FAQ
Remodeling Questions

Should I remodel with today's market?

That is a complex question. It is always good to ask for your Realtor's™ opinion. Sometimes you need the advice of your contractor or designer as well. I have told a few people not to remodel, that the market does not support their decision, or it will be too costly to fix a floor plan issue.

Do you work with specific contractors or subcontractors?

We have our favorites, and the subs we prefer provide the most critical installations for the project. We know their quality of work and their dependability. We can work with your contractors and subcontractors; however, we should meet with them prior to you retaining us for your project. When we have experience working with someone, our history enables shorthand communications. They know how we work, what we expect, how to communicate with us and our quality standards.

Do you work with specific architects or builders?

We have worked with numerous architects and builders over the years. It is vital that the scope of work for each party be clearly defined before retaining any of us for your team. There should be respect and chemistry on the team for your project. We will have disagreements, it is how they are handled and how challenges are resolved that is the most critical part of the job.

What pitfalls should I know about before beginning my project?

Each type of work has its share of issues. Just ask for examples from each designer.

How much time should I allow for planning the project?

Most projects involve at least 4 – 12 months of planning. 4 months would be a very small project with limited scope. The beginning phase of our work is the most time-intensive. This is also when our billing is the highest if we work by the hour. Planning is one of the most important steps you can take. You don't want surprises due to poor planning. They can be very costly.

Why can't I change my mind after the job has begun?

You can change your mind, but it is costly. Change orders cost so much because they totally disrupt the schedule. Even something that seems to be a small change can wreak havoc on the carefully planned order of work. Ask me for some examples...there are some lulus!

Why are there days that no one is at the job site?

There may be a delay in a material shipment or the contractor or subs may be waiting for an inspection. There should be a few slack days built into the schedule to allow for unforeseen problems such as defective materials, a prior step not being complete, illness, weather and other things that aren't anticipated.

Why should a designer be visiting the job site once the design is complete?

There are many reasons you will want us to go to the job site:

• We know the most about how the design should be interpreted – even more than the contractor or subcontractors.
• We may have to trouble-shoot an installation or material challenge. It happens on every job.
• We often catch mistakes before it is too late or too costly to fix them. Ask me about the pink tub story sometime.
• Even with the most precise plans that are designed within 1/4”, once we see them in 3 dimensions, there may need to be adjustments to get the best possible result.

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