Design-Build Studio
A Process Built
Around Precision
Five steps from your home to the finished space. The design is defined and approved before construction is priced, with one team responsible from the first visit to the final walkthrough.
Industry Credentials
Much of the frustration in remodeling comes from an undefined process: not knowing what happens next, or what a price is based on.
Our process separates design from construction. Design work is defined in a proposal, developed with you and approved before we prepare a construction proposal. Each of the five steps below has a defined purpose and defined outcomes.
Property Consultation
The first appointment takes place at your property. We walk the space with you, talk through how you live and what you want to change, and discuss your budget range and timing. Our team documents the space with measurements and reference photos. This visit is about understanding the project; design work begins once a design proposal is agreed.
Design & Preconstruction Proposal
After the property consultation, we prepare a design and preconstruction proposal. It defines the design fee, scope and schedule, along with the deliverables and revisions defined in your design proposal, such as layouts and plans, 3D renderings and finish selections. It also identifies whether engineering, permit drawings and permit services are included, excluded or priced separately, so nothing is assumed.
Design Development & Design Center Visit
With the proposal agreed, our interior designers develop layouts, renderings and selections. You then join us at the Design Center to review the design direction in person, including cabinetry, door styles, materials and finishes. Refinements follow the revisions defined in your design proposal.
Design Approval & Construction Proposal
When the design and selections are approved, we prepare a construction proposal based on that approved design. Because the proposal is built from finished design decisions rather than allowances and guesses, you can review scope and pricing with a clear picture of what will be built.
Construction & Final Walkthrough
Construction follows the approved design and construction proposal, under our California general contractor license. Custom cabinetry is made in our own shop as part of our design-build offering. At completion, we walk the finished space with you and review any final items together.
Why a Defined Process Matters
Design is defined first
Your design proposal sets the fee, scope, schedule, deliverables and revisions before design work begins.
Pricing follows decisions
The construction proposal is prepared from the approved design and selections, so scope and price describe the same project.
One team throughout
The team that designs your space also makes your cabinetry and builds the project, from the first visit to the final walkthrough.
Common Questions About the Process
Where does the first appointment take place?
At your property. We discuss your goals, budget range and timing, and our team documents the space. The Design Center visit comes later, once a design proposal is agreed and design development is underway.
What happens if I want to make changes after the contract is signed?
Changes after contract execution are handled through a documented change order process. The change is described in writing, priced, and signed off before any modification is made to scope or materials. No verbal agreements — every change is a written addendum. This protects both the client and the project budget.
How do you handle permit processing in different San Diego jurisdictions?
San Diego County has multiple permitting jurisdictions, including the City of San Diego, the County, and cities such as Del Mar, Encinitas, Carlsbad and Coronado, each with different requirements and timelines. Your proposal identifies whether engineering, permit drawings and permit services are included, excluded or priced separately, so permit responsibilities are clear before work begins.
Will I have a single point of contact during construction?
Yes. Your project manager is your primary contact throughout construction. They coordinate all trade scheduling, manage daily site operations, and provide regular updates. You have their direct contact information and can reach them by phone or text. You're not routed through a general intake line.
What does the 2-year workmanship warranty cover?
The warranty covers defects in workmanship — issues that arise from how the work was performed rather than normal material wear. Cabinet door alignment drift, tile grout cracking due to installation technique, and similar workmanship-related issues are covered. Material manufacturer warranties apply separately to products. Warranty terms are documented in writing at project completion.
Request a Design Consultation
Tell us about your home and what you would like to change. We'll contact you to discuss your project and confirm the next step.
Ready to Start the Process?
Every project begins with a property consultation at your home. Call us, or send a project inquiry and we'll contact you to confirm the next step.