420 RENO… What’s the Big Deal About Studs?

Have you ever owned a Stud Finder? A handy little tool that many women wish it would work on men instead walls. The reason for having a Stud Finder is so that you can find where the studs are when hanging something heavy. You can also just knock on the walls until you hear a more… Continue reading 420 RENO… What’s the Big Deal About Studs?

What Should You Know BEFORE Starting a Project?

BEFORE  you start construction, it is important to know what you are in for. This usually results in lengthly conversations with your contractor. If you are still interviewing or if you are finalizing the contract these are important steps to take: 1) Make a list of your expectations and sit down with your contractor to see if… Continue reading What Should You Know BEFORE Starting a Project?

420 RENO…Why Would Anyone Renovate in the Winter?

Seriously! Why would anyone renovate in the winter in New England? With about 38″ of snow, we have our challenges – often the crew not being able to get to the site or the dumpster getting stuck in the snow. Again, time is money. But, the market is good here and that means that contractors are… Continue reading 420 RENO…Why Would Anyone Renovate in the Winter?

420 RENO… What to Expect When You Are NOT Expecting

Have you ever considered doing a renovation to your home? Well, you are not alone. But before you jump into it, be aware… there are many hidden secrets in your house – especially if you have an old house! The demo in our house lasted about 2 weeks. That is two solid weeks of horsehair… Continue reading 420 RENO… What to Expect When You Are NOT Expecting

How to design a Powder Room

Where is your Powder Room? Powder Rooms are bathrooms that typically do not have a place to bathe. Powder rooms can be small and efficient as well as a place to showcase items such as light fixtures and mirrors. Introduce a bold color on one or several walls to liven up a small powder room. Entertain your guests by… Continue reading How to design a Powder Room

420 RENO… intro

Yep, it’s official, I’m under construction. As a designer, I pretty much always have a project going. Secretly, I fear for what will follow this project so I’m trying to stay focused on the present. How about a bit of background to the current stage.  Five years ago, I moved to 420 Richards Ave. in Portsmouth, NH… Continue reading 420 RENO… intro

Why do you need a Site Plan?

Do you have a site plan of your property? If you haven’t had one professionally done, have you sketched something out? The purpose of a site plan is to communicate what you want or need to happen with your property. Typically, a formal site plan is done by a civil engineer. The plans include  roads,… Continue reading Why do you need a Site Plan?

3 Great Local Resources & Hints

When you are under a renovation, there are a plethora of decisions to be made! You don’t have the time or energy to do the shopping between resources. Here are my three great finds and resources that I would love to share with you: Plumbing: FW Webb in Dover, NH (Melanie is amazing) they will… Continue reading 3 Great Local Resources & Hints

Is it Granite or Soapstone?

Are you looking for the perfect countertop solution? This is the journey that my client and I went on with her countertop… My client was looking for a granite that was soft in color but rich in dimension, had a nice “hand” and low maintenance. After much research and searching we determined that Costa Smerelda was… Continue reading Is it Granite or Soapstone?