Give Your Building Basics The “Wow Factor”
STORY EUGENIA TRIANDOS & KORINA KHAMIS
We have learned that a modern backdrop can work for even the most traditional decors if selected properly. A beautiful eclectic look can be achieved by mixing modern and traditional through the right balance.
What’s our trick? Go simple, go bright and ask the right questions. Making changes to the standard finishes is a great way of making your unit unique.
Is the finishing selection flexible on your new build home?
A lot of new home buyers will follow the buildings suggestions regardless if making modifications is an option. This may be because new homeowners can feel overwhelmed with all of the decisions that need to be made when purchasing new. It may also be because they just don’t know any better. You would be surprised by how much you can actually change if you simply ask for it. Some builders have insane surcharges for extras and upgrades. Others will only charge you whatever the difference in price is between the item you selected and what was included. Either way, it’s nice for you to know your options and asking the right questions will get you the answers you need to make the decision.
Some questions can be:
Are the tile, countertop and plumbing options presented the only options? Or can we shop in store at a specific supplier and select different options?
What are the cabinet finish options?
What are the pros and cons of each available finish?
Will I be presented with cabinetry design drawings to adjust and approve?
Will mirrors be included in the bathrooms and if so, what do they look like? We often opt to omit the builder’s mirrors and just buy our own. It’s good to tell them this in advance since they usually glue them to the wall and removing it can be quite messy.
Are there any wall sconces? If so, what height will they be mounted at? Heights vary based on the fixtures which most people only purchase after they move in. This is something worth shopping before the electrical for your unit is completed.
Is heated flooring an option?
What kind of recessed lighting will be installed? Will It be a warm light or cool light? We normally like to specify 3000k slim fits with a white frame.
If you’re thinking of motorized window coverings, can the electrical be ran in advance by the builders?
How can I make my modern new build feel warm?
When in doubt, opt for white! White is timeless, fresh, and creates the perfect backdrop for most aesthetics. The good news is that every developer will have some white options! The biggest mistake is going bold with fixed finishes that you aren’t crazy about and will later regret.
A white cabinet works in both a classic setting and a modern one. It looks good on flat panel doors and on shaker profiles. It can be dressed up with decorative hardware or can blend in with concealed cabinet pulls. White also works for countertops and backsplashes.
Be open to different ideas. Going in with a fixed idea of what you want may get frustrating once you see your builders options. We sometimes have to work with what we have and that might mean changing your mind on one element to find another that works with it. For example, you might be dead set on a specific type of backsplash but can’t find a counter option available that works with it. It may just be easier to opt for a different backsplash in this case.
When it’s all done, if you opt for clean and simple on your fixed finishes, you can start having fun with your décor. A simple, bright white kitchen can be the perfect backdrop to an edgy set of stools or a showstopper pendant light over the island – and those are easier to change! Custom window coverings and artwork and graphic wallpaper also add a lot to what would otherwise be a cookie-cutter space
At Hibou, we’ve developed a system that includes detailed checklists to review with the contractor at key points throughout the renovation, to ensure nothing slips through the cracks. We’ve perfected this internal process for our firm, and have decided to share it with renovators to save them from making the same mistakes that we’ve encountered over the years. We recently launched an online webinar to teach homeowners and renovation professionals how to take control of their renovation and plan it successfully.
TIP: If you are managing any renovation yourself, make sure to always order product well in advance and inspect it upon receipt. The most tedious project delays happen when you can’t move forward because your trades are waiting on a backorders or the replacement of a defective product.
Designers Eugenia Triandos and Korina Khamis, are co-founders of Hibou Design & Co. With well over a decade of collective experience, this Montreal- based multi-disciplinary design firm has become known for creating stylish and well-curated interiors. The firm provides complete bespoke residential design services throughout Canada & North America.
Visit hiboudesignco.com for more information.