Home Remodeling | JW-Design Center

Transform Your Lower Level: A DIY Guide to Converting Your Basement into a Home Office and Guest Suite

September 23, 2025September 30, 2025 - by Christian Harris

The basement is often the last frontier of a home—a space relegated to storage, laundry, or forgotten holiday décor. However, with the rise of remote work and the need for private, comfortable guest spaces, a DIY basement conversion into a home office and guest suite is one of the smartest home improvements you can undertake. It adds incredible functionality, boosts your home’s value, and provides a quiet, dedicated zone for both work and visitors.

Ready to reclaim your subterranean square footage? Here’s a guide to planning, prepping, and perfecting your dual-purpose basement conversion.

Phase 1: The Essential Prep Work

A successful basement remodel starts with critical prep to ensure a dry, safe, and code-compliant space. Do not skip these steps!

1. Check for Moisture and Waterproof

Basements are prone to dampness. Before framing a single wall, you must address any moisture issues.

Inspect: Look for signs of mold, mildew, or

Home Remodeling

Ranch Revival: Modern Farmhouse Exterior Remodel Ideas for a Classic Ranch-Style House

August 21, 2025September 30, 2025 - by Christian Harris

The classic ranch home, with its long, low-slung profile and simple rooflines, is a perfect candidate for a dramatic exterior transformation. By blending the cozy, rustic elements of farmhouse design with the clean lines and contrasting palettes of modern style, you can elevate a dated ranch into a chic, contemporary haven.

Here are the top remodeling ideas to achieve the sought-after Modern Farmhouse aesthetic for your ranch-style house.

1. The Power of Siding: Texture and Contrast

The most impactful change you can make to a ranch exterior is updating the siding, using a mix of materials to create visual depth and the signature farmhouse feel.

Introduce Board and Batten: This is the hallmark of the modern farmhouse. Replace some or all of your existing horizontal siding with vertical board and batten. Use it to highlight gables, entryway walls, or the entire front face of the house to draw the

Home Remodeling

Transform Your Space, Not Your Wallet: A Cost-Effective Master Bathroom Renovation with a Walk-In Shower

July 19, 2025September 30, 2025 - by Christian Harris

The sleek, open design of a walk-in shower is the centerpiece of a modern master bathroom. While the thought of a full master bath renovation can trigger budget anxiety, achieving this luxurious feature on a tight budget is entirely possible. By prioritizing smart material choices, embracing the existing footprint, and leveraging DIY effort, you can turn a dated bathroom into a spa-like retreat without overspending.

Here is your cost-effective strategy for a master bathroom renovation centered around a beautiful walk-in shower.

1. Strategic Planning: The Foundation of Savings

Before any demolition begins, a solid plan is the biggest money-saver.

Embrace the Existing Footprint: The single largest expense in a bathroom remodel is moving the plumbing. To keep costs low, plan your new walk-in shower in the exact location of your old tub or shower stall. This eliminates costly pipe and drain relocation.
Opt for a Tub-to-Shower Conversion: If you have

Home Remodeling

Smart & Stylish: Open-Concept Kitchen and Living Room Remodel Ideas on a Budget

June 17, 2025September 30, 2025 - by Christian Harris

An open-concept kitchen and living room is the ultimate dream for modern living, promoting connection, flow, and a spacious feel. While major structural changes can be expensive, you can achieve a stunning, cohesive, and functional open-concept look without completely draining your bank account.

Here are budget-friendly ideas to transform your space and create a seamless, welcoming heart of your home.

Phase 1: Creating Cohesion and Flow (The Foundation)

The key to a successful open concept is creating a unified look across both spaces. This is where you get the most impact for your dollar.

1. A Unified Paint Palette

The Power of One Color: Use a single, light, and neutral paint color (like a warm white, light gray, or beige) on the walls of both the kitchen and the living room. This instantly tricks the eye into seeing one large, flowing space.
Strategic Accent Walls: If you crave color, choose