Why do we need a budget before we begin?

How do we know if our budget is realistic for the type/amount of work we want done?

Why does your design-build process consist of three phases?

Can I hire ARC Design-Build to design, but not build, my project?

Can I hire ARC Design-Build to build, but not design, my project?

How does your Phase 3: Construction contract work?

Who is responsible for securing permits?

How long does it generally take for construction to begin once the contract has been signed?

What should I expect during construction?

Why do we need a budget before we begin?

Starting a construction project without a budget is like beginning a journey without a map: You just don't know where you will end up. When you begin with a target budget, decisions can be made throughout the process that fit into those parameters. As you add to and enhance the design, you will be aware of areas that must be adjusted to remain on-budget. When the design is complete, you will be ready to move on toward your final destination: construction of your project.

How do we know if our budget is realistic for the type/amount of work we want done?

Click here for a brief overview of remodeling costs.

Why does your design-build process consist of three phases?

The three-phase process provides a framework for successful design-build projects. Phase 1: Project Development, is an opportunity to further refine the budget and project in a give-and-take between ARC and the client. New ideas are presented and discussed by both parties, decisions are made, the project is defined, and—based on the decisions made—a new working budget is set for Phase 2. In Phase 2: Design Development, ARC and the client bring the project to life together, creating detailed drawings and making final decisions and selections. At this point, ARC can prepare a fixed-price proposal to complete Phase 3: Construction.

Can I hire ARC Design-Build to design, but not build, my project?

As our name implies, ARC Design-Build integrates design and construction.We do not take on "design-only" work to be bid on by other contractors (and please note that as for any design or architecture firm, copyright law states that the designs we create for your project remain the property of ARC Design-Build, Inc.). Our focus is on the project as a whole, and we believe that working with clients from the outset is the best way to offer the best possible design, a smooth construction process, and a finished project that meets or exceeds the client's expectations.

Can I hire ARC Design-Build to build, but not design, my project?

With certain exceptions, we prefer not to bid on other people's design projects and to build only those projects we design. As stated above, we find that working with clients from the outset is the best way to offer the best possible design, a smooth construction process, and a finished project that meets or exceeds the client's expectations.

How does your Phase 3: Construction contract work?

With the detailed drawings and specifications we've created, ARC Design-Build, Inc., can confidently give our clients an accurate, fixed construction price rather than an "estimate" that may not accurately reflect the actual cost of the job. Our contracts take much of the uncertainty out of the construction process. From the moment you sign the construction contract, you know exactly what your project will cost (barring unforeseen circumstances or changes you make).

As part of the construction proposal, we provide a Project Description that lists the progression of tasks—from procuring the permit to final walkthrough—that make up your project, and a breakdown of progress payments based on completion of these tasks.

Who is responsible for securing permits?

ARC Design-Build, Inc.

How long does it generally take for construction to begin once the contract has been signed?

Although we understand and share in your eagerness to have your job begin (and be completed!), ARC Design-Build, Inc. cannot guarantee a start or completion date during the design phase of the project. Project start dates are determined by several factors, including seasonal and material ordering considerations as well as crew and subcontractor availability. Please keep in mind that your project will ONLY be scheduled once the construction contract has been signed and a deposit made.

What should I expect during construction?

Unlike new home construction, remodeling often happens while you're living in your home and requires some (temporary) changes in your daily routine, as well as some clutter and mess. Our crew makes every effort to respect your privacy and minimize any inconvenience. Nevertheless, you may feel the effects of disrupted routines and the impact on your personal space. To make the process as stress-free as possible, it helps to stay focused on the temporary nature of the disruption and the progress being made. Of course, please make us aware of any issues that require our attention.