Episode 86 – Common Renovation Mistakes to Avoid
You may have heard that these days are a challenge in residential construction. Price increases, delays, and supply chain problems are plaguing construction and renovation projects. Massachusetts architect Chris Novelli joined me in this episode to discuss common renovation mistakes. Chris has a book coming out soon, the working title of which is Your Guide […]
Episode 84 – Owner’s Rep – with Fred Gutierrez
I first heard about Fred as the contractor who renovated California Ranch in Massachusetts (episode 64). We then met a couple times on Clubhouse. I started listening to (and taking notes about) his podcast Home Owners Institute. He agreed to come on to my podcast to discuss the role he has cut out for himself […]
Episode 78 – Working with an Architect
I first met the architect Dory Azar on TikTok, or I should say that is where I first became aware of him. In his videos he shows his work, explains how to read plans, and celebrates his firm’s 10 year anniversary. We later started running into each other on the app Clubhouse, where we both […]
Working With An Architect With Dory Azar
Are you planning a big renovation on your house? Well, one of the first things you should consider is working with an architect! Today’s guest is here to tell you why. Dory Azar of Dory Azar Architect, Inc. joins Katharine MacPhail to discuss why you need an architect when renovating your home. From dealing with unexpected plumbing issues to […]
Episode 72 – Renovation Roadmap
Today’s episode is about how to plan your renovation roadmap with a renovation coach. Katharine MacPhail 00:10 You are listening to Talking Home Renovations with The House Maven. Is it time to renovate your house, but you’re worried that you don’t really know what you’re doing? This is an educational and entertaining podcast that will […]
Episode 72 – Renovation Roadmap
Remodeling and construction journeys are complicated. It’s no wonder homeowners get stuck in the process. Having a renovation roadmap means reducing frustration and always knowing your next step. In this episode, you will discover……. What “roadmap” means in the context of home renovation. Some common mistakes homeowners make on their renovation journey. Whether it’s ever […]
Episode 70 – How to be a Good Client
In this episode, LaShaun Key discusses how to be a good client for an architect, and shares a recipe for amazing lomi salmon. Katharine MacPhail 00:10 Hello, and welcome to Talking Home Renovations with the House Maven. I am your host Katharine MacPhail. I’m an architect, and I practice in eastern Massachusetts. Most of my […]
Episode 69 – Promoting Health and Mental Health through Design
Architect Isra Banks joined me this week to discuss the impact that our homes can have on our mental and physical health, and how we can promote physical and mental health through design. Are you optimizing your personal environment? ARDEMASDuring the introduction of this episode I mentioned that Isra and I are working with Jay […]
Episode 68 – How to Find the Right Design Professional
Jake Krokowski is back, this time with advice about how to find the right design professional for your project. If you liked my talk with Jake, you’ll love his helpful YouTube videos.
Episode 66 – Renovation Story – Split Level Outside of Chicago
Just today I was visiting a split level entry house for a potential project. Sometimes there are two levels and sometimes there are 4 levels. Either way the entry is raised and the basement/main floor is partially submerged. The ceilings on the ground floor are typically 7 to 7 1/2′ feet. On top of all […]