Living Comfortably Through Home Renovation — Benson Homes

Have you finally decided to embark on the home renovation you’ve been dreaming up for so long? Moving forward with renovation plans can be such an exciting time, but can also bring some stress along with it as you face the inevitable “controlled chaos” that construction brings into your home - especially if you’re planning on still living in it during your renovation. In fact, many of our clients cite the inevitable discomfort of construction as one of the main reasons they put off their dream renovations before finally committing. 

3D rendering design of Norfolk, VA kitchen by Benson Homes.

Thankfully, we have a lot of experience in that arena. At Benson Homes, we're not just about construction; we're about helping your family have a peaceful experience, even amidst the whirlwind of renovation. With over three decades spent honing our craft, we've mastered the art of blending comfort with chaos for homeowners in the midst of renovation, and have a few tricks up our sleeves to make the process go smoother for all involved. Today we’re here to share some of the renovation wisdom we’ve picked up along the way as we share the “secret sauce” to not just surviving but thriving during your home's remodeling journey. 

1. Anticipate and Prepare for the Construction Phase 

Before the hammer meets the nail, it’s important to take a step back and strategize. Our initial consultation isn't just about blueprints and budgets; it's about preparing you and your household for the adventure ahead. Expectations set? Check. Game plan in motion? Double-check. We have found that setting expectations upfront helps to minimize surprises and ensures that everyone is on the same page before construction begins. During our initial consultation with clients, we create a game plan so we can turn your vision into reality with as few disruptions to your life's rhythm as possible. 

Flat lay of materials used in Norfolk, VA kitchen renovation by Benson Homes.

2. Create a Comfortable Living Environment Amidst the “Storm”

Hoping that somehow you will still have a peaceful retreat amidst the construction chaos? We've got you covered. We make living through a renovation more manageable for our clients by creating as comfortable a living environment as possible during the construction phase. A few tried and true things we do to achieve this are:

• Sectioning off rooms with magnetic doors to minimize dust and noise.

• Setting up a temporary kitchenette so that you can still prepare meals.

• Creating designated entrances and walkways for our workers to provide you with privacy and minimize disruptions to your daily routine.

No renovation is going to be completely disruption-free, but we do our best to protect your peace and keep your household running despite the construction.

We set up a temporary hot water heater and kitchenette for our client during her kitchen renovation.

3. Prioritize Effective Communication and Coordination 

Communication isn't just a buzzword; it's our lifeline during every renovation project. We always assign a dedicated project manager to oversee your project from start to finish. Your project manager isn't just a title; they are your bridge to clarity and peace of mind during your renovation. You can expect regular updates, a listening ear, and solutions tailored to your evolving needs. Our primary goal is to keep you informed and involved in the process every step of the way.

4. Maintain Safety and Security At All Times

Safety isn't negotiable; it's our top priority on any construction site. During your renovation, our team implements various safety measures to protect you, your home, and your family, including: 

• Ensuring that construction areas are properly secured to prevent accidents.

• Minimizing hazards such as exposed wiring or sharp objects.

• Securing the property and your belongings to prevent theft or damage.

5. Remain Flexible and Adaptable

Life can be unpredictable, and home renovations are no exception!  While we do our best to stick to the timeline, we understand that unexpected challenges can arise during any renovation. Our team has learned to embrace the unexpected as we pivot, adapt, and conquer hurdles together. Our commitment? Turning setbacks into stepping stones, ensuring your dream home remains within reach, no matter the detours. If changes need to be made to the plan, we'll work with you in real time to find solutions that meet your needs and budget.

Before and after of a full kitchen renovation by Benson Homes in Norfolk, VA.

Navigating your home renovation isn't just about survival - it's about controlling the chaos, minimizing the stress, and emerging with the home of your dreams. With the right planning, communication, and support from a trusted contractor like Benson Homes, you can navigate the process with ease. If you're considering a home renovation project in Coastal Virginia or the greater Hampton Roads area, we're ready to help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation!

If you want to learn more about the kitchen renovation featured in this article, you can view the project spotlight here.

What To Expect In Your Design Review Meeting

You have reached the part of the remodeling journey where you get to see your remodeling vision brought to life. This is an exciting time for you and for us! After spending time getting to know you and your family, understanding your functional needs, and your aesthetic preferences, we are ready to present your custom project plans at the Design Review meeting. It’s time for the grand reveal!

During the meeting, we will present you with floor plans, elevations and 3D renderings of your project. Our photo-realistic 3D renderings allow you to visualize your new space with the layout and finishes selected. We will walk you through these renderings, the scope of your remodel, point out architectural details, and answer any questions you may have.

 Here are some questions we’ll make sure to discuss during your meeting 

1.   Does the design resolve the functional challenges of your previous floor plan? We consider everything from traffic flow and storage, to appliance placement and lighting.

2.   Is it reflective of your personal style? You should love the selections and how they fit in with the rest of your home.

3.   Are your must-haves incorporated? If you requested specific materials, architectural details, window placements, etc. we want to make sure they are reflected in the plan.

4.   What is the project time frame? Construction start and completion dates are discussed.

5.   What are the next steps? We will outline what the next steps are and answer any and all questions you may have!

Now that your Design Review is complete, it’s time to bring your dream space to life through construction. We are excited to get started!