ASK THE EXPERT
architecture interiors landscape project coordination
613-727-5119
Gerhard Linse, chief designer and president of Gerhard Linse Design Inc.
gerhardesign.com
Q
We are about to undertake a major renovation and addition to our home. How can we ensure it goes smoothly?
A
from concept to completion
Gerhard Linse Design Inc. 42 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2014
award winning contemporary and classic residential design
Plan ahead. Hire people with experience and the right skill sets. Establish a realistic budget. Planning ahead means taking the time to have a clear understanding of what you want. Do some research to get ideas about what you want included in the renovation. Talk to people who have been through the process so you have a better sense of what to expect. Many people begin six months to a year before the actual start of the renovation. Assembling a strong support team is important. The design professional is usually the first to be involved. You will be working with the designer throughout the process, so choose one with experience and a strong track record in renovations who listens to your ideas. While you may have a good idea of what you want the end product to look like, a designer can help you get there and turn your dreams into reality. Set a realistic budget. Often clients have a long wish list. We work with them to assess what is realistic and go through their ideas to determine what are the “must have” versus the “nice to have” ideas. Then we develop the best design that fits the budget and help them find a solid, quality renovator who can work within that budget. Contact Gerhard, gl@gerhardesign.com