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lynch interiors mid-construction

Years in the Making: An Interior Remodel Built on Trust

Written by Karen Redick on . Posted in Blog.

Some of our best work doesn’t start with a big project — it starts with a small one that goes well. That’s the story behind this ongoing interior remodel, the latest chapter in a partnership that’s spanned several years and grown with every phase.

Lifted House

How It Started

Redbud’s relationship with this homeowner began with a single outdoor living space — a luxurious, relaxing lakeside retreat designed for unwinding at the water’s edge. That project led to window, door, and roof replacements. And now, it’s grown into the most ambitious phase yet: a full interior remodel, with Redbud and our subcontractors working alongside interior designers, custom cabinet makers, and other specialists to bring the whole home up to the same standard as the outdoor space that started it all.

The First Floor Transformation

The remodel began at ground level with new Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors running across most of the first floor — including a custom tile-and-hardwood geometric pattern in the entry foyer that sets the tone the moment you walk in.

From there, the laundry room got a full remodel: new tile flooring, wallpaper, and custom cabinetry turned a purely functional space into one that matches the rest of the home. The dining room, living room, and hallways were freshly repainted throughout, tying the first floor together.

laundry renovation lynch

Now Underway: The Master Suite

Work has moved upstairs, where the homeowners’ master bedroom and bathroom suite is undergoing a complete redesign — down to the studs.

The bathroom is being fully demolished and rebuilt: new interior walls, electrical, and fixtures; a fully tiled shower and ceiling; custom cabinetry; and radiant heated tile flooring for cold mornings. Next door, the master closet is getting a custom shelving system designed around how the homeowners actually live. The bedroom itself will carry the same Brazilian Cherry hardwood as the first floor, tying the whole home together in one continuous material palette.

Follow Along

This project is still underway, with more transformation to come. Follow us on social media for progress updates as the master suite comes together.

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  • lynch interiors mid-construction – 2

Curious what a multi-phase partnership with Redbud could look like for your own home? Reach out to the Redbud team to talk through your project.

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Sacandaga Lake house lift - 6

From Cramped to Complete: A Sacandaga Lake House Gets Five Feet of New Possibility

Written by Karen Redick on . Posted in Blog.

When the owners of this Great Sacandaga Lake home came to Redbud, they weren’t looking for a simple remodel. They wanted more room to live, without giving up the footprint or the view they’d fallen in love with. The answer turned out to be underneath them the whole time.

Lifted House

The Lift

This spring, our crew raised the entire home five feet off its foundation. It’s the kind of project that sounds almost impossible until you see it happen: disconnect the electrical and plumbing, lift the structure, and go to work on what’s underneath.

With the house elevated, we extended the concrete basement walls by two feet on three sides. On the lake-facing front wall, we went further — new footings, a new foundation wall, and new windows and doors to bring in the same water views the upper floors already enjoy. Once the structural work wrapped, we reconnected all the electrical and plumbing systems and got the house settled back onto its new foundation.


What Two Feet Buys You

That extra two feet of ceiling height doesn’t sound like much on paper. In practice, it unlocked 1,990 square feet of brand-new living space — without adding a single inch to the home’s footprint or disturbing the lot.

The basement, now under construction, will include:

  • Two new bedrooms
  • A new full bathroom
  • A great room for gathering
  • A utility room
  • A dedicated hunting room

For a lake house that gets used hard by family and guests, that’s a full second living level added to a home that used to end at ground level.

Beyond the Foundation

A project like this doesn’t stop at the framing. Redbud handled the full picture around the house, too:

  • Tree removal and extensive site grading to reshape the property
  • Several boulder retaining walls
  • A new septic system
  • New driveway construction
  • A new propane tank and water conditioner
  • New patios and decks for outdoor living
  • Fresh lawn, planting beds, and a wildflower garden

It’s a good snapshot of what a Redbud project actually looks like end to end — structural work, site work, hardscape, and landscape design all coordinated under one crew, rather than handed off between separate contractors.

Still Growing

The basement build-out is ongoing, and we’ll share more as the space comes together. If your own home has more potential underneath it than it does around it, this is exactly the kind of project Redbud Development takes on — from the foundation up.

Interested in what’s possible for your property? Reach out to the Redbud team to talk through your project.

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Stone Slab Stairs: Pros & Cons

Written by Karen Redick on . Posted in Blog.

As you can see in these pictures of stairs we have installed over the years, stone slab stairs offer a unique blend of durability, elegance, and natural beauty. However, they also come with certain considerations.

Pros of Stone Slab Stairs

Durability: Stone is incredibly resistant to wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.

Beauty: Natural stone offers a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns, adding a touch of elegance to any space.

Timeless: Stone is a classic material that stands the test of time, enhancing the value of your home.

Low Maintenance: Unlike wood, stone doesn’t rot, warp, or splinter, requiring minimal upkeep.

Cons of Stone Slab Stairs

Cost: Stone slabs can be significantly more expensive than other materials like wood or concrete.

Weight: Stone is heavy, which requires a sturdy foundation and professional installation.

Cold: Stone can feel cold to the touch, especially in colder climates.

Slippery: Some types of stone, like marble or granite, can be slippery when wet, increasing the risk of falls. So, we would not use this type of stone on stairs, but they make a beautiful countertop!

Installation Difficulty: Due to the weight and precision required, installing stone slab stairs can be challenging and time-consuming.

Things to Consider

Stone Type: Different types of stone have varying levels of durability, slip resistance, and appearance.

Finish: The finish of the stone (polished, honed, flamed, etc.) will affect its appearance and slip resistance.

Installation: Hire experienced professionals to ensure proper installation and prevent future issues.

By carefully weighing the pros and cons and considering your specific needs and preferences, you can determine if stone slab stairs are the right choice for your home.

Would you like to know more about specific types of stone or discuss your project in more detail?

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Get Your Grill On!

Written by Karen Redick on . Posted in Blog.

The 4th of July and outdoor grilling go hand in hand. Celebrating with family and friends often revolves around the grill, especially during the summer months. Classic American flavors like hot dogs and hamburgers taste best when cooked outdoors on a grill.

Today’s home chefs use backyard grills and expanded outdoor kitchen spaces to create culinary delights. Whether it’s a Bubba burger, a tomahawk steak, or vegetable kebabs, the slightly charred, flame-grilled taste adds a natural flavor.

Essential Outdoor Cooking Tools

While the grill is central to outdoor cooking, other tools like pizza ovens, smokers, rotisserie kits, and warming drawers offer unlimited menu possibilities. Designing a custom outdoor kitchen allows you to create an ideal space for entertainment and dining.

Choosing the Right Grill

Every outdoor kitchen needs a cooking surface, whether it’s a traditional open flame grill or a trendy flat top griddle. Pellet grills, which combine grilling and smoking, are also popular. Choose a heat source that suits your style: charcoal, gas, a combination of gas and charcoal, or electric. Experiment with various flavored smoke pellets or wood chips for unique tastes.

Grills come in various sizes and materials. The standard size includes four burners and measures 32-36 inches in length. Larger grills can have six or eight burners and measure 40-48 inches. Stainless steel is a popular choice for its sleek look, durability, and ease of cleaning.

Built-in vs. Portable Grills

A built-in grill offers the chance to incorporate different textures, styles, and additional elements into your kitchen. Our skilled masons and carpenters can create the outdoor kitchen of your dreams, whether you prefer wood, stone veneer, marble countertops, or slate countertops. We can customize the shape and materials to match your architectural style.

Additional Features

Enhance your outdoor kitchen with features like bar tops, fire tables, sinks, storage cabinets, refrigerators, wine coolers, kegerators, microwaves, and even dishwashers.

Get ready to grill this 4th of July and enjoy a safe and festive celebration!

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A Pool Is A Great Way To Beat The Heat

Written by Karen Redick on . Posted in Blog.

Pools come in all shapes and sizes.

The decision to install a backyard pool is significant. It’s a long-term investment, both financially and in family entertainment. The type of pool you choose is crucial, how do you decide? Look no further than Redbud! Installing a built-in backyard pool takes time, get started now.

There are primarily two types of in-ground pools: gunite and vinyl. Gunite pools, made of concrete, offer extensive customization options. Requiring a framework of rebar and a concrete-sand mixture, they can be tailored to unique shapes and additional features. Vinyl pools, constructed with modular panels, are also customizable when installed by skilled technicians.

While gunite pools offer unparalleled customization, they come at a higher cost and longer installation time. The forming process with rebar takes longer, and concrete curing can take up to four months. In contrast, vinyl pools, with their modular panels, have a shorter installation time of about two to three weeks.

Visually, it’s hard to distinguish between vinyl and gunite pools from a distance. However, the difference becomes apparent in texture. Gunite pool liners are rougher, with a natural appearance, while vinyl liners offer smooth finishes and a variety of colors, making them ideal for families with children.

Both pool types allow for various features like length, width, shapes, and in-pool amenities. Gunite, though, has an edge in supporting larger features and rougher usage due to its structural integrity, accommodating waterfalls, infinity edges, swimming dogs and more.

Maintenance is another crucial consideration. Vinyl liners require regular chemical balancing and replacement every 10 to 15 years. However, they are susceptible to pest issues like termites. Gunite pools, while avoiding termite problems, demand more maintenance due to concrete wear and tear. They also require resurfacing every decade or so.

Which is better for you, vinyl or gunite?

In summary, vinyl liners offer affordability, quicker installation, and easier maintenance, albeit with some limitations on features. Gunite pools, although more expensive and demanding, provide limitless customization and long-term durability. Both options promise years of enjoyment and increased property value.

But remember, a pool is not just a hole in the ground. After determining the most appropriate location on the property and the type of material, there are many other requirements that need to be addressed, such as, the pool equipment, the patio surround, electric and gas hook-ups, pool code compliant fencing and any other aesthetic details like plantings and lighting.

For personalized guidance on your pool design, consult with a Redbud designer who can help you choose the best fit for your needs.

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In-Ground Pools: Gunite vs. Vinyl

Written by Karen Redick on . Posted in Blog.

Considering the decision to install a backyard pool is significant. It’s a long-term investment, both financially and in family enjoyment. But with the choice of pool type being crucial, how do you decide? Look no further than Redbud!

There are primarily two types of in-ground pools: gunite and vinyl. Gunite pools, made of concrete, offer extensive customization options. Requiring a framework of rebar and a concrete-sand mixture, they can be tailored to unique shapes and additional features. Vinyl pools, constructed with modular panels, are also customizable when installed by skilled technicians.

While gunite pools offer unparalleled customization, they come at a higher cost and longer installation time. The forming process with rebar takes longer, and concrete curing can take up to four months. In contrast, vinyl pools, with their modular panels, have a shorter installation time of about two to three weeks.

Visually, it’s hard to distinguish between vinyl and gunite pools from a distance. However, the difference becomes apparent in texture. Gunite pool liners are rougher, with a natural appearance, while vinyl liners offer smooth finishes and a variety of colors, making them ideal for families with children.

Both pool types allow for various features like length, width, shapes, and in-pool amenities. Gunite, though, has an edge in supporting larger features due to its structural integrity, accommodating waterfalls, infinity edges, and more.

Maintenance is another crucial consideration. Vinyl liners require regular chemical balancing and replacement every 10 to 15 years. However, they are susceptible to pest issues like termites. Gunite pools, while avoiding termite problems, demand more maintenance due to concrete wear and tear. They also require resurfacing every decade or so.

In summary, vinyl liners offer affordability, quicker installation, and easier maintenance, albeit with some limitations on features. Gunite pools, although more expensive and demanding, provide limitless customization and long-term durability. Both options promise years of enjoyment and increased property value.

For personalized guidance on your pool design, consult with a Redbud designer who can help you choose the best fit for your needs.

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Important Things to Consider When Buying a Hot Tub

Written by Karen Redick on . Posted in Blog.

Indulging in a hot tub after a long day is an unparalleled experience. Did you know that the modern concept of hot tubs originated from Japanese onsen?

The Japanese built inns surrounding natural hot springs rich in beneficial minerals that are used for bathing, relaxation and rejuvenation. American soldiers introduced the onsen culture to the West after World War II, leading to the creation of home hot tubs. In the 1950s, the Jacuzzi brothers invented the first underwater hydrotherapy jet, revolutionizing the hot tub and spa industry.

Today, the market offers a variety of hot tub options, from prefabricated to custom-built designs. At Redbud Development, we specialize in both designing custom options and sourcing prefabricated ones to fulfill our clients’ wishes.

When considering a hot tub purchase or installation, several factors come into play. First, think about the hot tub’s location. Ideally, it should be conveniently close to your house for easy access, especially during chilly nights. Additionally, ensure it doesn’t obstruct your yard’s views, as prefabricated tubs may not be aesthetically pleasing.

Next, determine the hot tub’s intended usage. Will it mainly be for your family’s enjoyment or for entertaining guests? This will help determine the appropriate size.

We typically incorporate prefabricated hot tubs into elevated decks or patios, seamlessly integrating them into your backyard landscape. Elevating the tub minimizes the visibility of its less attractive sides and provides easier access. Consider the location of controls and drains, ensuring easy access for maintenance.

Custom hot tubs offer unparalleled luxury, often integrated with swimming pools for a cohesive aesthetic. They can be designed in various shapes and sizes, enhancing your property’s overall appeal.

Whether you opt for a prefabricated or custom hot tub, Redbud is here to guide you through the process, from design to installation. Contact us today to transform your backyard into an oasis of relaxation and luxury.

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From Mundane to Magical: How Stepping Stones Revitalize Your Yard

Written by Karen Redick on . Posted in Blog.

Stepping stones, while seemingly mundane in concept, hold tremendous potential for enhancing outdoor spaces.

These simple stones, meant for stepping, can serve various purposes, from forming walkways and sitting areas to creating transitional zones. While the definition of stepping stones might be dull, their application and impact on your outdoor space are anything but.

Traditionally, stepping stones were primarily functional, facilitating travel between the house and garden in rural settings. Each stone was strategically placed to ensure easy passage with every step. Today, while still serving their practical purpose, stepping stones have evolved into aesthetic focal points in gardens, gathering spaces, and patios.

The size, shape, color, and arrangement of stepping stones play a crucial role in defining the atmosphere of a space. In contemporary designs, sleek lines and symmetrical layouts dominate. Clean materials like slate, concrete, or flamed bluestone are popular choices for creating structured walkways and transitional zones.

Conversely, rustic settings favor a more organic approach, with serpentine lines that follow the natural contours of the land. Here, irregularly shaped stones such as bluestone and flagstone are preferred, adding a touch of natural charm. Imperfections in placement contribute to the aesthetic appeal, celebrating the beauty of nature.

Whether in a modern or rustic setting, stepping stones have the power to transform outdoor spaces, adding both functionality and visual interest.

Redbud can help you in designing and implementing stepping stone pathways that enhance the beauty and usability of your outdoor areas. Contact us today to bring your vision to life.

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Modern Custom Pool Features for Your Backyard

Written by Karen Redick on . Posted in Blog.

Swimming pools have evolved into a quintessential backyard feature, offering a blend of relaxation and technological sophistication. 

Today’s pools are fully customizable, available in various shapes and sizes, and equipped with an array of modern amenities that extend the swimming season and elevate the overall experience.

Water features, such as mesmerizing waterfalls, not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of a pool but also provide soothing sounds that promote relaxation. Additionally, they can cleverly conceal unsightly equipment or block unwanted views, creating a tranquil oasis in your backyard. The inclusion of an infinity edge, as seen here, not only maximizes the use of space but also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

LED lighting has become a popular addition to modern pools, allowing for nighttime swimming and enhancing visual appeal. With the ability to control lighting, fountains, and even pool temperature directly from a smartphone, pool management has never been more convenient or fun.

Seating options have also undergone a transformation, with innovative designs that invite relaxation directly in the pool itself. Sun shelves provide a perfect spot for lounging in shallow water, offering respite from the summer heat and creating a safe play area for children. Custom-designed hot tubs, seamlessly integrated into the pool design, offer year-round relaxation and health benefits, reminiscent of Japanese onsen experiences.

Finally, custom benching adds both style and functionality to poolside gatherings, providing ample seating for guests while connecting them with the surrounding landscape. Whether it’s a small intimate bench or a sprawling one that runs the length of the pool, these features enhance the overall ambiance and create unforgettable moments for family and friends to cherish.

In summary, modern swimming pools offer a blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience, transforming ordinary backyard spaces into extraordinary retreats tailored to meet your every need and desire.

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Brick: A Timeless Hardscape Material with Enduring Charm

Written by Karen Redick on . Posted in Blog.

Brick has stood the test of time as one of the oldest known hardscape materials, dating back over 5,000 years to the ancient Egyptians.

Initially crafted from dried clay or mud with straw as a binder, brick production evolved significantly during the Industrial Revolution with the introduction of mechanized kiln-drying techniques. By the early 1900s, brick became the predominant material in building construction.

Today, brick has seamlessly transitioned into landscape design and construction, offering a myriad of applications beyond its traditional use as a veneer. From walkways and entries to patios, pool coping, and fire pits, brick adds a touch of historical character to any outdoor space. While the classic red brick often evokes a rustic or cottage-like ambiance, advancements in technology now offer a range of colors and sizes, making brick suitable for contemporary landscapes as well.

For projects requiring a touch of heritage, reclaimed brick provides a unique solution. Salvaged from demolished structures, reclaimed bricks retain their original color and aged charm, lending new designs the timeless aesthetic of a century-old site.

While brick boasts affordability and durability, its design versatility may be somewhat limited compared to other materials. However, various patterns and orientations offer some flexibility, albeit within the confines of the traditional reddish-brown color palette. Proper installation, particularly with a concrete slab base to prevent heaving, is crucial for ensuring a stable and safe surface, especially in cooler climates prone to freeze/thaw cycles.

In conclusion, brick remains a classic choice for hardscape projects, offering enduring beauty, historical allure, and practical functionality for landscapes of all styles and eras.

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