Day 7: Dust Motes

The most dramatic changes have happened and now the mechanicals, hidden within the walls, like HVAC, electrical and plumbing are taking place. 

There are a number of different ways to look at how this process unwinds. So much effort is put into working out 'ideas', intangible concepts that are decided upon sight unseen AND promised to be paid for. Factor in the abundance of information, expertise and choices available these days, it's a wonder it all gets sorted out. A contract is signed and a deposit is collected to seal the deal. The start day is inked in on the calendar. It's a leap of faith for everyone involved and when things come together it is thrilling.

Before / after garage addition 2009.

The house started out as a cottage, in the 1920s, which is what attracted us to it in the first place. A Craftsman style base, with a Cape Cod touch felt inviting and who could pass up the view, or the neighbors, who have turned out to be gems??? Our initial concept was worked out with an architect, Dave Maddux, at Arcus group, during planning for the first addition a few years ago. Trevor Miller, at Brady 3, helped tweak it as the project began and challenges/opportunities arose. This is a before and after shot of our house from the Brady 3 web site. We get many wonderful comments from passers-by, neighbors  and visitors. It is a charming home.

Dust tracks and sun motes.

When it

came down to functionality inside the house, it was apparent we were not finished. Plans to change the kitchen/dining room were put into motion. This has been a loooooong process, before we even got to signing a contract. It is a huge investment in every way possible, especially financially. 

There's also that no mans land between contractors expertise and homeowners ideals. This is our 5th time at this kind of rodeo and we are better prepared for the process, but... it is challenging. In the best case scenarios, it's a fluid relationship between all involved. Knowing our penchant to be inspired by an ever changing landscape, we chose a contractor that is willing to be a part of that fluidity AND hires sub-contractors that are as well. 

As we are now almost half way through the process, it is about managing the disruption on a daily basis as I work from home. But I also get to see the progress as it is happening, and make changes, ask questions, get schooled on best practices in construction. The project continues to grow, more lights, wider openings, bigger purse. So the process goes. We may be the clients from h--- after work, but while working with us, the positive attitude and atmosphere from Brady 3 goes a long way in making the process easier to take. Plus they do floors.