DESIGN SERVICES

A construction project, regardless of size and scope, can be a daunting undertaking. From concept to completion can take months – even years – and will require a seemingly endless number of decisions to be made. Often, the owner of the current project is either too busy to adequately monitor the progress of the project or lacks the knowledge and experience to effectively do so. When that is the case, a design consultant may be used by the owner. The responsibilities of this role can vary by the scope agreed upon with the owner. A design consultant can be an individual or a company. There are companies that specialize in representing owners during construction projects. However, a knowledgeable and experienced individual can be retained for the position as well. LivModern is pleased to offer this service. Our design expertise can help streamline your project.

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A design consultant is hired to suggest and review interior design elements, while representing the owner of a construction project. Quite often, design consultants work with architects and contractors who may be working on a project. They may assist with the initial design stage, analyzing the function of the space with the client’s goals in mind. Also ensuring that during material sourcing and selection, the installation requirements are passed along to the General Contractor. Timely procurement, coordination of materials and how the specifications and details impact installation are influential in the success of each project. A team player that will assist to ensure that all the various phases of the project are running smoothly, while mindful of the project schedule. The consultant may be called on to make important decisions if the owner is unavailable or has deferred entirely to the representative. Do not confuse this position with a project manager though. A project manager is more of a “hands-on” position whereas a consultant tends to support the owner as they manage their project. However, this role can be expanded at any time to help manage the construction.  After all, LivModern does build homes too!

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Our design consultants may step in at any stage of a construction project. Some owner’s bring in a representative at the conceptual stage of a project while others wait until construction actually begins. Once our design consultant is brought in, however, this person will act as a liaison between the architectural design team, contractors, vendors, and the owner. While onboard, the designer will meet with a client to examine the architectural drawings and understand their preferences, style, and budget constraints. Their role can increase or reduce during any point of the duration of the project.

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Common responsibilities of a design consultant or owner’s representative:

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• Meeting with Clients to assess their design needs

• Review Architectural Drawings to ensure project scope is achieved

• Work with owner and GC to develop design solutions

• Budgetary planning

• Bidding process and awarding of subcontractors

• Source and selection of materials and suppliers

• Coordination of sample materials

• Reviewing material proposals

• Negotiating and Procurement of materials

• Coordination of specification submittals

• Provide details of custom work to the appropriate subcontractor

• Assist with project related mitigation issues

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In addition, LivModern’s consultant can expand its role to include:

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• Project Management Duties

• Construction related activities, including reviewing pay applications

• Recommending or Hiring of subcontractors

• Project close-out and occupancy

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Lastly, a design consultant from LivModern will help simplify the decisions that must be made timely, while building your home. Many builders have several projects underway at one time, preventing them from being onsite daily at your project. They expect the details to almost always be “on the drawings”… We strive to put the attention to details at the forefront so that all involved have an easier road during the project.

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