Renovation planning, step-by-step
Don’t we all have a soft spot for beautiful, magazine-worthy interiors? I absolutely love the process of furnishing and decorating a home, but you’ll often hear me say that the décor aspect enhances the features and quality of a well-completed renovation. I had occasion to reflect on this recently when we photographed our Kamouraska River House project. I genuinely loved all the furniture and décor pieces that were displayed, but we also made a point of focusing attention on the finishes and custom items that went into the “hardscape” of the spaces beforehand.
Laminam’s Bianco Lasa Naturali
Planning is key
To complete a successful renovation, thorough planning is a must. Through the well-honed design process that we’ve tried and tested over many years, the same basic steps ensure that we have a distinct design direction and clear communication as we move through the renovation work.
The first steps focus on fact-finding: in the case of a renovation to an existing home, this would involve design-specific measurements and locating existing amenities.
Next comes requesting the client’s wish list and any initial design direction ideas. There are no rules here and all ideas are considered! These are the best conversations, and we often uncover some hidden gems during these client interviews. Perhaps you’ve always longed for a turquoise kitchen or an at-home spa (we’re all ears!)
At full design speed
At this point, the design team takes over. Room layouts will be drafted and refined. Appliances and specialized features will be sourced and specified very early in this process, to ensure that all design considerations have been accounted for. In this category, we would closely refer to specifications for refrigerators, stove tops, ovens, steam showers, saunas, dressing areas, pool tables, shoe closets, wall beds, art displays – you get the idea.
As technical drawings get underway, the creative aspect is firing on all cylinders alongside. A clear design concept is formulated, and it becomes the touchpoint from which all style and design decisions will be made. A design vision starts to take shape. Materials and finishes start to enter the discussion as we visit showrooms and source from our extensive sample library.
Large-scale Laminam countertop slabs
Coastal inspiration
In our River House project, for instance, the design concept is inspired by the flowing waters nearby and the windswept, rugged shoreline. The goal was to integrate beautiful, quality finishes used consistently throughout. A scheme of deep blue cabinetry accented with satin brass hardware, upscale stone-effect countertops and artisan backsplash tile furnish the kitchen. Ceramic tile and oak plank flooring echoing the landscape with natural colour and patterns anchor and unite various open spaces.
Details that make the space
As the design direction and drawings take shape, lighting and architectural features are also determined. All of these specifications are outlined in the design drawing package that is submitted to the contractor and trades prior to the start of the renovation. This very detailed set of drawings and documents ensures good communication throughout the project.
Having important decisions made ahead of time also assists in keeping a project running on time and on budget, meaning less tress for all involved.
Many thanks to Laminam for supplying the featured countertop materials. Stay tuned to see them installed in our beautiful Kamouraska River House project!
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We would love to assist you with the design and renovation of your city or vacation home. Mimi Pineau Design creates high-end residential interiors with a chic, modern edge and imbued with comfort, quality and beauty. Contact us to schedule a Discovery Call!