An exterior elevation drawing is analogous to a photo showing what each side of the house looks like from the outside. The drawing provides the architect with key information about the building heights – overall roof height, windows, doors, decks, etc. The Standard level of detail option also shows the ornamentation and trim which distinguish the building’s architectural style. How do you acquire elevation data? We acquire most of the elevation data inside while taking the floor plan data. For instance: We set floor to floor heights in stairwells or foyers We shoot from window sills to finished floor elevations, and then to grade outside We obtain window and door heights and details while taking floor plan data If we can see the ridge(s) or the attic is accessible, we'll obtain most of the roof data from inside as well.

Thorsen Construction is an award-winning general contractor focusing on luxury renovations, additions and new homes in Washington D.C. Metropolitan area. In every instance, Thorsen partners with architects and homeowners to deliver an exceptional, turn-key construction experience. For more information, please visit our website at www.thorsenconstruction.us .

’25 years ago’ design shows — that’s why this young family needed DiD to create a whole house transitional transformation in their newly purchased home. We refreshed or completely recreated every single room in this 5000sf Moorestown home. From removing the family room and entry murals, to shrinking down the overpowering fireplace, changing lighting, and custom creating furniture and built-ins to suit the needs of this energetic family of 6. Light and bright was the goal in most instances, with pocketed touches of moody blues and grays. We also accessorized and installed new window treatments throughout. Take a look and admire the new view. Now this family can truly say this home is ‘theirs’ in style and deed!

I upholstered the chairs in Lee Jofa wool and purchased an antique hand embroidered kimono, then deconstructed to create the back panels to these dining room chairs. I believe that levity is an element that should exist in every home. In this instance, the Murano handblown glass Cranes are caught mid-migration walking across the deco dining room table.

The chance to build a lakeside weekend home in rural NC provided this Chapel Hill family with an opportunity to ditch convention and think outside the box. For instance, we traded the traditional boat dock with what's become known as the "party dock"… a floating lounge of sorts, complete with wet bar, TV, swimmer's platform, and plenty of spots for watching the water fun. Inside, we turned one bedroom into a gym with climbing wall - and dropped the idea of a dining room, in favor of a deep upholstered niche and shuffleboard table. Outdoor drapery helped blur the lines between indoor spaces and exterior porches filled with upholstery, swings, and places for lazy napping. And after the sun goes down....smores, anyone? John Bessler

The goal for this 2000+ sq.ft. basement renovation was to create a new area that could be enjoyed by the entire family. An eye-catching three-part custom designed bar area in contrasting colors and natural stone served as the basement’s centerpiece. Wellborn Hancock Onyx cabinetry and crown molding accompanied by white quartz countertops were chosen to fit the bill. The backsplash stone façade on two walls added both texture and warmth. Stainless steel appliances including a bar-sized dishwasher, drawer-style microwave, under-mount sink, ice maker, and wine refrigerator provided a sleek finish throughout. Luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed throughout the entire basement to ensure durability for everyday usage. With floating wood shelving,
a double-door closet, roomy couch area, and a 70-inch TV mounted to the wall, the family room area will please both our clients, and their teenage children. The two-doored “Jack and Jill” style bathroom was purposely situated between the guest/ office area and family room to ensure accessibility and privacy. A custom glass shower with glass tiled floor and wall accents coordinated with the Onyx colored white under-mount sinks. Access to a utility closet was tastefully disguised with a custom built-in shelved door created to look just like a bookcase. We call it their invisible closet door. Now that construction is over, let the fun begin!

Decorating a space with eclectic pieces isn't simply about introducing similar colour, texture or the right proportion/scale. The true beauty of a well decorated eclectic space is hidden within the art of harmonizing details. Each item has its own unique character which is seeking attention. If there isn't a sense of balance between the items, each piece loses its distinctiveness because its competing against the other items in the room. For instance, the hand carved details within the Asian curved armchair is in great contrast to the linear lines of the modern leather sofa, two completely different styles and looks. However the linking element is that both items have a metal detail at the same eye level which naturally allows the eye to transition from one piece to the other while maintaining it's appreciating of the different style that each piece conveys.

A conservatory can be added to even quite narrow lots and small dark houses. In this instances we open up the wall separating the kitchen and dining room, and opened up both to the new rear conservatory. In doing so we brought much-needed light into dark interiors, and established a positive link from those interiors to the terrace and garden beyond.

The client had a deep pantry closet which made it difficult to see what was in the back. In order to decide on what custom pullout drawer depths they wanted, they took everything out of their existing pantry and measured the items they wanted to group together, for instance, canned cat food, stacked two deep. Or in another high back pull out, oils and vinegars. Then they selected the depth drawers they wanted, and we custom-ordered drawers to the width of the pantry and the depth. So now everything is in its place and everything has its place. They especially love the wide custom spice drawer as they can fit 40+ spices in there. Now their pantry is uniquely suited to their needs and is also much more efficient in its use of space both vertically and depth-wise.

2-story addition to this historic 1894 Princess Anne Victorian. Family room, new full bath, relocated half bath, expanded kitchen and dining room, with Laundry, Master closet and bathroom above. Wrap-around porch with gazebo. Photos by 12/12 Architects and Robert McKendrick Photography.

Thorsen Construction is an award-winning general contractor focusing on luxury renovations, additions and new homes in Washington D.C. Metropolitan area. In every instance, Thorsen partners with architects and homeowners to deliver an exceptional, turn-key construction experience. For more information, please visit our website at www.thorsenconstruction.us .

Mid-sized elegant open concept dark wood floor and brown floor living room photo in New York with green walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and a tv stand

In this photo, you get a look at the kitchen in low lighting, which shows off how truly bright and useful the LED lighting can be in such instances, as it easily illuminates the countertop below the wall cabinets. Photo Credit: Andrew Long

When people think of remodeling their homes, they often immediately consider starting with rooms like the dining area, living room, or basement – rooms where the most amount of people spend the most amount of time. While those rooms are important, recent remodeling trends are pointing toward the popularity of re-creating a more private place – the master bath. In fact, we are in the midst of The Year of the Master Bath. Current home improvement practices show that, not only is redoing your master bath a fun and stylish choice, but it also is a wise way to add value to your home. For homes built in the 1990’s with master baths over 200 square feet in size, now is the ideal time to remodel and upgrade to a more efficient, stylish, and worth-while setup. Most homes built during this time period were completed with a typical master bath that included a large jetted tub, and a separate small shower. Both of these elements are quickly becoming recognizable as features of the past, and are being replaced by new and improved technologies. For instance, many homeowners have taken it upon themselves to remove the large jetted bath, and replace it with a free standing tub. These free standing tubs allow for the room to open up in a more modern fashion, and provide endless style and aesthetic choices. Homeowners are also expanding their small showers to create a luxury environment. By pushing out walls to make more shower space, adding skylights and hinged doors, or even designing an accent tile pattern, homeowners are able to take their simple shower and turn it into a relaxing space that rivals even the best spa. The remodeling of a master bath even allows for homeowners to get creative with storage space and style. Many emerging trends include higher vanity height, and even additional built-in towers with extra outlets so that no one is without power while curling their hair or charging a razor. When you take the time to customize your master bath, you will add a level of value to your home that you can experience each and every day, and that will also add to your home’s worth in the long run. Join in on The Year of the Master Bath, and enjoy your improved space for decades to come!

Effective residential construction project management is crucial in today’s fast-moving building industry. It means overseeing every step of building a home, from planning to finishing, to ensure projects are completed time, within budget, and with high quality. Unlike commercial projects, residential projects require special attention to meet homeowners' unique needs and wishes, requiring a customized approach from the beginning to the end. In 2025, the construction sector will use advanced technologies like AI and integrated project delivery (IPD) to streamline processes and improve stakeholder collaboration. However, project managers face significant challenges, including managing risks, maintaining quality control, and ensuring effective communication among team members. A WIP Report (Work-in-Progress Report) is a key tool that helps track a project's budget, progress, and resource use. It provides clear insights, making managing costs easier, avoiding delays, and making informed decisions. By adopting best practices and using modern construction management tools, project managers can overcome these challenges and deliver successful residential construction projects that meet client expectations and contribute to a sustainable future. This article provides a brief overview of residential construction project management, highlights its importance, and touches on the challenges faced by project managers while incorporating the latest trends and technologies in the field. Types of Residential Construction Management Here are the different types of Residential Construction Management: Single-Family Homes: These are standalone houses built for individual families. Managing these projects involves overseeing construction from planning to completion, ensuring that the home meets the owner's preferences and budget. Multi-Family Housing: This includes apartments, condominiums, and townhouses. Projects of this type require managing multiple units, often with shared facilities, and ensuring compliance with local building codes. Custom Home Building: This involves constructing homes tailored to specific client needs. Close collaboration with architects and designers is required to ensure the house reflects the owner's personality and preferences. Home Renovation and Remodeling: These projects focus on updating or expanding existing homes. They often involve working with subcontractors for specialized tasks like electrical or plumbing work. Components of Residential Construction Project Management Managing a residential construction project requires carefully coordinating people, materials, and timelines. A well-structured approach ensures efficiency, cost control, and high-quality results. Roles and Responsibilities A project manager plays a vital role in residential construction. They oversee every step from planning to completion and ensure the project stays on schedule, within budget, and meets quality standards. Project Manager’s Role in Home Construction The project manager is responsible for organizing tasks, managing resources, and solving problems that arise during construction. They coordinate between different teams, track progress, and ensure safety regulations are followed. Collaboration with Contractors, Architects, and Stakeholders Successful residential construction requires teamwork. Project managers work closely with architects to bring designs to new heights, coordinate with contractors to manage labor and materials, and keep stakeholders (such as homeowners and investors) informed about project updates. Client Communication and Expectations Management Clear communication with clients is essential. The project manager keeps homeowners updated on timelines, changes, and challenges. Setting realistic expectations and providing regular updates, they help avoid misunderstandings and keep the project running smoothly. Project Scope & Planning Practical project planning sets the foundation for a successful residential construction project. It ensures clear goals, minimizes risks, and keeps the project on track. Defining Project Objectives and Deliverables: Clearly outlining what needs to be done and what the final result should look like is essential. This involves setting specific, measurable goals that align with the homeowner's vision and budget. Managing Homeowner Expectations and Scope Creep: Homeowners often have changing needs or ideas. Effective project managers must manage these expectations to prevent "scope creep," which can delay projects and increase costs. This involves open communication and setting clear boundaries. Ensuring Compliance with Zoning Laws and Permits: Before construction begins, it's crucial to ensure that all necessary permits are obtained and that the project complies with local zoning laws. This step avoids costly fines and delays, ensuring the project moves forward smoothly. Budgeting & Cost Control Proper budgeting is essential for keeping residential construction projects financially viable. Effective cost management prevents overspending and ensures profitability. Accurate Cost Estimation for Residential Projects A precise cost estimate considers labor, materials, permits, and unexpected expenses. Using historical data and Sage 300 CRE for financial management improves accuracy and helps set realistic budgets. Budget Allocation and Tracking Allocating funds efficiently ensures that each phase of the project receives the necessary resources. Tracking expenses through Construction & Financial Dashboards allows for real-time monitoring and early detection of budget deviations. Preventing Budget Overruns Uncontrolled costs can derail a project. Regular financial reviews, automated alerts for overspending, and contingency planning help keep expenses in check and prevent financial strain. Scheduling & Timeline Management Timely project completion is crucial in residential construction. Effective scheduling minimizes delays and ensures a smooth workflow. Creating Detailed Project Schedules A structured schedule outlines all tasks, deadlines, and dependencies. Breaking down the project into phases, planning, execution, and finishing, helps maintain order and clarity. Preventing Delays & Meeting Deadlines Delays can result from labor shortages, weather conditions, or supply chain issues. To avoid problems, it’s good to check for risks ahead of time, add extra time to schedules, and keep everyone on the same page. Using Gantt Charts and Critical Path Methods CPM for Construction helps identify critical activities that directly impact project completion, while Gantt charts provide a visual timeline of tasks. Both tools optimize scheduling and improve efficiency. Residential Construction Project Management Phases Managing a residential construction project effectively requires a structured approach through various phases. Each phase plays a critical role in ensuring the project's success, from initial planning to completion. Pre-Construction Phase The pre-construction phase sets the foundation for a smooth and efficient building process. Proper planning at this stage helps prevent costly changes and delays later. Site Analysis & Approvals: A thorough site analysis assesses soil conditions, topography, and environmental factors. Feasibility studies evaluate project viability, including costs and regulatory compliance. Obtaining zoning approvals, permits, and other legal clearances is crucial before breaking ground. Selecting Materials and Procurement Strategies: Choosing the right materials impacts durability, sustainability, and cost efficiency. A well-planned procurement strategy, including bulk purchasing and reliable supplier partnerships, ensures timely delivery and cost savings. Using Sage 300 CRE for procurement management helps streamline material sourcing and financial planning. Construction Phase The construction phase transforms plans into reality. Effective coordination and strict quality control ensure a successful build. Resource Allocation and Workflow Coordination: Efficiently managing labor, equipment, and materials is key to maintaining progress. Using CPM for Construction, project managers can allocate resources strategically, prevent bottlenecks, and optimize workflows for timely completion. Project Closeout & Handover The final phase of residential construction project management is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition from construction to occupancy. Proper closeout procedures guarantee quality, client satisfaction, and long-term project success. Final Inspections and Quality Assurance: Before finishing the project, a final inspection checks that everything meets safety rules and quality standards. Any problems need to be fixed quickly. Using Procore helps make inspections and tracking issues easier, ensuring a high-quality final product. Client Walkthrough and Support: A final check helps homeowners see the finished work, ask questions, and make sure it meets their expectations. This is also a chance to explain important home features and maintenance tips. Good communication here builds trust and strengthens relationships. Warranty Management and Feedback: Efficient warranty management ensures clients get quick help for any issues after construction. A clear process for tracking requests and keeping in touch with homeowners boosts satisfaction. Collecting feedback helps improve future projects. Using S-Curve Forecasting tracks performance trends and refines management strategies. Software for Residential Construction Project Management The integration of technology in residential construction project management has revolutionized the way projects are planned, executed, and monitored. Digital tools streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve communication, making them essential for modern construction firms. Importance of Digital Tools Investing in digital tools is crucial for construction firms as it transforms the industry by enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration across the entire project lifecycle. They also improve project management by streamlining processes, automating tasks, and facilitating real-time stakeholder communication. Top Construction Management Software for Residential Projects Several software solutions are available for managing residential construction projects: Procore: Known for its comprehensive project management features, including document management and collaboration tools. Sage 300 CRE: Offers robust accounting and financial management capabilities, ideal for large-scale construction projects. Buildertrend: Specializes in residential construction, providing tools for project scheduling, budgeting, and client communication. CoConstruct: Focuses on custom home building and remodeling, offering features for estimating, scheduling, and project management. WIP Reports: Useful for tracking work-in-progress and managing project finances effectively. Features Comparison and Best Use Cases: Procore: Best for large projects requiring extensive collaboration and document management. Sage 300 CRE: Ideal for firms needing robust financial management. Buildertrend: Suitable for residential builders focusing on client communication and project scheduling. CoConstruct: Perfect for custom home builders who need detailed estimating and scheduling tools. WIP Reports: Useful for firms needing to track project finances closely. How Software Improves Project Efficiency Construction management software significantly enhances project efficiency in several ways: Automating Accounting and Job Costing: Software like Sage 300 CRE automates financial tasks, reducing manual errors and improving budget tracking. Streamlining Document Management and Communication: Tools like Procore centralize documents and facilitate real-time communication among team members, reducing misunderstandings and delays. Mobile-Friendly Solutions for Real-Time Tracking: Mobile apps from platforms like Buildertrend allow for on-site access to project data, enabling real-time tracking and decision-making. These digital tools and software solutions are essential for modern residential construction project management, offering benefits such as improved efficiency, enhanced collaboration, and better financial control. Challenges in Residential Construction Project Management Residential construction projects face a variety of challenges that can impact their success. Here are some of the key issues project managers encounter: Managing Subcontractors and Labor Shortages One of the biggest challenges in residential construction is managing subcontractors and dealing with labor shortages. Subcontractors often have their own schedules and priorities, which can lead to delays if not coordinated properly. Additionally, labor shortages can slow down projects and increase costs due to the need for overtime or hiring temporary workers. Budget Overruns and Unexpected Costs Budget overruns are common in residential construction due to factors like material price fluctuations, unexpected site conditions, or changes in project scope. Effective budget management involves regularly monitoring expenses and having contingency plans for unexpected costs. Changing Construction and Eco Rules Construction and Eco Rules are always changing, so project managers need to keep up with the latest regulations. This involves following guidelines for saving energy, protecting the environment, and ensuring safety. Ignoring these rules can lead to fines, delays, or even stopping the project. Best Practices To ensure your residential construction projects run smoothly and successfully, follow these essential best practices: Setting Clear Project Goals and Milestones Clearly defining what you want to achieve is the first step to success. Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. This helps everyone involved understand what needs to be done and by when. For example, instead of saying "build a house," say "build a house with three bedrooms and two bathrooms within the next nine months." Stakeholder Collaboration Good communication is key to keeping everyone on the same page. Regular meetings with contractors, suppliers, and homeowners help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that everyone knows what's happening and what's next. This open dialogue also helps resolve issues quickly, preventing small problems from becoming big delays. Using Data-Driven Insights for Decision-Making Making decisions based on facts rather than guesses is crucial. Use data and analytics to understand project progress, identify potential issues early, and make informed decisions. For instance, if data shows that a particular material is consistently causing delays, you can plan ahead to avoid those delays in the future. Proactive Risk Management Strategies Things don't always go as planned, so being prepared is essential. Identify potential risks early and have a plan to manage them. This might include having backup suppliers, planning for weather conditions, or setting aside extra funds for unexpected expenses. Being proactive can prevent small issues from turning into major problems. Conclusion Effective residential construction project management requires careful planning, clear communication, and the right digital tools. From single-family homes to multi-family housing and custom projects, managing timelines, budgets, and quality is essential for success. By following best practices, using project management software, and staying ahead of industry trends, project managers can ensure smooth execution and client satisfaction despite challenges like labor shortages, budget overruns, and regulatory compliance; modern technology and strategic planning help mitigate risks. Construction firms can improve efficiency, enhance collaboration, and maintain financial control by adopting advanced tools like Procore, Sage 300 CRE, and Buildertrend. A well-managed project delivers a quality home and builds trust and long-term success in the industry. FAQs What is residential construction project management? It involves overseeing all aspects of building residential properties, from initial planning and design to construction and completion, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the desired quality standards. How can I prevent budget overruns in my construction project? Accurate cost estimation, continuous budget tracking, and having contingency plans for unexpected expenses are key strategies to prevent budget overruns. What are the main stages of a residential construction project? The primary stages include design, pre-construction, procurement, and construction. How does construction management software improve project efficiency? It streamlines processes like scheduling, budgeting, and communication, providing real-time data access and collaboration among stakeholders, which enhances overall project efficiency. How can I ensure my project complies with local building codes and regulations? Engage professionals familiar with local laws, obtain all necessary permits before starting, and conduct regular inspections to ensure adherence to building codes and regulations.

The chance to build a lakeside weekend home in rural NC provided this Chapel Hill family with an opportunity to ditch convention and think outside the box. For instance, we traded the traditional boat dock with what's become known as the "party dock"… a floating lounge of sorts, complete with wet bar, TV, swimmer's platform, and plenty of spots for watching the water fun. Inside, we turned one bedroom into a gym with climbing wall - and dropped the idea of a dining room, in favor of a deep upholstered niche and shuffleboard table. Outdoor drapery helped blur the lines between indoor spaces and exterior porches filled with upholstery, swings, and places for lazy napping. And after the sun goes down....smores, anyone? John Bessler

Unfinished basements offer a delightful canvas for our creativity, allowing us the flexibility to present various space layout options tailored to the client's exact requirements. In this instance, our client expressed the desire to incorporate a complete bathroom, laundry area, and storage room, along with the task of enclosing walls and ceilings and installing stunning white oak flooring.

When we first looked at this space we were so baffled by so many of the layout choices that were made. For instance the teeny tiny corner neo angle shower and the dropped soffits with less than ideal lighting. We decided a double vanity was a must, along with a large shower and a design that was not trendy, but gave some much need style. We brought in Landmark Remodeling, and as a team brought a creative design to life. We have some features such as the pre existing ledge we made a "niche" and then a second "bench" that allowed for shaving and solved a structural issue with a skylight above. All the behind the scenes planning worked out perfectly!

Custom steel deck railing for an Albuquerque residence. "I've had 2 jobs done by Pascetti, steel railings on a 2nd story deck and steel railings on a deck that hangs over an arroyo. In both instances the estimate appointment was on time and the estimate was priced fairly, and usually lower than others I had. These guys are so busy (b/c they are so good and fair) that the hardest part of working with them is timing....you might have to wait a couple of months B4 they can get to your job. But once they get to your property they are completely prepared, all of the materials are ready, the installation crew is incredibly fast and hard working, they finish the job in a timely manner (half a day in both of my installations), and the final product is the best it can be: high quality and installed perfectly. I can't say enough good things about this group. Oh, by the way, they answer emails and when dealing on the phone with scheduling or accounting they are friendly, easy to work with, efficient." - Don D., Homeowner Working with architects and designers at the initial design stage or directly with homeowners, Pascetti Steel will make the entire process from drawings to installation seamless and hassle free. We plan safety and stability into every design we make, the railings and hardware are fabricated to be strong, durable and visually appealing. Choose from a variety of styles including cable railing, glass railing, hand forged and custom railing. We also offer pre-finished aluminum balcony railing for hotels, resorts and other commercial buildings. We can ship pre-finished railing to any location, complete with all the hardware and installation recommendations. We'll work from your drawings or we can create a design for you. Choose from a variety of styles to fit any architecture. Finishes include chemical treatments, paint, and a wide range of powder coating colors.