Process
People find us at all different times during their remodeling/construction process. We're happy to work with you whether you've already identified the builder you want to work with, or if you need help narrowing it down (or if our help begins and ends with décor, you don't need a builder at all). The process is slightly different depending on which path you're on...
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Path 1 - You're already working with a builder:
On this path, we follow whatever process your builder has. Some builders have a designer on staff and they handle all of the selections. In that case, we handle the architecture (and the décor if you're interested in that service). Most builders have different milestones in the design process, and those milestones will dictate how much design work gets done in each phase. For example, one builder might get through enough of the design process to understand the scope of work, and then ask for an additional deposit, while another might not want another deposit until you sign a construction contract with them. Some builders are happy enough to know that they'll be building whatever project we design together, and in those cases, we follow the general overview below. |
Path 2 - We'll help you select a builder:
If you read the book, you'll know that we are big advocates of the design/build process, especially with remodeling projects. For that reason, we encourage you to choose a builder before we start designing. That way, they are part of the team and you have a sense of your costs up front. We have relationships with some of the best builders in the area, and after chatting about your goals and priorities, we can set up a few conversations. Some people prefer to design a project and send it out for bid, choosing their builder after a competitive bidding process. This is our least preferred way of working, but it does make sense in some situations. If this is the way you think you'd prefer to work, we can talk about the pros and cons upfront so there aren't any surprises later on. |
General overview
Whether we're on Path 1 or Path 2, the design process is generally broken up into 3 main sections: architecture, interior design, and décor. We can, and are happy to, help with as much of those as you'd like. Together, we typically focus on the architecture first, discussing multiple options, reviewing them in 3D (and VR if you want!), and narrowing them down to one scope. Once we have a better sense of the scope, we can focus on big picture selections - think overall palette and mood. And as we move further into the process, everything becomes a bit more granular, both in terms of the decisions we help you make, as well as the drawings and documents we produce. Ultimately we arrive at the point where you know exactly what your project is going to look like and all design and selections decisions are finalized before construction begins.
Whether we're on Path 1 or Path 2, the design process is generally broken up into 3 main sections: architecture, interior design, and décor. We can, and are happy to, help with as much of those as you'd like. Together, we typically focus on the architecture first, discussing multiple options, reviewing them in 3D (and VR if you want!), and narrowing them down to one scope. Once we have a better sense of the scope, we can focus on big picture selections - think overall palette and mood. And as we move further into the process, everything becomes a bit more granular, both in terms of the decisions we help you make, as well as the drawings and documents we produce. Ultimately we arrive at the point where you know exactly what your project is going to look like and all design and selections decisions are finalized before construction begins.
Ready?
Let's take the first step toward a happier home:
