Why Design-Build?
A remodeling project can be very fragmented, with the owner, architect and contractor all operating in distinct and isolated silos. The Design-Build approach creates a single sphere, within which these separate elements are unified as a team, attacking the project together from all angles. Cost is a very important aspect of the project, and Design-Build addresses it from the beginning, and then throughout the evolution of the design process, with pricing information readily available. This team approach can significantly shorten the design development process and allow the construction to begin more quickly than with other approaches. The owner will have a single point of contact managing all aspects of the project from conceptual design to completion. Gallagher Remodeling will oversee the process, expertly handling questions and surprises which will inevitably arise.
Initial Phone Call
An initial call allows us to better understand how you view your home and your project, as well as to get basic information about location, budget, and timeline. We can also answer questions about our process and ask about your approach. Talking about these and other topics by phone will help us to discover if our company and its approach would be a good fit for your expectations about the process and the project. If we agree there is a good fit, we’ll schedule an Initial Consultation at your home during business hours.
Initial Consultation
Our most important job is to listen. During the initial consultation, we’ll review your renovation goals, design style, and budget. We’ll survey the existing space and infrastructure. We’ll want to make sure that we’re exploring the right design options to create a space that functions well for you and your family. Once we agree on the general project description and a budget range, we’ll ask you to retain our company to develop the design.
Design Development
During the design phase, we will identify your preferences and priorities, and look closely at the technical aspects of building the project. When appropriate, we provide our clients with realistic three-dimensional renderings of interiors and exteriors that can be viewed from any perspective. This allows us to visually understand what is being proposed – we find that it’s much easier for homeowners to make decisions when they can SEE what they’re getting.
Another stumbling block for homeowners is coordinating their aesthetic, or “style,” with the multitude of products and finishes available in the market. Gallagher Remodeling will “do the shopping for you” by recommending fixtures, fittings, and finishes to complete your project so it looks the way you want it to when it is finished – all while monitoring the cost of these products relative to the budget. If you fall in love with a more expensive item, we can balance that with cost savings somewhere else in the project.
Remodeling Agreement
Once we all agree on the design concept for your project, we provide you with a detailed scope of work in a remodeling agreement for construction. Everything is spelled out and reviewed with you to identify remaining decisions or areas requiring more specificity or adjustment. Upon approval of this agreement, we complete an even more detailed iteration of design work, to further clarify the project and to develop documentation and plans for permitting and construction.
Pre-Construction
Before construction begins, you will meet with our construction staff and project manager to discuss the day-to-day logistics of our working in your home and any considerations unique to your living situation.
Construction
During the construction phase, the project manager will be your primary contact. Throughout the process you will receive regular updates as each aspect of the job is completed and notification of any details that need your attention. Of course, every effort is made to minimize disruption to your family, your living space, and your neighbors during construction.
Final Walk Through
During the final walkthrough, every detail of the project is reviewed. The job is not complete until you’re satisfied.