Design & Remodel

Design shows on TV often make remodeling look stress-free, quick and easy. But when homeowners try to take on a home renovation on their own, this almost always leads to a rude awakening. If you have some basic knowhow when it comes to home improvement, the average homeowner can often take on a small painting job, hanging some shelving, or maybe even changing out a light fixture.

But when it comes to a remodel or any kind of renovation, the task is best left to the professionals. And when it comes to hiring a professional, there are many out there but with vastly varying skill levels. Next, I’m going to go over some tips to find the best contractor for your job.

When interviewing or researching contractors, the first question to ask is “what all will my project involve?” Do you just need a roofer, or just a plumber, or will your project involve several trades? If you just need a single trade, start first by asking your friends and family for recommendations. It’s best to ask those you know and trust to give you an honest opinion of local pros they have used. If you can’t get a good recommendation from those you know, then go to a company or contractor’s website to see what reviews they have and get an idea of their work. You can also visit their social media sites to see reviews and posts. If your project involves several trades, you will need to find a general contractor.

In looking for a contractor, there are a few different types. A handyman is someone who can do smaller projects and does most, if not all, of the work him/herself. A handyman-type project is usually something like fixing a leak, repair work, or a minor update to a room. A general contractor typically does a lot of the work him/herself with a few helpers. A general contractor is licensed and can take on larger projects.

Another type of contractor is a design/build contractor. This type of contractor has a team that manages all aspects of your remodel from design plans to project completion. This option may cost more than just a basic general contractor, but it requires the least amount of effort and involvement from the homeowner and the company is typically much more structured and organized. A design-build firm works with clients to generate design plans and construction documents, so is the best option for larger projects or those where design is important.

The next question is for the contractor(s) you are considering, and that is “are you licensed and insured?” If they say “no,” then end the conversation right there. A home renovation or remodel is a major undertaking, and you want to eliminate as much risk as possible, meaning everyone working in your home should be insured and everything should be performed per code and inspected. If not, it puts you at risk of responsibility for any issues in the future and can cause major problems if you ever decide to

Sara Bagwell

Design & Remodel

nMORE INFO: tracytesmerremodeling.com sell your home.

The next tip for hiring a contractor is an important one, but often underrated. That is: How well do I think I will get along with this contractor? If you are about to emPHOTO: TRACY TESMER DESIGN/REMODELING bark on a major remodel For the remodeling results you want hire the proper contractor. project, you will be working with run smoothly and you will be way this person for the next four to less stressed. If there is no plan eight months or longer. Is this up-front and communication is someone you can trust and work lacking, then I can almost guaranwith for an extended period of tee the project will not turn out as time. We’ve all heard of someone you had envisioned, both in who had to fire their contractor process and in the final product. because of personal issues, and When hiring a contractor, listhen they’re left with an unfin- ten to those you trust and listen to ished project and scrambling to your gut. Make sure the person find someone else to finish it. you hire is a good fit for your Even for small projects, it’s im- specific project and is organized, portant to work with someone responsible, and easy to work you like and trust. with. These tips will help give

The final tip for hiring a con- you the best remodel experience tractor is: Planning and communi- possible. cation are KEY. Make sure you Sara Bagwell is a designer for find someone who abides by this Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodeling principle and your project will in Gainesville.

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By Pamela A. Keene

Like a string of pearls, the 12 communities along Coastal Mississippi’s 62 miles of shoreline can cast a spell. Its nickname “The Secret Coast” is well-deserved not only for its storied history, but also because it offers a low-key and more relaxing visit to the Gulf of Mexico than beaches along Florida’s Panhandle.

On a recent trip, I found out first-hand about off-bottom oysters, world-class museums, boutique lodging, natural wonders, farm-to-table dining, famous artists, community spirit and all the beauty that can be found throughout Coastal Mississippi.

It’s a short flight, but if you want to drive, the trip will take about 6 to 7 hours. If you’re driving, I-10 is not far inland and offers easy access to the seaside communities of Pascagoula, Ocean Springs, Biloxi, Gulfport, Long Beach, Pass Christian and Bay St. Louis. Each community offers its own personality.

String of destinations

One of the greatest features of Coastal Mississippi is the wonderful shoreline that runs parallel to the beach along the waterfront 4-lane US 90 with amazing views of the water. The area is branded “The Secret Coast” because of its string of undiscovered destinations that range from the Gulf Islands National Seashore and the Mississippi barrier islands to authentic coastal cultural experiences and a wide variety of beach environments.

Pass Christian – pronounced pass KRIS tee ann – and Long Beach offer relaxed and quieter beaches for sunbathing or a romantic walk. If you want to paddleboard or kayak, check out the water trails in the area’s rivers, including Wolf River or the Upper Pascagoula.

Sunsets along Coastal Mississippi are spectacular. The beaches run east to west with clear views of the western skies. Various piers, some with flocks of pelicans, gulls and other seabirds, plus palm trees and other coastal foliage offer silhouettes to photograph against the expansive views of pink, orange, purple and burgundy skies.

Consider chartering a boat for a fishing trip or to explore the coast. You can also bring your own boat. Or book a nature-based eco-tour for an afternoon. Biloxi is a blast

Biloxi is the area’s hub for entertainment, art and culture. Plan a visit to the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art that showcases not only the works of Mississippi master potter George Ohr, who lived from 1857 to 1918, but also an array of traveling exhibitions and special installations.

The museum is an architectural wonder with its four twostory pod galleries built of metal that look like large space-aged structures. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, these distinctive waterfront galleries exhibit Ohr’s works.

Biloxi is known for its casinos and resorts, including Palace Casino and Island View Casino that offers smoke-free gaming. And for those who want a taste of home with a view of the Gulf, check out Biloxi’s very own Margaritaville Resort and Family Entertainment Center. Opened in June 2016, the family-friendly resort has a 55,000-square-foot family entertainment center, with games and restaurants. The rooftop water playground for re-

Colorful fishing boats dock at Biloxi Small Craft Harbor.

Workers weigh their catch right at the docks.

Shrimp boats are moored not far from the shoreline.

Off-bottom oysters are featured at White Pillars Restaurant in Biloxi.

sort guests features a 450-foot Lazy River, waterslides and a lounge pool.

The personality and atmosphere in Ocean Springs to the east of Biloxi is a high point with a walkable downtown, several boutique hotels and revitalization projects that capitalize on the heydays of the mid-20th century while creating an active and vibrant sense of community.

Distinct accommodations

The Beatnik Hotel and The Roost, both developed Ted and Roxy Condrey, owners of Rain

The day starts early for shrimpers; hand-written signs tell the story.

Residential, offer distinct accommodations. Part of The Collective along Porter Avenue, The Beatnik recreates the feeling of the ’50s motel with a new twist. Four floating cabins feature modern amenities and furnishings plus some surprises, including individual unit private outdoor showers. The Collective is a revitalization project along Ocean Springs’ Porter Avenue, a former hot spot for motor courts.

The Roost Boutique Hotel has modern suites in the restored Porter House. Nestled among the tall, moss-draped oaks, it’s a luxurious way to relax that’s centrally located.

There’s no shortage of dining, from informal to fine dining choices. The area has attracted innovative chefs who have earned national recognition for their cuisine. Casual dining at places like Biloxi’s The Blind Tiger featuring its signature Royal Reds, and See Mississippi, page 51

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The Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art's pod-like galleries reflect the sunset.

Massive, twisted live oaks typify Coastal Mississippi, including this one at Brothers of the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Bay St Louis.

Ocean Spring’s Mosaic Tapas Bar are complimented by fine dining at the well-known White Pillars in Biloxi and Vestige and Charred in downtown Ocean Springs. These are local favorites that cook up Gulf-fresh seafood, steaks, oysters, and much more.

No matter why or when you head to Coastal Mississippi, be sure to expand your horizons by taking the drive along the coast and spending time in each of the seaside communities there. And be sure to speak to the locals, who are friendly and more than happy to share their stories of The Secret Coast.

A large angel, carved into the trunk of a tree killed in a hurricane, graces St. Marys Cemetery in Bay St. Louis.

For more information, visit coastalmississippi.com.

PHOTOS BY PAMELA A KEENE

Stunning coastal sunsets are an evening highlight.

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