3 Questions to Ask a Potential Design/Build Firm for Your Custom Outdoor Space

Creating a custom outdoor living space requires more than just some basic tools and a rough outline. Building your dream backyard is a meticulous process that demands careful planning, skilled craftsmanship, and a creative touch. From the initial design phase to the final installation, the journey to your dream backyard can take time. That’s why it’s crucial to research and find a reputable partner who can transform your vision into a reality without pressure, stress, or hassle.

So, to ensure you’re making an informed decision, here are three essential questions to ask a potential partner before committing to any contracts for your custom outdoor living space:

• What is Your Process?

Understanding how your project will be designed and built is paramount to the success of your outdoor living space project. A reputable partner will have a well-defined and proven process that encompasses every stage from initial planning to completion so you are never concerned about who will handle each step of the process. So, inquire about any contractors’ approach to determining what can be built, how designs will be developed and shared, who will be responsible for permit acquisition, what the construction process looks like, and what post-installation support will be provided. This will help you determine how much of your time and involvement the process will take before you commit to any contracts in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

An effective process should involve collaborative discussions to grasp your vision, detailed design plans that align with your preferences, and a clear timeline for construction. We find an essential part of the design/build process is spearheading the township research of your property very early on in the process. This ensures a smooth journey from design through the permitting process and necessary approvals so there is no wasted time or money on design revisions or change orders.

What you need to know before submitting for Permits →

• Can You Provide Examples of Your Previous Work and Client References?

A picture is worth a thousand words, and when it comes to choosing a design/build firm, visual evidence of their capabilities should be non-negotiable. So make sure you ask for a portfolio showcasing their previous custom outdoor projects, specifically those that align with the vision you have for your custom outdoor living space. It is also helpful to speak with previous clients and/or preview video testimonials from previous clients. This provides insights into their design aesthetic, attention to detail, and the range of projects they’ve successfully completed.

Before you commit to any partner, inquire about the communication process, adherence to timelines, and overall satisfaction with the finished projects in their portfolio so you can make sure that their project management process aligns with your expectations. A reputable design/build firm will be more than willing to share their success stories and client references without hesitation so that their work can speak for itself. This important step ensures that you’re entrusting your project to skilled professionals and a team with a proven track record of client satisfaction.

The Essential Checklist for Designing Your Outdoor Living Space: 4 Questions You Absolutely Need to Ask → 

• How Do You Handle Unexpected Challenges During Construction?

No matter how well-planned a project is, unexpected challenges can arise during the construction phase. So, it’s crucial to inquire about how your partner and their team members will handle unforeseen issues and how they communicate when adjustments are necessary. We find that a clear plan and vision combined with a flexible and solution-oriented team is vital for overcoming challenges without compromising the quality of the final result.

Before committing to a partner, ask about their experience in handling issues such as adverse weather conditions, permitting complications, HOA pushback, or unexpected site conditions. Understanding their problem-solving capabilities and proactive communication strategies ensures that you’re partnering with a firm that can navigate challenges with professionalism and expertise. At MasterPLAN, we find that one point of contact throughout your entire project eliminates communication issues, errors, and confusion.  This is why we eliminate any stress or frustration with our first-class project management tools, and your very own personal Project Concierge. Your personal Project Concierge will handle all communication with your township or municipality, developing your plans, obtaining your building permits, managing any and all engineering, scheduling your inspections, and more!

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Investing time in finding the right design and build partner is a crucial step towards turning your outdoor living space dreams into reality. By asking these essential questions, you gain insights into the firm’s process, capabilities, and commitment to client satisfaction. So, there is one question left to ask…Are you ready to start creating and building your very own outdoor living space in the Lehigh Valley?

Click here to schedule your Design Meeting! 

If you’re interested in creating a new outdoor kitchen in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to enjoy meals outdoors this summer, renovating your existing inground swimming pool in Allentown, Pennsylvania for your grandkids’ enjoyment, or building a custom outdoor living space in Easton, Pennsylvania that will make lasting memories, then you’ve come to the right place. That’s because we understand the value of your investment and want to make the entire process as hassle-free as possible. That’s why we’re proud to partner with homeowners in the Lehigh Valley area to simplify the transformation of their backyard into a personalized outdoor living space that adds value to their home.

With our award-winning design/build process, our team of experienced professionals takes care of everything from engineering and project management to contractor scheduling, permit applications, and inspections for your custom outdoor living space so you won’t ever need to worry about communicating with your HOA or township either.

Getting started is easy. Click here to schedule your discovery call with your own Project Concierge!

For a limited time, download your very own copy of “2024 Design Secrets“. This valuable resource will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision and ensure that your investment is well-placed. So why wait? Begin turning your dream into a reality today with this helpful guide!