Keep it simple

I have found that for the most part, simple equals less expensive, which is great because our tastes are simple. Simple designs are more efficient and easier to clean, and easier to build yourself. We are planning our future house to be very simple at the beginning, and we will embellish it as we go, as we see fit. This way, the house will be an ongoing project, which appeals to our need for change, and it will keep us busy finding ways to improve things.

In the beginning, don't expect to find Grohe faucets or other fancy fixtures. We are hoping to find deals on used house parts, or if we must purchase something new, it must be on sale. We have already been keeping an eye on the classified ads and have picked up a couple of exterior doors for dirt cheap. When people remodel, they just want the old stuff gone, so there are great bargains to be found locally. We prefer to reuse things if they are still in good shape or can be repaired. It just feels like the right thing to do.