A Long Distance Remodel – Austin to Vancouver WA

Remote remodeling

We recently completed a whole-house remodel project for a two-time previous client.  This time around it was a bit different.  They had relocated to Austin, Texas for a few years and had decided to come back to Vancouver WA.  They found a home in their old East Vancouver neighborhood and were eager to make some substantial changes to it prior to moving in.  The catch?  They bought the home sight unseen and would be living 2000 miles away during the planning and remodeling process.

The Challenges

Remodeling is inherently visual.  On a typical remodel we meet with our clients regularly while designing, planning and during construction, making it easier to ask questions and solve problems while everyone is looking at the same thing.  We didn’t have that luxury on this remodel.  Instead, we relied on digital photos and email to make up for the distance.  We’re quite comfortable communicating this way, as is our client.  A great example was the design of what could be considered the key element to the whole project- the fireplace wall.  Chris was able to sketch his ideas and email them to our client.  A quick phone call to discuss the details was all that was needed to pin down the particulars.

An early fireplace built-in concept sketch by Chris

Finished fireplace

Planning

Many emails, sketches and photos went back and forth as we pinned down the details.  Selections were made at national suppliers or online to make ordering materials as seamless as possible.  Just like any project- as decisions are made we document them in the project specifications.  When the scope of work and budget were finalized we signed the construction contract, built the schedule, and got to work.

During Construction

Even with careful pre-planning, there are bound to be ‘game time decisions’ that have to be made.  That’s remodeling!  There are always surprises and potential for misunderstandings.  Anytime there was a decision required on a detail, we simply emailed a photo or sketch along with suggestions for what would work best.  Our clients were awesome about quickly replying and making timely decisions.

Stained or natural barn wood mantle? Definitely stained!

Finishing Up

After a couple months work, the project was complete and our clients got to see it for the first time.  They were ecstatic with the result!  They moved in shortly after completion and we’re happy to report that two months later they’re still thrilled with their remodel!