Cate Conti Design

Designer Wear for Designers in the Time of COVID 19!? HA! Well, it's better than nothing, but don't look too closely at my roots! Best Wishes Everyone. STAY SAFE!

Here's a FUN project for a dear client with whom I've worked for over 20 years! It's not completely finished, but you get the idea... We COMPLETELY re-arranged and renovated the entire First Floor- all but a Full Bath that we'd redesigned some years ago. The Dining Room- now a bright warm space-is where a dark Sitting Room used to be-and includes a big beautiful Fireplace.. The Kitchen-with a long and lean Island is where the old Kitchen and Dining Room used to be (yes, it was very small,) The Living Room -with a raised ceiling and a brand new Fireplace-is now where a damp old enclosed porch used to be, and the new Laundry Room with Utility/Mudroom capabilities is behind that. Voila! A cheerful and 100% functional solution to a difficult space!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS Everyone and an AMAZING NEW YEAR Filled with Beauty and Kindness!

HOW TO STAY HAPPY, and KEEP YOUR CONTRACTOR HAPPY, DURING CONSTRUCTION:
1. NAIL DOWN AND DOCUMENT AS MANY DECISIONS AS POSSIBLE: Before demolition begins nail down and document as many firm decisions on materials and specifications as possible. Start with the biggest “blobs” of color (very technical term) -the floors and cabinetry, then the countertops, hardware etc.
2. SIGN the CONTRACT: Your chosen Contractor can now fine tune the budget based on the Final Plans and your selections, and will generate an official Contract for you to sign. This helps prevent misunderstandings on both sides.
3. MAKE VERY FEW OR NO CHANGES ONCE CONSTRUCTION BEGINS: Save yourself and the Contractor the huge stress and potential delay caused by unnecessary changes. There may still be a few critical decisions or minor changes to be made, but if you’ve done your homework these should be minimal.
4. SET UP A TEMPORARY KITCHEN: If your projects includes a Kitchen remodel do yourself a favor and set up a temporary work space wherever possible with a microwave and the Refrigerator, and running water if possible. It’s only fun washing the dishes in the bathtub for about one night. You’re going to be eating out a lot, but if you plan ahead at least you’ll be able to make coffee, breakfast, lunch and snacks.
5. SHOW YOUR WORKMEN/WOMEN SOME LOVE: Offering drinks, and even snacks, goes a looong way towards building good-will with the skilled craftsmen who will be creating your beautiful new space-even if they don’t take you up on it! Years ago, when I had to have the roof replaced on my first home, I was terrified of the Roofers, so I killed them with kindness-making brownies and HOT coffee (it was January and they were working outside!) After two days they were my new best friends and were going out of their way to do an excellent job!
6. HAVE FUN! By now everything should be running smoothly and on-time so open a bottle of wine and enjoy!