The Design/Build Process

Design/Build . . . a 3 Step Process

An initial meeting will be set up at the client’s home to discuss their remodeling needs. SEI Design Build’s experienced staff will be able to evaluate the site conditions, determine a “ball-park” budget, and suggest what options may be suitable for the project. SEI Design/Build’s portfolio of professionally photographed projects and client references will be shared at this meeting. At the conclusion of this meeting the homeowner may decide to enter into the first step of the Design/Build Process; the Design Agreement.

Step 1: The Design Agreement

The Design Agreement is actually a feasibility study and results in architecturally designed conceptual plans upon which the budget estimate will be based. The Design Agreement describes for the client the scope of design work and number of hours for one of SEI Design/Build’s architects to complete conceptual drawings of the remodeling project. Certain documents pertaining to the building site such as surveys or plats, legal descriptions, homeowner’s association covenants/restrictions, etc. will be required at this time. The conceptual drawings will include plan views and elevations of the proposed project and the existing house. Some of these conceptual drawings will include perspective views, if necessary. The budget and specifications defines the scope of work and provides details, allowances and a draw schedule in addition to the terms and conditions that will apply to the contract. At this point, the homeowner will have a clear understanding of exactly what is being proposed with the architectural plans and budget estimate documents and may wish to proceed to Step 2, Design Development.

Step 2: Design Development

The conceptual drawings are refined during this phase. SEI will assist in product selections with the client and visit vendor’s showrooms as needed. This will enable the client to select all construction-related items that relate to their specific project. The Project Manager coordinates with subcontractors to obtain their recommendations to value engineer the project. A timeline will be generated that will detail each step of the construction process and the start and completion dates. At the conclusion of Design Development, a Construction Contract is developed and defines the final scope of work and provides detailed specifications, allowances and a draw schedule in addition to the terms and conditions. The Design Development fees are part of the Construction Contract if the client should decide to proceed to Step 3; the Construction Phase.

Step 3: The Construction Phase

The project is now ready to build, the client has signed the Construction Contract and is ready to get into the schedule. A pre-construction meeting is arranged between the client, SEI Sales staff, the Project Manager and the SEI Design/Build Lead Carpenter assigned to that project to review the project. During this meeting, project details are discussed including specific client needs, and concerns for the neighborhood. When construction begins, the lead carpenter assigned to the project will be on the job and will be coordinating and supervising all subcontractors and material deliveries. SEI Design/Build’s Project Manager and company representatives will visit the job regularly and always be available by telephone and email.