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Reviving the Space Beneath Your Feet: A Guide to Basement Finishing
Is your basement just a storage unit for holiday bins and cobwebs? Residential Designer Robert Smith explains how to transform that neglected square footage into a true extension of your home. From water management essentials to the top 5 features that offer the best ROI (and the 'trends' you should definitely skip), discover the blueprint for a basement that works as hard as you do.
Avoiding Remodel Sticker Shock: A Homeowner’s Guide
Renovating your home used to be the budget-friendly alternative to building new, but over the last decade, that math has changed. In this article, Robert Smith of Fresh Start Designs explains why remodeling costs have spiked—and reveals the strategic changes we are making to help homeowners in PA and the Carolinas afford their dream spaces again.
The New "Carpet Craze": Why We’re Covering Our History with Plastic (And How to Stop)
Remember the carpet craze of the 1970s, when everyone covered their beautiful hardwood floors with shag? We are currently living through the modern equivalent: The LVP Craze. In this article, Residential Designer Robert Smith explores why Luxury Vinyl Plank has taken over the renovation market, why it is often a mistake to install it over real wood, and how you can break the cycle with timeless flooring alternatives that build true long-term value.
What Does "Grandfathered" Actually Mean for Your Home Renovation?
Renovating an older home comes with a common fear: will touching one room force me to update the entire house to modern standards? The answer lies in understanding what is truly 'grandfathered' and what isn't. Residential Designer Robert Smith breaks down the reality of building codes, identifying the specific triggers for mandatory upgrades—from egress windows to stair railings—so you can budget accurately and avoid costly surprises.
The “VIF” Trap: Why It’s Time for Designers to Stop Passing the Buck
The acronym "VIF" (Verify In Field) appears on almost every set of blueprints, but too often, it’s a red flag for a lazy design process. While sometimes necessary for hidden conditions, this note is frequently used by architects and designers to shift the burden of accuracy—and liability—onto the builder. In this article, Robert Smith of Fresh Start Designs explains the real cost of "VIF," why it leads to change orders, and how a commitment to precise measuring protects the homeowner's budget.