Renovation Designs

When it's time to create renovation designs, one thing that many don't initially consider is blueprints. This is mainly because architects are most strongly associated with the construction of entirely new structures. However, you may find that you need one when it's time to change your home.

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Whether or not you'll need architectural blueprints depends on the type and scale of the renovation being planned. If you're planning on having an addition put on, you'll find that its construction is done like that of the rest of the house. Architectural plans will be needed since it is a new structure. It also must be integrated with the existing house, which adds an extra layer of challenge.

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You may also need blueprints if you intend to make major changes inside your existing house. Changing the locations of walls inside your home, or eliminating a wall altogether, can be more challenging than it may seem. This is because some walls are load-bearing, while others are not.

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If a wall has no load to bear, taking it down is mostly a matter of plain physical labor. A new non-load bearing wall can be put up by anyone who knows construction, too. However, if a wall does need to carry weight, it is important that something is done to provide support before the wall is removed. In this case, an architect's services will be needed. A firm like Ken Ellenberger Home Designs can devise great-looking alternatives to load-bearing walls that let you open up an area of your house while still maintaining the needed support.

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Sometimes, it's good to have renovation designs drawn up even if your project doesn't require major architectural changes. If you don't already have specific design ideas in mind, the help of a professional will go far to ensure that you end up with results that are both beautiful and functional.