The next step is typically an in-home visit. For this appointment we ask you to set aside an hour. It is critical that everyone involved in the decision-making process be present for this discussion. Communication is vital as we are at the point in the process where some preliminary decisions will help guide the design process. Once we have determined a broad scope of work and identified your goals, we will discuss budgetary restraints. Our goal here is to agree on a budget range that we feel will realistically give you the end results you are dreaming about. This is undoubtably the most difficult and important step. Who has not gone shopping and experienced sticker shock. These types of projects are not something most people do on a regular basis. Unfortunately, the internet and television give unrealistic perceptions that often leave people deflated. We will complete a Project Development Agreement at this point which spells out the scope of work and target budget range. The fees for the Project Development Agreement generally range from $500 to $4,000. This covers some of the costs involved in project development. Some of the tasks done in this phase are: technical walk-through, design & construction questionnaire, pre-construction photos, field sketches, detailed measurements, create concept drawings, develop preliminary budgets, develop preliminary specifications, conduct design review meetings, provide fixture and finish guidance,  work with building inspectors & handle any code issues, create material take-offs, gather fixture & material pricing, obtain specialty trade partner proposals, creating floorplans, create 3D renderings, develop design ideas. All of this is required in order to present you with a fixed price contract. One of the many advantages to our process is for you to be able to see exactly what your finished space will look like. The other choice is to use your imagination and hope that what you expect matches up with what your contractor plans to create, this is a recipe for disaster. In conclusion, we will schedule a design review meeting generally in 1-2 weeks depending on the scope of the project.

Like all of our interactions, attendance and involvement of all decision makers is critical. This can often be a longer meeting than you would expect because most clients have no idea of the number of decisions that are involved. It is best to set aside 90 minutes for this meeting. We will review conceptual drawings and ideas in an effort to hone in on your wants and desires while at the same time gaining as much wisdom as possible to complete the design. Once we are confident that we are all on the same page and moving in the right direction, we will set up our next meeting in 1-2 weeks depending on the scope of the project.

At this meeting we will review final concept drawings, scope of work, selections and final fixed price agreement. Often, we will provide a few optional upgrades or concessions in an effort to fit the project into the desired budget range. At this time, we will discuss these options with you. Upon ratification of the Construction Agreement and initial deposit, we will begin the pre-construction planning phase.

Approximately 1-2 weeks before we begin construction on your project, we will have a meeting on-site to introduce you to the project manager who will be in charge of the production phase of your project. We will do a general overview walk-through led by your design consultant with both you and the project manager paying attention. The purpose of this meeting is to ensure that we are all on the same page and serves as one more opportunity to catch any details or misunderstanding that may have taken place before construction begins. We will address daily schedules and any last-minute items that should be done prior to project start-up. For example, removal of personal belongings, empty cabinets, moving furniture etc.

Nearing the end of the project, your design consultant will schedule a “Final” visit. They will be excited to see the completed space and to hear about your experience. At this point we like to get nice pictures to share with others. Much of our success is based upon repeat clients and client referrals. If you could be thinking of friends or family that may be interested in our services, we would greatly appreciate that information. After the project is complete, please feel free to call us with any questions or concerns. Every project we do has a one-year warranty. We will be calling you in about 10 months just to check in and see if there are any minor details that may need our attention prior to your anniversary date.