Renovation Solutions: Remodeling can free up time, money spent on older homes

"My nephews love it because there is a bunk bed down there for them," Robinson says. "I am the coolest aunt ever!"

The basement has become a place for more than just guests, though. Robinson says she is surprised by how much time she spends down in the basement now. "It is very inviting," she says. "I have spent more time in the basement in these past seven weeks than I did in the seven years that I lived there before. The basement was such a dungeon before. I never wanted to spend time there."

In addition to the cosmetic updates, Rosann added all new windows, doors and insulation in the walls that wasn't there before. Now, she loves living in her home.

"My house is very me," she explains. "It feels like my personality now.

Instead of me trying to fit into my space, my space finally fits me."

Architects Ann Robinson and Annie V. Schwemmer are the founders of Renovation design Group, www.renovationdesigngroup.com, a local design firm specializing in home remodels.