A custom home remodeling architect helps you for the one inevitability of life: change. How? We’re glad you asked…
A custom home remodeling architect is someone that can help you rearrange your living space so it is a better fit. For example, let’s say you have children that have grown up and moved out. The spare bedroom can be remodeled into an office, or maybe a home gym. Or, maybe on the other hand, what if you’re a small family that is about to get bigger. You’re going to need another bedroom, and maybe another bathroom too. Maybe you have all the room you need, but you want to renovate your home into a luxury showplace.
Because of the training that an architect receives, they are well versed in aesthetics. Simple rearranging a few light sources, and using them cunningly can totally transform a home from drab to dazzling in just a short period of time. Even something as subtle as installing a skylight can make a room into a showpiece.
When you find an architect to remodel your home, communication is key. Look at all of those home makeover shows where the architect is given carte blanche to remodel someone’s home, and the homeowners have a smile that looks like a grimace at the end result. Your input should always be welcome, and your tastes should definitely be a deciding factor. Your architect should understand that when you say you want to redecorate, and you love Art Deco, that a craftsman cottage will not meet your needs. Or, let’s say you want a luxury sitting room, and instead you get a tiny living room that looks like it belongs in a ranch style home circa 1955.
Remodeling your home is a morale booster. It is one of those projects that when completed will make your home an elegant complement to your life. So know your tastes, remember that when in doubt, earth tones go with almost everything, and above all else, get the right custom home remodeling architect for your project.
Design Line Architects, LLC offers custom home remodeling design. Give us a call today and let us show you how we can help your home to be so much more.
Design Line Architects, LLC
470 East Canyon Creek Court
Gilbert, AZ 85295
(480) 710-3861
CONTACT US
Hiring an architect for a home remodeling project seems to be an unnecessary expense. But this article except from houselogic.com shows some clear advantages to hiring a professional:
The bigger the remodeling job and the more valuable the house, the more you need a professional. “Any time you’re changing the exterior of the building, making significant alterations to the floor plan inside, or spending more than 5% of the value of the house, you want an architect,” says Stamford, Conn., construction manager William Harke.
Both architects and contractors can save you money through the creative use of space and materials. But the two professionals often solve problems differently. In a nutshell:
Contractors typically look for an efficient and logical solution, but not necessarily the most innovative or aesthetically pleasing approach.
Architects typically propose solutions that add visual appeal, and complement and flow into the rest of the house.
To red more of this article, please visit the source article here.
Be aware that not every project requires that you hire an architect. Something simple like painting, electrical, drywall etc., are all the realms of a contractor. However, remodeling jobs that require you to get building permits such as home additions are the realm of a licensed architecture firm.
However, it isn’t just home additions that require permits, or the skilled hand of an architect. Sometimes, home remodeling requires that you get in touch with a pro.
Let’s say you want to add some natural lighting to your family room. You go to your local home improvement center, and buy a whole bunch of glass bricks and some mortar and caulking. You’re all set. Except, that you are looking at putting the glass bricks in a load bearing corner. Without meaning to, you could damage the structural integrity of your house, or if you live in Mesa, you may get in trouble with the city if you’re not careful. You would do better by calling in an architect instead, as they can easily determine where it is safe to put your new glass brick wall while keeping your house’s structure intact.
Design Line Architects, LLC is a Gilbert-based architecture firm.
Design Line Architects, LLC
470 East Canyon Creek Court
Gilbert, AZ 85295
(480) 710-3861
http://www.designlinearchitects.com
Design Line Architects, LLC is an Arizona based architecture firm.
Design Line Architects, LLC
470 East Canyon Creek Court
Gilbert, AZ 85295
(480) 710-3861
Home Remodeling
Written By Doug Rusk, Architect
When Dawn, a San Francisco Pharmacist, decided to move closer to her grandkids in Chandler, she found an amazing home that was more than what the doctor ordered. But despite this home’s idyllic location in an exclusive gated Arizona community, Dawn knew that her first move was to renovate her dark, out dated Master Bathroom.
Using a trusted referral for a reputable, licensed contractor, Dawn called Ken from Behrmann Home Basics (BHB) to start work immediately. Ken knew that a quick hand sketch would help Dawn visualize a few alternate ideas for her Master Bath Remodel. So he brought in Gilbert Architect Doug Rusk from DESIGNLine Architects to help Dawn make sense of the many design choices available.
With her casual / contemporary styling preference and a flexible budget in mind, Dawn’s main requirement was to remove the Master Bath Tub in order to make room for a large walk-in shower. Below are pictures of the original Master Bathroom, showing the dated tub/shower combination and two small windows over the vanity.

Although Doug’s first sketches of Option’s 1 & 2 worked reasonably well (shown above), it was Option #3 (shown below) that Dawn immediately knew was the Master Bathroom renovation she wanted.

In addition to removing the Master Bath Tub in order to make room for a large walk-in shower, Dawn wanted the mirrors on the closet doors replaced with a wood paneled door in her Master Bathroom Remodel. She also wanted an electric hair dryer available to grab at a moment’s notice from one of the drawers under the sink that was already plugged in (SHOWN ABOVE). For the borders over the shower and the vanity splash, we used colorful glass tile.
Below are pictures taken during the construction phase, showing the framing, plumbing and electrical work inside the walls. During the short construction phase, the BHB construction team did an amazing job of installing plastic walls with zippers to seal off the construction zone from the main home.

Doug Rusk is the principal at DESIGNLine Architects, LLC located in Gilbert, Arizona. We specialize in residential design and commercial remodeling for small and medium sized businesses with expertise in space planning and interior design consulting. We’ll provide your General Contractor a thorough preliminary design packages that will enable an early construction cost estimate to confirm your budget quickly.
Doug Rusk, Architect
DesignLine Architects, LLC
Gilbert, Arizona
480-710-3861
www.designlinearchitects.com
The key to successful home remodeling is taking the time up front for proper planning. It’s in the best interest of ALL homeowner’s to consider the four steps below, BEFORE signing a construction contract. Early planning is important for an enjoyable remodeling experience, because it will flush out problems early and set expectations that will prepare you for the road ahead.

You might be a homeowner whose family needs are changing, or maybe you’ve lived in your home for a while and just need a change.
You can complete each piece of your master plan as you can afford them, knowing that each piece has been designed to fit together.


A contract is needed to set the rules and the terms of your home remodel. It’s very important to write down ALL your project goals up front and include them in the written contract with your architect and contractor.
It’s easy to jump ahead without thoroughly planning out your home renovation. Improper planning will result in impulsive decisions and choices that might cost extra either in labor or materials. If you take the extra time required to follow these four steps in the beginning, you will take control of your home renovation, and really enjoy the results.
An architect will help you avoid many common mistakes that are made with construction projects. And no matter what kind of space you need today, we’ll make sure it’s designed for your needs in the future. This will give you future function built into today’s addition. To set up a home remodeling appointment contact Doug Rusk at 480-710-3861 or email us at drusk@designlinearchitects.com.
Doug Rusk, Architect
DesignLine Architects, LLC
www.designlinearchitects.com

BEFORE you begin your Scottsdale home remodel project, there are a few important steps to take now, that will prevent surprises later – surprises that might significantly affect your project budget and time schedule. The detailed steps below will give you an idea of the some of the upfront research needed BEFORE starting your home remodel in Scottsdale. Working with an expert such as an Architect will help you navigate this important process.
Home remodeling is about change, and major changes to an existing Scottsdale home may be subject to rules and restrictions set by state and local building authorities as well as the legal rights of your neighbors. Review your Codes, Covenants and Regulations (CC&R’s) you agreed to comply with when you moved into your neighborhood.
Every Scottsdale home Parcel has Zoning Ordinance and Building Setback requirements and restrictions , including distances that buildings/ structures must be “set back” from the property line. Setback requirements for your home will vary depending upon the zoning district (i.e. R1-190, R1-7, etc). Submit a Setback Request to the City of Scottsdale to determine the development standards for your property. This will help you determine where you can build on the lot, the lot coverage restrictions (if applicable) and wall/fence restrictions. Looking for the APN# of your parcel? Go to www.Maricopa.gov and select GIS Maps.
If you are improving or adding 25% or more of the existing structure (under roof area), then fire sprinklers must be installed through out the entire Scottsdale home, including enclosed, non-heated storage, garage, etc. Here’s a link to Scottsdale’s Fire Sprinkler worksheet. For approximate sprinkler installation costs figure between $1.50 – $3.00 per square foot under roof, depending on complexity.
If you are improving or adding 50% or more of the existing structure (under roof area), then the entire structure must be brought up to all current Building Code standards. For work that is less than 50%, only the new work you are completing on your home must comply with current codes.
5. Will you need a Building Permit?There are four types of Scottsdale building permits:
6. You may NOT need a Building PermitWhile most home improvement projects in Scottsdale require a permit (which helps ensure safety standards), there are some projects that do NOT require a residential building permit:
For a fee schedule, refer to www.scottsdaleaz.gov/onestopshop and select “Fees” Or you can contact the One Stop Shop at (480) 312-2500.
Looking for plan submittal information for major or minor remodels built in Scottsdale, AZ, then click here.
A Scottsdale architect will help you avoid many common mistakes that are made with construction projects. No matter what kind of space you need today, we’ll make sure it’s designed for your needs in the future. This will give you future function built into today’s home addition. To set up an appointment contact Doug Rusk at 480-710-3861 or email us at drusk@designlinearchitects.com.
Doug Rusk, Architect
DesignLine Architects, LLC
Gilbert, Arizona
Can your front yard be transformed into Private Outdoor Living? Can the garage or bedroom you’re using today be tomorrow’s organized Home Office? Is an In-Law Suite needed because of your changing life style? We can help you use some simple “architectural design strategies” for your next home renovation that will evolve as your lifestyle changes.
“Architectural design strategies” will be used by your Architect to transform your home into a functional and beautiful space for you now, yet has the designed-in flexibility to allow new uses as your lifestyle moves forward. The next generation home remodels made by homeowners today are typically smarter, more efficient and more focused on good living, rather than designed merely to impress, according to a recent AIA article. The goal is to work with your floor plan and make better use your existing space. The promise is you can live more fully in your existing house, if you plan ahead and use the architectural services of a good Architect.
DESIGNLine Architects, LLC has identified three Architectural design strategies we’d like to share with anyone who is considering a modification to their floor plan.
Curb Appeal. The first thing homebuyers, family and friends will look at when they visit your home is your front yard, the color of your home, the landscaping, and the walkways. You only have one chance to make a first impression.
Relationship of Inside to Outside. Consider aligning the elements of the Outdoor and Indoor Kitchen. This will simplify the plumbing and electrical connections.
Consider the View. What is your view from each outdoor space? You most likely cannot alter the view, but you can maximize a good one, or minimize a bad one. Also consider views of key plants from inside.
Functionality and Beauty. Herb planters are an easy way to add beauty and functionality to the space. Well positioned low voltage yard lights, colorful outdoor candles, and lanterns add a sense of festivity, and light up the more remote corners of the yard.
Music sets the Mood. A set of outdoor speakers can be used alone or as part of a larger entertainment system. A small fountain in the background lends some soft water sounds to the rest of the yard.
Consider Location Carefully. Size and location are two main factors to address when adding a Home Office. Consider how many people will use your office space. Will you have client meetings?
Small Space Design. The corner of a room is probably the most effective way to re-design your floor plan to have an office with minimal cost or disruption.
Private Location. Consider a quiet, out of the way location for your Home Office like the attic, basement or enclosed porch.
As people live longer and healthier lives, more families are finding it beneficial to provide a special space for aging parents by combining households.
Before Starting Remodel. Open and honest discussion with your parent and other family members is an essential first step before remodeling. This will help define the areas you need to change.
Safety and Comfort. Universal design or ADA-compliant living is one in which the occupant can use everything in the home safely without assistance. Floor plan design features may include one-story living, no-step entryways, wide doorways, extra floor space, floors and bathroom features with no-slip surfaces, improved lighting and details such as lever door handles.
Think Creatively. In addition to a bedroom, bathroom and closets, the In-Law Suite could include a kitchenette, laundry, living and dining area. You could renovate the floor plan of a garage, bedroom, attic, office, basement, back porch, even a barn or freestanding cottage on your property. Consider the help of an Architect to check the local zoning ordinances first before designing the house plans.
Ask your Architect to draw a 3-dimensional hand-sketch that will allow you to visualize your architectural design ideas. It will also help your contractor prepare an early cost estimate to verify your budget goals.
Doug Rusk
DesignLine Architects, LLC
Gilbert, Arizona
www.designlinearchitects.com

You’ve lived in your existing Phoenix home for many years and its served you well. But for some time now you’ve realized that your needs have changed – maybe most of the kids are on their own, or a family member needs to move in, or maybe it’s just time to update your home. Here are a few things to consider, if you are planning a remodel or new home design:
* Improve on what you already have. Yes, your life is always in motion, but sometimes small changes to your home design can have a big impact.
* Write a list of all your household activities. The intent is to identify the way you live now and the way you’ll live in the future.
* Identify the big design ideas early on. Ask your architect to draw a few conceptual 3D sketches of your space. These quick sketches are a great starting point to convert your words and thoughts into visual pictures.
* Don’t rush to finish the design process. Let the ideas develop and evolve over time. There WILL be a point when you will KNOW in your gut that your Phoenix new home design is complete. Only then will we move to the finishing details.
Where do we find and how do we incorporate the emotional qualities we want most in our Phoenix new home design? Draw on the past to establish your feelings of home, and then incorporate them into your current lifestyle and needs.
* Childhood memories often contain vivid images and emotions that trigger feelings of joy and peacefulness. As young people, we were more receptive to the simple pleasures of living.
* Perhaps the home you grew up in had a window seat just big enough for you and all your dolls or toy soldiers. Maybe you remember your kitchen table was close enough to your mother at the stove so that you could hear her softly humming over the sounds and aroma of sizzling bacon? Did your grandma live down a long tree lined road in a white farmhouse with a large wrapping porch, where you remember the fragrance of orange blossoms?
* It may surprise you to find that these nostalgic memories are at the center of your preferred design taste and desires. Bringing these memories into a creative remodel or new home design process may assist you in making your space feel more like home.

No doubt that your architect will help bring these nostalgic memories and new home design goals to the surface. But the following questions are designed to help stimulate your thoughts on what feels most like home to you.
* From other homes you’ve visited, what elements most appeal to you?
* What feelings do you want to have as you drive up the driveway or walk up to you new home? Be specific.
* What is most important to you in a new home or remodel?
* Pleasant memories are helpful to your architect. Think back to your favorite indoor childhood spaces. Which rooms were most memorable?
- Why did you enjoys those rooms?
– How did those rooms make you feel?
These are only a few of the questions your architect will ask in order to gain an understanding of your ideas of home, your lifestyle and how you and he will incorporate them into your Phoenix new home design or remodel that fits the way you live now, and in the future.
Doug Rusk
DesignLine Architects, LLC
Gilbert, Arizona
www.designlinearchitects.com
If you are planning home remodel, don’t forget – no matter the scale and size of your project, it is usually sensible to break up your home redesign into small, individual tasks for each and every room. Take your master bathroom as an illustration; whether you are looking to create a setting of personal indulgence OR a practical, cost efficient improvement, here are some ways to help to improve your returns.
Generating a dimensioned floor plan drawing of your home remodel is always a good option, but also ask your Architect to draw a quick hand sketch that may help you visualize how each of the little details of your residential remodel fit together. 3-dimensional sketch of your home renovation can help you visualize your design ideas. It will also help your contractor whip up an early cost estimate to verify your budget goals.

- Get very creative when organizing all your hygiene products. The sketch on the left illustrates a built-in niche in the top of the cabinet centered between two vanity sinks. This is a replacement for a medicine cabinet and may allow easy accessibility to your products and quick, easy clean up.
- Add bathroom cabinets, drawers, shelves and even carts to keep necessary items.
- There should be at least one place to hang your towels and bathrobe that’s not more than 12 inches from the shower.
Master Bath Sketch 3
You may stay slightly warmer while showering if you consider reducing your 12′-0″ bathroom ceiling. A few things to re view with your architect include:
- Adding some architectural elements like arches, soffits and columns similar to those shown in your sketch on the left.
- Large soaking tubs, once popular, have fallen from popularity. Instead, people are choosing custom showers, including overhead shower heads, hand-held shower heads, safety grab bars, body sprays and steam showers.
- If space is a concern inside of your master bath, think about a residential remodel that can expand it in almost any direction possible. Extra sq footage will open up your cramped bathroom and improve the possibilities.
- Try enhancing the daylight into your master bathroom making use of sun-tube or skylight.
Don’t forget, after you perform a high end house renovation for your bathroom, it is possible to make back approximately 57.2% in the remodel cost if you resell, based on the 2010 – 2011 Cost vs. Value Report.
Doug Rusk, Architect
DesignLine Architects, LLC
Gilbert, Arizona
www.designlinearchitects.com

You may be considering a remodel or add-on to your current home, because you just need a few changes or some more space. Home remodeling takes planning, time and money. The process of getting a building permit only adds to the time and expense. So you ask yourself – do I really need a permit for this? I know it is temping to think this way, but here are a few things you may want to consider.
A building permit signifies that your building meets local city, county and state building construction laws and is a safe structure. Building permits protect everyone against unsafe buildings. SAFE is the word that should get your attention here.
To save time and money you may think you can skip this step. Outlined below are a few reasons to illustrate why obtaining a building permit may actually SAVE you money:
- Non-permitted work might not be done correctly or to code.
Just because a homeowner hires a contractor doesn’t mean the contractor will do the job correctly. There are several ways to do any project, but not all of them are smart choices.
- Homeowner’s insurance might not cover a defect for non-permitted remodeling.
If a remodel was done incorrectly, you may end up with faulty wiring which could cause a fire. The damage caused by that fire might not be covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy, if the improvement was finished without a permit.
- City might require you to tear it out.
City code often requires that framing be inspected by the City prior to hanging drywall. Things may have to be torn out to be inspected after the fact. More time and money will be wasted.
- City might assess penalties.
There may be fines and penalties for failure to obtain a permit.
- A home appraiser might not include an addition in the square footage.
Without a building permit the County will not be notified of the improvements and added floor area. This may cause the home to appraise for less, and potentially affect a refinance loan for you or a loan for a potential buyer.
The City of Phoenix has “cut the red tape” for obtaining building permits. If you’re planning a minor Commercial or Residential remodel, there is a special program in place at the City of Phoenix that will greatly REDUCE the Permit and Plan Review approval process. Not all construction projects will qualify for what is called a “Permit By Inspector” option, so call 602-262-7811 to review your projects scope of work.
Each City or Town may have different building permit rules and guidelines you will need to follow. Here are some general guidelines:

- Moving a sink- requires the proper extension of plumbing.
For more details you can review these links for the Cities of: Phoenix, Tempe, Gilbert, Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale.
You may need to hire an architect who will not only draw up construction plans for your design that meet your jurisdiction’s building codes, but can also provide design ideas that you may not have even considered. An architect will help you avoid many common mistakes that are made with construction projects. He can submit the plans to the local municipality for you. Fees and timing of building permit approval vary depending on your project scope.
Doug Rusk, Architect
DesignLine Architects, LLC
Gilbert, Arizona
www.designlinearchitects.com