Your Extreme (but feasible) Home Makeover

My husband and I want to upgrade our master suite: knock down some walls, add a walk-in closet, create a huge master bathroom that actually has a window, etc. You know, the type of things you see on "Extreme Makeover, Home Edition" — minus Ty Pennington, the free labor, the free furniture, the fabulous vacation, and all the cameras.

While we want to make these massive changes someday, we don't have the skill or the guts (not to mention the funds) to do this massive remodel. Plus our home is only 3 years old... we should probably get some wear out of it before doing something that drastic.

But did you know that just adding a coat of paint can also be considered a remodel?

"Remodel (v. or n.) — changing an existing space into a new form or adding on to a space"

Good examples of bathroom remodels that I found on the internet

Remodels can be as simple as updating wall/floor/ceiling treatments, new lighting fixtures, refinishing cabinets, etc, or as complex as adding an additional floor, converting your garage into a den, or even creating an entirely new master suite :) The former can make just as extreme of a difference as the latter. Remodels aren't just for the professional contractors!

And that means that our master bedroom project was a remodel, as well as our family tree accent wall.

You may also hear the word "renovation" thrown around.

"Renovation (n.) — returning a home to a previous condition, without changing the space"

Think of old homes that people buy for the purpose of making it livable again in the modern day...

AFTER
(click here to see the full before and after shots... again this was not done by me)

BEFORE

Renovations typically requires a lot of time, money, and careful planning. They should not be confused with "restoration"...

"Restoration (n.) — returning a structure to its original condition"

Restorations usually require the use of authentic materials, designs, and colors as when the home was originally built.

So go ahead! Use the technical terms. When you are painting your room, you now have the right to claim that you're remodeling and creating your own extreme (but feasible) home makeover!

Next up, the remodel of our master bathroom. All walls will remain in tact, but the appearance will change dramatically.

{Rashida}

PS: This educational PSA has been brought to you by Inside the Frame (via my Principles of Interior Design class).