Melanie Merz
October 1, 2025
Many homeowners we work with have a renovation project, but they worry about launching into the work while they are living far away. If you live out of state, you might wonder: How can I stay in control? Will I miss important decisions? At Great Northern Builders, we make it easy for out-of-state homeowners to stay fully informed and engaged
Designing for Two: Blending Different Priorities in Remodeling
Melanie Merz
September 23, 2025
Different priorities in remodeling don’t have to cause conflict, they often lead to more creative solutions. When couples begin a remodeling project, it’s natural for each person to bring their own ideas to the table. One might envision sleek finishes and a dramatic statement piece, while the other is focused on storage, efficiency, or long-term durability. At Great Northern Builders,
Considering a Home That Needs Renovations? 10 Essential Questions to Ask Before You Buy
Melanie Merz
August 21, 2025
Buying a home that needs renovations can be an exciting opportunity. It allows you to customize your space and potentially save money compared to a move-in-ready home. But homes that need work also come with unique challenges—unexpected costs, extended timelines, and tough decisions. Asking the right questions before you buy is crucial for avoiding surprises, planning effectively, and making a
How to Remodel Your Home After the Kids Leave for College
Melanie Merz
August 21, 2025
Sending your kids off to college often leaves more than just an empty room — it can free up entire areas of your home that were once dedicated to their daily routines. This is the perfect time to reclaim those spaces and transform them into something that fits your lifestyle today. How To Remodel Your Bonus Rooms A former playroom
Family Friendly In-Law Suite in South Berwick
Melanie Merz
August 12, 2025
Some projects stand out not just for the craftsmanship, but for the story behind them. Our recent renovation of a 1,200-square-foot space above a garage is one of those projects—a perfect example of how thoughtful design and careful planning can bring a family closer together. When we first walked into the space, it was a wide-open blank canvas. The homeowners—a
Installing New Hardwood Flooring
Melanie Merz
July 1, 2025
You’re Installing new hardwood flooring – so you need to rip out all of your existing first floor flooring… Now What? What to expect when you’re expecting new floors. Whether you’re saying goodbye to scratched-up hardwood, mystery-stained carpet, or tile that’s seen better decades, replacing all the flooring on your first floor is a big move—and a bold one. It’s
Planning Your Remodel in 2025: How to Build Your Dream Within Budget — Even With Market Changes
Allison Perreault
June 9, 2025
The Numbers Are Always Moving — But So Is Life It’s no secret that pricing has shifted in recent years. And it’s not just because of global trade policies like tariffs — it’s also local building codes, supply chain fluctuations, and the increasing demand for high-quality craftsmanship. But waiting for things to “go back down” before you remodel isn’t always
Project Spotlight: A Neutral White Primary Bathroom That Balances Beauty and Practicality
Melanie Merz
April 30, 2025
This neutral white primary bathroom feels effortlessly timeless—but what makes it truly exceptional is how it solves some of the most common challenges homeowners face when designing a bathroom: moisture, wear and tear, and long-term maintenance. Part of a well-planned home addition, the bathroom needed to integrate seamlessly with the existing home while offering modern performance. The homeowners wanted a
Holistic Health & Wellness in Home Design
Allison Perreault
April 2, 2025
At the 2025 NAHB International Builders’ Show, one major theme stood out: wellness in design isn’t just a trend—it’s becoming a fundamental part of how we shape our spaces. And it’s no longer just about physical health. Designers and homeowners alike are looking at how materials, colors, and layouts can contribute to emotional well-being, mental clarity, and even environmental harmony.
Raeside Dame Renovation in South Berwick
Melanie Merz
February 18, 2025
The goal of this Raeside-Dame renovation was to address the flow of the entryway space. The Raeside-Dame style home is known for period style aesthetics with modern amenities. Some of the period style charm wasn’t working for these homeowners. When we first met with the homeowners, their chief frustration was ‘there are too many doors’ in such a small space.