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A general contractor (GC) plays an extremely important role in a home project. In short, a GC oversees the project from start to finish, ensuring that each portion of the project is done well. Working with a general contractor takes out a lot of the logistical stress of a home project and is highly recommended. Wondering what specifically falls into the parameters of a GC’s job? We’re here to explain what a general contractor does and to offer some tips when hiring a GC.

There are many ways to go about getting a home project done, but we believe wholeheartedly that the design-build method is best. The factors that play into a home project are numerous and change and evolve over the course of the project—budgeting, scheduling, labor management, and permitting are just a few of the items you will have to consider if you choose to manage a home project on your own. A design-build approach alleviates the stress by handling all aspects of the project to ensure the best outcome without all of the stress that usually accompanies a home project.

So you’ve made the decision to finally begin that home renovation project you’ve had your heart set on for all of these years. The question now isn’t whether or not you are going to go through with the project, but rather where to begin. The start of a home renovation project can feel simply overwhelming. There are many considerations and decision to be made along the way, but making wise choices from the outset will mean a smooth home project with a great end result. If you’ve recently decided to get a home project going but aren’t sure where to begin, we hope the following pointers will help you get off to a good start!

Here are the three major steps you can take to get your project off on the right foot:

Choosing a Design-Build firm is a smart move for many reasons. (Not sure why? Visit our previous post for more information: What is Design-Build?)

Now that you’ve decided that design-build is the route you want to go, it’s time to get to the business of choosing a firm to hire. There are more and more design-build firms popping up across the country, and chances are that you’ll have several options in your town or city when it comes to choosing a group.

There are a few things you’ll want to consider as you begin seeking out a design-build firm, and today we are sharing a list of 5 questions that are important to ask each potential firm before making your final selection.  

A well-designed and curated indoor/outdoor space will quickly become the automatic favorite spot in your home for entertaining, relaxation, and everyday living. During the transitional seasons of spring and fall, indoor/outdoor spaces are especially appealing. Perhaps you have an indoor/outdoor space that needs a little sprucing up and love, or maybe you are considering an indoor/outdoor space as a part of a renovation or addition. We want to share a few tips and recommendations for creating a truly perfect indoor/outdoor space in your home.

Simply put, design-build is the most simple, efficient way for a homeowner to tackle a build or renovation project. Instead of contracting two separate entities (a designer/architect and a builder), a homeowner is required to contract and communicate with just one company in a design-build project. 

Marks-Woods is all about staying on top of what’s new and exciting when it comes to design. Danielle Walther, our interior designer, recently returned from the KBIS (Kitchen & Bath Industry Show) in Las Vegas to discover top trends for 2019 and beyond. Her experience at the show has her more excited than ever to collaborate with clients to create beautiful interiors.

Making the choice to renovate your home, whether on a small or large scale, can be an exciting yet overwhelming decision. “Where do I begin?” is usually the first question a homeowner asks. We think that considering a few important items before getting started with a home renovation makes the rest of the project easier and more efficient.