A quick overview of some ballpark timelines for the interior design and construction of a custom home in the Calgary area.
You've been dreaming about renovating or building a custom new home for years and you've decided that now is the time to make that dream a reality. I know we all want our projects done yesterday - who doesn't like immediate gratification? But to avoid disappointment, it's important to understand the phases of interior designing and renovating and to set realistic expectations.
Setting your timeline and the deliverables with your team will help you prepare for the emotional ups and downs expected. Although every design-build or renovation varies based on size of the home and the scope of work, we have some general guidelines for the time each phase takes to help you plan.
Phase 1: Planning
I'm sure you've heard the saying that "a goal without a plan is just a wish"... The same can be said of creating a beautiful home and you should expect (and want) this phase to be well thought out and comprehensive. The planning phase includes documenting your space, capturing your input and desires, completing an architectural review (if you are working with an architect), creating a floor plan and detailed construction drawings, conducting a trade day(s) to procure written quotes and prepare proposals and the selection of all of your fixtures, finishes and often furnishings.
How Long It Can Take: When you're building or renovating a custom home, there's no hard-and-fast timeline. Some clients are very decisive and responsive, and others hesitate or take more time to make their decisions. That is why the planning phase typically takes two to four months to complete.
Phase 2: Procurement
We all know by now that supply chain issues are a very real issue when it comes to completing your renovation or new build, so to avoid delays, all procurement should be completed as soon as the planning phase is complete. Appliances are taking anywhere from 2 months to a year+ to land on site. Building materials are in high demand and in some cases, short supply.
How Long It Can Take: Although timing will be dependent on the scope of the project and the contractor's schedule, they won't be able to finish your project if your tile is still in the Port of Spain or your lights are missing in action. The 2 - 4 months of the procurement phase will allow your design-build team to place orders, track deliveries and resolve any product deficiencies.
Phase 3: Construction
Demolition, framing, window installation, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, drywall...these are just a few of the potential tasks that will need to take place during the construction phase before the "pretty" even begins. Add to that cabinetry installation, millwork, flooring, tile, painting, installing fixtures. and you can understand why the construction phase can just feel SOOOO LONG.
How Long It Can Take: Your construction phase will typically take 4 - 8 months for a full renovation or build. Building a large custom home? That may take longer. And the opposite can be said of a partial renovation. During this phase, your home will get worse before it gets better. It's a great time to take a holiday or plan something fun to help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that can come along with the muss and fuss.
Phase 4: Installation
It's official, construction is complete, and you can't wait to move in!! Now what? Now you'll have to be patient for just a wee bit longer while your punch list is resolved, your home is cleaned and any final furnishings, art or accessories we've procured for you are delivered and installed.
How Long It Can Take: Although the installation phase is typically short at 1 - 2 weeks, it may be tempting to try to move in prior to completion. Hey, we understand! But, a little more patience will allow you the full and glorious experience of moving into YOUR home - shiny clean, tailored specifically to you and your family, exactly as you dreamed of.
Reading this, you may be surprised by the amount of time completing a new build or renovation takes, but I promise, it will be worth the wait. You deserve a serene home that fits every aspect of who you are and how you live. A space that thrills you to come home to and you are proud to share with others...and we'd love to be a part of the team that makes that happen for you.
Ready for a home that supports your happiest life? Let's talk and see what we can create together.
Until next time,
Michelle
