The Design and Build Process for Your Home Addition in CT & MA
October 16, 2023
When planning a major home remodeling project, homeowners often seek construction companies that offer comprehensive design and build services. This approach integrates the design phase and the construction phase into a seamless process.
The specific methods used by general contractors can vary, but at Platinum Construction, we have developed a streamlined process to ensure your home addition project runs smoothly from start to finish.
Our method is a reflection of our deep experience in Connecticut and Massachusetts, and we want to share the key steps involved in bringing your vision to life.
CONTENT ON THIS ARTICLE
Phase 1: The Initial Consultation and Project Vision
At Platinum Construction, our design and build process always begins with a detailed conversation with our potential client. This discussion focuses on exactly what you want or need for your home addition, and importantly, why. The “why” is a very important consideration for any home remodeling project. This is the step where ideas begin to flourish and potential barriers to the process may be revealed.
Defining the Scope and Construction Budget
During this initial conversation, we discuss the size, location, and type of rooms you require. We also cover technical factors such as the location of existing electrical wiring and plumbing, and whether a full basement or crawl space is preferred. We also examine initial zoning and town setback regulations.
Once we have a general idea of the size and scope, we discuss the level of finish you would like. Finish details can include things like hardwood floors, high-end vanities, molding, and decorative glass doors. After these discussions, Platinum Construction LLC provides you with a very rough price range, which you can use to set a realistic construction budget. For a detailed and productive conversation, we recommend you plan 30-45 minutes for this initial consultative talk.
At the conclusion of this meeting, you can decide to take the next step and schedule an in-home visit.
Phase 2: Planning, Permitting, and Architectural Design
If both the client and Platinum Construction LLC feel we are a good fit, we schedule a meeting. Before this meeting, we begin some behind-the-scenes work to confirm that a building permit can be obtained. This work includes a check with the town zoning official and the sanitation department if necessary. Homes with a septic sewage system and well fall under extra regulations compared to those with city water and septic. This is particularly true if your home renovation project adds a bedroom. There are also times when we contact town building officials to talk about the potential project. This pre-work saves time and hassle down the road. Nothing is worse than dreaming of an addition only to discover you are out of compliance with regulations.
The Planning and Permitting Contract Phase
At the in-home consultation, we will discuss your vision, take measurements, and note any particular obstructions or issues that will require attention. The main purpose of this meeting is to meet in person, share the vision, and narrow down the range of your construction budget. Once this is complete, we’ll discuss these factors with you. If the budget is favorable and we both feel it would be a good working relationship, we will move into the Planning and Permitting Contract Phase.
During this phase, an initial meeting with the architect and Platinum Construction is arranged. Prior to this, we share general details with the architect. At the first meeting, the architect evaluates the site and confirms specific details about the intended project. A contract is then prepared for creating the building plans, required construction documents, and the town building permit.
From 3D Scans to Blueprints
After the initial meeting with the architect and the contract and deposit are executed, we schedule another meeting. During this visit, we perform a 3D Laser Scan of the entire area to establish elevations and existing conditions. We then convert these files into a format the architect uses to design the addition.
The architect provides the first round of plans, which include the layout, door and window locations, any required porches, foundation locations, and other relevant design information. We share these plans with you, and any changes you desire are conveyed to the architect. This phase includes two rounds of changes. Once you finalize a layout plan, the architect creates the construction documents, also called blueprints.
These documents include foundation, framing, and roof plans, final layouts, window and door specifications, and specific measurements and code compliance notes. We provide you with a PDF of the plans, and you own the plans.
Finalizing Paperwork and Starting Construction
Platinum Construction LLC’s final step in this process is to file all the required paperwork and fees with the town for building permit approval. This paperwork includes all license and insurance information, zoning compliance, and a full set of the blueprints. Once the permit is approved, construction can begin. Clients should expect this entire process to run between 2 to 3 months. In my next post, I will explain the beginning portions of construction for your home addition and what you should expect.
Begin Your Home Addition Project with Confidence
Embarking on a home addition project is a significant decision and a major investment in your property. While our design and build guide provides a clear overview of our process, the true value lies in the expertise and partnership we bring to every project. At Platinum Construction LLC, our decades of experience as trusted general contractors in Connecticut and Massachusetts mean we are not just building a new space—we are crafting a solution tailored to your family’s unique needs and lifestyle. We navigate the complexities of local zoning, permits, and architectural plans so you don’t have to. Our transparent process, from the initial conversation to the final blueprints, ensures that you are fully informed and confident in every step.
If you are ready to transform your home with a beautiful and functional home addition, don’t settle for anything less than a partner who is committed to your vision. We invite you to contact Platinum Construction to schedule your initial consultation. Let’s discuss your ideas, answer your questions, and start the journey of designing and building the space you’ve always envisioned. Reach out to us today to take the first step toward expanding your home and enhancing your quality of life.
Your Local Construction Experts in Connecticut & Massachusetts
At Platinum Construction, we have proudly served homeowners in Connecticut and Massachusetts for over 25 years. We are your local, trusted partners for building beautiful custom homes, seamless additions, and quality garages in your community.
We specialize in bringing visions to life across communities like:
- Connecticut: Ellington, Enfield, Suffield, and Somers
- Massachusetts: Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, Palmer, Hampden, Wilbraham, Sturbridge, Ware, and Monson
Send us a brief description of what you’re considering, and we’ll contact you for a free consultation. Let’s discuss how we can build your dream project right here in your neighborhood.
