Stress-Free Remodeling with an Interior Designer
More and more homeowners looking for a less stressful approach to remodeling are hiring an interior designer to manage their remodel projects as well as provide the design direction and architectural materials they will need.
Most Davis homeowners would like to remodel some part of their home, but how to make that happen is often overwhelming without some professional guidance. An interior designer with remodeling experience can advise you about the various stages of the remodeling process and take the fear of the unknown out of the equation.
1. Evaluating Your Project with You.
Consulting with an interior designer early in the concept phase is a good investment. Designers can help clients evaluate the scope of the project, pointing out what changes might lead to others and what projects are most cost-effective combined. First and foremost, our job is serving as the client's advocate. We get to know our clients’ budget and priorities, their long-term plans, their design direction and their likes and dislikes.
2. Developing Your Preliminary Design.
After our initial meetings, designers typically begin the preliminary design phase where we draw up scaled floor plans and elevations or perspective renderings exploring the best design options for the project objectives. After reviewing the proposed changes with the clients and making refinements, we can then help you with architectural materials selection, cabinet design, door and window selection, lighting placement and selection, appliance and plumbing fixture selection, and more.
3. Creating a Contractors Scope for Your Project.
Next, we typically write up a Contractor Scope of Work. A busy General Contractor needs to have not only a set of plans, but they also need an outline of the work they are being asked to perform and the designer often prepares this list based on the alterations we have proposed. The Contractor Scope details the demolition needed, any new foundations being poured, new roofing being added, wall, window or door changes, electrical and plumbing changes, new cabinetry, countertops, tile or appliance installations, wall texture and painting needed, etc.
4. Representing Your Interests with Contractors.
At this point, if your project involves structural changes, you may need structural engineering and construction documents, or if your project is smaller, you and your designer/project manager may be ready to interview General Contractors. Here again, having a designer available to communicate directly with the Contractor and engineer and answer any questions they may have can benefit you. The designer has typically spent significant time studying proposed changes, so their knowledge and collaboration with the Contractor can often lead to refinements and improvements.
Finally, when the construction is underway, it’s reassuring to clients to have the designer available to serve as a liaison between the contractors and homeowners whenever needed. We are often called upon to discuss unexpected challenges discovered during demolition, details of cabinetry and fixture installations, material applications and help problem-solve any issues that arise.
We are always happy when our knowledge and expertise can reduce our clients’ concerns and make them confident moving forward with their remodel plans. With an interior designer on your side, your dreams can become a reality and you’ll be thrilled with the results!
