Ideas for Repurposing your Outbuilding

 

Your shed or barn has multiple uses you may not be making the most of.  More and more people are using these spaces to convert to another purpose other than what was intended, or even multiple uses.

Here are just a few ideas what your current outbuilding can become:

A shed or barn can be transformed into a “man” space (sometimes referred to as mancaves).   Whether you outfit your building with tools, an area to relax with TV (providing electric is in the building) is up to you.  These spaces are becoming more common with longer work weeks; busier people need time to just chill. 

A paint room or craft room for that special someone who enjoys time to themselves to appreciate their hobby.  This could be any hobby, not just painting.  

A pet quarters for either part of your structure or all; your pooch will thank you!

A party room (goes great with your pool) can be converted from a shed.  A bar, seating and 

decorations will put your guests in a festive spirit.  Perfect for your next party or family get together.

A pool room can also be a great asset for your conversion.  This space can have a bathroom or just a place your guests can change privately and not track water into your house.  This is a great addition for the family that has frequent pool guests.

Your building can also be transformed into a guest house for visitors.  This all depends on electric, water and sewage to your structure—unless you don’t mind your guests sharing your homes kitchen and bathroom with your guest.

Consider adding a garage to your structure.  If you have a garage already, you may want to consider turning unused garage space into your new living quarters or an apartment space for someone else; maybe to rent out.  The possibilities are endless.  If you don’t have an outbuilding, consider building a new one.  These spaces can be great for multi-purposes such as the ideas above and create an income stream if a property is rented.

Don’t have an outbuilding?  Klein Developments – Construction would be happy to help you construct the perfect structure you need for your property.  

 

Give us a call at 314-322-7896 to schedule your consultation.

5 Reasons DIY may not be meant for you

DIY is a great way to save some money if you are handy.  Doing carpentry, the wrong way, can cost you money and time; you may even find yourself hiring someone to fix your work.

The following are a few reasons you may need to rethink DIY and save it for the professionals.

 

1)       Time.  We all wish we had more of it.  The truth is we don’t.  If you have a job or family, you probably have less time to do your DIY project than you think.  Be realistic about how much time you can devote to your home project.  If you want your construction project done in a time frame and you are not known for being ‘timely’ it’s likely your project may not be either.  Procrastination is very likely in your home improvement DIY if it is in your life.

2)      Being Realistic.  Sometimes you have to admit when your over your head.  There are professionals who do nothing all day but you’re DIY project.  They specialize in what you want to accomplish.  These professionals can finish your project or better yet, start and finish your project the way you want it done; half done is not an option you or what your family probably wants.

3)      Getting in over your head.  You may be a great tiler (or know someone who is) but when it comes to electrical, you have no clue.  Construction DIY projects can not only can this be dangerous for you, but also be for your family and potentially your house.  Seeking a professional may not only save time but help you save future headaches and DIY disasters.  

4)      Being Indecisive.  Having a plan for your DIY or any project is essential.   A time frame and a budget are important.  If you don’t know what to do or how much to spend you probably shouldn’t consider any construction project and leave it to the professionals.

5)      Not good with Power Tools.  Most, if not all, remodel projects require skill with a power tool you may not be familiar with.   Learning while you go may not be an option.  You also want your project to ‘look’ professional even if it was not done by a professional; these tools are not for everyone.

Let’s face it we are not all handy.  Knowing this before getting in over your head may save you time, money and a lot of frustration. Hiring a professional contractor to get the job done right might be better for you and your family.

5 Good Ideas to Plan Your New Home

If you’re like most people building a new home, you’ve already looked at many house plans or have an idea of how you want your custom home built.  Once you have decided on building your own home, ask your Realtor or general contractor to look around for a house you may want.  In person, a home can look very different.  Here are some general tips when planning your new home:

   

1)     Try to get a Lot that is in a desirable area – Why?  You either want to try to get a return on your investment (eventually) or you want a desirable school, hospital, location or all of these.

2)     Consult your neighbors and realtor; they may have good information on your location.  For example, Information provided in a condo or house situation could help you find out if there could be a HOA (Home Owners Association) increase proposed. 

3)     Try to Stick to the design aesthetic of the neighborhood; the HOA may require this.  If you plan to stick out like a sore thumb, be prepared for any future consequences.   One of these aspects may include difficulty in selling your new home with your unique qualities.

4)     Download a good application to plan your rooms.  These can be great on tablets, allowing you to put your furniture where you want it before any heavy lifting is involved or especially if you plan on doing some decorating yourself.

5)     Find inspiration online.  There are more places to get ideas for your house online than ever before.   Once you find your inspiration, ask your home builder or architect they can most likely give you a similar if not exact look of the home you find online.

Following this advice may just help you build the perfect new home or business you always wanted.  Always know what budget you have in mind, explain this to your general contractor or architect.   It doesn’t hurt to plan ahead or allow for some overages on your budget.  Your general contractor may offer design services which can really help both on your exterior and interior building.