Green interiors, 

      sustainable materials 

spring remodeling report

In the time when less is more and economy is dipping people are living in their homes longer. They seem to be more interested in making their homes a place of beauty and simplicity. The current market situation changed many homeowners’ financial situation, but in many cases their value as well.




 I noticed the growing interest in home comfort and a simpler lifestyle has a major impact on the home design field, particularly the kitchen and master bath area. The master bath has become a living space where people 
spend a lot of time.

When people come home from work, they can’t wait to get into their bathrooms. More and more people looking for a bath that is simple, uncluttered and restful, with functional and comfort. This trend seems to be true regardless of the bath’s or kitchen’s size. Building material influence, time and energy concerns are also impacting bath design. 

“Many clients I have is ripping out the old material, tubs and kitchen cabinets and getting rid of them” according to Chester architect and LEED certified professional. A few years ago I was replacing them with sculptural tubs, but now they don’t want any tub at all. People don’t want or don’t have a time for long bath, and they are watching water, energy and healthier interiors. 

Economy Luxury bathrooms are product driven spaces. In designing baths or kitchens – the more you add, they more expensive they become. However we have many good products on market for lower price and good quality. “It’s an exciting time” many of my clients says .


Years ago, it was a straggle to create some luxurious because the price was too high. But now I see products all across the board that delivers luxury at affordable prices. Clients don’t have to go with the most expensive product to remain on trend and have a beautiful space. There are a lot of options that look terrific. 

How to choose a design professional?

How to choose a design professional?

The  importance of experience and the ability to understand of design language. References and reputation will be useful to your selection, however. 

World of mouth and referrals from others, if possible, visit sites. Also make sure certain that you are comfortable with fee arrangements and the services to be provided. 

Some Architects charge by the hour; others charge a percentage up to 10-15% of the construction costs including Architectural Design and Engineering.

While design requirements vary depending on complexity of the home, stinting on design is likely penny wise but dollar foolish. The point of building yourself is to get what you want in livability and location. A good Architect should help ensure that your house will really be your home, the realization of your dreams.

Questions to Ask Before Acquiring a Building or Structure Addition

What follows is a list of key questions you should have answers to before you purchase a building or start any job on your existing. 

Not all apply to every owner-builder’s situation, but check off those that may be relevant to your own particular case and get the answer.

-What are the zoning issues that may affect construction? Is a variance required?

-Are there any court action pending, stop orders or building officials’ orders?

-Are there any deed restrictions that may affect construction? If yes, can they be modified?

-Are there any environmental rules that may affect this property or restrict construction? Will 

environmental impact studies have to be filed?

- Will the home improvements you plan to provide attract buyers in this neighborhood willing to pay at least what you plan to invest in construction?

- Does site require unusually costly approach for building foundation (if any) or other elements?

-Does the site drain well?

-Has the lot been surveyed?

-Are there any impediments to obtaining financing? Will the lot provide adequate equity for obtaining a construction loan?

Architect 101 cont. working with Design Pros.

Working with Design Pros. The role of the architect and other Design professionals in developing successful plans. An architect is usually the primary design professional on a custom home project. But you may decide to work with other specialists in planning your home or any interior /exterior.   Kitchen and bath design can be very useful; you may also choose to work with an interior designer.  In new construction an architect can be  especially useful in transforming the bare  bones of the house into warm, livable personal statement. To often a new home’s setting is neglected. Landscape architects specialize in designing the site surrounding a home. Good design takes advantage of the possibilities that the site offers to achieve the effects you desire: formal display, privacy, and simplicity of upkeep, outdoor living, or whatever. If your site contains plant materials you wish to preserve, particularly trees, it might be a good idea to consult with a landscape architect or arborist before construction begins. New Kitchen's cooking area Recently full renovated Kitchen with partial first floor  addition/extension. Full Design + Build services provided. Oak Park IL                                                         Services provided: Design,Construction, Project coordination between trades, and project close out. Oak Park, IL Phone:708-488-1755, Fax: 708-358-0111  email: info@charchitect.com,  www.charchitect.com

architect101: There is no mystery to planning, financing,schedul...

architect101: There is no mystery to planning, financing,schedul...: There is no mystery to planning, financing, scheduling, negotiating or managing construction- just preparation and diligence. Workin...

There is no mystery to planning, financing, scheduling, negotiating or managing construction- just preparation and diligence.

Working with Design Pros

Most people who plan to build a new home or renovate existing have some idea of what they want. Your ideas may range from a few vague desires to a very specific wish list.  What type of design professionals should you consult? Most people start with a licensed architect.

What Professionals Do?

The overall goal in working with a design professional should be to develop a plan that serves your needs and tastes. The designer must be able to produce detailed drawings that satisfy local building authorities, whose permission is needed to start construction and obtain a certificate of occupancy.

Most architects say they start by talking to clients to find out not only what they want but also they live. In addition to listening to your ideas about room layouts, expect your architect to ask questions about who you are your tastes and your lifestyle.

Who’s who in Home building?

BUILDER OF GENERAL CONTRACTOR

The buck stops with him or her in construction projects. The GC secures bids for all work and materials: hires, coordinate and oversees subcontractors, files for permits and arranges for inspections, and generally makes the final decisions in all construction-related matters.

BUILDING INSPECTOR

One or more local officials who oversees and regulate every phase of residential construction.

CONSTRUCTION MANAGER

The general contractor’s right hand man. Owner-builders should consider hiring a qualified manager to help plan organize.

OWNER BUILDER

That’s you. An individual or family who finances and manages a home building project with the intention of retaining ownership and residing in the home after completion.

SUBCONTRACTOR

A specialist who undertakes responsibility for one phase or trade within the project and reports to the general contractor. In a typical home building project subcontractors generally include: an excavation contractor who digs foundations and grades the site, masonry contractor who handles all concrete, block, brickwork and paving, a framing contractor, a roofing contractor, a heating, a plumbing, an electrical , drywall installers, finish carpenters.

As a full Design + Build services we apply advanced Design and Construction practices and progressive management techniques to meet the current and future demands of our customers. Our Customers are who are seeking Sustainable Design, Construction, Renovation, Remodeling and Project Management as an integral part of their overall success. In essence, we provide quality results in Green Design and Commercial Development for our Customers.

CH +  architecture & development