The Design Build Process Explained
Renovating or remodeling a home is a complex process that requires careful consideration of many factors. From material choices to floor plans and architecture, the design build process provides an end-to-end solution for managing the entire renovation project. This process combines design and construction elements to create a comprehensive plan for any home renovation project. Here’s a detailed description of how it works in each phase.
Phase 1: Project Research
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Meet by phone or in person to obtain information relating to their project
Take detailed site photographs or 3d scan
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Measure, inspect, and photograph spaces to be designed.
Prepare drawings that reflect current site conditions. Inventory clients furniture, art, and decorative items that are to be integrated into the new design.
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Define areas of health concern within the location
Take an initial inventory of building materials or fixtures for reuse such as kitchen cabinets, light fixtures, faucets, flooring, etc.
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Obtain an assortment of imagery from the client that shows their design style
Phase 2: Project Development
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Conduct research into property zoning, past building permits, and inspection reports.
Review zoning restrictions & building options
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Make an initial list of materials that have the potential for reuse within the location
Identify opportunities for decreasing environmental impact
Identify donation partners and locations
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Review imagery from the that shows desired design style
Style assessments & wishlists
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Submit a high and low budget estimation if necessary.
Provide guidance necessary to make initial financial decisions such as renovate vs. move.
Request initial contractor bids to get an idea of general costs.
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Based on budget considerations, streamline wishlist into a concept design and initial scope of work
Phase 3: Design Development
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Create initial 2D drawings or concept design presentation
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Meet by phone or in person to present your initial concepts
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Make changes to layout based on feedback
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Specify fixtures, furnishings, and equipment to be used in the project.
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Create 3D renderings for review
Present mood boards, renderings, and other documents necessary to communicate the final design.
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Make changes to final design based on feedback
Phase 4: Document Preparation | Quotes & Plan Filings
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Finalize contractor work list
Obtain & compare contractor quotes
Generate construction agreement and obtain signatures
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Obtain necessary pre filing inspections such as Asbestos and Lead
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File plans with DOB or Coop Board
Revise if necessary based on comments
Phase 5: Project Logistics Preparation
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Obtain quotes for all materials
Discuss budgetary concerns or areas of fluctuation
Obtain pricing for labor involved with reuse of materials
Conduct budget review
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Identify the method and location of receipt of materials
Schedule pick up and storage of of reused materials
Determine material delivery schedule & procedure with contractor
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Schedule pick up of donated appliances, windows, bathroom fixtures, lighting, doors, etc.
Schedule deconstruction of salvaged materials
Arrange for pick up and storage of of reused materials
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The overall project schedule identifies key milestones and timeline estimates for the completion of work.
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Review and approve supplier shop drawings and finish samples as related to the original designs
Place orders of all project materials and furnishings.
Update and share project schedule reflecting contractor work and order lead times
Phase 6: Construction Begins
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Visit the job site on a regular basis to check on progress of work
Conduct routine walkthroughs with contractor to confirm quality control.
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Prepare job site deliveries in advance per the material schedule
Phase 7: Final Installations & Inspections
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Prepare documents for final inspections by DOB if required.
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Conduct a thorough and detailed site walkthrough with the contractor
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Have the job site cleaned well! They tend to be really gross and not quite ready for move in.
Phase 8: Deficiency Management
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As the project concludes we visit the site to inspect all the works & prepare a schedule of defects if required, We’ll suggest remedies for the defects and assist in managing corrections.
Produce a detailed punch list of outstanding work for the contractor.
Asses if more money is needed to resolve outstanding work.
Conduct inspections of the punch list for quality and accuracy.
Renovating and remodeling a home is a complex process that involves making material choices, designing architecture, creating floor plans, and managing contractors. The design build process provides an end-to-end solution to renovation management by combining design and construction into one package. This process helps homeowners in NYC to better manage their renovation projects, from the initial concept through to the completion of construction. Designers will create detailed plans for the project based on the homeowner's vision while contractors ensure that all materials are sourced correctly and installed properly. The design build process simplifies the entire renovation experience by streamlining each step of the project from conception to completion.