When Carolyn Leonhardt and her husband, Ted, sold their Seattle graphic design business more than a decade ago, she had no idea she would find herself in the home design/renovation business. After successfully remodeling three small cottages in Napa Valley, word got out and Leonhardt found herself with several clients looking for help with their renovations. And then they led to more projects.
Leonhardt’s remodels are not lavish affairs, but they’re sensibly and tastefully refurbished and have taught her where to spend and where to save. How does she pull it off" As she tells us, ?I study the space to understand how it does and does not work, and I try to use what’s there when possible. Sometimes cosmetic work is enough?new cabinets, new appliances, etc. Other times, major surgery is required, but careful planning and smart choices can keep costs down.”Â� Read on to learn Leonhardt’s secrets. Photography by Douglas Sterling for Remodelista.

Above: In a 1920s Napa cottage, Carolyn Leonhardt opened up the roof and added French doors with transom windows above to let light into the living room.
1. Pay attention to the foundation. If you’re buying a house, ask the agent about setbacks and lot coverage. Not every house is expandable. Always examine the foundation before you buy; replacement is expensive and disruptive. It’s almost always most cost-effective to maintain the footprint and envelope of the existing building.
2. Make a...