What to Expect
Our Design-Build Remodeling Process has been perfected by assisting hundreds of homeowners. We’ll guide you, step-by-step, helping you make decisions that honor your home, your life, your style, and your budget. In the first step, here’s what you can expect:
Choosing Ben Quie & Sons
1. Speak With a Project Consultant
During business hours, someone from our office will contact you within 24 hours. In a brief phone call, we will gather more information and schedule a time for you to speak with your dedicated Project Consultant. If you decide to continue the conversation, we will arrange a visit to your home to discuss your project in detail.
2. Initial In-Home Meeting
This complimentary meeting is obligation‐free. We’ll assess the space, ask questions, and listen carefully to make sure we understand your goals and expectations. We’ll introduce you to our company and explain our process, so you know what to expect when you work with us. Because it’s important to honor the style of your home, we pay special attention to unique circumstances or architectural details.
3. Design & Development Agreement
If you choose to work with us, you’ll sign a Design & Development Agreement. Our fee varies depending on the size and complexity of the project. It covers the cost of design, pays for a complete set of construction plans, and secures your spot in the schedule. Next, we’ll schedule a time to measure your space and delve further into the details of your project.
Understanding the Cost of Remodeling
The cost will depend on the size of the space and the scope of the project – everything from framing to the faucet. When we design and build, we use high-quality materials, skilled tradespeople, master carpenters, and professional designers. Here are some of the ways we build value into your remodeling project.
With the right layout and design, any small room can live much larger. Professional design adds value by squeezing the most out of your space and your budget. Our design and production team brings innovative ideas to the table. Their attention to small details will make your home comfortable, beautiful, and efficient.
Straight lines and perfect corners are a mark of excellence. In order to achieve the highest levels of quality, it’s really important to tear out the old space. Here are three reasons we start by tearing it “down to the studs.”
1. The walls in old homes are not square.
The only way to create straight walls and square corners for you is to start with raw space (demo to the studs). Your new cabinets need new walls so they hang neatly and so moldings and trim fit just right. And there are often structural issues hidden behind 100-year-old walls.
2. You’ll be able to relocate pipes, drains, and gas lines.
Gutting the space also creates an opportunity to relocate your laundry hookups. This is a great way to achieve greater accessibility as you get older (and we all do!). Plumbing issues above and below the kitchen can also be addressed when the framing is exposed. This can save you money down the road.
3. Most older homes are “under-wired” for modern lifestyles.
Many 20th-century homes were not designed to carry the electrical load of modern appliances. Electrical upgrades eliminate the hazards and inconvenience of extension cords. You’ll have electrical outlets where you need them, instead of extension cords tucked behind the kitchen table. Your kitchen or bathroom design can include high- and low-voltage wiring for recessed lighting, under-cabinet lighting, accent lighting, additional outlets, TVs, security systems, small appliances, charging stations, and more.
In older homes, we often encounter original “knob and tube” wiring. Building codes require electrical upgrades if the walls are open.
Our team is an exceptional group of people. Skilled and talented folk who truly enjoy the process of restoring and renovating old homes. You can count on us to be kind and considerate.
- A complete set of detailed construction plans is your blueprint for success.
- We follow all the building codes and local ordinances. Nothing is “under the radar.”
- In urban areas, building codes often prohibit even small bump-outs. If your remodeling project requires a variance, we’ll navigate the process for you.
- The trade partners who will be working in your home are licensed and insured.
- They are reliable, skilled professionals with high standards who will show up on time and treat your home with respect.
- A smooth process is the result of experience (knowing how much time it will take) and planning (having materials and labor ready at the right time).
- Before we start work, everything will be set up to happen in the right amount of time in the right order, like pieces of a puzzle falling into place.
- A dedicated project manager will be the single point of contact for your remodeling project.
We've got your back.
We are humbled by the trust that our clients place in us. We return it by acting with integrity – from our building practices, to design, to communication, and prompt attention to any issues that may come up. You can count on us to do what’s right.
Design Inspiration
Choosing to start a remodeling project is an exciting decision—enjoy the process and take a moment to explore past projects for inspiration!