Originally Posted by turbo6bar (Post 4466453)

I concur with your thoughts, but I will readily admit my goal is resale potential. That said, I want to push the envelope WRT energy efficiency and designed efficiency. Basically, I seek quality space that's energy efficient, while withstanding the test of time--thoughtful combination of durability and aesthetics. There is so much crap being produced today. It can be done better.

Originally Posted by look 171 (Post 4476144)

We do work for designers all the time. I think if you are in the middle of a project, you should keep her and finish it up and never call her again. new designers just means you have re-learn each other and she has to deal with the subs. How much time do you have? I have not read through all the post, how far along are you and what is it that you need the interior designer to do for you that others in the design field can't do for you?

Originally Posted by look 171 (Post 4476147)

problem it that we accept that crap.

Originally Posted by turbo6bar (Post 4476542)

Yeah, that's a tough choice now: retain vs bail now.

The house lacks cabinets, countertops, plumbing fixtures, and trimwork. The only subcontractor left is the plumber. Everything else is done in house by yours truly and partner little brother. Time really isn't a factor. It is being sacrificed for quality and budget.

I feel an interior designer would be helpful selecting the master bath cabinet finish (vanities and numerous built-ins), granite, and window coverings. It's straightforward now, but I figure this is as good a time to test a new designer before starting a new project from scratch. I stubbornly realize you can't control everything, so you need to be surrounded with quality advisers.


Oh man, you are so close that you can taste the finish line. That sort of kitchen and bath design stuff we do for our non high dollor clients all the time. It sound like you really need someone's help with space plannning for that master bath and that big kitchen layout.




problem is my flaw is that of a typical engineer: build the best and it will sell itself. I must find a niche where my work is valued, and more importantly, valued by those who are willing to part with their money. ;) If that takes a little marketing, so be it.

Originally Posted by turbo6bar (Post 4464295)

Been wrapping up things on a residential new construction project. I've been in contact with numerous vendors sourcing the last supplies to get the job finished. Some are really great: helpful employees, competitive pricing, and good product inventory. Others companies are terrible. You'd think with home construction and remodeling in the tank right now, these companies would be eager to get a live one coming through the door.

The other day, I sent an aggressive email to the interior designer protesting the fact she doesn't address all issues handed to her. In essence, she will answer/cover select topics and totally ignore other issues. I suspect she may have gotten in over her head (Interior Design major in college). She was not impressed and decided to hit the road. The search for a new designer begins. Such is life.

Am I too damn picky, or are some folks just clueless? Probably a bit of both. I've found being assertive (not my personality type) gets results sometimes and a kick in the teeth other times.
jurgen

Originally Posted by look 171 (Post 4478333)

A client (buy and flip guy) was having us remodel these tired older homes in West Hollywood (very hip part of LA) and he would turn around and sell them for over $1.5 -2 million. They would be sold within 1-2 weeks max once they would get on the market. Very very molden homes. My example is that the designer wanted to install all high end appliances like Wolf and big Sub Zero ref. I suggest that he save some $$ and buy a Professional grade GE appliances and sell the house and ahta if the buyer doesn't like them, they can change them later. We build the nexr 2 homes with GE and they sold for full pop and just as fast. You an make inexpensive look damn good. People willl part with money if they think its a good product. going back to my example, Viking appliance would be my first choice if I was building high end spec home. Not the best, but everyone thinks they are. Good luck