Welcome! It’s been a while since I’ve been here…writing and composing this blog. I’ve decided it’s time to ‘dust off’ Design Sense and Sensibility. This week I am joining Garter Girl on a business blog refresh. She’s giving us specific tasks to complete (so nice to have a schedule!) as we work on the journey of blogging and social media for our businesses.

Today is Thursday and our task is to take an old blog and tweak it. I looked at my rather neglected blog and saw a series I started, focusing on a large first floor remodel project. I managed to write two posts about the initial design process, alas, post #3 #4 #5, etc. never happened. Which is a shame because it was a great project and really showed what we do at Tuscan Blue Design.

For a re-fresh take a look at Post#1 and Post#2 where I discussed our process — what happens when the client says yes and we start the project and the initial design phase of a project. Then pull up a chair and join me below for the project finale.

If I go back to Post #2 the next step was the ‘not so sexy-but really important’ part of design/remodeling- gathering estimates, working with the client + GC on the budget, and fine tuning the design.

Blog post #3 should have been titled, Full Design Mode. Deciding the style-look for the spaces, reviewing all sorts of inspiration images with the client, and taking all that info + design drawings to start on the finish selections and interior detailing.

• Cabinetry Style/Finish/Color
• Interior architectural details
• Counter top selection
• Flooring type and color
• Back splash design/selection
• Lighting selection for the first floor
• Appliance selection
• Furniture/fabric selection
• Window treatment design/fabric selection
• Staircase design
• Millwork design
• Fireplace - fine tuning the final design based on budget

LAST but not least we developed a first floor paint scheme. Yes, I recommend selectingt paint colors last. They are meant to be a back drop in the space, pairing with all the other finishes.

Guess what is next? Post #4 — Construction Phase. This project went very smoothly for a first floor remodel. The design, selections, and construction details were in place before construction began…that is the right way to move forward. This when I am VERY thankful I have an amazing team — design staff, GC, cabinet-tile showroom, counter top showroom, painter, handyman, drapery fabricator, etc.

THE FINALE!

Be sure you scroll all the way down to see the before images…

BEFORE

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Based in historic downtown Frederick, MD, Tuscan Blue Design works in the greater DC area. Contact us today for an initial meeting to discuss your project and what we can build together.

Cheers -

Meredith