A typical home remodel project – no matter if it’s a bathroom, a kitchen, or other major space –involves several key phases, each essential for ensuring the process runs smoothly and meets the homeowner’s vision. Working with a designer who does project management and not just the selection of finishes can be a huge benefit to nervous homeowners. I personally love the project management side of a remodel and here is the usual order of things:
Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect:
1. Planning and Design: The Excitement Phase
- Initial Consultation: Homeowners meet with the interior designer to discuss goals, budget, and timelines. Depending on the scope of work, an architect may need to be selected to create detailed plans for use by the designer and the general contractor. I have architects and general contractors that I work with to make clients’ projects come to life. This is the phase where the homeowners should be thoughtful about the investment they intend to make into the beautification of their home.
- Scope of Work: The project manager will outline every aspect of the remodel so the homeowner is clear and in agreement on all aspects and components.
- Interviews and Bids: The homeowner and the designer/project manager meet with prospective team members including licensed general contractors and ask for bids.
- Design Phase: Creation of renderings considering layout, materials, and aesthetics with sign-off by the client.
- Budgeting: Finalizing costs for labor, materials, and permits, with a contingency fund for unexpected expenses.
- Excitement Phase: This is where the fun begins. The designer and homeowner will begin to select materials and start to see the vision come together.
2. Permitting
- Obtaining Permits: Depending on the scope, homeowners will need permits for structural changes, electrical work, or plumbing updates. The permit portion of the project can be done by the general contractor. If an architect is involved they may also work on permitting.
3. Demolition
- Clearing the Space: Removal of old fixtures, cabinets, or walls, with care taken to protect surrounding areas.
- Waste Disposal: Managing debris through recycling or disposal services.
4. Construction: The Exhaustion Phase
- Framing and Structural Work: If altering layouts, framing is completed first, followed by any necessary structural adjustments. Once framing is complete measurements for cabinets and other built-ins take place.
- Systems Installation: Updating electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems to ensure they meet modern standards.
- Rough-in Inspection: The first phase of inspections take place before the project can move forward.
- Exhaustion Phase: There comes a point in any project where the homeowner feels burned out from all of the noise and disruption. It’s normal and to be expected. As the project manager, I try to keep my clients focused on the rewards ahead.
5. Finishing Touches
- Interior Work: Installing drywall, flooring, cabinets, and countertops.
- Painting and Decor: Adding color and style with paint, tiles, and decor elements.
6. Final Inspection and Walkthrough
- Quality Checks: Ensuring all work meets safety standards and homeowner expectations.
- Final Touches: Addressing any minor issues or adjustments before the project is officially completed.
7. Post-Project – The Enjoyment/Relief Phase
- Cleanup: Removing any remaining debris and ensuring the space is clean.
- Enjoyment: Relief sets in that the noise and stress is over. Homeowners can enjoy their newly remodeled space, often sharing before-and-after photos on social media. It’s time to have a party and share your new space with friends and family.