Editorial Note: Projects for the Year Ahead


It always feels a little weird to make resolutions to improve your life, with timing based on a decision made by a pope hundreds of years ago. I’m referring, of course, to the Gregorian calendar (implemented by Pope Gregory XIII, which is what’s used in the United States and most of the western world) and January 1. From a financial standpoint, it is officially the start of a new tax year, and new electrification and energy rebates, so it’s maybe not all that weird.

Regardless, I’m an advocate for making plans, and wintertime (especially where I live in Minnesota) is a great time to start thinking about the projects you want to tackle this year. When it’s so cold your car won’t start, or there’s so much snow I can’t get out of the driveway, it gives me time to consider my goals for the year and think through the projects on my list.

My big goal this year is not to start any new house projects, and instead focus on finishing projects that are almost done. As much as I’d like to break ground on updating the backyard landscaping in the spring, it’s much more imperative that I finally install that crown molding in the kitchen to finish a remodel that began in the fall of 2019. It’s been at about 90% complete for years now. This is the year it gets finished. Likewise, our first-floor powder room is totally functional and usable, but the pocket door needs some finessing (and the final pieces of trim need to be installed, too). Then there’s the basement, where I’m slowly framing walls and putting up drywall. And new flooring for the bedrooms upstairs.

Whatever you have planned for the new year, Fine Homebuilding is here to support and guide you on your next projects. Thank you for being a Fine Homebuilding member, and here’s to more finished projects!

—Andrew Zoellner, editorial director

This photo originally appeared in the article 10 Steps to Install Crown Molding on Cabinets

×

Related Posts

Beware Egotistical & Closed-Minded Contractors

Beware Egotistical & Closed-Minded Contractors

Egotistical and Closed-Minded Contractors – What would you say about a roofer who looked at this photo and denied that copper ions washing off the cupola roof…

Roof Repair for Home 2023: Navigating the Skies of Restoration

Roof Repair for Home 2023: Navigating the Skies of Restoration

Local roofing services are well-versed in the unique challenges presented by the local climate and building codes. They can provide tailored solutions that are not only effective…

Wiring for Subpanels: The Right Cables

I live in a home built in 2017. The basement is unfinished, but I’m in the process of adding a kitchenette, bathroom, bedroom, and living space. The…

Podcast 546: PRO TALK With Architect and Builder Jason

Follow the Fine Homebuilding Podcast on your favorite app. Subscribe now and don’t miss an episode: Ian and Jason discuss growing up with a builder for a…

High-Performance Windows for Timeless Design

Today, we’re on the East Coast at a high-performance home designed by Steven Baczek Architect and built by Shoreline Builders. This home’s timeless design in combination with…

Editorial Note: Building New is Easy

Photo: Elizabeth Glasgow Studios, courtesy of The Turett Collaborative While I love great design and magnificent old houses, the conversation in the building world has shifted pretty…