4 minute read
BY DESIGN
Designer shares tips on surviving renovations
WORDS BY LINDSEY ADKISON | PHOTOS BY TAMARA GIBSON
Advertisement
J
Jessica Moore Williams has done a little bit of it all. The interior designer and Golden Isles native has worked on everything from high-end properties in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to designing spaces for the U.S. Navy. phin training pool,” she says with a laugh. After returning to the area four years ago, she started her own company Moore Design. There, she primarily focuses on residential work, although she never shies away from designing commercial spaces.
“I really do anything that people call me to do,” she says. “I’ve done so much in my design career that I never flinch when it comes to any type of project.”
There is one topic that Williams frequently helps address — renovations. From fresh coats of paint to extensive redesigns, she takes pride in walking clients through each step of the process.
“I’ve seen so many people who are doing renovations, especially during the pandemic,” she says. “There’s really been a new design element that was born out of this shutdown. That is this move toward set prices for individual spaces or total home renovation.”
The idea is simple and convenient for all involved. Once a price and project are agreed upon, Williams can offer as much or as little guidance as necessary, most of it being done virtually.
“You can do virtual consultations and digital vision boards, which is something that I’ve always done but has been key recently. Then, the client can use that as the road map. I will share my suggestions for lamps, rugs, sofas, chairs, and then they can shop for the pieces themselves,” she says. “Or I can source those for them. It is about whatever works best for them.”
When it comes to approaching a renovation, Williams has plenty of sage advice to offer. Here are a few key elements to consider when starting a project:
• Take the time to plan: Williams understands that every renovation is different, but what they all have in common is the need to plan. She suggests spending time flipping through magazines, browsing Pinterest, and visiting stores to truly create a vision for a space.
“Before you call in the professionals, think about what you want the renovation to be and how you want the space to function,” she says.
• Dream it up. Moore encourages her clients to pull together sample photos of rooms they love and come to her armed with examples. Even if a specific look won’t fit into the budget, she still suggests “pinning” it. “We can always try to recreate something in a way that will fit into your budget,” she says.
• Budget, budget, budget. In the planning phase, nailing down a realistic budget is critical. Then, she says, all the players have to get onboard with that figure and commit to sticking to it.
“Everyone should know the numbers ... your partner, your contractor, and your designer. That’s how you have success
• Find the perfect fit. Speaking of contractors and designers, it’s crucial to take the time to interview multiple service providers to make sure you’re getting the best fit. “Spend time interviewing those professionals and always get more than one quote. Once you find the professionals that you want to work with, make sure to ask all the questions. “There are no stupid questions,” she says.
“It should be a like talking to your doctor ... you should feel comfortable with them asking those questions. Then, make sure throughout the project that everyone is communicating — your designers, your contractors … everyone. It’s ideal to find people who work well together.”
• Practice patience. Renovations often take a fair amount of time and require one’s home to be in a bit of disarray. Because of that, patience is an absolute must. That’s why Williams stresses the need to really plan and get a firm grasp on the process before officially moving forward. That, she says, will help everything move more seamlessly. “That’s why it’s key to not rush. It is the most important piece,” she says.
Coastal CPAs is at your service, to guide you through the waves
of New Tax Laws, Accounting & Auditing Standards, Fraud Risks and all the rough waters that challenge your financial prosperity. LITIGATION SUPPORT
Love where you live.
When you experience our resident-designed wellness programs, amenities like our happy hour bar, and balconies overlooking the courtyard or golf course, you’ll understand why Thrive at Frederica is senior living at its finest. Whether you’re looking for assisted living or memory care, we strive to build long-lasting relationships with each resident to provide support for their activities of daily living (ADLs). In addition, all of our team members are certified by the National Institute for Dementia Education (NIDE), ensuring top quality memory care. And of course, we’re taking extra precautions to make sure every new resident is brought into the community safely.
Contact us to schedule a tour
Thrive at Frederica
3615 Frederica Road | St. Simons Island, GA 31522 912.295.4699 | ThriveSL.com/Frederica
