First Steps: Preparations

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CONGRATULATIONS!

THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO CREATE AND ELATE YOURSELF WITH MANY NEW POSSIBILITIES!

Sooo . . . the time has come to make the change, huh? Many people are simply in search of a fresh new look that no longer makes them feel like they're stuck in a 1950's or 60's television show. What about you? Maybe your home's layout isn't as functional as it once was, now that you've expanded your family or have accessibility needs that require some rerouting. Who knows, it could be that you're ready to put all of the home-building ideas that you've accumulated over the years, into action by building your own home from foundation to rooftop. Whether it be a remodel, an addition to your home or a brand new custom home, here are the first 5 steps you should take to get you going in the right direction.

How It Works

Step 1

Write a list of all your needs and wants. Don't hold back. You can always scale down as you discover what's possible during the design phase.

For example:

Turn the lanai into your new home office.
Add on a bedroom for overnight guests.
Add a 2nd floor master bedroom.
What's that? You want to vault the ceiling?
Finally build the mother of all man-caves!
Are you with me here? There are so many possibilities, and inspiration is all around.

Step 2

Feel free to view some of our projects on Houzz for design inspiration by going to arcdesign7.com.

Now, list the important details of what
features you want in the project area(s).

For example:

In a new Laundry: Sink, W/D, Folding Table, hanging rack, built-in ironing, cabinets for storage, etc.

Master Bath: Double sink, large walk-in shower, toilet room, linen closet, etc.

Step 3

Collect images from the internet and magazines and even take some of your own photos should you find real-life design inspiration wherever you happen to be. Houzz.com has a never-ending supply of design idea photos.

Make notes about what you like in each photo to ensure the designer understands what you want.

Here are more terrific design resources:
Architectural Digest
Home & Design (.net)
Home & Design (.com)
Dwell
Architectural Record

Step 4

You've made some great design choices for your home. Now you're ready to set up a time to meet with your Home Designer to help you bring all of your ideas together in a preliminary design drawing.

If you are creating a new home anywhere in Florida, ArcDesign can help. For additions and structural remodels, we focus our services on Pinellas, West Pasco, and Western Hillsborough Counties.If you live beyond our reach then we advise you to do a local "Find a Pro" search on Houzz.com.

Also, check out our report on How to interview a Home Designer or Architect.

Step 5

So now it's time to see if your project and ArcDesign are a great fit.

Just give us a call at 727.446.8022 or email us at office@arcdesign7.com to set up your free 1-hour consultation.

For new home builds, at this time, phone and live video consultation works best.

Be prepared for your appointment with the ideas, notes, and inspiration you've collected along the way. You may send your collection to the email above.Click the button below to learn what's next.

Next Steps: Design