Got a remodeling project? Looking for an idea? The 2010 Tour of Remodeled Homes offers a variety of inspirations!

NARI of Southeast Michigan is proud to present some of Washtenaw County’s most exciting, recent remodeling projects in the 7th annual Tour of Remodeled Homes, May 15 and 16.

This year’s tour includes a wide variety of projects in 11 homes, including:

• Additions
• Whole house remodeling
• Kitchen and bath remodels
• Exterior and front entrance remodels, and
• Lower level finishes

Tons of information is available on the NARI Web site, www.NARIsemich.org, including a map of locations. Below we describe three of the tour entries. Watch this column over the next few weeks to learn more about some of the other innovative remodeling projects in the area!

A Unique Addition

The first stop on the tour is a bit off the beaten path - but well worth the trip!

Photo provided by Architectural Resource

Located on Wylie Road in Dexter, the homeowner’s goals were to remove a mundane existing room and, in its place, add a unique new addition, both improving function and enhancing the home. The primary focus of the new space was a fireplace that, beyond pragmatic purposes of generating heat, was also to be a visually distinctive, striking, sculptural form; a functional piece of art. The addition’s design takes its cues from the existing home’s 45-degree thrusting cross gables. On the interior a unique, custom fireplace echoes the projecting cross gable theme with an angled metal “hood” mantle and flanking sides. The knotty pine cathedral ceiling includes a staggered and offset skylight array playing off the existing home’s window pattern.

Designed by Architectural Resource and built by Dimora Properties LLC, the addition provides a complementary yet dramatic soaring building form seamlessly blending with the existing home. Recognized with multiple national and regional design awards and featured on the cover of “Qualified Remodeler” magazine — this one is definitely worth the trip. Come be inspired!

Basement Restoration

Photo by Cardea Construction

Next stop on the tour is a full basement renovation.

Located on Cedar Ridge Drive in Ann Arbor, this homeowner wanted to personalize their unfinished lower level. Cardea Construction worked side by side with them throughout the process, designing welcoming and functional spaces to use in multiple ways with their extended family.

Some of the project features include a full bath and a fun place for their son to play and for friends to gather - all within budget.

Multi-Phased Home Remodel

Dexter Builders began this phased remodeling project in 2002, recently completing the newest round of renovations.

Photo by Dexter Builders

Dexter Builders has completed several projects at this Polo Fields home since 2002 - the third home on our tour, located on Dornoch Drive in Ann Arbor. Most recently, the homeowner remodeled two baths and refinished the garage.

Photo by Dexter Builders

The bathrooms include custom cabinetry, granite counters and shelves and marble tile. The garage was finished with lots of custom storage and epoxy floor finish. The remodel also includes cedar siding and trim, a thin brick veneer on the chimney and new windows and patio door. The finished basement includes a new family room, an awesome workshop and tons of custom storage.

All of the projects on the tour are designed and/or constructed by NARI of Southeast Michigan members. To learn more about this organization, visit our Web site at www.NARIsemichi.org.