Our Process

Step 1: Complimentary Design Consultation

The initial design consultation is our first opportunity to review your project with you in person. We listen to your needs and objectives for the project, review the existing conditions to determine the project’s feasibility, and define an initial scope of work in order to make sure we understand what you want. We’ll present you with a Preliminary Design Agreement that outlines the costs and steps needed to move your project forward. Your project’s complexity and the amount of background research necessary to determine the project’s feasibility will determine a retainer amount.

Step 2: Preliminary Design Agreement & Retainer

In exchange for the retainer,  we’ll review the local zoning and construction ordinances. We’ll also measure and photograph your existing space. Then we’ll prepare sketches of our solution to communicate our understanding of your needs and objectives and project’s constraints. This graphic representation of your project helps to further define the project’s details which, in turn, helps to determine the initial budget. We can also determine a timeline for the work and have a viable discussion about the best time to commence construction. Upon approval of the preliminary design, budget, and timeline, we can proceed to the Construction Documentation Agreement.

Step 3: Design Development Agreement

Using this agreement, we create the necessary drawing documentation needed to obtain a building permit, secure subcontractor pricing, and ultimately build from. It’s during this phase that we refine the preliminary design into something more concrete.  The size and shape of spaces and the materials used to construct them are defined. We’ll work with you to select finish materials, like cabinets & countertops.  Then we’ll use this information to assemble a solid cost of construction and apply for a building permit. The fee for Construction Documents is typically 10% of the overall construction cost. Upon approval of the final construction drawings, materials specifications, and construction budget, we can proceed to the Construction Agreement and begin building your project.

Step 4: Construction Agreement

Prior to the start of construction, your project will be given a project start date and projected finish date. We will assign a project manager to your project  to begin securing materials and subcontractors in accordance with the project schedule. Our project management and construction teams also meet with you to review all aspects of your project. Our Construction Manager will properly prepare the site for construction and will review the construction schedule with you in detail. Every effort will be made to limit the construction’s impact on your daily routine. On a weekly basis, we will meet with you to review the work completed, discuss upcoming work, and iron out any issues uncovered during construction to keep you informed at every step of the process.

Step 5: Project Completion

About 1-2 weeks before the completion of your project, we will meet with you to discuss any outstanding items that may need additional attention or adjustment. A Punch List will be generated to document these items and we will work to fix them as soon as possible. We’ll broom clean the construction site and provide you with any documentation for the service and care of new products installed in your project. Once you are settled back in your new space, should you need any further assistance we will be there for your call. Seven Oaks warranties all of its work and craftsmanship for one year and any manufacturer’s warranties for products you purchased will also be applicable.