When most people think about remodeling their home, they picture the “after”—beautifully finished spaces, upgraded materials, and a home that fits their lifestyle perfectly. But at Bowers Design Build, we know that the real key to a successful remodel isn’t just in the final touches—it’s in the process we follow from day one.
Our approach has been refined over decades of working in McLean, Arlington, Vienna, Great Falls, and across Northern Virginia, and it’s built to ensure clarity, creativity, and confidence every step of the way.
Here’s an inside look at how permits, planning, and production fit into our signature three-phase process:
Phase 1: Schematic Design & Preliminary Budget
This is where your dream begins to take shape. In this first phase, we work closely with you to establish the foundation for the entire project—capturing your ideas, defining your goals, and translating them into an actionable plan.
Key steps include:
-
Design & Estimating Agreement – Once we’ve aligned on your goals, timeline, and high-level vision, we execute the Design/Estimating Agreement to begin formal design and budgeting.
-
Site Documentation – Our team visits your home to gather detailed measurements, photographs, and notes. This ensures every design decision is based on accurate, real-world information.
-
Concept Development – We create initial floor plans and design concepts tailored to your lifestyle, architectural style, and needs.
-
Design Working Session – We collaborate with you to refine these concepts, confirm budget feasibility, and discuss design details.
-
Schematic Design Presentation – We incorporate your feedback into a revised design, updated budget, and preliminary construction schedule.
-
Plan + Scope Approval – Once approved, we move forward with a clear, targeted budget and a defined plan for the next phase.
By the end of Phase 1, you’ll have a well-developed design concept and a realistic preliminary budget—setting the stage for seamless progress.
Phase 2: Design Development & Associated Budgeting
With your schematic design approved, it’s time to get into the details. This is where we refine your design, finalize selections, and prepare for construction with precision.
Key steps include:
-
Site Revisit (As Needed) – We may return to your home to reassess specific areas, update measurements, or confirm site conditions.
-
Product Selections + Design Refinement – Working closely with your design team, you’ll choose fixtures, finishes, and materials while we integrate them into the design.
-
Trade Day Walkthrough – Our production team meets with key trade partners at your home to review the project in person, align on scope, and confirm pricing.
-
Design Development Presentation – You’ll see updated drawings, refined scopes of work, and revised budgets, along with your chosen product specifications.
-
Approval to Finalize Documents – Once you sign off on design, selections, and costs, we advance to preparing the final construction documentation.
This phase is where many of the permitting preparations happen behind the scenes. We gather all technical drawings, finalize product details, and ensure everything is ready for submission to your local building department.
Phase 3: Construction Documentation & Mobilization
This is where all of the planning, design, and decision-making comes together in preparation for construction. It’s also the point where permits are secured so that your project can move forward without delays.
Key steps include:
-
Site Verification (If Needed) – We confirm final site measurements and conditions to ensure construction documents are completely accurate.
-
Final Selections & Specifications – Every finish, fixture, and technical detail is documented for clarity during construction.
-
Order Long-Lead Items – We proactively order any materials or products with extended lead times to safeguard your project schedule.
-
Submit for Permitting – Our team prepares and submits all necessary documents to your jurisdiction, handling all communication with the building department until permits are approved.
-
Construction Agreement Execution – You review and sign a comprehensive contract that includes final pricing, scope, projected start and finish dates, and an itemized list of all approved selections.
-
Pre-Construction Meeting – We introduce you to your dedicated Site Manager, review the detailed construction plan, and outline what to expect during the build.
By the time we start construction, everything is ready—permits in place, materials ordered, schedules aligned—so the production stage runs efficiently and predictably.
Why This Process Works
Remodeling your home is a major investment, both financially and emotionally. By breaking it down into clear, manageable phases, we make sure you always know where your project stands, what comes next, and how your decisions impact the outcome.
From the first design sketch to the final walkthrough, our focus is on delivering not only a stunning finished space but also a stress-free experience. Our proven process allows us to manage complexity, avoid delays, and uphold the highest standards of craftsmanship.
Ready to start your own remodeling journey? Whether you’re dreaming of a kitchen renovation, a whole-home remodel, or a custom addition, our team is here to guide you through every permit, plan, and production milestone.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward your dream home.
