We're committed to being one of San Diego's best contractors. Whether your needs are for a partial or full remodel, or new construction in the greater San Diego area, our process and company size assures you that you'll have our complete attention, dedication, and responsiveness throughout your remodel or new construction process. From our very first conversations about your project's design, to the day we hand you the key to your completed project, we strive to exceed your expectations as we provide architect, design and construction services.
Timing varies by job complexity and individual city permitting processes but in most cases we project 4-6 months. This includes all architectural design phases, cost estimating, and permit application. Yes we do, both the design consultants' submissions and the various municipal discretionary reviews related to permit approval; CA T-24 energy calculations, coastal commission, public hearings if required. Over the years we have developed a variety of approaches depending on the needs, interests, and time availability of the individual clients to help smooth the process and minimize client stress and anxiety with selections and timely procurement.
In brief, the term "design-build" describes a scenario where someone is responsible for both the design and construction of a project. When design is a separate process from the construction, the owner must, by the nature of the arrangement, become the intermediary between the architect and the contractor. When a construction problem occurs, who's at fault? Design-build eliminates this difficulty, since there is a single source of accountability for the entire project. We focus on budget during the design phase (not waiting until the bids come in).
Whether you are remodeling a kitchen, adding a guest house or ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), completing a home addition or remodel, or designing and building a new home, our design/build process is unique. It has been refined over 30 years to provide a positive experience for you. From the earliest discussions of design to cost estimating, architect plans & permitting, and construction, we make it easy for you. We begin by listening closely to your needs, desires, and budget goals, and offer our suggestions and recommendations based on our years of experience.
It’s a rainy day here in San Diego, which has us thinking, where is your favorite place to be inside your home on a rainy day? If I was the owner of this La Jolla home, it would be right here. . . .
Take a look at this week’s featured backyard! The custom stone pool matched with the foliage brings peace and serenity to this home. What’s your favorite part of this tropical backyard?
Time for a Q&A! At SM-DesignBuild, we get a lot of questions from potential clients that help them come to a decision about working with us. We wanted to take the time to answer one of the most common questions that we receive, what is the timeline for a design phase? Timing varies by job complexity...
Have you ever wondered how an architecture firm takes a design from a concept through complete execution? Check out this model for the castle project we are using to help us better visualize volumes and details through the construction. We will continue to post updates on this unique project. . . . ...
A little behind the scenes action! Here we are doing an outdoor conference while working on the castle project in San Diego. A pandemic isn’t going to stop us from bringing our client’s dreams to life!