What To Expect: Design Development Process

Kimball Construction’s design development process ensures seamless collaboration and precision to bring your project vision to life. By focusing on client goals and innovative solutions, we create designs tailored to your unique needs. Here’s an in-depth look at how we guide you through the essential steps of design development before transitioning to construction.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Vision Exploration

The first step focuses on understanding your unique goals and project requirements. This is where your vision takes shape.

Key Objectives:

• Define the project’s purpose (residential, commercial, or industrial).
• Gather details on design preferences, functionality, and aesthetic goals.
• Address any site-specific challenges, zoning requirements, or environmental concerns.

Deliverables:

• A clear understanding of project feasibility.
• Recommendations for site surveys, environmental studies, or zoning reviews.
• A design brief detailing project goals and potential challenges.

Step 2: Signing a Design Development Contract

Once your vision is clear, we formalize the partnership by signing a design development contract. This agreement ensures transparency and sets expectations.

What’s Included in the Contract:

• A detailed outline of our services during the design development phase.
• Cost estimates for design development, including architectural plans, renderings, and related activities.
• A timeline for completing the design phase and delivering the finalized package.

Why It Matters:

• Establishes a clear commitment and accountability between both parties.
• Provides a structured framework for collaboration and decision-making.
• Ensures transparency in costs, deliverables, and timelines.

Step 3: Concept Development and Refinement

With the contract in place, we move into transforming your vision into actionable designs. This phase focuses on creating visual representations and refining concepts to align with your goals.

Key Activities:

• Developing initial sketches, 2D layouts, and 3D renderings.
• Conducting site visits to assess infrastructure, topography, and spatial conditions.
• Collaborating with architects, engineers, and designers to finalize concepts.

Deliverables:

• Preliminary blueprints and detailed 3D renderings.
• Cost estimates tailored to the design’s scope and materials.
• A proposed timeline for transitioning to construction.

Next Steps: Transitioning to Construction

At the end of the design development phase, you’ll have a comprehensive and polished design package. From here, you can choose to proceed with construction, either with Kimball Construction or another contractor.

If You Choose to Move Forward with Us:

• We’ll prepare a construction proposal based on the approved design.
• Our team will handle permitting, pre-construction planning, and scheduling.
• The same seamless collaboration and transparency will continue throughout the build.

Your Takeaway:

• A finalized design package, including architectural drawings and specifications.
• Confidence in the feasibility, functionality, and aesthetics of your project.
• Flexibility to proceed with construction immediately or at a later date.

At Kimball Construction, we pride ourselves on building trust and delivering quality at every stage of the design process. Whether you’re ready to transition into construction or pause after the design phase, we ensure you have everything needed to succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Design Development

1. Why is a design development contract necessary?
The contract formalizes the scope of work, timelines, and costs for the design phase, ensuring clear expectations and accountability.

2. Can I use the design package with another construction team?
Yes, the final design package is yours to use with any contractor. However, these plans will not be suitable for obtaining a permit or use during construction. Refer to your contract for more information.

3. How long does the design development phase take?
Typically, the design phase takes 2–4 weeks, depending on the project’s complexity.

4. What happens if I want changes after the design is finalized?
We’re happy to revisit and refine the design at any point to align with your evolving vision. There may be additional costs, though.

5. Are design development costs separate from construction costs?
Yes, design development costs are outlined separately in the contract. This ensures transparency and flexibility for your project. However, if you do hire Kimball Construction, we will credit the cost of the design development costs towards the cost of construction.

6. How do I transition to construction after the design phase?
Simply let us know! We’ll provide a detailed construction proposal and guide you through the process.

Kimball Construction: Your Trusted Design Partner

Our design development process is built to empower you, providing a comprehensive framework for your project’s success. From consultation to final designs, we ensure your vision is reflected in every detail. Whether you choose to build with us or another contractor, we’re here to support you every step of the way.