Doing major renovations and looking for a ton of recommendations....

So instead of selling, like we originally planned, we decided to cash in on some of the equity and blow the house out. We are adding 3 BRs, 2baths,a finished basement, and completely gutting themain floor (kit, DR, Den, LR).

So I am basically going to need everything. We are interested in a "green" build as much as possible, and the top of that list is solar shingles in the roof, so we need someone for that. Also, the kitchen has us completely stumped. I have no idea how to shop for cabinetry or countertops....so ay help there would be great too.

TIA for any experiences/recommendations.

Re: Doing major renovations and looking for a ton of recommendations....

I just doubled the size of my house, (added basement, 3 BRs, one bath, LR and office) and added 8100 watts of solar panels on my roof. I also went very green with the majority of what we did. We're doing the kitchen next year. I'm sure I can give you plenty of guidance.

Here's my blog:

http://shawn-addition.blogspot.com/

Do you have an architect yet? Do you have a rough idea of the layout? Have you filed any paperwork with the town yet?

Re: Doing major renovations and looking for a ton of recommendations....

Wow...how exciting!! (And just to warn you, a little stressful...you're having a new little one soon too, right? When my ds#2 was born, we bought the house and are totally renovating it...so my advice, be as patient as possible, and try not to stress....I HONESTLY was dreaming of appliances...i swear to you.)

Anyway, as far as kitchens, I have been doing sooo much research...I know all the different types of cabinets, and have been to sooo many places. I feel like I could totally sell cabinets now! (and funny thing is, we STILL haven't decided who to go with )

Anyway, IKEA has something you can download and design your own kitchen....you do have to use their cabinets, and they don't have everything (like no corner sink cabinet) but I liked that I could play around with it, and get an idea for myself.

GOOD LUCK!!!

Message edited 2/23/2009 8:51:47 AM.

Re: Doing major renovations and looking for a ton of recommendations....

Shawn, you rock. We do have an architect and we approved the final drafts last week. He is actually filing the paperwork with the town today. We were very careful to NOT need a variance on anything, since I am due in 2 days and do not want to hold up construction.

want2b,...I will check out IKEA. 3 other people have recommended them so far....

Re: Doing major renovations and looking for a ton of recommendations....

I sent you a FM

Re: Doing major renovations and looking for a ton of recommendations....

That is awesome! The only recommendation I can give is Home Depot, we used them for our kitchen cabinets and have nothing but great things to say. Good luck!!