ELM Construction’s Design/Build Process

At ELM Construction, we believe that a successful remodel starts with clear expectations. That’s why we’re sharing our process—so you know what to expect at every stage, from the initial consultation to the final walkthrough. Transparency helps ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience, giving you confidence in every decision along the way.

OUR PROCESS

Our Simple, 4-Step Process

As a design-build contractor, we streamline the remodeling process by handling both design and construction under one roof. This approach improves coordination, enhances efficiency, and creates more practical, buildable designs—saving you both time and money.

One team, one plan, one contract. That means a seamless experience from the initial concept through construction to project completion.

Step 1: Let’s Talk

We see beyond the ordinary to create extraordinary lower-level spaces that extend your living area in meaningful ways. Transform your basement into an entertainment zone with professional acoustics, or create a climate-controlled wine cellar for your collection. A private fitness studio or executive home office can give you the space you need to pursue your passions, while a fully appointed guest suite welcomes visitors in style.

Step 2: Let’s Meet

This is our “discovery” meeting and it usually takes one to two hours. Here are some things you should know about this meeting:

  • We’ll take a tour of your space and encourage you to share your vision for the project. What do you like about the existing space? What do you dislike? What are your needs? Or just as important, what are your wants?

  • We’ll have a real conversation about what things cost and timelines. It’s important that we all have similar expectations as we move forward.

  • We encourage everyone that will have ANY input on your project to participate in this meeting. We’ll cover a lot of important information and we want to make sure everyone has an opportunity to ask questions.

Step 3: Let’s Design & Plan

The “project development” phase is perhaps the most important part of the entire process! There are two major components to the “project development” phase; Design and Detail.

DESIGN

  1. We’ll measure the existing spaces to accurately recreate them in our design software, Chief Architect. We can then create conceptual designs for your renovation and review them in our office. We’ll start with drafts of proposed floorplans, elevations, and even 3D renderings of your renovation. Then we'll narrow down the designs to your favorite and start the “details” phase.

DETAILS

  1. Collaborating with our award-winning designer, you’ll begin the selection process. For some, this is the most intimidating part of a renovation. But our designer will shepherd you through the entire process, helping as much or as little as you’d like.

  2. Our experienced team will meet with trade partners at your home to check your existing systems (electrical, plumbing, structural, etc.) and work with the appropriate building departments to make sure your project is feasible. This eliminates or lessens the chance of running into major surprises during the construction process.

  3. At the end of the “project development” phase, we’ll present to you a contract with a detailed scope of work and a guaranteed fixed price!

Step 4: Let’s Renovate

Believe it or not, the construction phase is usually the easiest of all phases! You’ve already done most of the hard decision making during the project development phase. Now we finalize the construction schedule, apply for necessary building permits, confirm time tables with our trade partners and start work!