The reason I decided to be a freelance designer? I wanted to offer more than just a few options to my clients and not cater to a specific demographic. Everyone should have a well designed kitchen or bath. Based on a good floor plan, the budget can be moderate or extravagant. In theory, shopping for remodeling is almost like shopping for a new car. You know the line and the models as soon as you walk into the showroom. There are the high priced (Cadillacs, Mercedes, Jaguars) or the moderate priced (Chevy's, Fords, Toyota's) or the less expensive (Hondai, Kia's, etc). Although in recent years there's been a blurring of the lines, the same can be said of cabinetry, bath and kitchen products and appliances. Most businesses can only provide a fixed number of selections because it's too cumbersome (financially and space wise) to offer the gamut of products available.

By freelancing I can access many lines and get to work either for the contractor or the homeowner directly. This allows me to choose the best fit for that client. After I draw up the plans with an eye to how their family functions then I can also help them with their product selections and oversee the project if they'd like. Some homeowners and contractors want me to do it all, while others use my space planning designs and continue from there on their own.

Built-in Tub with tall storage unit. Private commode thru arch on right. Shower seat on left.

Mosaic tile shower detail

New Walk-in Shower with glass divider

The Master Bath that is featured was a design I provided for a contractor's client. We met and took a "tour" of the existing bath and the homeowners relayed all their challenges with the outdated bath. They also told me about their dream of how they would like it to function. I measured the space, wrote notes about their desires and went to work at my office computer using a CAD (computer assisted drafting) program designed for just this purpose.

Before Vanity

Before Shower - Note the Header over the Shower

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step Up Tub Before

One of the prerequisites was not to move any of the plumbing. The sinks, shower, tub and commode had to remain in place to keep the budget realistic. The main change would be to update the finishes and modernize the entire look, add storage and do "something" with the shower! At our next meeting, we all met again and I presented 3 plans with a variety of options. By discussing the options, pros & cons, the homeowners made their choices and I redesigned the final plan. Because they were working with their contractor, who has his own suppliers, I was not involved on the actual construction on this project. However, the homeowners graciously invited me back to see "my bath". The change is spectacular and very inviting. They love the look and the best thing (according to the Mrs.) "it's so easy to keep clean!" 

Is a master bath or other renovation in your future? Call me and together we'll design the space of your dreams!