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There are some significant advantages to using our firm to design and build your project. Most importantly, integrating the design and building phases results in both a better design and more efficient construction. Our form follows function approach to design is based upon years of practical experience in construction. RMGC, Inc. follows in the rich tradition of the artisan/craftsman designers such as Greene & Greene and Stickley. Our designs not only are pleasing to the eye but are comfortable to live in and practical to build.
Once you have made the decision to contact RMGC, Inc. we will schedule a free initial consultation. At this meeting we will assess your needs and the compatibility of your project with our firm’s skills. If you have collected any photos, magazines or books with design styles that you like, it would be very helpful to present them at this time. We will take notes and any necessary photos to assist us in estimating the design costs. Your project budget requirements will also be discussed at this time.
After the initial meeting, if you would like us to proceed further, we will prepare a rough preliminary cost estimate for your project. We base this estimate on similar projects we have completed in the past. If this estimate is within your budget, with your approval, we will prepare an estimate for the design phase of the project. Our comprehensive quote will include estimated permit fees, estimated design hours, CAD time to complete the plans as required by the building department, any required engineering including Title 24 calculations and printing costs.
Upon your approval of the design quote we will schedule another site visit to measure your home. This information will be utilized to prepare a preliminary set of plans. These plans might go through several revisions before we come up with a suitable design. If these design changes significantly affect the cost of the project we will revise our estimated costs accordingly. Once the right balance is achieved between cost and design, and with your agreement, we will proceed with the final construction documents and engineering.
The next step in the design/build process would be to prepare a detailed construction bid. This involves obtaining quotes from our subcontractors and material suppliers as well as a complete labor breakdown. We will also prepare an estimated schedule for your project.
Once you have approved all of the construction documents we will obtain the proper building permits and schedule your project. During the course of construction, if there are any revisions required, our design/build firm would seamlessly integrate these new designs into your project. The end result is a beautifully designed and meticulously crafted home built within your budget.
