Category: News

Security and Style: Designing Guardhouses for Maximum Impact

October 28, 2024

For a gated community, estate, or some commercial properties, guardhouses play a very important role. Other than serving as the first line of defense, these gatehouses set the tone for the aesthetic of the overall property. Thus, the million-dollar question: how does one go about successfully designing a guardhouse that balances functionality and security with style? At Varian Construction, we believe guardhouse design should strike a balance between functionality, security, and style. Here are some key factors to consider when creating guardhouses that create a statement without compromising on top-notch security.

1. Intelligent Design with Security as the Number One Consideration

Firstly, every type of guardhouse should provide security, surveillance and access control. This includes the installation of high-level security features like cameras, strong windows, and secure access/egress points. It’s imperative that the space be designed devoid of blind spots. Clear lines of sight around the property are a necessity for security personnel. Guardhouses can also be combined with intelligent technologies such as automated gates, biometric, and intercom systems to provide more efficient entry procedures.

2. Meld Functionality and Comfort

A good guardhouse design should also provide comfort and efficiency for the security personnel. The interior space must be large enough to house all the necessary equipment, such as communication equipment, monitors, and other electronics pertaining to security, while also providing a space to work efficiently. Climate control, comfortable seating, and good lighting provide a sense of comfort during prolonged or overnight shifts.

3. Curb Appeal and Enhanced Property Value


Security remains a priority, but the fact that the gatehouse often is the first structure visitors and residents see, makes it an important component of a property’s overall curb appeal. At Varian Construction, we take pains to ensure integration of the guardhouse design with the property’s overall architectural theme. Whether the aesthetic is modern, traditional, or falls somewhere in between, a gatehouse should reflect the style of the community or business it serves.

4. Sustainable and Durable Materials

With the focus on long life and reduced maintenance, only robust and sustainable materials should be used. Different materials can resist the elements and reduce the carbon footprint on the environment: from reinforced concrete and weather-resistant glass to environmentally friendly finishes. These features meet the construction trends of today with a nod toward resilience and sustainability.

Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction

Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has provided both residential and commercial building and remodeling services for over 30 years. Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your residential and/or commercial space will be built with both quality and care.

Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your renovation projects within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands.

Hire Varian Construction for your renovations; call 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.

3 Benefits of Hiring Professional Remodelers for Single-Family Homes

October 14, 2024

Contemplating a remodel of a single-family home, from the planning and design through the final execution can seem like a daunting task. This is where hiring a professional remodeler such as Varian Construction can make all the difference in the world. The following three reasons should give you a better idea of why working with expert remodelers can your dreams of remodeling into reality.

1. Expertise and Craftsmanship

Professional remodelers have years of experience and a specialty in renovation skills. Whether involving the structure, or simply aesthetics, there is a lot to home remodeling. Getting the job done right the first time through quality craftsmanship and detailed work will ensure your remodel will not only be beautiful, but that it will last for many years to come.

2. Cost-Effective Solutions

Although most DIYs sound like money savers, they often include mistakes, delays, or unforeseen expenses. Professional remodelers budget cost-effective solutions and  purchase the best possible materials for the best prices. Professional remodelers are knowledgeable about building codes and permits, which helps keeps your project within code and on schedule.

3. Efficient Project Management

Remodeling can be complicated when it comes to multi-staged construction and the necessity of having several different trades involved. By hiring a professional remodeler, you can expect one team leader to see the process through to completion. They will handle scheduling, the coordination of contractors, and any troubleshooting problems that arise during the construction process. This level of project management ensures that your remodel will be completed on time with minimum disruption of your daily life.

Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction

Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has provided both residential and commercial building and remodeling services for over 30 years. Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your residential and/or commercial space will be built with both quality and care.

Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your renovation projects within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands.

Hire Varian Construction for your home renovations; call 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.

Remodeling for Accessibility: Making Homes Inclusive for All

September 28, 2024

Accessibility remodeling has become a big priority in home design, with more and more people deciding to age in place comfortably or modify their homes for family members with disabilities. Whether accessibility remodeling is for your own perceived needs in the future or to welcome a loved one into your space, doing so will help make your home safe, functional, and inclusive of every age and ability.

At Varian Construction, we believe every home should be an oasis of comfort and ease for its inhabitants no matter their physical limitations. Here’s how we approach accessibility in home remodeling and the important features that can make your home inclusive to all.

Accessibility Home Remodeling: What Is It?

Accessibility home remodeling involves designing or retrofitting a residence to be usable by people of all abilities. That would include access for those impairments related to mobility, vision, hearing, or cognitive functions, incorporating features that enable safety and independence.

Whether you’re adapting one room or doing a whole-home remodel, there are plenty of ways to make your space more accessible: from wider doorways to smart home technology.

Key Features of an Accessible Remodel

  1. Wider Doorways and Hallways: This tends to be some of the easier modifications that can be made to a home and can have a significant  impact on a home’s accessibility. Hallways and doorways should be wide enough in order to allow passage for a wheelchair or walker. Standard doors are often too narrow for a person using a mobility device and should measure at least 36 inches for passage in and around the home.
  2. Zero-Threshold Shower: Bathrooms are one of the priority areas for remodeling with a focus on accessibility. By removing the barrier of stepping over a threshold into the shower, a zero-threshold or walk-in shower-minimizes the opportunity for falls and facilitates an easier, more independent bath for those with mobility issues. Adding a built-in bench, handheld showerhead, and grab bars further enhances the safety factor and convenience.
  3. Grab Bars and Handrails: Installing grab bars in specific areas, such as bathrooms, hallways, and stairways, provides additional support and balance required in these areas. This relatively simple adjustment can help to prevent falls and give residents or guests an added level of confidence as they navigate their home. Secondarily, it is crucial that staircases have handrails on both sides of the staircase for extra balance.
  4. Adaptive Countertops and Cabinets: Adaptive countertops and drop-down cabinets can be installed in both the kitchen and bathroom for various levels of mobility. Wheelchair users find access quite easy with lower countertops and appliances, while drop-down shelving provides easy access to storage.
  5. Lever Handles and Smart Technology: Replace traditional doorknobs with lever handles, which can be so much easier to turn, especially for those with arthritis or poor hand strength. Adding smart home technology can make all the difference in accessibility. Voice-activated lights, thermostats, and door locks eliminate fumbling over switches and buttons, making life easier.

Universal Design: A Holistic Approach to Accessibility

Whereas accessible remodeling will generally focus on targeted mobility or physical needs, universal design is generally more overall in approach to space functionality from any and every perspective of age, size, and ability. Universal design incorporates elements that provide frictionless accessibility to all individuals without requiring special accommodations. Some of the principles applied in universal design include:

  • Open floor plans that allow for easier flow and navigation of individuals in mobility devices
  • Anti-slip floorings help reduce the risk of falls among any age group
  • Proper lighting can ensure brightness in rooms and make it easier for persons with impaired vision or age-related eye conditions

In Varian Construction, we take universal design to a whole new level for every remodeling we undertake to keep your house both functional and beautiful.

Why Invest in Accessibility Remodeling?

There are plenty of good reasons to invest in an accessibility remodel. For the aging homeowner, such a remodel allows for independence and dignity while remaining in the home they love. For families, it will create an inclusive environment where young children and elderly relatives can equally thrive.

In addition to this personal gain, accessibility remodeling often improves the market value of a home. More and more homeowners are looking to buy homes that are future-proofed for aging in place or already have accessible designs.

Hire an Accessible Remodel Partner – Varian Construction

Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has provided both residential and commercial building and remodeling services for over 30 years. Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your residential and/or commercial space will be built with both quality and care.

Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your renovation projects within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands.

Varian Construction is here to help you design your space from bathroom remodels to whole-home renovations to be safe, functional, and stylish. Our team understands the unique challenges of accessibility remodeling and is committed to creating homes that work for every stage of life.

Hire Varian Construction for your accessible remodels; call 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.

Modern vs. Traditional: Which Style is Right for Your Master Bath Remodel?

September 14, 2024

Of all the decisions that you will make while remodeling your master bath, perhaps the most important is selecting its style. Two of the more popular options are modern and traditional designs; both bear certain characteristics of their own. Your decision will not only affect the aesthetic of the space but its functionality as well.

So, how will you know which style fits best for your remodel? Let’s break down the key features of both modern and traditional bathrooms to find out which one best suits your needs.

Modern Master Baths: Sleek and Streamlined

Modern bathroom design is minimalist and functional, concerned above all else with clean lines, simple forms, and a neutral color palette.  The following are some key elements of modern master baths:

Minimalism: Sleek cabinetry, frameless glass shower doors, and wall-mounted fixtures typify the modern bathroom. The design is literally kept to a minimum to allow for efficiency, comfort, and an uncluttered environment that invites anyone into an open space.

Neutral and Monochromatic Colors: Gray, white, black, and beige tones are really common in bathrooms today. In all honesty, it is the very neutral, monochromatic color palette that really can create a soothing, calm space. Introduce color into the space through the use of pops of color in items such as towels or wall art.

Innovative Fixtures: One of the hallmarks of modern design is its use of innovative and high-tech fixtures. From rain showers to touchless faucets, even heated floors, the modern bathroom often incorporates technology to make the room more comfortable and functional.

Natural Light and Open Space: In modern bathrooms, open space and natural light have ever present. Large windows or skylights are complemented with minimalist window treatments to brighten up and create an airy room. Open shelving and floating vanities add to the design to make it feel even more open.

Traditional Master Baths: Timeless Elegance

Traditional bathroom design exudes warmth and welcoming touches into classic elements with rich detailing. It is ideal for those homeowners that relish timeless elegance. Here’s what defines a traditional master bath:

Ornate Details: Traditional bathrooms often feature ornate details like crown molding, detailed cabinetry, and intricate tile work. These elements lend an air of opulence to the area.

Warm Color Schemes: Unlike most modern bathrooms that use neutral tones, the traditional style incorporates cream, taupe, and soft pastel colors. The colors serve to create warmth, the perfect background for a refreshing bath.

Classic Fixtures: Traditional bathrooms will include fixtures such as clawfoot tubs, pedestal sinks, and faucets with a vintage feel and look to them. Materials utilized are often brass, bronze, or polished chrome, further enhancing the classic ambiance of the room.

Textured and Patterned Elements: Whereas modern design is sleek and smooth, traditional bathrooms love texture and pattern-from marble countertops to mosaic tile floors. Even patterned wallpaper can be an element of the traditional master bath and bring added richness and depth to a design.

Which Style is Right for You?

Your choice between modern and traditional will largely depend on your personal tastes and lifestyle needs. If you prefer a clean, sleek look with emphasis on technology and simplicity, then a modern master bath is right for you. On the other hand, if you lean toward warmth, elegance, and classic design, then a traditional bathroom will give you that timeless beauty you’re after.

For those who really can’t decide, consider merging both styles. Transitional bathrooms are the best of both worlds: offering a modern functionality while paying attention to traditional details. Think sleek lines paired with classic materials, or minimalist fixtures complemented by warm, inviting tones.

Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction

Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has provided both residential and commercial building and remodeling services for over 30 years. Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your residential and/or commercial space will be built with both quality and care.

Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your renovation projects within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands.

Here at Varian Construction, we take pride in designing custom space reflective of our clients. Whether you are feeling modern or going traditional, we can make it happen. From simple updates to full renovations, call 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com today to get started on your master bath remodel.

The Heart of the Home: Kitchen Remodeling with Varian Construction

August 28, 2024

They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where meals are prepared, families gather, and memories are made. With a well-designed kitchen, you add tremendous value to your home, not to mention stepping up its functionality. Specializing in kitchen remodeling, Varian Construction turns your space into a harmonious blend of beauty, efficiency, and modern convenience.

Custom Cabinetry: Maximize Space and Style

Ample storage is definitely one of the top requirements of a functional kitchen. In regard to maximizing space while achieving a sense of style, custom cabinetry can hit the mark. At Varian Construction, we can provide you with custom-made options that are properly suited for your kitchen’s unique dimensions and your personal storage needs. From modern to traditional, our custom cabinets are designed to fit within your home’s design.

Premium Countertops: Durability Meets Aesthetics

The kitchen countertop provides functional space, yet is also a critical design element that augments this space. We recommend top-tier materials from quartz and granite to marble, for their durability and timeless appeal. Among these materials, quartz countertops have become popular due to their non-porous surface that makes difficult stains easy to clean. Our team at Varian Construction is comprised of industry professionals who will assist you in choosing the best countertop materials and design, adding the perfect look to your kitchen.

State of the Art Appliances: Functionality Enhanced

Modern kitchen appliances increase the efficiency of your kitchen. At Varian Construction, we have access to today’s finest appliances including Wolf, Miele, and Sub-Zero. These appliances are not only top-of-the-line, but are also energy efficient, helping you save on utility bills while still enjoying the latest in technology for the kitchen.

Open-Concept Layouts: Opening up spaces for an expansive feel

Open-concept kitchens have become more and more popular for the feeling of spaciousness they provide. By eliminating non-load-bearing walls, we can easily change a small and enclosed kitchen into a very welcoming space that flows into the living and dining areas. Not only is this a great way to bring elegance to your home, it also makes it easier to entertain guests and converse with family members while working in the kitchen.

Lighting: Setting the Mood

Proper lighting in a kitchen is a must, as it helps create ambiance. At Varian Construction, we provide everything from task lighting under cabinets to ambient lighting that showcases architectural features. We incorporate natural light sources, such as skylights and large windows, to put a shine on your kitchen and enhance its feel.

Details are what distinguishes a good kitchen remodel. From artistic back-splashes and tasteful fixtures to intuitive storage solutions of retractable pantries and concealed trash: it’s what makes Varian Construction detailed-oriented.

Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction

Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has provided both residential and commercial building and remodeling services for over 30 years. Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your residential and/or commercial space will be built with both quality and care.

Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your renovation projects within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands.

Hire Varian Construction for your kitchen renovations; call 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.

Maximizing Condo Value: 3 Remodeling Strategies by Varian Construction

August 14, 2024

It’s the go-to condominium living that gives people a feeling of security and convenience. However, its remodeling your condo that maximizes it’s value. In this blog, Varian Construction shares three key strategies to help raise your condo’s value and appeal using their expertise in high-end renovations.

The kitchen is always considered the heart of a home, even when that is tantamount in maximizing the value of your condo. Upgrades you might want to consider include high-quality stainless steel appliances from brands like Wolf and Sub-Zero, quartz countertops for both durability and aesthetics, and custom cabinetry for maximum space.

Another major area influencing a condo’s value is the bathroom. Having an updated, spa-like bathroom really helps boost the home’s appeal. Consider replacing regular bathtubs with walk-in showers that have frameless glass doorways and higher-end hardware. Think about double vanities if space allows for extra convenience and appeal. Use luxury finishes like marble or high-quality tile to give the bathroom a sophisticated feeling.

Open-concept living areas are in high demand as they give an impression of a larger space and generally feel more welcoming. You can make your condo feel larger and add a modern touch by tearing down some of the non-load-bearing walls to create an open floor plan. Use natural light and artificial lighting with big windows, skylights, and the latest light fixtures to brighten your home. Consider installing hardwood or high-quality laminate instead of old carpets or tile flooring.

Maximizing the value of your condo involves thoughtful upgrades that enhance both functionality and aesthetics. By modernizing the kitchen, enhancing the bathroom, and opening up the living space, you can significantly boost your condo’s market value. Varian Construction specializes in these high-end renovations, ensuring each project not only meets but exceeds client expectations.

Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction

Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has provided extensive commercial building and remodeling services for over 30 years. Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your residential and/or commercial space will be built with both quality and care.

Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your renovation projects within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands.

Hire Varian Construction for your home renovations; call 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.

Top Trends in Florida Pool Remodels for 2024

July 24, 2024

With sunny, bright Florida days and emphasis on luxurious outdoor living, the state is awash with hot trends in pool remodeling for 2024. Homeowners are retrofitting their pools with new designs and current technologies that enhance their outdoor experiences. Here are the top trends for a Florida pool remodel in 2024.

Eco-Friendly Pools

Energy-efficient equipment leads this change, as more people move toward the use of energy-efficient pumps, heaters, and lighting that reduces energy consumption. Natural pool designs are also popular incorporating things like rock, waterfalls, and plants to fulfill an eco-friendly, yet decorative, pool design. Moreover, pools that are treated with saltwater are gaining in popularity due to the fact that they need much less maintenance and are soft on the body compared to pools with high chlorine levels.

Smart Pool Technology

Smart pool technology allows tasks like cleaning the pool, balancing the chemicals, and temperature control through the use of a smartphone app. Customized LED lighting is yet another tech-savvy trend, which brings out amazing visual effects that coordinate perfectly with after-dark pool ambiance, while also being energy-efficient.

Luxury Features

Infinity edges point to a major trend in luxury features that give the property a resort-like feel. Swim-up bars are turning the pool area into a social hub and a perfect place to entertain your guests. Integrated spas or hot tubs within the pool area ensure a lot of fun and unexpected advantages of relaxation, maybe even therapeutic ones.

Home owners today are avoiding traditional rectangular pools and instead prefer free-form pool designs with rounded curves and natural shapes that result in an organic, fluid look. The more modern, sleek alternatives are geometric pools, with clean lines and sharp angles.

Improved Outdoor Living Spaces

The integration of the outdoor kitchens with the pool area creates an addition that allows for indoor-outdoor living and entertaining. Features include fire pits and fireplaces that add warmth and ambiance, resulting in year-round usage of your pool area. Finally, the lush landscaping with native plants and tropical greenery offers the seclusion needed for an oasis-like setting to complement the pool’s design.

Water Features

Dynamic water features like waterfalls and fountains enhance the importance of visual and auditory appeal for the pool area. Deck jets and bubblers provide playful water effects that make a splash, adding fun and elegance to the pool.

Comfort Improvements and Safety Upgrades

Comfort improvements make it possible to enjoy pools during all seasons of the year. Safety should also be taken into consideration by making sure that pool decks and steps are covered with non-slip materials to avoid accidents. There are also automated safety covers for peace of mind, knowing that the pool is well covered and safe, while also minimizing maintenance and accidents.

Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction

Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has provided extensive commercial building and remodeling services for over 30 years. Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your residential and/or commercial space will be built with both quality and care.

Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your renovation projects within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands.

Hire Varian Construction for your pool renovations; call 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.

Hurricane-Resistant Construction: What Florida Contractors Recommend

July 11, 2024

Living in Florida, people are not new to the devastation hurricanes can bring into their lives. The requirements for hurricane-resistant construction are resolute. Here, we’ll discuss some of the major recommendations by Florida contractors about how to build a home that can face a storm’s wrath.

1. Strong Foundations

  • Deep Pilings: Pilings bind the building to the ground as firmly as possible. Deep pilings resist the uplifting forces created by high winds
  • Monolithic Slabs: Use monolithic slabs, which are poured as a single piece, to eliminate the occurrence of cracks which may lead to breaks in extreme conditions

2. Reinforced Wall

  • Concrete Block: Use concrete block walls with steel reinforcement and poured concrete to improve structural integrity 
  • ICFs: IFC’s will give superb strength and energy efficiency. Moreover, they offer exceptionally high resistance against high wind and flying debris

3. Impact Resistance Windows And Doors

  • Hurricane Windows: Design and install impact-resistant windows that endure both heavy winds and flying debris. These are designed to stay intact upon shattering
  • Reinforced Doors: Use doors that are rated to withstand hurricane winds. Additionally, be sure to get your garage doors, which can be problematic, reinforced

4. Roofing Security

  • Metal Roofs: A metal roofing system is recommended due to the simple reason of its strength and durability in the face of hurricane-force winds
  • Hurricane Straps: Install hurricane straps and clips, as well as fasteners to fasten the roof to the walls.

5. Proper Ventilation

  • Vented Soffits and Ridge Vents: Proper ventilation ensures pressure balancing and decreases the risk of roof damage
  • Hurricane Vents: Consider hurricane vents with auto-close shutters during hurricane-force winds to seal against water intrusion

6. Storm Shutters

  • Roll-Down Shutters: Activated on short notice, the window and door protection is very good
  • Accordion Shutters: With easy closure, this is a solid and effective option as well

7. Elevated Structures

  • Raised Foundations: In flood-prone areas, build on stilts or on a raised foundation so that the storm surges and flood waters do not reach the home
  • Flood Vents: The foundation walls should be fitted with flood vents. These will allow an unobstructed path for water rather than pressure accumulation, causing potential structural damage

8. Landscape Considerations

  • Wind-Resistant Landscaping: Plant trees and shrubs that are known to have a higher resistance to high winds. Place them strategically to block or at least minimize wind from directly hitting the home.
  • Debris-Free Zones: The area around the home shall be kept free of loose objects that might become projectiles during a storm.

Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction

Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has provided extensive commercial building and remodeling services for over 30 years. Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your residential and/or commercial space will be built with both quality and care.

Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your renovation projects within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands. Hire Varian Construction for your hurricane-resistant construction; call 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.

The Art of Painting: Techniques and Tips for a Flawless Finish

June 28, 2024

Painting is much more than choosing a wall color; it’s an art that changes the ambiance within a room. To tell the difference between a professional touch and a DIY touch knowledge, preparation, and skill are all necessary. Here are several painting techniques and tips to go along with them to help guide you in achieving that perfect finish.

Preparation: The Foundation of a Flawless Finish

  1. Clean the Surface: Before you consider holding a paintbrush, the surface to be painted will need to be cleaned. Dirt, dust, and grease can cause paint to adhere unevenly and create a patchy finish. Add a mild detergent to water for general cleaning and scrub the walls. TSP, or trisodium phosphate, works well against tougher grime. Do remember to let the surface dry before you move on.
  • Repair Imperfections: Check the walls for any cracks, holes, or dents, then fill them with a suitable spackle or filler. Allow these patched areas to dry, and then sand to a  smooth finish. Wipe away any accumulated dust with a damp piece of cloth.
  • Prime the Surface: Don’t skip priming the surface, especially if you are covering a dark color or a porous surface. The primer supports the paint’s. adhesive nature, gives a great and even surface, and can increase paint durability. Use a primer appropriate for the type of paint and the surface you are working on.

Choosing the Right Tools

  • Brushes and Rollers: The quality of the finish can make a big difference with the tools you are using. Good quality synthetic brushes will give good results on detailed work and edges. For larger areas, the roller with the proper nap length is crucial. As a rule of thumb, for smooth surfaces, use short nap—1/4″ to 3/8″—and for rough or textured surfaces, use longer nap—3/4″ to 1″.
  • Painter’s Tape: Also critical to your project is painters tape for both clean lines and protection of areas you do not intend to paint. Apply the tape slowly and press it down firmly, as it helps to avoid paint bleeds underneath.
  • Drop Cloths and Protective Gear: Cover your floors and furniture with drop cloths. Opt for canvas drop cloths over the plastic versions for no other reason than they are less slippery and paint spills can be more easily absorbed on their surface. Wear your protective gear, too—gloves and safety goggles.

Professional Painting Techniques

  1. Cutting In: This entails painting the edges and corners of walls with a brush before bringing in a roller. Tape off a good angled brush and carefully paint along edges of ceilings, baseboard, and around the windows and doors. Doing so creates a clean line and prevents the roller from smudging adjacent surfaces. Be sure to load the roller with paint without overloading it; which could cause drips. Next, start rolling in a ‘W’ or ‘M’ pattern. Then, fill in with horizontal strokes. This will give you an even coverage and inlay roller marks.
  • Feathering: Feathering is a light rolling over of the painted area, almost dry, to merge fresh paint into previously painted areas. This helps prevent lap marks.
  •  
  • Layering and Drying: For optimal results, apply a number of thin coats, not one thick coat. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times between layers. This procedure creates a more lasting and attractive finish.

Tips for Special Finishes

  • Textured Finishes: Add some dimension using a textured finish: Do some sponging, rag rolling, or stippling for added interest. Such techniques can add unique patterning to your walls and really give great life to space. Experiment with the tools and methods until you achieve what you want.
  • Accent Walls: Accent walls add interest to any room by providing a color pop and creating a focal point. Take a risk on a color that is bold, but not jarring, against the rest of your room’s palette. Painter’s tape will give you clean edges, and you can add multiple patterns or stencils if desired.
  • Metallic and Faux Finishes: Metallic paints and faux finishes can give a room regal flair and finesse. Most require some extra steps and products—a glazing medium, for instance, or specialty roller covers—but well worth the end result.

Final Touches and Cleanup Check Work and Touch Up

Now that the paint has dried, inspect your work for flaws and spots that could have been missed. Touch up these spots using a small brush for a flawless finish. Apply gentle force when pulling off painter’s tape to avoid peeling off any paint.

  • Clean Your Tools: Clean brushes and rollers well after use. This will extend their lifetime. Do not deviate from the manufacturer’s suggestion for cleanup. Any leftovers should be stored in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly closed.
  • Dispose of Responsibly: Discover and follow responsible ways to dispose of paint, solvents, and materials. Most communities have facilities for hazardous waste disposal. Do not let unwanted paint go down the drain or throw it away in your trash.

Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction

Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has provided extensive commercial building and remodeling services for over 30 years. Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your residential and/or commercial space will be built with both quality and care.

Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your renovation projects within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands. Hire Varian Construction for your home renovations; call 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.

3 Closet Renovation Strategies: Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality

May 28, 2024

Planning to renovate your closet? When it comes to home renovations, a well-designed closet can greatly enhance both the convenience and aesthetic appeal of your home.

Varian Construction is here to help with three effective strategies for renovating your closet, ensuring perfect harmony between functionality and style.

Our team of experts is dedicated to transforming your cluttered closets into stylish, efficient spaces.

Maximizing Storage with Precision

Each home – and each family — comes with its own set of needs, and at Varian Construction, we excel in creating custom storage designs that meet each and every one of those needs. We focus on:

  • Adaptable Shelving: We believe in the installation of adjustable shelving to aid in the ebb and flow of your wardrobe changes. This will make sure that your closet space remains functional and efficient as time goes by.
  • Seamlessly Integrated Drawers: Custom-built-in drawers are not just for storage; they’re for a cohesive aesthetic that enhances the room’s overall feel. These drawers are fitted with dividers for the ultimate organization of your personal things, keeping your space clean and orderly.
  • Strategically Arranged Hanging Zones: Properly planned hanging spaces are the key to keeping the condition of your clothes perfect and keeping your closet in working order. We make sure that every kind of garment has its place so your daily routine becomes more manageable and your wardrobe preserved.

Innovative Lighting Solutions for Modern Closets

The right lighting can turn a simple closet into a vibrant, inviting space. At Varian Construction, we leverage the power of modern lighting technology to elevate your closet’s usability and ambiance:

  • Precision LED Lighting: Using LED lighting not only saves energy but also bathes your clothes in light, enhancing visibility and adding a touch of modern chic to your closet design.
  • Motion Sensor Lighting: With lights that click on upon entering and go off when you leave, you keep energy costs down while keeping your level of convenience up—perfect for both expansive walk-in and smaller reach-in closets.
  • Ambient Lighting Accents: We love to add features like soft ambient lighting or even a statement chandelier to not only light up the space but also to style the closet. These features set the mood and really make the closet a standout feature of the home.

Choosing Durable and Stylish Materials

The durability of materials is as crucial as their aesthetic appeal in any renovation. Here’s how we approach material selection at Varian Construction:

  • High-Gloss Laminates: Nothing achieves the modern and sleek look more than high-gloss laminates. Extremely durable, resistant to wear and tear, and with the ease of maintenance, they make an excellent choice for a high-traffic area such as the closet.
  • Metallic Finishes: We always advise incorporating metallic accents for a touch of refinement. Be it the handles, drawer pulls, or merely decorative frames, these elements can tie together all your home’s design elements.

Hire a Contractor – Varian Construction

Based in Southwest Florida, Varian Construction has provided extensive commercial building and remodeling services for over 30 years. Furthermore, owner Bill Varian is accredited as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that your residential and/or commercial space will be built with both quality and care.

Fully licensed in Florida, Varian Construction can complete your renovation projects within your desired budget and timeframe. Varian uses CoConstruct to help schedule timelines, track financials, and as a platform for communication for homeowners so you can be confident that your project is in good hands.

Hire Varian Construction for your closet renovations; call 239.514.0103 or visit VarianConstruction.com.