Every project we take on moves through the same five stages. Knowing them in advance makes the whole thing calmer, because you know what you will be asked to decide, and when.
1. The visit
Your project lead comes to the house to measure, look at the existing services, and hear what you want to change and why. This is the moment to mention the things that annoy you about the room, however small. They often shape the design more than the wish list does.
2. The design
We draw the layout and bring samples. You choose cabinet fronts, counters, tile, fixtures and paint with the materials in your hands. Expect a couple of rounds; a plan that has been argued over on paper rarely changes on site.
3. The written scope
Before anything is ordered you receive the scope: every task, every product by name, the order of work, the price and the schedule. Read it slowly. Anything not on it is not in the project, and anything you expected that is missing should be raised now.
4. The build
The crew protects the rooms you are still using, does the heavy work first, then builds towards the finishes. You get a short update at the end of each week. If the house reveals a surprise behind a wall, you hear about it the same day with the options laid out, and you choose.
5. The walk-through
We go through the finished rooms together and write down anything that is not right yet. We come back to fix the list, and the project closes when you agree it is complete. You leave with a folder for your records: the written scope, the permit sign-offs and the make and model of everything installed. Your insurer may want to see it when you update your policy.
What helps on your side
- Decide who in the household signs off on choices, so the crew is not waiting.
- Clear the room and the route to it before the start date.
- Keep a note of questions as they occur, and bring them to the weekly update.