Page 4 - Home Decor 5 2021

A MasterPLAN for your ideal outdoor living space

When it’s time to turn your backyard dreams into reality, the hardest part
can be visualizing the end result.

That’s why MasterPLAN Outdoor Living takes a design-first approach. We recently sat down with founder Joshua
Gillow, who has tips for anyone who wants to transform their outdoor space.

Q: What’s the biggest challenge homeowners face when planning their dream back yard?
A: They have a hard time visualizing what it could look like. They want a pool, a patio, protection from the sun …
they know what they want, but don’t know how to put it all together. We alleviate those stressors by managing the
entire project.
Q: What should a homeowner look for when hiring someone for a backyard project?

A: They should look at the company’s references and web site; verify the company’s style and experience align
with the project. Asking a contractor to design something out of their realm is a risk. You want to hire someone
who is focused on a design first. Don’t focus on square footage, focus on how the space will perform. What will
the furniture look like? What will fit? Think about the entire project … grilling, dining, and lounging areas.

Q: What’s the first mistake homeowners make with their project?
A: More often than not, they’re excited and just trust the contractor, and then find out the contractor has never
done something like it before. The contractor is figuring it out as they go along. We’ve had to tear down entire
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builds because of major problems. The trouble is, homeowners are hiring builders and asking them to design.
We’re designers who build. We look at all the variables. For instance, steps: Can Grandma make them? What
about children? We want to make sure you’ve considered everything.

Q: How about long-term maintenance?
A: The type of project materials determine the level of maintenance. In general, you pay more up front to save time
later. Unlike many contractors, we are not beholden to any manufacturer when it comes to purchasing materials.
Some people hire a contractor, and then four years later their deck is peeling. It’s not that the contractor was
trying to bamboozle anyone, but they were locked into a loyalty program and got discounts for using a certain
brand. MasterPLAN suggests materials based on our experience with them.

Q: What should a homeowner ask themselves before starting a project?
A: 1) What am I trying to achieve? Is it just a place to get out of the house? Or do I want to add value to my home
and life experience? What should it look like to be a success? They don’t need all the details, but should have the
basics. Do I want rain protection? The sound of water? A fire feature? How many seasons will I use the space?
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Thursday, May 13, 2021 Should it be simple, or wow your friends? How can you maximize your investment?
2) Are you looking for a Band-Aid to fix something, or are you looking to create an extension of your living space?

3) What is your budget? Come up with a range. Which pieces do you see adding value, and which can you live
without? If you’re setting the wrong expectations now, there will be heartache later.

To learn more about MasterPLAN Outdoor Living, call 610-628-2480 or visit mymasterplan.com.
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