As a homeowner, or business owner, when you're looking to start a renovation, it's hard to know where to start. Do you first find a contractor, then search for an architect/designer? Or do you work with a designer, then a contractor? In my opinion, the most efficient system is to find one company that does both.
In the industry, there are many examples of each kind of system. At Mountainside, we typically use the design/build system. We have trained designers on staff, who work directly with our project manager or lead carpenters to ensure the project runs smoothly, and problems that arise are dealt with head-on, and effectively. Why do we like this system?
1. Accountability. So many times, clients who hire separate designers and contractors complain that if (when) a problem arises, it becomes nothing but finger pointing. The designer doesn't need to take the blame, if he or she can blame the contractor. Contractors love blaming bad designers too.
2. Cost Effectiveness. I've been to so many meetings where homeowners want me to provide an estimate to complete their addition or renovation. They have the drawings in hand (that they have spent thousands of dollars on). When they start getting the pricing feedback, they are shocked. Many times, they've designed something that they can not possibly afford. With design/build, budget is as much of a design factor as the condition of the existing foundation of the house. You won't be paying to have a designer draw up a beautiful, but completely unattainable plan.
3. Streamlined Communication. Because our designers work with our construction team on a daily basis, we know how to read and understand the drawings, our carpenter can call the designer to site whenever needed, and we all know how to work well with each other. This saves time, and money.
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