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What to Expect from the Design Phase of a Major Remodel

The design phase of a major remodel is what sets you up for a successful whole-home renovation. We can prepare homeowners for what to expect during the design phase so they get the most out of the experience.

Expect thorough conversations with architectural designers, on-site visits with construction consultants, honest feasibility assessments, collaborative design, permit-ready plan sets, and even help finding a contractor during the design phase of a major remodel. Take your time finalizing design decisions so that the final result is what you expect.

Call (803) 404-7168 to plan your renovation or custom home with the architectural designers at Phase One.

What Should Homeowners Expect from the Design Phase of a Major Remodel?

Knowing what to expect from the design phase of a major renovation is important so you don’t miss any steps or rush the process.

Thorough Conversations

Throughout the entire design phase for a major remodel, you should expect thorough, ongoing conversations. Expect specific questions about the colors, styles, textures, motifs, and materials that speak to you, as well as those you don’t like or don’t want included in the renovation.

Our goal in these conversations is to fully understand the vision you have for the renovation so we can execute it in our designs.

On-Site Visits

Also, expect an on-site in the beginning of the design phase for a major remodel. Expect to spend 1 to 2 hours with us walking through the renovation site and discussing the project in greater detail. We call our on-site visits “Construction Consults,” and they are a vital part of the Phase One process.

We also take important measurements during the on-site visit, so we have accurate information to work off of when starting to draft designs.

Honest Feasibility Assessments

We provide honest feasibility assessments when designing extensive remodels for homeowners. The home’s structure or footing might be limiting, and certain materials or features might cost too much to rationalize, including in your budget. Construction codes, Homeowners Association rules, and local zoning rules also contribute to the feasibility of a renovation, especially if you wish to change the home’s exterior, the structure, or size by adding another story or an addition.

Collaborative Approach

Homeowners can expect the design phase of a major remodel to be a collaborative process between them and our architectural designers. While we rely on our experience and skill to suggest layouts, finishes, and features, our goal is to create a renovated house that is functional for you and reflects your preferences.

It’s easy to make revisions as plans get more and more ironed out. Homeowners should always speak their minds about what they want to see from a major remodel. Be honest about the changes you want to see, and we can make them.

Permit-Ready Plan Sets

The design phase of a massive renovation culminates in permit-ready plan sets. Blueprints should be accurate, clear-cut, and in line with all local construction codes in your area. Confidently approve permit-ready plans after seeing them come to life in a 3D rendering of the completed renovation.

We can provide copies to homeowners and their contractors, as builders need these blueprints to obtain permits.

Help Finding a Contractor

Although construction comes after the design phase is complete, we can help you make this transition smooth and simple by finding a contractor in your area who can follow the detailed plans for a remodel from Phase One.

You do not need to hire a contractor before starting the design phase of a major remodel, but you can if you choose.

FAQs About Designing a Major Remodel with Phase One

How Long Does the Design Phase of a Major Remodel Take?

The design phase of a major remodel may take around 2 months, give or take. Larger remodels may take longer to design than smaller renovations. The renovation itself may take longer.

What is the Right Design Style for Your Major Remodel?

Renovations often aim to preserve a home’s character so that the right design style may be an updated version of the original architectural style. We can help you choose a design style that makes sense for the house and your personal preferences.

Does Designing a Major Remodel Cost Less Than Designing a Custom Home?

Designing a major remodel may cost less than designing a fully custom home from the ground up. However, unexpected structural issues and other problems with older home renovations can sometimes increase costs, which is why we recommend allocating a good portion of the budget for contingencies.

How Can You Make Sure Designs for a Major Remodel Are Approved?

We help ensure plan sets for major remodels receive the permitting approvals they need by adhering to all local zoning laws and construction codes throughout the design process.

What if Your Builder Has Questions About the Designs for a Major Remodel?

If at any point during the renovation, your builder has questions about the designs for a major remodel, Phase One’s architectural designers will be happy to provide answers to ensure construction isn’t delayed any longer than necessary.

What Are Key Considerations During the Design Phase of a Major Remodel?

Key considerations during the design phase for a major remodel include setting aside a contingency fund, updating utilities and mechanical systems, removing walls, relocating load-bearing walls, and choosing durable materials.

Who Should You Trust to Design a Major Remodel?

Whole-home renovations require extensive planning, updates to utilities and mechanical systems, layout changes, wall removals, and more. Trust our skillful architectural designers to consider cost-effective options, local building rules, the existing structure, and everything else that goes into designing a major renovation.