What is a Design Build Remodel, and Why Choose it?
We know a Design-Build remodel can feel overwhelming at first. That’s why we’ve outlined our step-by-step approach to help you feel more confident, informed, and excited about working with our team.
Our proven design-build process ensures clarity, transparency, and expert guidance at every stage—so you can focus on the why behind your remodel, and leave the how to us.
Here’s what the J.S. Brown & Co. experience looks like from start to finish:
- Initial Consultation – Free of Charge
We start with a complimentary meeting to hear your ideas, learn about your home, and explore what’s possible. We’ll discuss budget ranges and project scope ideas, then provide a retainer quote so you can decide if you’d like to move forward.
- Programming – Research & Discovery
Once retained, we begin with programming:
- We capture the space using high-tech digital scans and photography.
- We sit down with you to understand what’s not working, what’s important to you, and which design styles resonate with your taste.
This phase lays the foundation for a design tailored to your needs.
- Design Development – Conceptual Plans + Budget Feedback
Using Chief Architect, we begin designing:
- First, we create as-built plans based on the current layout.
- Then we develop concept plans for your remodel.
- Once you approve a concept, we create a preliminary estimate in Buildertrend.
Need to adjust scope or budget? No problem. We revisit the design and fine-tune until the balance is just right.
- Selections & Production Review – Planning for Precision
When the preliminary budget is approved, we begin making material selections and reviewing the project with our internal production team. This is a critical step—it prevents many common surprises that happen during construction.
In 2024, our average contract price increase due to change orders was under 5%—a testament to the accuracy and preparation that occur during this phase.
- Contract Documents – The Final Plan
With selections and production input in hand, we prepare a comprehensive contract package for your review, including:
- Final plans
- Detailed specifications
- Updated pricing
- Signing Your Design Build Remodel Contract – Retainer Credited
Once the contract is approved and signed in Buildertrend, we will credit your retainer fee toward the total construction cost. Behind the scenes, we’re:
- Applying for permits
- Finalizing and Ordering materials
- Building a detailed schedule
- Confirming labor and subcontractor availability
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Scheduling feature in Buildertrend also helps us notify and coordinate trades and suppliers
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Warranty requests can be made through Buildertrend, and clients will continue to have access to the software for their entire warranty period.
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We do purchasing through Buildertrend and track materials as they are received and/or delivered to the jobsite.
- Preconstruction Meeting – A Smooth Hand-Off
Before construction begins, you’ll meet with your dedicated Project Manager and the Sales & Design team. This is when the Production team begins to transition into the lead role. Still, your Design & Sales team remains involved throughout the project to assist with site meetings, design adjustments, or additional work.
- Construction – Skilled Coordination Every Step of the Way
Your in-house Project Manager leads the project through every detail, including:
- Coordinating staff carpenters, subcontractors, and suppliers
- Managing municipal inspections
- Keeping work flowing smoothly and efficiently
- Final Walk-Through & Warranty
Once the work is complete, we conduct a final walk-through and sign off. This marks the beginning of your warranty period, and we collect the final payment.
- Aftercare – Photography, Celebration, and Continued Support
Time to celebrate!
- We’ll schedule “after” photos of your finished space.
- Many homeowners choose to host a free J.S. Brown & Co. Wine & Design party to share the transformation with friends and family.
Our team is always here to answer follow-up questions, provide home maintenance assistance, address minor repairs, or help you plan your next remodel.
Ready to get started?
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. Whether you’re dreaming of a reimagined kitchen, a modernized bath, or a whole-home transformation, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
