A stylish, period-conscious update in LA brings grandma’s house into the 21st century

• Homeowner: Leigh posted her home remodel on Sweeten
• Where: Mid City neighborhood in Los Angeles
• Primary renovation: The kitchen and surrounding rooms got a redo—with a preservationist-inspired touch
• With: Sweeten general contractor
• Homeowner’s quote: “It was important to me to work with a contracting team that had experience with older homes and appreciated the history here.”

Written in partnership with homeowner Leigh. “After” photos by Jill Weller.

A house full of family memories

I moved into my home several years ago, after inheriting it from my dad. The house was originally purchased by my grandmother, who raised her two boys here. Later, I grew up in it. We celebrated the house’s centennial last year. It’s been in my family for three generations.

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Located in Mid City, Los Angeles, the house is 3,200 square feet. It has a Tudor-inspired design and it sits on a wide, quiet tree-lined street. I wanted to honor the traditional elements and the memories there while bringing in my style to make it my own.

Contractor disappearances—and a solution

My name is Leigh Lehman and I work as a communications director. In the years prior to listing my project on Sweeten, I’d met with a number of other contractors. It was important to me to work with a contracting team that had experience with older homes and appreciated the history here. After our conversations, every contractor made promises to deliver on varying tasks or iterations of the project. But then they just never returned. I had become increasingly frustrated but didn’t want to give up.

Sweeten gave me the peace of mind I was missing in dealing with contractors. The fact that the platform had vetted the GCs I interviewed, and that there was accountability through the dashboard, helped alleviate the angst I’d been holding for a while.

Nostalgia and personal style meet

Approaching the project, I knew I wanted to remain true to the house’s bones, which were structurally sound. I wanted the home to improve functionally and to align with how I lived. But I didn’t want to lose the home’s character.

Specifically, I knew I needed to gut renovate the kitchen and laundry room. The dining area and other interior spaces just needed a cosmetic refresh. Other parts of the scope included refinishing floors, repainting the walls, replacing windows, and updating the electrical work.

Before starting on the kitchen, I did a lot of research on what kitchens in the 1920s in Los Angeles looked like. I wanted the space to feel updated and fresh but in line with the style of that time when the house was built. For example, the tile floor is beautifully colored. Design-forward floors were common in kitchens during that time. The dark counters and beadboard-style cabinets were also design elements from ‘20s kitchens.

I worked with my Sweeten contractor and her team to design the nostalgic details I wanted. The selection and use of tile in the renovation was our idea for a fresh take on period tile patterns. We also collaborated on the custom cabinets, from the layout to the clean look of the beadboard.

A modern convenience for the kitchen

One aspect I knew I wanted to update: the dishwasher. Spending so much time at my home during the pandemic, I had washed a lot of dishes. I love to cook and I looked forward to hosting dinners. So aside from the aesthetics of a refreshed kitchen, the idea of installing a dishwasher for the first time to help with clean-up was a driver for the renovation. I was looking forward to spending more time doing things I enjoyed. 

The layers were tedious, I’ll admit! As anyone can imagine, a 100-year-old home has had a few touch-ups over time. So whether paint or wallpaper, the work to get under those layers and back to the base definitely took some extra elbow grease.

Nostalgia and a very big sink

In the laundry room, the big sink was original to the house. I wanted to keep it, but it needed attention. An average sink faucet spread is 13 inches—but this one is 18” wide. My Sweeten contractor recommended parts vendors who allowed me to restore the beauty of the sink on my timeline and within my budget. I love how it turned out.

"Sweeten gave me the peace of mind I was missing in dealing with contractors."

All eyes on the details—and budget

The greatest worry I had was about exactly that—creating my budget and sticking to it. I didn’t want to end up with unexpected costs. My Sweeten contractor and her team were great professionals to work with; they laid everything out upfront and we aligned before work started. Once we began, any additional costs we incurred were outlined in a change order, which I approved before moving forward. Throughout the process, I always knew what my numbers were.

My advice as a now experienced renovator: Ask the minor questions, or the ones you may think are silly. Never assume that the team working on your job will do something without it being discussed. Walk-through every last corner of the space and look at all the details before the project wraps up to ensure any issues that concern you are addressed.

Small details make the difference

The thing I learned after posting this renovation is that you’ll make a lot of little decisions that only matter to you, but when your vision comes together well, it’s magical. We changed the swing of the kitchen door so that it now opens into the family room. It was a minor change that no one will ever notice—but it made a big difference in opening up the space. 

The kitchen and the breakfast room, with that gorgeous old stained-glass window, are closely tied for my favorite rooms in the house. The laundry room no longer feels dark and cramped—the natural light is incredible. What do I feel about the result? Happiness!

Thank you, Leigh and mom, for sharing your home with us!

Renovation Materials

KITCHEN RESOURCES:

• Paint in Kitten Whiskers, #1003, and Simply White, #OC-117 (trim): Benjamin Moore
• Moda Del Mar “Fiorella” Matte Ceramic 8”x8” Tile in Blue: Floor & Decor
• Custom kitchen cabinets: Sourced through contractor
• Countertops in Vanilla Noir, #5100: Caesarstone
• Elkay Quartz Luxe farmhouse sink in Ricotta: Build with Ferguson
• Filtered and traditional faucet in chrome: Water Inc.
• Glossy ceramic backsplash tile, Cloe 5”x5” in white: Bedrosians
• Heritage wall-mount faucet: Kingston Brass
• 24.8 cu. ft. french door refrigerator: Whirlpool
• 800 Series SHV878ZD3N dishwasher: Bosch
• Hiemey glass crystal, brushed-nickel octagon knobs: Amazon
• Oil-rubbed bronze knobs: Amerock
• Massey oil-rubbed bronze bin pull: Semihandmade
• Greenwich single sconce light: Rejuvenation
• Dempsey 52-inch LED indoor ceiling fan in Fresh White: Hunter

DINING AREA RESOURCES:

• Paint in Kitten Whiskers, #1003, and Simply White, #OC-117 (trim): Benjamin Moore
• Dempsey 52-inch LED indoor ceiling fan in Fresh White: Hunter

LAUNDRY RESOURCES:

• Paint in Kitten Whiskers, #1003, and Simply White, #OC-117 (trim): Benjamin Moore
• 4.8 cu ft stackable smart front load washer and 7.8 cu ft 10-cycle gas dryer: GE Appliances
• Faucet, 445 Series Chrome #445-GN8AE3RABCP and Spout #GN8BE4JKABCP: Chicago Faucet

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post A 1920s Childhood Home Remodel in Mid City, Los Angeles appeared first on Sweeten.

Our guide will get you started on achieving a budget, getting a handle on project duration, and finding your general contractor

You’re in good company if you’re looking to elevate your kitchen. Remodeling a kitchen in Chicago is one of the most highly requested projects because it can add significant value to your home. However, kitchen spaces involve complex systems that require strict adherence to building codes. The right contractor will guide you through the most challenging parts of the process, but here we break down kitchen remodeling, so you can feel prepared for the journey.

Getting prepared: Budget and design

Most real estate professionals will tell you the kitchen is the single most important room in any home, at least in terms of home value. The kitchen can represent up to 20% of the cost to build a home, but according to the National Association of Realtors, a kitchen upgrade has a 67% ROI. While other factors are involved (overall condition of the home, market conditions, buyer preferences), a well-designed and updated kitchen is a top priority with potential buyers. Your first step in starting your remodel is to establish what your new kitchen will achieve and in what style.

Set a budget that is workable

Before starting your kitchen remodel, establish a budget that covers the entire process. To do this, create two lists: one outlining your “must-haves” and the other detailing your “nice-to-haves.” These lists will help you organize and determine what are the essential requirements versus your preferences. By highlighting your preferences, you can remove them from the scope, if needed to prevent exceeding your budget.

Next, have a contingency plan ready. Your initial budget will go to materials, labor, and permits. However, you’ll need a budget contingency set aside in case unexpected issues or challenges arise during the renovation. Some examples include unforeseen structural repairs or additional work required to fix hidden issues. We suggest a fund of 10-15% of the original budget so that the project can continue moving forward.

Pulling the vision together

How do you want the space to function and which materials are most important to you? There are plenty of visual inspirations on Pinterest, Instagram, and from our Sweeten homeowners. Keep in mind the kitchen experiences daily traffic and is a high-touch space. Therefore, visiting kitchen showrooms or tile shops in person will give you ideas that jive with your lifestyle.

Local designers from Chicago reported what their clients are seeking function and design-wise. Their clients want their kitchen islands to do more which affects its size and shape. Many islands feature “step downs” with multiple levels of countertop each with a different function. Another design has storage on one end and an open space at the other to fit chairs. Additionally, there is a move away from the color white in cabinetry. Nature’s colors in greens, blues, and blue-greens are growing requests. The designers cite the popularity of quartz and porcelain slab countertops for their ease of maintenance.

Cost factors for your Chicago kitchen remodel

Having a realistic budget in hand is important when you meet with contractors during site visits. Our kitchen cost guide for Chicago is a good starting point. We’ve estimated the costs based on scope, finish level, and the type of service. 

For example, in Chicago, starting costs for a full renovation in a standard-sized kitchen, with no additional square footage added, are:

• Budget full kitchen remodel: Starts at $23,500

• Mid-range full kitchen remodel: Starts at $35,500

• High-end full kitchen remodel: Starts at $72,000

We suggest meeting at least three potential GCs at site visits and having at least three estimates from contractors you’d like to consider working. Post your project and we can connect you with vetted firms in Chicago who have experience in your scope of work and within your cost range. We can also talk you through the costs on a call if you need help honing in on a realistic budget.

Putting your renovation team together

You have a few options for your renovation team depending on the type of services you’re looking for. With that said, in all scenarios, your project will require a general contractor to execute the renovation. If your scope doesn’t include moving walls, tearing down walls, or modifying the electrical or plumbing systems, then you can hire a licensed general contractor directly. Projects with a more complex scope should engage an architect or interior designer to draw up plans. Your design visions should be in line with code and regulations. Lastly, a design-build firm will have both services from one company.

Preparing for permits and plan approvals

Chigagoans can generally expect to need some form of building permit from the Chicago Department of Buildings. Simple projects like painting won’t require a permit but kitchen remodels typically need a permit depending on the scope of work. 

Who applies for the building permit in Chicago?

One of the functions of your general contractor is to apply for any required building permits on your behalf. The Chicago DoB requires a general contractor to have a state issued license and carry a worker’s compensation insurance policy, among other qualifications.

Plan approvals

The DoB handles the permits for kitchen remodels and needs to approve any changes made to infrastructure including plumbing and electrical. Other systems are inspected as well such as a vent system installed in a new kitchen island or making sure fire suppression codes are up to date.

Your kitchen remodel may be subject to other approvals, such as those from a homeowner’s association or condo approval board. It’s best to have the paperwork they require far in advance of actually needing them. The HOA’s governing documents will list what must be submitted. Most application packages include detailed plans, drawings, specifications, and other documentation showing that all systems follow the HOA guidelines and regulations.

Permits

A kitchen remodel in Chicago typically requires various permit types depending on the scope of the project. Permits are required if there are significant changes being done such as structural work, relocating fixtures, or making changes to load-bearing walls. Common permits include a building permit, an electrical or plumbing permit, and ones relating to HVAC, gas, and ventilation. Also, the processing time varies so be sure to work the time range into the renovation calendar.  

If your scope is more straightforward and includes none of the above, you may qualify for the Easy Permit Program. This allows your contractor to sidestep the plan review process. Rip-and-replace projects in Chicago are commonly permitted this way, but there are limitations to how much, and what kind of work you can perform. 

Above all, be sure you’re working with a contractor who is up-to-date with Chicago building codes and regulations. Noncompliance can result in fines, work stoppage, or possibly post-renovation property devaluation. Our Sweeten contractors are qualified to work in the local Chicago area and are up-to-date on local codes and regulations.

How long does a kitchen remodel take?

The duration of a kitchen remodel in Chicago can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the project, the size of the kitchen, and the condition of the existing space. Typically, a kitchen remodel in Chicago can take anywhere from several weeks to several months.

For example, if you keep the kitchen’s layout, electrical, and plumbing systems unchanged and choose readily available materials, you can complete the renovation within a few weeks. Sweeten homeowners, Leah and Brian’s kitchen, initially decided to refinish their existing cabinets but had a change of heart and committed to replacing them instead. Black cabinets and marble-look countertops gave their Logan Square loft an instant update even without structural changes. 

However, if you’re looking for a renewed layout and are relocating plumbing and electrical, expect the project to take longer. Obtaining permits and board approvals or ordering custom items will also add to the timeframe.

In general, the order of a kitchen remodel is:

• Demolition and site preparation
• Installations
• Finishing
• Final walkthrough and punch list creation

Demolition and preparation

This first phase involves removing existing fixtures, cabinets, flooring, and appliances. It typically takes around 1-2 weeks, depending on the size of the kitchen and the extent of demolition required.

Before demolition, you’ll want to remove all loose kitchen items, furniture, and personal belongings to protect them from being damaged. Your contractor will safely disconnect all necessary utilities such as electricity, gas, and water. Therefore, be sure to plan for a temporary kitchen setup during the remodel so you can engage in some type of daily routine. 

To minimize dust and debris from spreading to other parts of the home, surrounding areas will be protected. This can include plastic sheeting, using temporary walls or barriers, and covering floors and furniture with protective materials.

After the demolition phase, the contractor assesses the condition of the walls, floors, and ceiling. Any underlying issues or necessary repairs identified will need to be addressed before the remodel can continue. It’s not unusual for a few surprises to surface at this point—or during the remodeling process—but an experienced contractor will know how to manage the situation. 

Issues can range from required plumbing or electrical updates, repairing conditions behind the walls to be code-compliant, or applying structural changes based on the plan. This is where having a contingency plan ready will allow the renovation to move forward smoothly.

Construction and installation

The key activities includes framing, electrical work, HVAC, and plumbing. If no new framing is needed then roughing-in new systems takes place or updating existing ones. The DOB will conduct an inspection for overall compliance to codes and regulations before the work is covered in drywall or flooring. This takes place if any of these systems are being installed or moved from one part of the room to another. If any work doesn’t meet approval, then it will be fixed, inspected again, and approved to move forward. 

New cabinets, countertops, flooring, backsplash, and appliances are installed by skilled labor, carpenters and technicians. Finally, a final inspection is scheduled to assess the overall safety, functionality, and compliance of the finished kitchen.

The duration of this phase can range from 4-8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the remodel.

Finishing touches

When the major construction phase is complete, the backsplash is put in and finishing touches are applied. This phase includes installing cabinet hardware, trim work, and painting. It usually takes around 1-2 weeks to complete.

Final walkthrough and punch list

At the final stage, you and your contractor will have a final walkthrough to assess the completed work. This is an important step where any issues or areas needing attention are identified before considering the project fully finished. This is your punch list, a checklist that may include touch-up painting, adjusting cabinet doors, or resolving any small tasks that might have been inadvertently overlooked during the project. Once each item on the punch list has been addressed, the project can be officially marked as complete.

Tips for surviving a kitchen remodel in Chicago

With proper planning and preparation, you can navigate a complex remodeling process more smoothly. Here are some tips to help you and your family get in the right mindset:

Create a temporary kitchen setup

Before the remodel begins, designate a temporary kitchen area in your home. This could be a small space with essential appliances like a microwave, toaster oven, and mini-fridge.

Establish a realistic timeline

Discuss the project timeline with your contractor and have a clear understanding of how long the renovation will take. Keep in mind that unforeseen delays can happen, so factor in some extra time when planning your temporary kitchen and adjusting your daily routines.

Protect belongings and minimize dust

Kitchen renovations can generate a significant amount of dust and debris. Before demolition starts, take the necessary precautions to protect your belongings.

Communicate with your contractor

Maintain open and regular communication with your contractor on the project’s progress, any unexpected changes, and potential disruptions. Clear communication will help address any concerns promptly and ensure that the project stays on track.

Connect with Sweeten contractors

Be flexible and patient

Remodeling projects often encounter unexpected challenges or delays. Stay flexible and patient as these issues arise. Temporary inconveniences are part of the process and your experienced contractor will know how to navigate the issues.

Take breaks and relax

It’s important to prioritize your well-being during a renovation. Take breaks outside the home and step away from the construction site. Stay focused on the end result—a functioning dream kitchen.

What’s the first step to starting a kitchen renovation in Chicago?

Whether your project requires the services of an architect or designer or not, you will need a general contractor to execute the build. We can match you with local professionals who are vetted and have experience with a scope similar to yours. We suggest getting estimates to compare from at least three firms you like. Post your kitchen project and get started.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post How To Remodel a Kitchen in Chicago appeared first on Sweeten.

Making your galley kitchen bigger

The key to making your galley kitchen inspiration successful is all about maximizing the available square footage. But when you’ve optimized every inch and still need more space, the question becomes: how do you make a galley kitchen bigger?

Demolishing the entire kitchen and its surrounding walls is not always a realistic option. Bringing down walls partially provides some openness while not eliminating all walls which are important for storage. Another way to expand a galley kitchen layout is by allowing the kitchen to extend into nearby living spaces. See how the five Sweeten renovations below snuck in a little more outside their two walls.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure deposits—for free.

A countertop extension perfect for parties

Instead of taking down walls to open things up, Joel and Eric worked with their designers to build a wraparound kitchen countertop to join the kitchen and nearby dining room. The one-piece counter is perfect for hosting parties: it provides a spot for pouring drinks and serving buffet-style dinners without leaving the kitchen. As a bonus, the extended storage helps mitigate the build-up of clutter.

Simple solution: a pass-through

Gina and Andrew’s kitchen was closed off from the rest of their apartment. As a layout, being closed off isn’t always undesired. However, the couple wanted to move beyond their dark galley kitchen, which also had an awkward layout. Their plans required moving a load-bearing wall. Therefore, architectural drawings needed to be submitted for approval. It was worth it for their Sweeten contractor to build a two-seat breakfast bar (and fit a stackable washer and dryer). The pass-through gave a new dimension to the galley layout. It also created a welcomed social aspect between the kitchen and dining area.  

A patio comes inside

Laura and Tim were ready to trade in their “old and grungy” kitchen in their 1929 brick townhouse.  They remodeled their galley kitchen and kept the layout—with one major change. They enclosed an outdoor patio at the back of the kitchen that had a drafty door which was also poorly located. The new plan was to envelop the patio into the cook space and the adjacent dining area. What started as a kitchen remodel turned into a full-blown extension project. A skylight in the new enclosure brought in a stream of natural light.

Galley kitchen inspiration: Turn the corner

Shifting the location of a nearby closet allowed Melissa and Blake to enlarge the galley kitchen into the living room. This created space for more cabinets, a wine rack, and counter space. Their Sweeten contractor removed a second closet also outside the kitchen and built a bar counter with seating in its place. By “turning the corners” off the galley, the couple gained a lot more kitchen space.

Separating the dining area from the kitchen

Moving the eating nook outside of the kitchen allowed Lisa and Chris to extend their cabinets along the back wall. The sink and stove remained in the same locations. However, the fridge was relocated allowing the opposite wall to have a long continuous countertop. A part of the wall was partially removed to create a large, eat-in peninsula. The extremely cramped galley kitchen now felt more open and organized.

When you’re ready to get started on your kitchen or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post Here’s How to Make a Galley Kitchen Bigger appeared first on Sweeten.

“After” photos by Kate Glicksberg for Sweeten

• Designer Bennett Gale posted his project on Sweeten on behalf of his client Dan.
  
• Where: Greenwich Village, Manhattan, New York
  
• Primary renovation: Living room renovation to expand + kitchen remodel in a 900-square-foot co-op
  
• Notable: The remodel transformed a cramped living room into a swanky billiards chamber.
  
• Result: An open kitchen, a dry bar with party potential and plenty of room to cue pool
  
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free..

A living room renovation gives room for a fave sport

Sometimes even man-cave passions are well worth making room for. Designer Bennett Gale knew this when he agreed to help his friend Dan, who had purchased a one-bedroom apartment in a 1960 New York City building, with its remodel.

“For the longest time, the only piece of furniture that Dan had—before he even bought a bed—was a pool table,” recalled Bennett, who works as a project manager for a luxury real-estate developer. The dark-wood billiards console—sturdy, angular, and clad in camel-toned felt—was a prized possession and an essential feature in the project. Dan, a finance executive who’d moved into the co-op about a year before starting on the redesign, had made it the apartment’s centerpiece.

A pool table in a Manhattan apartment may sound like a literal elephant in the room, but Bennett, who had been close with Dan since college, understood its importance and was happy to discuss it. The table had a modern design and good bones. With a set of 4 – 5 table leaves that let it multitask as a dining surface, the nifty four-legged table was also practical—Dan had gathered many a friend around it. The issue was that his otherwise sparsely set living room felt tight when the table was in use. “I wanted to create more space around it,” said Dan. Plus, more elbow room would be useful for pool cues!

Planning an entertainment space at home

Dan and Bennett worked together to post the job on Sweeten and soon hired a contractor. Then they set out to upgrade the co-op into the ultimate bachelor’s pad. (Note: Dan’s girlfriend has moved in since the renovation—and reportedly, loves the space.) The original scope of the project, Bennett said, grew substantially. “We’d planned to open up the wall between the kitchen and the living room, but once we dug into the plans, it became clear that by taking out a few walls and relocating a closet, we could make better use of the space.”

He proposed a full reconfiguration that would knock out a lot of flow-hampering sheetrock, give the kitchen an eye-catching redo, and elevate the living room to become a spacious entertaining hub. The makeover would bring light and a chic, loft-like sprawl to the downtown apartment.

Conversations about specifics began in the kitchen. Bennett and Dan put a lot of research into cohesive surfacing choices. “Dark-wood parquet flooring dominates a lot of the space,” Bennett said, “so we lightened up the walls and chose materials that coordinated with the wood.” Dan opted for kitchen cabinets in a custom textured veneer with blond accents; dark matte-bronze cabinet hardware and coordinating lighting fixtures complement the stained wood. The natural marble that Dan settled on for the countertops is a warm white with earth-toned veining that echoes the deep brown pool and dining table.

Sample testing the countertop materials

Quality and durability were primary factors. Dan had decided to go “all in” on natural marble for the countertops and backsplash. “We did countless tests on countertop samples in order to determine whether we should go with honed marble or polished,” Bennett said. “Olive oil, red wine, hot sauce, pickle juice, and soda were tested to observe how it would stain or etch.” Dan chose a matte honed finish, which is more resistant to discoloration and allows scratches and marks to blend. “From multiple slabs, we identified one with as much veining and movement as possible,” Bennett said. 

With materials picked and sourced, the real work began. The crew opened the kitchen, installed cabinetry and appliances, and created a three-stooled stretch of counter seating on the opening’s living-room side. From there, the apartment’s other unnecessary walls got the sledgehammer. Bennett’s plan included taking out a hallway wall to give more space around the pool table.

To complete the space expansion, the removal of a corner closet revealed a protruding column. Bennett designed a dry bar to fill the accidental niche. “That awkward corner became a great opportunity,” Bennett said. “We negotiated with the contractor to have the bar included in the build-out. It ended up as a great display.” The closet was relocated to an oversized and inefficient foyer.

Choosing the right general contractor team

As is the case in most every home-construction job, the team hit some snags. During demolition, contractors discovered that the electrical wiring needed to be upgraded. Bennett emphasizes the importance of reading and understanding co-op or condo board rules and sharing them with contractors, who must not only work within the regulations, but also lock in the appropriate licenses and insurance coverages for the project.

A cooperative relationship between the construction crew and building staff is an absolute must, according to Bennett. “Get the super involved early,” he says. “These individuals almost always have previous experience with renovations in the building, and can often provide valuable insight on the exact issues you’ll encounter.” Fortunately, Dan received support from Sweeten throughout the process, and from Bennett, his friend (and architect!) “I would have been lost without his experience, guidance, and recommendations, not to mention his help pushing back on the contractors and the building when I needed it,” he said.

All challenges aside, though, “I’m very happy with the finished product,” Dan said. “I accomplished exactly what I was looking to do.” 

Thank you, Bennett and Dan, for sharing the results of a great collaboration! 

SHOPPING GUIDE

KITCHEN: Porcelain floor tiles: Tile Depot. Kitchen cabinets: Provided by contractor. Bronze cabinet hardware: Emtek. Calacatta Calvini honed marble countertops: Stone Source. Grohe Brushed Chrome faucet: AJ Madison. Bosch refrigerator, Bertazzoni dishwasher, range, and hood: P.C. Richard & Son. Light fixtures: Y Lighting.

LIVING SPACE: White Dove paint: Benjamin Moore. Pool table: Blatt Billiards. Sectional sofa: West Elm. Light fixture over pool table: Tech Lighting.

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ADUs or accessory dwelling units can transform into home offices, living space for family or as a rental, or a retreat.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post A Living Room Renovation Puts A Pool Table in the Spotlight appeared first on Sweeten.

“After” photos by Kate Glicksberg for Sweeten

Appealing to the ideal renter

Originally when entrepreneur, we will call him AC, bought his apartment,  he intended to live there himself. However, after a few months, he decided it would make an even better investment property as a rental. To make it more renter-friendly, he wanted to enclose the upstairs loft. Doing so would convert the apartment into a two-bedroom —opening it up to a whole new market. He also wanted the design of the space to reflect the neighborhood vibe and attract young professionals with a modern aesthetic and lifestyle. To take on this rental property upgrade, he needed a professional for the renovation.

Finding the renovation team

AC posted his project on Sweeten and hired this general contractor. Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free..

“The contractor I found through Sweeten was great because he was very flexible with the changes to the scope of the work,” says AC. “Plus, the Sweeten team was accommodating and always on top of looking after my project.”

The post A Duplex Loft Elevates to a Charming Rental appeared first on Sweeten.

A successful kitchen renovation isn’t measured by the number of walls knocked down or the size of a kitchen island. Instead, it’s the thoughtful details and design elements culled over time from Pinterest and the hours of research on materials coming to life that brings the joy for a lifestyle that finally fits you and your family.

Here we look at 11 kitchens renovated by homeowners who came to Sweeten, a free renovation platform that matches homeowners with licensed general contractors and tracks their projects. Some were major transformations removing walls, creating built-ins, and adding new windows, while others proved that smart improvements in space efficiency, updated materials, and renewed layouts gave them the overall refreshes they wanted. 

From outdated to classic gray

After living on Long Island for many years, Rosalind and Lawrence were ready to downsize and return to their beloved former hometown of Brooklyn. They purchased a 100-year-old home in Cypress Hills and slowly started renovating the outdated spaces. After refreshes of two bathrooms, a staircase, and a walk-in closet were complete, they decided to turn their attention to the kitchen.

The main problem besides the yellow walls, dated wooden cabinets, and orange-tiled backsplash, was the lack of storage. Rosalind was forced to store her larger appliances like the slow cooker and mixer in the living room. So, with the help of a Sweeten contractor, the couple reimagined their layout and added a kitchen island that doubles as storage as well as a convenient gathering spot. Rosalind chose gray tones throughout and accented them with interesting geometric shapes.

Same layout, more storage

Shoko and Rob really liked their 900-square-foot apartment in Harlem, New York. The only thing that gnawed at them was the “orange-y cabinetry, shiny black appliances, and brown countertop.” So they decided to take the plunge and redo the small kitchen. 

They did their research and found information from designer Keren Richter on how to make the most of their cook space and turned to Sweeten to execute their vision. In addition to overhauling the look of the kitchen, they wanted to improve the flow and functionality with more storage as their top goal. Their original kitchen didn’t take advantage of the ceiling height so they extended the new upper cabinetry to get as close as possible to the ceiling. In all, they were able to create a minimalist style yet warm space to cook in and entertain.

Dark and dated to contemporary chic

How do you make a house feel more like a loft apartment? First, you open up the layout so that you have an unobstructed sightline across the first floor. For Romuald and his family, this meant tearing down a wall between the kitchen and the main living space. To regain the storage space lost by removing the cabinets on that wall, they decided to do what many do: build an island. 

They also added other design touches to fit into their cooking-centric lives. Their Sweeten contractor suggested they install an “appliance garage” to make their countertop less cluttered. Being avid cooks, Romuald and his wife have a lot of small appliances, including a toaster, coffee maker, and mixer, that would be nicely concealed—but yet easily accessible—by this storage solution. They also put in a pot-filler above the stove and a microwave drawer in the island. 

The warm gray cabinets complement the white quartz countertop and the classic subway tile of the backsplash. For ease of cleaning and added durability, Romuald installed a porcelain floor that mimics the look of real wood.

Island design

Veteran renovators Jennifer and Joe always knew their New Jersey apartment wouldn’t be complete without a kitchen remodel. They, like many homeowners, wanted an open-concept layout in order to see the amazing views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and George Washington Bridge that their apartment affords. 

They asked their Sweeten contractor to knock down a wall to get better sightlines to the wall of windows in their living room. Unfortunately, the entire wall could not be removed as it was load-bearing. So their contractor took down as much of the wall as possible and utilized the rest of the space to house the refrigerator. 

Jennifer and Joe based the design entirely around the marble waterfall island, which features a deep black base with white veins throughout the countertop. The color palette of the entire kitchen plays off the two tones, with glossy black drawers and all-white upper and lower cabinetry as well as a white quartz countertop. Not one detail was spared, from the under-cabinet lighting to the textured backsplash.

Midcentury Scandi meets Italian modern

“I wanted midcentury Scandi meets 70s Italian modern,” says Brooklyn Sweeten homeowner Melissa of her design preference for her kitchen. The co-op building itself had a midcentury vibe so she wanted to continue it inside. 

First things first, her Sweeten contractor removed walls that were blocking off the kitchen from the living area. Once that was complete, natural sunlight bathed the entire apartment. She carefully selected a mix of different materials (matte concrete floor and counters) as well as warmer accents in her textile and paint choices. A built-in shelf intersects over a new peninsula for additional seating. She didn’t move the plumbing (which is an added cost) or change the location of the appliances. 

From the ’80s to modern industrial

For their one-bedroom co-op in a 19th-century converted warehouse, homeowners Dan and Mike wanted to bring their 1980s kitchen into a new era. While they desired a nod to the industrial roots of the building, they did want the aesthetic to be balanced.

They hired a Sweeten contractor to help redefine the space. To create an open floor plan, a wall was removed as well as the upper cabinets, which were replaced with beautiful open shelves of salvaged Douglas Fir. The base cabinets were updated from laminate to a full set of IKEA cabinets and drawers, customized by Semihandmade. A modern waterfall countertop on the peninsula was used to visually separate the kitchen entry. They also utilized different natural and synthetic wood finishes to maintain a measure of warmth and masculinity.

A dark kitchen sees the (natural) light 

Even after tackling other updates to their colonial-style home, Nydia and Jonathan knew that renovating their Brooklyn kitchen was a top priority. The old version had mismatched appliances, dated cabinets, and not enough counter space. The dark space hardly felt welcoming (or functional) for their family of five. 

They turned to Sweeten to help with the construction process, hiring a trusted contractor from its carefully vetted network. The project involved rethinking the layout to opening up the stairway to the basement, which is accessed via the kitchen. The renovation helped key kitchen elements find new locations: the refrigerator moved out of the main cooking area, the dishwasher now sits directly across from the sink, and the walls surrounding the basement stairs were taken down. By replacing existing cabinets with ceiling-height ones and adding a peninsula, the space was really transformed.

From functional to fabulous

A mutual love of cooking (and of cooking together) ultimately led Marissa and Jeremy to renovate their small kitchen in their Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, co-op. The space was so cramped that it brought about a special house rule: Only one person allowed in the kitchen at a time when cooking in order to keep the peace. 

Twenty-four inches of usable counter space was quintupled through the renovation, while other unique elements were added to suit the couple’s preferences and lifestyle. For example, they went non-traditional for the backsplash, using an antique mirror. They also installed a ventless washer/dryer combo unit and removed the space-invading gas dryer vent. “While a gas dryer dries clothes much faster than a ventless dryer, I wanted the extra counter space more than I wanted clothes dried in 20 minutes,” Marissa said. They capped off the gas vent and went long with the back counter. “I am excited about so many parts of our kitchen that I don’t know if I can pick a favorite!” she said.

A modern vision brought to life through an extension

For Laura and Tim, they decided they needed to do something about their kitchen that was “falling apart”—it had water damage from a leaky shower upstairs, the door to the patio was drafty, the cabinets were dark and “grungy,” and it generally just needed some fixing up.

The couple consulted their friend and designer Suzy Leon of Suzy Leon Design, Ltd. and came up with a plan to gut the existing kitchen but also enclose their back patio. The additional interior square footage would connect and provide a better flow between the kitchen, dining room, and outdoor space. The new enclosure would feature skylights to brighten the space. 

They kept the galley layout but chose a light color palette in the “minty” green shaker cabinets to offset the dark plank wood floors. White quartz countertops were utilized to help make the flow look more open and airy.

Reaching new heights—with less ceiling

With an 18-inch tiny dishwasher, an oven that wasn’t big enough to fit a cookie tray, and a kitchen sitting underneath a loft, a renovation was long overdue for this mom who cooked five nights a week.

One major challenge homeowners Emily and Trey faced was the inability to move the building’s intercom system that was smack in the middle of the kitchen. They hired a Sweeten contractor who came up with a good solution: create an L-shaped peninsula to accommodate the immovable pole—and give them more space and storage at the same time.

In addition to the new peninsula, they were also able to get rid of the loft above, which increased the ceiling height drastically. The result was a well-thought-out new kitchen perfect for the family of four’s busy lifestyle.

First time’s a charm

Jennifer and Jonn couldn’t believe their luck when they found their 2,100-square-foot, three-bedroom duplex in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. It was the perfect location for their family of two kids and a dog. The story goes that the co-op was the result of combining three one-bedroom apartments to create a huge two-level residence with sole access to a sprawling rear garden. Voila! The perfect home…but with one catch: It needed to be renovated. 

The couple had their work cut out for them with this space that hadn’t been updated since the ’70s. They hired a contractor through Sweeten who was able to transform their white laminate kitchen into a light-filled galley kitchen with an eat-in banquette. They used shaker cabinets and five-panel doors while incorporating metals like brass lights and stainless steel appliances for a modern look.

Kitchens are arguably one of the most pivotal spaces in our homes. From giving us a gathering point to break bread together to providing space to tackle assignments and hobbies; every kitchen should deliver the kind of peace of mind (and organizational flow) that homeowners need. 

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Inspired to renovate your kitchen? Check out Sweeten’s cost guides here.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post Before & After: Kitchen Edition appeared first on Sweeten.

It was something like the seven-year itch that had Jessica and Alex setting off on their own. Having lived in a Manhattan rental for six years, they received a lease renewal from their landlord for the seventh. Jessica a real-estate development executive, and Alex, who works in finance as a strategist, sat down to discuss their New York City future. They decided to sign the lease but make it their last. 

After a successful search, Jessica and Alex closed on an 800-square-foot co-op in Chelsea and posted their one-bedroom, one-bathroom project on Sweeten, a free renovation platform connecting homeowners with vetted general contractors. They soon found a design-build firm for their overhaul. Read on to learn how this renovation turned a “fine” apartment to fabulous.

“After” photos by Miao Jiaxin for Sweeten

Guest blog post by homeowner Jessica

We purchased the apartment with intentions to renovate. We both love architecture and design, and we wanted a place that we could make our own. The previous apartment, with its sunny balcony and endless closet space, had given us high standards, and working in real estate, I look at beautiful homes all the time. We wanted a home where we could make our mark and add the elements we craved.

We were thrilled when we landed on this one-bedroom apartment, in a 1930s Chelsea co-op. The building had great bones and Art Deco details but the apartment needed work. We’d been following Sweeten, and after closing, when we knew the reno was imminent, we looked to the service for direction. We wanted to create a clean, modern space marrying traditional and contemporary design elements accented with our personal twists. Throughout, we planned to incorporate art and photos from our travels.

Living in the apartment for about half a year and bringing our Sweeten contractor onboard brought the project into focus. We wanted to rethink the closet layouts and planned to update the living room’s custom built-ins. We were also looking for a lighting solution since the courtyard-facing unit didn’t get much natural light.

Last but certainly not least, we planned to improve the kitchen and the bathroom. Additional cosmetic and electrical updates included new doors and hardware and USB outlets throughout the apartment. Our contractor was patient, listening to our thoughts (lots of them), answering questions and—most of all—assuring us that he could get the job done, within our time constraints and with the level of quality we were hoping for. 

A narrow galley kitchen? Yes. And we love it.

Closets and storage came first. We’d known when we purchased the apartment that we were in for a major storage deficit. With our contractor’s help, we found we could reconfigure the hall and bedroom closets, which backed up to one another. We moved the interior wall, creating a larger bedroom closet with French doors (sliding doors can restrict access). Downsizing the hallway closet felt like a sacrifice, but we outfitted the space for linen-and-shoe storage—useful and enviable extras in NYC.

The kitchen was one room where plans changed. It had been renovated and we hadn’t planned on a gut-job. We love to cook and entertain, and didn’t want to forego full-sized appliances, but we wanted more cupboard and counter space. We ultimately did a full rip-and-replace. The cabinets are an off-the-shelf pick that we stacked to the ceiling; it was like putting together a giant puzzle, but was good for our budget and timeline, and gave us a ton of storage. The cabinet above the dishwasher was a last-minute call to increase pantry space. Quartz countertops and a slab backsplash give us a marble look without the maintenance. A narrow galley kitchen? Yes. And we love it.

The old ’70s bathroom remained, and it was a full demo and redo. We replaced the peach and yellow bathroom tile, which appeared to be original to the building, with marble subway tile, placed vertically for some spin. We played with metals, choosing an unexpected iron vanity (the countertop is quartz) and chrome hardware. The floor tiles are porcelain, sleek and durable.

The rear-facing apartment was pin-drop quiet, but dark. The silence was a luxury to us, having endured roaring sunrise garbage pickups and the revelry of late-night barhoppers. But the long living room, which also comprises the dining area, had just two windows and no built-in light fixtures. We installed recessed LED lighting in this room and it brightened the area so perfectly that we added it in the bedroom, the bath and, finally, the kitchen.

The existing built-in cabinets spanning the windowed wall in the living room provided additional storage and brightened up the room with a fresh coat of white paint. We removed a floating center unit to accommodate a wall-mount TV. 

To finish, our Sweeten contractor detailed with all new doors and hardware and added those USB outlets, which become more useful every day. It was our idea to hang wallpaper in the foyer; the subtle raffia gives the walls texture and depth. We chose materials that would stand the test of time from both an aesthetic and durability standpoint. But it was so helpful to have an expert to guide us. There are a ton of vendors out there and our contractor had relationships with suppliers and experience with almost any material available.

Our advice as first-timers is to do the research and know what you want but keep an open mind! Seeing the work progress day-over-day and week-over-week was amazing, and we’re so thrilled with the outcome! Adding our stamp to this place was fun and fulfilling. What a great feeling!

Thank you, Jessica and Alex, for sharing your story!

BATHROOM RESOURCES: Floor and wall tile: Tiles Unlimited. Shower fixtures: Delta. Sink and vanity: RH.

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Galley kitchens are more flexible than you may think. Here are some ways to fold them into the living spaces.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post Long-time Renters Shine as Renovating Homeowners appeared first on Sweeten.

When Martha, who works in preschool special education, first saw the Hamilton Heights co-op in upper Manhattan she would eventually buy, she passed because it needed a lot of work. She continued looking, searching for a permanent space to share with her daughter, Sofia, a 4th grader. But after a year and no luck, when her realtor encouraged her to take another look, a lightbulb went off. No longer daunted, Martha embraced the possibilities of the apartment’s pre-war flourishes, including 10-foot ceilings, french doors, and transom windows.

To transform the 700-square-foot apartment, Martha, a first-time renovator, posted the project on Sweeten, a free renovation platform connecting homeowners with vetted general contractors, chose her contractor and got down to business creating their home.

“After” photos by Miao Jiaxin for Sweeten

Guest blog post by Sweeten homeowner Martha

We were living in a great apartment nearby for four years. But after my divorce, I knew I needed to find something to purchase in order to control my housing costs. Since I’m a full-time, working, single parent, the more I can get my costs under control, the better off we’ll be in the long term. I had an amazing real estate agent who looked at places in my price range for a full year.

The apartment I ended up buying was the first home I saw when I started my search! But it needed so much work that I automatically said no and we moved on. After my realtor encouraged me to take another look, I saw it with new eyes. I saw the potential in it, and not just the work that needed to be done.

One of the biggest challenges was that I had a tight timeline—I was paying rent along with a mortgage plus maintenance, and I couldn’t afford that for long. So I had to use only materials that were in stock. It was limiting, but I think we made do! I wanted to open things up and make a home that was cozy and colorful, that would reflect our personalities and be welcoming.

The first few days during the demo were the best part of the process, because I could finally see what things were really going to look like.

The highest priority with the renovation was to cure the ugliness! The apartment hadn’t been touched since the ’70s. There was fake wood paneling in the hallways, old linoleum plunked down over the amazing original hardwood floors, and layers and layers of paint. The space was tight and there was a lot of wasted space in the kitchen that I wanted to find a way to utilize.

The first few days during the demo were the best part of the process, because I could finally see what things were really going to look like. I was most excited to take down the wall between the kitchen and the living room. It made all the difference in creating an open, warm area. Once we knocked that down, it gave us space for a table and chairs that we wouldn’t have otherwise. 

In the kitchen, we installed new custom cabinets, plus more cabinets next to the stove. I went for a 30-inch stainless-steel farmer’s sink, quartz countertops, and a new stove. My favorite thing in the whole house is the kitchen backsplash; I love that funky design.

My contractor really wanted me to lay a new floor on top of the old one. But I loved the color variation in the original wood so I insisted it stay. We kept all the original flooring, just refinished and stained.

The biggest challenge was that the apartment has zero closets. I didn’t have the budget to build them so we bought a couple of big wardrobes and a funky metal gym locker for a linen closet and made it work. At least we had more vertical space to work with because after we removed the dropped ceilings, we gained at least two feet!

I’m a first-time renovator, so I really needed someone who would listen, do good work, deliver on time, and stay within budget and I got all of that. My Sweeten contractor was great and I really had no headaches with my renovation, which is amazing! He was really communicative, and anytime something needed to be changed or wasn’t going to work according to plan, he explained everything to me. Then we worked towards solutions together, which was so helpful. It went as smoothly as one could ask for.

When you’re renovating, remember that there will inevitably be something or some things that don’t go according to your plan. Try to see the big picture and not freak out about the details.

I wanted our forever home to be a place of joy that you can see. Our home makes me feel free.

Thank you, Martha and Sofia, for sharing your new home with us!

WATCH VIDEO:

KITCHEN RESOURCES: Floor tiles, backsplash, lighting, paint: Home Depot. Cabinet hardware: Hobby Lobby. Faucet, fan: Wayfair.

LIVING ROOM RESOURCES: Fan: Wayfair.

BEDROOM RESOURCES: Fan: Wayfair. Paint: Home Depot.

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Sweeten founder and CEO weighs in on what to know before renovating a brownstone.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post A Mom and Daughter Remodel Their Forever Home appeared first on Sweeten.

Getting your renovation on the calendar

One of the most common questions that we at Sweeten hear from homeowners is “How long does a kitchen renovation take?” This usually comes right after “How much does a kitchen renovation cost?” Our handy Renovation Checklist tells you what you need to do—but how long does it take to do it all?

Typically, we suggest that after closing on your apartment, you allow three weeks to four months for the completion of your kitchen renovation. The timeframe depends on complexity, the size of your space, and scope.

For example, if you are 1) not altering the footprint, 2) not changing or adding electrical or plumbing, and 3) using stock cabinetry and appliances, it’s reasonable to expect that your renovation will be done in a few weeks. If, however, you are moving your kitchen from one part of your home to another, requiring both city permits as well as board approvals, and using imported custom cabinets—you should give it several months. The wide range is due to the fact that there can be many moving parts and multiple parties involved. Certain aspects may be beyond your control. Sweeten breaks down a kitchen renovation step-by-step.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments—for free.

PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE

While the attention is usually on the most visible construction phase, a lot needs to happen before picking up that sledgehammer. Here, the details on each box that needs to be ticked before you break ground on the project.

STEP 1: Close on your property (1-3 months)

There are a significant number of homeowners who are in contract or preparing to close on a property when they begin the process of planning a renovation. The best advice is to wait until you have closed on the property, with keys in hand, before doing anything. If you’re in a hurry—at least wait until you’ve signed the contract before beginning the design process.

STEP 2: Post your project (1-3 days)

First things first: Post your project to Sweeten and begin soliciting bids. On the Sweeten site, add some details about the space you want to renovate. Inspiration photos are optional but useful for us to find you contractors who have done similar styles. Include any other information that would help Sweeten match you with the right contractors. You’ll receive 3-5 matches with links to check out contractors’ profiles online. Read reviews from clients and photos of their past projects to see whether they might be a good fit.

STEP 3: Schedule site visits and solicit bids (1-3 weeks)

Decide which contractors you’d like to set up a meeting with and prepare for an on-site visit. An in-person visit is the best way for a contractor to understand the scope of the project, the physical possibilities, and the limitations of the space. You’ll also see if personalities and communication styles mesh. You should expect a written bid within 5-7 business days after your visit.

(Above) Katherine + Chris’ kitchen renovation

STEP 4: Level bids and choose a contractor (1-2 weeks)

Once all the written bids have come in, it’s time to compare and contrast! This primer on leveling bids might come in handy. If you have follow-up questions, now is the time to ask. You can also schedule time with Sweeten to walk you through the various bids and weigh in on the selection.

STEP 5: Sign a contract and finalize construction schedule (1 week)

Once you’ve decided on a contractor, he or she will put together a contract for you to review. This will typically include a description of the work to be done, an outline of the costs, as well as the timing of payments throughout the project.

STEP 6: Obtain permits and approvals (ranges widely)

Of all the steps where hiccups or delays might occur, this is it. Obtaining the correct permits and necessary approvals have held up many a renovation, but don’t be daunted. Sweeten contractors are well-versed in navigating these processes and often can advise you on how to achieve your renovation goals with the least amount of hassle. If you’re moving plumbing or gas lines, you’ll need an architect and additional DOB permits. Sweeten homeowners have reported obtaining approvals in as little as two weeks—but it’s more common for it to take a couple months.

If you live in a stand-alone house, you won’t need to worry about building board approvals. However, you’ll still need the requisite city permits for any electrical or plumbing work to make sure everything is up to code.

STEP 7: Source materials (ranges widely)

If you are responsible for sourcing all or some of the materials in your renovation, be sure to place the orders as soon as the design plan is finished. Certain items have long lead times, and you don’t want that one faucet to hold up the entire renovation. If time is a concern, look at what’s currently in stock and ready to ship. Speak with your contractor about timing the product delivery to coincide with time of installation.

STEP 8: Tell your neighbors you’re renovating (15 minutes)

Be a good neighbor and alert them. Tell them what to expect and how long the project is slated to last. It’s always easier to stomach the disruption when you know there’s an end in sight! It doesn’t hurt to bring some sweets, a bottle of wine, or a gift card for a local coffee shop. When the reno is over, invite them over!

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Note: While most of the steps under “Construction” are your contractor’s responsibility, it’s important to understand what should be happening and when. It is vital to make the scheduled payments to your contractor (as outlined in your contract) so the project can keep moving forward. Also, keep your schedule open for several hours a week to answer questions about details or changes that come up over the course of construction.

STEP 9: It’s demo time (1-2 days)

Out with the old! Now that you’re done with the paperwork, it’s time (for your contractor) to pick up that sledgehammer. Items that are staying should be protected with tarp or plastic. Depending on how large your kitchen is, and how extensive the renovation, this shouldn’t take more than a day or two.

STEP 10: Reroute plumbing and electrical (1-4 days)

With the space stripped down to the studs, new plumbing or electrical can be placed where it needs to go. Consider whether any plans need to be altered now that you can see what’s behind the walls.

STEP 11: City inspections and sign-offs (1 hour on-site)

If you needed city permits, inspections and a final sign-off may be needed before the walls are closed up, particularly with gas lines. While it may take the inspector an hour to do his job at the site, scheduling the actual appointment could take days or weeks.

A master plumber is typically allowed to sign off on pipework for water lines if the city inspector doesn’t show up. However, an inspector must examine and approve any work on gas lines. You are not allowed to close up the walls and move onto the next phase of the project before this inspection happens.

Note: With electrical work, inspectors generally are scheduled for visits once the project is 100 percent complete. They will check the electrical panel, junction boxes, and outlets. Sometimes, because of city bureaucracy and delays, your electrical inspection may be rescheduled two or three times. 

STEP 12: Installation – floors (1-5 days)

Make sure the flooring you choose is consistent throughout the room, even if they’re hidden. If you decide in the future to reconfigure the cabinet layout, the floors won’t need to be redone.

STEP 13: Installation – all other material including cabinets and appliances (1-10 days)

Installation of all other materials is usually in this order: cabinets, appliances, fixtures and lighting, counters, backsplash, and cabinet hardware. Aspects of this may vary, depending on site conditions, and the arrival time of the materials.

STEP 14: Clean-up (1 day)

Typically, contracts allow that the space is left in a “broom-swept” condition. However, you may want to hire post-construction cleaning specialists to ensure it is cleaned to your specifications.

POST-CONSTRUCTION PHASE

STEP 15: Final walk-through with your contractor (30-60 minutes)

Review the work with your contractor: try all the drawers and doors, look closely at the edges and finishes, and make sure everything is working the way it should. If there are any problems, point them out and add them to the punch list. The contractor will either fix it on the spot (if it’s minor) or set up another time to return. Sweeten’s founder + CEO, Jean Brownhill, advises to keep notepads in each space, and not speak to your contractor for two weeks during this time. Take notes of what needs fixing as you live in your new home.

STEP 16: Punch list items (1-10 days)

Punch list items can be issues from straightening a cabinet door to waiting on installing that last out-of-stock item. Completing the punch list can take anywhere from a day to several weeks. When it’s on the long side, though, that is usually due to items being back-ordered. Otherwise, your contractor should be able to return and fix everything in a few days.

STEP 17: The final payment (10 minutes)

When the last item on your punch list has been addressed, the remaining payment is paid to your contractor and the project is complete. 

This timeline is meant to give you a detailed look at the various aspects of renovating and typical time ranges. Factors that may be outside of both your and the contractor’s control should be taken into account. In general, Sweeten renovators report that their kitchen renovations are completed between three weeks to two months (depending on the level of complexity). The key to staying on track is isolating the steps that you think might be obstacles and allotting more time to get them done.

When you’re ready to get started on your kitchen or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

Popular questions asked

The post How Long Does a Kitchen Renovation Take? appeared first on Sweeten.

A chance discovery of a larger apartment due north of Midtown West in Manhattan led a family of four to a new home. Ylia, a strategy and retail planner, and André, in wealth management, found more space in Washington Heights for their two boys, ages two and three. But this 1,600-square-foot fixer-upper with two bedrooms and two baths would need a revamp. The couple posted their project on Sweeten, a free service matching renovators with trained professionals. They found a Sweeten architect to help them with the redesign they were seeking, including—by happy accident—giving the co-op a loft-like vibe.

Guest blog post by Sweeten homeowner Ylia

My husband and I were renting a two-bedroom in Hell’s Kitchen, where I was born and raised. My husband had moved in about 15 years ago. It was the perfect amount of space for us in a great neighborhood before the kids came along. We quickly outgrew the apartment, especially after our second son, leaving us with the desire for more square footage. We searched for quite a while with no luck. We had given up the search and decided to make due for as long as we could. 

Then one day on a whim André went to see an apartment in Washington Heights. It was in bad shape, but it was larger than any listing we had looked at prior and we could personalize the fixer-upper the way we wanted. 

Since this was a co-op built in 1914, we knew we had our work cut out for us. Between the outdated electrical, plumbing, creaky floors, and cracked walls, we knew it would require serious professional help. We reached out to Sweeten, and they linked us up with several architects to choose from who’d help us with the design. We also decided we’d continue renting during the renovation.

Our initial conception of the space started in a much different place than where it ended! The apartment was generous in size but it was compartmentalized. We decided to raze three walls to provide a more open layout between the kitchen and the main living space. 

Our architect came up with the idea of an infinity soapstone dual sink that I absolutely loved when I saw the drawing.

Because we took down several walls, a support shaft was added and on our architect’s recommendation, we brought in two wooden columns to support the beam. Not only was it practical, but it gave the apartment a loft-like feel—a pleasant and unintentional consequence.

In the beginning, we thought we would have a white kitchen with shaker cabinets and a subway tile backsplash, but as we got deeper into the process, we were drawn to Scandinavian minimalism. The vendors we used for the kitchen cabinets and floors both sourced their wood from Sweden, so it helped in accomplishing that aesthetic. Function was also a winner: we love our garbage disposal in the sink. 

We moved the laundry room walls three times before we settled on its permanent home in a newly-built closet in the hallway! It turned out to be an excellent location for the washer and dryer. 

(Above) Master bedroom

WATCH VIDEO:

(Above) Master bath before

(Above) Master bath

A fourth wall—dividing a room formerly used as a housekeeper’s quarters and the master—was knocked down to create a larger master bedroom. Our Sweeten architect drew up an efficient layout that allowed for ample closet space and a larger master bathroom that was pieced together to the last inch. 

The bathrooms proved to be the most difficult with so many options and micro-decisions like the type of doorknobs and the number of lights! The housekeeper’s quarters was used as a storage space and needed a big overhaul to be brought up to speed. After much back and forth, we finally settled on finishes we felt would be unique, efficient, and spa-like. We also decided against having a bathtub in either bathroom and have not regretted that decision one bit. Our boys love taking showers! 

Chevron designs on the bathroom shower floors and the glass panels were custom made for each since we had different needs in each one. Our architect came up with the idea of an infinity soapstone dual sink in the master that I absolutely loved when I saw the drawing. 

Being first-time renovators and homeowners, we found the experience all-consuming but deeply rewarding. We had no qualms about undertaking such a project and would certainly do it again. One takeaway for us was to stay fluid and flexible. We thought we wanted a certain look, but when we found an alternative that we liked, we took the chance and rolled with it. The process was intense at times, but our team kept things chill and on track. We feel great about the space and the experience, and we couldn’t be happier with the support that Sweeten provided.

Thank you, Ylia and André, for sharing your fixer-upper transformation!

LIVING AREA RESOURCE: European wood oak flooring: Madera.

LIVING ROOM RESOURCES: Maverick fan with Koa blades: Monte Carlo.

KITCHEN RESOURCE: Surface cabinets by Norm Architects in sawn Smoked Oak; cabinet hardware: Reform. Oak shelving: Custom by general contractor. Sub-Zero refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher: Gringers. Gaggenau ovens and induction cooktop: Gaggenau. Honed Perla Santa Quartzite countertop: HG Stones. Essence Linear Suspension light fixture: LBL. Prep pulldown faucet: Waterstone.  Herman Miller bar stools: Design Within Reach.

MASTER BATHROOM RESOURCES: California Faucets Descano Knurled faucet; Descanso Thermostatic Knurled shower fixtures and jets in satin nickel, Duravit wall-hung toilet: Ferguson. Infinity soapstone sink in Stormy Black: M. Teixeira Soapstone. Vanity cabinet doors; cabinet pull: Semihandmade. Classic Rounds Titanium backsplash; Delegate off-white 24 x 24 wall and floor porcelain tiles: Artistic Tile. Light fixtures and towel hooks: Schoolhouse. Gerber flush Plate: Decor Planet. Shower panel: Bravura Glass. 

GUEST BATHROOM RESOURCES: Tamalpais faucet in matte black; shower fixtures in matte black: California Faucets. Teak sink shelf counter: Built by general contractor. Delegate light grey 24×24 wall and floor porcelain tiles: Artistic Tile. Duravit wall-hung toilets: Ferguson. Gerber flush plate, Krauss white ceramic sink: Decor Planet. Shower panel: Bravura Glass. Baldwin doorknobs, #PSCONCSR112 in Venetian Bronze: Baldwin. 

HALLWAY RESOURCE: Sconces and lighting: Restoration Hardware. Bosch washer and dryer: Bosch.

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Set your calendar. Here’s a guide on how long it will take for an apartment renovation.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post Why This Renovating Couple Stayed Open and Flexible appeared first on Sweeten.

• Homeowners: Tina, a fashion designer, and Andrew, a cybersecurity consultant, posted their project on Sweeten
• Where: Sunnyside, Queens in New York City
• Primary renovation: A full-apartment renovation in a 1930s co-op building
• With: Sweeten general contractor
• Homeowner’s quote: “After interviewing nearly ten lackluster contractors, we discovered Sweeten and signed up immediately. Their contractors were a godsend, very professional, and responsive.”

Guest blog post by homeowners Tina and Andrew. “After” photos by Pixy Interiors. 

A home search is serendipitous

We were living in a one-bedroom apartment on the third floor for almost a year when an opportunity came knocking. Tina’s father, who used to be the superintendent in the building, heard about this apartment through the grapevine. The two-bedroom, one-bath with an eat-in kitchen on the ground floor had been occupied by the same owner for decades. The apartment hadn’t yet been listed, so we didn’t know what to expect. As we eagerly walked in, it became clear that it needed a lot of TLC.

Its dimensions were a little over 900 square feet. We saw plenty of potential, but the original layout was partitioned and closed-off. The dated 1970s finishes and dark saturated colors throughout made the space feel extremely dark and cavernous. It was certainly a fixer-upper, but we agreed it was worth taking on and jumped in feet first.

A successful general contractor match

Living in the same building, we could easily visit the space for measurements, planning, and the actual renovation. Enter Sweeten. After interviewing nearly ten lackluster contractors, we discovered Sweeten and signed up immediately. Their contractors were a godsend, very professional, and responsive. We got an estimate the same day when others would take days or just ghost us completely. And they took the time to answer all our questions and negotiate prices before they were even hired. Choosing a contractor was probably one of the most stressful and time-consuming parts of the renovation process.

Planning a coastal look

Our vision was to make the space airy, bright, and modern while still complementing the building’s prewar style. Tina, a designer by trade, used her skills to sketch layouts, create mood boards, and research finishes. French bistros, Vermont farmhouses, and Hampton beach bungalows were inspirations. The apartment was grounded in light neutrals with navy blue and oak wood accents for a coastal look. We loved the clean lines and texture of the shiplap, board and batten, and exposed brick. Touches of brass and Carrara marble helped warm up and elevate the space.

With limited natural light on the ground floor, some walls were removed to allow light to flow through the space. To brighten the space further, we doused every surface with white paint and installed French doors to all the bedrooms. The carpets were removed to reveal the original 1930s hardwood floors. To our relief, the parquet still had plenty of life left in them. We went with a clear matte finish to give it a natural look and feel.

More natural light in the living room

The windows in the living room and spare room were recessed nearly a foot into the wall which blocked a lot of light from coming in. Exposing the brick on these walls would open things up. Our contractor built beautiful custom window frames to finish the windows off. We used a natural limestone paint to whitewash the brick for an aged look.

Bounce your wildest ideas off of the professionals; that is what they are there for.

A kitchen opens up—partially

We took the plunge and opened up half the kitchen into what would become the living room—the brightest space in the apartment. It also gave back a nice chunk of square footage previously wasted with an awkwardly-curved wall. A small linen closet was removed to fit a large countertop between the kitchen and living room.

As a family that loves to entertain and cook together, we wanted a functional space with a lot of storage. Because kitchens take up a large portion of a renovation budget, we tried to be clever and save where we could. Instead of custom cabinets, we went with Ikea but purchased the cabinet doors from a company that specializes in stylish and modern cabinetry for Ikea kitchen systems.

We love the look of marble, so we used it on the backsplash instead of the countertop. Marble tiles are more affordable than a marble slab (and a lot less maintenance). All of our state-of-the-art appliances were purchased at an outlet in Long Island where appliances were like-new floor samples. If you have the time and patience to hunt for deals, it can really save you a lot in the long run. We did splurge on the “jewelry” of the kitchen—the faucet and cabinet hardware. These little details make a huge difference.

Details make a difference

The bedroom with two large closets became the master bedroom. Two closets were combined into one big walk-in closet. We painted the room white and added board and batten paneling on one wall for dimension. The double french doors our contractor installed (also in the spare room) were our favorite part of the room. It gave the space a grand look and let so much natural light come through.

The bathroom was on the smaller side and didn’t see a need to sacrifice any space to expand it. We included some fun touches, like a brass light fixture (plus dimmer switch) and a vintage-style exposed shower body. The extra-wide medicine cabinet and custom-built vanity helped make efficient use of limited storage.

Experiencing the renovation process

Our contractor and his team deserve a lot of credit for their hard work and patience with us. Everybody should know that these jobs are never simple. Scheduling can get tricky.

Being detail-oriented and working with a contractor you can communicate with were really important to us. Our Sweeten contractor had no problem emailing back and forth about even the smallest detail. Bounce your wildest ideas off of the professionals; that is what they are there for.

One thing we would caution is the amount of work, if any, you decide to take on yourself. To keep the budget under control we decided to paint and do some other finishes ourselves. We saved thousands of dollars but doing all that work when we both have full-time jobs was exhausting.

Our new home really feels like a dream come true, and we feel very fortunate to call it our own. It was no cakewalk, but we had a blast every step of the way. Coming after work and seeing the progress made was so exciting. The hope and promise of creating a space all your own, to us, is what renovations are all about. We hope our fellow renovators find it as rewarding of an experience as we did.

Thank you, Tina and Andrew, for sharing how your new home came together!

Renovation Materials

KITCHEN RESOURCES: Kitchen cabinets: Super matte shaker cabinets in white and light grey: Semihandmade. Massey cabinet pulls: Rejuvenation. Classic 1 ¼” pulls: House of Antique Hardware. Honed quartz in Smithtown: CitiQuartz. Carrara Venato marbled honed subway tiles 4”x8”: The Builder Depot. Rohl C-sput bridge faucet with sidespray in Polished Nickel: Rohl. Fireclay sink: Alfi. KitchenAid refrigerator and stove: KitchenAid. Bosch dishwasher: Bosch. Thomas O’Brien Eugene pendant lighting: Circa Lighting. Bar stools: Vintage.

BATHROOM RESOURCES: 3” Carrara hexagon marble floor; 3”x6” subway tile walls: Home Depot. Vanity hardware: Rejuvenation. Oxford thermostatic shower fixtures: Signature Hardware. Vanity/sink: Custom. Vanity paint in Hale Navy #HC-154: Benjamin Moore. Faucet: Barber Wilsons. Kohler Corbelle toilet: Kohler. Thomas O’Brien Vendome triple scone in Antique Brass and Sienna small-flush mount overhead light in Chrome: Circa Lighting. Cerridale medicine cabinet: Wayfair.  

LIVING AND DINING ROOM RESOURCES: Leighton pendant light fixture: Room and Board. Wall paint in Chantilly Lace, #OC-65: Benjamin Moore. Brick limewash interior/exterior paint in Avorio White: Romabio. Olde Bricke Lighting glass dome sconces in Matte Brass: Etsy. 

MASTER BEDROOM RESOURCES: Mia faceted crystal pendant overhead light: Pottery Barn. Cylinder accent table lamp and Imbrie articulating sconce: Rejuvenation. Wall paint in Chantilly Lace, #OC-65: Benjamin Moore. Shade: The Shade Store.  Ceiling light pendant (outside in hallway): West Elm.

SPARE ROOM RESOURCES: Overhead light: Luna pendant rod in Natural Brass: Schoolhouse. Desk light: West Elm. Wall paint in Chantilly Lace, #OC-65: Benjamin Moore. Brick limewash interior/exterior paint in Avorio White: Romabio.

A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post A Ground Floor Co-op in Sunnyside Finds Its Light appeared first on Sweeten.

Project: Renovation of a Flushing kitchen for accessibility and openness 

Before: After years of living with roommates, the renters saved up to buy a place of their own: a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment in Flushing, Queens. As new homeowners who finally had the option to make their mark on a space, they decided to renovate the kitchen. It was cramped and inefficient for cooking, with unusable corner cabinets and appliances that were too close together. The couple hired an architect, Jumi Song, who sketched out a few ideas based on their planned use of the space. “They also had a Pinterest page of design items they liked, and I used that as a reference for how to select finishes—they wanted a modern feel with a muted palette,” Jumi shared. She posted the project to Sweeten on behalf of her clients and was matched with a general contractor to bring the plans to life.

After: The architect planned to turn the U-shaped kitchen into an L-shaped cook space with an island. To gain more space and give more separation between the master bedroom and kitchen, the contractor built a two-foot extension wall. The stove and sink stayed in their original location, but the refrigerator and dishwasher moved to an adjacent wall, directly across from the island, to establish a more efficient flow.

The renovators chose a mix of neutrals, from light wood-grain cabinets to a black quartz countertop. The cabinetry bases are all from Ikea and outfitted with doors from Semihandmade for a more customized result.

Their architect worked directly with the Sweeten contractor and was onsite to answer any questions or concerns that cropped up. Plus, they had weekly progress meetings to ensure the project was moving along smoothly and per the design the architect put together.

The first-time renovators and homeowners biggest concern overall was about budget, but they stayed on track and the final number was within their price range.

“The space is much more open and inviting. I’ve never been one to hang out in the kitchen, but now I want to spend more time here,” one homeowner shared. 

Bonus: The renovators’ advice: “Know when to stand your ground regarding your vision, and when to compromise due to unforeseen conditions or budget restraints.”

Style finds: Floor in Veranda Solids porcelain tile in Fog; Quartz slab countertops in Broadway Black; Glass mosaic tile in Green Parade: Daltile. Base cabinets and undercabinet lighting: Ikea. Impression Slabs in Sonoma finish and black stainless steel round cabinet pulls: Semihandmade. Sink: Zuhne. Faucet: Moen. Refrigerator: GEappliances. Dishwasher: Bosch. Stove: Samsung. Williston Forge pendant lighting: AllModern.

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Get the lowdown on kitchen renovation costs in New York City.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten. 

The post Converting a U-Shaped Kitchen into an L-Shape appeared first on Sweeten.

The post My Sweeten Story: A Tudor-style Home Begins a New Chapter appeared first on Sweeten.

The post This 44-Square-Foot Clinton Hill Kitchen is Simply Grand appeared first on Sweeten.

• Homeowners: A young couple posted their Queens co-op remodel on Sweeten.
• Where: Northeast Queens, NY
• Primary renovation: Renovating their kitchen and bathroom to have more room
• Sweeten general contractor
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Guest post by Sweeten homeowner Gloria

These homeowners needed their own space

When my husband and I got married, my father generously offered us one of their spare bedrooms for nothing more than covering our share of the utilities and cleaning the entire property. My parents kept to themselves mostly, but even so, after six years of cleaning up after them and sharing common spaces, we had had enough.

We had a sizeable down payment due to some fortunate events, enough for a house, but with my husband starting his own business, we decided to buy an affordable co-op and hoped for one that was move-in ready. To our dismay, we quickly found out that co-ops in Northeast Queens were either outdated or renovated in a way that we found ugly and gaudy (think McMansion but inside a co-op). Eventually, we bought a two-bedroom for a reasonable price that hadn’t been updated since it was built in the ’50s, which meant we would have to nearly gut the entire place.

Asking for recommendations from friends and family for contractors only led to horror stories about shoddy work, condescending attitudes, cheap materials, a lack of knowledge, and poor communication. We contacted eight contractors total and three of them were from Sweeten. Because Sweeten has an entire system for communicating with contractors, the process was so much smoother. Each one visited the site and gave us an itemized quote within the week and promptly answered our questions. It was actually difficult to choose, but in the end, we went with the contractor that we felt the most comfortable talking to since all the quotes were similar.

Finding a contractor is hardwork

As for the other five contractors, those experiences became their own horror stories from just meeting with them and getting quotes. The worst was one contractor who gave us a two-hour window for when he would show up, arrived in the last five minutes, talked on the phone the entire time, did not follow up with a quote, would not give an itemized quote when I followed up, and called a week later saying he vaguely remembered talking to me and was wondering if I still needed a quote. Well, I didn’t.

The renovations started almost immediately once we picked our contractor. Together, my husband and I selected and bought all the finishing materials. Garden-style co-ops tend to be small, so we picked light colors to make the rooms feel spacious and bright. The color theme continued in the form of off-white kitchen cabinets, light-colored tiles in the bathroom, and soft gray walls with white ceilings for most of the rooms. We also really like highly contrasting design, so the accents we chose were typically dark, such as the bathroom hardware, doorknobs, and most of the flooring. Gold accents were only used in the kitchen because I love the look of white kitchens with touches of gold.

This Queens co-op remodel allows for a more spacious kitchen

We decided early on to have kitchen cabinets that extended to the ceiling for the extra storage because we both love to cook and the existing built-in storage was limited. I also added another wall of cabinets, which includes a full-sized pantry. We will eventually install a vented range hood above the stove, and I wanted to keep the countertops as clutter-free as possible, so I hid the microwave in the pantry. We also opted for a single drawer dishwasher because we found a full-sized unit to be excessive for just two people. The dishwasher serves as our drying rack while the extra drawer under the dishwasher is extra storage.

A bathroom that is easy to clean

As for the bathroom, we went with the typical tub and shower curtain instead of a sliding glass door because it feels more open, and for us, it is easier to clean. We chose the floating sink cabinet for similar reasons. The floor tiles are in a herringbone pattern to give it a more interesting look. Since the space is small, it was not that much more expensive to do and is one of the most eye-catching parts of the bathroom. The same floor tile was used in the shower nook where we keep our soaps so the tub ledge is clutter-free. The mirrored medicine cabinet also hides a lot of our toiletries and is deceptively large; we had most of it buried into the wall so it would not stick out too far.

One snag was the full-sized drawers under the sink. The plumbing needed to be adjusted to have the drawers fit, but even still, they would not fully close. The contractor cut part of the back of the drawer walls to accommodate the plumbing after I made a very sad face at the idea that they would have to cut the entire drawer down. It’s not the most aesthetically pleasing but it’s not very noticeable and I am very happy I still have full-sized drawers.

Drama during their Queens co-op remodel

Ironically, the renovations were the easy part. We had much more difficulty with our own co-op management, which our contractor helped us navigate. We had to replace the kitchen plumbing because it was too old and leaking behind the wall. This required changing the plumbing on the adjacent units, too, so the co-op office had to coordinate the change between all the owners. As is typical in co-op living, drama ensued and no one cooperated which meant our project was stuck and it was up to us to get all the owners to agree. Our contractor went with us to each unit to explain what would happen even though they were not the ones replacing the plumbing. Magically, we easily got everyone’s agreement once they were told the entire situation.

An even more drama-filled incident was when the co-op started to change all the front doors and windows. We were warned that any damage during the change would be our problem so we asked if we would be able to get them changed during our renovation so that our contractor could immediately fix the damage. The office denied our request and we were ready to resign to our fate, but while complaining to our sympathetic contractor about the situation, he encouraged us to attend the annual meeting to make our case directly to the board. We are very glad we attended because 1) it was very entertaining with all the angry shouting, impassioned pleas, and one instance of a chair being thrown by a board member, and 2) the board granted our request. So we had the door and windows changed and unsurprisingly, it was done poorly and there was damage, which our contractor fixed. As for the drama, that continued for weeks and culminated with citizen notices threatening lawsuits and contacting New York City councilmen.

Overall we had a wonderful experience making this apartment a home for us and our cat! Minus the drama.

Thank you for sharing your thrilling renovation story with us! We hope you and your family love your new home.

KITCHEN RESOURCES: Florida Tile Home Collection in Beautiful Wood Cherry floor tile, #HDE966018X36: Home Depot. Bodbyn cabinets in off-white: Ikea. It pulls and knobs cabinet hardware in French Gold: Atlas Homewares. Ocean Foam countertops, #6141: Caesarstone. Merola Tile Metro Rhombus in glossy white porcelain mosaic tile (backsplash), #FMTRHOGW: Home Depot. Langudden sink, #891.574.84: Ikea. Glacier Bay faucet: Home Depot. Refrigerator: Maytag. Dishwasher: Fisher & Paykel. Range: Samsung.

BATHROOM RESOURCES: Style Selections Woods French Gray Wood Porcelain Look Floor Tile, #17WO15: Lowe’s. MARAZZI VitaElegante Bianco Porcelain Wall Tile, #ULRS1224HD1PR: Home Depot. Godmorgon vanity and Odensvik sink, #791.865.85: Ikea. Lillangen medicine cabinet, #402.407.91: Ikea. Shower fixtures and toilet: Kohler.

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Check out the Best of Queens: Renovating in the Borough for nearby remodeling projects.

Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor. 

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post A Reno Finds the Light at the End of the Tunnel appeared first on Sweeten.

Sarah and Craig, along with their two shelter pets, Willie (the cat) and Quincy (the dog), had lived in a rather tiny 700-square-foot Manhattan apartment for four years. When they moved into a modern Long Island City condo in 2013, the 1,160-square-foot one-bedroom felt like the Great Plains. “Initially, we were so thrilled to have so much space that we didn’t think about improving it,” said Sarah. Over time, ideas for possible tweaks, refinements, and overall improvements began jumping out at them. Among the wish list: creating a second bedroom, revamping the bathrooms, and harnessing the potential of a few pockets of what seemed like dead space. But the thing that ultimately motivated Sarah and Craig (particularly Craig) was the disproportionately small kitchen sink—a big, white farmhouse sink they had their eye on seemed a much better fit for their large apartment. “We like to joke that our entire renovation started with the kitchen sink,” said Sarah.

Before: living looking into would-be second bedroomAfter: living room looking into the second bedroom

The couple posted their project on Sweeten, a free service that connects homeowners with vetted general contractors, to locate a design-build firm. Rather than get design help from a general contractor or hire a designer and a contractor separately, a design-build firm brings it all together in one organization. “Many contractors claim to offer this when they are really loose associations of separate companies,” said Sarah. “Our Sweeten contractors were a one-stop shop—a true design-build firm under one roof.” The aesthetic Sarah and Craig wanted was what they coined “industrial eclectic.” The goal: preserve the industrial history of Long Island City while adding some of the couple’s own rustic taste.

The kitchen’s dark cabinetry was swapped out for a bright white that, of course, complemented that big, white farmhouse sink. In order to make the kitchen and living room into two distinct areas, the island was extended into something of a casual dining area that was ideal for pre-dinner drinks or a meal for a low-key evening at home. Fortunately for this couple, a washer/dryer unit already existed.

Sarah and Craig’s Sweeten contractors really excelled when it came to maximizing storage space in the kitchen. Their designer installed sliding shelves in the lower kitchen counters “that slide out so we can easily access our pots and pans.” New custom cabinets were also added to the inside of the now-larger kitchen island. Their contractor team also designed and built a tall cabinet separate from the kitchen that became a home for spices along with the couple’s miniature herb garden. One of the highlights of the new design is the bar area. A small nook of dead space fit a wine fridge perfectly, while the wooden carving on the shelf above the racks of wine and beer naturally reads “Cheers.”

Before: master bedroom looking into living room/second bedroom(Above) Second bedroom (Above) Master bedroom

Dividing the large living room into a second bedroom and living area was one of the improvements the couple envisioned. They placed the additional room where they did because of the rectangular shape but didn’t want to block the natural light coming in from the bank of windows. Sliding doors were their solution and their Sweeten contractor went to work designing a custom set. Not only were they able to increase storage space in the bathrooms and kitchen, other areas became additional places to stow stuff. A small closet was added to a newly minted second bedroom, including enough space for a double bike rack, and the master bedroom welcomed a new closet. “Before the project, we were constantly looking for places to stash our clutter,” said Sarah. “Now, everything has a home.”

On to the two bathrooms. The original style was a little bland for the couple’s taste, so they updated with new tiles and fixtures. Rather than the original off-white tiles, they chose a bold pattern that was more fun. The Steampunk-style lights surrounding the mirrors in either bathroom added a rustic feel to the space, as did the distressed finish of the vanities. The toilets became a momentary problem. A rear-outlet toilet was needed because of the plumbing in their building. This meant a smaller selection to choose from. However, the couple’s contractor “searched tirelessly, high and low, to find a rear-outlet toilet that would work in our space and fit our look,” said Sarah.

Overall, Sarah and Craig found that their Sweeten contractors “struck a perfect balance between owning the project and involving us in the creative decision-making process,” said Sarah. “Everything went smoothly once we were connected with our contractor, so we’re happy to report we never had to engage the Sweeten client services team!” A slight hiccup developed when an exterior wall issue was spotted, holding up the project. However, the team worked hard to get back on track and for the entire renovation, the couple was able to rent a studio apartment from someone else in their building. All in all, the renovation took four months. “Without that trust [in our Sweeten’s], the experience would have been much more stressful,” said Sarah.

Thank you for sharing how you’ve made your new apartment into a home, Sarah and Craig.

KITCHEN RESOURCES: Raffia Grey floor tiles: Nemo Tile. Cabinetry: custom by Sweeten contractor. Cabinet hardware, lighting: Restoration Hardware. Sleek Concrete countertops: Caesarstone. Backsplash: Somertile. Fireclay Fira sink: Home Refinement. Faucet: California Faucets. Refrigerator: Samsung. Wine refrigerator: Edgestar. Paint in Graytint: Benjamin Moore. Bar stools: Urban Wood Goods.

BATHROOM RESOURCES: Bathroom tiles: Somertile and Nemo Tile. Hardware, shower fixtures: Waterworks. Sink, mirrors, and lighting: Restoration Hardware. Toilet: Duravit.

LIVING SPACE: Sliding double doors: custom built by Sweeten contractor. Dining room light fixture: Restoration Hardware. Dining table: Urban Wood Goods.

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Custom, oversized sliding doors in Ana and Leo’s apartment allowed them to convert a home office into a guest suite.

Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor. 

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post A Condo Overhaul with Room to Spare appeared first on Sweeten.

Project: Intelligent use of space in a Manhattan kitchen

Before: When Rashmi purchased a one-bedroom co-op on the Upper West Side, she wanted to renovate the kitchen immediately. It was clearly run down, as the original kitchen in a prewar building, but had plenty of unused space and potential. “Once I moved in, I realized I needed to live with the space to understand what I really wanted,” said Rashmi. She gave herself six months—it took four years. At one stage, she even stored her bike in some dead space next to the fridge. She didn’t like the idea of an open kitchen, so knocking down a wall wasn’t an option. The main goal was to simply use the space effectively while flipping a hodgepodge of different whites into something bright.

After: Rashmi had owned a home before, but buying into a co-op was a new experience. She posted her project and found a contractor through Sweeten, a free service that connects homeowners with vetted general contractors. She was having problems getting her package submitted to her co-op board for approval until she found her Sweeten contractor. “My contractor was an invaluable partner, especially during the planning and approval phase with my co-op and the building engineers,” she said. Once work got underway, Rashmi decided to give the kitchen a roomier feel by opting for 18-inch cabinets on one side rather than the standard 24 inch. Adding a washer and dryer was also “life-changing.” A layout geared toward casual entertaining was also important, so she extended the counter right along the wall to include an eat-in perch and two chairs. Rather than go with backsplash tiles, Rashmi chose a semi-gloss paint for ease of cleaning. She picked a bright yet deep blue for the walls that contrasted with gold-toned cabinet hardware.

Bonus: Rashmi worked from home, so her Sweeten contractor and his team were conscious that they were sharing the same workspace. “They worked clean and were as quiet as possible,” she said.

Style finds: Kitchen cabinets: American Woodmark. Omnia cabinet hardware: Simon’s Hardware. Silver Waves Granite countertops: MSI. Faucet: Delta. Liebherr refrigerator: Liebherr. Bosch dishwasher: Bosch. Samsung stove: Samsung. LG washer and dryer: LG. Samsung microwave: Samsung. Lighting: MODCREATIONStudio. Surf Blue paint in semi-gloss: Benjamin Moore. Wicker-style brass wall air duct register: Signature Hardware.

A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

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A coral accent wall adds a splash of personality to this modern kitchen.

Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor. 

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post A Kitchen Turns True Blue appeared first on Sweeten.

If a major kitchen transformation is your wish, going beyond swapping out kitchen cabinets or simply replacing existing features, you’ll want to enlist an architect to make changes to your floor plans. Architects can see potential in the bleakest and most uninspiring places: Where we see darkness, they see spaces capable of being filled with natural light; where we see dead space and awkward cabinetry, they see new configurations and storage solutions. Whether you decide to work with an independent architect and a general contractor to execute your vision, or hire a design and build firm that can provide both architectural and construction services, chances are you won’t recognize your beautiful new kitchen once it’s done. Read on for five Sweeten kitchens that underwent an about-face in the best possible way.

Jerry and Janet’s kitchen in Crown Heights, Brooklyn

Looking to find a fixer-upper that had a “bring your architect” vibe, Jerry and Janet came across a historic rowhouse that needed major work. After finding an architecture firm, as well as a general contractor, on Sweeten, they set their sights on updating the severely outdated home. New electrical, plumbing, and gas heating were installed throughout the rowhouse, followed by the framing of walls to create new floor plans. The kitchen was relocated to connect both the living and dining room, improving the flow of the home. Since the couple likes to cook, the space was laid out to allow ease of movement with plenty of counter space, and gray-toned IKEA cabinetry was installed to maximize storage space.

Joel and Eric’s kitchen in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn

A spacious one-bedroom with loads of potential led Joel and Eric to Sweeten to find a general contractor for their renovation. One of their contractor’s references turned out to be Sweeten homeowners and designers Casey and Kumar in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, who were brought on board to design the new space. The 1920’s-era apartment had a sunken living room, high ceilings, and lots of ornamental details—as well as a kitchen that was too small and dark. Updates to the floor plans were necessary, starting with a plan to connect the living room to the kitchen. Casey came up with the idea for a unified countertop, a piece that would serve as a bridge between the two rooms with a wraparound counter and plenty of storage underneath. The peninsula allowed the kitchen to feel much more open and inviting.

Lia and Chris’ kitchen in Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Lia and Chris came to Sweeten to make over their two-bedroom, top floor unit with high ceilings, tons of light, and spectacular views. They chose to work with a design and build firm to address the outdated, open plan kitchen that looked out to the living room. The result provided more counter and storage space, filled in the odd angles and edges of the ceiling, and hid the fridge for a more streamlined look. By far the most exciting part of the design included opening up the ceiling and exposing building beams in the living room for an industrial look, with the last exposed beam acting as a visual separation between the two spaces.

Sophia and Leon’s kitchen on the Upper West Side, Manhattan

Natural light was not an issue in Sophia and Leon’s three-bedroom apartment—they had three exposures during the day that received a ton of light, but none of it ever made it into the kitchen due to its “bento box” layout. Working with a design and build firm that they found through Sweeten, they took down unnecessary walls that completely cut off the kitchen. The new floor plans included a custom-built, open kitchen between the living room and dining room, allowing light to flow through the entire apartment. Open shelving on one side of the kitchen helped transition the space into the living area with storage for books.

Tina and Fletcher’s kitchen in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn

Not wanting a cookie-cutter apartment, architect Tina was drawn to a two-bedroom garden duplex with high ceilings and 10-foot windows framing the living room, a space that she was excited to customize for her family. With the couple’s first child on the way, any options that would require significant structural, electrical, or plumbing work were eliminated in order to cut down on both the permit approval and construction timelines. Tina completed her architectural drawings before meeting with contractors and decided to work with a Sweeten contractor who proposed an ambitious six-week timeline. Her main goal: to create an open kitchen by removing a floating, non-structural wall that had separated the space from the living room. New cabinets were continued around a corner, transforming the space from a narrow galley into an L-shape complete with a custom kitchen island. Semi-custom cabinets were designed around the existing appliances and maximized storage vertically.

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Working with an existing galley kitchen layout has its challenges, but there are also many benefits that you can take advantage of with smart planning. Learn more about how to make a galley kitchen work for you in Why a Galley Kitchen Rules in Small Spaces.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post 5 Awe-Inspiring Kitchens, Reimagined by Floor Plan Changes appeared first on Sweeten.

The advantages of this couple’s new place were very clear: beamed ceilings and big windows in every room brought lovely natural light throughout the unit, and original hardwood floors lent a relaxed look to the space. The kitchen, visible from the foyer, dining room, and living room, had two gracious windows but was outfitted with miniature appliances, isolated blocks of cabinets, and dark finishes. And while the kitchen and both bathrooms had been treated to some relatively recent updates, this couple saw potential for modern features and additions that would help them get settled. With the closing officially on the books, the couple posted their project on Sweeten, calling for a designer and builder who could help them make the most of the square footage in the kitchen and bathrooms before moving in.

We matched them with a Sweeten design-build firm. Together, they devised a plan to create a more spacious and bright kitchen and newly updated baths with elegant finishes.

The contractors began with the kitchen, gutting the space entirely. The apartment’s oak floors were worn, but the telltale parquet plank details and inlaid borders were enough to convince the team to leave them in place, restore them, and extend them into the kitchen, replacing the section of pine flooring that had made its way in during a previous renovation.

This design-build firm specializes in custom millwork and brought a signature white shaker look to this couple’s kitchen. They went minimal in the most visible places, limiting full cabinet lines to one wall, adding a bit of open shelving to the windowed wall, and significantly extending base cabinets around the back wall of the dining nook. These design decisions aimed for maximum light and an open feel. They tore out the windowsill just to the left of the dining nook to make way for that additional counter and cabinet space, and finished the full set with contrasting black knobs and sturdy pulls. The old black stone counters were replaced with white and soft gray quartz, blending the new white and black combo seamlessly.

The homeowners were keen on replacing their compact oven and dishwasher with full-size versions, so the pair gained a sleek new Verona gas range with an exhaust hood fashioned with custom oak shelves on either side, stained to match the new floors. A full size Bosch dishwasher took the place of the old, just to the left of the stove and concealed behind coordinating cabinetry panels. The couple chose a large white Kohler farmhouse sink and chrome Moen faucet, situated nicely under the far window.

A new stainless steel double-door fridge is now flanked by custom pantry storage, and the Sweeten contractor pulled the entire update together with a simple beveled white marble backsplash.

Much like the kitchen, the homeowners wanted cosmetic changes to both bathrooms to reveal more of their personal style and taste, favoring neutral colors and patterns and aiming for a brighter, cleaner feel. Nothing too extravagant, too old, or too contemporary.

They decided on simple geometric shapes and a natural palette in both. The master bath received a full gut without changing the footprint. Cloudy square floor tiles were tossed and delicate carrara marble pieces in soft bluish grays went down. The old shower/tub combo was of average height and size and contained very basic hardware. The couple chose a deep cast-iron Soissons Kohler bath with multiple Rohl hardware fixtures in a gorgeous muted polished nickel. A dark wood vanity sink originally stood to the left of the tub but was replaced with a much lighter wood finish with twice the storage space. A chic square mirror with an antiqued bevel stands over it, and new Kohler toilets were added in both bathrooms.

In the powder room, the same cloudy square floor tiles were replaced with a herringbone tile in soft gray and white, while the same square wall tiles were swapped for a subway style in white marble. The homeowners selected a slender dark wood vanity and square white porcelain sink, along with a silhouette mirror trimmed in wood to match.

The general contractors sanded and stained the oak wood floors throughout the rest of the apartment, and in doing so they replaced all of the white shoe molding as well. The walls were stripped and repainted, mostly white or the palest gray-blue found in the new powder room.

Kitchen selects >> cabinets: custom / counters: LG Quartz / backsplash: Tile Bar: Beveled Marble / gas range: Verona / dishwasher: Bosch / fridge: Fisher & Paykel / sink: Kohler / faucet: Moen

Powder room selects >> floors and walls: Tile Bar / toilet: Kohler

Master bath selects >> floors and walls: Tile Bar / tub: Soissons Kohler: Cast Iron / shower hardware: Rohl / toilet: Kohler

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post White Walls and Black Hardware in a Windowed, Pre-War Kitchen appeared first on Sweeten.

Sarah, an Academic Dean for a charter school, and her husband, Oleg, moved into their Prospect Heights one-bed, one-bath co-op knowing they’d eventually want to do something more with their galley kitchen.

The kitchen was walled off to the living room with an entry point at each end. One door opened to the apartment’s foyer and one led to a windowed dining nook with shelving. Red floor tiles set a dark tone for the room and a prior renovation had missed the chance to extend the upper line of cabinetry toward the ceiling. Finishes aside, the extra dining space provided a few possibilities for new use. Opening the kitchen to the living room would create new bar seating and free Sarah and Oleg to re-purpose the dining nook as a small study. “One day…” was the thinking on the need for a nursery, so they decided to post their project on Sweeten and we matched them with Sweeten Expert Niki, who brought close to twenty years of residential and commercial design experience.

Niki and her team helped Sarah and Oleg get started with plans to update the kitchen, maximize space, and bring modern style and white finishes to the new open-concept living room. Cabinets and counters came down to make way for the wall removal between the kitchen and living room. With the kitchen newly open, the team began relocating appliances to create a more convenient U-shape, with a dining bar peninsula serving as a partition between the two rooms. The sink stayed in place but the stove found a new home at one end of the kitchen, while a new stainless steel fridge bookends the other. Niki installed deep storage cabinets and electrical outlets in the knee space of the island, utilizing every square inch necessary for purpose and function.

Sarah and Oleg chose rows of light gray tile planks reminiscent of pale slate to line the kitchen floors, taking the place of the former brick-colored square tiles. Sarah knew she wanted finishes that were modern yet classic, and white cabinets topped the list. Niki specializes in crafting custom wood cabinetry, so she put these skills to good use for the couple, building and installing base and upper cabinets in clean white with crisp nickel knobs and drawer pulls.

The couple chose a muted gray quartz for the counters, and a stainless undermount sink with chrome faucet replaced the old set-up. Niki customized open shelving directly over the sink to offset cabinet uniformity, give easy access to everyday pieces, and give the kitchen a little more visual depth. The couple chose white subway tiles for their new backsplash, which reflect a bright glow thanks to under-cabinet lighting.

Sarah and Oleg prioritized room for a double oven from LG and compensated for space with a counter-depth french door Whirlpool fridge. A Whirlpool dishwasher rounded out the new appliances, and in keeping with the theme of “twos”, Niki installed a pair of glass pendants over the bar top, which accessorize the new space beautifully.

As for the bonus room fashioned out of the former dining nook, Sarah and Oleg were more than pleased to find the new space fit not one but two cribs, perfect for new twin sisters, Ava and Sophie.

This gorgeous new space doesn’t let on that during the renovation process, a leak from a neighboring unit required extra work for the crew. Sarah reports that Niki and her team were completely flexible and took on the additional projects: finishing floors, repainting rooms, redoing molding and drywall, all to make sure the entire space came together. We’re so glad to hear this team made it all happen!

Kitchen selects >> cabinets: Custom / counters: gray quartz / sink and faucet: Kohler / double oven: LG / fridge: Whirlpool / dishwasher: Whirlpool / pendants and hardware: Home Depot

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post A New Kitchen Makes Way for Two New Arrivals! appeared first on Sweeten.