OUR BASICS
What Is Design Build?
Our design-build process means you’re working with the NICKS Developments team from start to finish. We help pair you with an amazing designer, architect, and craftsman or to create a design concept that aligns with your budget. We manage the process of representing the ideas, the finances, and all the multitude of sub-trades and suppliers required for this complex process.
Why Chose a Design Build Process
Building a new house is an exciting process, but it’s not without its challenges. In Toronto, homeowners prefer to design and build projects because they can be more involved in the process. NICKS Developments’ design and build project management team allows for faster and more fluid versions of architectural drawings and designs. Since the entire team is all with one company and they are equally invested in the designs, if you have a question or issue that needs to be addressed, we are able to quickly pivot and be responsive to ongoing changes. The ability to work with a team who can manage all services involved pre-construction, as well as stay updated on progress throughout construction, saves time and costs compared to the business model of head contractor third-party vendors.
With a large renovation or new construction project, it is important to have constant communication between engineers, designers, as well as workers on site so that everything runs smoothly. From the start of work until completion, the goal is to operate without any critical errors happening along the way which could cost time and/or money. The design and build concept arose as a more popular option due in part to how NICKS Developments was able to manage everything upfront while saving time during planning steps, cutting down errors made along the way through better coordination among team members. Call us for a more in-depth discussion about how you can start your project today!
Process
We are a full-service design-build company in Toronto. Our process is designed to take you through the construction process in a straightforward manner. By combining quality and innovation, we are committed to completing your building project in a timely, cost-effective way. Our expertise in the different required trades means that you can depend on our design-build services.
Initial Consultation
This free first step is where we discuss your vision in detail. We gather details so we can provide you with a better construction estimate.
Design Development
This is where we flesh out your vision as well as offer innovative design ideas. We explore several custom home design options based on your location, space, and needs.
Construction Drawings
Our design team, which includes certified architects, works with you to develop 3D rendering and photographs. This way, you get a workable final design you can visualize to determine if you’re happy with it.
Design Planning
This part of the process delves into the details of what the building will involve. This means deciding on everything from the floor to the ceiling, including the necessary systems such as plumbing and electrical.
Build
With the necessary permits and other paperwork in place, which we take care of, our building team of experts gets to work on construction. We execute your vision and keep you updated throughout the process via our communication platform.
Completion
Once the design-build construction is completed, you can now call the space your own. What was once a dream is now a beautiful home with several guarantees in place.
What We Include with Design Build
Site assessment
A necessary step is visiting the site for your intended home. We look at the natural features and on-site structures. We also evaluate the surrounding areas to get an idea of designs that would work best for the terrain and fit in well with the rest of the neighbourhood.
Land survey
Before construction, we need to perform a land survey. This will confirm the boundary lines of the property. It also gives us a detailed understanding of any underground structures such as water pipes, sewage systems, and power lines so that they’re not damaged during the construction process.
Permit applications
Any construction on your property requires a permit. To get this, we submit the required drawings to the city. These include the site, lot grading, floor, and roof plans. Elevations, sections, and construction details are also submitted. We also apply for plumbing and mechanical permits. We are familiar with the process, so we handle it efficiently to spare you the hassle of endless paperwork.
Drawings
Our design team provides detailed drawings needed to successfully complete your construction project. These include architectural, engineered, and structural+ drawings. This ensures that you have a home that is structurally sound but does not compromise on aesthetic appeal. Since we are a one-stop design-build firm, we also take care of the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC (mechanical) system drawings.
Design concepts and renderings
To give you a better idea of what to expect, we come up with a design concept that includes the schedules of accommodation, cost estimates, procurement options, the construction outline and logistics, and the final project brief. We also show you 3D renderings so that you can better visualize how your home will look.
Material finish selection
We work with you to select materials that will achieve the final look you’re going for within your budget. Some of the materials will be restricted by building codes. We also take into consideration how different materials interact, their cost and availability, and the climate so that we end up with a strong building that also fits your aesthetic vision.
Inspection
Throughout the building process, we conduct regular inspections to make sure that your expectations are being met in terms of materials, design, and timeline. We also want to ensure the health and safety for our construction team and that all our work adheres to the construction plan and building codes.
Walk Throughs
Throughout construction and upon its completion, we will perform a check to make sure that everything is done according to specification and any mistakes are corrected. We also go through the house with you and note any issues you may be concerned with. This is also when we go over maintenance and answer any questions you may have.
What You Get with NICKS Developments
Dedicated Design Build Contractors
If you’re looking for a renovation or building project, we have the answers to help get started. We want your home’s design process to be as smooth sailing as possible, so contact one of our representatives today!
We’re a team that listens to our clients and offers them everything they need. We take pride in being able to provide this for every home buyer we work with, no matter how big or small their project may be! If you want an estimate along the process as well please contact one of the representatives now so it can get started on time without any delays
Our team is dedicated to making your home-building experience as smooth, easy, and enjoyable as possible. We want you not only satisfied but excited about the process!
How Long Is The Design and Build Process?
The team at NICKS Developments is experienced in designing and building unique home renovation projects.
Our process is flexible and tailored specifically for your needs. It can be as quick or long-lasting, depending on what you’re looking for and how we can make it convenient to fit within your availability and schedule!
The design-build process is not one-size-fits-all. It depends on what you want to do with your home and how complex of a project it will be. In general, we allow our customers enough time for planning throughout the entire renovation or construction process from start (design) right up until completion when they receive their final product at hand!
How Much Does Design and Build Cost?
There is no definitive cost or set price for how much a renovation project totals. Every project varies based on your specific needs, timeframe, and budget. To determine how much it will cost, however, first, we provide quotes for the initial design with the floor plan. After understanding the full scope of work, NICKS Developments’ project manager discusses the approximate budget for materials inside and on the outside of the house for finishes.
We communicate with homeowners at every step of the project so they stay in the know and are informed of the prices. We stand by our honest business practices so there will not be any hidden fees or surprises. The only instance of a price increase is if the client requests additional work or increases the initial budget for fixtures and finish details.
Design and Build Company in Toronto
NICKS Developments’ design and build services eliminate the need to constantly communicate between multiple parties from general contractors, to designers, to architects.
Our company will be there every step of the way to work with designers, architects, and dozens of trade teams to oversee the outstanding execution of old home renovations and new build projects in Toronto.
Working with one company is the easier and more efficient way to take care of absolutely everything, saving you valuable time, money, and headache.
Our response times are the best in the business.
You won’t find a builder that gets back to you faster than we do. We update your build progress daily. You can access your build status at any time. We also use a communication platform to stay connected with you. This platform allows us to share important files and data, and it allows you to provide us feedback and ask questions.
FAQs
The difference between a design-build and a design-bid-build process lies in how the construction teams are assembled. With design-build, the designers, builders, and trade teams all work within the same company, so it’s one team that works from start to finish. With design-bid-build, designers and builders are hired independently following a bid.
Because we follow the design-build model, every team member is equally dedicated to completing your project to your expectations. Our team also has the quickest response times in the industry. We are flexible, honest, and transparent. We always meet our goal of building within the budget expectations and timeline.
Energy efficiency is a growing concern for homeowners. Our innovative designs make the best use of natural lighting and other natural resources. We take the climate into consideration when it comes to roofing and insulation. We can also incorporate various eco-friendly technology into your home such as on-demand water heaters, LED lights, energy-efficient windows, and gas stoves.
When you opt for design-build construction, you eliminate the headache of following up on different design, building, and trade teams. Things are less likely to get lost in translation as is often the case when construction work is performed by various teams. You are also better able to keep a single team accountable and communicate more directly.
Learn More…
Talk to a builder 416 899 3394
Start your free in-home consultation.
There are no obligations tied to this consultation. As premier Toronto custom home builders this is an opportunity for us to meet and for you to ask questions. At this stage its all about understanding and capturing your vision. There are no up-front costs either and the fixed-price proposal is entirely free. We’ll get to discuss your build in detail and take measurements to ensure we can provide an accurate estimate.
Talk to a builder 416 899 3394