Category: News

Varian Construction was awarded the 2020 Sand Dollar Award for Best Addition on a Single-Family Home during the annual event sponsored by the Collier Building Industry Association’s Sales and Marketing Council.

The Sand Dollar Awards are presented each year to member builders, developers, architects, remodelers, interior design firms, landscape architects, trades and marketing, sales and/or advertising professionals who have demonstrated building, design and marketing excellence in Collier County. Due to Covid-19, the awards ceremony was held virtually this year.

For Varian’s Best Addition on a Single-Family Home, the project’s objective was to create an addition to the client’s home that would include a separate, private space for aging parents, additional living area and a separate office space.

For the new addition to the home, Varian Construction carried the same porcelain plank flooring from the main area of the home into the new space. The new family room has a tray ceiling with LED strip lighting behind crown molding and custom designed molding above the sliders. The family room also includes a 72″ linear electric fireplace with stone façade, custom recessed panels above the mantel, floating shelves, cabinetry and a full-wall built-in bookcase.

Off the family room, a guest bedroom was added which can be used in the future should nursing or a caretaker be required for aging parents.

The in-law suite, which is 1,200 square feet total, includes a private driveway, one-car attached garage. A galley-style kitchen is also included with a two-burner electric cook-top, microwave, under-counter refrigerator, an under-mounted kitchen sink, custom tumbled marble backsplash and granite countertops. Toe-kick lighting is found in the kitchen and bathroom for hands-free use. The kitchen opens up to a private sitting area.

The addition’s new large bedroom suite includes lighted tray-ceiling and Universal design elements such as zero-threshold doors, a large walk-in shower, elevated toilet with grab bars and an oversized walk-in closet. The bedroom also features a private screened-in lanai.

A new office was added to the existing garage that includes impact-rated full-light French doors, LED lighting and matching crown and trim.

Enlarged doorways throughout the home round out the list of features that were added to this remodel allowing the owner’s parents to age gracefully and safely in their home.

With all new windows, roof, stucco, paint and landscaping, this home was instantly elevated to one of the more pleasant-looking homes in the neighborhood.

As a Certified Aging in Place Specialist, owner and founder of Varian Construction Bill Varian was attentive to every detail, precise and meticulous during every stage of the remodel. Varian Construction wants your home to not just look great, but to last as long as possible without the need for repair.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are looking to begin a home 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. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your dream home.

When you first purchased your home, it likely fit your needs at the time, but since then, your needs and that of your family have changed. You love your home and the memories you’ve created there, and the location is great. But it needs a little TLC and you now have the financial wherewithal to make that happen. Here are some key benefits to remodeling your current home into your dream home and tips for how you can make it happen.   

Understand the benefits to dream home remodeling

Remodeling your current home into the home you’ve always dreamed of poses a number of benefits including:

• Remodeling your home is less expensive than buying new
• You get to stay in your current location
• Remodeling truly makes the home your own
• You’re left with a sense of accomplishment

Remodeling your home will improve its value

The benefits listed above are all great reasons to remodel your current home into your dream home, but money ends up being a major deciding factor for many families. In the end, remodeling your home will not only save you money compared to buying new, but it will also improve your home’s value in the long run. Many homes on the market today don’t have the latest and greatest appliances that buyers are looking for. To improve your home’s value during your dream remodel, consider upgrading the bathrooms, improve your home’s wellness, update the kitchen, add smart features and add a home office. 

Remodel your home so you can age in place

Over the years, you’ve created an endless number of memories in your home. And with a remodel, you can continue to do so for decades more. This is called aging-in-place remodeling. When you remodel your home to age in place, you add additional accommodations to keep your home safe such as changes to the overall floor plan, wider hallways and doors for wheelchair access, non-slip flooring, additional windows for natural light, handrails and more. The full list can be found here.

During this process, you’ll work with a Certified Aging-in-Place specialist. 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 during visits by aging parents or other visitors. 

Get ready to work with a contractor

Remodeling your home is not a DIY project by any means. Once you’ve made the decision to remodel your home, it’s time to start looking for the perfect contractor to accomplish the job. You’re putting a lot of trust into this person, and there are ways you can prepare yourself to make sure you’re on the right track. Picking the perfect contractor for your project requires:

• Finding design inspiration and figuring out your goals
• Establishing your budget
• Setting realistic expectations
• Doing your research
• Asking the right questions

Understand the work it takes to make a dream home happen

When you’ve ultimately made the exciting leap to remodel your home and you’ve picked the right contractor, it’s important to prepare yourself for the task at hand. This process can be stressful and is something that you, as a homeowner, should prepare for. Here are five tips to prepare for your home remodel:

• Make a record of your belongings
• Clean out the refrigerator
• Prepare for dust
• Create a safe room for pets
• Have fun!

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to begin your dream home 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. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your dream home.

If you’re looking to hire a licensed contractor in Southwest Florida, you’re going to want to look for someone who’s not only qualified, but someone you can trust. Here are three tips for hiring a licensed contractor.

Make a realistic plan

A good project starts with a good plan. Our first tip is to create a realistic plan and expectations based on the scope of your project. For example, adding a basement to your Southwest Florida home is an unrealistic expectation. During your planning period, it’s almost as important to consider the daily disturbances and debris associated with your project that might affect you and your neighbors as it is the project itself.

After making your plan and considering various licensed contractors, you will be able to work with them and determine if they are the right fit for your project.

Utilize all your resources

When looking to hire a licensed contractor in Southwest Florida, utilize all your resources. You can ask friends and family for references, see information on the contractor on reputable websites like the Better Business Bureau and Angie’s List, read reviews left by previous customers and determine if any formal complaints have been filed against them.

After putting together a short list of licensed contractors you’re considering working with, continue to use your resources by reaching out to them directly. Set up an in person or virtual meeting and ask them the important questions like the ones listed here.

Discuss best methods of communication

Because communication is always key, you’ll want to pick a licensed contractor that communicates in a way you understand. Because you’re not the expert, from day one you should assess if the contractor is talking in a way that’s over your head.

In addition to verbal communication, it’s important to discuss how you’re going to communicate day-to-day, so you know what to expect. Will the contractor reach out to you via telephone calls, texts, email, web-based platform, etc?

If you’re looking for a trusted, qualified and licensed contractor in Southwest Florida, 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. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your home remodeling project.

When planning to hire a general contractor to remodel your home, it is essential you do your research. Hiring someone who does the job incorrectly may land you in hot water and potentially in debt. If you’re looking to hire a general contractor in Naples, FL, here are three key things to know. 

Always trust your gut

When hiring a general contractor, or anyone you’re trusting to perform work on your home, it’s important to trust your gut and not ignore any red flags. For example, if a contractor is unwilling to tell you their license number, it likely means they do not have one. 

To ensure your project turns out perfectly, once you’ve found a couple of contractors you would like to work with, properly vet each general contractor and subcontractor, check references, ask the right questions, check their licenses and in the end negotiate a detailed contract.

Above all, you should be comfortable with the contractor you choose more than anything else and trust your gut. You’re essentially entering a relationship with this contractor to remodel your home, and that relationship needs to be successful. 

Communication is key

From the beginning, you’ll want to make sure the general contractor you’re vetting is having open, clear and honest communication with you at all times. From ensuring they’re licensed and insured to confirming they fully understand your project’s goals, communication is key. 

In addition to this, communication is essential when deciding whether or not you’re going to work with a general contractor because you’re not the expert. The contractor should be able to explain the project in laymen’s terms, so you’re never confused or caught off guard if things do not go as planned. 

Another aspect of communication you’ll want to discuss with your contractor is how they’re going to reach you and how you’re going to reach them. Will you communicate via call, text, email, web-based platform, etc? Additionally, you’ll want to know who you’re going to communicate with during the job and have their contact information on hand. 

Read the contract before you sign it

Once you’ve met with and compiled a list of three general contractors that you trust could do the job right, it’s time to negotiate a detailed contract. 

According to Angie’s List, Out of about 1,000 Angie’s List members responding to a recent online poll, 10 percent say they didn’t sign a contract for a large home improvement project, 4 percent only glanced at it and 32 percent admit to only reviewing it somewhat closely. 

Experts in the industry will place a strong emphasis on contracts, but each should have some flexibility for unforeseen circumstance that are out of both parties’ control. Nailing down a project’s specifics in a written contract protects the homeowner and the contractor. 

If you’re looking for a general contractor in Naples, FL, 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. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your home remodeling project.

Having a small bathroom in your home is not always a problem if you know how make the most of your space. If you’re looking to remodel your bathroom, here are five small bathroom tips:

Small Bathroom Tip #1 – Add lots of storage

Oftentimes, bathrooms never seem to have enough storage space. This is especially true in small bathrooms. To make the most of the space you do have, it’s important to get creative with storage. Take advantage of the area under your sink by adding a tiered organizer, mount baskets to the inside of your cabinet doors or even add a magnetic strip to keep track of bobby pins and hairclips.

Above the toilet, consider hanging baskets in lieu of shelves. They are a functional way to store items you may need to access more frequently such as extra rolls of toilet paper, hand towels and lotions. You can style the shelves by adding mason jars and storing your Q-tips and cotton balls here.

Lastly, if you don’t have a medicine cabinet, you’re going to want one in your small bathroom. Today’s designs are much more stylish than their ancestors and are perfect for keeping healthcare and beauty products neat, tidy and out of view.

Small Bathroom Tip #2 – Add texture

Just because a bathroom is small does not mean it has to be boring. Guest bathrooms or powder rooms are great places to experiment with new design trends. By adding different textures and colors to your bathroom, you’re creating a multidimensional space that pops and does not feel so boxed in. Consider adding contrasting tiles and patterns such as a subway tile in the shower and a terrazzo floor.

Small Bathroom Tip #3 – Save space where you can

In small bathrooms, it’s important to save space where you can because there isn’t much of it. Consider adding a pedestal sink or two to replace a large, traditional vanity that’s a space waster.

While this tip may have you enlisting the help of a professional, another great way to save space is to add a sliding pocket door. You can then perhaps add an open shelf or that pedestal sink you love! 

Small Bathroom Tip #4 – Install glass shower doors

Don’t let anyone fool you, small bathrooms can absolutely have walk-in showers. Bulky bathtubs with curtains will make your bathroom feel closed off and appear much smaller than it really is. By installing glass shower doors, you’ll make a small space feel bigger.

Small Bathroom Tip #5 – Enlist the help of a professional

DIY is not always the way to go and it’s not always guaranteed to save you money. At the end of the day, a skilled contractor knows all the tips we’ve highlighted here and then some! Working with one from the beginning can save you money on unused supplies, mistakes and mismeasurements. Not to mention, they’ll save you lots of headaches.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to begin your bathroom 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. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your bathroom remodeling project.

Because remodeling a home can be a big and expensive task, you want to make sure you’re picking the right company to get the job done right. If you’re looking for a guide on how to pick the right remodeling company, keep reading!

1) Find design inspiration and figure out your goals

When you officially decide to remodel your home, it’s important to have inspiration for your project and figure out what the goals of your remodeling project are before speaking to any contractors. By deciding if you’re going for a modern or contemporary overhaul, if you’re looking to open up the home, add more bedrooms, etc., doing so ahead of time will save you both time and money. By establishing the goals for your home remodel, when you do meet with a home remodeling company and look at their portfolio, you’re instantly able to see if they’ve completed similar projects to yours and if they’re up for the task.

If you’re looking for bathroom remodeling ideas, kitchen remodeling ideas or remodeling ideas that will improve the value of your home, check out our blogs on the topics. 

2) Create your budget

Before speaking to a home remodeling company, set your budget. Your budget is a guideline for success — and your bank account — during this process. By establishing your budget early on, you can ensure you’re dealing with a home remodeling company that is comfortable working within price points similar to yours.

3) Set realistic expectations

When you’re preparing for your remodel, it’s important to set realistic expectations for your project. Ultimately, you will end up with the remodeled home you’ve always dreamed of. However, there’s bound to be some stress along the way. Here are some things you can do before a home remodel to prepare yourself for this process. You can read the entire blog here.

• Make a record of your belongings
• Clean out the refrigerator
• Prepare for dust
• Create a safe room for your pets
• Get ready to have fun!

4) Do your research

After gaining inspiration, creating your budget and setting realistic expectations, you can begin doing research on the home remodeling companies in your area. First, create a list of the remodeling companies in your area. A Google search is an easy and free way to begin this process. Browse their websites and look at their completed projects to see if they’ve completed projects of similar scope to yours.

Once you have a shortlist of the home remodeling companies you’re considering, do your research on them. Now, you can begin calling to set up interviews and perhaps view their showrooms. You can also read their reviews or personally reach out to homeowners who have previously worked with these companies.

5) Ask the right questions

Finally, when you’re speaking with the home remodeling company on the phone or in person, you want to make sure you’re asking the right questions. Here are some examples of questions you should ask:

• What’s your license number?
• Can I see examples of your completed work?
• Do you take on remodeling projects of my scope?
• Who will be working in my home?
• How do you work?

Our full blog on questions to ask your home remodeling company can be read here.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to begin your home remodel, 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. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project.

A large amount of the Florida population is over 60 years of age, and many of these older adults want to stay in their homes as they age. If you are one of them, there are the steps you can take to create a plan for aging in place. 

1) Complete a home safety check 

One of the first things to do when creating a plan for aging in place is to complete a home safety check. By doing so, you’re ensuring your home is set up to be a safe and easy place to get around in and can identify areas that need improvement. AARP has identified several easy modifications that will ensure your home is a safe one. These include, but are not limited to, non-slip floor surfaces, grab bars in bathrooms, lever-handled doorknobs and personal alert systems that enable you to call for help in emergencies.

2) Prioritize your health

Another way to age in place is to prioritize your health. Keeping yourself in good physical shape is crucial to maintaining your independence as you age. Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet and minimize your stress to stay as strong and healthy as you can for as long as possible. 

3) Recognize that technology is your friend

Not only is technology important in keeping you engaged with your community, family and friends, but it can also be beneficial as you age to help you maintain your independence. Beyond smartphones and Life Alert, other forms of technology you can add to your home include high-tech security/intercom systems and a residential elevator or lift. 

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

To ensure your independence as you age, you should work with a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS). This certification program teaches the technical, business management and customer service skills that are essential to  older adults. A CAPS contractor can help you model 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. 

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 home 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 and more. 

If you live in Southwest Florida and are looking for a company that takes your future into consideration and can help you comfortably and safely age in place, 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. 

The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where you gather with family, entertain friends and in general, make memories. As such, it should exude comfort. If your current condo kitchen is outdated and not your favorite place in your home, it may be time for a remodel. If you’re considering remodeling your condo kitchen, here are five questions you should ask yourself before getting started. 

1) What are my goals? 

Before taking a sledgehammer to your dated countertops, you should first ask yourself what you would like to accomplish with your kitchen remodel. Ask yourself if you’re looking to update the look of your kitchen, make it more functional and/or add more storage. Are you looking to turn your kitchen into a chef’s paradise, make it a place to entertain or add space so your kids can do their homework? Keep in mind that the more goals you have for your kitchen, the higher the price tag may be. It’s important to ask yourself if you’re willing to splurge to make your kitchen into your new favorite room in your condo. 

2) What’s my budget? 

Now that you have an idea for what your goals are for your new condo kitchen, you can set a budget. Setting a budget will help you stay on track and keep things realistic. If you’re planning on hiring a contractor, be sure to share your budget with them so you both are on the same page. 

3) Do I want to keep this layout? 

Keep in mind that if you do decide to move major plumbing fixtures like the sink, this will add extra costs potentially raising your budget. However, if you have big dreams and your budget is up for the task, changing your layout can be the perfect way to finally add that breakfast nook you’ve always wanted or near endless amount of counter space. 

While considering changing your layout, you should also consider the lighting of your kitchen and how it could be improved. Would you like to add more natural light, utilize the natural light you have most effectively and/or get rid of dated light fixtures that won’t do your new space any justice? Thinking of your lighting during when deciding if you’d like to change the layout of your kitchen will aid you in making this critical decision. 

4) How much storage do I want and need? 

A lot of homeowners decide to remodel their kitchens due to a lack of storage. When you’re remodeling your condo kitchen, think of what storage needs and how a remodel can solve these problems. Are you in need of a bigger pantry, a double-door fridge/freezer or even a wine cooler? Considering these options first will ensure the end result you desire.

5) Do I need professional help? 

Remodeling a condo kitchen is not a simple task by any means. Before you decide to make this project a DIY, ask yourself if you’re going to need professional help. For large projects like a kitchen remodel, it’s definitely recommended. A contractor can help you with construction, design, architecture, permitting, working with your homeowners’ association and more. In Florida, you’re required to obtain a building permit before renovating your condo kitchen because condominiums are considered a multi-family, a homeowner is not allowed to obtain an owner-builder permit. A contractor knows these requirements and regulations and can take the stress of them out of your hands. You’ll quickly see the ROI when the project is in a trusted professional’s hands and you’re left with your dream condo kitchen without all the stress of managing the remodel yourself.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to begin your condo kitchen 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. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project.

Having spent more time in our homes that ever before, you may have noticed your bathroom is in need of a refresh. However, if you’re not in the market to spend tons of money on the project, there are creative ways to get the project done on a budget. If this is your case, here are five bathroom remodeling ideas that won’t break the bank. 

1) Limit your tile

Tile can get expensive. If you’re looking to save money on your bathroom remodel, limit the amount of tile you use and concentrate on using it in areas that are a necessity, such as high-impact areas like the floor. In your shower, the tile will need to go to at least the showerhead. To avoid using floor-to-ceiling tile in the shower, you can save by tiling to the showerhead and then painting the rest.

If you have expensive tastes, consider using artistic and expensive tile only as an accent. They will stand out against the rest of your bathroom and save you money by utilizing a less-expensive tile on the majority of the area. 

2) Get smart with your countertops 

Lots of homeowners are splurging on granite countertops. Because the sheer amount you’ll need in your bathroom is much smaller than in your kitchen, while you’re not spending as much here there’s still an opportunity to save money. 

Take a look at the most popular colors of granite countertops. Neutral colors like tan, brown and white are being used by most homeowners during remodels. You can instead opt for colors that aren’t used as frequently to save money and make your bathroom stand from the crowd.

Additionally, most countertop fabricators have remnants from larger projects that are the ideal size for bathroom countertops and are much more affordable. You can look into this option to save money and recycle at the same time.

3) Try a new paint color

A budget-friendly way to give your bathroom a new look is to give it a fresh coat of paint. However, if you’re going to take on this project, it may be best to enlist the help of a professional. This project will take a lot of time, patience and painters’ tape due to the smaller space of most bathrooms. There are nooks, crannies, bathtubs, windows, mirrors, tiles and more to avoid. Although you’ll save money on the paint, trust us when we say you may want to hire a professional for this one!

4) Fight the urge to move major plumbing fixtures

You can save lots of money by leaving the toilet and tub/shower right where they are. If their current locations fit your needs, there’s no need to move them! Moving these plumbing fixtures will drive up the cost of any bathroom remodeling project. 

5) Go green 

If you’re looking for bathroom remodeling ideas, consider going green with your choices. Adding new appliances like low-flow toilets, sinks and showerheads will not only help you conserve water, but they’ll save you money month to month on your energy and water bills.

All in all, remodeling your bathroom on a budget is a great way to give your home a refresh. Additionally, it can benefit you in the long run, as renovating your home’s bathroom is a proven way to increase your ROI should you choose to sell down the road.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to begin your bathroom 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. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your bathroom remodeling project.

While movie theatres, restaurants and other businesses must close during the coronavirus pandemic, Varian Construction is classified as an essential business. Our operations are able to continue as “normal” during this time and we’re taking intentional and careful measures as outlined by the Center for Disease Control to slow the spread of the virus, maintain a safe jobsite and ensure the safety of our staff and clients. Here’s what we’re doing: 

• Frequently cleaning and disinfecting of commonly used surfaces 
• Practicing social distancing 
• Employees who have symptoms are encouraged to stay home until symptoms have subsided 
• Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available
• Avoiding using other employees’ phones, desks, offices and other work tools and equipment, when possible. If necessary, they are cleaned and disinfected before and after use.
• Wearing personal protective equipment on and off the jobsite 

As an essential business, we’re hard at work continuing to transform people’s homes into their dream homes through our remodeling services. If spending more time in your home has you thinking of all the projects that need to be completed, the perfect time to start is now, and Varian Construction is open for business and able to help you get the ball rolling.  

Nonessential businesses have had to close their doors temporarily. As a business owner, now might be a good time to give your business a facelift. With Varian Construction’s commercial remodeling services, we can assist with the design and completion of all project types so your business is looking its best when your employees and patrons can safely return. 

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.