The Goal of Design/Build
The goal of the Design/Build process is to maximize the ability to understand and then consistently meet and exceed your needs. We accomplish this by having the design and construction completed by using the talent of our unified and professional team. Our team consists of our sales/estimating/design consultants, a licensed architect and structural engineer, kitchen and bath specialists, experienced production crews, and administrative personnel, all working together for the best interest of our client.

Defining the Design/Build Process
We begin building a relationship with you from the first contact. Following an initial brief telephone interview, a Nuss consultant schedules a meeting to visit in your home for a complimentary consultation to discuss your needs and desires. We learn about your family, lifestyle, dreams, vision and the budget allocated for your home improvements. This information is important when designing a custom made project. At this time we explain the Design/Build process in detail, along with information about our team. Team requirements are determined at this point. References and a portfolio of our projects are also shared.

Preliminary Design & Estimate
Our Project Development Agreement is reviewed with you and authorized. The Nuss consultant, along with appropriate team members, will then meet with you to determine the scope of the project and take area measurements to create initial drawings designed to fit your lifestyle and accommodate your budget parameters. We will develop a thorough budget estimate based on this scope of work and the conceptual design. This budget will identify appropriate allowances for specific areas of the work where decisions or selections need to be completed.

Development
After review and approval of the conceptual design and budget estimate the design drawings are further developed to show the plan and elevation views along with sufficient structural detail to accurately estimate the final costs. Material selections are made to allow for completion of design details and accurate pricing of all aspects of the work. The Construction Agreement, tailored specifically for the custom project is presented.

Construction
Once the Agreement is authorized and a deposit is obtained, the permit drawings are prepared and submitted to the appropriate municipal building department for approval. While waiting for permit approval, any open selections are finalized. Materials with longer lead times are ordered. Sub-contracts with trade partners are executed and the construction schedule is developed. With thorough pre-planning our goal is begin construction with all parties having a clear understanding of what is being done, who is doing it, and when it is being done.

Communication
Prior to job start, a Pre-Construction Meeting is held with you, the homeowners, and your Nuss sales consultant along with the Nuss lead carpenter assigned to your project. Once construction begins, regular meetings are held between you and your lead carpenter to discuss the job progress and to answer questions. The scope of work, schedule, and details are all discussed at these meetings. Your sales consultant will remain involved throughout the project and will frequently attend the progress meetings. They are always available by phone if their input is needed at any time during the project.