Investor · Sewell, NJ · Member since 2016 · 17 posts · 3 votes
I am currently working on my 6th fix and flip property. I want to further my education on home design. Obviously I have full time contractors that are doing the work on the rehabs but I need to learn more about redesigning kitchen layouts, lighting, flow, etc. Most "interior design" courses I come across are more focused on decorating rather then actual design. I would also like to learn more about the mechanical processes of homes. not looking to become an expert but at least understand a little more about how it all fits together. I live in the NJ and Philly area so any advice is appreciated. thanks
The National Kitchen and Bath Association offers courses that lead to certifications in kitchen and bath design. Of course you don't have to get the certificates to take the classes
As for your second question, there's a book called "How Your House Works" by Charlie Wing. There's also a college textbook called "Fundamentals of Residential Construction."
If you'd like to learn more about the mechanicals homes, you should ask the contractors about these things when they are working on them. Not sure if the homes you flip get down to replacing HVAC, plubming, or electrical, but if so, then that is easy education. Watching and asking questions really goes a long way. Other than that, there is always YouTube. You can learn just about anything there.
As far as physical design, it's more art than science, more talent than skill. You just gotta have a good feel for it. Some people do, some people don't. Since most homes are very different layout-wise (unless you're flipping multiple homes in a master planned subdivision with the same floor plan), each will present its own set of challenges. If you watch enough HGTV and keep an eye on sites like Houzz or Zillow Digs, you can get a pretty good idea of current design trends in terms of layouts, lighting, colors, etc.
thanks Bob. I agree that a lot of it is more art then science. I am pretty confident in my design ideas i would just like to learn how to back up my choices and decisions with a more educated eye.
@Mikki McIntyre I'm that trained eye you are looking for! I grew up drafting, my grandfather's were both engineers and my father ran a Custom design business in the 80s which I would go on installs. I followed in his footsteps and got my degree in Interior Design. Color expert, specializing in space planning and all budgets...plus I'm local(NJ). Would love the opportunity to partner up and/or advise.
I am an Interior Designer by profession based in NY, and I would suggest for you to start off by studying the ergonomics of kitchens. This will help you to understand the mechanics of how a kitchen is planned out, nothing is more important than the layout in my humble opinion. Feel free to PM me and I can send you a cheat sheet that I use.
The National Kitchen and Bath Association offers courses that lead to certifications in kitchen and bath design. Of course you don't have to get the certificates to take the classes
As for your second question, there's a book called "How Your House Works" by Charlie Wing. There's also a college textbook called "Fundamentals of Residential Construction."