Why a Contractor's Remodeling Process Matters

A homeowner's remodeling experience—positive or negative—can almost always be traced back to the process used to plan and execute their remodel.

If you value a low-stress remodeling experience, start by choosing a contractor whose process maximizes up-front planning and minimizes unpleasant surprises.

McLennan's process is based on the Design-Build method of project delivery, which is proven to provide the smoothest, most efficient and rewarding experience for client and contractor alike.

Below is a walk-through of our award-winning remodeling process.

Our process kicks off with Discovery, which starts with a brief phone call to discuss your vision and make sure we're a good fit for each other.

Then we'll get together for an in-home consultation to talk through your project's scope, budget, and timeline.

This gives us all a chance to connect and dig into the driving needs behind your project. We'll also evaluate your existing space and gather the information needed to provide a proposal and action plan for moving forward.

Project Development is at the heart of delivering a great remodeling experience! This is where we take your project from concept to comprehensive plan, and lay the groundwork for a smooth Production phase.

Your designated Project Developer will systematically walk you through the details of your remodel, from layout to paint color, always keeping in mind your target budget, timeline, and end goals for the space.

This is an engaging, interactive process that ensures your expectations are heard, understood, and translated into accurate, complete construction documents.

When all the project details are defined, your Project Developer will walk you through the finalized renderings, scope of work and specifications, and total investment to make sure you're ready to sign your Build Approval.

Our Production team's goal is to keep you fully informed and complete your project efficiently and with excellence, while minimizing disruption to your routine.

Pre-Production

During Pre-Production we’ll obtain permits, order materials, and build a detailed schedule for our crew, trade partners—most importantly—for you. We'll also provide a payment schedule for your review and approval.

Internally, your Project Developer and the Lead Carpenter assigned to your project will meet to review your scope of work in detail. They'll also conduct an on-site walk-through of your project to ensure the information handoff is complete.

Production

As your project moves into active production, your Lead Carpenter will manage the process of bringing your remodeling vision to life! Our Production team will keep you informed about progress and schedule details, so you always know what to expect.

Throughout Production, our cloud-based project management software will allow you to communicate directly with our entire team, and view details about your project’s schedule.

Few things are as rewarding as seeing a client thoroughly satisfied with their new space. We have traveled alongside you from Discovery to Project Development to Production, and now it's time to appreciate the fact that a dream has become reality!

To make sure you're ready for move-in, we'll provide professional cleaning services that leave your space fresh and ready to enjoy. We'll also schedule your 6-month and 12-month Quality of Craftmanship warranty visits, to give you peace of mind that your project was built to last.

And as a McLennan client, you'll now have priority status for any additional projects, maintenance work, or handyman services you might need down the road.

This project might be finished, but we hope your relationship with McLennan is just beginning!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Design-Build process?

The design-build process is a streamlined approach to remodeling where one team handles both the design and construction of your project from start to finish. This means that instead of working with separate designers, contractors, and trade partners, you have a single, cohesive team managing every aspect of your remodel.

Here’s how it works:

Collaboration from Day One: Our team works together from the start, ensuring that your vision is fully understood and achievable within your budget.
Simplified Communication: You’ll have a dedicated point of contact throughout the process, eliminating the stress of juggling multiple contractors or conflicting schedules.
Efficient Planning: Because the design and construction are managed under one roof, we can identify potential challenges early and develop solutions before they impact your timeline or budget.
Seamless Execution: Once the design is finalized, our construction team takes over, ensuring that the project aligns perfectly with the plans and your expectations.

What are the benefits of the Design-Build process?

The design-build process offers a streamlined and stress-free approach to remodeling by combining design and construction into a single, cohesive experience.

Here are some of the key benefits:

Simplified Communication: With one team managing both design and construction, you have a single point of contact. This eliminates miscommunication, reduces delays, and ensures everyone is working toward the same goal.
Cost Control: The collaboration between design and construction minimizes unexpected expenses and keeps your project on track financially.
Accountability: A single team is responsible for every detail, giving you a stress-free experience and peace of mind.
Holistic Approach: Design-build ensures that the vision for your space, the materials selected, and the construction plans all align perfectly. This leads to a more cohesive and high-quality end result.

What is the Project Development phase, and why is it important?

The Project Development phase is the backbone of our design-build process. It’s where we take your ideas and turn them into a fully realized plan that aligns with your goals, budget, and timeline. This phase bridges the gap between concept and construction, ensuring that every detail is accounted for before the work begins.

During Project Development, we collaborate with you to create detailed design concepts, including floor plans, 3D renderings, and material selections. This is also when we refine the project scope and provide a more accurate budget based on your decisions. By exploring various options and narrowing in on what works best for you, we create a roadmap that eliminates uncertainty and sets clear expectations for the construction phase.

This phase is crucial because it minimizes surprises and ensures that everyone—our team, our trade partners, and you—is fully aligned before construction starts. Without thorough planning, projects can run into costly delays, unexpected changes, or miscommunications. By investing time in Project Development, we ensure a smoother, more predictable construction process that delivers the results you’re looking for.

Do all projects need to go through the design phase?

At its most basic definition, design means figuring out the details of a project. In that sense, every remodeling project needs some level of design. The question is, will the design happen at the beginning—before construction—or will it happen throughout the project.

Starting into the construction of a project without nailing down the details can add stress and frustration to the remodeling process. That’s why we work through the project details at the beginning. We want your remodel to be as smooth, efficient, and low-stress as possible.

Even though all projects need some level of design, the length of the design phase varies depending on the complexity of the project. Obviously a simple kitchen refresh will have fewer details to nail down than a whole home remodel, but the scope of the project isn’t the only factor. The design timeline is also impacted by the homeowner’s decision-making style. Some homeowners like to take their time exploring options, while others are quick to check decisions off their list. Our goal is to help guide you through the decision-making process with momentum, so the finished product is exactly what you hoped for.

How long does the remodeling process typically take?

The length of the remodeling process depends on the size, scope, and complexity of your project.

To give you a clearer idea, here’s an overview of how the timeline typically unfolds:

Discovery Phase: This initial stage, where we explore your goals, budget, and vision, usually takes several days.

Project Development: This phase involves creating designs, finalizing materials, and refining the budget. It can take anywhere from 4-8 weeks or longer, depending on the complexity of the design and how quickly decisions are made.

Production: Once everything is planned, the production phase begins. On average a production timeline can look like this:
- Bathroom Remodel: 4-6+ weeks
- Kitchen Remodel: 6-10+ weeks
- Basement Remodel: 4-8+ weeks

It’s important to note that every project is unique, and unforeseen factors like permitting delays or material lead times can impact the overall timeline. That’s why we emphasize clear communication and careful planning from the start. By addressing potential challenges early, we minimize delays and keep your project on track.

Our goal is to ensure that your remodel is completed efficiently and to the highest standards, so you can start enjoying your new space as soon as possible.

How is Design-Build different from other project delivery methods?

Design-build stands out from traditional project delivery methods by combining design and construction into a seamless, integrated process. Unlike the design-bid-build method, where homeowners hire a designer and contractor separately, design-build offers the convenience of a single team managing every aspect of your remodel. This eliminates the need for you to act as a go-between, relaying information between multiple parties. Instead, you’ll work with one cohesive team that ensures everyone is aligned on your vision from the very beginning.

One of the key differences is how budgeting and planning are handled. In traditional methods, the design is often completed before costs are fully considered, which can result in unpleasant surprises or expensive revisions. With design-build, the design and budget are developed together, giving you clear cost transparency upfront and allowing you to make informed decisions without delays or unnecessary adjustments.

Overall, the design-build process simplifies communication, aligns the team, and delivers a cohesive, high-quality result. It’s a method designed to take the stress and uncertainty out of remodeling, giving you confidence from concept to completion.

What are the stages of your process?

Our process is divided into three key stages: the Discovery Phase, Project Development, and Construction. Each stage plays an essential role in ensuring clarity, precision, and the ultimate success of your remodel.

The Discovery Phase is where it all begins. During this stage, we get to know you, your home, and your goals. Through conversations and an on-site consultation, we explore your vision, identify challenges, and discuss your budget and timeline. This phase helps us determine whether we’re the right fit for your project and sets the foundation for a successful collaboration.

Next is the Project Development phase, which is the heart of the design-build process. Here, we bring your vision to life by creating detailed design concepts, including floor plans, 3D renderings, and material selections. During this phase, we also refine your project scope and budget, ensuring that every decision aligns with your goals and priorities. This stage is where we iron out the details, so by the time we’re ready to move forward, you’ll have a clear and accurate plan for your remodel.

Finally, the Production phase is where your plans take shape. With everything finalized during Project Development, our skilled team of craftsmen and trade partners works to transform your home with precision and care. Throughout this phase, we prioritize communication, keeping you updated on progress and addressing any questions or concerns. Your dedicated project manager ensures the project stays on track, while our team focuses on delivering high-quality results that exceed your expectations.

Can I live in my home during the remodel?

In most cases, homeowners choose to stay in their homes during a remodel. There are ways to create temporary solutions to make the process as manageable as possible. For example, we can help set up a temporary kitchen or plan the work to minimize disruption to essential areas.

However, for larger projects or those involving multiple key areas of the home, some homeowners decide it’s more comfortable to move out temporarily.

Whether you choose to stay or relocate, we’ll work with you to accommodate your decision and ensure the remodeling process is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Communication is key, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way so you always know what to expect.

What happens if something unexpected is discovered during construction?

Unexpected findings, like hidden damage or outdated wiring, are common in remodeling. While we take every precaution to anticipate potential issues, some conditions can only be revealed once walls are opened up.

If this happens, we’ll communicate with you immediately, provide solutions, and update your budget and timeline accordingly. Our goal is to address surprises transparently and with minimal disruption.

Do you have predefined selections we have to pick from, or can we choose what we want?

One of the strengths of the Design-Build model is that it allows us to customize product selections to your style.

Every person's vibe is unique, and our goal is to make sure your project is a reflection of you. So instead of having predefined selections, we help you select items that fit the vision and cost range you’re looking for. This approach gives you freedom to pursue any style you choose, and make intentional choices about your project budget.