You’ve made the exciting decision to renovate your home – congratulations!
The question now is, how do you go about doing it? Architectural design is a highly involved but extremely gratifying process. Your team of experts will guide you through every step, from the pre-design stage to drafting the final construction drawings.
Here is an overview of what you should expect during the architectural design process:
- Pre-design. This is where your preliminary evaluation takes place. Before you start working, your designer has to get an idea of who you are, your vision, budget, and what can realistically be accomplished. Before the building begins, you have to build a working relationship with your designer. This is where the foundational vision-boarding takes place. The project still exists in the abstract, but you and your designer work together to get an idea of the result.
- Schematics. This is the first draft of your project. The designer provides you with a sketch of what the renovation will look like, using the notes that you discussed in the pre-design phase. Your designer will also fill you in on the construction schedule and budget, based on the pre-design evaluation. It is your first chance to see a visual representation of the final product. It’s also crucial that you provide input to your architect if you see anything you want to be adjusted. We prefer that changes are made during this stage rather than later on, as they can be costly and time-consuming.
- Design development. This stage involves refining the schematics and adding details that couldn’t be seen on a two-dimensional drawing. The blueprints of the project are developed using 3D rendering software. As in the schematic stage, you should review the design with your architect and point out any changes you want to make. Thanks to technology, you’ll be able to see your building come to life before your eyes!
- Construction drawings. Based on the design you have developed thus far, your architect will draw out the construction plan more precisely. These drawings will then be handed to the contracting team, and the project will begin in earnest. A project cannot break ground until the construction drawings are completed. Drawings are also used to obtain building permits required by your town or city. The finished drawings will include the fabrication details, and all measurements necessary for your project.
How Does the Process Work?
When you partner with J.T. McDermott, our unique design-build approach makes all the difference.
Phase 1: Laying the Foundations
We start with a virtual consultation, which constitutes the pre-design phase mentioned above. Our design team meets with you via Zoom, where we’ll chat about what you want from your home improvement project. From the start, we want to ensure that our partnership is a good match. For the very best result, both the client and designer need to be a part of the process. Understanding your wants and needs helps us to create your perfect home.
We define the project’s scope with a virtual tour of your home, where pictures and videos will be taken. Once we have a thorough understanding the project’s details and budget, we can begin to craft a design plan.
Phase 2: Fine-Tuning the Details
During this stage, you and your designer will work collaboratively to flesh out the project’s details. You’ll be presented with material for approval, starting with the schematics and later, the fully-developed digital design.
As you and your designer drill down on the details, you’ll receive a more accurate budget that’s based on the materials and labor needed to complete the project. Because McDermott is a design-build firm, you’ll also be presented with finishing options from our showroom so you can envision the finished product. This is the time for you to go over the design with a fine-toothed comb and make changes as you and your architect see fit.
Phase 3: Breaking Ground
With all the details hashed out and the permits in place, it’s time to begin construction on your project. At McDermott, we make it our priority to ensure you have the smoothest possible experience during the renovation. That means keeping clear, open communication lines throughout the process, providing regular updates, and addressing any concerns you may have. We aim to give you not only a beautiful, high-quality design but a stellar customer service experience too.
We’re proud to provide our clients with products and expertise that exceeds all expectations. Give us a call today, and experience the McDermott difference!
