In 1996, the CDCP created the RenPlan^® program to help Pittsburgh-area homeowners get effective planning advice from design professionals. The goal of the program is to encourage investments in existing homes and neighborhoods in order to add value through good design. 

Any homeowner in the Pittsburgh region is eligible for the service, which includes the opportunity to meet one-on-one with a design professional to discuss the homeowner’s renovation plans.  While the RenPlan^® program consultants do not supply drawings or specifications, they do give advice to help homeowners prioritize their needs and plan effective renovations.

For a fee of $150 the RenPlan^® program matches an architect, landscape architect, or interior designer who will conduct a personal design consultation at their home. Consultants provide professional advice to help get renovation planning off to the right start. The homeowner receives a valuable Resource Guide developed especially to assist Pittsburgh-area property owners in connecting with local services.

At the meeting, the consultant and homeowner walk through and around the home, review renovation goals and questions, and develop an Action Plan.  The Action Plan sets forth all the discussion topics covered in the consultation, and outlines the next steps the homeowner should take to achieve their goals.  No drawings are done as a result of the consultation, but the homeowner will receive a copy of the Action Plan for their records.  The consultation can last up to two hours. 

A RenPlan^® program consultant can discuss important issues such as:

• Potential structural improvements and modifications
• Materials
• Paint colors
• Historical integrity
• Landscaping
• Range of probable costs