design and construction coordination

The Designer Decision Checklist

Good construction depends on timely decisions.

Every project is unique. The specific decisions and timing will vary based on the scope, existing conditions, and construction requirements. But the fundamentals remain consistent. This checklist outlines the key design decisions we address throughout every project, working ahead of construction so the design is resolved, documented, and ready when each phase begins.

01

Before Demo

  • Space plan and room layouts
  • Preliminary lighting and electrical plan
  • Ceiling and architectural changes
  • Major appliance locations
  • Plumbing fixture locations
  • Preliminary cabinetry layouts
  • Flooring direction and transitions
  • Existing elements designated to remain
  • Items requiring salvage/protection
  • Walls, doors and windows: opening additions, removals or relocations
Design Goal: Establish a clear vision for the space before construction begins.
02

Before Framing

  • Niches and recessed features
  • Millwork and cabinet locations
  • Appliance selections and specfications
  • Shower dimensions and configurations
  • Plumbing fixture selections and specifications
  • Tub dimensions
  • Fireplace details
  • Built-ins and architectural details
  • Ceiling details and soffits
  • Long-lead item considerations
  • Identify drapery/window treatment requirements
  • Identify any wall finish that needs extra support
  • Locate specialty equipment
Design Goal: Translate the design into the dimensions and architectural details that will shape the finished space.
03

Before Rough-In

Electrical

  • Final lighting and electrical plans and elevations
  • Switching and dimming requirements
  • Lighting fixture selections and specifications
  • Confirm TV/data locations
  • Confirm cabinet and accent lighting
  • Confirm all low voltage lighting
  • Confirm in-wall controls and specialty electrical

Plumbing

  • Confirm plumbing fixtures and locations
  • Confirm appliance plumbing requirements
  • Plumbing plan and elevations
Design Goal: Place lighting, electrical, plumbing, and controls intentionally around how each space will look and function.
04

Before Drywall

  • Blocking for wall-mounted fixtures, finishes, and furnishings
  • Confirm drapery/window-treatment requirements
  • TV and art requirements
  • Specialty electrical
  • Confirm niches and architectural details
  • Confirm outlet locations
  • Confirm low voltage lighting locations
  • Millwork plan and elevations
  • Final walkthrough of electrical and plumbing locations
  • Finish plan: floors, slabs, tile, grout, paint
  • Specifications: floors, slabs, tile, grout, paint
  • Specifications: doors and hardware
Design Goal: Make sure the walls are prepared for everything the finished design will require.
05

Before Cabinet Fabrication

  • Confirm final cabinet finishes and details
  • Hardware selections
  • Confirm appliance specifications
  • Confirm plumbing specifications
  • Confirm sink sizes
  • Final millwork plan
  • Countertop material and edge profile
  • Slab plan
  • Under-cabinet lighting and outlet location coordination
Design Goal: Resolve cabinetry as a complete design—from function and proportions to finishes and details.
06

Before Finish Installation

  • Tile quantities confirmed
  • Plumbing trim onsite or confirmed
  • Decorative lighting onsite or confirmed
  • Cabinet hardware onsite
  • Confirm transition details
Design Goal: Create a cohesive finish palette with every material, transition, and detail considered.
07

Before the Final Layers

Construction may be nearing completion, but the design of the home isn't finished.

  • Furnishing and decor plan
  • Procurement: furniture, rugs, art and decor
  • Measure window treatments
  • Coordinate furnishing and decor installation
Design Goal: Bring the construction and furnishings together into one complete, cohesive home.

Better projects start with better coordination.

A well-designed project is also a well-prepared project. Our goal is to keep design decisions ahead of construction, provide clear information when it’s needed, and collaborate closely with the construction team from planning through installation.

We value relationships with contractors who care about thoughtful design, quality work, and a well-run project. If that sounds like the way you work, we’d love to connect.

Let's Work Together

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