When should we contact designers

11 years ago

For the pros. In two years we are planning a major renovation/remodel of our home. To give you a scope of the work, we are going to do a full renovation of the basement to include a repositioned bathroom, bar installation, fireplace and home theatre. We are also going to do a full renovation of our kitchen to include knocking down two walls to expand it and relocating plumbing and gas lines. We are going to replace the hardwood floor throughout, remodel the powder room, and relocate the laundry room upstairs and convert it into a dog friendly mud room. We will add built ins to the office, new banisters and spindles to two staircases. Upstairs we are going to renovate the master bath which will include expanding the shower, relocating the WC and installing heat radiant flooring. We will also do some remodeling of the master bedroom and three other bedrooms. All other baths will remain the same. Given that how close to the start date should we contact a designer to get the ball rolling? BTW, we plan on moving out during the process. Thanks for all responses!

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Comments (4)

Kelley Dockrey
11 years ago
you need an architect to start, not a designer. then, have several proposed plans and then I would start involving a designer to help you make a final decision about design elements that may affect the final plans. From my experience, the architect should be able to help you with a large part of yhe structural design elements. specialized designers such as kitchen and bathroom designers can be valuable at this point too. if you have trouble visualizing what you want, then I would involve the designer sooner vs. later especially if you have trouble communicating your ideas to the architect.
Henry Norcom thanked Kelley Dockrey
Henry Norcom
Original Author
11 years ago
Thank you so much for your response. It is confusing trying to figure out who comes first in the process. My wife and I have a very good idea of what we want, but just did not know how to start the process. Thanks again!
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PRO
Design Loft Inc. - Custom Home Design
11 years ago
I would recommend meeting with an architect or experienced home designer soon to discuss your project. During this initial consultation you can share your ideas and vision and the architect can give you suggestions based on structural elements, local building codes and their experience. You can then take this information and make a plan on how best and when to proceed with the design process.
Henry Norcom thanked Design Loft Inc. - Custom Home Design
PRO
Maison de Kristine
11 years ago
Foremost know your budget (def. Max amount you are going to spend) then go interview some Architects. Also interview contractors that may work with architects.

It's very important to have all your general selections or wish lists ready, which can be hard, so I would recommend hiring a designer if necessary to help you with that.and sometimes there are designers that know enough CAD and structure so you can get a meaningful floor plan. A designer can give you direction on all these selections.

windows, doors, floors (carpet, wood, tile), tile, sinks, faucets, doors hardware, electrical fixtures, mirrors, showers, toilets, etc etc.

I can email you the list if you want.
Henry Norcom thanked Maison de Kristine