Eight Small Details that Made a Huge Difference in my Remodel

A substantial remodel can completely change the look and feel of a home. With a lengthy project it can feel like one big decision after another, but don’t overlook or underestimate small details that can make a tremendous difference. Recently we worked with a client on a back-porch remodel that was chock full of little details.

Now that their renovation is complete, our client shared with us eight small details that made a huge difference to their remodel:

1. Porch Ceiling: I chose to paint the porch ceiling a gentle blue color, partly because it’s a Southern tradition, but also because it matches my living room walls just inside. The color matching conveys a feeling of seamlessness between the indoor and outdoor areas, making the porch seem like an extension of my living room.
   
2. Window Trim: In place of sidelights, I chose to put two skinny double-hung windows on either side of my patio door. When they installed the windows, they put a raised panel below the windowsill offering me a deep ledge and a beautiful decorative accent on the wall. My contractor also made custom plinth blocks to match the rest of the trim.
   
3. Ceiling Fans: I chose to install contemporary fans in my otherwise traditional home. They’re beautiful, but also a statement piece. Similar to the blue paint color, I chose to have my inside and outside fans match. This supports the feeling of continuity between the indoor and outdoor living spaces.
   
4. Patio Door: In order to maximize my space and to allow for a flat threshold, I chose an outswing patio door. I couldn’t have a screen door, but the outswing allowed me more flexibility with my interior design. Plus, the doors lay flat outside when they’re open, so they don’t take up porch space.
   
5. Interior Wood: I chose a dark interior wood color for my windows and doors. The contrast is striking and really makes the beauty of the doors and windows stand out. If I’d chosen white, the doors would have blandly faded into the wall.
   
6. Hardware: For my patio doors, I wanted to choose a dark hardware that wouldn’t show dirt as these doors will get a lot of use. I decided to go with an oil-rubbed bronze. An oil-rubbed bronze finish can turn, particularly in the sunlight, but since this patio door is in the shade, it was a great choice.
   
7. Mismatch: Throughout my remodel, I’ve chosen windows of varying sizes, shapes, and heights. I never wanted all of the windows in my house to match. The windows and the patio door don’t line up perfectly, and I’m happy with that. I think the end result is eclectic and charming.
   
8. Flashing: I’ve always loved the look of copper, and I’ve always wanted copper gutters. When the doors and windows were installed, I decided to get copper flashing above the patio door and patio gable window. This is a small detail that you might not notice at first glance, but it helps tie everything together and makes the space feel complete.
   

There you have it! Eight small details made a huge difference to the final product. Curious in reading more about this remodel? Check out our case study by clicking here.

Learn more about this project from the contractor, Todd Stengel, in this video!

From advising you on the swing of your patio door to ordering custom double hung windows that fit just perfectly in your space, Door Store and Windows can help your home remodel come to life. To get started on the project of your dreams, give us a call at (502) 822-5424 today!