Our March blog covered the concept of a “forever home” and how to build a house that grows with your family. This month, we’re discussing the next item on the “forever home” checklist, designing for aging in place. So, what is aging in place? Simply said, it’s staying put! However, aging in place requires the right setting: a comfortable home that allows you to live independently while staying safe. Unless your home was built with universal design principles, it will likely need modifications to support aging in place. Keep reading below for home design tips that enable safe, responsible aging in place. Map it Out Mentally and physically walk through your home, room by room, searching for areas that could be...Read More
If you have ever built, purchased, or remodeled a home, then you’ve probably talked about the idea of a forever home. Honestly, you’ve most likely heard, or uttered, the phrase after an exhausting move, as in, “we’re never moving again – this is our forever home!” Besides the allure of never packing again, a forever home is a place where you put down roots; you’re there for the long haul. However, designing a home that grows with your family actually involves a lot of change. Careful planning with an expert contractor is the key to planning a home that can accommodate your family for years to come. Keep reading for our advice on creating your family’s forever home. Room to...Read More
When it comes to home ownership, there are dilemmas we all face: staying organized, balancing maintenance priorities, or simply running out of space. As a custom home builder and remodeler for over 20 years, we’ve helped many homeowners expand their square footage. One common concern they encounter is blending the old with the new; what if a modern addition clashes with the character of their existing home? No one wants to invest in a remodel only to end up with a mismatched, awkward result! These concerns are understandable, but with the right skills, a seamless home addition is within reach. It takes careful planning, teamwork, and attention to design, materials, and flow. At Andrus Built, we focus on client satisfaction....Read More
It doesn’t matter if it’s a remodel or new construction; we all want to build homes that last. Whether big or small, any home project is a major investment of your resources and time. When it comes to something as important as your home, it’s okay to take your time and be picky. After all, you literally have to live with the remodeling decisions you make. What is Timeless Design?So, how do you create a home that stands the test of time? And why is timeless design worth the investment? These are both good questions! First off, let’s define what we mean by timeless design. Something timeless has lasting appeal; it transcends cycles of trends, is high quality, and focuses...Read More
Building a custom home is a massive undertaking. Whether it’s your first new build or you’ve been through the process in the past, creating a home from scratch is intimidating. As a home builder in the Twin Cities metro since 1989, we specialize in helping homeowners navigate the ins and outs of construction. Read on below for an overview of the first steps of building a custom home, from vision to blueprint! Cast a Vision Before doing anything else, your job as the homeowner is to cast your vision. Research, browse Houzz, visit home tours, make Pinterest mood boards – dream big! To help discover your style and needs, ask yourself questions like: What design am I drawn to? Which...Read More
When asked why they’re choosing to remodel, many homeowners will mention hosting as a reason. Whether they want more space, a newer style, or better functionality, hosting more often and with greater ease is usually part of their motivation. We get it – sharing your home with others is a part of life, and it’s a downer when you don’t enjoy it. So, how do you build a home that’s suited for entertaining? As experienced builders and remodelers, we’ve seen which additions and upgrades stand the test of time and serve our clients well. Scroll below for our top tips and ideas! Layout is King When creating a home centered on entertaining, layout is king above all else. Traffic patterns...Read More
Are you planning a home remodel this year? Gathering ideas and inspiration is the first step of any home renovation project. Design trends, in particular, are a huge area to navigate. You may want your home to look modern and on-trend while remaining true to your personal style. Are you searching for some home design guidance? Scroll below to read about our favorite 2025 home renovation trends. English-Style KitchensImagine the kitchen of a cottage in the English countryside. This kitchen remodeling trend is all about cultivating a cozy, lived-in atmosphere. Consider natural woodgrain, classic paint colors, butcher block, soapstone countertops, and striking range alcoves when drawing inspiration from this trend. Shower RoomsPrivate shower rooms are a far cry from the...Read More
When it comes to building a home, choosing the right builder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. While large national companies may have name recognition, working with a small local home builder offers unique advantages. From personalized service to local expertise, here’s why choosing a small home builder could be the best decision for your project. Personalized Service & Attention to Detail One of the biggest advantages of working with a small home builder is the personalized experience. Unlike larger companies that handle multiple projects simultaneously, a local builder works with a smaller client base — allowing for more direct communication and tailored service. With a small builder, you’re more than just a number in a long...Read More
Are you dreaming about remodeling in 2025? If so, then you’re probably thinking a lot about what would add lasting value to your home. Cultivating resale value is always a complicated chess match; choosing what projects to invest in can feel daunting. The good news? Even smaller changes can increase your investment and improve your daily life. According to U.S. News & World Report, the top five home upgrades that increase property value are: HVAC Cooling and Heating Systems Garage Door Replacement Exterior Stone Veneer or New Vinyl Siding New Entry Door Minor Kitchen Remodel We’ll delve into more detail about each of these value-boosting updates below! HVAC Cooling and Heating SystemsWhen it comes to cost-effective upgrades, you can’t beat the...Read More
