Remodeling your home can feel overwhelming, but choosing the right team can make all the difference. Asking the right questions before hiring a design-build firm can help you know what to expect and feel more confident throughout the process.
Know Who You’re Hiring
When comparing Atlanta design-build firms, look beyond the portfolio and consider the company behind the work. How long have they been in business, and do they have established experience in your area and with homes like yours? Check client reviews, ask for references from past projects, and make sure the firm carries appropriate general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
For Atlanta homeowners, especially those renovating historic homes, choose a team familiar with local permitting and historic preservation requirements, and one willing to manage that process on your behalf. A reputable firm should clearly explain its process for both the design and construction phases, provide a documented warranty, and answer your questions transparently. Don’t overlook the personal side of the decision, either. You’ll work closely with this team for months, so trust and communication are important.
Understanding Cost
Cost is a major part of any renovation, so you should have a clear idea of what you’re paying for and when. Ask how design fees are calculated, when construction pricing is finalized, and whether the final price is fixed or cost-plus.
At Copper Sky, design fees are a fixed percent of the estimated construction cost, and we finalize construction pricing once the design is complete. The construction contract is also fixed-price, to help clients know what to expect before work begins. And if you’re financing through a bank, Copper Sky can provide the required project documentation to make the process a little easier.
Communication Matters
Good communication can make all the difference during a renovation. Make sure you know your main points of contact, how you’ll stay updated on the schedule, and how often the team will check in with you.
At Copper Sky, each client works with a Project Developer, Lead Designer, and Project Manager throughout the process. Construction schedules are easily accessible, and your Project Manager will check in weekly to keep communication open, address any concerns, and ultimately to ensure you're satisfied and are having a positive experience.
Consider the Design Experience
A strong design process should make it easier to visualize your project and feel confident in your decisions before construction begins. With an in-house design team, Copper Sky guides clients through selections and provides 3D renderings to help bring the design to life. The team selects and orders the finishes ahead of the start of construction to account for long lead times and to allow ample time for inspection of the items upon delivery. This process takes another stressful task off the homeowner’s plate.
The People Behind the Project
Once construction begins, you want to know your home and project are being well cared for. Copper Sky limits each Project Manager to no more than three active jobs so that they can stay closely involved throughout the process. The team also works with trusted, licensed, and insured subcontractors with whom they’ve built long-term relationships. Extensive site protection, daily cleanups, and HEPA air purifiers help keep the job site and the rest of your home as clean and protected as possible throughout construction.
Proud to Serve the Atlanta Community
Copper Sky Design + Remodel has been renovating homes in Atlanta for more than 20 years. Take a look at our portfolio to see how we’ve helped homeowners update their homes while keeping the character and details that make Atlanta neighborhoods feel so special.