THE PROCESS
Whether you want a major renovation of your home, to update a room or two, or expand your living space, Southlight Design/Build has the expertise to help you make the most of the home you have: affordably, efficiently and thoughtfully.
We understand the need to make your home work better for you and your family, and will work with you to make it more functional, comfortable and energy efficient. Southlight Design/Build knows the opportunities - and challenges - that come with older city homes!
When you choose Southlight Design/Build, you are getting an experienced professional general contractor who is focused on your project and clear about what is happening along the way. We work with your budget and timelines to help you define and achieve your vision.
Our approach is built on communication and trust with our clients. We listen to what you want and will never try to upsell you.
We love to brainstorm, and will give you advice on what is realistic, what is worth doing, and how we’ll make it happen. Our advice is tailored to meet your specific needs.
We keep talking and make recommendations to ensure we stay on time and on budget. We make sure you are prepared every step of the way.
We know our approach works: more than 90% of our projects come by word-of-mouth referrals from happy clients!
Our design-build approach is clear and seamless, from the initial design start of your project to the very end. Here’s how we typically approach our projects:
Consultation
When you contact us, Southlight Design/Build’s owner, Jeremy Hudspith will come to your home, listen to your ideas, and give you feedback on what is realistic and how he would approach it.
We will never give you a heavy sales pitch.
After the consultation with Jeremy, you will likely have questions. Give us a call to address your concerns.
You will have a clear sense of what to expect should you choose to move ahead with Southlight Design/Build.
Designing and Planning
Vision. Most of our clients have an idea of what they want but need to talk through the details, and create drawings and plans. We will work with you to develop your vision from the initial concept and numerous drafts to a final version.
Making it Happen. After 20 years of building in the Toronto area, we know the process. Keep in mind that getting the required municipal approvals and permits can be a slow process. Depending on the project, we may need municipal approvals and permits, and will need a copy of your land survey and a site plan of your property. This can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a year, so the sooner we get started the better.
With smaller projects, we have a certified designer (BCIN qualified) that can handle the process in-house, and with larger projects we are happy to set you up with one of our design associates, who will work with you to get all of the drawings, plans, permits and approvals that you may need.
Some of our clients already have drawings and floor plans. We are happy to meet with your architect or designer to review these documents, discuss options and confirm a plan of action.
Once we have the approvals and permits, we review the final design and plans together with you to confirm the budget and timelines. We will have a signed contract in place before we begin any work.
Pre-Construction
Preparing your home. For an update to a room like a bathroom, you may be able to stay in your home. We separate the space and control for dust as much as possible.
It is always faster if clients are not living in the house while construction is going on, but we understand that is not always an option.
For a full home renovation you will likely need to move out for several months.
Part of being prepared is knowing that there are always some changes to the timeline – if you change your mind about the design or the materials, or there is an unexpected event, for example.
We will work you to find the most efficient way to keep the project moving.
Preparing your neighbours. Some projects may have an impact on your neighbours, like if the project requires us to have large bins on the front yard, restrict some access, have to move landscaping, and so on.
It is always a good idea to talk to your neighbours about the length of the project and what they can expect to see. They can also help keep an eye on your home if you are away.
Making decisions early. For some of us, the fun part is doing the shopping. We always recommend starting early with making decisions and selecting the products, fixtures and finishes you want.
If you need help in making decisions, one of our design associates can help you.
We have reliable suppliers we work with regularly, or you can choose your own. You can start purchasing early, but check in with us if storage is going to be a challenge.
Construction
Getting started. As we get the work underway, we will be in constant communication. You can continue to share any concerns or ideas, and we will keep working together to help your vision comes to life.
Our licensed, insured tradespeople will be on site, coordinated to ensure the work rolls out in a logical way.
When demolition is involved, we are quick, and adhere to sustainable practices. We salvage what we can, and try to protect or keep elements that you love.
Along the way. We will provide monthly cost reports and continue to work with you to review any changes in plans that are needed. Over time, you will see your project coming together.
Wrapping up. If something has been late to arrive, or there are small tasks to complete, we always stay to complete the final touches. We also ensure all required permits and final inspections are completed before we say the project is finished. Within the first two years after completion, we are available to address small jobs that may emerge as you get settled.
