Tips from Bluestem Remodeling for Renovating with Kids in the House
Remodeling with kids in the family can be really difficult – or a big adventure for the whole family!
Depending on the personality and age of your children – as well as the type of remodeling project you’re doing – the experience can vary greatly. A basement remodel, for example, where the project area is separate from your primary daily living space, may end up farily easy for your family. Remodeling a kitchen when there’s a toddler in the house, on the other hand… can be more of a challenge, with meals and food prep being a bit more difficult.
School age children can be trickier; Some don’t like change or disruptions, and for many, it can actually be quite difficult.
Bluestem Tip:
Try and get them involved. Having your kids look at the design drawings along with you might help their experience with the process, and maybe there are even certain areas in the home you want to get their opinions on!
Try warming them up to the process by asking questions such as:
Where will we put your lunch box? Where will we keep your snacks or store your bath products?
Having kids involved in the process – when appropriate – can be exciting for them (and fun for you!) as long as you’re setting the right boundaries along the way. But do be aware, getting kids involved in decisions can also be a slippery slope, and might be difficult for the designers involved – depending on your family’s dynamics. Setting healthy boundaries along the way with your youngest family members can help make the experience memorable and positive for everyone- without causing undue stress on your other family members!
These homeowners underwent a large remodel in their home, and while difficult, they could not have been happier at the end with their new layout and family spaces! They now have a home that will work for the whole family to enjoy for years to come.
Bluestem Tip:
Get the kids involved in your home remodel – and always let them know what’s going on! No matter their level of involvement, it is incredibly important to let your kids know what’s coming – and why the work is being done. This can even act as a great early life lesson for your family: “Things change, and change can often times be uncomfortable or weird. But, change can also bring improvement in the long run!”
Bluestem Tip:
If you’re still worried about remodeling with kids in the house, you might want to consider moving out – for either all, or part, of your remodel. Many families with young children have a much better experience simply by NOT living through their remodel.
What’s Best For Your Family?
No matter your situation, the right remodel can make your home work better for your entire family, even though there are, and will be, challenges to work through along the way.
If you’re considering a remodel for your home, and need help working out the best plan for your own family, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’d love to have a conversation with you and discuss how we can help you create new spaces in your home the whole family can enjoy! Be it a multipurpose family basement or an entertainment space, our team is ready to collaborate with you.
