Our Process
WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY
Custom Cabinet/Millwork projects present unlimited choices of shapes, colors and sizes. Since they are built to exact specifications, they usually take longer to build and have a higher price. Due to the uniqueness of custom work, design is a critical part of our process. This is reflected in our process steps below.
1. CONCEPT DRAWINGS*
We will work with our clients to develop concept drawings at no charge. These drawings are a quick way to explore ideas. They are not intended to be definitive, but are a way of identifying options and preferences. This phase of our process typically includes discussions, photo/idea sharing, and perhaps a site visit. Among things considered during this phase are:
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Design styles
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Size requirements / limitations
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Functionality / purpose / features of the project
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Material selection (solid wood, exotic wood, plywood, etc.)
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Finishing options (paint, stain, lacquer, unfinished)
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Installation options
*Typically, we receive conceptual drawings from a client’s architect or interior designer. In these cases, this step is waived
2. CONCEPTUAL ESTIMATE
Based on the concept drawings, industry knowledge, and prior experience, we will provide a conceptual estimate to our client. This is a very rough cost estimate used to determine if the client’s budget is in alignment with the concept. If our client accepts the conceptual estimate as viable, we will proceed to the next step in the process.
3. SHOP DRAWINGS
The development of shop drawings will enable us to capture completely all elements of a project and the associated costs. Many aspects of a project can change as the design develops, and these changes can affect the cost and lead time. Due to the time required to produce this level of detail, there is a fee to produce shop drawings. If our client ultimately commissions us to build their project, this fee is waived.
4. QUOTATION
Once shop drawings are approved, we will present a detailed quotation. In addition to project design and construction details, the quotation will include lead times and payment terms.