W
hen meeting with potential clients, we're often surprised by their expectations on timelines for planning and starting a remodeling project. While smaller remodels may be straightforward, most involve multiple trades, suppliers, and vendors that impact planning and scheduling.

    As a design-build firm, we're typically brought in at the beginning of the planning stage to work closely with the client and architect. This collaborative approach ensures the project aligns with the client's vision, budget, and desired scope of work. The design process usually takes around four months for smaller projects and longer for larger-scale ones.

    Here are the key steps we consider essential for a successful development process:

    Choosing a contractor/designer: We help select an architect who fits the client's personality and design goals. This is crucial in ensuring a smooth project from start to finish.

    Schematic design: This phase involves taking detailed measurements of the existing space and creating a rough draft of finished plans. It's often where the project scope gets refined, and potential zoning issues are addressed.

    Design-development: We bring in subcontractors and suppliers to refine the project plan, identify potential problems, and finalize the scope of work with a tighter budget and schedule. This phase typically takes 6-8 weeks.

    Final documents: Once all previous phases are complete, we compile detailed contracts, addendums, and project schedules. The architect finalizes the plans into construction drawings for permit submission.

    Proper development of a project requires time and effort, but it's essential in delivering a finished product that meets the client's expectations while staying on schedule and budget.