DESIGN BLOG

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2025 Home Design Trends: Remodeling Your Central Ohio Home with Style and Functionality 

As we step into 2025, home remodeling trends continue to evolve, blending innovative ideas with timeless elegance. Whether you’re refreshing your Columbus, OH home or planning a complete overhaul, staying ahead of the trends can help you create a space that’s both stylish and practical. At Residential Designed Solutions, we specialize in crafting unique, functional homes, and are excited to share the top remodeling trends for the upcoming year. 

This year, we see three key areas, driving design inspiration: outdoor spaces, functional indoor additions, and upgraded finishes and fixtures.
 

Enhancing Outdoor Spaces: The Ultimate Retreat 

In 2025, outdoor spaces remain a priority as homeowners extend their living areas to create serene, functional retreats. Key trends include: 

  • All-Season Outdoor Rooms 
    Covered patios and three-season rooms equipped with retractable screens and weatherproof furniture are in high demand. Even adding just a pergola can make a significant difference. Weatherproof furniture, outdoor fireplaces, and heaters ensure these spaces remain comfortable most of the year, allowing homeowners to enjoy the outdoors as long as possible.

  • Sustainable Landscaping 
    Eco-friendly landscapes featuring native plants, rain gardens, and permeable pavers are growing in popularity. These designs not only enhance curb appeal but also promote environmental sustainability.

  • Smart Outdoor Lighting 
    Motion-sensor lights, illuminated walkways, and color-changing LEDs combine safety with ambiance. These lighting solutions are perfect for welcoming people to your home and enhancing the curb appeal.

 

Adding Functional Spaces Inside the Home 

As lifestyles evolve, so does the need for versatile, purposeful indoor spaces. The top trends include: 

  • Wellness Rooms 
    From yoga studios to meditation spaces, wellness rooms are a sought-after addition. These spaces often feature calming color palettes, natural materials, and advanced air purification systems to promote health and tranquility. 

  • Dedicated Home Offices 
    With remote work a long-term norm for many people, personalized and efficient home offices are essential. Built-in desks, soundproofing, and integrated technology create productive and comfortable workspaces. 

  • Multi-Generational Living Spaces 
    Accommodating extended family members with in-law suites, guest apartments, or multi-functional spaces is increasingly popular. These areas often include private bathrooms and kitchenettes to offer independence while maintaining connections. 


Trending Finishes and Fixtures for 2025 

Finishes and fixtures bring together functionality and aesthetics, and this year’s trends offer exciting possibilities:

  • Natural Materials 
    Expect a focus on artisanal elements like stone, reclaimed wood, and metal finishes. From marble countertops to brass fixtures, these materials add organic warmth to interiors.

  • Bold Color Palettes 
    Earth tones such as terracotta, olive green, and deep navy dominate, providing a modern yet grounded aesthetic. These rich hues pair beautifully with natural textures and sleek, contemporary lines. 

  • Smart Fixtures 
    Technology continues to revolutionize home design with touchless faucets, app-controlled lighting, and energy-efficient appliances. Water-saving plumbing features and advanced smart home integrations are becoming standard. 

Transform Your Home with Residential Designed Solutions

Whether you’re dreaming of an enhanced outdoor retreat, functional new spaces, or stylish finishes, 2025 is brimming with opportunities to elevate your home’s design. At Residential Designed Solutions in Worthington, Ohio, we stay ahead of the home design trends to offer innovative, personalized solutions tailored to your needs. 

 

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact us today to start planning your dream home remodel. Together, we’ll create a beautiful, functional home you’ll love for years to come. 

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What’s the Difference Between a Residential Designer and an Architect?

When planning a home renovation or building a new house, one of the key decisions homeowners must make is whether to hire a residential designer or an architect. Both professionals are vital in turning your dream home into a reality, but they bring different skills and perspectives to the table. Understanding these differences, as well as their similarities, will help you make the best choice for your project.


Architect: The Structural Visionary

An architect is a licensed professional who has undergone extensive education and training. They are well-versed in both the aesthetic and technical aspects of building design, ensuring overall structural integrity and compliance of a building project.

Key Points:

  • Education & Licensing: Architects typically hold a degree in architecture and must complete a lengthy internship and pass a series of exams to become licensed.

  • Scope of Work: Architects handle complex structural issues, ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations. Their expertise extends to both residential and commercial buildings.

  • Best Suited For: Large, complex projects requiring structural innovation, such as adding a second story, reconfiguring the floorplan entirely, or designing a large building.


Residential Designer: The Home Specialist

A residential designer focuses specifically on designing living spaces. While they might not have the same formal education as architects, they bring a deep understanding of home functionality, aesthetics, and comfort.

Key Points:

  • Education & Licensing: Residential designers often have degrees in interior design, drafting, or related fields, but they are not required to be licensed like architects. Certified professional building designers have undergone rigorous testing in home design. 

  • Scope of Work: Residential designers specialize in designing the interiors and exteriors of homes. They excel at optimizing floor plans and ensuring spaces are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and tailored to the homeowner's lifestyle. Many residential designers are skilled in creating homes from the ground up.

  • Best Suited For: Projects focusing on remodeling or updating a home’s layout without major structural changes, homeowners looking for a design professional with a strong sense of style, and budget-conscious projects where detailed architectural services may not be necessary. However, many residential designers are also capable of handling significant major structural changes.

 

Similarities Between Architects and Residential Designers 

Despite their differences, residential designers and architects share some common ground:

  • Design Expertise: Both are skilled in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces, considering the homeowner's needs, lifestyle, and budget when designing.

  • Collaboration: Both professionals often work closely with contractors, engineers, and other specialists to ensure a seamless execution of the design.

  • Knowledge: Both architects and residential designers possess a thorough understanding of regulations and codes in regards to building design.

 

Why Choose a Residential Designer?

For many homeowners, a residential designer is an excellent choice, especially for projects that don’t require major structural changes. Here’s why:

  • Specialized Knowledge: Residential designers bring a deep understanding of how to create homes that are both beautiful and functional. They excel in optimizing spaces for everyday living, ensuring that your home not only looks good but works well for your lifestyle.

  • Cost-Effective: Since residential designers typically don’t need the same level of formal education and licensing as architects, their services can be more affordable.

  • Personalized Service: Residential designers often work closely with homeowners, providing a high level of personalized service. They listen to your needs, preferences, and ideas, ensuring that the final design reflects your vision.

 

The Plan Drawer

Did you know that we have a wide range of pre-designed home plans available for purchase and customization called The Plan Drawer? The home plans housed on this website aren’t designed for a specific client drawn by us and others we work. This vast knowledge provides clients with the opportunity to go online and purchase a plan that they love. Then we will tweak it to meet your exact needs and building code requirements. We’ll also add in the plumbing, HVAC, and electrical plans. We know that sometimes starting from absolute scratch might be more than you want to do and finding an existing pre-designed plan that we can tailor to your needs might just be the answer. Learn more about The Plan Drawer here.

 


Both architects and residential designers play vital roles in home design, catering to different needs and project types. If your project involves complex structural changes or requires a high level of technical expertise, an architect might be the best choice. However, if you’re looking to remodel or design a home that perfectly suits your lifestyle and taste, a residential designer could be the ideal partner for your project.

Our team at RDS has a combined (number) years experience and has been helping clients in the Columbus, Ohio area for (number) years. As your dedicated team of residential designers, we’re ready to bring your dream home to life.

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The Psychology of Kitchens: Design Tips, Key Organization Hacks, and Essential Appliances

A kitchen is more than just a functional space; it is where we gather, cook, and connect. As a designer or architect, understanding the psychology behind kitchen design can significantly enhance its functionality and appeal. Here are some key design tips, organization hacks, and must-have appliances to consider when designing or updating your kitchen.

Create a Harmonious Space Through Design

Custom cabinetry

  • Flow and Functionality: Design your kitchen with a logical and strategic workflow in mind. While the classic work triangle is still a valuable guideline, modern kitchens often benefit from a ‘work zone’ approach, where appliances and prep areas are clustered together. Place your island strategically, creating a central hub for cooking, dining, and socializing.

  • Lighting Matters: Good lighting is crucial. Combine task lighting (under-cabinet lights) with ambient lighting (overhead fixtures) to illuminate work areas and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Don’t forget about accent lighting for highlighting architectural features, pantries, beautiful countertops, or artwork.

  • Color Psychology: Colors impact mood. Soft neutrals like greys, whites, and beiges create a calm, spacious feel, while deep blues or greens add personality and energy. Reds, oranges, and yellows can stimulate appetite and conversation. Choose a color palette that reflects the desired mood and complements your overall design.

  • Personal Touches and Decor: Incorporate elements that reflect your family’s personality. Custom cabinetry, unique backsplashes, or open shelving to display favorite dishes, greenery, glassware, and family photos make the kitchen feel more personalized and engaging.

Organization Hacks to Maximize Efficiency and Space

  • Pull-Out Cabinets and Drawers: These maximize accessibility and reduce the need to dig through clutter. Incorporate pull-out shelves (to access items in the back of a cabinet), revolving trays, and drawer dividers to keep essentials in place and organized.

  • Vertical Storage: Utilize vertical space to maximize storage capacity. Consider installing overhead cabinets, wall-mounted pot racks, and magnetic strips for knives. For smaller items, use stackable containers and drawer organizers.

  • Multi-Functional Furniture: Consider items like an island with built-in storage or a breakfast bar that doubles as a workspace. Rolling carts or corner cabinets can provide additional storage and work surfaces. Enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal really elevates your kitchen.

  • Labeling: Clear labels on jars, containers, and drawers can help maintain organization, especially in a busy household. It also makes it easier for guests to navigate your kitchen.

  • Smart Technology Integration: Incorporate smart home technology for seamless management. Smart refrigerators with inventory tracking, touchless faucets, and programmable lighting systems can enhance convenience and efficiency.

Appliances That Enhance Kitchen Efficiency

High-efficiency appliances

  • High-Efficiency Appliances: Energy-efficient appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, and ovens can be a worthwhile investment. They not only reduce utility bills but also contribute to a more sustainable kitchen environment.

  • Smart Appliances: Modern kitchens are increasingly incorporating smart technology. For example, a smart refrigerator can track inventory, suggest recipes based on available ingredients, and even order groceries. Smart ovens can preheat automatically, monitor cooking progress, and even probe for doneness.

  • Quiet Dishwashers: A quiet dishwasher can significantly improve the ambiance of your kitchen, especially in open-concept homes where noise can easily travel.

  • Compact and Multi-Use Appliances: In smaller kitchens, multi-functional appliances like a combination microwave-convection oven or a compact coffee maker with a grinder can save space and add versatility. Appliances like a multi-cooker or an air fryer can save counter space and offer a variety of cooking options.

  • Water Filtration Systems: A water filtration system can improve the taste and quality of your drinking water. It can also reduce the need for bottled water, which is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective

Designing a kitchen that balances aesthetics with functionality involves understanding the psychological impact of color, layout, and organization. By focusing on thoughtful design, effective organization, and smart appliance choices, you can craft kitchens that are not only beautiful but also functional and enjoyable. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet morning coffee, the right kitchen design can make all the difference. Our designers at Residential Designed Solutions in Columbus, Ohio understand the psychology behind kitchen design and are here to help you.

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RDS Welcomes Julianne Grove

We are thrilled to welcome Julianne Grove to the RDS team! Julianne graduated from Thomas Jefferson University with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. She brings a competitive spirit and a diverse work history, including roles as a summer intern at Chris Dawson Architect, a carpentry assistant at Musser Farm Woodworks, a counselor & activities coordinator at Camp Joy El, and even a sandwich artist at Subway. Since she might be someone you meet with or collaborate with in our office, we want to introduce her to you.

Julianne is responsible for Project Detail, focusing on drafting designs for home additions and remodels. Her strong work ethic and dedication, combined with a drive to learn and create, make her a perfect fit for our team.

Julianne will tell you her friends describe her as funny, adventurous, and joyful. Those are three perfect synonyms to describe her. Here are two interesting facts about Julianne: she has a birthmark in her eye and she is highly competitive. In 5th grade, she competed in a contest to design the school yearbook cover, despite facing tough competition from other talented artists. Her favorite quote, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take,” by Wayne Gretzky (popularized by Michael Scott), reflects her approach to life and work.

Julianne is passionate about serving clients and helping turn their ideas into reality. We are excited to have her on board and are confident you’ll enjoy working with her!

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Unlock Your Home's Hidden Potential: Transforming Underutilized Spaces

Is your home feeling cramped? Are you ready for a home office, a playroom for the kids, an additional bedroom, or a serene relaxation space? The good news is you might not need to expand your home’s footprint to create the extra room you desire. Your ideal space could be hiding in plain sight. By creatively transforming underutilized spaces like attics, garages, and basements, you can significantly enhance your home's functionality and enjoyment.

As a leading home designer in Columbus, Ohio, our RDS team excels at turning forgotten corners into spaces your family will love.


Attics: From Dusty Storage to Cozy Retreats

Attics are often overlooked as mere storage spaces, but they can be transformed into valuable living spaces. With proper insulation, ventilation, and structural reinforcement, attics can become charming bedrooms, productive home offices, functional bathrooms, or vibrant playrooms.

  • Key considerations:

    • Slope of the roof: The proper ceiling height is adequate for standing comfortably.

    • Windows: Adding skylights or dormer windows will increase the natural light.

    • Structural integrity: Confirm that the attic floor can support the weight of people and furniture.

    • Heating and cooling: Invest in efficient systems to maintain a comfortable temperature and address any moisture issues.

Garages: More Than Just Car Storage

While garages are essential for protecting cars, they often have unused space. With a little creativity and planning, you can convert part of your garage into a home gym, a hobby workshop, or even a guest suite.

  • Key considerations:

    • Climate control: Confirm the garage can be properly heated and cooled for year-round comfort.

    • Noise insulation: Soundproofing to minimize street noise if the space will be used for living.

    • Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential, especially if you’re using paint or chemicals.

    • Permits: Verify local regulations regarding garage conversions.

Basements: Unlocking Your Lower Level

Basements are often underutilized, but they offer significant potential for additional living space. Whether you're dreaming of a home gym, media room, guest suite, wine cellar, or playroom, your basement could be the perfect space you didn’t know you needed.

  • Key considerations:

    • Moisture control: Correct any dampness or water issues before starting renovations.

    • Natural light: Incorporate large windows or enhance artificial lighting to brighten the space.

    • Ceiling height: Provide sufficient headroom for comfort; adjust heating/cooling ductwork as needed.

    • Egress windows: Creating a bedroom or living space in the basement might involve adding egress windows for safety. This is determined by the building codes for your city.

Other Spaces to Consider

Don't limit your imagination to just attics, garages, and basements. Even smaller spaces like under-stair closets, hallways, and unused spaces offer exciting possibilities.

  • Under-stair closets: Transform these into compact home offices, pantries, book nooks, homework areas, or mudrooms.

  • Hallways: Turn large hallways into drop zones, display shelves, or a small reading nook.

  • Unused nooks: Create mini home libraries, homework areas, or cozy reading corners.

Professional Guidance

While DIY projects can be fulfilling, complex conversions often benefit from professional expertise. An architect or designer, like our team at RDS, can help you maximize your space, ensure structural integrity, and create a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Remember, transforming an existing space is not just about adding square footage; it's about creating a space that enhances your family's lifestyle. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and the unique characteristics of your home, you can unlock its full potential and create a space you'll love for years to come.

Interested in focusing on a specific space or discussing a particular design challenge? Our residential architects in Columbus, Ohio, can craft exceptional designs that will be brought to life by our expert remodelers or a contractor of your choice. Let us help you turn your vision into reality.  

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Transforming Your Home: Kitchen and Living Area Remodeling Ideas

We all know the feeling: your home starts to feel overlooked. Those once-beloved spaces now blend into the background or no longer meet your family’s needs. But moving isn’t the only option. Remodeling your kitchen and living areas can breathe new life into your home, making it perfectly tailored to your current lifestyle. Whether you are considering a full-scale renovation or a subtle update, the kitchen and living areas are one of the most requested transformations we design for our clients.


Reimagining your Kitchen:

The kitchen stands as the heart of the home. Creating a kitchen that is beautiful and functional can be done as a total remodel or a strategic update. 

  • Smart layouts: Efficiency is paramount. Evaluate your kitchen’s layout; does it hinder your workflow? Consider opening the floorplan to seamlessly connect with the living area. Structural adjustments can yield a spacious, inviting atmosphere. Islands with integrated storage, prep spaces, and room for appliances become central to the kitchen’s functionality.

  • Cabinet Considerations: Cabinets define the kitchen’s aesthetic. While traditional wood is timeless, explore sleek lacquer finishes, textured laminates, bamboo, recycled glass, stainless steel, or painted cabinets for a distinctive look.

  • Open Shelves: These are continually popular for their ability to showcase favorite items, from dishes to decor. Accent lighting can enhance their airy appeal. 

  • Countertops: Quartz continues to have its moment, with good reason. This non-porous and durable option is available in a myriad of colors and patterns. Consider granite, stainless steel, butcher block, marble, concrete, or solid surfaces for a wider variety.

  • Embrace Multifunctionality: Today’s kitchen serves as more than a cooking space—it’s a hub for homework or science experiments, a workstation for managing the household, and casual dining. Incorporate a desk, a breakfast nook with banquette seating, and smart technology.

  

Create a Relaxing Living Room:

The living area is where memories are made, and relaxation reigns. Transform it into a space you don’t want to leave.

  • Multi-Functional: Define zones with furniture—a reading nook, movie area, and cozy discussion space. Furniture with hidden storage is a place to keep games and blankets, an ottoman allows movement to a different zone, and built-ins can be customized for whatever you want to store and have readily available.

  • Natural Light: Enhance mood and ambiance with additional windows, skylights, or even a sunroom for expansive light and space.   

  • Open a Wall: Knock down some walls to create the seamless flow between the kitchen and living area. Entertaining will be easier and sight lines magically appear, keeping those kiddos in your sightline.

  • Incorporate Nature: As you are creating and finalizing design decisions, take a moment to think about indoor plants. Where can you place some in your living room? Studies show plants in reduces stress and improves our moods. Go bold and create a living wall for a maximum effect. Check out our blog—The Benefits of Indoor Plants.

  • Smart Technology: Integrating smart lighting allows for adjustments to your mood or the time of day. A hidden projector screen makes movie night more special. Invisible speakers create an immersive sound experience.

  • Layered Lighting: Combine overhead lighting with ambient lighting—lamps, sconces, and pendant lights for a cozy atmosphere.


Your home reflects you. Transform your kitchen and living areas into spaces that not only meet but exceed your expectations, creating a home that is both inspiring and functional. Let your home tell your story thorough thoughtful design and personalized touches that enhance your daily living. Experiment with textures, colors, and materials that resonate with your style and needs.

At RDS, we offer residential design services and our team listens closely to understand your vision and tailors our approach to bring your home plan to life. Call us at 614-430-0027 to embark on your remodeling journey today.

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Big Night, Bigger Achievements!

The BIA Annual “Big Night” Awards was recently held, and we’re proud to announced we received two awards! While accolades aren't our sole focus, seeing our innovative designs recognized by such esteemed talent in the Columbus, OH area truly humbles us. After all, alongside our incredible builder partners, our passion lies in crafting exceptional spaces for our clients.

The BIA Annual “Big Night” Awards was recently held, and we’re proud to announced we received two awards! While accolades aren't our sole focus, seeing our innovative designs recognized by such esteemed talent in the Columbus, OH area truly humbles us. After all, alongside our incredible builder partners, our passion lies in crafting exceptional spaces for our clients.

Here's a toast to our winning projects:

Best Outdoor Living Space: "The Room Out Back" - This Delaware, OH oasis, built by Dave Osmond Builders, truly extends the living space, offering the perfect spot for relaxation and nature connection. (Big thanks to Kylie Osmond for capturing its beauty in photos!)

Best Architectural Design of a New Home Priced $750,000 and Up: "Rustic Dutch Farmhouse" - Jimenez Haid Custom Builders brought this stunning farmhouse to life in The Reserve at Tartan Fields, Dublin, OH.

 Dreaming of Your Own Award-Winning Space?

Whether you're considering a remodel, building a new home, or simply sketching out your dream plan, our Residential Designed Solutions team is here to help! Give us a call at 614-430-0027 and let's turn your vision into reality.

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“The Room Out Back”

This stunning addition, designed by our team and built by Dave Osmond Builders, seamlessly expands our clients' French Country home's outdoor living space. Two decades after crafting their dream home, we were thrilled to work with our clients again on this new chapter.

“The Room Out Back”, as it came to be known, has become quite the talk of the town. It has won the Local and Regional NARI CotY awards, as well as a BIA Annual Big Night award.

Photography by Kylie Osmond

A Vision Realized, Together

This stunning addition, designed by our team and built by Dave Osmond Builders, seamlessly expands our clients' French Country home's outdoor living space. Two decades after crafting their dream home, we were thrilled to work with our clients again on this new chapter.

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Imagine this: A charming, separate pavilion awaits, accessible by a picturesque, paved walkway. Envision a place for effortless entertaining, quiet relaxation with a good book,  all while surrounded by nature's beauty. Retractable screens ensure year-round comfort, while heat extends the season's embrace. A wood-burning fireplace adds warmth and ambiance, while electrical access allows for lighting, fans, and even smart speakers. The design echoes the original home, creating a cohesive feel as if both were built together.

Bringing Dreams to Life

As showcased in the photos, we, alongside Dave Osmond Builders, successfully translated our clients' desires into this captivating reality. It's easy to imagine the countless moments of joy and relaxation happening within "The Room Out Back.

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Ready to Create Your Own Outdoor Escape?

Whether you dream of a backyard oasis like "The Room Out Back" or envision a different outdoor haven, our Residential Designed Solutions team possesses the expertise to bring your vision to life. Let's collaborate! Call us at 614-430-0027 and get started on your personalized outdoor escape.

Photography by Kylie Osmond

Photography by Kylie Osmond

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5 Things to Think About When Planning to Stay in Your Home Forever

Is Your Home Forever-Ready?

Your home—it’s your sanctuary. Maybe it’s the first home you’ve bought, a home you want to renovate, or a plan for a new build. One of the biggest decisions you might make is to live in this home forever. Thinking about your current and future needs is a big piece of this puzzle—can your current or planned new build be your forever home?

We’ve had this very discussion at Residential Designed Solutions with some of our clients. Our designers can discuss what needs to happen for you to be able to age in place. It might involve renovations or if it is a new build, it will require a plan for your future needs.

5 Things to Think About if You Want to Stay in Your Home Forever  (Or Age in Place)

Image by Drazen Zigic on Freepik

Current and Future Needs

How are you living now and how do you anticipate this to change over time?

  • If you have small children with their own bedrooms and play area, how can these be reimagined in the future?

  • Where is your primary bedroom? If it is on the second floor, is there room for it to be on the first floor in the future?

  • Aging in place usually requires wider doorways for wheelchairs.

  • Will your parents move into your home? Can it accommodate their needs?

Layout and Available Space

Especially with a new build, designing a forever home with a seamless layout and available space is an important part of the design plan. If remodeling, having a designer create a better layout and finding space is vital to staying in the home.

  • Do you want or need separate spaces or an open floor plan? Thinking about this now can help you anticipate how you want to move around your home in the future.

  • Available space can be as simple as creating storage in “dead zones” of an older or smaller home. Can a room be reconfigured for storage, a home office, or first floor laundry?

Main Floor Living

Ranch home with finished lower level built in Columbus, OH by Jimenez Haid Custom Builders

A two-story home is a great way to have more square footage and works well when you are raising a family. A primary bedroom is upstairs near the kids’ rooms, the bedrooms are not visible to most people, and the upstairs loft is a perfect playroom. But as you age and stairs become an issue, what can you do?

  • Design a new home with all the main amenities (bedroom, laundry, kitchen, living room, and bathroom) on the main level. A main level bedroom can be a guest suite or bonus room while you are younger.

  • If you renovate, can a dining room or another space become a primary bedroom? Is there a place for laundry and a bathroom? This sometimes becomes the biggest reason you can’t stay in your home, if it can’t be reconfigured to accommodate your needs.

  • Is there a way to add a stair lift or elevator?

Bathroom Accessibility

Let’s be real—the bathroom that is accessible and safe really matters as we age. This is one of the main reasons people remodel their bathrooms as they get older.

Zero threshold shower
  • A raised toilet seat or comfort height toilet makes it easier to stand and sit.

  • A walk-in shower eliminates tripping or falling. A handheld shower sprayer and a seat are important if you have mobility issues.

  • Installing grab bars in the future allows for stability in the shower and by the toilet.

  • A narrow toilet room could be a problem if someone is using a wheelchair, mobility scooter, or a walker. Eliminate a separate toilet room in the design and create space around the toilet.
     

Smart Home Technology

Integrating smart home features adds to the comfort and convenience of your home. But beyond that, think how smart it is to invest in systems that are easily controlled and automated, such as:

Smart Thermostat
  • Thermostats

  • Smart lighting

  • Security systems

  • Television and music systems

  • Smart appliances

At the touch of your phone or a voice command you have control over many aspects in your home.

What Can a Home Designer Do For you?

We help you create your forever home to meet your needs now and for the future.

  • A custom floor plan that is tailored to your lifestyle.

  • Universal design features and aging in place modifications such as wider doorways and hallways, walk-in showers, and accessibility features.

  • Spaces that are multifunctional and change as your needs change.

  • Built-in storage that saves space and keeps you organized.

 

Potential future changes are an important design element in a new build that you might not have thought of. Renovating your current home to allow you to live there is usually a design our home designers can make work. We love a good challenge! Read this blog about a home we made more accessible for our client. By prioritizing accessibility, addressing the layout, creating first floor living, providing an accessible bathroom, and adding smart technology, our home designers at Residential Designed Solutions will create a home that meets your needs today and evolves with you for a lifetime of living. Contact us to get started today! Call 614.430.0027 or fill out our contact form here.

 

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How to Make a Home Design Plan Stress-Free and Efficient

Building or redesigning a home is exciting, but it can also be a bit stressful. Whether you are planning a new build or renovating your current home, collaborating with a home designer alleviates stress and streamlines the process. At Residential Designed Solutions, our home designers work with you to establish effective communication and create a clear vision for your home plan. With these preplanning questions, thoughts, and proper planning, a strong foundation leads to a perfect home design.

 

Preplanning Questions/Thoughts to Discuss with Your Home Designer 

  • Define Your Wants and Needs

    Before your first meeting, take time to write down your wants and needs. How do you want the spaces to function, what style do you want for your home, and what specific features do you want? What are your must-haves and deal-breakers? Creating this list is a starting blueprint for your discussions when you meet with us and equips us to make the perfect design. 

  • Budget

    Discuss your budget with your designer. Be upfront with your budget constraints. This way we can offer suggestions to align with your financial plan and keep the project on the targeted budget.

  • Your Inspiration

    Bring it all to your first meeting. Your Pinterest boards, sketches, images from home design magazines or websites, are all a springboard to guide our conversations. Sharing your design preferences and style inspirations helps us understand your aesthetic taste and tailor your design plan.

  • Considerations for your Lifestyle

    Do you love to entertain? Is movie night a big deal? Do you have kids that need their own space to play with friends? Are you a multigenerational family? Understanding your lifestyle, habits and any specific current or future needs will all influence the design and adaptability of your home.

  • Collaborate and Communicate

    Ask how communication will be handled throughout the process. Clarify how often you will be updated, your preferred method of communication, and how decisions will be made. Having an effective communication plan is instrumental to avoid misunderstandings. A smooth process is the goal for our team when creating home design plans.

  • Timeline

    Work with your designer to create a realistic timeline. Be flexible as there are always variables at play that can affect the timeline. But know that a well-structured plan with designated check-ins can ensure the progression of the plan with limited adjustments to the timeline. Knowing the projected timeline keeps everyone on the same page and prevents unnecessary stress.

Collaborating with a home designer should be enjoyable, satisfying and rewarding. A home design is a big endeavor, and quite possibly, one of the biggest decisions of your life. Taking the time to preplan and ask the right questions lays the proper groundwork for a partnership with your designer. With clear communication, clear goals, and a great attitude, our RDS home designers can transform your dream into reality.

 

Call us at 614-430-0027.

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