In this blog I will do my best to describe the process I went through in turning my 1957 Ranch-style house into a 2006 Craftsman house as inspired by the Gamble House in Pasadena. Please feel free to comment on anything I write and ask questions as it is the only way we learn.

Note: Since completion of the house I have also decided to allow guest bloggers to post articles related to remodeling. This continues the education process.


TIMELINE
Architect Selection - December 2002 through January 2003
Getting a Permit - January 2003 through November 2004
Construction - November 2004 through September 2006
Post Construction - October 2006 through ???



Do Your Bedroom Up With Style and Functionality!

If you're looking to makeover your guest bedroom in a quick and easy fashion, here are five basic ways to get the job done so your guests can feel right at home:

Makeover Your Guest Bedroom


When making over your guest bedroom, keep it clean and simple. When guests are ready to settle in, they don't want to stay in a cluttered room that had a bed thrown in as an afterthought. Try to keep it uncluttered and neutral. A great piece of advice to everyone who has a guest room is to sleep in it yourself for just one night to see what changes need to be made. If you notice weird noises, annoying light or an uncomfortable mattress, chances are your guest will too.

Simplicity


Try to keep everything basic yet stylish by using the minimum amount of furniture — one table, one chair and one bed. Keep the décor uncluttered and try placing only two items on top of the dresser and only a lamp on the bedside table. Always keep the dresser empty, so your guests will have someplace to store and easily access their personal items after arriving. Also, don't forget to keep the closet cleaned out so guests can also use it to store their suitcases and hang wrinkle-prone clothes. Add a comfortable and classic-looking couch or set of chairs for a serene spot for your guests to relax.

New Paint for the Guest Room


Paint the walls a neutral color, and this doesn't necessarily mean a cream or tan color. Nowadays, many people think outside the box and have actually started to use black as the base color as well as an accent color to really make a bold statement. However, you shouldn't paint every wall black; Use it on a selected wall if so it won't appear too bold.

New Window Treatments


The idea of keeping it simple can also continue to window treatments. A great look that is a favorite among many is wooden blinds made of bamboo or woven wood, and popular plantation shutters. Many other styles are available, such as blackout shades, light filtering shades, Roman shades and honeycomb cell shades. Great deals with many different designs that match every kind of décor imaginable can be found online with the right research. You don't have to spend a fortune on designer brands to set up a fashionable guest room that is sure to impress.

Extra Items for Comfort


You should always keep certain things on hand for your guests so they stay comfortable. Some of these items should include:


  • Books or magazines

  • Stationary

  • Mirror

  • Alarm clock

  • Clean towels

  • New shampoo, soap and toothpaste

  • Night light

  • Clothes hamper

  • TV

  • Phone or computer charger

  • Bottled water and light snacks


Keeping small items readily available will make your guests feel more at home. Many guests forget the small things such as shampoo or toothpaste, so having them readily available for use would be nice. Besides, you can purchase these items for as cheap as $1 each, or stock up for free next time you are at a hotel.

You will find that simplicity and these small convenience items will actually make a big difference for your guests.
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