With all of the new residential construction taking place in Chicago, I am often called upon to help buyers plan the living spaces and make choices for finishes in their new houses and condos.
Planning furniture placement and choosing finishes for new construction ( e.g., countertops, carpet, flooring and plumbing fixtures ) can be somewhat inhibiting and taxing. The process of selecting can take several hours and leave the buyer drained!
Use my '12-Point Checklist' of things to consider when you make these choices, and your task will be much easier:
1 ) Visualize and plan for your furniture and processions in the new space. Take the necessary measurements yourself and don't rely on general dimensions given in the brochures.
2 ) Continuity is a big factor for successful selections. Consider your decorating style and choose cabinetry, plumbing fixtures and other items with this in mind.
3 ) Speaking of continuity, remember to coordinate cabinets, flooring, hardware and other selections to create a smoothly flowing space.
4 ) Choose white or neutral colors for bath floors, tiles and countertops.
5 ) Remember that granite and marble samples give only a general color guideline of the final product. The final pieces installed in your space can and will vary greatly from these samples.
6 ) Never choose a porous material such as limestone for a countertop or floor. This material has to be maintained with special sealers and cleaning agents. Even with sealers, it stains very easily.
7 ) Choose one carpet color throughout the living space—preferably something neutral and durable.
8 ) If budget is a consideration for a carpeting upgrade, make the most of a less costly carpet by choosing the best padding.
9 ) Pay attention to the windows. Think of how you will use them and what types of treatments will be possible ( or impossible ) .
10 ) Most builders will finish your space with white walls. If you have an option or decide to bring in your own painter after construction, pay attention to the flow of colors from room to room. Variations on one color is usually a good bet.
11 ) Consider how all of your choices of finishes will look in 2, 5 or 10 years.
12 ) If you are not planning on staying in the space more than a few years, think in terms of resale appeal when you make the selections. Stay away from choices that are trendy or that make a very individual statement.
With a some homework and planning, the process of creating your new living space doesn't have to be agonizing and can actually be fun!
Of course, if it's all just too much for you, call a decorator!
Please e-mail you question to jos.riceinteriors@att.net . In the subject box, fill in 'WCT Design.'
Joseph Rice offers full decorating services, and specializes in hard-to-treat windows. See www.josephriceinteriors.com, e-mail jos.riceinteriors@att.net or call 773-271-2361.