Curious who you should contact first when planning your dream home or space? Keep scrolling; we will answer that for you!
Establish Your Design Team: The Visionaries Behind Your Project
We recommend starting by assembling your Design Team, laying the foundation for a collaborative and successful project. This team typically comprises an Interior Designer or an Architect and Interior Designer.
Scenario 1: Building a New Home
If building a new home, begin with an architect to define lot allowances and building structure. Bring in your design team before finalizing the floor plan for collaborative input, ensuring the best option for you and your family.
Scenario 2: Major Renovation or Addition
For significant projects, discuss your scope with potential Interior Design companies. Note that not all Interior Design companies provide building permit packages, essential for major renovations. Consider hiring an architect if necessary.
Align Interior Design produces permit packages as part of our deliverables, offering a comprehensive solution.
Scenario 3: Interior Renovation with Minimal Structural Changes
For interior renovations without major structural changes, hiring an Interior Design company for required documentation is usually sufficient.
Pro Tip: Design-Build companies typically have in-house design teams or preferred interior designers with whom they prefer to work with. The advantage of using a design-build company lies in the seamless in-house collaboration. However, it’s important to note that you might be partnered with a designer who doesn’t fully align with your vision. If design style and collaboration are significant factors for you, I recommend interviewing the recommended designers before making your decision.
The Advantage of Hiring Your Design Team First
Prioritizing your design team allows you to develop a plan, including a general layout and scope of work, before engaging your build team. This preplanning allows for an apples-to-apples conversation allowing you to focus on their processes and personality fit rather than solely on estimated build costs. The biggest difference we notice between build companies their communication style and software they use to guide you through your renovation or new build.
But Don’t Wait Too Long to Bring in Your Build Team!
When you start building your design team, you’re laying the groundwork for well-informed decisions and a carefully planned project. But here’s a friendly tip from Align Interior Design Ltd: get your construction team involved early on.
Our suggestion? Lock in your preferred contractor before finalizing permits. It not only gives you a project estimate but also sets the builder for your permit submission. On a personal note, having the build team onboard early is a valuable resource. They can help you stay on track with your budget and advise if any adjustments to the project scope are needed.
Why Local, Established, Referred, Builders Matter
Interviewing local builders, also referred to as contractors, is crucial for the successful execution of your project. This process allows you to leverage their knowledge of local regulations, suppliers, construction practices and warranties.
Important Note: Did you know that no license is required to become a renovator in BC and there is no oversight from the provincial government? – You are not alone. This places the onus on the homeowner to make a careful decision when choosing a dependable and well-regarded home construction company for their project.
Pro Tip: When talking to your design team, ask about their go-to build teams. Having established connections makes the whole process smoother, ensuring better communication and an overall more pleasant experience for you!
In Summary, We’d Love to Hear From You
The key to a successful renovation lies in pre-planning and assembling the right team. Prioritize hiring a team that will collaborate for a well-executed renovation journey. Have any questions? Email me at in**@al*****.ca , I’d love to hear from you.
Planning your renovation? We have a free resource for you!
