Ironwood Studio's Guide to a Realistic Design-Build Project Investment

It’s important to understand the ins and outs of a design-build investment if you want to stay on budget. With so many selections required & custom options available, it’s easy to over design and get caught up in the decision overload. I'll be walking through how to prepare for that conversation and define that investment.

Step #1: Understanding the Ins & Outs of Any Investment

The investment will depend on what type of home you’re building, is it a simple box or multi-dimensional? Character upgrades like masonry, millwork, beams and custom built-ins all play a huge factor in the overall design-build cost.

 Step #2: Write Out, Research & Revise the Overall Wishlist

We encourage clients to create a list of needs, wants, and long-shots. It’s important to get all decision-makers on the same page. We suggest researching the cost of items and labor to set realistic expectations. Splurging on areas where you feel it’s important like the Kitchen & Primary Bath while keeping other areas more conservative helps keep the budget in check.

Step #3: Set a Meeting & Stay Open-Minded Throughout

We encourage discussing investment within the first 3 design-build meetings. It helps keep everyone on the same page while setting realistic expectations. Our role is guiding clients from initial floor plans to finishes, ensuring the flow, function & aesthetic direction is in alignment with your needs, wants & vision. Quotes for labor & products come after all the selections have been made. The investment amount is finalized after architectural plans & selections have been confirmed.

Our team’s vast knowledge and many years of experience will be with you every step of the way in setting an investment level you are comfortable with...and in crafting the home of your dreams.

Wondering what it will take to start your own design project? We'd love to chat with you about it!

 Until next time,

Virginia