Developing Your Plan

What is prompting you to consider the project? Have you have experienced a significant life change like moving to a new home, building a home, downsizing, or combining households? Is there a specific problem you want to fix? Maybe you are doing a lot of remodeling and it’s just time to update things. Whatever the case, we can help you develop your plan and then tackle the project. There are three easy steps to get you started.

Step 1 – Identify Your Problem

Thinking about the specific problem you want to solve is a natural starting point. There may be a single issue or several that you want to address. It’s also helpful to think about things that you’ve come to accept which are less than ideal. Take a fresh look at the space and identify what you really want. Consider the following common problems to determine which are most relevant for you.

Lack of Storage Space

For most homeowners, we have more stuff than places to keep it. And while getting rid of things is on most peoples’ project list, there is also a desire to create more space. Custom storage projects can help you maximize space so you can fit your things. If your goal is better space utilization, a custom storage project is exactly the right approach.

Space is Cluttered and Disorganized

Getting and staying organized is another common challenge. Do you or others in your house have trouble finding your possessions? Do you lack defined spaces for keeping things? A custom storage project will help you create specific places and provide features to help you create order.

Current System Does Not Work For You

Most storage and closet systems don’t work well. The wire systems and builder-grade shelving found in most homes are very basic and don’t provide an adequate solution, so people learn to tolerate them. If you’ve put up with a bare-bones storage system for too long, a custom storage project will give you the function you desire.

Storage System is Not Visually Appealing

As homeowners remodel and update areas of their homes, they realize that their storage areas look outdated and unattractive. Many homes have kitchens, baths and décor with high quality features and finishes, but their closets and storage areas look like they belong in a totally different house. If you want better style and an updated look, a custom storage project will help you achieve your goal.

Step 2 – Create Your Wish List

Determining the features you want is an important step in your planning process. You’ll want to generate a list to ensure you capture all your needs and ideas. Many of these will come to you easily. Make an initial list of things that are on the top of your mind.

You can then build on your initial list by answering the following questions:

What do you like about your current space?
What do you not like about the space?
Are there things you wish you could bring into the space from other rooms?
What things look the most out of place or lack a place (yes shoes sprawling all over the floor are a prime example)?
Where is there open or unused space? What could go in that spot?

Find Inspiration

For many people, getting visual inspiration is the most valuable step. Take a look at examples of other projects to see what’s available and spark your own ideas. In addition to looking at the galleries on this website, take a look at your favorite online sites for more ideas. Check out Pinterest, Instagram and Houzz to get your creative ideas flowing.

Step 3 – Determine Your Project Priorities

Once you are clear on the problem(s) to solve and you’ve completed your Wish List, it’s time to consider your priorities. You’ll want to prioritize your needs in four areas:

Capacity
Function
Aesthetics
Cost

Rank these items from 1 to 4 so you can keep your priorities clear. More importantly, think about the tradeoffs you are willing to make. If you want more capacity, function and high end style, those add costs. If you would rather invest in better function, then maybe the style is less important. If you know your priorities, then you can work more effectively with the designer to come up with your optimal end product.

Plan Your Budget

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Factors	What is it?	Key Elements
Capacity	What types of items need to be stored? How much of each type needs to be stored? How can the system adapt to address changes in needs?	Dimensions – height, width and depth Hanging space Shelving space/# shelves Drawer space Storage features
Function	What do you want to be able to do in the space? What features are available to help you accomplish what you want?	Design features Accessories
Aesthetics	What does the system look like? What are the colors and textures? What is your favored style (traditional, modern, rustic, transitional, etc.)? What additional decorative elements do you desire? How should this space tie in with adjacent spaces?	Colors and finishes Door and drawer styles Decorative hardware Trim Decorative touches (e.g., glass) Lighting
Cost	How much does the solution cost? What options and tradeoffs can help you reduce the cost? Are there enhancements that are worth it for you?	Materials Installation Taxes

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