Houseplans

Sometime around the middle of the year, we finalized the houseplans with the architect. A quick list of the highlights:

1. Rewire the entire house and run city lines underground.
2. New plumbing and water heater.
3. Insulate.
4. Install radon-mitigation system.
5. Enlarge kitchen by stealing space from the unused entry area and shift it to the middle of the west side of the house with new appliances, countertops, cabinets.
6. Create a built-in dining nook where the existing kitchen is, looking out to the backyard.
7. Move/resize/add windows in the entry, kitchen and dining areas (total of 5 new windows).
8. Redo the bathroom: new surfaces, pedastal sink, new tiled shower surround, built-in storage.
9. Create a formal entry area flanked by square columns and having a window seat.
10. Return the fireplace to its original facade by removing the flagstone surround; install a safer fireplace insert.
11. Add built-ins, wainscoting, ceiling beams, and other trim to tie all the rooms together in a Prairie Style consistent with the exterior.
12. Paint.
13. Refinish floors.

(good grief, there are 13 "highlights"?)