Great design and proper planning make a successful home remodel. These are key ingredients in the design-build remodeling method where designers and contractors work together under one roof. But what does the design stage of this unified method actually look like?

In this article, we break down the different steps of the design process that takes place before a hammer or nail is even touched. Plus, we look at why engaging with a designer early in the remodeling process is so important.

The Design Process

A well-defined and delivered design process is at the heart of every incredible Lafayette home makeover. Here’s how it usually plays out when working with an established design-build firm.

Phase 1 – Evaluation and Initial Planning

An on-site evaluation is conducted where detailed measurements and pictures are taken of the area being redesigned. Existing plans are drawn up and then modified according to your desired goals, while keeping your budget range in mind. At the same time, local building codes and zoning restrictions are researched and considered.

A budget proposal and scope of work are then created, with further feedback and discussion welcomed. Once a baseline for the project has been agreed, things move into phase two.

Phase 2 – Detailed Design and Selections

This phase is where the design process is fleshed out until you, the homeowner, are delighted and ready for construction to begin. You’ll meet with your design team a few times during this phase to ensure the home of your dreams is as closely realized as possible.

Further changes are made to the preliminary layouts until everything is perfect. Then, interior and exterior elevations and section drawings are created, typically with cabinetry or plumbing/lighting fixtures to show heights and centers. Simultaneously, an electrical plan is formulated for all lighting systems and outlets.

Depending on the depth and complexity of your home remodeling project, a team of electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, and sometimes even engineers will visit your property to conduct further checks. The goal is to eliminate any surprises before construction begins.

While this is going on, more product and finish selections are explored, analyzed, and selected, often via trips to showrooms with you and together on the internet.

Updated estimates for tiles, flooring, cabinets, countertops, and more, are compiled. Then, an estimator completes a final project estimation.

Everything is then presented to you for agreement on the final budget number, plans, selections, and scope of work. From there, it all goes to the production side, and they order everything, schedule everything, and prepare it for construction.

Key Benefits of Working with Experienced Designers

Home remodeling is a complicated process. There’s more than just aesthetic design to consider. That’s why working with an experienced designer can make all the difference.

When you work with skilled professional designers as part of a design-build team, you get people who have the following qualities:

• Knowledge of industry standards and codes so your project remains compliant with the regulations and standards set by your local authorities.
• Familiarity with a wide range of ever-changing products available in the market, so the best products are chosen to fit your design style, budget, and functional needs.
• Ability to use the latest in modern technology and computer-aided design software to draw plans that are highly accurate and detailed.
• Attention to detail so every little facet of the project is considered, and potential issues are ironed out, so your project runs smoothly.
• Experience in providing perspectives and ideas you may not have considered, revealing new ways to use your space and helping you achieve the look and feel that you want.

An experienced designer saves you time, money, and headaches while helping you identify opportunities for an even more stunningly beautiful home.

Why Engaging with a Designer Early Is So Important

Engaging with a designer early in the remodeling process is essential to the success of your project. As we’ve covered, a skilled design-build designer can provide valuable insights, offer alternative solutions, and ensure your project is executed according to your vision.

For the layperson, picking design themes and products can be exciting but exhausting and confusing when doing it yourself. However, a professional has tried and tested methods for identifying designs, fixtures, and fittings, saving you time, stress, and frustration.

And if you have clear ideas already, what you envision might not actually be feasible or meet the required building codes. Again, a skilled designer can provide you with alternative solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Engaging with a designer early in the process also fosters a collaborative approach that’s the hallmark of the entire design-build process. You get to explore your ideas and dreams with a professional designer sitting beside you, guiding you gently through the options and possibilities.

Professional designers know how to maximize the value of your investment and, as a result, the value of your property.

How a Designer Acts as an Advocate for Homeowners

A professional designer within the design-build model is a whizz at design and an exceptional advocate for any homeowner.

They make sure things are tailored to your specific needs. For example, you might have some products you want to incorporate into your home design. The designer might know even better products that you will find just as pleasing, if not more so.

Your professional designer will help you walk through your ideas and scenarios to ensure the products you choose will be safe, reliable, and work best for the long term.

Working with a design-build firm, where everything is under one roof, means your designer can also coordinate with different team members. In addition, since the construction team and designer work together, they are constantly on a mission to deliver the best results, so it’s easier to identify fixes, source products, and make adjustments when needed.

All of which make your project go a lot smoother.

Work with a Design-Build Firm Like Riverside Construction

Riverside Construction, founded in 2008, is the go-to professional design-build team that has earned the respect and confidence of discerning homeowners in the Lafayette and West Lafayette areas.

With an award-winning team of highly skilled and experienced professionals in a range of fields, we excel at listening to client ideas and then translating those dreams into reality. We can help you decide on a direction, provide guidance on remodeling issues, and be with you every step of the way to ensure your dream home is achieved.

Contact us now to schedule an initial conversation about your upcoming remodel. We’ll happily answer your questions, listen to your ideas, soothe your worries, and work with you to finalize your plans.