Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do you have “designer” in your name. How do I find an architect or interior designer?
A: We have “design” in our name because we collaborate with creative professionals throughout the building process. We work regularly with many interior designers and architects. We are happy to introduce you to a designer or two who we think might be good matches. Contact us for a referral.
Q: I have so many finish selections to make! Do I have to make them all before I start construction? Can’t I decide as we go?
A: We encourage clients to make as many design decisions as possible prior to seeking estimates, this includes finish and fixture selections. This avoids excessive change orders after ground break. Of course, we understand decisions may need to be made during the construction process and we are happy to assist with and provide those change orders.
Q: My project is pretty small. Do I really need an interior designer?
A: Yes! All projects require and architect and/or an interior designer. There are dozens, hundreds, and even thousands of decisions that go into a project depending on size. Small projects still require a plethora of decisions we can’t make for you, nor do we have the expertise of an interior designer. If your project does not require the drawings of an architect, you will still need detailed plan drawings and finish and fixture decisions. An interior designer helps you make design decisions and finish selections, as well as ordering, tracking and storing of those selections. Your designer will need to furnish accurate plans and revise them as necessary. We build to the plan.
Q: What regions do you service?
A: We service the counties of San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Mateo, and Santa Clara.
Q: How do we pay you?
A: Payment is accepted by ACH through Quickbooks online, wire transfers, and check. Credit card payments are not accepted at this time.
Q: What is Materials Procurement and Management, and why is it important?
A: Materials Procurement and Management is the process of verification with the trades to make sure:
Desired fixtures can be installed per CA building code
That fixtures and desired finishes of selections are available for purchase
To verify all item specifications for installation
Order the design selections, and oversee delivery
Offsite storage of selections, if necessary, will be paid for by the client.
Q: Do I need a permit to remodel my home?
A: Almost everything requires a permit apart from paint and floor finishes. Depending on your Building Department, fences may not require a permit.
Q: What are your hours of operation
A: Our business hours are 7:30am to 4:30pm, Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. We understand that you will need to arrange your schedule to meet with us during our business hours and we appreciate the effort it takes to do this.
Q: Will there be a port-a-potty?
A: Each city/town has different requirements. We work with the localities and the homeowner to find the best solution
Q: Can we live in our home during our project?
A: The answer is different for everyone, and it depends on the job. Sometimes our clients remain at home during work and sometimes they don’t. This is a conversation we have as soon as possible.
Q: Will you please for the love of God, stop hammering?
A: We wish we could glue your house together, but that isn’t part of the current building code. If you work from home during a remodel, be prepared for constant popping of nail guns, skill saws rumbling and Sawzalls shaking the walls of your house. It’s unavoidable and necessary. Please refer to: Can we live in our home during our project?