When watching a home design television show, you may get the impression that a custom home makeover only takes a few days. However, a renovation can take several months to an entire year to complete. The following guide can help you set a realistic design and construction timeline.
Gather Inspiration
Start gathering inspiration for your home design several months in advance. Use websites such as Pinterest and Houzz to find and save ideas for your design. This way, it is easier to share your ideas with your designer. You can start by saving pictures of rooms and spaces that catch your eye, but you should also look for common elements that appeal to you.
Obtain Your Permit
You cannot start designing your home until you have obtained the correct permit. You should also look into CAD plans and documents from previous construction projects. It is easier to plan your project when you know your limitations.
Set A Realistic Timeline
It is important to include the research, product delivery and construction in your timeline. You should also keep in mind that your products may not arrive right away. This is why it is important to set a realistic timeline for your project.
Design Phase Timeline
There is a lot of decision making that goes into the design process, so you want to plan for two months for one room and four to six months for multiple rooms.
One week to one month: Contact your city department about building codes, permits and other requirements. You need to set up an on-site consultation with experts, and you need to have your space measured by a professional.
One to three months: Start collecting your inspiration pictures, and work with your designer to set a goal for your project.
Two weeks to three months: Shop for products such as furniture and materials. Compare the styles and prices, and select the options that best fit your project.
Construction Phase Timeline
Your construction timeline should be one to six months, and you want to plan the product delivery and actual construction as two separate steps. It can take four to six weeks to receive an order within the country. If you are ordering from overseas, it can take several months to receive your products. The construction of a single room can take at least one month, and the construction of multiple rooms can take three to six months.
Add Buffer Time
A delayed shipment or problem with construction are unexpected events that can slow down your project. You can avoid feeling stressed by adding a buffer time of at least two months to your timeline. Plan to have the project finished two months before your desired date.
Example Timeline
The following is an example of a timeline for the renovation of an average kitchen, which is about 160 square feet.
Design phase:
First month: Looking into building codes, permits and requirements. Saving and reviewing inspiration photos and design ideas.
Second month: Shopping for products such as paint, furniture, hardware and finishes.
Construction phase:
First month: Delivery of products ordered locally, which allows the construction to begin immediately.
Second month: The buffer time is added to ensure the project is complete on time.
Set A Realistic Budget
You should always be honest with yourself and your designer about your budget. Schedule an early consultation with your designer to set a realistic budget for your project. This is a great way to avoid restarting or canceling your project due to price.
Choose A Start Date
It is recommended to start several months to a year before your desired deadline. Starting early gives you time to get through bumps in the road, including weather, delayed shipments and other projects. Start your project during an off-season to ensure a professional is available.
If you are ready to start upgrading your home, contact Alair Homes Edmonton. We specialize in services ranging from home renovations to custom home building.
Your custom home makeover is sure to go smoothly when you set a realistic design and construction timeline.