over 30 years.

Remodeling a home can seem like a daunting task. However, if you select the right contractor to complete your whole-house remodel, the process will be well worth its reward. If you’ve outgrown your current home but love the location too much to move, here are five reasons to remodel your home:

It truly makes the home your own

When you first bought your home, you may have done so because it met your basic needs. It had the right number of bathrooms; was the type of house you were looking for and it was in the perfect neighborhood. Additionally, you may have bought the house because it was in your budget at the time and was less expensive than one with modern finishes. Since then, aspects of your life have changed. By remodeling, you’re able to truly make a house your own. Maybe it’s by opening up the space, remodeling an old bathroom or upgrading your kitchen.

It increases the value of your home

One of the biggest advantages to remodeling your home is it increases its value. Whether it’s adding modern finishes in the kitchen to appeal to a younger market or if you upgrade your siding to add more curb appeal, after these upgrades are completed the value of your home will increase significantly. Since it’s all about location, location, location and if your home is already in a desirable neighborhood, it may be more financially feasible to renovate, staying right where you are and adding upgrades, as opposed to trying to build a new home.

You can take advantage of energy saving options

If you have an older home, you most likely don’t have high-efficiency windows, new insulation, solar panels or hurricane impact glass. Adding these features to your home will not only help increase its value but save you some money on your energy bills each month. Hurricane impact glass will also be beneficial to your personal safety if you’re in a state prone to hurricanes. Additionally, it will save you some time when preparing for a storm because you no longer have to board up your windows and they’re energy efficient. Not to mention, if you do opt for greener, energy-saving appliances you’re also reducing your carbon footprint. It’s a win-win.

More room for less money

If your family has grown over the years but your house has stayed the same, splitting a large bedroom into two, finishing your basement or turning your attic into a spare bedroom can create more space in your home for guests or a live-in family member. Renovating your home in this fashion is much more cost effective than building. Plus, you won’t have to move for more space.

You’re left with a sense of accomplishment

It’s no secret that renovating your home can be a time-consuming, expensive process. But, it’s completely worth it in the end. Once your home remodel is finished, you’ll be left with a sense of accomplishment. And the gorgeous home that perfectly fits your family’s needs and better fits your vision you created may come with a much lower price tag than buying new.

When remodeling your home, it’s imperative to select the right contractor who will work with your family, vision and budget in mind. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner. If you live in the Southwest Florida area and have been inspired to begin your home remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103.

Remodeling your condo can help turn your house into a home. It can be lengthy process to get the results you’re looking for, but in the end you’ll be left with a space that’s perfect for you or has been upgraded so that it can sold to someone else. While every condo remodeling project is unique, each project begins with the same question, “Where to start?”

If you’re unsure or even totally lost on where to start with your condo remodeling project, here are five steps you can follow to get on track.

Talk to your homeowner’s association or condo board

Most condominiums have a homeowner’s association or condo board. Before beginning a single thing, find out the rules and regulations of your community as they relate to remodeling as there will undoubtedly be guidelines as to when you can build, commercial vehicle regulations and limitations in terms of design. Not checking these rules beforehand will cause more than a headache or two. It can also cause frustrations when trying to receive deliveries or when working with tradespeople. Even worse, it could lead to a bad relationship with those who serve on the homeowner’s association or condo board.

Make a realistic budget

According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of renovating a home that is less than 1,000 square feet is $18,347. Homeowners should expect to spend at least $100 to $200 per square foot of their home. When it comes to renovating room by room, the cost to renovate a kitchen is anywhere from $12,000 – $33,000 and a bathroom is between $6,000 – $14,000. In order to set a realistic budget, ask yourself these important questions:

• Which room needs the most work?
• Where can I save?
• What would I like to splurge on?
• What are the goals of this project?

With this information in mind, you can create a budget you can stick to, based on what you’re looking to do and how much you’re willing to spend.

Create a timeline

Some condo remodeling projects are going to take more time than others. Depending on the time and the scope of the work, the typical rule of thumb is that condo remodeling can take anywhere from 3-7 months. If you’re doing a complete remodel, plan for longer timeframes and be flexible!

Find inspiration for your project

Looking for inspiration for your new condo remodel is a great way to get excited about your project! Seek inspiration from free websites and digital platforms like Houzz and Pinterest. Or you can search popular home magazines like Better Home and Garden for the newest trends. This is also a great time to begin window shopping at furniture stores and picking out pieces you feel would look perfect in your new space. Take photos of the furniture pieces you favor, clip photos from the trendiest home magazines and keep your favorite color swatches. You can then turn these elements into an inspiration board, which is an excellent way to help make your vision come to life right before your eyes.

When finding inspiration for your condo remodeling project, it’s important to remember that it’s inspiration and not quite your reality. You must know your limits. Keep your budget in mind and your building’s limitations. If your condo does not have high ceilings, try not to fall in love with the idea of exposed beams. Some condos also have smaller rooms and tight spaces and may not be big enough to fit the eight-piece sectional sofa you fell in love with.

Hire a skilled contractor

Unless you’re the skilled contractor, condo remodeling is not a DIY project. In fact, most municipalities require a licensed contractor to remodel a condo. A homeowner is not allowed to remodel their condo, unlike a single-family home remodeling project where such work is allowed. By hiring a professional, you’re hiring someone who is going to go above and beyond that of typical contractor duties. They may be able to help you coordinate with your homeowner’s association, get permits, schedule deliveries and more. Not to mention their hard work will help your condo do a 180!

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are looking for a contractor that’s going to go above and beyond the call of duty for your condo remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner.

Kitchens are one of the most important rooms in our homes. It’s where messes and memories are made. It’s a room you’ll spend a decent amount of time in, so it’s important you really enjoy the space. If your kitchen has taken some hits over the years and is in need of a facelift, here are six kitchen remodeling ideas that won’t break the bank.

Get new decorations

Artwork is dated. Dish towels are stained. The clock is dusty. It’s time for some new decorations! Adding new pieces to your kitchen can make it feel like a whole new room. To avoid breaking the bank on accents that are temporary, visit stores that offer discounts. Stores such as Homegoods, TJMaxx, Marshall’s, Ross and Hobby Lobby provide quality decorations at a fraction of the price. You can have a lot of fun with this by adding pieces that represent your personality or switching things out season by season. It’s a temporary fix, but it may do the trick until you’re ready for a full kitchen remodel.

Paint the cabinets

Sometimes all your kitchen needs is a quick coat of paint! If your cabinets are outdated but you’re not ready for to put the time and effort into full kitchen remodel, painting your cabinets may do the trick. Before painting, be sure to sand your cabinets so the paint will stick and last longer. Additionally, take the time to find inspiration on popular home websites such as Houzz and Pinterest. Spice up your kitchen with a color that’s “in” right now such as painting your cabinets millennial pink or a mysterious black. Consider stopping by your local paint store and asking a professional about what products to use. They’ll have insights on the best primers and finishes that are specifically manufactured for cabinetry. But of course – swatch the color beforehand! Additionally, adding new kitchen hardware to your cabinets will take them from drab to fab.

Add a backsplash

If you don’t have a backsplash currently, adding one to your kitchen can give it new life. Get creative with the colors, shapes, patterns and the personality of your kitchen will take off. Adding a backsplash will take some additional work if you’re not a handyman yourself. So, if you’re not up for the challenge of remodeling this portion of your kitchen yourself, consider hiring a company or handyman to do it for you.

Create a breakfast nook

The dinner table is for dinner… so where do you eat breakfast? You can make use of an unused corner and turn it into a cozy place to enjoy your morning coffee. Additionally, it may become a multipurpose area where you can work, relax or chat with guests. Keeping the nook close to your coffee maker will provide you with easy access, but don’t forget to make your nook comfy with pillows and a blanket.

Upgrade your appliances

Maybe what’s really dragging you down in your kitchen is your dull and old appliances. They’re not energy efficient, the ice machine doesn’t work and your sink leaks… it’s time for an upgrade! Adding new appliances will give your kitchen an upgraded look and the appearance of a kitchen remodel without tearing down any walls or putting up new cabinets.

Add an island

Adding an island is an alternative to a full kitchen remodel that will take more time, work and money than simply adding new decorations. But it is so worth it in the end! You’ll feel like you have a whole new kitchen! By adding an island, you instantly add more counter space, storage and a potential seating area. However, adding an island is not just for any kitchen or homeowner. First, make sure you have the space for one. Secondly, make sure you have the skills. Lastly, you may need an electric outlet in the island in order to meet code regulations. This project is one that may be better suited for a professional. So carefully weigh your options and skills before diving into this one!

These tips and tricks can help breathe new life into your kitchen. If these small changes to your new home inspires you to do a complete kitchen remodel (or you need a little help with any of these projects along the way) a trusted and reliable contractor can save you some gray hairs and headaches.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are looking for some help on your kitchen remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is an owner operated company that offers a variety of construction and remodeling services. They are eager to help you transform your kitchen!