The Studio Z Blog - Studio Z Architecture

Top home remodeling mistake to avoid: late changes that derail your budget

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 19:07:52 GMT

A single late change rarely stays contained. In a remodel, decisions are tightly connected, even when they don't seem that way at first.

On one project, interior elevations–straight-on drawings of each wall in a room that show details like cabinets, tile, and trim– weren't completed because the client felt they weren’t necessary. The contractor and subcontractors proceeded based on standard assumptions. Later, when the client decided on a floating vanity instead of a standard one, several issues surfaced at once:

Tile had already been installed but didn't extend down the wall where the floating vanity would expose it
A floor vent had been placed where a toe-kick would normally go — but a floating vanity has no toe-kick
Light fixtures were positioned based on the original vanity and mirror location

No one had done anything wrong. The contractor’s team built exactly what the documents directed. But once the decision changed, the project had to stop, undo completed work, and rebuild correctly. This project is the reason why we now require interior elevations on every project.

That's the real cost of late changes. They force a project to move backward before it can move forward.

“As soon as something is built, changing it becomes much more complicated. Our role is to help our clients understand which decisions really need to be made early, so changes stay manageable and don't snowball once construction starts.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

“I always tell people I'm going to walk around their house waving my arms—not randomly, but to show them exactly where something will land. We made a lot of decisions standing in a client's bathroom yesterday with a tape measure.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

Highlights

Changing your mind during a remodel is normal, but once construction begins, even small changes can be costly and disruptive
Late changes often affect multiple trades at once, turning what feels like a simple adjustment into a chain reaction of undone and redone work
Structural, mechanical, and plumbing changes tend to be the most expensive to make mid-construction, but even finish changes can introduce delays and fees
The best way to protect your budget is to make key decisions before demolition begins, when changes are still flexible and affordable
A good architect helps you reach that clarity early—using visual tools, honest trade-off conversations, and real-world walkthroughs before anything is built

When you change your mind matters more than what you change

Some revisions carry bigger consequences than others once construction is underway. Structural changes tend to have the greatest impact. Moving or altering framing often brings an engineer back into the conversation and touches several parts of the project at once.

Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing changes are close behind. Shifting any of these after rough-ins can require multiple trades to return and redo coordinated work—even for what feels like a minor location adjustment.

Finish and fixture changes can be more complicated than they appear. If materials are already ordered or installed, switching direction may introduce delays, restocking fees, and reinstallation costs that aren't obvious upfront.

A smooth, predictable project usually begins long before demolition. When decisions are explored thoroughly, visualized carefully, and aligned with budget expectations, construction becomes the execution of a well-understood plan — not a series of surprises.

If you're thinking about renovating, we'd love to help you work through those choices early, when they're still flexible and affordable. Schedule a consultation to get started .

We talk budget before the design goes too far. Before a design is finalized, we want to know whether it aligns with your investment. That helps avoid falling in love with something that has to change later.

Why detailed planning protects your budget

The more decisions that are made before construction, the less guesswork happens in the field. When the tile installer knows you're using a floating vanity, they extend the tile down the wall. When the electrician sees the interior elevations, fixtures go in the right place. When the mechanical contractor understands the cabinetry, vents don't end up where they'll be exposed.

This isn't about over-documenting. It's about removing ambiguity — and it is far easier to adjust lines on paper than finished work.

When changes still happen

How one late decision can ripple through a project

Before construction starts, changes live on paper. After construction begins, changes live in the real world. That distinction is everything.

Early in the design process, adjusting a layout or rethinking a feature means revising drawings and updating the plan before anything is built. Those changes take time and thought, but they're manageable.

Once demolition and framing begin, the same change carries very different consequences. Altering a decision at that stage often means tearing out completed work, rescheduling subcontractors, reordering materials, and sometimes repeating inspections that were already signed off.

Even with careful planning, adjustments sometimes become necessary. When they do, our job is to help you evaluate them clearly: What are you gaining? What are you giving up? What will it cost in time and money?

We're not here to block desired change. We're here to help you choose it wisely.

Ready to start your remodel with confidence?

Changing your mind during a remodel is completely normal. Living through the design process helps homeowners understand their space in new ways, clarify priorities, and see possibilities they hadn't considered before.

The costly mistake isn't changing your mind. It's changing it after construction has already begun.

Once work is underway, materials are ordered, trades are scheduled, and everything is moving in sequence. What feels like a small adjustment on paper can quickly become a domino effect in the field — impacting your budget, extending your timeline, and disrupting the flow of the entire project.

The types of changes that cost the most

Why people change their minds (and why that's normal)

Most homeowners aren't being careless or impulsive. Clarity takes time. A layout might look fine on paper until you stand in the space with a tape measure and understand how it will actually feel. A design element you loved at first might shift once real pricing enters the conversation. Sometimes priorities evolve as you understand what will make the biggest difference in everyday life.

“All of this is normal. Our role is to help clients think through decisions early, understand the trade-offs, and make informed choices before construction begins — when changes are still relatively inexpensive.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

The goal isn't to eliminate change altogether. It's to reach enough clarity early that decisions don't need to be revisited once construction is in motion.

How we help clients make confident decisions earlier

Good design is really about building the project on paper first. Here's how we help that happen. We start with thorough documentation. Accurate measurements and a clear picture of existing conditions prevent surprises and set realistic boundaries from day one.

We present options, and talk honestly about trade-offs. There's rarely one perfect solution. Choosing one priority sometimes means letting go of another. Walking through those realities together ensures decisions are informed, not accidental.

We use multiple ways to help you see the plan. Not everyone reads floor plans easily, and that's okay. We sketch, build models, and mark things out in real space.

Here's what every homeowner should know before the first wall comes down.

Frequently asked questions about late remodeling changes

Contractor red flags: Five signs you hired a bad contractor

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 13:30:03 GMT

A contractor isn’t a short-term visitor. They’ll be in your home, managing significant funds, and making decisions that affect your daily life.

That level of trust deserves careful vetting, beyond glossy websites or the lowest price.

Signs of a bad contractor (and how to avoid one)

Five red flags of a bad contractor

Tip: A clear, written scope of work protects both sides. It sets expectations, defines quality, and reduces surprises.

“The biggest mistake I see is when homeowners don’t do their homework. You really need to ask hard questions, check references, and make sure you understand how a contractor will work with you.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

Not all issues are obvious during the sales pitch. Watch for these warning signs early:

1. Poor communication

4. Evasive about permits

How an architect protects you

Green flags: what good contractors do

“Someone who talks over you, doesn’t listen to you, or tells you how it’s going to be—that’s a red flag.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

Building or improving a home should be exciting. Choosing the wrong contractor can turn it into a headache.

Many homeowners have heard the stories of large deposits with little progress, jobs that drag on, or work that fails inspection. But there is good news: with a clear process and the right team, these pitfalls are avoidable.

At Studio Z Architecture, we help clients evaluate contractors, clarify scope, and keep projects moving. Below are the warning signs we look for, plus practical steps to hire with confidence.

The biggest mistake homeowners make

Before you start interviewing, you can also download our guide to selecting a contractor .

Use this quick checklist:

Do you hold the proper licenses for residential work in this state?
Can you provide proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation?
Will you pull the required permits?
What is the typical timeline for projects like mine?
How do you structure the payment schedule?
May I review a sample contract outlining scope, budget, schedule, and change-order process?
Can you provide a list of references?

You don’t have to navigate this alone. At Studio Z, we guide you through vetting, bid review, and construction so your project stays aligned with your vision.

Ready to build with confidence? Let’s talk about how Studio Z Architecture can help you choose the right contractor and deliver a smooth project from start to finish.

Clear communication is the backbone of any successful project. If a contractor dismisses your questions, “mansplains,” or responds slowly, collaboration will be difficult once work begins.

A professional listens first, answers in plain English, and sets a reliable schedule for updates.

2. Disrespectful behavior

Professionalism includes how a contractor treats everyone in your household. If they ignore a decision-maker, talk past a woman in the room, or minimize concerns, expect tension later.

Beyond the job of a contractor, you are looking for a partner who is courteous, attentive, and consistent.

3. Badmouthing architects or other pros

Renovations require teamwork among architects, contractors, engineers, and inspectors.

If a contractor says you “don’t need an architect” or disparages other professionals, they may be trying to avoid oversight. Reputable contractors value collaboration because it leads to smoother projects and better outcomes.

Permits protect you and help ensure code compliance. Downplaying or skipping permits to “save time” or money creates real risk:

Fines or stop-work orders
Failed inspections and costly rework
Problems at resale
Limited legal recourse if issues arise

We recently helped a client who had a basement remodeled without permits before they came to us. When they tried to sell the home, the unpermitted work stopped the sale entirely.

Among other issues, they had to make significant structural changes and have an electrician verify that every fixture was properly wired. The process was expensive, stressful, and avoidable.

Bottom line: no permit, no project. A trustworthy contractor handles this without hesitation.

5. Shady payment practices

Be wary of large, upfront payments or requests for cash. A reasonable structure is a modest deposit to book the job, then progress payments tied to milestones (framing, rough-ins, drywall, etc.).

If terms are vague or one-sided, or if full payment is required before work, walk away.

Risky shortcuts and “Chuck in a truck” contractors

Hiring a cousin or a “friend of a friend” can backfire when work fails inspection or ignores code.

On site, shortcuts show up as missing safety measures, rushed installs, and poor finishes. Lower bids can cost more in the long run when you have to fix mistakes.

Are online reviews reliable?
They can reveal patterns, but they don’t replace references from trusted sources. Speaking with past clients and asking your architect for recommendations provides a clearer picture of reliability and professionalism.

Independent architects are client advocates. We:

Recommend reputable contractors with strong track records.
Prepare detailed drawings and specifications that reduce ambiguity.
Help you make decisions before signing a contract, so the contract addresses everything you want and need.
Help you compare apples-to-apples estimates and bids.
Review pay applications and change orders for alignment with the scope.
Act as your advocate during construction.

An architect brings more to the table than drawings. They provide advocacy, and guidance throughout construction. You can read more about the difference between a drafting service and an architect .

Should I hire an architect before a contractor?

In a word, yes. An architect helps you define the scope, set priorities, and avoid costly course corrections before you sign a construction contract.

Look for contractors who:

Communicate clearly and respectfully.
Provide a detailed written scope and contract.
Are transparent about pricing, schedules, and changes.
Pull permits without delay.
Maintain memberships with HBA, NARI, or reputable local groups (e.g., BRAG in Ann Arbor).
Keep a clean, safe, and organized job site.
Use a project management system that fits your preferences—apps or simple calls, as needed.

Your blueprint for hiring the right contractor

Spotting red flags is about more than avoiding headaches; doing so protects your home, budget, and peace of mind.

Watch for communication issues, disrespect, permit evasion, and payment pressure. Seek the green flags, clear contracts, transparent pricing, and professional conduct.

What to ask a contractor before hiring

FAQ: Contractor red flags

Craftsman-style home renovation tips: restore charm, add function

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 16:46:42 GMT

Defining the Craftsman style

Craftsman-style homes are beloved for their timeless charm, rich woodwork, and handcrafted details. Whether it’s the warm glow of quarter-sawn oak or the thoughtful integration of built-ins, these homes have a soul that still resonates today.

But living in a home with history often means navigating outdated layouts or features that no longer fit modern life. At Studio Z Architecture, we help homeowners honor their home’s original character while updating it to support the way they live now. In this post, we’ll explore what defines the Craftsman style, how we approach restoration and remodeling, and what to consider when bringing a century-old home into the present.

Part of the English Arts & Crafts movement, the Craftsman architectural style emerged in USA in the early 20th century. A reaction to the Industrial Revolution, the movement emphasized quality materials, fine craftsmanship, and simplicity over Victorian ornamentation.

It quickly became a cornerstone of American residential design, especially in neighborhoods filled with bungalows and modest single-family homes throughout southeast Michigan, including Ann Arbor and Plymouth. Common features of a Craftsman-style home include:

Materials like quarter-sawn oak, Douglas fir, maple, and cherry add richness and natural warmth to the home.
Built-in elements like bookcases, benches, and cabinetry that blend charm and function.
Tapered columns on masonry piers framing a welcoming front porch.
Wide trim around windows and doors with decorative detailing.
Low-pitched roofs with overhanging eaves, exposed rafters, and deep brackets.
Simple exterior finishes like stucco, clapboard siding, or wood shingles.

Craftsman design values comfort, authenticity, and connection to nature–qualities that remain timeless today.

2. Key materials and finishes

For us, the right balance means preserving character-defining details, porches, low-pitched roofs, exposed rafters, while making updates that enhance comfort and function. The result is a home that feels authentic to its history yet perfectly suited for modern families.

“A big part of our job is asking the right questions about how people actually live. We’re not just copying an old style. We’re modernizing it for their particular needs. You can keep the soul of the house and still make it work beautifully for life today.”

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

Renovating a Craftsman home means working with materials that honor its roots in the Arts and Crafts movement.

Wood : Quarter-sawn oak, Douglas fir, maple, and cherry bring warmth and depth.
Trim and moldings : Restore or replicate original profiles and details, often finished in natural stains or soft neutrals.
Tile : Handcrafted tile from local makers like Motawi Tileworks or Pewabic Pottery adds texture and authenticity.
Fixtures and hardware : Brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and antique brass complement the style, while trendy finishes like matte black or rose gold can feel out of place.

Our Ann Arbor Craftsman Home Renovation demonstrates how finishes can revive character; restoring wood trim and floors, pairing them with new tile and fixtures that respect the home’s history while keeping it current.

3. Sustainability and energy efficiency

Most early Craftsman bungalows weren’t designed for energy efficiency, but there are many ways to improve performance without losing character:

Add insulation to walls and attics, even behind original plaster.
Install energy-efficient windows with historically accurate profiles.
Upgrade HVAC systems discreetly to preserve the home’s original character.
Use LED lighting and water-saving fixtures.

These updates make older homes more comfortable and sustainable while maintaining their architectural integrity.

A Craftsman home that fits the way you live

Craftsman homes endure because they’re thoughtful, honest, and human in scale. Built with care and character, they deserve the same care in return.

At Studio Z Architecture, we specialize in helping homeowners update these beloved homes with respect and creativity. Whether it’s a cozy bungalow or a full two-story Craftsman-style house, our goal is to preserve the heart of the home while adapting it for modern life.

Every Craftsman home has a story. We’d love to help you write the next chapter. Schedule a consultation with Studio Z Architecture to discuss how we can balance your home’s character with your family’s needs.

Craftsman-style homes: restoring character, enhancing function

What to consider before renovating your Craftsman home

Before beginning a renovation, it’s essential to understand what makes your Craftsman home unique and what it needs to shine.

Identify what’s original . Determine which elements—wood trim, built-ins, or light fixtures—can be restored rather than replaced.
Commit to authentic materials . Real wood, handcrafted tile, and historically accurate finishes elevate a renovation, even if they stretch the budget.
Plan for hidden upgrades . Many Craftsman homes need insulation, HVAC, or electrical improvements to meet current standards.
Choose the right design team . Working with architects and contractors experienced in historic design ensures details are preserved with care.

With those things in mind, let's look at three key points you won't want to overlook as you make decisions about your home project:

1. Balancing aesthetics with your lifestyle needs

Renovating a Craftsman bungalow is all about lifestyle. It’s about how you live: how you cook, entertain, relax, and make use of your space. At Studio Z, we begin each project by asking thoughtful questions:

How do you use your kitchen and dining areas?
Do you prefer open spaces or more defined rooms?
Are there heirlooms or collections that deserve display or storage?
Which areas of your home are used most, and how could they serve you better?

This approach will help make your renovation feel personal and livable, blending timeless beauty with everyday practicality.

Balancing modern needs with historic integrity

Homeowners often ask whether to remodel an aging Craftsman bungalow or move to a newer home. At Studio Z, we believe these homes are worth saving. We don’t replicate history for the sake of nostalgia. Instead, we modernize in ways that honor the home’s original spirit.

Early 20th-century layouts often included small kitchens, minimal storage, and closed-off rooms, features that feel impractical today. However, their sturdy structures and handcrafted details offer a strong foundation for updates that respect the past while embracing modern life.

In our energy-efficient Craftsman remodel and expansion , for example, we created built-ins flanking the fireplace and a window seat that looks original but functions beautifully for contemporary living. A built-in bed in the primary suite and a tapered column separating the dining and living spaces echoed traditional detailing while improving flow and usability.

“We talk a lot about function and what people’s needs are, so we’re not just copying an old style. We’re modernizing it for their particular needs.”

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

Common renovation mistakes to avoid

While following the points above will help your renovation balance historical style with modern functionality, there are some common missteps and mistakes that will compromise a Craftsman home’s charm:

Removing porches, built-ins, or trim to chase a modern aesthetic.
Using synthetic or glossy materials that clash with original finishes.
Altering the roof pitch and losing the home’s distinct profile.
Painting over exposed rafters or brackets that define the style.

At Studio Z, we guide clients through all the planning and decisions to preserve authenticity while enhancing livability.

In our project Transforming a Small House into a Big Presence , we maintained the home’s intimate scale while adding thoughtful detailing. It’s proof that proportion and craftsmanship—not size—create presence.

FAQ: About Craftsman homes

Five interior design trends that truly work — and three to rethink

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 13:24:47 GMT

Five home design trends that truly work

When it comes to designing or remodeling a home, you want spaces that make daily life easier, more comfortable, and more beautiful. You deserve a home that doesn’t just look good in photos. It should function beautifully for you and your lifestyle.

With endless inspiration from Instagram, Pinterest, Houzz, and design magazines, it’s easy to find yourself chasing fads or falling in love with ideas that look stunning online. The challenge is translating those ideas into a home that supports your daily routines. At Studio Z Architecture, we help homeowners find the balance between inspiration and practicality.

Some trends are worth embracing because they genuinely improve functionality. Others deserve a closer look before deciding if they’re right for you. Here are five design trends that continue to work well year after year, along with three trends that may be worth rethinking.

For more ideas, download our free Guide to Aging in Place for practical tips on creating a home that supports you now and in the future.

Some home features rise above the buzz because they solve real problems and stand the test of time.

1. Laundry room where you need it

For decades, laundry was tucked into the basement or hidden in the kitchen. Today, more homeowners are moving washers and dryers closer to where laundry actually happens—the bedrooms.

Three tricky design trends to rethink

Some homeowners still prefer having laundry on the main level so they can keep a load moving while prepping dinner or managing daily tasks. We encourage those clients to think about adding at least a small laundry space on the bedroom level as well, which helps avoid carrying full baskets up and down stairs and keeps everyday routines more manageable.

“People are realizing that most of the laundry they create is in the bedroom, not the basement. That shift is driving the demand to bring washers and dryers closer to where clothes actually live.”

– Dayna Tooman, architectural designer at Studio Z Architecture

Not all popular ideas work well in practice. Here are a few features that often look great in photos but come with practical drawbacks:

Barn doors on bathrooms: Stylish, but they don’t provide enough privacy from sound, light, or smells. They’re better suited to spaces like pantries or dining rooms.
Chandeliers above tubs: Beautiful, but often prohibited by building code due to safety risks. Consider a statement light elsewhere in the bathroom.
Freestanding tubs: Spa-like and dramatic, but harder to clean around and more expensive to install due to specialized plumbing.

How to evaluate interior design trends

When deciding whether to include a "trendy" design element in your home, it helps to ask yourself:

Does it fit your lifestyle ?
Will it be relatively easy to refresh and update it as your needs and style change in the future?
Does it balance beauty and function?

“Not every trend ages well. Think about floral wallpaper or sponge paint from the ’90s—those looked great at the time, but without some updates over the years, these can make a home feel outdated. Clean lines and natural finishes tend to stand the test of time.”

– Dayna Tooman, architectural designer at Studio Z Architecture

At Studio Z, our goal is to help you weigh these choices with confidence. We guide you toward design decisions that enhance your comfort, fit your routines, and maintain their appeal for years to come.

Designing a home that fits you

Some design trends become popular because they make daily life easier and more enjoyable; others are best admired in a magazine spread. Every home is as unique as its homeowner, and thoughtful design begins with understanding how you want to live.

That might mean moving the laundry closer to the bedrooms, designing a dream pantry, or adding details that let you stay comfortably in your home for decades to come. At Studio Z Architecture, we guide clients through every step of that process, balancing creativity, practicality, and personal value. The result is a home that not only looks beautiful but feels truly your own.

Most requested home interior design trends

(and why you might want them, too)

2. Pantries with purpose

The standard three-foot-wide pantry cabinet may no longer meet the needs of modern households. With families cooking more at home and buying in bulk, walk-in or even dual pantries have become a top request.

Many homeowners now opt for butler’s pantries or secondary prep spaces equipped with extra appliances like a second refrigerator or microwave. A secondary prep space is also a great place to keep small appliances you rarely use, like your crock pot or stand mixer. These spaces feel like luxuries but offer tremendous functionality and organization.

“We saw the pandemic accelerate the shift toward bigger, more functional pantries. Families were cooking at home more, buying in bulk, and suddenly that three-foot-wide pantry cabinet just didn’t cut it anymore.”

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

3. Designing to age in place

As housing costs rise, more homeowners are planning to stay in their homes for the long haul. That’s leading to a growing demand for design features, such as main-floor bedrooms, wider doorways, and curbless showers, that make aging in place both comfortable and dignified. Instead of waiting to add these features later, homeowners are integrating them into remodels or new homes to make daily living easier now—and in the future.

“What makes aging-in-place design powerful is that it benefits you today as much as it does in the future.”

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

These details don’t just add safety; they add flexibility. A main-floor bedroom can serve as a guest room or office until it’s needed for accessibility. A zero-step entry helps whether you’re carrying groceries, pushing a stroller, or walking with a cane.

4. Minimalist living with personality

Decluttering isn’t just a trend. It’s become a way to create calm, organized spaces that are easy to maintain. Clean lines, natural finishes, and smart storage reduce visual clutter and bring a sense of ease. But minimal doesn’t have to mean sterile .

The key is balance. A neutral backdrop lets your personality shine through in well-chosen pieces, perhaps a sculptural light fixture, bold sofa, or a treasured heirloom . Younger homeowners especially are prioritizing experiences and meaningful items over “more stuff.” The result is a home that feels lighter, simpler to maintain, and distinctly personal .

5. A return to color

After years of gray-on-gray interiors, many homeowners are ready for warmth and personality. Richer tones, creative textures, and patterns are making their way back into everyday design. Old favorites like paneling, wallpaper, and velvet upholstery are being reimagined in modern ways. Even ceilings are joining the fun—with painted contrasts, wood accents, or wallpapered detail.

Not ready for bold walls or ceilings? Try introducing color through rugs, pillows, and artwork. These are easy, low-commitment ways to experiment while keeping your home adaptable over time.

Your home should fit you—not the other way around.

Book a consultation with Studio Z Architecture to start designing a space that supports the way you want to live, now and in the future.

Planning a remodel? Read our Blending Old and New Architecture Guide for more tips on designing a home that feels seamless and timeless.

FAQ: Most requested home design trends

Blending old and new architecture

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:02:47 GMT

At Studio Z, we believe that matching styles in a remodel isn’t about copying the past. It’s about honoring the original design while creating something fresh, functional, and cohesive.

How to match styles for a home remodel that feels seamless

Remodeling your home should feel exciting and not like you’re taking a gamble with its character.

But too often, homeowners worry that a much-needed addition or update will stick out rather than blend in. Maybe it’s a mismatched roofline. Maybe it’s siding that feels off. Or maybe it’s that gut feeling when something just doesn’t look right.

We hear this all the time from clients who love their homes but are nervous about what comes next. They don’t want their remodel to look “obvious.” They want it to feel seamless—like it’s always been there.

That’s where thoughtful architectural design makes all the difference.

“The biggest compliment I get is when someone says they can’t tell where the addition starts — that’s when I know we did our job right.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

Your home tells a story. Whether it was built in the 1920s or the 1990s, it carries architectural cues that shape how it looks, feels, and functions. A thoughtful remodel respects that story, especially when working with homes that feature historic architecture.

Many of our clients come to us specifically because they love their home’s character and want any changes to feel intentional—not tacked on.

They don’t want a disjointed addition that sticks out like a sore thumb. They want something that looks like it’s always been there.

Preserving architectural character isn’t just about aesthetics. It can also protect and even increase home value.

And it’s not just older generations who care. A recent survey found that 97% of millennials value historic preservation , showing a strong preference for neighborhoods with authentic, historic character.

Techniques for seamless integration of the new with the old

So how do you actually make a new addition feel like it’s always been there? It comes down to careful observation, thoughtful design, and respect for the home’s original details.

Here’s how we approach it at Studio Z.

1. Study and mirror the original design

Before we even begin designing, we take time to carefully analyze what makes the home distinct.

That might be the width of the siding, the shape of the eaves, the pitch of the roof, or the way trim is layered around the windows. These elements aren’t just aesthetic details—they define the home’s character.

“We take time to understand what gives a home its character — the trim, the rooflines, the siding — and we echo those elements so the new work feels like it’s always been there.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

By mirroring these details, the new structure integrates naturally with the old — creating continuity rather than competition.

2. Balance between old and new

Matching doesn’t mean you’re locked into the past. Sometimes, clients want to incorporate more contemporary architecture into an older home.

When done thoughtfully, these elements can enhance functionality and introduce a fresh perspective while still aligning with the original structure.

This can mean bringing the original home up to date so it aligns with the addition, or selectively introducing modern touches in a way that still respects the overall aesthetic.

“You can absolutely modernize — but you still need to respect the existing architecture. Either the new matches the old, or the old gets a thoughtful update to match the new.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

3. Material and color selection

Even small choices in materials can make a big difference in how unified a remodel feels.

We look closely at textures, siding exposure, window styles, and roofing materials to ensure consistency. When using newer materials, we seek options that mimic or complement traditional ones—offering the benefits of modern technology without sacrificing authenticity.

Color also plays a crucial role. Selecting a palette that reflects the home’s era and architectural style helps tie everything together, inside and out.

We work hard to ensure that the finished project feels timeless, not trendy.

Common mistakes homeowners make

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to overlook the subtle details that make a remodel feel cohesive.

Here are a few of the most common pitfalls we see and how to avoid them.

1. Ignoring the details

It’s easy to get caught up in big-picture decisions like square footage or layout and miss the smaller details that truly define a home’s character.

Roof pitch, trim width, siding exposure, window proportions—these may seem minor, but they’re the visual glue that holds a home’s style together.

Overlooking these elements can make even a well-built addition feel out of place. For example, a roof with a shallower or steeper pitch than the original can throw off the balance of the entire elevation.

When those mismatches stack up, the result is a remodel that feels disjointed rather than deliberate.

2. Disproportionate elements

Sometimes the issue isn’t what gets added—it’s how.

One of the most common mistakes we see is using features that are the wrong scale for the original home. A narrow column on a Craftsman-style porch or oversized windows on a modest bungalow can unintentionally undermine the home’s authenticity.

“It’s not just about materials — it’s about proportions. Skinny porch columns on a traditional home can throw everything off visually, even if people can’t articulate why.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

Getting scale and proportion right requires a trained eye. These are the kinds of decisions that can elevate a remodel from "acceptable" to "architecturally seamless."

3. Lack of architectural guidance

DIY renovations and contractor-led designs often skip the design process altogether or rely too heavily on Pinterest trends without thinking about how they’ll fit into the existing structure.

Without a strong architectural vision , it’s easy to make choices that clash with the home’s style or layout. Whether you’re looking to renovate a single room or add a full wing, working with an architect ensures your updates feel cohesive and intentional.

A good architect doesn’t just design new spaces; they make sure those spaces belong, aesthetically, structurally, and historically, to the home they’re part of.

The role of an architect in matching style

A remodel is more than a construction project, it’s a design dialogue. And your architect is more than someone who draws up plans.

At Studio Z, we see ourselves as interpreters of your home’s story. We listen carefully to what your house is saying—and what you want it to say—and translate that into a design that feels authentic, cohesive, and uniquely yours.

Matching architectural styles isn’t just about replicating details. It’s about understanding what makes your home feel the way it does, and designing new spaces that align with that spirit.

Architecture doesn’t just shape how a home feels. It shapes how others perceive it, including potential buyers. One study even found that architectural variables significantly impact home values , reinforcing the importance of thoughtful, cohesive design decisions — especially when blending old and new.

An experienced architect knows how to blend old and new in a way that maintains architectural integrity while reflecting your lifestyle and goals.

We also help homeowners navigate the flood of inspiration that’s out there, from Pinterest boards to Houzz galleries to design magazines. Those platforms are fantastic for ideas, but without context, they can lead to mismatched choices that don’t quite fit your home’s bones.

“A good architect will help you see the difference between inspiration and appropriation — Pinterest is great for ideas, but your home deserves something that truly fits.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

At the end of the day, a remodel should feel intentional and personal—not trendy or forced. That’s the value of working with an architect who understands both design principles and the emotional connection you have to your home.

Real-world examples from Studio Z

These remodels highlight what happens when style matching is done well. Where additions and updates feel like a natural extension of the home, rather than an afterthought.

At Studio Z, we approach each project as a collaboration between the past and present, carefully tailoring solutions to both the architecture and the homeowner’s lifestyle .

Here are four real-world examples that show how we’ve helped clients achieve additions that feel just right.

Ann Arbor Craftsman Renovation

This is a client favorite—and one of ours, too. The home is a classic Craftsman with rich character and strong architectural language.

Our challenge? Add space and functionality without compromising its cohesive feel.

We studied the original design carefully, replicating everything from the roof pitch and siding width to the window trim and detailing.

The result is an addition so seamless, guests often don’t realize it’s not part of the original structure. We often show this project when we present our proposals to illustrate what’s possible when additions are truly integrated with care and intention.

Wright-Inspired Ranch

This mid-century home came with strong stylistic bones inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright . But also had a few quirky updates over the years that didn’t quite fit, including an outdated bathroom we lovingly referred to as the “Austin Powers bathroom.”

Our goal was to honor the original spirit of the home while correcting those mismatches.

We focused on echoing the horizontal lines, material palette, and craftsmanship that defined the original style. While we didn’t replicate everything exactly, we were intentional about the elements we carried forward, especially in the porch addition, which now feels like it’s always been part of the design.

The result is a comfortable, cohesive space that reflects the home's history, with a modernized, thoughtful twist.

The Big 10 House

This home had undergone a remodel in the 1950s that stripped away much of its original character.

The client reached out to us for a practical update — the carport was deteriorating — but also wanted help bringing back the historic charm that had been lost over time.

We redesigned the carport to better match the home's proportions and helped the owners reimagine the exterior to align with its Victorian-era roots.

Working closely with an interior designer, we selected a color palette that complemented the architecture while avoiding the overly bold hues the family’s college-age son had originally proposed.

The result was a home that felt vibrant, personal, and architecturally grounded — a major visual transformation that still felt true to the neighborhood.

This home was a great candidate for a vertical addition, but only if it could be done with precision and restraint. Every detail, from the trim to the windows to the siding, needed to match the existing structure to maintain its character and scale.

We took a detail-oriented approach, carefully replicating the architectural elements so the new portion of the home would feel original.

The result was so cohesive, the project was featured on the cover of a local Remodelers Council Guide. Inside and out, the home feels balanced and complete, with added functionality that blends effortlessly with the existing layout and style.

Ann Arbor Hills Remodel

When is it okay to modernize?

Not every remodel needs to be a historical reenactment. Updating is absolutely okay — in fact, it’s often necessary for function, comfort, and energy efficiency.

When modern architecture is introduced with care, it can complement and elevate a traditional home beautifully.

The key is intentionality. A well-executed contemporary addition can offer modern amenities and updated aesthetics while still respecting the home's historical charm.

What works:

Modern windows that echo original proportions
Updated materials that mimic traditional finishes
Contemporary interiors within period-appropriate shells

What doesn’t:

High-contrast additions that ignore scale
Mismatched materials that feel jarring
Unconsidered changes that diminish the home’s charm

Remodels that respect the past and embrace the future

At Studio Z, we believe the best remodels are rooted in respect—for the home, for the client’s vision, and for good design.

When you match styles well, you’re not just preserving a look; you’re honoring a legacy while shaping a future. A remodel should feel like a natural continuation of your home’s story, not a rewrite.

That’s the Studio Z difference: thoughtful, collaborative, and always centered on what makes your home yours.

Thinking about a remodel? Let’s create something beautiful together—something that feels like it’s always been a part of your home. Contact us today !

Why blending architecture styles matters

“If someone wants an addition that stands out in a flashy, disconnected way, we’re probably not the right fit. Our focus is on harmony and continuity.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

❛❛

Having fallen in love with our house for its original craftsman-style charm and abundant natural light, we wanted our new addition to preserve those elements, while creating a contemporary feel and expanding the kitchen and bathroom spaces. True to their reputation for excelling at such projects, Studio Z came up with an award-winning design that fully embodied the aesthetic and function we envisioned.

• Ann Arbor Homeowners

FAQ: Blending Old and New in Home Remodels

Designing the in-between: Indoor-outdoor living for northern climates

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:20:56 GMT

In this article, we’ll explore what defines a great indoor-outdoor space, how Studio Z approaches design for northern climates like the Ann Arbor area, and the thoughtful details that turn two spaces—indoor and outdoor—into one harmonious experience.

A porch for coffee at sunrise. A sunroom filled with natural light. A view through tall windows that frames trees, sky, and quiet movement.

These are not just visual perks—they’re experiences that elevate your daily life and take advantage of your outdoor living space.

At Studio Z Architecture, we believe indoor-outdoor living isn’t just a trend—it’s about connection, well-being, and creating space that truly reflects how you want to live.

What defines an indoor-outdoor space?

What’s the difference between a sunroom and a three-season room?

While both create beautiful transitions between indoor and outdoor living, they differ in how and when they’re used. A sunroom is fully insulated and usually heated, making it comfortable year-round. A three-season room is designed for use during spring, summer, and fall, with lighter materials and less thermal protection. We guide clients toward the best option based on their lifestyle, home layout, and budget.

“When we create strong visual and physical connections to the outdoors, it makes the entire home feel more spacious and more alive. People are naturally drawn to light, greenery, and fresh air—it’s how we recharge.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

At its core, indoor-outdoor living is about creating a stronger connection between your home and the world just outside your door.

These spaces extend your daily routines—meals, reading, relaxing—into nature, whether through open-air rooms or thoughtfully framed views.

Some indoor-outdoor spaces invite you to step outside:

A three-season room with sliding screens and cozy lounge furniture
A sunroom filled with light all year long
A deck or covered porch that acts like an outdoor living room

Others bring the outdoors in, even if you never leave the house:

Large windows that frame a view
Skylights that pull in natural light
Garden views from a kitchen sink or breakfast nook

When natural beauty is part of what makes a house feel like home, these elements help you enjoy the landscape throughout the seasons—comfortably and effortlessly.

Why indoor-outdoor living is essential in northern climates

In places like southeast Michigan, including the Ann Arbor area, long winters dominate much of the year.

That makes indoor-outdoor living space even more valuable. When warm weather finally arrives, having spaces designed to extend your living area into the outdoors can dramatically change how you enjoy your home.

“In the Midwest, our outdoor season is limited, which makes it even more important to create spaces you can enjoy during those precious months—sunrooms, screened porches, or decks that feel like an extension of your home.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

When is the best time to start a project like this in Michigan?

Construction can happen year-round in Michigan with the right preparation—even in winter. While tasks like excavation or pouring concrete are more complex during colder months, experienced contractors often take steps to keep projects moving through all seasons.

That said, if you’re hoping to break ground in late spring or early summer, the best time to begin the design process is in the fall. A realistic project timeline often spans six months or more, accounting for design development, contractor estimates, construction documents, permit approvals, contract negotiation, and ordering materials.

At Studio Z, we help clients navigate that full process—so when construction season arrives, you’re ready to move forward with clarity and confidence.

Design tailored to your lifestyle

At Studio Z, every indoor-outdoor space begins with a conversation:

How do you want to use the space? Entertaining? Reading? Dining with friends? Working from a breezy porch?

Some clients want a dining area for entertaining, while others imagine a quiet lounge space to relax and read with a breeze coming through the screens

“Every client is different, so we start with how they want to live. Whether it’s hosting dinner outside or reading a book on the porch, the design should match their lifestyle.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

In the Ann Arbor area, we see clients using these spaces in creative ways—from family-friendly screened rooms to quiet retreats overlooking wooded lots.

Creating seamless transitions between inside and out

Designing a strong connection between indoor and outdoor areas involves more than installing a door—it’s about framing views, choosing the right access points, and blending materials and color palettes.

Options we often explore with Ann Arbor homeowners:

Sliding glass doors with wide openings and integrated screens
French doors for charm and character
Bi-fold or pivot doors like NanaWall (luxurious and climate-sensitive)

“The type of door or window you choose matters, but so do the details around it—trim color, framing, even how the space connects to the rest of your home. These are the choices that make the transition between indoors and outdoors feel effortless.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

Instead of treating the house and yard as two spaces, we think of them as one continuous environment with different functions and moods.

What if you don’t have the space to build a porch or sunroom?

Enhancing comfort year-round

Indoor-outdoor living in Michigan requires thoughtful planning to maximize usability in spring, summer, and fall—and sometimes even winter.

Common solutions we’ve used in Ann Arbor area homes:

Ceiling-mounted or freestanding heaters
Retractable awnings or permanent shade structures
Landscaping for privacy and microclimate control

These design elements ensure your porch or patio doesn’t sit unused for half the year.

What materials work best for indoor-outdoor living in northern climates?

Biophilic design and indoor-outdoor wellness

We now know what designers long suspected: light, greenery, and natural views are essential to mental and physical health. A 2019 study involving nearly 20,000 people found that just 120 minutes a week spent in nature significantly boosts both physical and mental well-being . Even shorter exposures can help— sessions of 20 to 90 minutes outdoors , whether gardening or simply enjoying the view, have been shown to lower stress and support mental health.

For many Ann Arbor homeowners, proximity to nature is part of why they chose to live where they do, and indoor-outdoor living helps strengthen that connection. Incorporating biophilic elements into the home, like large windows, indoor plants, or natural materials, doesn't just enhance beauty—it supports cognitive function, improves mood, and reduces anxiety. It’s more than a trend; it’s a wellness strategy rooted in both intuition and evidence.

Even without building outward, you can create the feeling of an indoor-outdoor living space. Enlarged or repositioned windows can frame outdoor views, skylights bring in sky and light, and French or sliding doors improve access to patios or gardens. Small design moves—like adding a bench near a window or surrounding yourself with greenery—can go a long way in creating a sense of connection.

The Ann Arbor area sees all four seasons, so we prioritize materials that hold up in a range of conditions. For decks and porches, we often recommend composite decking that resists rot and warping. For transitions between inside and out, non-slip tile, thermally broken windows and doors, and weather-resistant screens all play a role in keeping your space usable and comfortable year-round.

“There’s so much research now supporting what we’ve always felt intuitively: When we can see the sky, trees, and sunlight from inside, it has a real impact on our well-being.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

Collaboration brings the outdoors to life

While we design the structure of porches, decks, and sunrooms, we often collaborate with landscape architects who specialize in shaping the outdoor environment.

A great example is our Tailored Ranch Remodel , right here in southeast Michigan, where Studio Z added both front and back porches. We also recommended a trusted landscape architect to help the homeowner shape the outdoor spaces into something functional and inviting.

Our design for this remodeled home focused on how the rooms flow from inside to out—especially in the kitchen, where four large windows above the sink provide a framed view of the gardens. This small detail turns a daily routine into something restorative and connected to nature.

The result is a thoughtful combination of architecture and landscape that feels unified—whether you're sipping coffee on the porch or washing dishes with a view.

Reimagine your living space, inside and out

Indoor-outdoor living isn’t just about building something new—it’s about rethinking how your home can support the way you want to live. Whether it’s adding a porch, designing a sunroom, or simply reframing the view from your kitchen window, thoughtful design can bring light, beauty, and balance to everyday moments.

Throughout this post, you've seen how the right materials, layout, and seasonal strategies can make indoor-outdoor living not only possible—but deeply enjoyable—even in a northern climate like Ann Arbor’s.

“Decades ago, a door to the backyard was enough. Today, we’re much more intentional. We design for connection—to light, to nature, and to the rhythms of daily life.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

If you’re considering how to expand your home’s potential—through a sunroom, three-season room, or integrated outdoor living space—Studio Z is here to help. We take the time to understand your lifestyle, your climate, and your goals, then design a space that brings it all together.

Let’s talk about how to bring the outdoors in—and bring your vision to life.
Contact us today to get started.

FAQ: Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces for Northern Climates

Home architecture design tips: Add privacy without closing off your space

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 20:53:33 GMT

Finding the right balance between public and private spaces

Every home includes a mix of public, semi-private, and private spaces, but how they are arranged makes all the difference in your daily comfort and interactions.

Public spaces: The entryway, porch, or foyer, where guests are welcomed. These areas set the tone for your home’s interior design and how open or private it feels.

Semi-private spaces: Living rooms, kitchens, and guest baths—areas that balance social interaction with personal comfort.

Private spaces: Bedrooms, primary baths, home offices—your retreat from the outside world, where solitude and relaxation are a priority.

Ideally, your home provides a smooth transition between private and public areas. Each space should feel intentional, offering both comfort and functionality.

By thoughtfully defining these spaces, you can ensure your home fosters both connection and privacy where needed.

Define the natural flow between spaces

A well-designed home ensures that public spaces feel welcoming while maintaining a natural transition into more private spaces, creating a sense of retreat when needed. The placement of these areas influences everything from how easily guests can move through your home to how much separation you have from noise and activity.

A thoughtful architectural layout can help incorporate privacy where you need it most—whether that means a tucked-away home office, a quiet reading nook, or a primary suite that serves as a sanctuary from the rest of the household.

How do you use your home?

Before making any architectural decisions, take a step back and consider how you and other occupants move through and use different spaces.

Where do you entertain? In the kitchen, living room, or an outdoor courtyard?

Do you need a quiet area for work or relaxation?

How might your level of privacy needs evolve over time as children grow or household dynamics change?

Designing for privacy: How architecture shapes a more private home

Privacy is an essential part of home design, influencing everything from how you interact with the outside world to the way you experience different spaces inside your home.

The challenge for any architect you might hire is to create a balance between public and private areas, ensuring that each space meets your needs for both connection and solitude.

Too much openness can leave you feeling exposed, while too much separation can make a home feel disconnected. Thoughtful architectural choices can help you achieve your ideal level of privacy without sacrificing natural light, functionality, or aesthetics.

Whether you’re designing a new home or rethinking your current layout, this guide explores how to incorporate privacy solutions into your space while maintaining a sense of openness.

Architecture solutions to enhance privacy

The way a home is designed can greatly influence how sound, movement, and natural light affect your sense of privacy within the space. Incorporating smart architectural solutions can help define areas of separation without making the home feel closed off.

Designed for flexible flow and function

Creating a sense of privacy in an open-concept home doesn’t always mean building walls.

Using built-in cabinetry to separate spaces create architectural interest along with storage and privacy, as in the new cabinets, bookcase, and desktop we designed into the remodel of this Craftsman-era home in Ann Arbor .

One of the most effective and space-saving options is pocket doors. Unlike traditional swinging doors, pocket doors slide into the wall and don't require clear floor space to swing open and closed.

This type of door is especially useful in interior spaces like home offices, media rooms, or reading nooks, where occasional privacy is valuable but a fully enclosed room might feel too isolated. Pocket French doors–with transparent or translucent glass panels–offer the best of both worlds: visual connection and acoustic separation.

Other great architectural solutions include sliding barn doors, which add character while allowing flexible separation, and built-in open shelving, which provide storage while maintaining a visual connection between spaces.

With thoughtful space planning and design, you can adapt your space to suit different needs and enjoy the benefits of both privacy and openness throughout the day.

Keep noise under control

While open floor plans create a sense of openness, they can also bring privacy concerns when it comes to noise.

Sound carries more easily in large, open spaces, making it important to incorporate materials that help with sound absorption. Soft surfaces like rugs, curtains, and upholstered furniture can reduce noise levels and make shared spaces feel quieter.

For a higher level of privacy, insulated walls and solid or insulated doors can provide an extra barrier. This helps keep noise from high-traffic areas from disrupting quieter, more private spaces like bedrooms or home offices.

“The way you place your windows can completely change how private or exposed a space feels. High windows bring in natural light and ventilation without sacrificing privacy, and thoughtful window placement can let you feel connected to the outdoors without putting your personal space on display.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

Making design choices that work for you

Your ideal level of privacy depends on how you use your home.

Ask yourself:

Do you need private spaces for work or relaxation?
Do you want to monitor kids while giving them independence?
Are there certain areas where you want to control visibility from the outside world?
How does your home’s location and landscape affect privacy? Could you use hedges, trees, or fencing to add an extra layer of seclusion?

Working with an architect can help you feel more confident that every design choice aligns with your personal needs.

If you're wondering what to expect when hiring an architect, this Studio Z blog article walks you through the steps, so you feel prepared and confident in the journey.

Designing for privacy: Trade-offs to consider

It's all about finding the right balance between openness and separation. While certain architectural choices enhance privacy, they may also introduce other considerations that affect the overall feel of your home.

Privacy vs. Open flow – A more private space often means a more compartmentalized layout, which can create a sense of separation. While this enhances privacy, it can also limit the airy, connected feel that many homeowners love in open-concept designs.
Natural light vs. Privacy concerns – Large windows flood a space with natural light, but they may also require additional treatments like frosted glass, bottom-up shades, or strategic window placement to maintain privacy.
Sound privacy vs. Open floorplan – Insulated walls and solid doors help reduce noise, making them ideal for bedrooms and home offices. However, too many barriers can make a home feel closed off.
Flexible solutions for an open-concept home – If maintaining openness is a priority, consider courtyards, screened outdoor spaces, flexible partitions, or pocket doors. These architectural features allow for privacy when needed while keeping your home feeling bright and spacious.

By thoughtfully integrating these elements, you can have a home that provides the perfect mix of connection and retreat.

Bringing it all together: A home that feels like yours

A well-designed home finds the perfect balance between public and private spaces.

By incorporating thoughtful interior design elements, strategic window placement, and flexible separation techniques, you can create a home that provides both connection and retreat.

Let’s bring your vision to life! Contact Studio Z Architecture to start designing a home that is truly yours.

“Privacy means different things to different people. It’s not just about blocking out the outside world—it’s also about how spaces inside your home connect or separate.

A well-designed home lets you choose when to be together and when to have solitude.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

Using natural light without compromising privacy

A well-designed home incorporates natural light while addressing privacy concerns. Your home’s location plays a significant role in how you approach privacy in window placement. In urban settings, where homes are built closer together, finding ways to bring in natural light without sacrificing privacy is essential.

One effective solution is placing high windows on side walls, allowing daylight to filter in without creating direct sight lines into your home. This approach, commonly seen in older city homes, helps maintain a comfortable level of privacy while keeping interiors bright and open.

In rural settings, the surrounding landscape often provides built-in screening, allowing for larger windows that maximize views and openness without the same privacy concerns.

Whether you're framing a scenic backyard or taking advantage of tree cover, careful planning ensures that your home remains connected to the outside world while preserving a sense of seclusion.

Smart window design for privacy

Beyond location, the way you design and position your windows can significantly impact how private or exposed a space feels. High windows above nightstands in bedrooms are a simple yet effective way to introduce natural light and ventilation while maintaining a strong level of privacy. A well-placed window can brighten a space without making your private areas feel visible from the outside.

For areas that require more privacy, solutions like frosted glass and bottom-up shades provide an extra layer of discretion. Frosted or textured glass allows light to filter through while obscuring views, making it an ideal choice for bathrooms or other private spaces. Bottom-up shades offer flexibility, letting you adjust coverage while still enjoying daylight.

The difference between working with an architect or a draftsperson

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 05:50:04 GMT

What is the difference between an architect and a draftsperson?

At first glance, architects and drafters may seem to offer similar services since both produce drawings. However, the scope of their work, expertise, and level of responsibility differ significantly.

In this section, we’ll explore the key differences between the two, including level of education, certification requirements, and the type of services they provide.

Understanding these distinctions will help you determine which professional best fits your needs.

1. Design vs. drawing

The fundamental difference between an architect and a draftsperson is their approach to the design process.

A drafter focuses on producing technical drawings based strictly on the client’s requests. If a homeowner provides a rough sketch or idea, the draftsperson will translate it into a set of CAD drawings , usually without questioning the feasibility or long-term functionality of the design.

An architect, however, takes a more comprehensive approach. Instead of simply drafting what a client asks for, an architect considers the broader vision—how the home will function over time, how the spaces will flow, whether the design aligns with the homeowner’s lifestyle, and even how furniture will fit into the spaces.

Architects also evaluate important factors such as structural integrity, zoning laws, and building codes to ensure that the final design is not only beautiful but also safe and efficient. This holistic approach helps homeowners make more informed decisions and ultimately leads to a home that is both functional and future-proof.

Why hiring an architect is more than just getting blueprints

When planning your dream home or major renovation project, many homeowners assume they can save money by hiring a draftsperson instead of an architect. After all, both provide drawings—so what’s the difference?

The reality is that an architect does far more than just draft a house plan.

A drafting service might be the right choice in certain situations, but for homeowners looking for a well-designed, efficient, and adaptable home, working with an architect offers lasting value.

In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between architects and drafters, explore the risks of choosing a drafting service over an architect, and help you determine when hiring an architect is the right choice for your home plan.

Note: This perspective comes from our experience. While we have not worked for or hired a drafting service, we have seen firsthand the differences in results through clients who have worked with both.

2. Level of education and certification

The path to becoming an architect is long and rigorous, requiring years of formal education, hands-on experience, and testing.

Architects must earn a professional degree, complete a three-year internship, and pass a licensing exam before they can legally practice. Additionally, architects must continue their education throughout their careers to stay updated on building codes, construction methods, and design innovations.

A draftsperson, on the other hand, does not need a formal degree or license.

Most drafters receive technical training in CAD software through a certificate program, a community college, or on-the-job experience. While some may have a strong understanding of drafting principles, they are not required to meet the same educational or professional standards as architects.

Because of this, a draftsperson can produce a house plan or construction drawings, but they do not specialize in the more complex aspects of the building process, such as zoning regulations, structural engineering, or future adaptability.

3. Legal & licensing considerations

Hiring a licensed architect offers an added layer of protection for homeowners because licensure itself comes with responsibility and oversight.

Architects are regulated by a state licensing board that enforces professional standards and can investigate and discipline practitioners who violate the state’s practice act. This means clients have a formal avenue for accountability if something goes wrong.

In contrast, drafting services are not licensed by the state, and draftspersons are not held to the same regulatory standards.

While some drafters may carry liability insurance or have extensive experience creating home plans, they are not subject to the same legal or ethical oversight. This lack of regulation means that if a problem arises, homeowners may have fewer options for recourse.

Working with a licensed architect means choosing someone who is bound by a professional code and held accountable for their work—not just in practice, but by law.

4. Service vs. product

A drafting service is primarily focused on delivering a product—the drawing.

Homeowners who hire a drafter typically receive a set of construction plans that represent their vision as they described it. However, without a deeper exploration of needs, challenges, and opportunities, the final design may not be the best possible solution.

An architect, by contrast, offers a service that extends far beyond drafting.

Architects work closely with homeowners to understand how they live, what they value, and how their needs may change over time. They don’t just provide house plans—they guide clients through the building process, helping them weigh options, anticipate challenges, and create a home that is both beautiful and functional.

“When you hire a drafting service, you’re essentially paying for a set of blueprints. When you work with an architect, you’re investing in a service—one that helps you make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and design a home that truly fits your life.”

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

The risks of cutting corners with drafting services

While a drafter may seem like a budget-friendly choice, there are risks associated with choosing a drafting service over a licensed architect.

Here are the top 3 risks:

Limited expertise in spatial planning – A draftsperson focuses on producing drawings but may lack the design expertise to create a home with seamless flow, functionality, and efficiency tailored to your lifestyle.
Lack of construction & systems knowledge – Many draftspeople don’t fully understand zoning laws, construction needs, structural integrity, or mechanical systems, resulting in plans that don’t fully account for real-world building challenges and may not be feasible to build.
Minimal materials & finishings consideration – Drafting services typically don’t account for specific material and finish selections in their plan, which can lead to unintended aesthetic or functional issues that impact the final result of your home.

The value of an architect’s holistic approach

A custom home isn’t just about a house plan—it’s about designing a space that fits your life, both now and in the future.

Architects provide:

Collaboration & exploration: Through conversation and expert guidance, architects help clients refine their vision.
Future-proofing: Architects design homes to be adaptable for growing families, aging in place, and evolving needs.
Beyond aesthetics: Good design is about functionality, efficiency, and sustainability, not just appearance.

“Our job isn’t just to draw what a client asks for—it’s to help them see the bigger picture. We ask questions, challenge assumptions, and think through how a home will function for years to come. Good design isn’t about what looks good on paper; it’s about what works in real life.”

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

At Studio Z Architecture, we guide clients through every step of the building process, from the initial design concepts to final construction details. Our goal is to ensure that every home is both beautiful and practical, reflecting each homeowner’s unique lifestyle. Learn more about our process here .

The cost factor: You get what you pay for

Hiring a drafting service may seem like a cost-effective option, but the lower upfront price can lead to unexpected expenses during construction.

A drafter creates drawings based on client instructions, but without deep knowledge of structural integrity, zoning laws, or energy efficiency, critical details can be overlooked. This can result in costly modifications when contractors discover impractical designs or when permitting authorities require revisions.

Beyond construction costs, a house plan that lacks professional insight can lead to inefficient layouts that don’t function well over time.

A draftsperson may draft rooms exactly as requested, but without considering traffic flow, storage, or long-term adaptability. Homeowners often realize too late that their space isn’t as functional as they expected—leading to expensive renovations in the future.

While a drafting service may seem like a budget-friendly choice, investing in an architect ensures a custom home that is well-planned, efficient, and built to last—ultimately saving money and frustration in the long run.

When drafting services fall short: A real-life example

One of our clients initially hired a drafting service to remodel their home but later came to us for a redesign. The problems we found in the design included:

The measurements of the original house were inaccurate. In one part of the house, the drawing was 2’ larger than the actual room.
The house plan included an oversized addition that didn’t suit the family's needs. This was space the client would pay to build, furnish, heat, cool, and clean that they didn’t really need.
The layout combined spaces inefficiently, making them less functional.
The drafter proposed removing the entire roof, possibly due to a lack of structural knowledge—this would have:
Altered the home’s exterior in a way the owners didn’t want.
Damaged the coved plaster ceilings they loved.
Resulted in unnecessary expenses and longer construction time.

Studio Z’s redesign

Although our client paid more for our architectural services, they ultimately saved money in construction costs and ended up with a home that truly worked for them.

Our redesign included:

Smarter space planning that created distinct living areas.
Preserved the roof (and coved ceilings), saving the homeowners unnecessary costs.
Added thoughtful details like vaulted ceilings and better entryways.
Improved separation of the children’s bedrooms from the main living space for better functionality and acoustics.

This is the difference between working with an architect and simply hiring a draftsperson to draft a home plan.

For those considering the financial aspects, our post, " How much does an architect cost? " , provides a detailed breakdown of architectural fees and the value they bring to a project.

Choose the right professional for your home

If you only need a drawing, a drafting service may seem like a reasonable choice.

However, if you want a custom home or a major remodel that is thoughtfully designed for functionality, efficiency, and long-term adaptability, hiring an architect is the better investment.

Unlike a draftsperson, who simply drafts what is requested, an architect brings expertise in design, construction, and problem-solving to create a home that truly works for the people who live in it.

At Studio Z Architecture, we specialize in designing homes that are not only beautiful but also functional and future-proof. Choosing the right professional can make all the difference in how your home looks, feels, and serves your needs for years to come.

Ready to invest in a home that truly fits your life? Work with an architect who can guide you through every step of the journey. Contact Studio Z today!

Ideas to maximize space in your small house – Expert tips for new builds and remodels

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 06:06:43 GMT

Remove the Clutter

Decluttering is the quickest and easiest way to create more space. Think of it like hitting the reset button for your home. By letting go of things you don’t need or use, you’ll not only free up physical space but also create room for better design ideas to come to life.

"Decluttering is about more than just organizing—it’s about creating breathing room for your home and your creativity."

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

Rethink How Much Space You Really Need

Bigger doesn’t always mean better. Often, it’s not more square footage you need—it’s a smarter layout. Consider how your home can work harder for you. With the right design, even small spaces can feel expansive and functional. This could mean adding built-ins, relocating a closet, or opening up a wall. Keep reading for more ideas.

Focus on High-Impact Rooms

Kitchens and bathrooms are often the hardest-working areas in a home. Reorganizing cabinetry or improving layouts in these spaces can have a significant impact.

Whether you're dealing with a small home or an inefficient layout, creating a home that feels open, functional, and welcoming is essential.

Contrary to popular belief, achieving this doesn't always require adding more square footage. The right design strategies can make all the difference in how your home feels and functions.

At Studio Z, we believe every home has untapped potential.

In this blog, we'll explore our favorite tips for maximizing space, from simple principles to creative design solutions and budget-friendly upgrades. Whether you're building new or remodeling, there's something here for every homeowner.

Mindset Shifts to Maximize Space

Maximizing space in your home isn’t just about design—it starts with how you approach and think about your living space.

Sometimes, simple changes like rearranging furniture or rethinking how you use a room can make a big difference.

From Mindset to Action: Designing for Maximum Space

Maximizing space starts with rethinking how you approach your home.

Once you’ve embraced the mindset of decluttering, reimagining a layout, and making your home work harder for you, it’s time to put those ideas into action.

Good design can make any home feel larger, more functional, and more beautiful. Whether you’re making big changes or small tweaks, these are four of our favorite solutions to help:

Multi-Purpose and Flexible Spaces

Making your home more spacious often means thinking beyond traditional room labels. By reimagining how you use your spaces, you can create areas that serve multiple purposes without sacrificing comfort or style.

Flex Spaces

Multi-purpose rooms are the ultimate space-savers. A guest room can double as an office, library, or playroom. Murphy beds or convertible furniture make these spaces adaptable to your needs. Check out these innovative furniture designs that adapt to your needs .

Even small spaces, like closets, can become functional workstations or cozy reading nooks.

“The key to a great flex space is adaptability. It’s about creating a room that serves your current needs while staying ready for what comes next.”

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

Dedicated Zones

Create distinct areas for specific tasks using rugs, lighting, or furniture placement. This approach is particularly helpful in multi-functional spaces like open-concept living areas.

Reimagine Room Uses

Do you have underused rooms like formal dining areas or a guest room that’s rarely occupied? Rethink their purpose and give them a dual function that fits your daily needs.

Layout Improvements for Spaciousness

Creating a sense of spaciousness isn’t just about having more square footage—it’s about how your home is arranged. Small adjustments to layouts and furniture placement can make a big impact on how open and functional your space feels.

Open Concept Layouts

Removing unnecessary walls can significantly open up your home, improving sightlines and light flow. The one challenge can be making them feel cohesive. Wondering how to tie together your space with strategic design elements? Learn how to make your open-concept living area harmonious and inviting .

Rethink Furniture Placement

A fresh layout can create better flow without major construction. Group furniture intentionally to create cozy zones, and don’t shy away from floating pieces in the middle of the room. This often works better than pushing everything against the walls.

"Furniture placement can make or break a room. It’s about finding the right balance between function and flow."

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

Simple Reconfigurations

Swap out underused features like oversized tubs for a larger shower or more storage. These updates can improve layout and usability without major renovations.

Smart Storage Ideas

A well-organized home relies on smart storage solutions that blend functionality and style.

Built-In Storage

Custom shelving, hidden cabinets, and multi-functional furniture are beautiful and practical ways to add storage space. Built-ins around fireplaces or beneath stairs can create additional storage while keeping your space tidy.

Affordable Vertical Storage

Make the most of your walls with floating shelves, wall hooks, or over-the-door organizers. These are inexpensive ways to free up floor space while adding style and functionality.

Interior Design Changes

Thoughtful design choices can completely transform how a space feels, even without changing its size.

Use Vertical Space

Draw the eye upward with design choices like vertical subway tiles, striped wallpaper, or tall bookshelves. These elements create the illusion of higher ceilings and a larger room.

Light Colors and Minimalist Furniture

Bright, light tones make spaces feel open and airy. Pair these with furniture that has exposed legs or open bases to avoid visual clutter.

Compact, Multi-Functional Furniture

Pieces like nesting tables, storage ottomans, or foldable chairs offer flexibility and functionality without overwhelming a small space.

Unlock the Secret to Maximizing Space in a Small House

Maximizing space in your home is about making intentional choices that improve both function and aesthetics. By adopting the right mindset—like decluttering and rethinking how you use each room—you’ve already taken the first step toward transforming your home. From creating multi-purpose spaces to reimagining layouts and incorporating smart storage solutions, you now have a variety of actionable strategies to make your home feel larger and more efficient.

Whether you’re tackling small updates or envisioning a bigger redesign, remember that even the smallest changes can have a big impact. The tools and tips shared here are designed to help you unlock the hidden potential of your space without needing to add square footage.

At Studio Z, we specialize in bringing creative and practical design solutions to life. If you’re ready to take the next step and bring your vision to reality, we’d love to help. Contact us today, and let’s create a home for you that’s as beautiful as it is functional.

How to plan a custom home you’ll love: Six key points your architect considers that you might not

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 05:20:16 GMT

"The sun’s position changes throughout the year, so it’s important to plan for both summer and winter. For example, south-facing windows are great for winter warmth, but they might need shading to prevent overheating in the summer."

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

Thoughtful orientation of the new home can help reduce heating and cooling costs, enhance natural light, and make outdoor living spaces more comfortable. Your breakfast nook might be placed to catch morning sunlight, while your patio could be positioned to take advantage of cool breezes in the summer.

For an example of a project where site orientation was carefully considered, take a look at this New Home Build in Ann Arbor , which features a layout that maximizes natural light and integrates beautifully with the surrounding environment.

For homeowners, this step can help keep their home both comfortable and efficient year-round.

2. Prioritizing lighting: Natural and artificial

Lighting is one of the most transformative elements of home design, and it’s something architects think about carefully.

Lighting design ties into the floor plan, as architects will position windows and light fixtures for maximum impact.

They plan for how natural light moves through your home during the day and how artificial light can enhance it at night.

Architects also consider how lighting affects the atmosphere of different spaces.

Skylights can brighten a hallway, while a living room might feel cozier with warm, adjustable lighting. Even your home office can benefit from carefully placed windows, boosting productivity and mood by bringing in natural light.

Designing your dream home is exciting, but there’s a lot more to it than picking the perfect countertops or deciding on the number of bedrooms.

Behind every stunning custom home is a thoughtful plan that ensures it fits your lifestyle today—and evolves with you in the future.

While you’re envisioning your dream kitchen or backyard oasis, your architect is looking at the bigger picture: how can this home be functional, comfortable, and adaptable for years to come?

Here are six critical things your architect is thinking about during the design process—considerations you might not have thought about but will ensure your custom home is everything you want and more.

1. How your home fits the site

When designing your custom home, one of the first things your architect will consider is how your home will set on the land.

This isn’t just about placing the front door where it looks best. Architects think about how sunlight will move across your home (and in your windows!), where natural breezes come from, and even how the seasons will affect your new home’s environment, inside and outside.

3. Designing for comfort: Heating, cooling, and ventilation

A home’s heating, cooling, and ventilation systems are crucial to comfort—but they are not one-size-fits-all. Architects look at your home’s layout, size, and location to help design efficient systems tailored to your needs.

Architects work closely with builders during the home construction process to design and select systems that balance energy efficiency with functionality.

Many existing homes with older mechanical systems struggle to get cool air to the second floor. Adding a second HVAC system or using mini-splits can make a big difference in efficiency and comfort.

Beyond HVAC, architects also think about natural ventilation , strategically placing windows to help take advantage of cross-breezes, reducing reliance on air conditioning.

For an extra touch of luxury, radiant floor heating in bathrooms or basements can provide cozy warmth where you need it most.

4. A home that grows with you: Adaptability and flexibility

Your needs will change over time, and a well-designed home should evolve with you.

Whether you’re planning for a growing family, accommodating teenagers who need their own space, or preparing to age in place, flexibility is key.

“Your kids won’t always be little. When they’re teenagers, they’ll want their own space, and as empty nesters, your needs will change again. Planning with these stages in mind can save you time and money in the long run.”

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

Consider rooms that can serve multiple purposes—a playroom that transitions into a study, or a guest room that doubles as a workout space. Adding wide doorways and a first-floor bathroom now can make aging in place easier down the road.

For more tips on designing a home that adapts to your needs over time, download our guide, Guide for Aging in Place .

A flexible design ensures your home remains functional no matter what life brings.

5. Maximizing indoor-outdoor living

The connection between indoor and outdoor spaces can greatly enhance the livability of your home.

Architects design seamless transitions to patios, gardens, or decks, helping you make the most of your property.

“Think about how you’ll use the space. A large sliding door to a covered patio makes outdoor entertaining easy, while landscaping can create privacy and block harsh winds.”

– Dawn Zuber, founder and principal architect of Studio Z Architecture

Imagine French doors that open your living room to the patio, or a garden that’s visible from the kitchen, adding serenity to your day.

These connections make your home feel larger, more inviting, and deeply integrated with its surroundings.

For more inspiration on blending indoor and outdoor spaces, explore these Ideas for Outdoor Living from Better Homes & Gardens.

6. Choosing durable and sustainable materials for your home build

Every material you choose for your custom home affects not only its style but also, importantly, its durability and maintenance needs.

Architects help you select finishes that balance beauty with practicality while working with your budget.

Durable materials save time and money in the long run, whether it’s composite siding that resists weathering or quartz countertops that are stylish and low-maintenance.

Sustainable options, like locally-sourced wood, also reduce your home’s environmental footprint and can add unique character.

Your custom home, thoughtfully planned

Designing a custom home is about more than aesthetics—it’s about creating a space that’s practical, adaptable, and perfectly suited to your life. Architects bring a wealth of expertise to the process, thinking through elements you might not have considered to make your home functional, efficient, and timeless.

By understanding the importance of factors like orientation, lighting, comfort, and flexibility, you’re better equipped to make decisions that will enhance your daily life and add value to your home for years to come.

When you’re ready to build a custom home that reflects your vision and lifestyle, the team at Studio Z Architecture is here to guide you through every step of the home planning and design process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let’s turn your dream home into a reality.

Prioritizing personal value over resale value in home design

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 21:32:00 GMT

Here's the truth: resale value is unpredictable. The 2024 Cost vs. Value report backs this up: out of 23 common remodeling projects, only 3 return more than 100% of their cost:

Garage Door Replacement (193.9%)
Steel Entry Door (188.1%)
Manufactured Stone Veneer (153.2%)

As you can see, the projects that provide the most value are pretty small! Most of our clients come to us because they want to make more significant improvements to their homes.

Most interior improvements recover far less. For example, minor kitchen remodels offer a 96.1% return, while larger, more expensive renovations like a major kitchen remodel recover just 49.5%

Many homeowners feel pressured to prioritize resale value when planning home improvements, often adjusting designs to attract future buyers.

But what happens when your home no longer reflects you? When you’re constantly thinking about what someone else might want, you can end up with a space that doesn’t bring you true joy.

Most of our clients at Studio Z plan to stay in their homes for 10 years or more after a remodel. The investment—both financial and emotional—is significant, and they want to get their money’s worth.

Over that decade, though, preferences and trends inevitably shift. By the time you sell, those carefully chosen features might not even boost your sale price when it's time to sell.

This blog post explores how focusing on personal value rather than resale can lead to a more fulfilling design process.

We’ll discuss the unpredictability of trends, the emotional benefits of designing for yourself, and practical tips on how to create a home that truly reflects your personality.

Does Resale Value Matter?

It’s easy to see why homeowners fixate on the future home value. From real estate shows to home improvement advice, we’re constantly told to prioritize what future buyers might want.

Neutral palettes, popular features, and safe design choices become the default. But is this really the best approach?

You Can’t Predict the Future: Why Home Trends Are Unreliable

Home design trends are constantly evolving. What’s considered stylish now may look dated in a few years.

Take open floor plans, for instance—once wildly popular, but today more people are opting for defined, cozy spaces with more privacy and acoustic separation.

Think of trends like sunken living rooms, heavy wood paneling, or wallpaper borders. These were once must-haves but quickly became dated. Investing heavily in today’s trends might not pay off when it’s time to sell.

“As architects, we don’t have a crystal ball. It’s impossible to predict which features will still feel fresh in 10 years. Some buyers might love minimalist, modern designs, while others will prefer a traditional, cozy aesthetic. Betting on what future buyers will like can be risky.”

– Dawn Zuber, architect and founder of Studio Z Architecture

The Studio Z Philosophy of Home Design: Designing for You

At Studio Z, we believe your home should reflect your tastes, lifestyle, and needs—not just what might appeal to potential buyers.

Too many homeowners choose “safe” options, thinking they’ll appeal to the widest audience, but the result can be a home that feels bland and impersonal.

Over the years you live in your home, trends will likely change, and what’s in style now may no longer appeal when it’s time to sell.

Living in a home designed to reflect your personal tastes can improve your overall well-being . A space that brings you joy can boost your mood and daily satisfaction, making your home a sanctuary rather than just a future investment.

Common Features That Add Personal Value but Not Resale Value

When designing or remodeling your home, it’s natural to want a space that feels uniquely yours—a place that reflects your lifestyle, passions, and daily routines.

Some features may not significantly boost your home’s resale value, but they can greatly enhance your quality of life. And your quality of life is especially important if you plan to stay in your home for a decade or more, where your day-to-day comfort and enjoyment should take precedence over appealing to a potential future buyer.

Here are a few common features that might not bring the highest return on investment when selling but can add tremendous personal value to your living experience.

Luxurious Upgrades:

Features like steam showers, custom storage solutions, or high-end lighting can significantly enhance your daily experience. However, they don’t always offer high returns when it comes time to sell. That doesn’t mean they’re not worth it!

Niche or Quirky Features:

Have a hobby you love? Creating a dedicated space for it—whether it’s a custom garage workshop, a yoga studio, or an art room—can drastically improve your quality of life, even if it’s not something future buyers will care about.

Big Projects:

A major kitchen remodel typically recovers just 49.5% of the cost. Even the addition of an extra bedroom doesn’t always bring back the full investment, depending on the comps (comparable homes) in your area. However, if your dream kitchen or more living space will completely change your life for the better, we say go for it!

Want more help designing a home that will fit you now and in the future? Read our Guide to Home Design for Aging in Place .

How to Prioritize Personal Enjoyment in Your Home Design

At Studio Z, we help clients identify their needs, wants, and dreams to ensure their home design aligns with their lifestyle and brings them daily satisfaction.

We dive into what will truly make you happy in your space, creating a home you’ll love living in.

Practical Tips to Creating a Home That You Love:

Make a List: Think about what features will improve your home life. Is it a built-in reading nook? A larger kitchen island? A home office designed just for you?

Invest in Joy: Don’t be afraid to include features that bring you happiness, even if they won’t appeal to future buyers. After all, it’s your home.

Don’t Spend on What You Don’t Use: We often talk to clients about features like bathtubs. Many wonder whether they need a tub in the primary bathroom or another bathroom. If you won’t use it, don’t install one just to cater to an imaginary future buyer. Focus on what you need.

Designing for Yourself Beats Chasing a "Good" Resale Value

When remodeling your home, focusing solely on resale value often means designing for someone else, not for yourself.

Most projects won’t recoup their full cost, and trying to predict future design trends or buyer preferences is risky. Trends change, and what’s popular today might be outdated by the time you sell—so, why bother to predict the unpredictable?

Instead, prioritize what brings you happiness and makes your daily life better.

Whether it’s a custom workshop, a steam shower, or simply a space that reflects your personality, designing for your own needs will make your home more enjoyable in the long run.

Ready to create a home that’s uniquely yours? Contact us today to start designing a space that fits your lifestyle!

How to find an architect: Understanding their 'why'

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 19:36:00 GMT

When selecting the right architect, understanding what drives them is essential.

Why did they choose to be an architect? What inspires their designs?

Some are driven by awards and accolades and others by a happy client.

None of these motivations are inherently bad—some homeowners absolutely want an architect who will design a boundary-pushing home that will be featured in magazines.

The trouble comes from not exploring the architect's motivation before hiring them.

This insight can help you ensure that your architect aligns with your needs, leading to better collaboration and satisfaction.

Dawn Zuber, the founder of Studio Z Architecture, embodies a clear and passionate motivation for her work, making her an excellent case study for understanding the importance of an architect’s why.

Finding the right architect for your home can be a daunting task.

With so many architects available, it can be challenging to know where to start and whether you'll choose an architect who will truly understand and bring your vision to life.

The process often involves significant time, investment, and emotional energy.

In this blog post, we’ll show you how to simplify your search for an architect by focusing on one crucial aspect that can help you make an informed decision: understanding an architect’s why.

By delving into the driving focus behind Studio Z Architecture and its founder, Dawn Zuber , we illustrate why knowing an architect’s motivation is key to finding the right match for your project.

Why the Architect's Motivation Matters

When You Find an Architect Ask Them These Two Questions

Here are two questions to ask when interviewing potential architects for your new home or renovation to find out their why:

Why Did You Become an Architect?

One great way to ask an architect to find their motivation is by asking about their early days.

What inspired them to study architecture in college and become licensed? What was a driving factor in starting their firm?

An insightful architect will also be able to share how these motivations continue to influence their current work.

Dawn Zuber’s journey as an architect began in her childhood. Frequent house-hunting trips with her grandmother sparked a fascination with home design.

Collecting floor plans and creating her own designs as a child laid the foundation for her future career as an architect. Dawn recalls, "I started picking up the floor plans that developers provided, and I began to really get interested in designing homes when I did that.

This early passion was not just a fleeting interest but a clear indicator of her future as an architect.

While many of her peers aspired to design large commercial projects, Dawn was drawn to residential architecture.

She valued the personal connections and the deep understanding of clients' lifestyles and dreams that this field offered.

“I knew that I really wanted to do residential architecture,” Dawn explains, “Helping people to fit their needs, wants, and dreams into a home that suits them is really a lot of fun.”

What Do You Hope Will Be Your Legacy?

Another telling way to work out an architect's motivation is to ask them about what they hope to leave behind.

Do they hope to have homes in magazines or a page in textbooks? Do they want to be remembered by the families living in the homes they designed?

While Dawn doesn’t typically focus on legacy, the lasting impact of her work on clients’ lives speaks for itself.

“I do it because I want to make a difference,” Dawn reflects. “It’s not about the accolades; it’s about the lasting relationships and the positive impact on people’s lives.”

Studio Z: An Architectural Case Study

Dawn's childhood experiences taught her the importance of understanding what people want in their homes, a lesson that continues to guide her today.

“My early interest in floor plans and home design was all about understanding what makes a house a home for different people,” Dawn reflects. “That’s still what drives me every day in my work.”

Now Studio Z defines their main motivations in three phrases: client satisfaction, collaboration, and personal relationships.

1. Client Satisfaction

Dawn Zuber’s motivation as an architect centers on creating personalized spaces that reflect clients' unique needs and tastes. This client-focused design process is evident in projects like a recent post-fire rebuild, where the clients' visions were brought to life.

The original house was partially destroyed by fire, and the homeowners saw this as an opportunity to redesign the space to better fit their empty-nest lifestyle.

Dawn worked closely with them to create a design that opened up the second floor to the first, creating a more spacious and modern feel.

“It wasn’t exactly what I would have done for myself, but it was exactly what they wanted, and they were thrilled with the result,” Dawn recalls.

Dawn’s approach ensures that every project is tailored to the individual client, making their home truly unique and reflective of their personality.

"It’s not about winning awards or designing what I want," says Dawn. "It's about making clients happy and giving them a home that expresses who they are."

2. Collaboration

Some architects will tell you what you should build. Studio Z doesn't find that style of working satisfying. At Studio Z, the design process is highly collaborative between homeowner and architect.

Dawn facilitates informed decision-making by providing clients with pros and cons for various design options. This approach ensures that clients feel comfortable and involved throughout the project.

“We are facilitators,” Dawn notes. “We help people make informed decisions. We discuss the pros and cons of your decisions and talk about possible outcomes.”

This method fosters a sense of ownership and satisfaction among clients, knowing their input is valued and integral to the final design.

3. Personal

Many of Dawn’s clients become lasting friends, a testament to her genuine interest in their happiness.

This personal connection enhances the overall project experience, making clients feel valued and understood.

Dawn cherishes these relationships, stating, “I really enjoy getting to know people, how they’re living, how they want to live, and helping them bring that vision to life.”

At the end of the day, Studio Z's work is all about the people and relationships.

The result is not just a beautiful home, but a positive and memorable experience for both the local architect and the client.

Find Your Perfect Match: The Power of Knowing an Architect's 'Why'

Understanding an architect’s why is crucial in finding the right fit for your home design or remodel project.

Dawn Zuber’s journey and philosophy as an architect exemplifies how a deep-rooted passion and client-centric approach can lead to outstanding architectural outcomes.

Hire an architect who understands and aligns with your vision and you'll ensure a more satisfying and successful project.

The right architect can help make your dream home a reality.

Ready to start your next home project? Partner with an architect who truly gets you.

Contact Studio Z Architecture today to discover how Dawn Zuber and her team can bring your vision to life. Your dream home awaits—reach out to Studio Z Architecture and take the first step toward a home that reflects your unique personality and lifestyle.

Design-build firm or independent architect and contractor?

Fri, 10 May 2024 21:38:00 GMT

Picking out bathroom tile and deciding on your home's overall style are fun parts of designing and building a new home. But before you get to that, there's something even more crucial to consider: Who will you choose to design and build your dream home, and just as importantly, how will they work with you?

This choice can make or break your home building or remodeling journey.

Are you leaning towards an architecture firm paired with an independent contractor? Or perhaps you're curious about a design-build firm that handles both design and construction under one roof.

In this article, we compare the benefits of working with an independent architecture firm and general contractor versus working with a design-build firm.

We've got the insights to help you make an informed decision for your unique project. Keep reading to discover the best path to creating your dream home!

What is the difference between a design-build firm and an independent architect and general contractor?

Ever wondered what sets a design-build firm apart from the classic duo of an independent architect and general contractor? It all boils down to the way they approach and manage the processes of design and construction.

Design-build Firm

When you choose a design-build firm, you’re working with one company to handle your home project, from planning to finished construction. This may appear to be the one-and-done solution, with the promise of a single contract, one point of contact, and a potentially streamlined path to completing your project.

People often ask if it is better to have an architect from the same company as the contractor. The short answer is that it depends on your project and the way the firm works. Asking the following questions can help you get a better understanding of how a design-build firm might handle your project.

Is it really one team? With a design-build firm, your entire project will be handled by the team within that firm. Or so they tell you. It is not unusual for a firm to call itself “Design-Build” and then outsource the architectural design to an architect. In fact, Studio Z has actually been hired by design-build firms to design projects for their clients.

Who is in charge of the project? Your contact could be a designer, project manager, or another team member who coordinates your project within the firm. If the firm is architect-led, your main contact may be an architect on the team. Depending on the firm’s approach, the contact you work with directly may change at different stages.

Is there a licensed architect on the team? If you choose to work with a design-build firm, be sure to ask if they have a licensed architect on their team. Design-build firms that offer in-house design services are unlikely to have a licensed architect preparing designs and construction documents.

To become a licensed architect, a person must pass a difficult exam showing their understanding of building codes, structural concerns, mechanical systems, problem-solving, and building systems.

Also, architects practice under a code of ethics and must complete continuing education to maintain their licenses. On the other hand, anyone who can use CAD software can call themselves a building designer.

Who controls the drawings? Ask if you can use the drawings for your project if you end your relationship with the design-build firm. The law grants ownership of designs to the architect or designer who created them, meaning design-build firms own the designs they create. So if you decide things are not working out and want to separate from that firm, you can’t take their plans to a different contractor. You usually need to start the design process again with a new designer. Technically, the new designer will have to start from scratch to avoid copyright infringement.

Independent architect and general contractor

When you choose your own architecture firm and general contractor, you can assemble a team of experts that align with your vision. This way, each professional can bring their unique skills and approach to your project.

You create a partnership with an architectural design team that will first listen to your interests, wants, needs, and imagination and then create a design that takes all of that into consideration, working with you to refine the design before finalizing it and creating construction documents.

A separate general contractor will transform those designs into reality during the construction phase.

Rather than simply handing over plans, these two professionals work together at different points as your project moves forward. As the client, you are central to this collaboration, having important discussions and making key decisions with your architect and contractor at crucial project stages.

Here's a pro tip: be sure to have your architect also provide contract administration services during the construction phase. This can add a layer of coherence and expertise that brings out the best in your project and confirms it is being built according to the plans you’ve invested in.

At Studio Z, we're all about this integrated team approach. We will continue to be involved through construction, making regular visits to observe the progress and quality of the work. We’ll determine if work is proceeding in accordance with the construction documents and help solve any problems that arise.

Advantages of working with independent architects and contractors vs a design-build firm

Choosing who you work with is like selecting the perfect ingredients for a gourmet meal—it can make all the difference! Let’s shed light on the benefits of bringing independent professionals on board—the secret ingredient your project needs.

Advantage 1: Independence and expertise

In the world of construction and design, an independent architect brings their unique design expertise to each project they touch.

These talented professionals revel in the freedom that comes from their independence. And that allows them to pour their heart into crafting your home design, tailoring every detail to suit your individual style.

When you choose an independent architect, you should expect a deeply personalized and dedicated approach. Without being restricted by standard operating procedures, they can focus on every detail of your project to make sure it reflects your personal style and lifestyle.

On the flip side, working with a design-build firm, the focus on streamlining can involve pressure to fit within their standard design style and processes, potentially limiting the personalization that would make your space uniquely yours.

Advantage 2: Customization and creative control over the entire project

Embarking on a journey with an independent architect is like opening a door to a world of boundless creativity and personalization. Imagine a space where your dreams are brought to life. No need to squeeze into a cookie-cutter design.

Each home an architect designs is a reflection of the individual personality, needs, and lifestyle of their client. Taking time to learn about you and your needs, wants, and dreams, an architect focuses on weaving your personal narrative into every corner of your home. With an architect, every design aspect is a thoughtful response to your vision and an opportunity to address problems with better design.

This journey with an independent architect is deeply collaborative, far beyond the mediums of plans and renderings. It’s an interactive, engaging process where you're not just an observer but an integral part of the creative flow. Your involvement means you can steer the project in real time, ensuring the finished plan and home are true to your vision and lifestyle.

In the hands of an independent architect, the finer details of your home—from architectural style to the choice of materials and layout—are meticulously crafted to suit your personal taste.

This custom approach leads to a home that is both aesthetically pleasing and an expression of your identity.

If your heart yearns for a space that's uniquely yours, rich in creative expression and special details, working with an independent architect might just be the path that leads you to your dream home.

Advantage 3: Efficiency and cost management

Choosing an independent contractor opens the door to additional benefits as you go from design to the construction phase of your dream project. Selecting a contractor early in your project planning and design kicks off effective collaboration between your architect and contractor right from the start.

Your architect and contractor are a dynamic duo dedicated to you and the success of your home project. They can work hand-in-hand to estimate costs accurately and identify potential hiccups before they become headaches. This foresight and planning is a game-changer, allowing you to map out your budget with greater confidence.

This proactive teamwork strategy can help avoid the surprises or escalating costs that can take the joy out of construction projects. It's the perfect blend of the architect's thoughtful and complete design and the contractor's practical insights. Together, they can work with you to craft a building plan that is efficient and economically smart.

Best of all, you can pursue your home design project with a sense of clarity, confidence, and control.

Advantage 4: Collaboration and communication

When architects and contractors unite to breathe life into your project, it's like witnessing a perfect harmony of expertise and client-focused dedication. In this partnership, efficient and effective communication ensures that every step of the journey is in sync with your plan.

It’s more than a partnership, it’s teamwork, and you're not on the sidelines. You're actively part of the process. Your plan, desires, and concerns are the driving force behind each turn your project takes. This is a collaboration where your voice is heard at every step of the process.

This direct and open line of communication between you and your chosen professionals is the foundation of a truly successful design and construction process. It paves the way for tailored problem-solving and leads to a home crafted to fit your unique needs like a glove.

Advantage 5: Quality assurance and accountability

When you team up with an independent architect, you're choosing a path where beauty meets functionality. Architects are skilled at blending style with solid design, ensuring that the final result reflects your vision, functions beautifully, and is structurally sound.

Meanwhile, independent contractors are the guardians of the construction process and quality. Their focus includes ensuring that every brick and beam aligns with the highest standards, and are quick to resolve any challenges that might arise.

Picture your architect as a sharp-eyed presence during the construction phase. They’re making regular site visits, ensuring that every detail unfolds according to plan. It's a commitment to advocating for your interests and aligning the reality of the build with your unique preferences.

Your architect-contractor duo works in tandem through the completion of your project. Your architect plays a pivotal role in bridging communication. From translating your dream and answering questions to confirming details, and keeping you informed every step of the way. It's a collaboration and attention to detail that ensures your project not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

Advantage 6: Timelines and project management

Choosing independent architects and contractors might just be your golden ticket to a more streamlined project management experience. It's a bit of a surprise, right? At first glance, it may seem that larger, all-in-one design-build firms are the go-to for straightforward project handling. But look deeper, and you’ll see where the magic of independent collaboration comes into play.

Your choice of architect and contractor forms a close-knit partnership and creates a working synergy that makes scheduling and logistics look easy. This careful collaboration is also nimble and responsive, ready to adapt to the twists and turns of your home building or remodeling project.

What does this mean for your project timeline? This doesn’t imply rushing through or skimping on quality. It's about a streamlined journey where every step is in sync: Communication is crystal clear, decisions are well-informed, and actions are perfectly coordinated. This approach embodies an organized, methodical construction process that can lead to a smoother journey to completion.

In the realm of home construction, time is more than ticks on a clock; it's about cost, convenience, and your peace of mind. A well-managed project timeline translates to less disruption in your daily life and often a more effective and efficient outcome.

Real-world benefits

Let’s look at a few examples from our project experiences that illustrate the value of working with an independent architect teamed up with a selected contractor.

Even before construction gets started, we have streamlined many projects by bringing a contractor in early in the process. This allows our clients to get a place on the contractor’s schedule much sooner than would have been possible had they waited until the construction documents were done to begin selecting a contractor.

Once construction starts, we continue to support our clients with contract administration, including site visits and reports. During one routine visit to a project site, we found steel beams supported with a steel column at one end and a bunch of wood studs at the other end. We recognized this problem immediately–wood studs are not as strong as steel posts, and can fail slowly over time. When we pointed out the error, the contractor realized they had misread the construction drawings and fixed the beam support.

On a site visit to a different project, we noticed that the contractor had not installed the portal wall framing our engineer had specified. We brought the error to the contractor’s attention, and they made the necessary change. In fact, the contractor was grateful we saw the mistake because they were getting ready to install windows and siding. Had that been done, the fix would have been much more involved and added more time and expense to the construction cost.

Hiring an architect and contractor? How to choose the right independent professionals for your home project

As you set sail on the exciting journey of working with independent architects and contractors, the compass to guide you is choosing the right crew for your voyage. To help navigate these potentially stormy waters, we at Studio Z have crafted a short list of key questions to ask before bringing an architect or contractor on board.

Let’s dive into the top 5 questions you can use to help guide your conversations as you look to assemble the crew for your home design project:

Vision alignment: Does their compass point in the same direction as yours? It's crucial that they understand and align with your unique vision for the project.
Portfolio perusal: Take a look at their previous projects. Do their past creations resonate with the style and quality you envision for your own journey?
Communication style: In the world of design and construction, communication is the wind in your sails. How does the architect or contractor communicate, and will it make for smooth sailing?
Budget navigation: How do they handle the treasure chest that is your budget? Is there a clear map showing how the treasure is spent, and do they strive to keep the project within your budget?
Client testimonials: Can you hear tales from those who have sailed these seas before? Past client experiences can guide you to what you can expect before you start on your own journey.

As an architecture firm focused on custom residential architecture, at Studio Z we often partner with contractors to coordinate with our clients for the building services for the projects we design. We call it our team approach, and there are many benefits to working with a team including Studio Z Architecture and a custom residential contractor rather than a one-stop design-build firm.

When you work with Studio Z, we will guide you through the architectural design process and assist you with selecting the fixtures, finishes, and materials the contractor will install for you.

We will help you find the right contractor to build your home. We work with the leading contractors in southeast Michigan and can share our insights to select the best fit for you and your home project.

We will stay involved through construction to ensure your contractor builds your home the way we designed it. We will visit the building site on a regular basis and share updates with you on the progress.

Because of the independent relationship between Studio Z and your selected contractor, the architectural design and plan we develop with you is yours. If there is any reason you need to seek the services of a different contractor, you can work with the same design.

Many contractors who advertise that they provide design-build services actually hire a firm like Studio Z Architecture to do the design. If the contractor hires the architect, the contractor controls the process, and the client doesn’t benefit from an independent architect looking out for their interests.

On our Studio Z blog, you'll find insights and inspiration for your home project, along with the top questions to ask a contractor and how to interpret their answers like a seasoned pro. This resource can help you find professionals who not only have the expertise you seek but also share your vision.

Embark on your journey armed with these questions, and you're sure to forge a partnership that guides you through the process from start to finish and brings your distinct vision to life, creating a home that's not just a place but an expression of you.

Should you choose design-build over a team of independent professionals?

By now, you realize that the perfect approach to your home design project hinges on what you envision and desire. If your heart is set on a process that's as personalized as it is creative and cost-effective, then selecting your own team of independent architects and contractors may just be the key.

Understanding your unique needs and preferences is crucial in this adventure.

Regardless of how your project unfolds, crystal clear communication with your team is your compass. If you’ve never taken on a major home remodel or designed and built a new home of your own, the process can feel like uncharted territory, and you are looking for a partner to make this journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Nestled in the heart of southeast Michigan, Studio Z Architecture not only provides exceptional architectural and interior design services, we create a great home design experience—from sketching out the first ideas to opening the door to your finished home.

We collaborate with some of the finest contractors in the area—in Ann Arbor and southeast Michigan—weaving together our architectural expertise and design talent with their construction skills.

Our goal is to design a home you’ll love and create an experience that is stress-free, seamless, and filled with possibilities!

Reach out and start a conversation with our independent team of architects and designers today.

With Studio Z, it all starts with a call .

Navigate high interest rates by remodeling your existing home

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 19:00:00 GMT

In the wake of the pandemic, many homeowners secured unprecedentedly low mortgage interest rates through refinancing or moving and are reluctant to part with these favorable terms, even if it means living in a less-than-ideal home. At the same time, home prices continue to rise as supply can’t keep up with the high demand for quality homes.

For those contemplating selling and buying, the prospect of doubling or tripling interest rates makes moving a much less appealing option. As an alternative, homeowners with the means to remodel are choosing to invest in enhancing their existing homes—a more financially sound decision for many in today’s market.

Is a Home Remodel the Right Decision for You?

Almost a third of homeowners surveyed in August 2023 said they’d already completed a home improvement project during the year—a strong indication that more homeowners than ever are realizing the benefits of holding onto what they have and improving it.

But how can you tell if remodeling is an option for you?

Consider the following:

Can you see yourself staying in your current community? Deciding whether to move to a new home isn’t just about the house, it’s also about the location. It’s vital to consider how happy you are in your current neighborhood and the benefits of staying versus moving.
Is there untapped potential in your current home? By speaking with a professional architect, you can find out if it’s possible to reconfigure your space or add additional rooms to address the changing needs of your family and lifestyle.
Have you explored the impact of outdated features in your home? When you’ve lived in a home for even a few years, it’s easy to adapt to living with the awkward floor plan, bumping elbows in the crowded kitchen, or waiting for your turn in the shared bathroom. This is why it’s important to consider whether a remodel could give your living space the new life and functionality it needs, making it feel brand new without moving.
Do real estate market conditions and interest rates make selling and buying less doable for you? While buying a new house might be exciting at the start, for many buyers, enhancing a current home can be a more financially viable option. Especially when considering the added costs (and stress) of moving.
How do you measure the value of remodeling? While updating the kitchen and carrying out a bathroom remodel can help boost the return on your investment when you go to sell your home, it’s just as important to understand the value of living in a home that is now tailored to fit your personal needs and style.

Tip: If you think you want to sell your home, consider the many benefits of renovating your home before viewing other properties. Assessing the benefits of major home remodeling and new additions can help add clarity to your decision.

When dreaming of your ideal home, it's natural to get lost in the excitement. From drooling over a primary suite with high ceilings to falling in love with a kitchen island or reading nook, it’s easy to skip over the practical side of things and linger in ‘dream home heaven.’

Unfortunately, when reality hits, and it’s time to crunch the numbers, many homeowners are faced with the realization that high mortgage interest rates —and the limited availability of ‘dream properties’ on the market because of those high rates—are making moving to a new home a lot more complicated and expensive.

With many homeowners hesitant to give up their favorable existing mortgage terms, those in the market for a new home are struggling to align their ideal home aspirations with long-term financial security.

Before deciding that your dream home is out of reach, there's a strategic and financially savvy alternative that could turn things around.

Home remodeling.

But is home remodeling right for you? What are the benefits of remodeling versus building a new home?

The Studio Z team is here to help you find out.

The True Cost of Living: High Mortgage Rates

Planning for Success: Getting Your Home Renovation (or Remodel) Right

The success of a home remodeling project often hinges on careful planning and thoughtful consideration of not just what you want from your home now but also how well your home will serve you in the future.

This is why collaborating with experts like architects is essential for ensuring your remodel project evolves into a true reflection of your lifestyle and that ‘dream home’ feeling.

“As homeowners choose to remain in their aging homes rather than move, they continue to turn to industry professionals for assistance with necessary repairs and discretionary projects that improve their quality of life.”

— Marine Sargsyan, Houzz staff economist

Here's a breakdown of some essential aspects to consider when planning your remodel with a team of experts:

1. The Role of Your Architect

Engaging an architect is partnering with a pro who can create results that will make you question why you ever even thought about moving.

A great architect ensures that your remodel aligns with your aesthetic preferences and meets functional needs and regulatory requirements. They naturally balance design excellence with the practicalities of construction. Your architect can also help you explore and consider possibilities for your home that you haven’t thought of.

The role of a reputable architect should include:

Comprehensive design expertise
Understanding your wants and lifestyle needs
Guidance on structural changes
Strategic planning for long-term functionality
Expertise in building codes
Budget-conscious design solutions
Attention to sustainability, eco-friendly materials, and energy-efficient processes
Coordination and collaboration with your contractor and other professionals
Staying engaged with you through construction, visiting the home to help ensure the work is following your plan
Being your advocate through the entire process

2. Effective Collaboration

A successful remodel requires seamless collaboration between homeowners and the design team. This partnership extends beyond sharing ideas; it's about establishing open communication channels, conducting regular project updates, and engaging in feedback sessions.

To achieve this level of collaboration with your architect and other contractors, focus on:

Open communication channels
Regular project updates and feedback
Mutual understanding of project goals and expectations
Clear roles and responsibilities
Timely conflict resolution
Flexibility and adaptability

3. Budget Alignment

Even when designing your dream home, part of aligning your budget will involve prioritizing needs over wants and exploring cost-effective materials and designs.

A well-planned budget helps keep your remodeling project financially viable and achieves your desired results.

To help keep your home renovation costs in line:

Establish your priorities as early as possible
Review architectural options with cost in mind, especially when making significant structural changes or additions
Meet with several contractors to understand how they work and what they estimate the project will cost
Discuss with your team how design and materials selections can potentially help reduce future maintenance and energy costs.
Work with your team of professionals to understand where it makes sense to “splurge” on more expensive materials, fixtures, and finishings. Often the higher-quality materials can save you money over time.
Establish a realistic contingency fund

4. Extensive research

Before deciding whether you’re going to sell or upgrade your home, explore the wide array of resources available to research the benefits of remodeling, as well as the value of your home (beyond just cost!).

For example, take time to consult with architects and designers who have the knowledge and experience to make your home a happier fit and healthier environment for your future.

Research the following key aspects:

Remodeling benefits: Do some independent research into the advantages remodeling can bring to your home — without pressure from sources that might not be considering the real impact of selling, buying, and moving.
How to insert more “you” into your home: Explore ways to make each space a meaningful, purposeful, and functional part of your home, ensuring it aligns with your lifestyle and aspirations.
Review financing options: Look honestly at what you can afford, know where and when you can get the funding for your remodel, and share those details with your architect from the beginning to get a solution that works with your financial reality.

Tip: When it comes to funding a major home remodel, there are many options available. For example, consider refinancing your home with a home improvement loan or utilizing a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) ; or you may be able to tap into the equity of your investment portfolio.

Partner with Experts: Upgrade Your Home with Studio Z

Investing in Your Future: A Wise Decision?

While many homeowners choose remodeling over moving due to financial limitations, did you know that a well-executed home remodeling project can enhance your property’s resale value? However, we have found that after a thoughtful and personalized remodel, selling is the last thing on the homeowner’s mind.

Here are a few of the financial benefits of remodeling:

Increased property value: Even if you’re not planning on selling your home now, a carefully planned remodel can significantly increase your home’s value for when you do. Enhancements like additional square footage, modern amenities, and improved functionality can lead to a higher appraisal.
Cost-effectiveness: As mentioned, remodeling can often be a more cost-effective option than purchasing a new home. This is especially true when you consider the additional costs associated with buying and selling, like realtor fees, closing costs, and moving expenses.
Investment in rising markets: Quality properties in well-established or up-and-coming areas can be like gold in a competitive market. Especially if your home is in the neighborhood you love, surrounded by desirable amenities, investing in your existing home can be a smart move.

Because there’s no price tag on comfort and peace of mind, it’s important to weigh in the lifestyle benefits of remodeling:

Personalized living spaces: A major home remodel allows you to tailor your living spaces to align perfectly with your lifestyle. From upgraded kitchens to expanded family rooms, your remodeled home can truly pay off in happiness.
Room to grow: Remodeling can add the space and peace your growing family needs. Giving teenagers their own space or adding another bathroom and bedroom suite to have an aging parent move in can help ease growing pains.
Ease of living: In many cases, a major remodel can also involve updating appliances and systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical), as well as improving the home’s insulation and structural integrity. While the benefits of living in a healthier home that’s easier to maintain can be felt every day, the financial benefits of a more energy- and cost-efficient home add up to real savings.
Aging in place: Adding or planning for features that enhance your ability to live in your home for a longer time is a wise investment. For example, when remodeling a bathroom, add blocking—extra 2 x 4s—in your walls so you can easily (and safely!) mount grab bars in the future.

While carrying out a major remodel in one go is a more practical option for most, it’s possible to tackle home improvements incrementally. A phased approach means addressing one area at a time based on your priorities and budget. While this allows for saving up the funds for each project, a phased approach will take longer and be more costly overall—and can lead to remodeling fatigue.

Whether driven by financial considerations, emotional attachment, or the desire for practical improvements, home renovation projects are a great way to create your own custom home when new mortgage interest rates might otherwise make moving impossible.

Allow Studio Z to handle your entire remodel project, from concept to completion. Offering both architectural and interior design services in southeast Michigan, our award-winning team is on hand to ensure you can achieve your perfect home with as little stress as possible.

Get in touch today to discover the benefits of a home remodeling project tailored to you.

Mid-Century home design & remodeling

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 21:48:00 GMT

It's no accident that Michigan (especially Southeast Michigan) has a great architectural heritage of MCM homes!

The post-World War II boom led to a demand for functional and affordable housing, with architects turning to modern design principles to create homes that would appeal to a broad market.

Southeast Michigan, especially the Detroit area, experienced a boom of mid-century modern homes during the 1950s and 1960s. Architects and builders were drawn to the style's understated yet sophisticated design.

The University of Michigan's School of Architecture, founded in 1931, had a focus on modernist design, which contributed to the popularity of mid-century modern homes in the Ann Arbor and Plymouth areas.

Frank Lloyd Wright and Eliel Saarinen are among the era’s leading architects designing homes, schools, and commercial and public buildings in Michigan. Cranbrook in Bloomfield Hills is home to a number of architecturally-significant buildings including Wright’s Smith House; Saarinen House, designed by Eliel Saarinen, and Cranbrook House, designed by Albert Kahn.

Many mid-century homes in these areas have been beautifully preserved and updated, serving as a testament to the enduring appeal of the classic design we all know and love!

Take a trip down mid-century modern memory lane

At Studio Z, we're big fans of mid-century modern and our work reflects this. Let’s start with some of our favorite MCM home projects we’ve designed. We also share some of the iconic MCM homes designed by architects we admire, along with a list of Southeast Michigan neighborhoods to help you plan your own inspiration drive.

(Keep reading for our list of 7 key elements to consider when designing your own Michigan-modern home.)

Discover iconic mid-century modern homes in Michigan

Are you in love with mid-century modern architecture? We are too!

At Studio Z, we are passionate about honoring the architectural heritage of the mid-century era, which has firm roots right here in Michigan.

As architects and interior designers in Michigan, we draw inspiration from the timeless elements of mid-century modern homes, such as vaulted ceilings, large windows, open plans, and brick walls.

If you're looking for ideas for your mid-century modern home remodel or want to buy one of the beautiful homes located here in Michigan, you've landed on just the right blog post!

Join us as we take a virtual tour of iconic mid-century modern homes and explore the key features that we love about them.

First, what exactly is mid-century modern design?

Mid-century modern (MCM) design was popular between 1945 - 1969 and can be seen in many of the products, homes, furniture, graphics, and more produced during that time. Mid-century modern home design is known for its clean lines, open floor plans, and a focus on functionality.

The design aesthetic is typically modern and minimalist. Some of the most recognizable features include:

Simple shapes
Ample windows to blend indoor and outdoor spaces
Natural materials, like wood and stone.

The history of mid-century modern homes in Michigan

Looking for more inspiration? Plan your own mid-century modern inspiration tour of Southeast Michigan

We’ve selected four more homes that highlight the history, style, and quality of mid-century modern design in Southeast Michigan. And while we haven’t worked on these homes, just like you, we find inspiration in their MCM architectural details and interiors.

The Balogh House

In Plymouth, you'll find a gorgeous mid-century modern gem: The Balogh House . This home is a true masterpiece, built in 1958 by renowned architect Tivadar Balogh.

The house is located on a wooded lot and features an open floor plan, floor-to-ceiling windows, and plenty of natural light. Nestled in the trees, the design is a perfect example of the use of simple yet strong, geometric shapes in balance with nature.

The Robert Metcalf House

Between 1953 and 2008, Architect Robert Metcalf designed more than 150 properties in Michigan and Ohio, including his own home in Ann Arbor. Metcalf and his wife, Betty, designed and built their home in 1954 and lived there until 2008.

With its characteristic flat roof line outside and an unmistakable balance of form and function inside, the home is an icon of mid-century design.

Floor-to-ceiling windows, exterior doors, and skylights bring light and nature into every room in the home, connecting the interior to the landscape.

The Miller House

One of the most stunning mid-century modern homes in Ann Arbor is the Miller House . Originally built in 1951, the home underwent a major renovation and addition designed by Robert Metcalf in 1965.

The two-story house sits atop a hill, surrounded by nature, and features a unique design with a flat roof and plenty of glass. The home's interiors are just as stunning as the exterior, with an open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, and a large stone fireplace.

The Barton Pond Home

This home in Barton Hills is another fabulous example of MCM residential architecture in Michigan. Designed by Colvin, Robinson, and Associates in the 1950s and virtually untouched since then, the home features many of the era's signature elements.

The interior is flooded with natural light from plentiful windows, while the generous use of wood paneling and stone creates an inviting and cozy atmosphere.

In addition to the mid-century homes detailed here, you can explore more by checking out A2Modern's interactive map of homes in Ann Arbor. Some of the homes listed even have tours available from time to time!

There are many southeastern Michigan and suburban Detroit communities filled with beautiful examples of MCM homes:

Ann Arbor, especially the Ann Arbor Hills and Geddes Heights neighborhoods. and nearby Barton Hills
Plymouth township and Livonia
Farmington Hills, Beverly Hills, and Bloomfield Hills, including a visit to Cranbrook

1. Keep it simple

First, focus on clean lines and simple yet elegant designs. Mid-century modern is known for its clean, uncluttered look, so keep this in mind when choosing furnishings and decor.

2. Modernize

Don't be afraid to incorporate modern touches into your design. Homes of the MCM era were designed to be functional and practical, so there's room for modern updates, like new stainless steel appliances, that respect the design.

3. Connect to the outside

Embrace the outdoors! Mid-century modern architecture brings the outdoors in. Take advantage of this by incorporating large windows and creating outdoor living spaces that connect to the interior living spaces. Think of these spaces as outdoor rooms.

4. Think natural

Stay true to the focus on organic architecture and design elements, such as wood, stone, and metal finishes. For example, this could mean pairing a contemporary table with cushioned chrome chairs for your dining room.

5. Incorporate daylight

MCM designs typically include walls of glass, sliding patio doors, and skylights. Bring in that natural light!

6. Expect surprises

Before embarking on a mid-century modern renovation project, you must plan a contingency budget. With older homes, surprises can arise during the design and construction process that require additional time and funding to fix.

7. Work with design professionals

Finally, it's important to work with a skilled architect and interior designer who understand the nuances of mid-century architecture and design to help bring your vision to life while staying true to the heritage of the original features.

Where to start? Talk to our architects and interior designers

What to consider when designing your own Michigan-modern home

If you're looking to renovate your mid-century home in Michigan or create a new one inspired by MCM design, there are a few key elements to remember to honor your home's architectural heritage.

The Tailored Ranch Remodel

Originally built in the 1950s, our Tailored Ranch project already had a great main floor layout. But the home needed some updating to bring it up to today's standards and fit the new homeowners' lifestyle and design sensibilities.

Studio Z redesigned the main living area to create a better flow from room-to-room, throughout the home, designed a more modern fireplace, and added a guest bathroom, among other upgrades. The result is a beautiful mid-century home that feels fresh and modern while honoring the original design.

A Modern Chef's Kitchen and More

Another example of MCM home design in Michigan is our work on the Modern Chef's Kitchen project , located in Ann Arbor. This beautiful home, which was originally designed by Robert Metcalf, had a typical 1960s cramped galley-style kitchen that didn't suit one of the homeowners who loved to cook.

Studio Z added an 8’ wide addition to the south side of the house to expand the kitchen and eating nook. By trading the placement of the two spaces, the eating nook could take advantage of the views of the gorgeous backyard, and the kitchen would be closer to the garage (so much easier for unloading groceries!).

Our redesign included enclosing the covered breezeway that connected the home and garage. This change provides space for a much-needed mud room and walk-in pantry/kitchen prep area.

Studio Z carefully designed the addition to fit seamlessly with the existing house on the interior and exterior, matching trim details, overhangs, and siding.

The Mid-Century Modern Suite

The Studio Z team also enjoyed working on our Peaceful Primary Suite project for a 1960’s ranch-style home in Ann Arbor. The homeowners wanted to update the primary suite, which had a raised spa tub and a black toilet from a 1990s remodeling project.

We designed a spacious main bathroom with a double vanity and beautiful Douglas fir features to tie the natural elements in and reconfigured the existing walk-in closets to improve functionality.

Hallmarks of mid-century modern architectural design, our use of light and natural wood accents updated both the bath and bedroom with a nod to 1960’s style.

The Wright-Inspired Ranch

The Studio Z team was delighted to take on remodeling this 1970s ranch home . Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s work, the father-and-son team who originally designed and built the home also brought their own impressive finish carpentry skills to the project, including custom built-ins and trim details throughout.

The public parts of the home were filled with meticulously-detailed features. Our team took on every detail to both elevate the mid-century design and modernize the home — including replacing a large, original dining room light fixture with LED light boxes featuring Frank Lloyd Wright window patterns.

Raising the roof gave Studio Z space to design a vaulted ceiling in the primary bedroom with oak trim that further accentuates the Wright influence on the original home.

At Studio Z, we believe that every home should reflect its owner's unique style and personality. When it comes to mid-century era homes, this means blending the best of the home’s architectural heritage with the innovations of modern design.

Whether you're looking to renovate your mid-century modern home or build a new home inspired by MCM style, we hope this blog post has given you insight and sparked your imagination.

Talk to the Studio Z team today about designing your own beautiful, timeless, and functional home.

Creating your home to fit your future

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 17:28:00 GMT

At Studio Z Architecture, we recognize that homes don’t magically keep up with the pace of life and changing needs. That's why we've crafted our aging-in-place guide packed with insights, wisdom, and practical tips we’ve garnered from over 25 years of experience in designing homes and spaces that harmonize with life's changes.

Our guide isn't just a roadmap; it's filled with ideas and inspiration to help you shape your forever home.

Designing for You and Your Tomorrows

Aging in place doesn't mean sacrificing aesthetics for functionality. At Studio Z, we believe in marrying ease and accessibility with the design aesthetic that reflects your personality. Safety and beauty can, and should, coexist harmoniously. Your home is a canvas, and we're here to blend practicality with the elegance that's quintessentially you.

Uncover a wealth of knowledge within our guide:

Understanding Aging in Place: Explore our holistic approach to design for aging in place, from mobility considerations to creating spaces that foster independence.

DIY Upgrades: Find ideas for simple, do-it-yourself enhancements that can make your home more accommodating today and for years to come.

The Role of Technology: Learn how embracing technology can elevate your daily life, from smart lighting solutions to intuitive home automation and safety features.

Room-by-Room Insights & Ideas: Delve into our room-specific suggestions and reimagine your living spaces through the lens of comfort, convenience, and security.

Your Personal Checklist: Use our comprehensive checklist to identify areas in your home that could benefit from enhancement. Prioritize your projects and know when it’s best to call in the building and design professionals.

Your Home, Your Story, Our Design Expertise

Just like a finely-tailored suit or a handcrafted piece of art, your home should encapsulate your unique narrative. At Studio Z Architecture, we are your collaborators, your confidantes, and your creative partners. With our guidance and expertise, we can help you transform your home into a sanctuary that nurtures you today and embraces your tomorrows.

Change is the only constant in life, and our homes should be flexible enough to embrace it. Create a home that is fit for your future and evolves with you, always ready to welcome the chapters that await.

It starts here!

Are you eager to create a space that's not just a dwelling but a reflection of your personality and your aspirations?

Download our guide today and take the first step towards designing a home that is fit for your and your future, a home that embodies who you are and who you'll become.

Your forever home is waiting. Let's embark on this exciting journey together!

Our Guide to Home Design for Aging in Place

As life gracefully marches on, our homes—those once vibrant hubs of busy family life—have seen their share of changes. From curious toddlers and growing teenagers to giggling grandkids, from full-time careers to working from home and planning for retirement, your beloved home has been there for you through it all.

While your life and priorities have changed over the years, there have been reasons to delay significant home changes or even contemplating the idea of a new home design or remodel.

But guess what?

Now is your time.

Focus on you, your well-being, and your future. It's time to make your home a haven that accommodates you and your future.

And that is why we created our Architect’s Guide to Aging in Place: Designing a Home for YOUR Future!

The table above shows a relatively small percentage (6.1%) of all people 65+ will use a wheelchair. Many more of us will use walkers (11.5%) or canes (16.4%).

CI = Confidence Interval

More about National Health and Aging Trends Study

About Aging & Mobility

The term “aging in place” may bring to mind things like wheelchair ramps and handrails. Mobility issues that come with aging seem to be at the top of most people’s minds when they think about how to make their home work for them in the future.

In fact, the mobility issues that can come with age are less likely to require the use of a wheelchair than other mobility aids, such as canes or walkers.

The 2011 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), looked at the prevalence of mobility devices by adults 65 and older. See the charts below for details.

These numbers are helpful to consider as you plan for your home design needs. When someone says they want an “accessible” home, they may think age = wheelchair. But, an accessible home for you is the one that is designed for your actual mobility needs and lifestyle.

Ready to get started with our in-home consultation?

At Studio Z Architecture, we love designing homes that delight! We will work with you to transform your home into the one you really want, or start fresh with a new home designed just for you!.

We believe you deserve a home that beautifully reflects your personality, lifestyle, and needs while functioning effortlessly to make everyday — and your future — better.

Get in touch with Studio Z to explore your aging-in-place home today!

The graph above shows a majority of people, even at 85+, do not use any kind of mobility device

What to expect from your in-home architecture consultation

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 15:21:00 GMT

How to get the most from your in-home consultation

In a word: Prepare!

Keep notes. What do you love about your home? What problems are you looking to solve with a new home or major remodeling?

Have your questions ready. Make a list of any questions you have about the home design and construction process.

Gather documents if you have them.

Survey of your current property (for an addition or remodel), or of your new parcel of land (for a new home build).
Existing floor plans, if you plan to remodel.
List of recent major upgrades or updates (such as new HVAC, roofing, windows, etc.).
List of major upgrades or updates needed.
HOA documents

If you live in, or plan to build a new home in a subdivision, make a copy of the Homeowner Association’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions. This will describe any limitations on the materials that can be used on the exterior of your home, as well as detail the approval process for any plans to renovate the outside of your home.

Make your home wish list. Assemble your list of needs, wants, and dreams, and prioritize them. If your consultation is already booked and you’ve got your wish list done, you can even email it to us before we meet.

Gather inspiration. We know you probably have some specific details or a general concept of what you hope it will all look like in the end. Getting all those ideas organized will help you – and us – clarify and prioritize to translate your ideas into a working design concept.

Here are some useful tools to help you get organized and make it easy to share and update us on your inspiration:

Create Ideabooks for each proposed room using Houzz . If you prefer Pinterest, set up a board for each room of the house, the exterior, and outdoor spaces.
You can also do this the old-fashioned way, by tearing photos from magazines or marking your favorite photos in a book.

Not sure how to set up & use Houzz?

Follow along with Dawn Zuber in our step-by-step quick start video!

Create ideabooks for each room of your home using Houzz!

Maybe you’ve outgrown your home, or the kids have grown and it’s all yours now. Maybe you found a great piece of property to build brand new. Remodel or new build, each of these major home design projects comes with its own opportunities and challenges.

When you first contact Studio Z Architecture , we will discuss your project on the phone or via email to learn more about your project goals, timeframe, and how much you plan to invest in the project.

On that call, we will also ask a few questions to help determine if we are the right fit for you.

Whether you’re planning to build new from the ground up or completely remodel your existing home, this is the best way to begin the process.

The next step is our In-home Architecture Consultation .

Think of this as a house call (literally!). We will visit your home to get an understanding of what works and doesn’t currently work for your lifestyle, your goals, and the possibilities and limitations to consider as you take on a major remodeling or new home build.

While we will ask a lot of questions, of course, we will also answer your questions about the architectural design and construction processes.

Obviously, anyone who will be making decisions about the design should be present at this meeting.

We’ve seen it all, from handwritten sticky notes and 3-ring binders filled with magazine clippings to PowerPoint presentations and dozens of packed Ideabooks.

No matter how you assemble your inspiration, be sure to take time to identify what it is that you like about the image and include your notes and comments.

If you find a particularly compelling image but you can’t put your finger on what you like about it, that’s OK–we can look at the images you gather and get a good sense of your taste and what inspires you.

Set aside time and space for our meeting

Depending on the size of your project, a home consultation can take one to two hours (or more). Plan to make this a distraction-free meeting so you can focus.

During our time with you, we will ask you to show us around your home and then sit together and ask questions about what you hope to do by remodeling or building a new home. It will help to have space to sit together—around the dining room or kitchen table or island—to continue the conversation, look over your inspiration and needs list, and answer your questions.

If you have young children, it might make sense to arrange for a babysitter to watch them during this time. If you work from home, you may want to forward calls and turn off alerts and notifications.

Renovating or Building a new home in Plymouth or Ann Arbor?

Being well-prepared before you take any action to start your home project will improve the overall process and give you a much better chance of getting the home result you want and need!

To prepare for your in-home consultation, and help us be prepared to help you, there’s a different starting point for each of these projects:

How much does Studio Z’s in-home consultation cost?

Our fee for the in-home consultation starts at $500, which includes up to two hours for the meeting with your Studio Z designer and travel* to your home. Additional consulting time can be negotiated, if needed.

*Travel to your home within a 30-mile radius of Plymouth, Michigan, is free. For locations outside this area, travel charges will be negotiated in advance.

What’s next?

Although the in-home consultation is a stand-alone service, meaning that you are not obligated to contract with Studio Z for the duration of your project, it often leads to a longer-term relationship.

If appropriate, we will prepare a detailed contract proposal for you including your scope of work (what you would like to have us do), an outline of the phases of our work, an estimate of the time it will take and how much it will cost, and some legal language intended to make sure we both understand our roles and responsibilities to each other.

Remodeling or Building a New Home? Start with Studio Z!

Get started with our in-home consultation

At Studio Z Architecture, we love designing homes that delight! We will work with you to transform your home into the one you really want, or start fresh with a new home designed just for you!.

We believe you deserve a home that beautifully reflects your personality, lifestyle, and needs while functioning effortlessly to make everyday life better.

Get in touch with Studio Z!

For Renovations & Remodels Only

Ann Arbor and Plymouth have well-known and much-loved neighborhoods with classic Craftsmen-era and Mid-Century Modern homes, it’s no wonder we work on many major remodels, renovations, and additions in the area.

When your project involves such a complete transformation of an existing home, there are some important first steps to help you prepare:

If possible, find and make copies of the floor plans of your home as it now exists. If you don’t have plans, you can check with your local building department to see if they have any drawings in their files.
For an older home that hasn’t been remodeled in many years, there probably won’t be any drawings on file. In this case, you can either make a sketch of the plan yourself or we can sketch it quickly when we make our house call, if needed. (Our service for remodeling clients includes measuring and drawing existing plans, but we won’t do that until after we sign a contract.)
If you plan to make changes to the exterior of your home, take photos of the front, sides, and back of the house, and email them to us.

Pro Photo Tip: Be sure to hold the camera perpendicular to the façade so the perspective is natural. Stand as far away as possible and zoom in on the façade to compensate for distortion from the wide-angle lens that’s the default on many digital cameras.

For New Homes Only

It may seem counterintuitive, but even if you plan to build a new home, it’s helpful for us to see your existing house and get a sense of what works and doesn’t work for you there.

During your in-home consultation, it will also help to review details you have about your new building site.

In fact, before we start designing your custom home, we’ll want to walk the site with you to discuss where the house might be situated on your property.

If possible, share photos of your new property to help us understand the potential for your new home. As your project gets started, we will make plans to visit the site with you.
If you do not already have a survey, it’s important to hire a surveyor to measure your property and prepare a site plan.
If you do have a property survey and plan for your new home building site, be sure to have that on hand for our meeting. This will include the property boundaries, existing structures, significant topography (elevation contours), trees, bodies of water, and any easements – key features that tell us more about the limitations and possibilities to consider in designing your new home.

Interior Design trends take a more natural approach

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 15:12:00 GMT

When it comes to flooring, there’s a growing love for natural materials, such as bamboo and reclaimed hardwood flooring. We’re also finding that many renovation projects include restoring hardwood flooring currently hidden beneath carpets to its former glory.

At Studio Z, we absolutely love it when clients come to us after buying an older house. They’re just as excited as we are about what can be repurposed and given a second chance at life.

For the past decade, it seems many homeowners went all-in on clean, almost clinical plain ceramic or vinyl flooring because it’s easy to clean. And while luxury vinyl tile (LVT) isn’t likely to go out of use anytime soon, we are happy to see a variety of warmer and more aesthetically-pleasing flooring options.

In particular, natural wood is making a comeback, with biophilic design undoubtedly having a heavy influence. Biophilic design is an approach to architecture and interior design that aims to connect homeowners more closely to nature. With a biophilic design approach, a home can become a healthier environment, with design features that include better ventilation, lighting, and more natural design elements.

When it comes to more natural flooring materials, both warm and neutral tones can work exceptionally well. In smaller spaces that would feel closed in with darker floors, we have a particular appreciation for light, neutral and modern tones (those Scandinavian design elements aren’t going away!).

When faced with a 1990s-era bathroom in need of serious updating, our team at Studio Z decided to balance natural materials with a modern aesthetic. We added a slip-resistant pebble shower floor to make a statement in keeping with the natural sensibility. Overall, the design was a huge success, with the right level of design and functionality to tie in with the rest of the home.

When formulating a design such as this one, it’s important to remember that as designers, we need to envisage what the client wants. At the same time, we need to use our expertise to implement what we know works and what will prove to last over the years, both in design and performance. In this case, even if our client decides to change other elements of their bathroom design in the future, we’re confident that the natural shower floor will stay.

2. Tile Trends: Artisan styles make bold statements & bring nature indoors

Style, comfort, and materials

While minimalism and sleek design trends are unlikely to fade completely, current trends suggest a more natural approach to design features. Across flooring, tiles, and built-in design, we find ourselves and our clients attracted to more natural wood and sustainably-sourced materials.

At Studio Z, we believe that this trend towards natural materials is here to stay. With everyone spending more time at home over the past two years—often working from home, a continuing shift towards a more environmentally-conscious mindset, and the rising costs of building materials, we’re seeing a more natural approach to interior design.

But what does this shift to natural materials mean for existing modern aesthetics? Are we headed back to the days of the orange oak and pine paneling cabin-in-the-woods look, or is the new ‘natural approach’ adopting a more contemporary and quality-focused vibe?

1. Flooring Trends: Nature underfoot creates connected, healthier interiors

Tile is always an interesting subject for interior designers, architects, and homeowners alike. The possibilities are endless, and yet choosing the perfect tile for a home can feel like one of the most challenging tasks when it comes to designing a home.

Few design experts will ever start their design journey with a specific tile. Instead, the right tile usually shows up after extensive research. With sustainable sourcing now a core theme of residential interior design, seeking out local and bespoke suppliers is a good first step.

Our Ann Arbor Craftsman Home Renovation project started with an awkward 1980s F-shaped kitchen that needed complete reworking. Once we had reconfigured the shape and style of the kitchen, we used locally-sourced artisan tiles with an emphasis on natural tones to create a better sense of cohesion between the kitchen and the garden space it overlooks.

When a room has direct access to an outdoor space, it’s critical to incorporate—even design around—this connection between interior and nature. With the trend towards a more natural way of viewing interior design and home build projects, architects and contractors are looking for solutions to more seamlessly relate outdoor areas to the interiors.

While natural tones and materials are a great way to bring the outdoors in, they’re also an excellent tool for creating a sense of outdoor space where none exists. With more people working from home, adding a sense of fresh air to a home’s indoor spaces isn’t only what people want — it’s what they need.

3. Trends in Cabinetry & Woodwork: Built-in storage designed for ease

As previously mentioned, with a lot more people now working from home, built-in design is in the spotlight! Homeowners want to use the space they have and tie in design elements that help separate their ‘work’ and ‘home’ lives.

Because of this, built-in storage is proving popular across all age groups of homeowners. It is especially helpful for keeping distracting clutter out of sight and promoting a calmer feeling in any space.

One recent trend we like is creating built-in storage and fold-away desks to add work-from-home spaces that don’t feel like office cubicles. Instead of the sleek surfaces of popular flat-pack furniture, we see a use of mixed wood tones, even contrasting neutral and warmer woods in the same room.

We designed beautiful Douglas fir windows for the primary suite of the Ann Arbor project we recently completed and balanced this feature with cooler-toned flooring. The cabinets in the bathroom maximize storage space and complement the wall and floor tile. The theme for this space was peace and serenity, and natural materials help carry that theme throughout the home.

“Natural" is THE Timeless Interior Design Trend

The thing with good design and quality materials is that they never go out of fashion. Even if a homeowner chooses to change some interior design elements in the future, we predict they’ll retain the natural elements we are adding to their homes. This is because while the popularity of some design features fades, natural elements will always make perfect design sense.

What home design trends fit your life?

At Studio Z Architecture, we can help you transform your home into the one you really want (and totally deserve)—a home that beautifully reflects your personality, lifestyle, and needs while functioning effortlessly to make everyday life that bit better.

Get in touch today to get started.

This is an expanded version of our AIA-MIDesign Perspectives guest article featured in CAM Magazine , the publication of the Construction Association of Michigan.

Remodelers' tour features Ann Arbor home redesigned by Studio Z

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 20:51:00 GMT

2022 Fall Home Tour Highlights Major Remodels & Expansions

Presented by the Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Ann Arbor (BRAG), the annual Fall Remodelers Home Tour features a selection of eight recently remodeled homes in the area. And one of those on the tour is STUDIO Z’s project on Provincial Drive in Ann Arbor Hills!

The Fall Remodelers Home Tour is October 22 & 23, 2022, 11am to 5pm. Tickets are $10 and can be ordered online in advance. Tickets are valid both days for entry to all 8 homes on the tour.

CLICK TO GET YOUR TICKETS & HOME TOUR MAP

The STUDIO Z team will be there throughout the weekend to welcome you!

Step inside — in person — to see how our architects and designers transformed this family home …

From boxy, tiny rooms that cramped our client’s family lifestyle, to a bright and spacious home for easier, happier living, cooking, entertaining, relaxing, and we even added storage!

Read more about this Ann Arbor home remodel and see all the before and after pictures here .

Thinking of Remodeling Your Ann Arbor Home?

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you're building a small addition, constructing a new home from scratch, or undertaking a whole-home remodeling project, starting with an architect can give you insight into all the details and decisions that go into a successful design and construction project.

We work closely with your contractor to guide the process for the best results possible and advocate for your needs.

Learn more about what to expect and prepare for when you hire an architect .

Or contact us to chat with our architects about the value we can offer to your project and how we can even help save your sanity along the way.

Get in touch today to get started.

Credits:

Interior Design: Studio Z Architecture

Contractor: Momentum Construction

Photographer: Laura McCaffery Photography

Interior Decorator: Sarah Finanne Design

How much does an architect cost?

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 16:29:00 GMT

Is hiring an architect worth the money?

The question "How much does an architect cost?" comes with so many varying answers that we'd be silly to give you a specific number — and you likely won't find the answer on any other architecture website. It would be foolish at best and misleading at worst to provide any numbers without understanding what you need and want for your home renovation or new build.

In short, an architect's fee depends largely on the complexity of your project and how efficiently you make decisions.

The real questions you should ask are:

"How much will it cost NOT to hire an architect?" and

“How will the value I get offset or exceed my architect's fee?”

By answering these questions, you can figure out if hiring an architect is worth the expense. In our experience, it almost always is. So why is that?

Keep reading to get a better understanding of your architect's worth.

(Spoiler alert: Hiring an architect will save you massive amounts of time, effort, money, and stress!)

Let’s look at what an architect provides and the value they can deliver for your home remodel, addition, or new construction.

Is it worth getting an architect?

11 reasons why you may need an architect for your home

Even we'll admit that not all home construction projects require an architect.

To help you figure out if you need an architect or if you can handle your next project without an architect, start by considering your situation and the bigger goal of the project you have in mind.

See if your issue falls into any of the following categories. If it does, then yes, we can pretty much guarantee you need to hire an architect, and we'll tell you why.

1. You need to solve a design problem

Feel like everyone in the house is constantly bumping into each other because of a poor layout? Fed up with banging into that same door or sharp countertop corner?

Do you need to add a bathroom downstairs but can't figure out how you can possibly fit one in? Is your home's awkward floor plan finally getting to you?

These are really common problems in homes, and you might not be able to solve them without the expertise and support of an experienced architecture firm.

Hiring an architect will help you solve all manner of problems through design—the big and the small.

It's our job to provide creative solutions! And we can show you our solutions in detailed visualizations at the schematic design phase so you can see exactly how we propose to solve your problem!

2. You want to maximize the space you have

Remodeling your entire home, or even more than one room, at once can be overwhelming to manage. Perhaps you have young children or you travel for business and do not have time to coordinate the many moving parts of your home remodeling. Breaking it down into smaller bits can give you more flexibility and make it easier to oversee.

3. You're worried about making poor decisions

Whether you're building a small addition, constructing a new home from scratch, or undertaking a whole-home remodeling project, making design and construction decisions can be super overwhelming.

If you don't have any construction knowledge, it's not easy to fully trust your contractor's recommendations and hand over your budget. You worry about what details you’ve missed and feel there’s no way to know for sure how things will turn out.

Hiring an architect helps you understand all the details and decisions that go into a successful design and construction project. We work closely with your contractor to guide the process for the best results possible and advocate for your needs.

Throughout the project, we lead you through what can be a complicated, difficult, and stressful process, saving your sanity and time.

Learn more about what to expect and prepare for when you hire an architect in our previous blog post.

4. You're trying to save money

You might wonder, "if I'm trying to build or remodel a home on a tight budget, why would I spend money on an architect?"

Well, believe it or not, hiring an architect can actually save you money in the long run. Three areas an architect can help you most:

Value engineering

We can "value engineer" to help you find alternatives for specific design features so you can splurge on what matters to you and still cover the essential components of your home design. We may also be able to find ways to achieve your goals without adding space or ripping out all your interior walls.

Fewer construction revisions

By creating detailed construction documents and working with your contractor and interior designer from the start, your architect can help you get a more realistic estimate.

At Studio Z, we know that having a clearly-defined and well-communicated plan for your home project means fewer costly revisions, surprises, construction errors, rework, or delays.

Lower construction costs

The highest costs of your home design project lie not in your architectural fees but in the labor, materials, and other construction costs. This is why in our initial consultation we ask questions like:

Do you really need a sitting area in your bedroom?
How, and how often, will you use those spaces?
Is it important to have a tub and a shower in every bathroom?
How much space do you need for entertaining? Do you like having a formal dining room?
Do you need an eat-in kitchen and bar/island seating?
Do you need a dedicated guest room for visitors or extended family?

Digging deep into your needs and priorities helps us make the best use of your space. We may even be able to trim off a few feet because, generally, the lower the square footage, the more you'll save in building time and materials.

We design with efficiencies in mind, not just with the flow and use of your home, but with the cost of each space.

5. You need to design for accessibility or aging-in-place

Whether someone in your home uses a wheelchair or a walker, or you need to design your home for your unique abilities and needs, the accessible design process can be trickier without an architect's help.

We are experts in designing homes to address our clients’ specific needs. When you need zero-threshold showers or entryways, special heights for countertops, wider corridors for a wheelchair, or other accessibility features, we can help correctly incorporate that into your home design.

6. You want to increase energy efficiency

With the recent surges in energy costs, the rising cost of living, and the ongoing climate crisis, designing a more energy-efficient home is becoming increasingly important.

If you're concerned about reducing energy-related costs and building more sustainably, hiring an architecture firm is 100% the way to go.

We understand how to make the best use of orientation, sunlight, shade, and building materials to help reduce the energy you need to cool, heat, or power your home.

Consider the cost of investing in architectural design services as the first step to long-term savings on your energy bills.

7. You need to hire an architect by law

In this State of Michigan, you're required by law to hire an architect for house plans where the living area exceeds 3,500 square feet.

But whether you legally have to hire an architect varies widely from state to state.

It's a good idea to ask your local building department for information on the laws for your state (or do a quick Google search) to be sure you understand local building regulations.

8. You need to get planning permission and permits

Navigating the whole planning, permitting, zoning, and building codes process can be an awful headache, especially when you haven't done it before.

You want the best chance of getting permission from your local building authorities to get going on that dream home remodel, addition, or new build, right?

Hiring an architecture firm is one of the best ways to help secure planning permission for your project.

With years of experience and a deep understanding of local building codes and zoning regulations, we will design with these in mind.

Then we will work with your contractor and your local planning and permit offices to answer any questions about the design to move your permit approvals and entire construction project along much quicker.

9. You want to increase your home's resale value

Without architectural services and planning, you might end up with awkward layouts in your home, poorly-designed features that don't stand the test of time, or construction costs that go awry.

Those mistakes can be hard to live with, and they really add up when you sell your home and lose money because you didn't hire an architect to design your home in the first place.

Architects’ fees are an upfront investment in getting exactly what you want and getting things right. And professional architecture services and expertise typically result in a well-designed home that will hold a higher value on the market.

10. You don't want to project manage

When you remodel your home, build an addition, or construct a house from the ground up, it's not just the contractor you need to worry about managing.

You also have to source and oversee structural engineers, interior designers, tradespeople, and a whole host of other consultants you might need.

That's a heap of communication, a ton of moving parts to manage, and a mess of paperwork.

If all that organization isn't something you want—or have time—to deal with, there is an answer: Hire an architect! An architect will know who to connect you with for these services, or will include the consultant’s services in their fees. With your contractor, architect, interior designer, and any other consultants working together from the beginning, you'll not only end up with a better-coordinated design and fewer design revisions per square foot, but it takes all that project management off your hands.

Phew!

In a recent blog post, we talk about why your architect and interior designer should work together and the advantages you get with that teamwork approach.

11. Most of all, you want to get the design just right

What you don't want is to walk into your home when it's all finished and say to yourself:

“What was I thinking?! Why did I design it like this?”

“That didn’t go as I planned. I made it worse than before.”

“Why didn't I think of that first?"

Nightmare, right?

What you want is to open the door to your dream home and experience a space that feels like it was designed just for you — because it was!

You want to look at every little design choice and think, "Wow, this is just perfect. I can't imagine how we could have done it any better."

And the best way to get that result is by working with an architect.

In the initial design stages, our architects ask you hundreds of questions. Everything from "what side of the bed do you sleep on?" and "can you comfortably reach that bottom shelf?" to "how do you entertain?"

By asking these and many other questions, we can more fully understand your situation and needs, help you think things through, and truly design for your life!

We help you make excellent decisions about what you need, want, and dream about having so you end up with a home that feels perfectly comfortable, functional, and most of all, beautifully designed for YOU.

Think hiring an architect is worth the money?

We hope now you understand the value an architect can bring to your home remodeling or new construction.

Hiring an architect to meticulously plan your home remodel, addition, or new construction will always result in a better-designed home that truly fits you and your lifestyle.

Think of it as an investment in your home, your future, your happiness.

With an architect, your home project will have a clear plan for progress, detailed drawings to help you make informed decisions and help construction crews avoid mistakes, and your professionally-designed home will hold its value in the future.

Want to chat to our architects about the value we can offer to your project and how we can even help save your sanity along the way? If so, we'd love to hear from you.

Get in touch today to get started.

The pros & cons of construction phasing for home remodels

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 18:20:00 GMT

The pros and cons of a phased approach for your home remodel

Your home remodel is on the horizon, and you have one thing on your mind: to phase or not to phase this major project? Yes, that is indeed the question. And we're helping you answer it in this blog.

According to the 2022 Houzz & Home Overview of U.S. Renovation, 55% of homeowners nationwide reported remodeling activity. Among the most popular renovations in 2021, interior rooms (70%), home systems (63%), and home exteriors (58%) topped the list.

This increase in remodeling projects reflects some of the changes we’ve experienced in the past few years, including the increase in time spent at home, working from home, more multi-generational family life, and bringing older homes up to date. Homeowners spent about 20% more on renovations in 2021 than in 2020, realizing the lifestyle value of living in a home designed and renovated to work for their needs.

Many of the most common home remodeling projects (in Michigan and across the midwest) will recoup anywhere from 45 - 90% of their cost in increased home sales price.

Want to make one change with the biggest payback? I often tell clients: It will probably surprise you to know that the project that will bring you the most bang for your buck is replacing your garage door.

Whether your own remodeling project is driven by the need to have a home that matches your lifestyle or by the desire to increase the financial value for selling your home in the future, you want to do all you can to have a trouble-free and budget-friendly process.

There are so many factors that add up in a home remodeling project, and with the wide range of costs for services and labor, construction materials, fixtures, finishes, mechanicals, appliances, lighting, etc., it is nearly impossible to pin down one easy option to manage your remodeling budget.

That makes time an attractive option for creating the flexibility you need to spread out some of the costs of your home remodeling project. And we understand why this often feels like the right thing to do.

Should you phase your remodeling project?

In reality, completing your home remodel construction in one go is typically the best strategy and it’s what we recommend. But we know sometimes that is not financially feasible. That's okay—you can still have the home of your dreams, just not all at once. A bit of patience, and you will get there.

Phasing a home remodel project over a longer schedule is undoubtedly an act of perseverance and requires your architecture and construction team to be on their planning A-game. Because when you have significant gaps between different project elements, a lot can go wrong without a carefully thought-out plan.

Let’s explore the pros and cons to help you think this through before you phase construction for your home remodel. After that, we will give you our insights on how to make the home remodel phasing route work for you!

Home remodel project phasing: the good stuff

Okay, let us begin this "for or against" showdown with the pros of phasing your home remodel. Thankfully, there is a good list in the “for” column.

Easier to manage budget
Of course, one of the most obvious benefits of phasing the construction of your home remodel is splitting the cost of your entire remodel into smaller, more manageable payouts. This is the perfect option if you are not able to pay the whole cost in a short timeframe, but can save enough every few months (or even years) to finance the work on a job-by-job basis.
More manageable
Remodeling your entire home, or even more than one room, at once can be overwhelming to manage. Perhaps you have young children or you travel for business and do not have time to coordinate the many moving parts of your home remodeling. Breaking it down into smaller bits can give you more flexibility and make it easier to oversee.
Design flexibility
By redesigning your home piece by piece, you have a chance to actually live in the newly remodeled space. Over time, you might realize you do not need a second bathroom upstairs, or perhaps having lived with the new floor in your kitchen, you want to choose a different complimentary tile for the mudroom. Phasing construction gives you the time to think things through.
Less disruption
Having your remodel done at once will rip your house apart, making it seriously disruptive to your life by giving you no option but to move out for a few months–especially with a whole-house remodel.

By phasing your remodeling projects, you will likely be able to keep living in your home for most of the process—by temporarily shifting your living space when needed. However, you may find it less chaotic and stressful to get away for a few days (or weeks!) during demolition work or other major work weeks.

Home remodeling phased approach: the not-so-good stuff

Now that you are excited about the pros of phasing your home remodel, let’s look at the other side of this double-edged sword and dig into the disadvantages of home remodel construction phasing.

1. More expensive

By phasing your home remodel out over more time, you will have to hire and deal with contractors and tradespeople again and again, as each small phased piece of your remodel project comes up.

This sporadic process is more costly over time than scheduling one complete, extended project. Also, your architect will need to develop new plans and your contractors will need to obtain permits and schedule inspections for each project.

When you phase a major remodel out over a year or more, there’s also more risk of creating re-work (and the costs that go with it), by having to remove or replace work done a couple phases earlier. Keep reading for more on that!

2. Takes longer

This one is a given. Prepare yourself for the possibility of waiting months or even years longer than you thought for the work on your home to be finished. Getting work completed in smaller phases means nailing down workers, obtaining permits, and rearranging your home life each and every time—all of which can push your remodel deadlines out further… and be a complete pain in the you-know-what.

Working in phases can also mean dealing with the construction and remodeling schedule issues that need more time to get the work crews, permits, and materials you need. Sometimes it can feel like you’re starting from scratch at every new phase!

3. Remodeling fatigue

When you've had builders, plumbers, electricians, etc., in your house for months, completely upending your home, it can cause what we call "remodeling fatigue." That overwhelming feeling that has you asking yourself, “What was I thinking?!” You start losing motivation and dread having to keep moving your furniture and your family yet again. Not fun.

4. More disruption

Rearranging work, child care, and your living situation to manage each small remodel project can be an absolute nightmare. Over an extended period, all that disruption can be exhausting, especially when it’s all complicated by weather delays, products out of stock, contractors running late, inspections overdue, etc.

5. Increased complexity

Home remodel projects are complex; more complex than meets the eye. So when working in phases, you really have to think things through from the beginning.

Understanding how each part of your home remodel project affects the others will help you plan each phase in the correct order. The last thing you want to do is discover you have to rip something apart that was finished (and paid for) in phase one so you can accommodate a new design element in phase three. Again, keep reading for more on that!

You can find more of our insights along with additional ideas about planning a safe and happy home renovation collected in this article by our friends at Porch.com.

Is a phased approach to home remodeling the winner?

Do the pros outweigh the cons for you? What do you need to consider when planning your home remodel design and construction project over time?

Here are the three essential steps we know will help make any phased home remodeling work better:

Budget wisely
Map out every single project you want to get done to make your home remodel a reality. Add up a rough budget for every project – work closely with your architect and your contractor to do this and be honest about your budget limitations and your priorities.

Know your trade-offs, must-haves, and even where you want to splurge. Do not forget to include materials, appliances, and labor costs, account for tax and delivery costs, and add 10 to 20% for unexpected changes or hidden monsters .
Prioritize projects
With guidance from your architect and contractor, you can determine what work you need to complete first. This will be the most important stuff, and often these first projects are about spending where you do not see it – foundation or plumbing repairs, electrical upgrades, insulation, new windows, and so on.

But many times, these are critical to fix or do before moving on to the rest of your home renovation projects. Prioritizing each phase will also ensure you are spending your budget on the essential elements first, giving you time to think through other parts of your project.
Design a master plan
Creating a master plan for your home remodel will involve more design and planning with your architect. Still, investing in a master plan will save you money over time by driving efficiency, minimizing errors or design conflicts, and keeping everyone involved on track and crystal clear about what work they have to do.

Your architect and contractor will work together to have a thorough, phased plan with timelines, budgets, and logical order. Plus, that master plan makes it far more likely you will end up with the result you wanted.

Need expert help phasing your home remodel?

Do you feel a little clearer about phasing (or not phasing) your home remodeling project?

Great, that is just what we wanted!

Have you decided to go ahead with a phased approach but are nervous about the complexity it involves?

Don’t worry! We have your back.

Our talented Studio Z team has great experience working with phased remodeling and home design projects. Through our thoughtfully-designed master plans, we can help you gain clarity on your vision and priorities, work more realistically with your budget, and help you coordinate every element of your grand design through each stage of construction.

At Studio Z, we can help you transform your home into the one you really want (and totally deserve) — one that beautifully reflects your personality, lifestyle, and needs while functioning effortlessly to make everyday life that bit better.

Get in touch with Studio Z today to get started.

Why your interior designer & architect should work together

Tue, 24 May 2022 18:30:00 GMT

Better together: Working with an architect and interior designer from the start

Renovating your home or building a new one from the ground up is a massive investment. So you want to do everything you can to ensure it goes smoothly, right? You're spending hard-earned cash to end up with the home you've always dreamed of — this is not the time to deal with expensive mistakes, delays, or design headaches.

One way to make sure your home remodel or new build goes off without a hitch is for your interior designer and architect to work together from the get-go. While some architects work independently of interior designers, we wholeheartedly believe that having our architects collaborating with our in-house interior designer from the very beginning is key to a successful, enjoyable, and smooth project execution.

Why are we so sure this works? Well… we’ve been working this way for years now, and we see how it makes a difference, especially for our clients’ experience and the overall quality of the completed home project.

In this blog post, we're exploring the many awesome benefits of our integrated interior design and architecture approach and how it can help you avoid common remodel or new build mishaps, delays, and budget creep. Let's get into it!

First, let's look at the difference between architects and interior designers

Before we dive into the benefits of our architects and interior designers teaming up from the very beginning of your project, we thought it would be helpful to clear up any confusion about what architects and interior designers actually do . We also want to explain the difference between interior designers and interior decorators.

What an architect does

Architects essentially design the "bones" of your house using detailed drawings and 3D visualization software. They create your floor plan, indicating where every window, stair, door, and closet will go, ceiling heights, wall positioning, and other essential built-in features like power outlets, ventilation, and plumbing fixtures.

An architect’s in-depth knowledge of light, space, and construction principles helps them create thoughtfully-designed homes that perfectly respond to your lifestyle, needs, and desires, and work with your property/construction site.

What an interior designer does

If an architect designs the "bones" of your house, then our in-house interior designer creates the "skin," helping you select finishes and fixtures like countertops, tile, flooring, cabinetry, and plumbing and lighting fixtures. Our interior designer works to your comfort level, whether you just want guidance or a full-service approach that includes product sourcing.

What does an interior decorator does

Finally, the interior decorator adds the "clothing," helping you choose final touches like furniture, window treatments, pillows, artwork, wall paints, decór, and other accessories. They align your home with your personal style while working with our interior designer and architects to ensure the "clothing" is the right fit.

While Studio Z doesn’t provide these final decorating services, we’re always happy to work along with our clients’ interior decorators to make sure your completed home project is beautifully coordinated, down to every last detail.

The benefits of architect and interior designer collaboration

Now you know the differences between architects, interior designers, and interior decorators, let's discuss why we're huge advocates for architects and interior designers working together from the word "go."

Reduce design conflicts

When your architect and interior designer join forces, you can expect everything to go much smoother. They'll fuse your ideas with their visions for your home into one harmonious design. They will make sure their plans line up perfectly, make sense, and don't fight with each other (like making sure that freestanding bath you want can actually fit into your bathroom space!).

Minimize miscommunications

By centralizing communication between our architects, interior designer, and your builder, there's less chance of things getting lost in translation or essential information falling through the cracks in email threads and phone calls. You and your contractor will only have one point of contact to check in with, rather than two — minimizing the margin for error and forgotten details.

More thoughtful, logical designs

There's a kind of "butterfly effect" when designing a home. Let's say you and your interior designer are discussing extending your kitchen cabinets; if the interior designer checks with the architect, they find out that change will block light coming in from the window. If they are collaborating, the architect can update the plan adding another window to compensate so it won’t become a problematic dark kitchen. This level of detail and synchronization is only possible when they work together at the start.

Fewer service fees

If you hire an interior designer and architect separately, they'll rack up extra admin hours with all the communication back and forth between the three of you. Those are bills you'll have to pay. Working with our in-house interior designer and architect simultaneously is more time-efficient for everyone and, therefore, more cost-effective for you.

Minimize expensive mistakes

Sometimes mistakes happen during construction that could've been avoided with more collaborative planning and communication. We know every project will have at least some changes, but by working as a team, we can flag issues and resolve them on paper before going into the construction phase. This helps reduce the number and cost of revisions, minimize mistakes, and keep the project on track.

Make better-informed decisions

With access to two experts at once, you'll be able to make sense of your ideas and narrow down selections, finishes, and other design elements much faster. We'll be able to guide you on the best options that work both for the interior and architecture aspects, helping you think things through (with your budget in mind), knowing everything will fit together perfectly.

Get the job done faster

By teaming up from the start, we can streamline communications and limit the amount of back-and-forth and phone tag. This helps reduce the number of change orders in your project (too many changes always add up in money and time) and quickly resolve issues that could delay your project. That kind of teamwork makes for faster, more seamless project execution from ideas and design through completed construction.

Reduce budget creep

When you don't have exact finishes and fixtures selected before approaching your contractor, they may make assumptions about the level of quality you are looking for and give you inaccurate pricing, leading to unexpected cost increases down the line.

Since our design services can include both architecture and interior specifications, you can present these details to your contractor for a more accurate quote from the start, which will help reduce budget creep. Even if you don’t choose to include our full interior design services, we can provide allowance numbers to your contractor based on our preliminary interior design discussions with you.

Want to try an integrated approach for your remodel or new build?

We hope this article has helped you understand why interior designer and architect collaboration leads to more successful home remodeling and new build projects. From saving time, money, and stress to creating a more cohesive finished home, there's no denying working together from the start is the way to go.

If you're ready to start planning your new home design, you can choose to work with our architecture team and our in-house interior designer. Take advantage of our teamwork and experience the benefits of a truly coordinated project for yourself.

At Studio Z, we can help you transform your home into the one you really want (and totally deserve). We believe your best home is one that beautifully reflects your personality, lifestyle, and needs while functioning effortlessly to make everyday life that bit better. Get in touch today to get started.

Don't star in your own home remodeling horror show

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 03:43:00 GMT

12 Terrifying home renovation monsters that can lurk behind the door of your remodeling project

… and how to avoid the scary parts and get to a happy ending

We’ve probably all shared that scary movie moment when, helpless in our theater seat with sweating palms, we watch while the heroine innocently reaches for the door knob.

“Don’t open that door!” we shout inside our heads (or aloud, depending on our inhibitions).

We already know the monster lurks on the other side. We try to warn. The door is opened.

We cover our eyes to avoid what inevitably comes next.

I’ve been an architect specializing in residential projects for more than 20 years. I’ve seen a lot of scary “monsters” appear when I have worked on existing houses. Support beams that were undersized because the homeowner asked the contractor to make the house two feet wider. Sagging roofs that, over time, pushed walls to bow outward.

The initial fright of uncovering the unexpected secretly crouching in the walls, attic, or foundation is often exceeded by the terror of realizing the added time and expense these add to a remodeling project.

As an architect, one of my primary goals is to counsel homeowners on what they might find when starting a renovation project. The troubles lurking beneath and behind will still be there, but at least together we can make allowances and prepare strategies to triumph over these villainous contingencies.

If you're renovating a home in the Ann Arbor area, chances are you are not the first owner to make changes to your house.

Depending on the age of your home, you may have inherited a house haunted by renovation work problems that can be scary and costly to undo. From poor DIY projects and questionable workmanship to outdated building materials and out-of-code systems, the monstrous problems you uncover during renovation may need to be dismantled before you can start any new work.

Every older home has some variation on the “boogeyman” ready to jump out of dark corners just as you get started with your home renovation plan. And, older homes in southeast Michigan have some of their own very local scary monsters.

What we learned from horror movies is that once our heroine knows what’s hiding, she gets past her fear and is ready to take on the monster and win.

So, how can you be prepared to take on the scary surprises when working on your home renovation?

1. Inadequate insulation

Homes built before the 1980s were built when energy was cheap. They are often under-insulated or possibly not insulated at all because of the price of heating fuel. We now know that it’s better to keep our heated and conditioned air inside rather than letting it escape through our walls and roofs. And, when renovating a home in Michigan, chances are your project will include some additional steps to help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Adding insulation is a good intention, but be aware this can change the way that water vapor moves through the walls, which can, in turn, cause mold and mildew to form. It’s wise to consult an expert before adding barrier materials to assess how our friend and simultaneously potential foe — moisture — will be handled.

2. Undersized electrical panels & knob and tube wiring

We own a lot more electrical devices now than people did in the early- to mid-20th century — just think of the number of hair dryers, curling irons, shavers, electric toothbrushes and other devices you probably have in your bathroom (not counting the appliances, computers, and televisions in the house).

Most older homes that haven’t been updated have 60-amp electrical panels with screw-in fuses rather than circuit breakers. Definitely not up to the demands of today’s home. In fact, if your renovation project reveals that your electrical system is too old for current building codes, you will need an electrician to bring it “up to code.”

A home today is better served by 150- to 200-amp (or more) service, and some insurance companies are refusing to insure homes with outdated electrical panels. Not many things are as frightening as an insurance agent saying “No” to issuing a policy on an oversized risk! When you renovate your home, you should ask your electrician to calculate the estimated loads and size the electric panel accordingly.

Knob & tube wiring

If screw-in fuses don’t frighten you, consider that homes built before the 1940s are likely to have knob and tube wiring, which was not designed to handle the electrical loads we need for all our devices today. If that weren’t scary enough on its own, cellulose and spray foam insulation cannot be installed where knob and tube wiring is present because the heat produced by this outdated method of wiring can cause the insulation to catch fire!

It’s important to plan to replace an obsolete electrical system as part of any renovation project. Along with a new electrical panel and increased service, typically includes wiring all power outlets to be grounded. This should also include a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), which is a quick circuit breaker that will cut electric power to the outlet within 1/40th of a second in the event of a ground fault. This practically instant disconnect from power can help prevent house fires.

3. Galvanized plumbing pipes (star of The Perils of Old Plumbing)

Galvanized pipes

Many homes built before the 1960s have galvanized plumbing supply lines. Supply lines are the pipes that bring water from your water meter to your faucets. Galvanized pipes are steel pipes with a zinc coating on the inside. Over time, this zinc coating erodes, which causes the insides of the pipes to corrode, causing low water pressure by blocking the pipes.

Corroded pipes can also leak at the joints. Those old galvanized pipes are another hiding monster you may be required to chase away with more reliable modern pipe materials, such as PVC or copper replacement pipes, when you remodel your kitchen or bathroom.

4. Orangeburg sewer lines (co-star in The Perils of Old Plumbing)

Orangeburg pipe

Dating back to the mid-20th century, Orangeburg pipe was made of layers of wood fiber and pitch and was used for piping sewage from houses to the main sewer line. During World War II, inexpensive Orangeburg pipe became popular in southeastern Michigan home construction because cast iron — the material sewer pipes were typically made from — was subject to a heavy tax.

Over time, Orangeburg pipe tends to absorb moisture, deform under pressure and eventually disintegrate. If your home was built between the late 1940s and the mid-1960s, you may have Orangeburg pipe. Sorry, but again, just the architect as messenger here: It should be replaced.

5. Asbestos, lead paint, and radon

A lot has been written about these potential dangers. Although these adversaries may be as familiar to most as Frankenstein, Dracula, and the Wolfman, it’s still worth the expense to hire an expert to advise you about the best way to identify and remove or encapsulate these threats.

While asbestos and lead paint may be more likely found in homes built before 1960, high radon levels are not limited to older homes. When building a new home or renovating a home in Ann Arbor or elsewhere in southeastern Michigan, we encourage you to have radon levels tested and seek remediation early on in your project. In fact, many local governments require radon abatement measures as part of all larger renovation projects.

6. Hacked-up structure from old renovations

Hacked up floor joists

Homes that are so old that they may have been built without indoor plumbing, or that have been renovated a few times, may have floor joists, wall studs, and beams that have been cut or notched inappropriately. These cuts weaken the structure but can and should be repaired when they are found. Unfortunately, even the best-intended builders can create terrifying problems when disregarding the laws of physics.

7. Furnace and water heater capacity

If you are building an addition, you should check with a heating and cooling contractor to assess the capacity of your existing furnace. Although many older furnaces were oversized, if yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, it might be time to replace it.

If you are adding a bathroom or two, you should also consider the size of your water heater. If you run out of hot water when taking a long shower, you’re already stretching the capacity of your water heater. You may want to replace the existing unit with a larger model, add a second water heater to serve only the new bathrooms, or replace your water heater with a tankless water heater.

8. Fireplace and chimney and exhaust, oh my

Rust and gaps in the firebox

Even if the fireplace hearth and mantel are in good shape, it’s what you don’t see – those ghostly apparitions – that can add work to a home renovation. Cracks or holes in the brickwork around the hearth, or rust and cracks in the firebox need to be addressed and fixed before using the fireplace.

The exhaust system for your furnace and water heater may be tied into your chimney. This needs to be thoroughly inspected for cracks, damage, and any leaks in the flue liner. These problems must be repaired before your furnace can be used again.

Along with checking for chimney damage – inside and out – be sure to remove debris from inside the chimney, and add weather and critter caps to the top of the chimney to keep out uninvited guests.

Exterior chimney repairs may include adding or replacing flashing at the roof line and the chimney stack to avoid dealing with monster roof damage and leaks.

9. Up on the roof

Aging chimney flashing

In addition to potential damage around the chimney or exhaust pipes, there are other scary things hiding just under those roof shingles. If gutters have backed up with ice year after year, water can seep into the outer walls, drip onto ceilings, and create problems even before the telltale water stain shows up.

Previous roof repairs and patches can cause weak spots and invite leaks or storm damage. North-facing roofs may show a build up of moss or even mold over time. Both can be corrosive to roofing materials and compromise the integrity of your roof.

Poor roof ventilation in the attic space can contribute to moisture buildup, which may lead to mold growth that can go unnoticed. High humidity in the home may also show up as condensation on windows and doors, and be a sign of inadequate air flow through a poorly designed or improperly vented attic.

10. Damp basements or crawl spaces

While we’re talking about the damp disasters, we have to mention basements and crawl spaces. It doesn’t take a huge renovation project to unleash the moisture monsters: mold, mildew, and water. Often, it’s the part of the house below ground level that takes the worst attack.

From leaky pipes that can be easily repaired or replaced to poor drainage around the exterior perimeter of the house, the goal is to find and fix the issue at the source, before it creates major long-term problems.

Before starting any home renovation, it’s worth the effort to have a thorough inspection to identify water-related problems, foundation cracks, and leaks anywhere in the house. Standing water, seeping water behind walls or under tile, can cause sub-floors, joists, and studs to rot, leading to hazardous structural damage.

Very scary beam support

Look out for telltale tracks of water stains, at best, or even health-threatening black mold. Too often, by the time it’s noticed, water damage can be more extensive than the visible scars.

And while you’re checking out that crawl space or basement, look for adequate beam support. If a basement column was removed in the past, the floor above may be weakened and unable to bear as much weight as it should. Or, if you spot some scary DIY support systems rigged to hold up the floor, you’ll want to determine exactly what’s going on before you start any renovation work.

11. Things that hide in the wall

What’s in your walls?

There’s something especially frightening about a horror movie with infestations and insect attacks. What creeps in and out of the old walls in your renovation project may require specialized Bugbuster action.

Termites and carpenter ants silently eat their way through your home’s structural support, mice sneak in and out of ductwork, bats hang out in your attic, and hornets buzz and build their nest in the eaves. Left on their own, these critters can cause damage to your home or your health.

A thorough inspection by an exterminator can pinpoint the pesky pest and take care of them so when you do get around to taking down that wall in the kitchen, the most frightening thing you’ll find is an old newspaper and a couple of beer bottles left behind by the 1960’s drywall team.

12. Undersized framing members

As the basic structure, framing (done right) holds up the house, keeps the roof in place, and prevents the walls from bowing. Depending on the age of your original construction and the quality of previous renovations, repairs, and DIY projects, you may encounter issues related to undersized framing. This is especially critical if your renovation project involves finishing an attic or adding to your second floor. If the existing attic floor framing isn’t sized to support living spaces, additional structural work will be needed to accommodate the new rooms.

Another challenge encountered in older homes is that the original roof framing may be supported on a thin ridge plate rather than on a sturdy beam. Over time, this ridge plate sags, which pushes out the middle of the walls. If you’ve ever spotted an old house with a “swayback” roof, you’ve seen the sag.

If the studs and beams used in the past were less than adequate in size or number, you may notice walls that seem to sag or bow out of line – a potentially serious weakness that must be addressed by your new renovation work. A contractor I once worked with said, “They don’t make ‘em like they used to, and that’s a good thing!”

Plan for Happy Endings: Take the Horror out of Your Remodeling Project

As you can see, there are a lot of scary renovation beasts that can jump out and grab you (and your savings) when you remodel your home.

At Studio Z, we recommend setting aside a contingency fund of 10–25 percent of the cost of construction to cover these potential expenses (your monster extermination fund). That way, when confronting these villains, you can look them in the eye and shout: “You can’t scare me. My architect warned me you might be hiding behind that door!”

Studio Z - Your Home Renovation Ghostbusters

If you're ready to take the first step to get going on your project, get in touch with Studio Z Architecture. We can help you transform your home into the one you really want (and totally deserve.) Our woman-led team of experienced architects is here to help you bring your vision to life with a home that's so beautifully “YOU.”

This blog post is updated and based on an article originally written by Studio Z’s founder and principal, Dawn Zuber, FAIA, as a guest columnist for Hometown Life , part of the USA Today Network.

Hiring an Architect? Here’s What to Expect & How to Prepare

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 23:53:00 GMT

So, you're ready to start working with an architect on your dream Michigan home. It's an exciting time but one that's inevitably filled with nerves - especially if it's your first time hiring an architect. You are probably wondering what's involved. What questions do you need to ask? What questions will the architect ask you?

To have an enjoyable experience working with your architect, it's a good idea to prepare yourself as best you can for your first few encounters. This blog will help you do just that. With this guide, we hope to take away the architect mystique to show you what you can expect when you work with an architect.

What to prepare before your first meeting

Whether you love the classic 1940s-style Michigan bungalow homes or want a clean, modern vibe, having your ideas organized will help us get an idea of what you want.

We love it when clients have some visual examples of homes they like and different features and styles that appeal to them. Clients used to come to us with binders of magazine cutouts or books tagged with sticky notes, but there are better ways to organize your ideas with modern tools. Ideabooks on Houzz or Pinterest boards are a fantastic jumping-off point for your first meeting with an architect as it allows you to add comments directly to the visuals. Some clients put together Word documents with photos and descriptions of their ideas, while others create PowerPoint presentations.

Whatever method works best for you to explore and collect your ideas works best for us. And don’t worry if you have a lot of different ideas - as long as there are plenty of images, we can usually identify a common theme. Bonus points if you can tell us what you like about each image.

Be prepared to trust your architect

Before meeting with your architect, figure out your budget limitations. Know how much you'd ideally like to spend to get everything you want and how far you're willing to stretch. Most importantly of all, be honest with your architect about it from the very beginning.

You might worry that your architect and contractor will work to your maximum budget; if you tell them your budget is $500,000, will they automatically come up with a $499,999 quote? It’s only natural to feel protective of your money — you want to use it as wisely as possible.

But the key to managing your budget is to be open about it from the beginning. This makes it possible for your architect and contractor to provide their insights and honest reality checks that will help you balance your wants and design decisions with your budget expectations.

This is where your architect’s experience and knowledge really pays off.

How your first encounter will go
Spoiler alert: There will be questions.

Typically, we begin with an email, phone call, or a Zoom meeting – sometimes all three – and will ask you lots of questions about your vision for your home renovation project or new home and your timeframe and budget. This will help us figure out if we're a good fit for each other. We may even ask you to give us a virtual tour of your home using your phone or laptop so that we can get a real sense of your space.

At Studio Z, our design team takes time getting to know each client really (really) well to get a sense of how you'll use your home. You can expect very specific questions about your work life, hobbies, family life, and interests. These questions might surprise you, but they help us get all the details right, so your home feels, functions, and looks exactly right for you.

Examples of questions we ask:

Do you have kids who live at home? How old are they? What do they love to do at home?
Do you have family members who stay with you? How long do they visit?
Do you think your parents might live with you in the future?
How often do you entertain? Are your parties large or small, casual or formal?
Do you have pets? Big or small? Do they let you share the furniture with them?
Do you work from home? What kind of needs do you have for a work-from-home space?
Do you have a Komodo dragon that you need an enclosure for? (Hopefully not.)

Yes, we can get a little personal, and you'll see how we connect the dots between these interview stages, your final design, and a new (or “new”) home that will delight you.

What to expect from your first in-home meeting

The first thing we do is a walk-through of your home - wearing our colorful Studio Z shoe covers to ensure we're not tracking any dirt in (we're not sure if this is something all architects do, but it's definitely a Studio Z thing!).

Even if you're building a new custom home, we would still love to have a tour of your current home to get an idea of how you live now, what you want to change with the new home, and see what kind of furniture you have so we can design to accommodate it.

During the walk-through, we'll ask you what you like about your space, what you don't like, what works for you, and what doesn't. If you are planning a renovation, this helps us better understand the specifics of how you envision your home changing.

Afterward, we'll sit down with you either at your kitchen table or in the living room and cover more details about what you want for your renovation or custom home. We take lots of notes to document the conversation so we can easily refer back to all the details.

How often you’ll meet with your architect

Schematic Design Phase
Typically, you'll see us the most during the schematic design phase. Before contractors pick up a single tool, first we pretty much build your home on paper. As we develop the design and add details, we will meet with you often, from two times up to six (or more, if needed). These design meetings take place over the course of 2-4 months, depending largely on your availability and design decisions. We'll also leave a few weeks between each meeting so you have time to review and digest the new details and share your feedback and questions.
Contractor interviews
When we move on to the next phase, we'll help you interview contractors to find the perfect fit for the project and get a few preliminary estimates. We typically recommend that you talk to two or three contractors–more can be challenging for you to schedule, and it’s a little unfair to ask them to spend a lot of time preparing cost estimates when they have a low probability of getting the job. Given that, you can expect two to three more meetings during this time. Because these preliminary cost estimates will provide you with a budget reality check, we typically don’t continue working on the project until you are comfortable with the estimates you’ve received.
Design development review
At the end of the design development phase, we'll meet again to review the structural, mechanical, and electrical decisions. For example, it’s important to understand why we've placed columns and beams in certain areas and where mechanical systems will be installed. We'll also talk about the electrical plan for your home, including the types of light fixtures, switches, and outlets and where they are located.

We may meet again when the construction documents are finished.
Site visits
During construction, we'll make site visits at intervals appropriate to the stages of construction. We can coordinate these visits with you if you’d like to join us. We’ll typically look at the construction progress and note any differences we observe between what we designed and what was built. For each site visit, we create a field report for you, typically a one-page document outlining who was on site, what kind of work was being done, what we observed, and any additional information that is needed. We also take photos of the work.
Correspondence
We like to keep all our information in one place using Google docs, including meeting minutes, designs, field reports, etc. In our project Project Q&A spreadsheet, we'll have two columns, one for your questions and responses, and one for ours. It makes it easy for you—or us—to quickly note a question, share an idea, and respond.

Keeping everything together this way helps ensure nothing falls through the cracks in a long email thread. Because Google docs are easily searchable, finding specific information on your project is much more efficient. Also, this ensures that any Studio Z staff member can find the information they need to work on your project.
Construction updates
Many contractors use project management software that allows you to log in and get daily updates on how your construction is taking shape. They'll be in charge of keeping you regularly updated while we visit the site every few weeks to check in on progress and create our field reports.

Now you're fully prepared. What's next?

We hope this blog has helped you better understand what to expect when meeting with your architecture firm to build or renovate your Michigan home. From getting ideas and budgets ready before your first meeting to having an understanding of the overall process, everything is a little less daunting when you see what's coming, right?

Why You Should Start Your Home Renovation Now

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 20:51:00 GMT

Back in March 2020, many of us suddenly found ourselves spending much more time in our homes than ever – no longer heading out the door to drop the kids at school, commute to the office, meet friends for dinner and a movie, dash into the mall for some shopping therapy, or fly off to attend a conference or enjoy a beach vacation.

The pandemic kept people home, resetting our lives and our spaces for the new 24/7 home, sweet home … office-classroom-fitness center-restaurant-spa-dorm-movie theater-vacation resort-and more.

In the short-term, adjusting to work and school from home was about cleaning out closets, moving dining room tables, shopping online for home office organization solutions, prowling Pinterest and Houzz for inspiration to help create multi-purpose spaces.

Two years on, and we see many people taking bigger steps to create a home that is truly designed to work for their changed needs and lifestyle. The extended time at home put a bright spotlight on previously-ignored problems or otherwise acceptable flaws in the space and function of the home. For those back to the old work routine there may even be more frustration coming home every day to a house that now, more than ever, just doesn’t fit.

What about you? Has the added time at home revealed issues and sparked ideas for how your space could better support your needs and match your lifestyle?

Maybe you started noticing some changes you wanted to make to give your space a refresh for both function and style.

Maybe you left the corporate HQ office behind and started to enjoy working remotely from the relative comfort of home, trading in commuter drive time for relaxing or productive start-your-day time. Maybe you gave up the corporate work and started your own business. Maybe you switched off work altogether to homeschool the kids, or retire early, or focus on caring for aging parents.

Whatever your new normal, chances are your home hasn’t kept up with your changing life.

Redesign. Renovate. Renew.

What does your home need?

Does having a dedicated home office now top your priority list?

Do you wish your home had more connection with the outdoors?

Would it be nice to have spaces better designed to accommodate multiple people simultaneously involved in different activities?

If it’s become apparent that your home isn’t serving your needs and you’re ready for a change, it’s actually a great time to start a renovation project. Especially if you have already waited two year, getting by with your space while longing to get it just the way you want it.

The way we see it, this isn’t about waiting for life to get back to some version of normal, it’s about taking charge and renovating your home to fit your life now – this can be your big step toward a happy new normal.

What are you waiting for? Even though we still face uncertain times, there are definite benefits for homeowners who choose to remodel now. It may seem counterintuitive, but putting off home design projects until later will put you at a disadvantage.

If you need more incentive (as if working on your laptop at the kitchen table for two years isn’t enough), here are three reasons to get started now.

Rates are Great

Choosing to remodel your home now means you can take advantage of low interest rates. As of Feb 2022, Home Equity Loans are approximately 5.96%* and Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC) rates are about 4.27%**.

[Updated 2/17/2023: HELOC rates range from 6.49% – 8.77%, with an average are at an average 7.79%.]

And remember that the interest you pay on home equity loans and home equity lines of credit, or HELOCs, is tax deductible if the money is used to remodel, repair, or otherwise improve the value of the home that secures the loan.

Plan Ahead

Most home remodels and renovations require several months to develop the plans, make selections, choose a contractor, and get building permits. After that, depending on the scope of the project, there can be many months of on-site work for demolition, construction, and finishing.

We don’t need to meet with you in person for most of the pre-design and design process. At Studio Z, we offer virtual client meetings to make this process safer and more comfortable. We also follow our own strict guidelines for all in-home visits, including when we measure and take photos of the existing conditions.

By starting the design process now, you’ll be able to move forward with pre-design and planning with your architect, start choosing your fixtures and finishes, and review and select contractors – and get on their schedules as soon as possible.

As with much of the U.S., there is a real estate and home construction boom in Ann Arbor and the Detroit metro area. Architects, contractors, trades, and service providers need plenty of advance time to schedule projects and place materials orders to accommodate supply shortages and shipping delays.

The longer you wait to begin your project, the longer it will be before you can start construction and the longer you’ll continue to live in a home that isn’t best suited for your lifestyle.

Start at Z

By working with Studio Z to start or continue your home renovation, you have another advantage: the Studio Z Team Approach . Our flexible project delivery method allows us to work together through the phases of the discovery process to create a home design that you’ll love.

As part of this Team Approach, we make a point to bring contractors into the process early on. This upfront teamwork gives you a better understanding of what is possible and what’s realistic within your budget and timetable. We all work as a team through key decisions at every phase to help keep your project on track.

The Studio Z Team Approach means that we will be able to quickly adapt the design and build process so that it’s tailored to your needs.

Are you seriously considering a remodel or building your dream home? Let Studio Z design to delight you!

Let’s talk! Contact us to schedule your initial call with our team.

* https://www.bankrate.com/home-equity/home-equity-loan-rates/

** https://www.bankrate.com/home-equity/heloc-rates/

Designed To Delight: Revisiting The Ann Arbor Home Giveaway

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Architectural renovation turned a small bungalow into a modern urban oasis

It is undoubtedly our most famous residential renovation project, but the Ann Arbor home we designed for the HGTV Urban Oasis contest is also one of our favorites—and not just because it was featured on TV!

HGTV chose Studio Z to modernize a 1925 bungalow into a beautiful, modern, timeless home for the network’s 2016 Urban Oasis home giveaway. While the contest winners opted to take a cash prize, the newly-renovated home was sold to a young couple who fell in love with its fresh, clean, and spacious design.

Fun fact: The new homeowners bought the house fully staged and furnished—there were even shirts hanging in the closet!

During the family’s time in this home, they welcomed two daughters into the world and realized they would need more space than the renovated bungalow’s 1,500 square feet provided. After nearly five happy years, they recently sold the home to gain much-needed space for their growing family.

Now, in 2022, five years after the project was completed, we thought it would be interesting to revisit the bungalow and see what still works today, what design features paid off, and offer some key considerations to help you design your own “Urban Oasis.”

What still works

The open plan: We created something truly timeless that makes sense and feels fresh even five years later. From the beginning, we knew an open plan was the way to give the small, 1,500 square foot home a sense of more space. The kitchen, dining, and living areas are connected in an open plan L-shape, giving a lovely feeling of fluidity and space in these core living areas.

The light: The vaulted ceiling and prominent dormer windows we added on the front of the house were some of our favorite features back then and still are today. The dormers bring light into the open plan living and dining areas, adding to the bright and spacious feeling.

The simplicity: Looking back on our design, we can see how its simplicity has helped the home age so well. The kitchen still stands up to modern design aesthetics without being trendy or dated. The efficient layout, bright windows above the sink, and a functional island surrounded by seats, give the kitchen a sense of openness.

What paid off

The use of space: We’re pretty proud of the fact that we managed to fit two and a half bathrooms into 1,500 square feet because it took some serious manipulating and moving things around to fit those into a limited space.

The flexibility: Because of the nature of HGTV’s giveaway, we didn’t know who would end up living there. It could have been a couple, a parent and their child, a single person who has guests coming to visit, or even someone with an aging parent. So we had to design flexibly with two primary suites, ensuring we accommodated many different types of family units. We even managed to design in a much-needed powder room on the first floor.

The porch: The large screened porch ended up being the go-to chill-out area for this couple and their family and friends. As a spacious extension of living space, it has certainly paid off in terms of social interaction and relaxation, with a television, fountains, and a view of the lovely backyard.

The efficiency: As for maintenance costs and efficiency, the west-facing porch gives the home plenty of shade, reducing the need for HVAC on hot summer days. The composite material we used on the exterior helped the paint hold up very well over the last few years, and the house is very well insulated.

The finishes: The tile walls in the kitchen, laundry room, and each of the bathrooms will make those spaces easy to clean. We used wide-plank engineered wood for the floors, which are easy to clean and maintain without re-sanding or refinishing.

What to consider for renovating your own home oasis today

Add a work-from-home space: Now that remote working is here to stay for many more people, you may want to consider dedicating an area to be a full-time home office. If you have limited square footage, like the Ann Arbor home, work with your architect to explore designing a flexible workspace that can easily be transformed for other purposes when needed.

Don’t prioritize reselling: What makes a home work really depends on who’s living in it. Who’s to say that you always need to have two or three bedrooms? Instead of focusing on “resale” value, put value into what you need to have in a home that truly works for you, your family, and your lifestyle. Design the spaces and rooms to function for your specific needs.

If it works for you, there will likely be someone else the home works for when it comes to reselling. And if it doesn’t, the future homeowner can remodel. If you’re not planning to sell the home for a long time, you’re likely to find yourself refreshing your designs and finishes at some point in the future, especially as your lifestyle and needs change.

Include outdoor living spaces: You want to create an oasis, right? So with that comes a focus on nature, well-being, and secluded areas—all of these can be found by expanding outdoor spaces, whether it’s adding a large backyard patio or wrap-around front porch.

Rethink huge bedrooms: Those glossy home design magazines would have you thinking a large primary bedroom footprint is the only way to go. But, if your bedroom is all about sleep and relaxation, that extra space may be better used to create another functional room, add practical storage, or increase core living areas.

Put your needs first: When designing your own urban oasis, think about your daily habits and lifestyle. Work with your architect and interior designer to address real needs right now, instead of worrying about what’s trendy or what might sell it in the future. Do you really need a formal dining room, for example? Want a custom studio for your artistic endeavors? We say, go for it. Try not to get sucked into trends if they don’t fit your lifestyle.

Design for a lifetime: When you’re designing your urban oasis, make sure you’re thinking about how it will work for your needs, not just now but in the future. How will home life change when your kids transform into teenagers or move out, or when you’re older and want a home that is easy to live in and simple to maintain? Planning ahead helps ensure you won't be faced with moving just because your space no longer suits your needs.

Want to know what else is involved?

Want to learn more about the Urban Oasis bungalow? Check out all the project details .

We hope this blog has given you a little more insight into how Studio Z took on the redesign challenge for HGTV, and how we can help you create your own personal oasis. If you need more food for thought and guidance to take on your own home renovation and design, our Studio Z team would love to help you out.

Why not give us a call , and tell us what you’re thinking for your dream urban oasis? We can help you understand what’s involved, give you an idea of pricing, and help you figure out whether our architecture firm is a good fit for you.

Find an Architecture and Interior Design firm with a Clear Idea of Who they Work with Best

Sat, 18 Dec 2021 15:41:00 GMT

How we click with our architecture and interior design clients

Choosing an architecture and interior design firm to bring your dream home to life can be a challenging process. Clients often struggle with deciding on a firm because there are many unknowns, which leads to second-guessing and uncertainty.

And, it’s no wonder—designing your dream home is likely the most significant investment you’ll ever make. In addition, you will be working together over an extended period of time, so a lot is riding on finding the right match.

Finding and choosing the right firm can mean researching, comparing options, looking at reviews, and attending numerous meetings to find the design professionals you connect with best. The key to it all is finding an architecture and interior design team who you feel comfortable with, who you know has your back, and who understands and can deliver what you envision.

It’s also important that your architecture and interior design firm has a clear vision of who their ideal clients are. If they work for anyone and everyone, then they likely don’t have specific experience with they type of work you want.

And when the relationship isn’t a good fit, problems can arise. Often, minor issues can turn into significant conflicts, and even subtle differences in how you relate with your architect and interior designer can amplify into big misunderstandings. The abilities to communicate, collaborate, and connect are essential for the success of your project.

With everything riding on how well you and your design team get along, going about the process of finding the right fit can almost seem like dating.

Are we a perfect match?

Just like you are on the hunt for your ideal architecture and interior design firm, we aim to find the right fit with our clients!

As with any design team, and based on our more than 24 years of experience, we have a good idea of the types of clients we work best with, and those we don’t.

This article will provide you with our insights into what we look for in our ideal clients.

Our goal is that sharing the traits our favorite clients have in common will *hopefully* help you to identify key criteria you can use in your search for your ideal architecture firm.

To give you an idea of who we love working with, here are the main things our favorite clients all have in common:

A realistic budget

One of the first things we nail down with our clients is their budget. Working with clients who have a realistic budget in mind makes everything easier. We’ll help you work out what your must-haves and nice-to-haves are, and help you understand what’s achievable. Our goal is to find a nice balance between your wish list and budget limitations.

Working with a realistic budget ensures you won’t be disappointed when you realize some things just aren’t feasible. On our side, it means we can better deliver what you have in mind without sacrificing essential elements of your design.

PRO TIP: When speaking to architecture firms, don’t be afraid to talk openly about your budget. Many clients withhold this information, perhaps out of fear that their architect will design a more expensive project if they know the client’s “true” maximum price, but that can lead to wasted time and effort. If you are upfront about your budget, your architect can be upfront about what you can expect.

A realistic timeline

In the same vein, having a realistic timeline is super important. Again, things tend to go more smoothly if you understand how long the design will take and are comfortable with the agreed timeline.

At Studio Z, as with any architecture and interior design firm that works on custom projects, there are no hard and fast rules for project timelines. Every project is unique, with different demands - there is no formula. It’s vital that our clients understand this.

It’s also important to understand that every decision, and every delay in decision-making, can have a ripple effect on the project schedule.

As we work together, we do our best to help you understand how certain choices will affect your timeline. But even the planning stages can take more time than clients expect. This is because we will essentially build your design on paper first, and it’s a creative process, not a simple click of a button.

With all projects, we outline key milestones and stay in constant communication. Having a clear schedule and regular contact is vital. Gaps in communication can leave clients feeling that progress has stalled, even if it hasn’t.

PRO TIP: Work with your design team to establish realistic timelines early in the process, and be sure to discuss how important decisions and changes can affect those timelines.

Trust in our expertise

For many of our clients, working with us is their first time working with an architect or interior designer. For that reason, we look for clients who are enthusiastic about learning how the design and building process works.

We see ourselves as guides for our clients, helping them on their journey to a better life and a happier home. An important part of that journey is that we have their trust.

It’s not that we will have every answer at a moment’s notice or that we are human supercomputers who can calculate material costs in our heads. Still, we do have quite a lot of knowledge, and, typically, that’s the main reason we hope clients hire us in the first place—because they trust our expertise.

And our projects tend to run faster when clients trust and rely on our know-how and the process we have designed over the years. We don’t claim to be perfect, but after completing 155 projects, we do know a thing or two about delivering results.

A key way we earn your trust is by listening to you and ensuring that we truly understand your needs, wants, dreams, and aesthetic goals. Our goal isn’t to design a Studio Z home; it’s to create your home.

PRO TIP: When considering hiring an architecture firm, make sure they put your interests and priorities first. Ask about their process and the level of involvement they want from you during the project. In our experience, the more you can contribute to the early stages of the project, the happier you’ll be in the end results.

Creative thinking only!

We love working on projects with unique conditions that challenge us. And when it comes to finding innovative solutions for design issues, like making the best use of a small space or expanding rooms with a tricky existing structure–that’s where we thrive.

So if you’re looking for creative solutions and a team that thinks outside the box, we might be the architecture firm for you.

PRO TIP: Check out your architect’s portfolio. Are all the projects similar in nature and design, or is there a wide variety of solutions and styles? The more varied the portfolio, the more experience your architect will have in creating a fully custom solution for you.

An exciting aesthetic

As with any art form, it’s all subjective. What makes good residential architecture is a very personal thing. However, it’s super-exciting when a client comes along with an aesthetic or style that resonates with us.

We love working on projects that we’d enjoy living in ourselves, and, quite honestly, we’ve felt that way about nearly every project we’ve worked on!

PRO TIP: Be prepared when working with your design team. You can create collections of images and inspirations on sites like Pinterest and Houzz. Be sure to share your ideas early on, and it’s helpful to add a note to explain what you like about each image. Watch for signs that your designers are as excited about what you want as you are.

A new stage of life

Many of our clients are women over 40 entering a new stage in their lives where (finally), it’s all about them! Their kids have moved out, they’re successful in their careers, and it’s time to make their home their own.

With the kids gone, they want a home where they can entertain friends, have time to focus on themselves, and enjoy their favorite hobbies.

Our work is about getting a complete picture of what that dream life looks like for you, so we can design a home that allows it to come true. Is it extra guest bedrooms for when family members come to visit, a room dedicated to your painting passion, or maybe extra counter space to explore your culinary skills and delight your guests?

PRO TIP: Before talking with your architect and interior designer, get crystal clear about what you want in your new home. The more you can clarify your goals, the easier it will be for the design team to help you achieve them.

They want to create a forever home

Another group of clients we love working with are those who want to set their houses up for the future so they can live independently for years to come. These clients tend to be in their older years and are ready to transform their home into a sanctuary that’s fitted for their unique abilities, perfectly functional for their lifestyle, and beautiful - all at the same time.

At this stage in their lives, a home remodel or extension can be daunting; that’s why we ensure they don’t have to worry about managing all the moving parts. We feel strongly that we are our clients’ advocates. We build such a solid and in-depth understanding of who they are, their limitations, and what they want to achieve to ensure those needs are met.

PRO TIP: Given the expense of remodeling or renovating your home, it’s best if you think about it as a long-term investment. For that reason, it’s essential to talk with your design team about how your needs may change over time.

One of our favorite projects

Our Cape Cod project definitely springs to mind when we think about some of our favorite clients. What was amazing about this project was that, after the remodeling, the house looked the same from the outside, yet the inside told a completely new story.

Once our client’s teenage daughters had grown, it was time to redefine their home to suit their changing lifestyle and prepare for the future. So we:

Added a new primary bedroom on the first floor to facilitate their needs as they got older
Added two large guest bedrooms and a new bathroom for their daughters to stay in when visiting with their families
Created more space for entertaining with a new family room, a bigger kitchen, and an open dining room

These changes resulted in a completely transformed home that made sense for our clients’ changing lifestyle priorities and the future they envisioned. It encapsulated everything they wanted and more and solved unique design challenges - we couldn’t be prouder of the result.

A Cape Cod Becomes Spacious

Think we might be a good fit for your home remodel?

We hope that after reading this, you have a better idea of the type of client we love working with. We also hope you have some great insights into working with your architect.

If you see yourself in a lot of what we wrote, we’d love to get to know you better and see if we’d be a good fit for each other.

The best way to truly know we’re the right team for you is by talking to us. This way, you can get to know us, ask us all of your questions, and see what we’re all about!

Want to chat with our team about your project? Get in touch today.

See what we did to help this Cape Cod become spacious

Record-High Lumber Prices Are Pushing Project Costs Through the Roof. Should You Delay?

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 18:12:00 GMT

Recently, we’ve been shocked by the preliminary cost estimates we’ve seen for construction projects due to increased lumber prices. A local contractor told me that a sheet of oriented strand board (OSB) which cost $8 a year ago, now costs $32. A colleague from Omaha shared his local lumberyard’s housing index, which indicates that a standard lumber package for a two-story home, including framing, roofing, siding, windows, and interior doors and trim, had shot up by almost 30% in 2020.

Some contractors are reporting that lumber package prices have doubled since late 2019. These cost increases have also caused cabinets, windows, trim, furnishings, and other wood products to be more expensive.

Lumber prices are at record highs for several reasons:

Restrictions around the COVID-19 pandemic slowed lumber harvesting and milling, while construction remained strong through 2020 due to low interest rates and lockdown-motivated home improvements.
Supplies waned, but demand grew.
Weather and transportation issues have also contributed to decreased lumber supplies.

A typical schematic design drawing.

In other words, if a client’s budget is $250,000 and the preliminary cost estimates range from $275,000 to $350,000, the client faces a decision: scale back the project or increase their budget. It’s much easier to scale back the design when we are still in the schematic design phase.

Once we start developing the design and thinking about specific details like structural layout, electrical plans, heating and cooling systems, and exact cabinet layouts--it becomes much more expensive to change the design.

Clients have asked if we think lumber prices will come down, and when. We certainly hope they do, but there’s no way to know for sure what will happen. However, the current low rates for mortgages and Home Equity loans might help offset the high cost of building materials.

If you’re thinking about remodeling your existing home or building a new home later this year, we recommend that you start the design process now. Once you have schematics, go ahead and get a few preliminary cost estimates. You’ll be better prepared to decide whether to continue with the design process, or put your project on hold until lumber prices are lower. We’d be more than happy to talk through the options. Give us a call !

A project under construction.

So what should you do?

When working with our clients on a remodel or new custom home, we always suggest they contact a few different builders to obtain preliminary cost estimates after completing the schematic design process, but right now it’s even more important.

A schematic design is typically a rough floor plan and exterior elevations of a proposed project, without details like precise dimensions, window manufacturer and unit sizes, or information about cabinetry, countertops, finishes, and fixtures. These design documents are sufficient for a builder to provide an idea of how much the project will cost to build, but are much less detailed than what would be necessary to obtain a building permit or construct the project.

At this point in a project, things aren’t so far along that we can’t change the design to reflect budget constraints if needed.

Step Away From the Big Box Store

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 17:03:00 GMT

Are you planning to update your home but feeling concerned about getting in over your head?

In the video below , Studio Z’s interior designer, Dayna Tooman, explains how we can help you select products and finish materials for your project, even if you plan to buy the materials from a big box store and do the work yourself.

Learn how a professional interior designer can help you with your project.
Discover how to avoid mismatching colors. Did you know that there are hundreds of “oil-rubbed bronze” colors, each slightly different depending on the manufacturer?
Find out why you might need to hire a professional designer and what exactly they would do for you.
What are the pros and cons of renovating using materials from a big box store?

Are you interested in speaking with our team about your project idea? Contact us and schedule a 30-minute call to get your questions answered and discover what value Studio Z can provide your project.

What Does It Mean When A House Has Good Bones?

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 13:00:00 GMT

Have you heard someone describe a house as having “good bones” and wondered what exactly this means? While it can mean different things to different people, to us, good bones means one or more of the following things:

The home is structurally sound
The interior is arranged in a way that you can work with, or can be rearranged to fit you
There’s space to build an addition
The home has a lot of light and great views, or there are places where windows can be added to enhance the light and views
The home has character--details that really “make” the house

If a house can have good bones, can houses also have “bad bones”? Of course they can, but we don’t really use that term. However, there are some warning signs you should watch out for when looking at a potential new home. Watch the video above to learn more about how to tell if a home has good bones and what red flags you need to pay attention to when looking for your new home.

Did you know that an architect can give you valuable insight to help you decide whether to buy a particular home? When we view homes that our clients are considering, we can help you evaluate the home to see how well it will fit your family, and can provide sketches illustrating the design possibilities the homes have. This insight helps our clients truly understand if a property is worth the initial investment and how much work will need to be done--and how much money will be needed--to transform a home into their dream home.

Are you seriously considering a remodel or building your dream home? Let’s talk! Contact us to schedule your initial call with our team.

Studio Z receives 2021 AIA Huron Valley Honor Award

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 09:28:10 GMT

We are thrilled that our Modern Chef’s Kitchen project received an honor award from the American Institute of Architects Huron Valley Chapter! This is the fourth time we’ve received an AIA Huron Valley honor award for our work.

The existing home was a mid-century modern gem of a home designed by the well-known architect Robert Metcalf. The homeowners wished to essentially double the size of the kitchen and eating nook to provide more space for cooking and entertaining guests. Through our careful and innovative design solution, the home addition to fit seamlessly with the existing house on the interior and exterior, matching interior and exterior trim details, overhangs, and siding.

The judges comments were:

“The original Architect, Bob Metcalf, would be very pleased.”

“Such a small addition with such a huge visual and functional impact on the living environment.”

Watch this video to get the full design story of this award-winning project.

Seriously considering a remodel or building your dream home?

Let’s talk! Contact us to schedule your initial call with our team.

Design-Build vs. Architect?

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 09:37:12 GMT

You have a third option: The Studio Z Team Approach

Are you thinking about remodeling your house or designing a new custom home? You’ve likely researched multiple articles, heard opinions about where to start (and possibly horror stories), and questioned how and when to engage a builder or architect. There isn’t one correct answer. The best approach requires that you:

Understand your options and the associated cost vs. value
Find a team you can trust to represent your interests
Have clear and solutions-based communication between all team members

At Studio Z, we’ve worked with many clients who thought there were only two delivery options: design-bid-build and design-build, with the former dividing design and construction services and the latter combining the two into a “one-stop-shop.” There are pros and cons to each of these options, but here at Studio Z, we offer a third alternative: the Team Approach .

Understanding basic project delivery methods

Design-bid-build

In the design-bid-build process, the client hires an architect to design their home and create a thorough set of construction drawings to guide the builder. Once the drawing set is complete, the owner sends the bid documents to contractors to bid the project.

After the bids are returned, the owner works with the architect to determine which bid is the best. (The lowest bid might not be the best bid because that contractor may have left some important things out of their bid.) The owner would then negotiate and sign a contract with the construction company with the best bid.

Often the clients work with the architect (or the builder) to redesign or remove items that may have caused budget overages–or add items if the cost comes in under budget. The architect may or may not be hired at an additional fee to ensure that the project is built according to the drawing set.

The key element of this delivery method is that the designer and builder are hired separately, and their working relationship can be at-best a cross-check collaboration or, at worst, unpredictable.

Design-build

The design-build method is often characterized by heavy collaboration at the front end of the project between the architect, contractor, and owner. The contractor is seen as more of a partner in the project (and generally assumes more of the risk than with the traditional design-bid-build because there isn’t a complete drawing set to be followed).

Design-build firms often operate as a “one-stop-shop” for home design and construction. Many have both designers and builders on their team, working together. Other design-build relationships bring the selected architect and the selected builder together with the owner before the design process begins.

This integrated approach has advantages in that ideally everyone will be on the same page from the start and in constant communication. Doing so can possibly prevent surprise construction costs down the road. A disadvantage can be that the owner is effectively committing to a full team early in the process, which limits flexibility down the road–for example, with design-build, the owner gets one cost estimate from their pre-determined builder.

Granted, this can typically be reworked, but the owner does not receive comparative pricing. If the owner wants to obtain additional prices from outside contractors, they may be in for a surprise: the design-build firm likely owns the copyright to the drawings they produced, and it may be against the law to take those drawings to other contractors.

An alternative: The Studio Z “Team Approach”

The Team Approach: A hybrid delivery method

Studio Z Architecture can work with either project delivery method outlined above. However, we like to use the Team Approach because of the value and flexibility it provides our clients and their builders.

Like design-build, we involve the builder early in the project, however, the Team Approach offers greater flexibility in your choice of contractors.

To begin, Studio Z learns a lot about you, working through phases of the discovery process to create a home design that you love. We complete the schematic design phase (which is basically enough design to receive reliable estimates, but not a complete set of construction documents). Then, we bring in up to three contractors to review the design and offer you estimates. These contractors can be recommendations from Studio Z or those of your choosing.

What we like about this approach is that it enables you, the owner, to get to know the contractors to see which feels like the right personality fit. You will also get a better understanding of what is possible given your budget. Our clients appreciate knowing the numbers early on, while also feeling they have options.

Studio Z Architecture prefers the Team Approach for these reasons:

Unlike design-bid-build, there isn’t the potential “back to the drawing board” phase that requires revising detailed construction drawings—and extra time and often additional fees.
Unlike design-build, the owner has a choice of contractors (and cost proposals).
We can get to know owners in the early design process, and recommend builders that we feel will be a good fit.
The builders are at the table early in the process, but not before the owner has worked through his/her ideal vision with the architect.

When you’re ready to start your home remodel or custom home design, reach out to both architects and design-build firms. You can also contact us to see if we’re a good fit and what value we will bring to your project.

Do you have more questions about the home renovation or new home design process?

We’ve created a guide that will answer your questions and shed light on what to expect. Click here receive your copy of “What to expect during your design consultation.”

Let’s talk about your proposed project!

Contact us and schedule a 30 minute call to get your questions answered and discover what value Studio Z can provide your project.

How will COVID-19 affect home design?

Tue, 05 May 2020 09:51:34 GMT

Photo Credit: Emily Rose

In the first two months of working from home, I was already thinking about how the COVID-19 pandemic might change residential design. We know that home design evolved as our knowledge of infectious disease grew.

Bathrooms, especially, have changed over time. Our great-great-grandparents probably used outhouses or chamber pots. In the late 19th and early 20th century, when water and sewer infrastructure was installed in cities, people added bathrooms and kitchens to their homes.

At first, aesthetics and convenience were the most important considerations. Early bathrooms featured toilets, tubs, and sinks encased in wood. Later, as germ theory became accepted, cleanliness and hygiene were considered paramount , and people wanted easy-to-clean porcelain fixtures and tile walls and floors. We’d still feel comfortable using an early 20th-century porcelain bathroom because of its similarity to more modern bathrooms.

Kitchen designs also evolved. In the 18th century, kitchens were rooms with large fireplaces, over which women would cook in big pots. Water would be pumped from an outdoor well and brought in as needed. Coal- and wood-fired stoves were used mainly for heating until the early 19th century. In the early 20th century, when central heating became more prevalent, stoves became primarily cooking appliances. However, these stoves produced a lot of heat and made kitchens unbearably hot in the summer.

Gas stoves were invented in the 1920s, and the modern kitchen was born. Early kitchens included sinks with integral drainboards, usually on an exterior wall under a window, and a stove on an adjacent or opposite wall, separated by floor space. Food preparation took place at the sink or at a standalone Hoosier-type cabinet , which included storage and a work surface. Later, built-in kitchen cabinets became popular and ran between the stove, sink, and icebox. Cleanliness was also important, so people chose finishes that were easy to clean.

Many of the advances in kitchen and bath design came about because of concerns about cleanliness and health. Our knowledge of hygiene came as a result of infectious disease outbreaks, including tuberculosis, dysentery, and the 1918 flu pandemic.

So, how will home design be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?

Home offices. A lot of us are sheltering in place with children, and as a society, we now appreciate how hard daycare workers and teachers work to care for and educate our children. Even without kids, we are easily distracted. For those of us who have jobs that allow it, the safety, convenience, and cost-savings of working from home are attractive. Many people will want to continue doing so even after we can return to our offices. To that end, people will need separate home office space or a dedicated work area that can be closed off from the rest of the home during working hours.
More enclosed spaces. Home design has been trending towards more and more open floor plans. While I think people will still want kitchens that are open to dining areas and family rooms, I think many will reconsider those two-story foyers and family rooms that disseminate sound throughout the entire house. People will want to be able to have more private spaces with doors for members of the family to play games, read, watch TV, or sleep at the same time.
Bigger mudrooms. As far as we know, clothing is unlikely to spread COVID-19 , but front-line healthcare workers may want to be able to change clothes as they enter their homes. We are all encouraged to wash our masks after each use. To this end, having the washer and dryer in the mudroom is a good idea, although it’s nice if it’s not in the main traffic area so that someone can come and go while someone else does laundry. Of course, storage for shoes, boots, sporting equipment, purses, book bags, etc., is still essential.
En suite bathrooms. Newer homes typically have primary suites with connected bathrooms. People may want at least one other bedroom with a private bathroom in case a member of the family becomes sick and needs to be quarantined from the rest of the family.
Separate heating and cooling systems. We know that COVID-19 is primarily transmitted by respiratory droplets. We recently became aware that several diners in a restaurant in China became sick when one asymptomatic person with COVID-19 had lunch with their family. Although that person was seated across the room from the air conditioning unit, researchers believe that the disease was spread via the strong airflow from the air conditioner. For families with a member who is a front-line healthcare worker, someone who is immunocompromised, or someone who is exhibiting symptoms, a separate room with a ductless heating and cooling system might be a good idea.
Connection to the outdoors. People need air and light. Architects have been designing indoor spaces with a closer connection to the outdoors for years, but I think more and more people will want to have views, fresh air, and access to outdoor areas from inside their homes.
Dedicated paper product storage. An immediate effect of the pandemic was a shortage of some household items, especially paper products. People will want more space to store these essentials.
Bigger pantries. Shopping for food has become an ordeal, and rather than stopping at the grocery store several times a week, people are going less frequently and buying more at a time. Bulk shopping requires more storage space for food.
Grocery processing space. We now think about who handled our food and what microbes the packaging might contain. Perhaps people will want a bench or dedicated counter surface for setting bags of groceries and putting things away that can be quickly disinfected.
Technology. Touchless faucets and lights that can be controlled by voice commands are already popular. These technologies will become even more integrated and prevalent as prices come down, and new products become available. Automatic doors might also become more affordable for homes, especially for family entrances.
Power supply backup. My home’s power went out recently, just after we filled our fridge and freezers with perishables. Power was restored in a little more than 2 hours, but we still worried about the possibility of having to toss all that food. A backup generator or solar panels with battery storage would have alleviated that worry.

How will your home design need adapt to your pandemic and post-pandemic lifestyle? What thoughts do you have about how COVID-19 will change home design?

Please leave your ideas in the comments or contact us to talk about your home needs.

Four ways an architect or interior designer can help you before you buy a home

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 10:00:07 GMT

When a local Ann Arbor residential real estate agency asked Studio Z Architecture to write an article for its publication, the question was simple:

How can architects and interior designers help real estate agents sell homes?

If you’re in the market for a new home, these tips also explain why you might need an architect, in addition to your real estate agent, when evaluating your options and (ideally) before making an offer.

Click the image below to read the article in full.

Read Studio Z’s complete article featured in this Keller Williams Publication .

Four ways an architect and interior designer can help you sell homes

1. We can help your buyer envision a future renovation . Many people buy homes that they plan to improve. Maybe the floor plan is outdated & needs to be opened up, or maybe there's no master suite. Maybe the homeowner wants to reconfigure the entrance from the garage to provide a mud room, or the kitchen just isn't their taste. An architect can help your buyer understand whether their proposed renovations are feasible based on construction costs, the structural condition of the home, zoning restrictions, the buyer's timeframe, & other factors.

Often, we get called in after someone has purchased a home & must give them unexpected news-either their budget is too low for the project they plan to do, or it will take longer than they anticipated, or the lot is too small to permit an addition. At other times, we're offering good news to buyers who thought a simple renovation was outside their budget. It's helpful if we can be involved before your buyer makes an offer so that we can help them understand the process & cost of renovations.

2. We can help your buyer evaluate a fixer-upper . Architects understand structures. We can tell whether a house has good "bones" or not. If a home shows evidence of settling (such as cracked foundations or wavy floors), or if there's been water damage. we can help determine how much work will need to be done to repair it, or put your buyer in touch with someone who can. We can also help your buyer understand whether renovations make sense based on their budget & timeframe.

3. We can help your seller make the house presentable . Many homes on the market haven't been updated in a long time. For example, the exterior color scheme might be outdated, or the interior flooring was originally installed in the 1970s. If the seller wants to make a few simple updates before putting the home on the market, we can help with color & material selection s.

4. We can help your seller give buyers an idea of the possibil ities . If a house is out-of-date & the seller isn't willing or able to pay to renovate it, we can still help. We can provide sketches or edited images showing the front of the house without all the overgrown shrubbery or with new shutters & a new color scheme. Or we can produce a rendering of the kitchen to show what it might look like with new cabinets, countertops. & flooring. We can even provide a mood board with actual materials that you can place in the house so that people can get excited about the possibilities as they tour the home.

How can we help you? Contact Studio Z to start the conversation!

How to select the right contractor: Your architect can help

Sun, 07 Jul 2019 10:04:28 GMT

Photo Credit: Emily Rose

Choosing a contractor for a major renovation project can evoke a wide range of reactions in clients, ranging from confident optimism to fear and loathing. Commonly, the experience is a changing mixture of excitement and uncertainty; not surprising considering the choice represents a substantial commitment of both resources and trust. Yet most clients approach the decision with minimal to no previous experience or knowledge to direct their choice.

Studio Z is ready to provide that direction: our over 20 years of experience in residential remodeling and custom home projects in Southeastern Michigan enables us to guide clients in selecting the contractor best suited to their project, taking into consideration such pivotal factors as workmanship, value, reliability, and accountability. Often this comes down to asking specific questions formulated to provide information most relevant to the client’s expectations.

Because Studio Z is already engaged in the design of the project as well as determining its scope and budget, we can assist not only in understanding the questions required of a potential contractor but as importantly, we can help clients interpret the corresponding responses.

There are countless articles available online and in print that list common-sense questions to ask a potential contractor, for example:

Does the contractor specialize in residential construction?
Do they have a lot of experience remodeling existing homes? Or in building custom homes?
Have they done projects like yours?
How long have they been in business?
Will they provide references and/or a list of projects to drive by? Do they have photos of completed projects on their website?
Will the payment be a lump sum for the entire project or do they use a “cost plus” method?
How often will payments be due?
How will the contractor deal with unforeseen changes and contingencies that arise?
Will they provide a schedule for construction, including key dates when you will need to have specific things done—such as emptying your kitchen cabinets—so they can keep working?
Is the contractor a member of a professional organization, such as the Homebuilders Association or the National Association of the Remodeling Industry?

No one would argue that these are all questions to be asked in advance of any agreement. But suppose the contractor answers yes to specializing in residential construction. How do you decide the validity of that assertion?

Suppose they tell you they have been in business for 25 years: do you have any basis for judging the reputation established during that period? If you drive by and examine a completed project which they provide you an address for, would you be able to recognize the level of craftsmanship, or perhaps, a subtle lack of attention to critical details?

This is where an experienced and knowledgeable advocate for your project should be available to provide essential follow-up questions and make the discerning observations necessary. Studio Z’s clients draw on such knowledge and experience, allowing them to begin their project knowing that the contractor selection was given the care and diligence its importance demands.

Thinking of building your dream home or remodeling your existing home and have more questions about the process? We’ve created a guide that will answer your questions and shed light on what to expect. Complete the form below to receive your copy of “What to Expect During Your Design Consultation”.

What to Expect During Your Design Consultation

Receive a copy of Studio Z’s “What to Expect During Your Design Consultation” guide. Simply provide your name and email and this helpful document will be available for download!

Ready to get started? Contact us to schedule your initial consultation call with Studio Z!

Our Work Will Be On HGTV This Fall!

Sat, 23 Jul 2016 10:08:30 GMT

The word is out! I am excited to share the news that Studio Z Architecture is the architect for ‪ HGTVUrbanOasis‬ 2016 . From day one, the project has been a rewarding and successful collaboration with the entire ‪#‎HGTV‬ team and Maven Development. Stay tuned for more details on the project in the near future!‬

Studio Z on HGTV!

Sun, 10 Apr 2016 10:11:42 GMT

Studio Z Architecture’s work will be on HGTV tomorrow.

We’re celebrating our part in the recent renovation of an Ann Arbor home which will be featured on HGTV’s Urban Oasis tomorrow!

The one-hour Urban Oasis special will air tomorrow (Wednesday, October 5) at 11:00 PM eastern time on HGTV.

Awarded! Our light-filled kitchen design takes the prize

Fri, 08 Apr 2016 10:14:54 GMT

Photo credit: David Franklin, Wrayward

One of our projects recently received a grand prize award from VELUX America LLC in a recent VELUX® Why Skylights Photo Contest for creative use of VELUX skylights! You can read all about the project here. The judges liked the fact that we used two skylights in addition to four windows to provide a light-filled space for my client, a local food writer, who takes photos of her tasty creations in the space.

We love skylights. They offer a way to add daylight and ventilation to a space.

View Studio Z "Why Skylights" video by Velux.

How do people survive a major remodeling project?

Tue, 17 Mar 2015 10:25:26 GMT

My client’s temporary kitchen includes cabinets and a countertop from their original kitchen, their old fridge, a hotplate, and a microwave.

Their design goals meant that almost every square inch of the first floor of their home would be torn up. The only room that would be left untouched was their living room.

Luckily my clients were happy with the second floor of their home, which contains three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, so other than a change to a bedroom window to accommodate the roof over the addition and some new insulation, the upstairs would be mostly left alone.

Many clients choose to move out during the construction of such a major addition/renovation project. Moving out often means that the project can progress more quickly because the contractor doesn’t have to clean up so carefully at the end of each workday.

Whether to move out during construction is often a difficult decision, though, because most people decide to renovate their existing home rather than move to a new home because they love their existing location or neighborhood. Also, remodeling is so expensive that it’s hard to find the additional thousands of dollars that it might cost to rent a place to live on a short-term basis while the contractors do their work, plus the funds to move their furniture and other essentials back and forth.

On my recent site visit, I was interested to see how my client’s family had adapted to living in one room:

I recently visited with a client whose home is under construction. She and her husband and their two young daughters had lived in their home for about 10 years before they contacted me a year ago to begin planning a major renovation to their first floor.

They wanted to build an addition to house a new, larger kitchen and eating area and to expand their existing family room by a few feet. The existing kitchen and laundry/mudroom would be used to create a new mudroom, a bathroom with large shower, and a dedicated laundry room.

Finally, they wanted to change their existing formal dining room into a first floor bedroom in case an ailing parent needed to move in with them.

Opposite the temporary kitchen, my clients have a slow cooker that they use frequently.

The family’s couch faces the fireplace. The children’s craft table is on the right, in front of the sealed archway to the family room.

The family eats their meals at the round dining table. The room is accessed via the zipper door on the right side of this photo.

The Studio Z Blog - Studio Z Architecture

Top home remodeling mistake to avoid: late changes that derail your budget

Highlights

﻿

When you change your mind matters more than what you change

Why detailed planning protects your budget

When changes still happen

How one late decision can ripple through a project

Ready to start your remodel with confidence?

The types of changes that cost the most

Why people change their minds (and why that's normal)

How we help clients make confident decisions earlier

Here's what every homeowner should know before the first wall comes down.

Frequently asked questions about late remodeling changes

Contractor red flags: Five signs you hired a bad contractor

Signs of a bad contractor (and how to avoid one)

Five red flags of a bad contractor

﻿ 1. Poor communication

﻿ 4. Evasive about permits

How an architect protects you

Green flags: what good contractors do

The biggest mistake homeowners make

﻿ 2. Disrespectful behavior

﻿ 3. Badmouthing architects or other pros

﻿ 5. Shady payment practices

Risky shortcuts and “Chuck in a truck” contractors

Your blueprint for hiring the right contractor

What to ask a contractor before hiring

FAQ: Contractor red flags

Craftsman-style home renovation tips: restore charm, add function

Defining the Craftsman style

2. Key materials and finishes

3. Sustainability and energy efficiency

A Craftsman home that fits the way you live

Craftsman-style homes: restoring character, enhancing function

What to consider before renovating your Craftsman home

1. Balancing aesthetics with your lifestyle needs

Balancing modern needs with historic integrity

Common renovation mistakes to avoid

FAQ: About Craftsman homes

Five interior design trends that truly work — and three to rethink

Five home design trends that truly work

1. Laundry room where you need it

Three tricky design trends to rethink

How to evaluate interior design trends

Designing a home that fits you

Most requested home interior design trends

(and why you might want them, too)

2. Pantries with purpose

3. Designing to age in place

4. Minimalist living with personality

5. A return to color

FAQ: Most requested home design trends

Blending old and new architecture

How to match styles for a home remodel that feels seamless

Techniques for seamless integration of the new with the old

1. Study and mirror the original design

2. Balance between old and new

3. Material and color selection

Common mistakes homeowners make

1. Ignoring the details

2. Disproportionate elements

3. Lack of architectural guidance

The role of an architect in matching style

Real-world examples from Studio Z

Ann Arbor Craftsman Renovation

Wright-Inspired Ranch

The Big 10 House

Ann Arbor Hills Remodel

When is it okay to modernize?

What works:

What doesn’t:

Remodels that respect the past and embrace the future

Why blending architecture styles matters

FAQ: Blending Old and New in Home Remodels

Designing the in-between: Indoor-outdoor living for northern climates

What defines an indoor-outdoor space?

What’s the difference between a sunroom and a three-season room?

Why indoor-outdoor living is essential in northern climates

When is the best time to start a project like this in Michigan?

1. Poor communication

4. Evasive about permits

2. Disrespectful behavior

3. Badmouthing architects or other pros

5. Shady payment practices