The Journal

Ideas, costs, timelines and honest advice for remodeling a Chicagoland home, from the team that designs and builds them.

Kitchens · Baths · Additions · Basements · Planning

Custom farmhouse home with wrap-around porch, cedar shingle siding, dormers, and brick chimney built by Design First Builders
Remodeling an Older Home: What to Know Before You Start
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October 27, 2026

Remodeling an Older Home: What to Know Before You Start

Blog

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desk area in home
Home Office Addition: 5 Questions to Answer First
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August 6, 2021

Home Office Addition: 5 Questions to Answer First

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4 Home Addition Ideas: Mudroom, Bath, Suite, Bump-Out
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July 15, 2021

4 Home Addition Ideas: Mudroom, Bath, Suite, Bump-Out

Updated

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front of house
Second Story Addition: Full vs. Partial (How to Choose)
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July 12, 2021

Second Story Addition: Full vs. Partial (How to Choose)

Full

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6 kitchen changes that bring cooks and their guests together
6 Kitchen Changes That Bring Cooks and Their Guests Together
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June 7, 2021

6 Kitchen Changes That Bring Cooks and Their Guests Together

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new kitchen remodel
7 Signs You Need a Kitchen Remodel
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June 7, 2021

7 Signs You Need a Kitchen Remodel

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Open Vs. Closed Kitchen Designs
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April 6, 2021

Open Vs. Closed Kitchen Designs

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3 Trends to Consider When Adding a Home Addition
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April 6, 2021

3 Trends to Consider When Adding a Home Addition

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4 tips for small kitchen design
Small Kitchen Design Ideas: 7 Ways to Make It Work
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March 16, 2021

Small Kitchen Design Ideas: 7 Ways to Make It Work

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renovation
Should You Blend Your Addition Into the Existing Home?
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March 8, 2021

Should You Blend Your Addition Into the Existing Home?

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5 Trendy Ideas to Transform Your Kitchen
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February 4, 2021

5 Trendy Ideas to Transform Your Kitchen

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