10 Step Design Process Breakdown
Starting a remodeling project is a big deal. Chances are you are preparing to shell out thousands of dollars and expecting you might demolish a few walls, rip up your floor, tear out some cabinets, etc... The best way to ensure you have a sucessful remodel is to create a detailed, thorough design plan. Below is a breakdown of my 10 Step Process to help give you a better understanding of what to expect throughout the design process.
Step 1
Initial Phone Call
To begin the process, simply give me a call. This call is typically about 20-30 minutes. If I am in a meeting, I will do my best to get back to you within 24-48 hours. The purpose of this initial call is to begin the conversation about what you want to change in your home and how I can help you do it. If my services seem like a good fit, we can schedule an In-Home Consultation and keep the process moving forward.
Step 3
As-Built Survey
The first step in designing your remodel. I will again visit your home to take accurate measurements of your existing space gathering all of the information I will need to begin planning your project. I use the information to create an accurate 3D Model of the existing space to serve as a starting point for the design process. I will document the overall floor plan, cabinetry, plumbing fixtures, and all relevant electrical components. I will also take photos of the space to further assist in the design process.
A typical As-Built survey takes 2 to 4 hours.
Step 2
In-Home Consultation
I will visit your home and gather more information and specifics about the dream remodel you are looking for. This is an opportunity for you to show me in person what is and is and is not not working about the current design of your home. We will discuss at length what you are looking for from a functional perspective as well as your ideal aesthetics. After this meeting I will send you a formal estimate & contract for my design services within 48 to 72 hours.
Step 4
Feasibility Assessment
A feasibility assessment is an important part of the process. Here I will determine if the proposed remodel or addition is constructable and aligns any and all applicable construction code restrictions. I will also investigate the practicality and viability of your proposed remodel to ensure avoiding costly mistakes that might require a re-design. The overall goal is to determine if the proposed project is both feasible and aligns with your goals and is worth the investment.
Step 5
Concepts
With all of the information I’ve collected thus far, I will create 2 to 3 Concepts that accomplish your goals. During this phase we will explore different layout arrangements and placements for components such as walls, appliances and cabinetry.
Your feedback is crucial and will guide me as I refine the concepts based on your preferences. The end goal of this first step is for us to collaborate on a final concept fom which to develop the design of your project. After this step the design is more or less set and I will begin creating your Permit Drawings / Construction Documents. Additional fees will be charged to make design changes after this step. See Pricing.
Step 6
Product & Material Selection
Now that we know the general layout and style of your remodel, it’s time to begin filling in the specific products and materials to being your design to life. This includes things like cabinetry, appliances, countertops, flooring, backsplashes, lighting, plumbing fixtures. This can happen one of two ways.
Option 1: I can curate specific products and features based on your style preferences and needs you’ve communicated.
Option 2: I can send you a list of the products we need for the project and you can pick these items out yourself.
Step 7
Finalize Design Plans
After you’ve completed all of your product & material selections, you won’t have much to do. I will however be working hard to put the finishing touches on the design plans for your project. Once the design plans are complete, we will review them together one last time to ensure they reflect your dream remodel including the smallest details. I will also send them to your contractor to ensure my plans meet their expectations and have all the necessary details for construction to begin.
Step 8
Submit for Permits
While you won't have to handle them yourself, your build team will keep you updated on the status of your project permits. Any project that involves major structural, electrical, plumbing, or zoning changes will require a work permit. Depending on the complexity of the project and the county it is located in, your permits can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
Step 10
Start enjoying your new space!
This is when all your hard work pays off! After your building inspector has completed their final inspection and your contractor has resolved any punch list items, you’ll be ready to move into your new space and begin move in and enjoy your new space.
I sincerely welcome your review of my services at the end of Step 10.
Step 9
Build your Dream Home / Remodel
It’s no secret that remodeling can be an invasive process that distrupts your day-to-day life. It’s important to meet with your contractor to put together a plan for how your home will function while construction is happening. While your home is under construction, I will be monitoring progress and attending a few meetings on-site to ensure the design is taking shape in the way we envisioned.