| Author | Content |
BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 22, 2006
08:40 AM Post #1992801
| The Journey has begun. Construction began this past Tuesday, January 16th. Gretchen & I started planning this last summer, and really got down to business in October, when we started getting bids from GC's.
Trying to find a GC in a booming home market, that's also sending a lot of resources to hurricane damged communities, was something we were unprepaired for. After calling 10 GC's, We had 7 appointments...5 show up...3 bids...and we accepted 1. Throw in that each of these that showed up, had their own electricians and plumbers come out seperately as well. All in all, there were close to 20 seperate appts., over a 5 week period, before we finally got the bids.
Never having done this before, we learned quickly that a designers plans and concept, are not enough to get a firm bid. They were all over the place. We quickly found out why, when we sat down with each of the contractors. Each one had different ideas for windows, doors, tubs, lighting, fixtures, etc. Total for windows and doors ranged from $3000 - $12000. Bathtubs from $800 - $5000. etc, etc, etc. Back to the drawing board in a sense. We then decided that we would go with labor and rough materials bids, and we would provide all fixtures. This brought the bids more in line, and gave us the flexibility to adjust our fixtures to our budget, and go higher on the things that were important to us, and lower on the minor things.
After checking references, we chose our contractor. We went over the contract carefully, as our designer informed us that "Change Orders" can break a budget quickly, and there's very little wiggle room in this budget.
The 1st step was to clear out that section of the house. It was like moving all over again. After moving in a year and a half ago, and then moving Gretchen 7 months ago, neither of us were looking forward to this part. This is where the pictures will begin. Please don't mind the mess. It's going to get a lot messier before it's done.
Chris
First picture: Looking from the kitchen, across the dining area, into the living room. The railing area will be walled in 2/3rds of the way in with double french door entry, and glass above the wall. This mirrors the opposite side of the kitchen
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 22, 2006
08:44 AM Post #1992807
| The rock wall is coming down. The window is being replaced by double doors leading to a pergola. The book shelf and wall are coming down, combining this room with the master bedroom on the other side of that wall. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 22, 2006
08:45 AM Post #1992808
| This slider will be replaced by 4 functioning casement windows. They will be in line with the 4 fixed windows above. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 22, 2006
08:46 AM Post #1992809
| A look back towards the dining area. That's where the wall is going, with the glass above it.
This message was edited Jan 22, 2006 9:01 AM
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 22, 2006
08:48 AM Post #1992810
| Entrance to the current master bedroom. The door on the left is the "his" bathroom. The door on the right is the "hers" bathroom. You'll see shortly how this house must have been built by or for a woman, as the guy definately gets the short end of the stick, bathroom wise. We're going to level the playing field. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 22, 2006
08:49 AM Post #1992811
| A walk in closet will be centered on this window. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 22, 2006
08:50 AM Post #1992814
| THe old closet, on the opposite wall of the book shelf. Again, this whole wall is coming out 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 22, 2006
08:51 AM Post #1992816
| The "his" bathroom. Small shower, toilet, sink, close enough to take care of all your morning rituals, without having to move. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 22, 2006
08:53 AM Post #1992819
| Hers: Sunken Tub, Large Vanity, Toilet, and Large closet. I should have taken more pictures to show the size of it. Oh well, too late now, as the carnage has begun. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 22, 2006
08:55 AM Post #1992823
| Court yard view. Both of these sliders are being replaced by 4 casement windows. This will give a more defined "entrance" 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 22, 2006
08:56 AM Post #1992827
| Another view showing more of the right side slider, and a portion of the entrance that will be replaced during another phase, and last picture of the "before". Next up? This weeks destruction. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 26, 2006
01:16 PM Post #2001889
| End of week 1 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 26, 2006
01:18 PM Post #2001891
| End of week 1 part 2 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
January 26, 2006
01:18 PM Post #2001892
| End of Week 1 part 3 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Happy_1
Fort Lauderdale, FL
(Zone 10b)
February 23, 2006
01:35 PM Post #2065956
| WOW, this is some construction. More please...
Hap |
BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
February 23, 2006
11:20 PM Post #2067100
| We had some set backs, with some windows that were mis-orderes, but do have some framing pics.
This is where the new fireplace framing is. Smooth wall going above. Much cleaner look
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
February 23, 2006
11:21 PM Post #2067103
| The center window is where the french doors leading to the pergola and hot tub are going. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
February 23, 2006
11:22 PM Post #2067105
| Looking at the walk in in closet, with the water closet/bidet combo will be. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
February 23, 2006
11:23 PM Post #2067107
| The frame for the new tub 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
February 23, 2006
11:24 PM Post #2067109
| Wall of the water closet to the left, and opening of the shower to the right. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
February 23, 2006
11:25 PM Post #2067110
| Looking in through the "door" of the walk in closet, seeing the fireplace on the other side.
With the window delay, we're still looking at Aprilish completion.
Blahh,
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Happy_1
Fort Lauderdale, FL
(Zone 10b)
February 24, 2006
10:29 AM Post #2067602
| Neato...
Have you ever considered a large window or window wall around your tub. In our master bath, we have slidingg glass door that open into our garden, which is fenced so there is plenty of privacy. It's neat taking a bath and looking at our garden and birds.
Hap |
BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
February 24, 2006
04:34 PM Post #2068555
| One of those walls faces the road, so that's out. :-)
We were going to do a larger picture window with a 2 way mirror, but costs were getting out of hand. :-( This is the first time Gretceh nor I have gone the GC route, and it's been quite a learning experience. We'll have our ducks in a row on the next go around. |
Dea
Frederick, MD
(Zone 6a)
February 24, 2006
04:46 PM Post #2068584
| Great job and yes, being your own GC is scary and fun at the same time :) You sure have gotten a lot accomplished in not too many weeks !!
Dea
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darius
So.Appalachian Mtns, VA
(Zone 5b)
February 24, 2006
06:05 PM Post #2068792
| Good show Chris! |
BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
February 24, 2006
06:50 PM Post #2068894
| Thanks Darius. Please tell Molly I said hello.
It looks like we'll have a bit of delay on windows and some plumbing fixtures. We're providing these, and the plumbing stuff is on hold from the manufacturer, and Home Depot goofed on the windows. We still hop to have it finished within the next 6 weeks.
The electrician and dry wallers are working this weekend, so hopefully an opportunity for another update will present itself. |
Lilypon
Moose Jaw, SK
(Zone 3b)
March 26, 2006
06:05 PM Post #2140897
| We want updates! :) |
BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
March 28, 2006
06:26 PM Post #2145969
| Per the Canuck's request. :-)
Not nearly as far along as I'd like naturally.
From the future foyer, looking at the doors going in.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
March 28, 2006
06:28 PM Post #2145974
| What were once sliders, are now casement. THe outside ones swing to the right as you see them in this picture. This will allow for a very nice cross breeze that gets naturally funnelled with the horseshoe shape into the court yard. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
March 28, 2006
06:29 PM Post #2145975
| This wall of the closet is where the bed and nightstands will be. The doors will lead to a private garden, pergola, and spa. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
March 28, 2006
06:30 PM Post #2145977
| Another view of the closet, and now with the hallway. At the end will be the toilet, and a left turn takes you into the master bath, closet entry, and shower entry 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
March 28, 2006
06:31 PM Post #2145982
| This is the right turn at the end of the hall that takes you to the bath. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
March 28, 2006
06:32 PM Post #2145986
| Not much as changed on the tub area :-( 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
March 28, 2006
06:32 PM Post #2145989
| Looking in towards the shower. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
March 28, 2006
06:33 PM Post #2145992
| The walk in closet and the neighbors cat. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
March 28, 2006
06:34 PM Post #2145993
| An interior shot of the closet. Since we're no longer waiting on plumbing parts or windows, things should move quickly in the next few weeks. I hope, I hope, I hope. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Lilypon
Moose Jaw, SK
(Zone 3b)
March 28, 2006
06:46 PM Post #2146016
| ROFLMBO
re:
| Quoted: | | I hope, I hope, I hope. |
;) Dad's house still isn't done (and it's been 2 years).
Looking wonderful Chris (even tho not as far ahead as you would like).
| Quoted: | | The doors will lead to a private garden, pergola, and spa. |
Sounds like heaven...and very, very romantic! :)
This somewhat thawed out Canuck (48 F here now) is gonna have to get down there and visit you two (with clipping shears and an empty suitcase). Ü
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
March 28, 2006
06:59 PM Post #2146047
| You are more than welcome at any time, Pam. We've added a lot of new goodies this year, and are even thinking of taking on Clivias. This of course means that they'll be trialled in the yard. I planted 150 Caladium bulbs last weekend as well as some Costus and Curcuma.
The plumies I got last August will go in the ground shortly as well.
On the remodel, it really was designed as an adult retreat. We wanted to do this part first, so we have a place to escape when we take on the rest of the house. We think the whole thing wil take about 10 years, though. Gretchen of course would like to get it done in 3. HA!!!!! I've held her to a minimum of a year in between ending one major project and starting another. A year should be enough to regain sanity, right?
Chris |
Lilypon
Moose Jaw, SK
(Zone 3b)
March 28, 2006
07:08 PM Post #2146068
|
| Quoted: | | A year should be enough to regain sanity, right? |
LOLOLOL wishing the two of you the bestest & quickest remodel!!!!!!!
re:
| Quoted: | | On the remodel, it really was designed as an adult retreat. We wanted to do this part first, so we have a place to escape when we take on the rest of the house. |
Smart thinking...good to do it early in the marriage too (ya'll are still nice to each other then ;). |
bseddon
Pittsfield,, MA
(Zone 5b)
April 07, 2006
11:59 AM Post #2171398
| Been there, done that (several times) and we're still married (42 years) Looks awesome and the results are usually worth the headaches. We've done every room in our house at least once in the last 32 years and I'd do it again...Only I'd spend the money the first time to get the results I got the 2nd time (make sense?) It's great fun to walk into a room and smile and the walk into the next room and smile. It's OURS, in feeling as well as in fact... Can't wait to see your end result! |
BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2006
09:33 AM Post #2790624
| So close.
All we're waiting on is the electrical finishing. It's been a 9 month nightmare, that's hopefully coming to an end. Unfortunately, the GC isn't returning emails or phone calls.
Next pictures will be of the finished and furnished room, whenever that may be.
Chris
The finished fireplace. The walls aren't nearly as bright as they seem in the picture
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2006
09:35 AM Post #2790630
| Interior entrance, new window, fireplace, and concrete stained floor.
We love the floor. the concrete guy was wonderful. If anyone in Florida sees this, I highly recommend http://www.concretencounters.com They were one of the better experiences of this whole project
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2006
09:36 AM Post #2790633
| Down the hall, exterior of closet, new windows, water closet with barn style door 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2006
09:37 AM Post #2790635
| Turning right down the hall, water closet out of view to the left, closet entrance to the right, soaking tub, and vanity. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2006
09:38 AM Post #2790636
| Turning right into the closet 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2006
09:38 AM Post #2790639
| Looking down the length of the closet 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2006
09:40 AM Post #2790644
| Interior of shower with fixed shower head on left, sprayer on right, shaving sink and fogless mirror just out of the picture on the right. The tiler was another good experience. Great guy that we were sad to see move to GA. We would have hadhim do other projects. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2006
09:41 AM Post #2790649
| Exterior view of shower. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2006
09:42 AM Post #2790654
| Vanity, mirror, and cabinet 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2006
09:43 AM Post #2790660
| Standing in front of the fireplace. the windows open into the courtyard.
That's it for now. Hopefully the finished pictures will be done soon.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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pepper23
KC Metro area, MO
(Zone 5b)
October 06, 2006
08:02 PM Post #2792536
| Niiiccce!!! |
gardenwife
Newark, OH
(Zone 5b)
October 07, 2006
07:32 PM Post #2795000
| Wow, does that concrete floor ever look terrific! When that space is finished, it's going to be a phenomenal retreat for you. |
Starzz
Newcastle, ON
(Zone 5a)
October 07, 2006
08:55 PM Post #2795206
| It looks great!
Love the closet and shower..neat idea to have the shaving sink right in the shower.
The floor is very beautiful...
unique idea having the fireplace with a sunken area in front...but what a long time to wait to have it finished...Whew!
Can't wait to see it all furnished..
Cheers,
Carol |
CissyCat
Phoenix, AZ
December 14, 2006
01:31 AM Post #2997672
| Great job, fabulous floors! My daughter just bought a home in Florida, I'll pass on the link to her in case she decides to do anything with her floors!
Thanks for sharing... |
gardenwife
Newark, OH
(Zone 5b)
December 14, 2006
08:11 AM Post #2997967
| Any updates? I saw this thread pop up to the front and was hoping we'd see more! :D |
BuriedTreasures
Valrico, FL
(Zone 9a)
December 14, 2006
09:09 AM Post #2998118
| I'll try and get some pictures this weekend. It was 90% done and the contractor abandoned the project. We hired in an electrician and trim painter to finish it up, and there's still a few minor touch-ups, but we're at least living over there now, and the house is mostly back to normal.
It's a wonderful living space.
Chris |
