Where to start?

I'm learning as I go here, but chose to push a few early parallel paths...  scope, design, and estimates for the critical high priority items, and fundraising.

Fundraising?  Yes, if you can help, please do: Fundraiser by Karen Delvecchio : Room 212 Remodel at Milwaukee Women's Center

The high priority items are the ceiling, lighting, and floor.

Ceiling and lighting first.  

It's a suspended ceiling with old school 2 x 4 panels that are not in good shape.  We looked above the ceiling and found insulation in good shape, individually cut to panel size.  The frame is hung from the concrete roof.

We considered removing the suspended ceiling altogether, but I worried about disrupting the heating/cooling profile of the room.  This is a second floor corner room, and what's above the current ceiling is literally the sloped concrete roof. And, Wisconsin.

Next option is to install new and more stylish panels.

The current lighting is not very pleasant, two wall mounted fluorescent fixtures.  New lighting will include either flush-mount or can lights in the new ceiling.

I've sent a request to my favorite contractor for the first bid!