The CKD Blog
Where Sarah, and sometimes Steve, share design projects, renovation advice, and other project-related insights.
Biggest Regrets Homeowners Have After a DIY Renovation
89% of Americans said that they attempted a home improvement project during the pandemic. However, how many of these projects ended in success? Fewer than you might think...
Designer By Your Side: How It Works & What to Expect
Renovating a kitchen or bathroom? Having a contractor asking for your design selections… but you don’t have them or even know where to start? Then this might be for you…
How to Choose Beautiful & Cohesive Hardware for Your Home
Did you know that your hardware choices can make or break a room? It’s true. Hardware seems like such a small detail, but it’s one that is important to get right. It helps bring your whole design together and create interest in your space. Here’s how…
The 1940s Fixer Upper: Changing up the Floor Plan
Today, I’m sharing our process for creating a floor plan, along with the specific updates we will be making to create a family-friendly home…
How to Select the Perfect Pendants for Any Space in Your Home
Adding pendant lighting to your home is a great way to create a focal point in a room. It also helps define a space (especially if you have multiple “rooms” within an open concept floor plan) and pumps up the style of the space by adding extra light, texture, or pops of color…
The 1940s Fixer Upper: What Demo Day Looks Like in Real Life
Wondering what Demo Day looks like in real life? Grab your safety goggles, and come take a look...
What Happens During a Design Consultation (& Why Every Renovation Needs One)
When we initially meet with a client about a renovation project, they are full of excitement and ideas. Many have their tablet or phone ready to share ideas from Pinterest or other online resources. Steve and I smile and look at the ideas, and then we apply the brake. Let’s start with a plan. This is your design consultation.
The 1940s Fixer Upper: Creating the Design Plan
Since we are renovating this home for resale, ideally to a lovely young family, the strategy behind the design is different than it would be if we were renovating it for ourselves or for a client. That said, I still want to WOW people who see the final result… and I know that can be done with some thought and planning.
5 Brilliant Neutral Paint Colors That Will Beautify Your Home
I’ve created an edited, comprehensive list of the neutral paint colors that I’ve used in my own homes as well as in the houses of my valued clients. You truly can’t go wrong with any of my top 5…
We've Done It Again... Come Meet Our Newest Fixer-Upper!
It isn’t often that you have the chance to purchase a 70+ year old home from the original owners, but we were blessed with such an opportunity. Filled with history, well-loved by many, and in need of our help, this home captured our hearts the moment we saw it. Ready to see what we’ve gotten ourselves into this time?
How to Select the Perfect Backsplash for Your Kitchen
Last month, we talked about backsplash qualities, investments, and maintenance levels, about style longevity, and about some ways to get creative with your backsplash. Today, I want to take it a step further and help you select THE perfect backsplash for your kitchen. It starts and ends with these 3 steps…
How to Renovate Your Rental Property for Profitability
Renovating your rental property has several long-term benefits for you. It can allow you to increase your nightly rates and rental profitability. Today, I’m sharing several tips for updating your rental while keeping your ROI in mind. But first…