Frequently Asked Questions

Design Build is ideal for all residential projects and perfect for customers who want a more active role in planning their project and who appreciate the convenience and consistency of working with one firm from start to finish. In essence, you have greater participation in the entire process.

During documentation, we will carefully measure your existing conditions and/or affected rooms so we can accurately plot your current home into our design software. At this time we will also take numerous pictures in an effort to help us evaluate the details (structural and practical) of your project. At our office, we will start the process of plotting, drafting and designing your ideas into the three dimensional drawings.

Once the drawings are complete, our Project Estimator will start developing a preliminary budget based on the drawings we produced. We will perform a preliminary feasibility analysis and review items (setbacks, zoning, permit process, codes, etc) that may be required for your project. When these items are completed, we will schedule the Design Meeting(s).

At the Design Meeting(s), we will meet and review the design(s) we created for your project and discuss our estimated project cost based on the design(s) and offer options as necessary. We will also discuss various finish items (trim, siding, cabinetry, countertops, etc) that are available. We will present to you a color virtual three dimensional color viewing of your proposed project on our 42” LCD screen and 36”x 24” drawings with applicable views and floor plans. Once we have made your desired changes, we agree on the design and costs we will sign a Pre - Construction Contract.

The design agreement is the step that will start the process of turning your ideas into reality via concept drawings. After the Design Agreement is signed, we will schedule an appointment to come out and document your house so we have the necessary information to create your preliminary drawings.

The Pre - Construction Contract will move us closer to starting the actual construction of your project. The cost is generally a % of the estimated construction cost defined during the Design Meeting(s). Please note that this fee is applied towards the construction contract. We will take your feedback from the Design Meeting(s) and alter the plans with changes and modifications you suggest. Once you agree to these changes, we will start to finalize your construction drawings.

The construction drawings will include elevations, floor plans, foundation plans, cross sections and electrical plans. If necessary, we will have our construction drawings reviewed by a Registered Architect or Engineer licensed in CT or NY to review structural components and stamp the plans accordingly. We will firm up all of our estimates so we can provide a final cost to build for the Construction Contract. We will do a more in depth feasibility of site conditions and permits and apply for any applicable variances or approvals (Wetlands, Zoning, Board of Health, etc) so we are prepared to apply for the building permit once the Construction Contract is signed.

Congratulations! We can now start the construction of your project. Once the contract is signed we will enter your project into our production and construction schedule and submit permits to the building department. We will also start ordering materials (windows, flooring, cabinets, etc). Your Design and Project Coordinator will set up a pre-construction meeting with both of you and the Project Manager to discuss timelines, coordination and what to expect during the construction process in greater detail.

Design Builders and Remodeling is fully insured and carries comprehensive Workers Compensation, General Liability and Umbrella Liability. Coverage limits range from $1,000,000 under general liability to $5,000,000 under our Umbrella Liability policy. Our workers are covered under Workers Compensation. As the homeowner, you will still need to apply for a builders risk policy to cover certain areas of the house that our insurance may not cover and would be more appropriate to get a builders risk policy from your existing carrier and/or agent.

Our internal team of designers is very experienced and educated in designs and construction. Our Design team has won numerous awards and takes advantage of the latest computer technology as well as ongoing education. Simply put, our Design team will develop aesthetic, functional, structural and cost efficient designs based on the design parameters developed with your input earlier in the process. If you choose to engage the services of an architect or if you have plans, we will work with your architect to ensure the house design is in line with your construction budget and work together to make necessary changes required for codes and/or permits.

If we cannot satisfy your design or budget requirements or if you're not happy in any way, our Agreement can be terminated and you may keep the Preliminary plans.

Design Builders & Remodeling is a full service residential design build firm headquartered in Ridgefield, Connecticut. The firm has proudly serviced discriminating buyers in Fairfield, Westchester, Litchfield and Putnam Counties since 1986.

The company was started David H. Adams who continues as the President and running daily operations. David envisioned a company that would provide a comprehensive offering of services that bring together the professional design, budgeting and construction of new homes, additions, kitchens and remodeling projects.

The Design Build approach to building brings together professional design and construction expertise. One company handles both design and construction, which means you enjoy greater continuity of service. This joining of the design and construction functions also can save you time and money, and helps make you, the customer, more of a partner in the construction and remodeling of your home.

As the customer, you are the most important member of the Design Build team. Your wishes and ideas drive design, materials, selections, timelines and budget for your project. Your role will be to make selections and let us know what you like and do not like. With our Designers at your disposal, Design Builders & Remodeling will interpret your wishes into the design, obtain permits and build your project that will convert your ideas into reality.