How Renovations Can Transform the South Shore House You Have Into the Home You Want
Staying put may be the wave of the future for the American homeowner. That’s the position of Duo Dickenson, architect and author. In his latest book, Staying Put, Dickenson outlines the many reasons people are choosing to make the most of the homes they have rather than continually upgrading to new homes.
The housing bubble has a lot to do with it. There are more than a few South Shore homeowners who have found themselves underwater, owing more on their home than their homes are worth. There have been economic changes as well: while homeowners used to easily be able to ‘trade up’ homes, it’s gotten harder and harder to finance this practice now. This can lead to a feeling of being trapped – or, as Dickenson advocates, homeowners can plan renovations and remodels that transform the houses they have into the homes they want.
Does this situation sound familiar to you? Are you facing spending the next thirty years in a house you hate? Don’t despair, Dickenson says. You can change your house to fit your needs.
South Shore Home Renovation: The Answer
Changing your home to fit your family’s needs means making changes. In some instances, these changes are dramatic: room additions, second story additions, knocking out walls and adding new entranceways. Other times, the changes are smaller and more subtle – but still pay off tremendous dividends of joy for the homeowner.
Taking control of the home, and transforming it into the space that serves you and your family is an act of empowerment, Dickenson says. The floor plans that many local homes feature are based on floor plans from the early 18th century – when family life was very different than it is now.
For example, look at the living room. Many families don’t use their living rooms at all; they’re largely empty, wasted space. Yet these same families complain they don’t have enough storage, room for family activities, or entertainment areas. Being willing to be bold and move past familiar floor plans into what works best for your family is a sign that you’re into your home for the long haul. This is one of the most exciting home renovation trends we’ve seen, and we’re happy for the positive changes that this type of home remodel will mean for our friends and neighbors.
Moving Forward While Staying Put: Planning Your South Shore Home Remodel
Transforming the house you have into the home you want doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Key to the process is finding home builders and renovation specialists who are committed to helping you realize the maximum value from every remodeling dollar you spend. Hire a South Shore building contractor who understands your vision and your budget. You want to work with someone who has the skills and expertise to get the job done right the first time!
Dickenson has many thoughts on what goes into smart home design. The first step is being willing to make changes and move beyond what you’re used to in order to achieve what you really want and what really works for your family. That’s the heart of smart home renovations – and smart living!
