Accelerated Tempe Building Permits
The City of Tempe offers an accelerated process to obtain building permits for minor remodels.
Obtaining approved building permit in Tempe has been put on a “fast track” for those who are planning for minor commercial tenant improvement for your business OR for a minor home renovation. These special programs will significantly shorten the plan review and building permit approval process.
City of Tempe Building Permits
Over The Counter Plan Review
If you meet the following criteria and have a form of payment with you, you may be eligible for an Over the Counter Permit. The Building Permit may be processed while you wait, depending on the complexity of the project. Plan check and building permit fees vary depending upon the type of work being done and the valuation.
- Minor residential additions not exceeding $10,000.00 valuation, patio covers, interior remodels, detached accessory structures, carport to garage conversions, covered patio to livable, and mobile home permits.
- Residential Fire Damage Repairs under 50% damage if the Fire Damage Report is available.
- Counter plan review may be provided for commercial Tenant Improvements (TIs) given the following situations:
- Under 3,000 sq. ft. for Business Offices (no medical offices)
- Under 1,500 sq. ft. for Mercantile space
- Under 15,000 sq. ft. for storage of Low Hazard Storage less than 12’ in height.
- Fire Damage “ Restore to Original” with no structural requirements
- Depending upon the complexity of the work to be constructed, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) plans for any tenant space under a, b, or c above.
- All other Occupancies—Multi-Family Residential, Medical Office, Assembly, Educational, Factory or Manufacturing, Hazardous, and Institutional Occupancies will require submittal.
3. A counter plan review will NOT be provided when any of the following conditions exist:
- A Notice to Comply has been issued for Construction Without Permits
- A Change of Occupancy or revision of required exiting will occur upon completion of construction
- A Use Permit, Parking Variance, etc. is required from Planning
- Changes to the exterior of the building which will require Planning approval, including roof top changes that add equipment extending above the parapet, exterior lighting changes, window and door changes, paint scheme changes, etc.
- Residential expansion larger than 25% on retention lots requiring engineering approval.
- Mechanical, electrical, plumbing which is part of a pending building project or a building project not suitable for over the counter permits.
- Projects where structural calculations are required.
Please Note: The counter plan review is usually available on TUESDAY and THURSDAY (only) from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. To learn more, call (480) 350-8341 to verify availability of services.
City Of Tempe Building Permits
Fax: 480.350.8677
How Do I Know if I Need a Permit in Tempe?
You May Need a Tempe Building Permit, if you’re:
- – Moving a sink- requires the proper extension of plumbing.
- – Demolishing a load-bearing wall- means redistributing weight from above.
- – Changing the home’s roof line framing.
- – Punching in a new window or door- requires a new header that carries weight from above.
- – Altering the footprint of your house.
- – Installing new electrical wiring.
You May NOT Need a Tempe Building Permit, if you’re:
- – Putting in hardwood floor.
- – Installing carpeting.
- – Upgrading your counter tops.
- – Paint
For more Building Permit specific details related to cities that you live or work, click on one of the following links: Phoenix, Tempe, Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale.
About the Author
A Tempe architect will help you avoid many common mistakes that are made with construction projects. No matter what kind of space you need today, we’ll make sure it’s designed for your needs in the future. This will give you future function built into today’s home addition. To discuss your Tempe building permit needs, contact Doug Rusk at 480-710-3861 or email us at drusk@designlinearchitects.com.
Architect in Tempe
Doug Rusk, Architect DesignLine Architects, LLC Gilbert, Arizona www.designlinearchitects.com
Case Study – Prescription for a Master Bath Remodel : master bathroom remodel.
Written By Doug Rusk, Architect
Chandler Master Bathroom Remodel
When Dawn, a San Francisco Pharmacist, decided to move closer to her grandkids in Chandler, she found an amazing home that was more than what the doctor ordered. But despite this home’s idyllic location in an exclusive gated Arizona community, Dawn knew that her first move was to renovate her dark, out dated Master Bathroom.
Using a trusted referral for a reputable, licensed contractor, Dawn called Ken from Behrmann Home Basics (BHB) to start work immediately. Ken knew that a quick hand sketch would help Dawn visualize a few alternate ideas for her Master Bath Remodel. So he brought in Gilbert Architect Doug Rusk from DESIGNLine Architects to help Dawn make sense of the many design choices available.
With her casual / contemporary styling preference and a flexible budget in mind, Dawn’s main requirement was to remove the Master Bath Tub in order to make room for a large walk-in shower. Below are pictures of the original Master Bathroom, showing the dated tub/shower combination and two small windows over the vanity.
Although Doug’s first sketches of Option’s 1 & 2 worked reasonably well (shown above), it was Option #3 (shown below) that Dawn immediately knew was the Master Bathroom renovation she wanted.
Master Bathroom Remodel – Scope of Work
In addition to removing the Master Bath Tub in order to make room for a large walk-in shower, Dawn wanted the mirrors on the closet doors replaced with a wood paneled door in her Master Bathroom Remodel. She also wanted an electric hair dryer available to grab at a moment’s notice from one of the drawers under the sink that was already plugged in (SHOWN ABOVE). For the borders over the shower and the vanity splash, we used colorful glass tile.
Chandler Master Bathroom Remodel
Below are pictures taken during the construction phase, showing the framing, plumbing and electrical work inside the walls. During the short construction phase, the BHB construction team did an amazing job of installing plastic walls with zippers to seal off the construction zone from the main home.
Chandler Master Bathroom Remodel
About the Author
Doug Rusk is the principal at DESIGNLine Architects, LLC located in Gilbert, Arizona. We specialize in residential design and commercial remodeling for small and medium sized businesses with expertise in space planning and interior design consulting. We’ll provide your General Contractor a thorough preliminary design packages that will enable an early construction cost estimate to confirm your budget quickly.
Doug Rusk, Architect
DesignLine Architects, LLC
Gilbert, Arizona
480-710-3861
www.designlinearchitects.com
CASE STUDY: Chandler Master Bathroom Remodel
Written by Doug Rusk, Architect
Chandler Master Bathroom Remodel
Nestled among a large group of Sun Lakes retirement homes, where golf carts dot a sleepy street in South Chandler Arizona, stands a home that’s in desperate need of a Master Bathroom Remodel. bathroom remodel, bathroom remodel, bathroom remodel, bathroom remodel
Recent New York transplants, Ana and Ayad, did what most people do when they move into a home that shows signs of mold in their shower; they called a reputable, licensed contractor, who in this case was Ken from Behrmann Home Basics (BHB). Because this wasn’t the first or the last project that Ana and Ayad would need, Ken knew the first step would be to have a quick hand sketch designed by Doug Rusk, from DESIGNLine Architects, that would help his clients visualize a few alternate ideas for their Master Bath Remodel. Ana had a very specific idea in her mind for the Bathroom remodel. bathroom remodel, bathroom remodel
She wanted to remove the makeup counter, drawers and knee space between the two sinks (shown above). “This would leave 3-1/2 feet of space between the sink vanities for a nice sized floor plant”, she said. But because she also wanted the medicine cabinet storage removed also, Doug, her Architect, had another idea for her Master Bath Remodel.
bathroom remodel
He wanted to replace the lost medicine cabinet with storage for a toothbrush, soap and accessories. So Doug also proposed Option A (shown above) which would instead add a tall cabinet between the two vanity sinks, high enough for the vanity counter to extend behind the false cabinet front, creating a storage niche. Ana ended up sticking with her original Master Bath remodel vision and kept the space for a healthy green plant. bathroom remodel
Here is the shower converted from a light pink, vintage 1992 ceramic, to a more updated ceramic tile finish, with a textured glass, frame-less enclosure. Below are a few pictures that show the Master Bathroom remodel.athroom remodel
Chandler Master Bathroom Remodel
Many of the Sun Lakes home, built in the early 1990’s, are well designed and have great bones. Now that these homes are getting a little older, certain areas need updating. With some strategic planning, the lives of these homes can be extended for another 20 years +. Intelligently remodeling an existing house to make it last for another generation is also one of the most sustainable things a homeowner can do.
Below we’ve outlined a couple of our primary strategies you should consider for your next home remodel:
1. Limit the scope
While it would typically be ideal to update the entire home, most homeowners have a budget that requires a limited scope; being aware of where dollars are spent allows a homeowner to get the most renovation for their buck. Usually there are certain areas of older homes that need the most attention and we’ve found that the kitchen and bathrooms remodeling are typically most in need of modernizing. bathroom remodel
2. Be Selective
Sometimes it’s hard to know where to stop with a home renovation. While you’re updating the kitchen, it’s tempting to also update a few things in the living room, and then why not replace too old, hall bath shower enclosure and, then you realize, that awful garage floor needs that speckled paint you always wanted. Before you know it, budget creep occurs. We find it useful stay true to your budget and to specifically define where the remodel is ending.
About the Author
Doug Rusk is the principal at DESIGNLine Architects, LLC located in Gilbert, Arizona. We specialize in residential and commercial remodeling for small and medium sized businesses with expertise in space planning and interior design consulting. We’ll provide your General Contractor a thorough preliminary design packages that will enable an early construction cost estimate to confirm your Master Bath remodel budget quickly. bathroom remodel, bathroom remodel, bathroom remodel
Doug Rusk, Architect
DesignLine Architects, LLC
Gilbert, Arizona
480-710-3861
www.designlinearchitects.com
Phoenix Home Remodeling
Plan a Budget, Before Signing Construction Contract
The key to successful home remodeling is taking the time up front for proper planning. It’s in the best interest of ALL homeowner’s to consider the four steps below, BEFORE signing a construction contract. Early planning is important for an enjoyable remodeling experience, because it will flush out problems early and set expectations that will prepare you for the road ahead.
1. Master Plan –
ALL Your Home Remodeling Ideas Together in One Plan –
You might be a homeowner whose family needs are changing, or maybe you’ve lived in your home for a while and just need a change.
- – Make a Wish List – First, make a detailed list that includes everything you’d wish for in your home remodeling project(s).
- – Get Architect’s help – Then, call an Architect to design one plan (called a Master Plan) that ties together ALL your ideas on your wish list.
- – Divide into Smaller Projects – Finally, work with your Architect to prioritize and break up all your remodeling ideas into manageable projects.
You can complete each piece of your master plan as you can afford them, knowing that each piece has been designed to fit together.
2. Determine your “Bottom Line” Remodeling Budget –
After writing a scope of work, create a budget for your home remodeling project.
- – Bottom Line – Ask yourself, what is the maximum dollar amount you will allow yourself to spend? It’s in your best interest to determine your “bottom line” budget amount, and then stick to it.
- – Contingency – Once you have that budget number firmly in mind, it’s wise to set aside what’s called a “contingency”. Some people feel comfortable with 10%, others 25% or more. Because extra spending will probably occur, the contingency keeps your budget under control so that you finish your original renovation plan.
- – No Surprises – Creating the budget first, helps homeowners be realistic about selecting the final architectural designs and finish materials they can afford.
3. Write a Scope of Work –
With your Master Plan design complete, work with your Architect to develop a written Scope of Work.
- – List the Steps – An itemized task list of construction (i.e. demolition, concrete, framing, electrical, mechanical). By stating clearly in writing the details of the project, the general contractor will have a very specific picture of your project and provide a more accurate construction estimate. Also detail what’s NOT included in project.
- – Details are Important – It clears out any grey areas, all uncertainties and ambiguities. For instance, a general contractor might not know you want the wall paper and flooring removed and disposed of in a remodel job if you don’t say so.
- – Remodeling Cost Schedule – Be sure to create a project cost control schedule where you review the costs on a regular basis.
4. Detailed Written Contract –
A contract is needed to set the rules and the terms of your home remodel. It’s very important to write down ALL your project goals up front and include them in the written contract with your architect and contractor.
- – Spell out the Details – There needs to be a clear agreement reflected in the contract about the extent of the work, the quality of workmanship expected, the quality of the materials used, and other specific details of the remodeling design.
- – Never assume. When it doubt, write it all down.
- – Important Note – if you do sign a contract and then have second thoughts, the Federal Trade Commission’s “cooling off rule” may apply. It allows you a 72-hour period in which to cancel the agreement.
It’s easy to jump ahead without thoroughly planning out your home renovation. Improper planning will result in impulsive decisions and choices that might cost extra either in labor or materials. If you take the extra time required to follow these four steps in the beginning, you will take control of your home renovation, and really enjoy the results.
About the Author
Phoenix Architecture Firms
An architect will help you avoid many common mistakes that are made with construction projects. And no matter what kind of space you need today, we’ll make sure it’s designed for your needs in the future. This will give you future function built into today’s addition. To set up a home remodeling appointment contact Doug Rusk at 480-710-3861 or email us at drusk@designlinearchitects.com.
Doug Rusk, Architect
DesignLine Architects, LLC
www.designlinearchitects.com
BEFORE you begin your “Scottsdale Home Remodel”
Home Remodeling Scottsdale
BEFORE you begin your Scottsdale home remodel project, there are a few important steps to take now, that will prevent surprises later – surprises that might significantly affect your project budget and time schedule. The detailed steps below will give you an idea of the some of the upfront research needed BEFORE starting your home remodel in Scottsdale. Working with an expert such as an Architect will help you navigate this important process.
1. Read your CC&R’s –
Home remodeling is about change, and major changes to an existing Scottsdale home may be subject to rules and restrictions set by state and local building authorities as well as the legal rights of your neighbors. Review your Codes, Covenants and Regulations (CC&R’s) you agreed to comply with when you moved into your neighborhood.
2. Scottsdale, AZ Development Standards –
Every Scottsdale home Parcel has Zoning Ordinance and Building Setback requirements and restrictions , including distances that buildings/ structures must be “set back” from the property line. Setback requirements for your home will vary depending upon the zoning district (i.e. R1-190, R1-7, etc). Submit a Setback Request to the City of Scottsdale to determine the development standards for your property. This will help you determine where you can build on the lot, the lot coverage restrictions (if applicable) and wall/fence restrictions. Looking for the APN# of your parcel? Go to www.Maricopa.gov and select GIS Maps.
3. Fire Sprinklers –
If you are improving or adding 25% or more of the existing structure (under roof area), then fire sprinklers must be installed through out the entire Scottsdale home, including enclosed, non-heated storage, garage, etc. Here’s a link to Scottsdale’s Fire Sprinkler worksheet. For approximate sprinkler installation costs figure between $1.50 – $3.00 per square foot under roof, depending on complexity.
4. Building Code –
If you are improving or adding 50% or more of the existing structure (under roof area), then the entire structure must be brought up to all current Building Code standards. For work that is less than 50%, only the new work you are completing on your home must comply with current codes.
5. Will you need a Building Permit?
There are four types of Scottsdale building permits:
Building Permit
- – Required for all construction work including patio covers, room additions, carports and garage enclosures, walls/fences, retaining walls, and accessory buildings (storage buildings less than 200 square feet only requires a site plan). Permits will expire if work is not commenced within 180 days of the permit being issued to you, or if the work is not inspected by the city for a period of more than 180 days.
Electrical Permit
- – Required to install, alter, reconstruct or repair electrical wiring on any building, structure, swimming pool, or mechanical equipment.
Plumbing Permit
- – Required to install, alter, reconstruct, or repair any plumbing system, gas system, lawn sprinkler supply, water heater replacement.
Mechanical Permit
- – Required to install, alter, reconstruct or repair any furnace, refrigeration or other air conditioning equipment or system, except portable or window units.
6. You may NOT need a Building Permit
While most home improvement projects in Scottsdale require a permit (which helps ensure safety standards), there are some projects that do NOT require a residential building permit:
- – Detached, non-habitable structures smaller than 200 square feet in floor area (a site plan is required);
- – Patio slabs or sidewalks/drives (not over 30 inches above grade);
- – Repair existing landscape irrigation piping (a permit is required to connect a new irrigation system to your waterline);
- – Walls, three feet or less (except retaining walls);
- – Low-voltage landscape accent lighting;
- – Minor repairs or replacement of non-structural items such as glass, doors, hardware, kitchen cabinets, carpeting, flooring or trim work (not affecting a pool enclosure or garage);
- – Paint (interior/exterior); repair drywall, plasterboard, paneling or stucco (insulated stucco systems require a permit);
- – Repair or replace existing evaporative coolers or air conditioning units without increasing the unit size or capacity;
- – Repair or replace existing plumbing fixtures in the same location;
- – Re-shingle or retile a roof when the same material is used.
7. Scottsdale Permit Fees
For a fee schedule, refer to www.scottsdaleaz.gov/onestopshop and select “Fees” Or you can contact the One Stop Shop at (480) 312-2500.
8. Home Improvement Forms & Guides
Looking for plan submittal information for major or minor remodels built in Scottsdale, AZ, then click here.
About the Author
A Scottsdale architect will help you avoid many common mistakes that are made with construction projects. No matter what kind of space you need today, we’ll make sure it’s designed for your needs in the future. This will give you future function built into today’s home addition. To set up an appointment contact Doug Rusk at 480-710-3861 or email us at drusk@designlinearchitects.com.
Doug Rusk, Architect
DesignLine Architects, LLC
Gilbert, Arizona
“Architectural Design Strategies” for your Phoenix Floor Plan
Can your front yard be transformed into Private Outdoor Living? Can the garage or bedroom you’re using today be tomorrow’s organized Home Office? Is an In-Law Suite needed because of your changing life style? We can help you use some simple “architectural design strategies” for your next home renovation that will evolve as your lifestyle changes.
“Architectural design strategies” will be used by your Architect to transform your home into a functional and beautiful space for you now, yet has the designed-in flexibility to allow new uses as your lifestyle moves forward. The next generation home remodels made by homeowners today are typically smarter, more efficient and more focused on good living, rather than designed merely to impress, according to a recent AIA article. The goal is to work with your floor plan and make better use your existing space. The promise is you can live more fully in your existing house, if you plan ahead and use the architectural services of a good Architect.
DESIGNLine Architects, LLC has identified three Architectural design strategies we’d like to share with anyone who is considering a modification to their floor plan.
Ideas for Outdoor Living Floor Plans in Phoenix
Curb Appeal. The first thing homebuyers, family and friends will look at when they visit your home is your front yard, the color of your home, the landscaping, and the walkways. You only have one chance to make a first impression.
Relationship of Inside to Outside. Consider aligning the elements of the Outdoor and Indoor Kitchen. This will simplify the plumbing and electrical connections.
Consider the View. What is your view from each outdoor space? You most likely cannot alter the view, but you can maximize a good one, or minimize a bad one. Also consider views of key plants from inside.
Functionality and Beauty. Herb planters are an easy way to add beauty and functionality to the space. Well positioned low voltage yard lights, colorful outdoor candles, and lanterns add a sense of festivity, and light up the more remote corners of the yard.
Music sets the Mood. A set of outdoor speakers can be used alone or as part of a larger entertainment system. A small fountain in the background lends some soft water sounds to the rest of the yard.
Ideas for Home Office Floor Plans in Phoenix
Consider Location Carefully. Size and location are two main factors to address when adding a Home Office. Consider how many people will use your office space. Will you have client meetings?
Small Space Design. The corner of a room is probably the most effective way to re-design your floor plan to have an office with minimal cost or disruption.
Private Location. Consider a quiet, out of the way location for your Home Office like the attic, basement or enclosed porch.
Ideas for In-Law Suite Floor Plans in Phoenix
As people live longer and healthier lives, more families are finding it beneficial to provide a special space for aging parents by combining households.
Shower Sketch 1
Before Starting Remodel. Open and honest discussion with your parent and other family members is an essential first step before remodeling. This will help define the areas you need to change.
Safety and Comfort. Universal design or ADA-compliant living is one in which the occupant can use everything in the home safely without assistance. Floor plan design features may include one-story living, no-step entryways, wide doorways, extra floor space, floors and bathroom features with no-slip surfaces, improved lighting and details such as lever door handles.
Think Creatively. In addition to a bedroom, bathroom and closets, the In-Law Suite could include a kitchenette, laundry, living and dining area. You could renovate the floor plan of a garage, bedroom, attic, office, basement, back porch, even a barn or freestanding cottage on your property. Consider the help of an Architect to check the local zoning ordinances first before designing the house plans.
Start with a 3-D Sketch of your Phoenix House Remodel
Ask your Architect to draw a 3-dimensional hand-sketch that will allow you to visualize your architectural design ideas. It will also help your contractor prepare an early cost estimate to verify your budget goals.
Home Remodel Architect Phoenix
Doug Rusk
DesignLine Architects, LLC
Gilbert, Arizona
www.designlinearchitects.com
Phoenix New Home Design that “Fits the Way You Live, Now”
Does your Home Design fit your current lifestyle?
You’ve lived in your existing Phoenix home for many years and its served you well. But for some time now you’ve realized that your needs have changed – maybe most of the kids are on their own, or a family member needs to move in, or maybe it’s just time to update your home. Here are a few things to consider, if you are planning a remodel or new home design:
* Improve on what you already have. Yes, your life is always in motion, but sometimes small changes to your home design can have a big impact.
* Write a list of all your household activities. The intent is to identify the way you live now and the way you’ll live in the future.
* Identify the big design ideas early on. Ask your architect to draw a few conceptual 3D sketches of your space. These quick sketches are a great starting point to convert your words and thoughts into visual pictures.
* Don’t rush to finish the design process. Let the ideas develop and evolve over time. There WILL be a point when you will KNOW in your gut that your Phoenix new home design is complete. Only then will we move to the finishing details.
What Feels like Home to You?
Where do we find and how do we incorporate the emotional qualities we want most in our Phoenix new home design? Draw on the past to establish your feelings of home, and then incorporate them into your current lifestyle and needs.
* Childhood memories often contain vivid images and emotions that trigger feelings of joy and peacefulness. As young people, we were more receptive to the simple pleasures of living.
* Perhaps the home you grew up in had a window seat just big enough for you and all your dolls or toy soldiers. Maybe you remember your kitchen table was close enough to your mother at the stove so that you could hear her softly humming over the sounds and aroma of sizzling bacon? Did your grandma live down a long tree lined road in a white farmhouse with a large wrapping porch, where you remember the fragrance of orange blossoms?
* It may surprise you to find that these nostalgic memories are at the center of your preferred design taste and desires. Bringing these memories into a creative remodel or new home design process may assist you in making your space feel more like home.
Home is a Special Place, Where You can be You
No doubt that your architect will help bring these nostalgic memories and new home design goals to the surface. But the following questions are designed to help stimulate your thoughts on what feels most like home to you.
* From other homes you’ve visited, what elements most appeal to you?
* What feelings do you want to have as you drive up the driveway or walk up to you new home? Be specific.
* What is most important to you in a new home or remodel?
* Pleasant memories are helpful to your architect. Think back to your favorite indoor childhood spaces. Which rooms were most memorable?
– Why did you enjoys those rooms?
– How did those rooms make you feel?
These are only a few of the questions your architect will ask in order to gain an understanding of your ideas of home, your lifestyle and how you and he will incorporate them into your Phoenix new home design or remodel that fits the way you live now, and in the future.
Author
Doug Rusk
DesignLine Architects, LLC
Gilbert, Arizona
www.designlinearchitects.com
Home Additions Mean “Forward Planning” in Phoenix
Can a 3rd Car Garage Bay become a professional Home Office? Can the Formal Dining room you live in today become tomorrow’s Game Room? It certainly can! And we can help you develop a “forward planning” approach for your next Home Addition that will evolve with your changing lifestyle and give you the added living space you need. That’s value!
“Forward planning” Home Additions means working with your Architect to design a space that is functional and beautiful for you now, yet has the designed-in flexibility to allow new uses as your lifestyle moves forward. DESIGNLine Architects, LLC has identified three “forward planning” tips we’d like to share with anyone who is considering a home addition or add-on:
Home Addition Idea #1: Home Office into En-Suite for your Guests:
Does your home office need more space? If you design it with its own entrance today, then you’ll not only meet tax rules, you’ll also create a “forward planning” home addition that can later be used as a cozy Guest En-Suite. As part of your home office design, we’ll build in features that will make the room function well as your office today, so that later it will help elderly relatives enjoy a safe, yet independent stay. In addition, consider wood flooring rather than carpeting, lever-style handles rather than knobs, and a bathroom that can easily become accessible, even if mobility is not issue today. Designer features such as built-in cabinets, a vaulted ceiling or a fireplace can give the office a professional feel today, while providing a touch of luxury for your future Guest En-Suite.
Home Addition Idea #2: Bedroom into Home Gym:
So you’re considering an extra bedroom and bathroom for the kids. But what you really want, however, is a workout room and sauna. By forward planning, your home addition an Architect can design the extra bedroom and bath for today’s needs and then, easily convert the space for your own personalized health club once the kids are off to school.
Home Addition Tip #3: Busy Family house into Empty Nest:
If you have children, a spacious first-floor game room is a wise investment that provides the family many hours of fun. Thinking about today’s needs, this type of home addition should include ample storage for board games, open floor plan, and also walls and floors that are easy to clean and wear well.
Eventually the kids will have outgrown the game room. That’s when all the work you spent “forward planning” a well-designed game room will easily be renovated into one of today’s most desirable home features: a first-floor Master Bedroom & Bathroom suite. To make the conversion as easy as possible, make sure the size of the home addition will function well for today’s playroom AND the future master suite. Anticipate how storage space could work for toys now and a wardrobe later. Today’s remodeling might also include a half-bath, but with plenty of room in the floor plan to add a luxurious full bath down the road. When it comes to thinking ahead about your home addition, communication with your Architect is the key.
Home Renovations from Your Phoenix Architect
No matter what kind of space you need today, we’ll make sure it’s designed for your needs in the future. This will give you future function built into today’s addition. If you’d like to discuss how a “forward planning” approach can increase your living space and save you money, please give us a call. To set up an appointment contact Doug Rusk at 480-710-3861 or email us at drusk@designlinearchitects.com. We will ensure your Home Addition will look more attractive and welcoming, while also increasing efficiency and comfort for your family.
Home Remodeling Remains a Solid Investment in Phoenix, Arizona
Compiled by Doug Rusk, Architect
List of the Average Costs for 35 Popular Remodeling Projects in Phoenix, Arizona
While the average age of the American home will soon reach 30 years old, more and more homeowners are considering a Home Remodel. The costs of these major remodels, however, can be intimidating in today’s current market. The lists below compares the average cost for 35 popular remodeling projects in the Arizona Region with the value those projects retain at resale.
According to 2010-11 Remodeling Online Cost Value Report, Home Improvement projects such as bath remodeling, room additions, kitchen updates, exterior elevation “facelifts”, and making energy efficiency improvements remain a solid investments for homeowners in relative to the value of their home and neighborhood.
What are the cost of some specific remodels?
Topping the 2010 -11 Home Remodel Cost Value Report for Phoenix is the replacement of your Steel Entry Door (102.1% recouped) and/or Garage Door (83.9% recouped), because they both improve curb appeal so well and, consequently, improve your home’s resale value. For an estimated cost of between $970 – $1,197, both projects rank at the top their respective categories for two main reasons: 1) They are among the least expensive projects in the survey, and 2) They both recoup the most from their investment. Improving the curb appeal can affect a potential buyer’s first impression and your home’s resale value.
The fourth (4th) highest on the list this year is the Minor Remodel of your Kitchen, which will recoup 72.8% of the $21,046 in estimated costs. According to the 2010-11 Cost Value Report “in a functional but dated 200-square-foot kitchen with 30 linear feet of cabinetry and countertops, leave cabinet boxes in place but replace fronts with new raised-panel wood doors and drawers, including new hardware. Replace wall oven and cooktop with new energy-efficient models. Replace laminate countertops; install mid-priced sink and faucet. Repaint trim, add wall covering, and remove and replace resilient flooring.”
The seventh (7th) highest on the list this year is the Attic Bedroom Remodel, which will recoup 72.2% of the $51,428 in estimated costs. According to the 2010-11 Cost Value Report “convert unfinished attic space to a 15-by-15-foot bedroom and a 5-by-7-foot bathroom with shower. Include a 15-foot shed dormer, four new windows, and closet space under the eaves. Insulate and finish ceiling and walls. Carpet floor. Extend existing HVAC to new space; provide electrical wiring and lighting to code. Retain existing stairs, but add rail and baluster around stairwell.”
Home Renovations in Phoenix Means First Starting with a Clear Plan
Most home owners underestimate the number of decisions they need to make their Home Remodel successful. Proper planning helps you avoid spending extra money later.
- – Start an image folder by compiling pictures of spaces and buildings you love.
- – Write down a list of the rooms and functions you want to consider.
- – Identify your goals for project schedule and budget.
- – Whether consulting with your architect or contractor for ideas and advice, there are a variety of decisions you’ll need to work through. At DESIGNLine ARCHITECTS we offer an alternative Design/Build approach that will pin down the cost question quickly, so you can make the decision to move forward.
Home Renovations From Your Phoenix Architects
To set up an appointment contact Doug Rusk at 480-710-3861 or email us at drusk@designlinearchitects.com. We will ensure your Residential Remodel will look more attractive and welcoming, while also increasing efficiency and comfort for your family.
Doug Rusk, Architect DesignLine Architects, LLC Gilbert, Arizona www.designlinearchitects.com
Why Hire an Architect For Your Home Remodel or Custom Home in Phoenix?
Are you considering a Home Remodel of your current home or building a new Custom Home? If so, this can be such an exciting, yet overwhelming, adventure. There are so many things to consider and how do you know where to start?
An Architect to Design Your New Custom Home in Phoenix?
If you are designing a new Custom home, you may really want to consider hiring an Architect. Ask yourself what your goals are? Do you just want to pick a stock floor plan out of a book? Or do you want to take the ideas in your head and create a custom floor plan that meets the needs of YOUR particular lifestyle? What are the perimeters of your lot and the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&R’s) for your community in Phoenix? Confused already? For these reasons and many more, hiring an architect will help you with all of these issues and provide you with a design that specifically meets your needs.
An Architect to Design the Remodel of your Home in Phoenix?
If you are considering a remodel to your existing home you may question if you need to hire an architect. Of course, this really depends on the project. Often times though an architect can provide design ideas that you may not have even considered, ones that will better achieve your original goals for Home Remodeling in the first place. As they say measure twice, cut once. A well designed and thought out house plan will give you the best results and a better value for your money spent.
What is an Architect?
There are many options to choose from when you are designing and executing a Home Remodel or building a new Custom Home. There are draftspeople, designers, space planners, contractors, architects and many more titles that people call themselves. In the state of Arizona one cannot call themselves an “Architect” unless they have been registered or licensed to practice architecture in the state. To be a licensed or registered architect in the state of Arizona one must complete a bachelor’s degree in architecture, a 3 year internship and pass an extensive series of licensing tests administered by the State. What exactly does that mean for you and your residential project? Hiring an Architect for your project can provide you with a professional that has a wealth of knowledge and expertise that you may not find in an unlicensed designer.
How Do I Choose an Architect in Phoenix?
A good Arizona Architect should provide a no-cost, initial consultation. This gives you a chance to run your basic ideas by them and get a feel for their design style and if they are someone you can work with. It is important to find an Architect that you feel confident about and enjoy working with. A good Architect will be able to help you realize and visualize your ideas on paper to result in a remodel or new build that best meets YOUR needs. Many times there are several solutions to solve a problem and an Architect can help you define these.
About the Author
Doug Rusk is the owner and principal Architect at DESIGNLine ARCHITECTS. He believes the initial consultation appointment is an important step for both the client and the Architect. A relationship must be built in order to establish good communication. This provides the best possible outcome for your project no matter how big or small. To set up an appointment contact Doug Rusk at 480-710-3861 or email us at drusk@designlinearchitects.com. to get started on your Home Remodel or new Custom Home Design.
Doug Rusk, Architect DesignLine Architects, LLC Gilbert, Arizona www.designlinearchitects.com