Renovation and Interior Design Services
The main difference between renovation and interior design is that renovation often involves structural alterations, whereas interior design only works with what exists. This means that general contractors will be more concerned with practicality and functionality than beauty.
A designer, on the other hand, will help you create a beautiful space that reflects your personality and style. This includes putting together designs, tracking product shipments and communicating with vendors, contractors and installers.
Design-Build Companies
Design-build firms are considered one-stop shops that can offer you the full range of home renovation services. They typically house a general contractor, architect and interior designer. Some are more design-based, while others have a balanced mix of both architecture and construction. This helps to eliminate the need for homeowners to manage two separate contractors and designers, which often leads to turf wars between the different parties.
With design-build, design and construction occur simultaneously and the process is more efficient, which translates into faster project delivery. It also enables the team to analyze different options and solutions so you can make more informed decisions. This allows you to see more possibilities and realize a better value for your money.
The pre-construction phase of your Design-Build project starts with an in-depth business and financial assessment. This is where the Design-Builder’s pre-construction staff learn about your organization, goals, vision, financial realities and current and future facility needs.
Then, the team will review existing facility plans and perform architectural, mechanical and electrical system assessments, as well as interior room layouts, site evaluations, fire and smoke preparations and renovation and interior design services structural systems. This data is then used to develop a detailed scope of work and schedule, which is reviewed with you to ensure the final product meets your expectations.
General Contractors
A general contractor (also called a GC) is the lead professional for construction projects. They oversee the work of subcontractors and make sure all work is done according to your project plan, city specs and building codes, and any other contractual obligations. They are typically responsible for procuring all materials and obtaining permits. GCs also work with the architect and designer during the design phase to create, finalize and approve a design with the contract owner.
During construction, a GC’s tasks include interacting with all parties to ensure that all aspects of a renovation are completed on time and within budget. They are also responsible for securing worker’s compensation and liability insurance for all workers involved in the project.
You’ll want to ask any potential GCs you meet with about their experience, licensing and references before hiring them. Also, be sure to find out how they handle change orders – these are inevitable during a renovation and knowing what the protocol is in advance will help you avoid any issues down the road.
A good GC will also be able to provide you with a detailed estimate of the overall cost of your project. This will take into account the price of labor, materials, tools and equipment; permitting and inspection fees; taxes; and other applicable costs. They will also discuss any potential risks and complications with the project, and be prepared to address them accordingly.
Interior Designers
Interior designers use their skills to develop and design functional and aesthetically pleasing environments in commercial, retail, hospitality and other building types. They have knowledge of a wide range of materials and can create and execute detailed and comprehensive plans for the layout, furniture and equipment for an interior space. They also know how to meet construction codes, regulations and ADA requirements.
Their work includes developing 2D or 3D interior design plans, drawings, mood boards and project visualisations. They will produce detailed specifications, costing and schedules to ensure the delivery of a successful project. They are the point of contact for construction contractors on site as well as for suppliers and FF&E specialists. They will prepare interior design documents for approval and implementation such as scope of work, FF&E schedules, furniture plans and electrical layouts.
The role of the designer is to help a client express and clarify what they are trying to achieve with their renovation project, whether it is a new kitchen or master suite or an entire home. They will translate a client’s ideas and preferences into well-designed, practical, comfortable, and livable interiors.
Interior designers can also offer advice on spatial planning, identifying areas of improvement for both aesthetic and ergonomic reasons. They will consider furniture, lighting, finishes, and fabrics to help clients select items that fit within their budget and meet specifications.
Renovation Tips
It’s been said that “failing to plan is planning to fail.” This holds true during home renovations. The process can be emotionally taxing and disruptive to your daily routine. Creating a detailed timeline with contingency options and staying in contact with your renovation team throughout the process is key.
Prioritize projects that will increase the resale value of your home. This can help you stay within your budget and ensure that you’re getting a good return on investment when it comes time to sell.
Start packing up items that you will need to remove from the renovation area several weeks before construction starts. This will protect your belongings from damage and help the renovation team work more efficiently without your things in their way. If you are renovating hotel furniture manufacturers the entire house, consider renting an offsite storage space for items that will need to be moved to other areas of your home during the remodel.
Determine your design preferences before meeting with an interior designer. This will keep you from being talked into a design that’s outside of your budget. It will also help you narrow your design ideas so you can get the most out of your consultation with an interior decorator. Finally, once the last nail has been hammered in and you’ve walked through your new room, don’t forget to do a thorough post-renovation inspection to identify any issues that may need to be addressed.
