Designing Your Future

With the budget determined, design of the renovation can begin. Professional design requires an understanding of the client’s lifestyle, traffic flow, and room relationship within the house and to the outdoors. Projects are designed to blend seamlessly, both inside and out, with existing architecture as if part of the original structure.

Promotion of energy efficiency through design is as important to renovation as to new construction. Careful placement of windows, expanded overhangs and proper tree shading can in increase ventilation and reduce energy costs.

The use of a design/build contractor offers the advantage of tracking developing project cost to assure that the design is compatible with the client’s budget. However, clients who feel the need for an independent architect should consider interviewing and hiring a contractor at the same time to assure a compatible design and construction team.

Typically, selection of materials is easier for renovation since color palette and architectural style are already established. To avoid delays it is important that most, if not all selections are made prior to construction. For clients who wish to consult with an interior designer, Plumb can recommend qualified designers to assist with material selection.

A final review and sign off of plans takes place at a preconstruction meeting between the builder, project manager and the client. Also discussed are housekeeping items such as start and stop times, daily clean up procedures, accommodations for family and pets, protection for breakables and communication schedules.

 

Remodeling Process Chart (Click to see larger image)