Our Process
Every project is an adventure and like all journeys, planning is pivotal. Our process is designed to support your success from start through après build. Schedule a complimentary consultation to determine if we are the best team for you.
Initial Consultation
It is advantageous to contact us before spending a penny on your project. While many folks wait until after their plans are complete to hire a builder, we have learned it saves our clients when we are involved from the beginning. Looking to buy land? We can help you select a viable parcel to meet your goals.
Schematic Design
Creating a clear vision involves defining your goals and understanding your budget. What is your motivation? What are your values and lifestyle preferences? What do you envision for your future? Your answers will guide us in determining a path forward and who to invite on the journey.
Design Development
Collaborating with trusted architects and design professionals, we work as a collective to produce designs shaped around your vision and goals. We will present you with a preliminary budget so you can make informed big picture decisions while finalizing finer details.
Construction Documents
When you are pleased with your design and comfortable with your rough budget, it is time for the architect and engineer to dig in and produce construction documents (CDs). It is essential plans and specs accurately communicate all details to ensure efficiency during the construction phase.
Contractor Proposal
Once we wrap up CDs, it is time for us to refine the budget to reflect the scope of work and develop a proposal to complete your project. If all parties feel good about the proposal, we will sign a prime contract and begin moving toward the construction phase.
Permitting and Fees
Each project has unique permit and fee requirements depending on the municipalities involved. Typically, planning and zoning will review plans prior to sending them to building, engineering, health, and fire departments. Some projects require HOA approval and others require special permits and fees.
Scheduling
After plans are stamped and fees are paid, we are ready to revisit scheduling. We establish a tentative timeline during the design phase and update during construction. Scheduling is a dynamic process influenced by suppliers, trade partners, and external conditions. We do our best to adapt efficiently.
Site Work
Now it is time to break ground! We have a plan in place and we are ready to mobilize heavy equipment to clear land, demo existing structures, excavate a building pad, and trench utilities. We employ operators and own a fleet of machines, so we don’t need to depend on anyone else to start digging.
Concrete Foundation
In addition to self-performing excavation, our crew is qualified to form footings and foundation walls. We have learned being hands-on during this phase is beneficial, as it is costly to correct issues with concrete after it is placed. We specialize in ICFs, and value their energy-efficiency and comfort.
Structural Framing
Framing is one of the most rewarding and complex phases. While our carpenters work hard building your dream, you will start to get a feel for the flow of your space. We have developed a reputation for our proficiency in framing complex structures out of wood, steel, SIPs, and mass timber.
Building Enclosure
A step often rushed by contractors is one we believe to be paramount to the durability, comfort, and longevity of your structure. The four control layers of a building are: water, vapor, air, and temperature. It is important we build tight and ventilate right to improve performance and minimize maintenance.
Mechanical Systems
A major milestone after “drying-in” the structure is the “four-way” inspection. In order to pass our inspection to insulate and close up walls, we must first bring in trade partners to install rough plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. We spec ERVs to ensure optimal indoor air quality, comfort, and durability.
Finishing Trades
Once we hang drywall, it is time to focus on finishes. We work with skilled artisans to install siding, roofing, decking, cabinets, counters, flooring, tile, finish carpentry, lighting, fixtures, and other materials that accentuate the personality of your space. This phase takes time and is satisfying to witness!
Final Inspection
After all trades are finished and our construction punch list is complete, it is time for the final inspection. We coordinate with inspectors to make sure our projects exceed code expectations. You can think of it like the final test or the last obstacle we are determined to nail.
Move-In!
Your certificate of occupancy has arrived! Before you move in, we clean your space prioritizing healthy and non-toxic products. Our mission is complete and it is time for you to enjoy your creation. We are grateful for the journey and hope to continue our relationship long “après” (after) construction is wrapped up.
