Get matched with top residential design pros in Wrangell, AK

Dated bedrooms usually share a few similarities— popcorn ceilings, tired-looking carpet, a lack of natural light, and drab paint colors. If there is any exposed wood, like a built-in closet, those will need to be refinished or painted over. Most bedrooms can be modernized with new hardwood flooring, bright but neutral paint, increased window size, and recessed lighting.

A garage counts toward the official square footage of a house if it is considered livable space. For a garage to qualify, it typically needs to be attached to the home and have permanent finishings like proper insulation, finished walls, and ceilings. It must also be livable year-round, which requires adequate heating, cooling, and ventilation. The exact legal requirements for what constitutes living space can vary by location.

Yes, open floor plans can be more expensive to build than non-open floor plans. The primary reason is the need for additional structural support to ensure stability, which can increase construction costs. Additionally, open floor plans need powerful HVAC systems to maintain temperature in a wider space. Finally, open floor plans need more flooring to cover a large area. If you are buying a home with an open floor plan, you won’t see dramatic price differences compared to a home with more rooms.

A certified kitchen designer (or CKD) is a certification given by the National Kitchen and Bath Association. These designers have completed the necessary hours of training and education to specialize in kitchens, and therefore understand the wide variety of project needs (like plumbing, electrical, appliances, and more). Most pros will make their certifications known on their website, but you can also ask during your search for a local kitchen designer.