Annual Awards Criteria

Residential Remodel

1. Alignment with Homeowner’s Goals

• Fulfillment of Needs: Does the remodel effectively address the homeowner’s specific needs and objectives (e.g., more space, better functionality, modern aesthetics)?
• Lifestyle Suitability: Is the remodel tailored to the homeowner's lifestyle (e.g., creating open spaces for entertaining, adding private areas for relaxation)?
• Personalization: Are there customized elements that reflect the homeowner’s personality, preferences, or design style?

2. Aesthetic Appeal and Design Consistency

• Design Harmony: Does the remodeled area blend seamlessly with the rest of the house, ensuring that new and old elements are cohesive?
• Consistency in Style: Is the remodel consistent with the home’s original architectural style, or is there a deliberate contrast that is well-executed and visually pleasing?
• Visual Appeal: Are the new design choices (e.g., color palette, materials, fixtures) visually appealing and harmonious?

3. Space Utilization and Layout

• Maximized Use of Space: Does the remodel make the best use of available space, improving the overall layout and flow of the home?
• Room Functionality: Is the remodeled space functional for its intended purpose (e.g., a kitchen that's efficient for cooking, a bathroom that's spacious and practical)?
• Flexibility: Does the remodel add flexibility to the space, allowing for multiple uses or future changes as needs evolve?

4. Structural Integrity and Build Quality

• Quality of Construction: Are the structural modifications done with high-quality materials and craftsmanship? Are new installations (walls, floors, ceilings) solid and well-built?
• Seamless Integration: Do the new structural elements (e.g., extensions, additional rooms) integrate smoothly with the existing structure without compromising the home's integrity?
• Attention to Detail: Are finishing details like trim, molding, and seams well-executed, showing a high level of craftsmanship?

5. Improved Functionality and Efficiency

• Improved Flow: Does the remodel improve the flow of the home, making it easier to move between spaces or creating more logical connections between rooms?
• Storage Solutions: Has the remodel introduced smart storage solutions that enhance the functionality of the space without compromising design?
• Enhanced Usability: Does the remodeled space provide better ergonomics, making it more comfortable and user-friendly for daily activities?

6. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

• Energy-Efficient Features: Are energy-efficient systems and appliances incorporated into the remodel (e.g., energy-saving windows, efficient HVAC systems, LED lighting)?
• Sustainable Materials: Are sustainable, eco-friendly materials used in the remodel, such as recycled or locally sourced materials?
• Environmental Impact: Has the remodel minimized its environmental footprint, for example by using low-VOC paints, water-efficient fixtures, or solar energy?

7. Integration of Modern Technology

• Smart Home Features: Does the remodel incorporate smart home technologies (e.g., automated lighting, security systems, temperature control)?
• Updated Infrastructure: Are plumbing, electrical, and heating systems updated to modern standards, improving performance and safety?
• Future-Proofing: Has the remodel considered potential future technological advancements, with wiring or systems that allow for upgrades?

8. Lighting and Ventilation

• Natural Light: Does the remodel enhance natural lighting in key areas? Are windows or skylights used effectively to brighten the space?
• Artificial Lighting: Is there a well-thought-out lighting plan that balances ambient, task, and accent lighting to create an inviting atmosphere?
• Ventilation: Has ventilation been improved or maintained to ensure healthy air quality and appropriate moisture control, especially in bathrooms or kitchens?

 9. Indoor-Outdoor Integration

• Connection to Outdoors: Does the remodel enhance the connection to outdoor spaces, such as through the addition of patios, decks, or larger windows?
• Outdoor Views and Access: Are outdoor views enhanced, or is access to outdoor living areas improved, adding value to both the interior and exterior spaces?
• Landscaping Integration: Does the remodel consider how it integrates with existing landscaping or plans for outdoor improvements?

10. Innovation and Creativity

• Creative Problem-Solving: Has the remodel introduced innovative design solutions to overcome space limitations, awkward layouts, or other challenges?
• Unique Features: Are there any standout design elements or custom features that make the remodel unique and memorable (e.g., a statement staircase, a hidden room)?
• Adaptation of Trends: Has the remodel successfully incorporated modern design trends while ensuring they remain timeless and not easily dated?

• Family Friendliness: If relevant, does the remodel improve the home’s functionality for family life, such as adding kid-friendly features or creating multi-use spaces?

By considering these criteria, a residential remodel can be judged holistically, taking into account how well the renovation meets design goals, improves functionality, and enhances the overall quality and value of the home.