Our Process & Pricing
At FiveTen Construction & Design, we specialize in providing a design-driven contracting on the North Shore. Whether you're dreaming of a finished basement renovation, seeking expert residential interior design services, or exploring a design-build alternative, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Our streamlined process combines professional construction design with personalized interior design expertise, ensuring your project is efficient, enjoyable, and tailored to your unique vision.
Step 1: A Quick Chat
Once you submit the contact form, I'll be in touch to schedule a quick 10-minute call. This helps us make sure we're a good fit for each other before scheduling an on-site consultation. It also allows me to gather some initial information and answer any questions you might have, so we can use our consultation time efficiently.
Step 2: An On-site Consultation
In this 1-hour consultation, we’ll explore the potential of your space, discuss options that fit your ideal budget, explore layouts, and brainstorm design ideas. We’ll also go over your requirements and any “nice-to-haves” you’d like to incorporate. Plus, I’ll take measurements for use in the design phase.
COST: $250 (This fee is credited toward Step 3: Design and Planning if you decide to move forward.)
Step 3: The Construction & Design Plan
Now we start turning your vision into a reality:
I will create 3 layout options, plus 3D renderings to help you visualize each one.
We’ll review them together to see what you love and what you’d like to tweak.
I’ll take your feedback, refine the plan, and finalize the blueprint. (If you want more options or changes, we can do that too—just keep in mind, there may be a small extra cost).
During this phase we’ll also dive into high-level material selections. For example, we’ll pick out general flooring types (e.g., tile flooring) but we’ll leave the exact details (like the specific tile) for later. Same with cabinet layouts—we’ll create the rough layout but the exact configuration will come down the road. Each of these items allows for accurate estimating, without getting into the fine design details.
COST: Starting at $1,750 (This fee is credited if you decide to move forward with us as your general contractor on projects $30k or more).
Step 4: An Accurate Project Estimate
At this point, your design plan will include all the critical details and measurements needed to provide an accurate and transparent estimate.
Unlike other contractors who throw out a lump sum price, I break everything down into clear, line-item details by trade (framing, electrical, plastering, etc.). This gives should give you the clarity and a full picture of where your budget is going.
Here’s what else you can expect:
“Who’s Supplying What”: I’ll make it clear whether you’re providing specific items (like tile, thresholds or doorknobs) or if they’re included in my pricing.
Realistic Allowances: Some contractors use lowball allowances to win bids, only to surprise you later with added costs. That’s not my style. I include realistic, mid-range allowances for finishes and fixtures. I prefer to give you an unexpected credit, rather than you sweat over an added and unexpected cost.
Detailed Specs: I specify the exact materials we’ll use—like “solid core doors” instead of just saying “doors.”
This level of detail helps you make informed decisions and ensures we’re on the same page from day one
Additional Add-Ons or Extra Services
Once you’ve received your customized plan and detailed project estimate, you have the option to enhance your experience with our additional design services, including:
Material Selection: I can help you choose the perfect finishes and materials that align with your vision and budget.
Material Procurement: Simplify your project. I can help you source, order and manage the deliveries of materials to ensure everything arrives on time and as expected.
Mood Boards: Curated mood boards to help guide your selections.
Design Consultations: Bounce ideas off me, refine your selections, and gain clarity with one-on-one design support.
These optional services are designed to ensure a seamless, stress-free process, with every detail thoughtfully curated to bring your vision to life.
COST: $125/hr (or fixed-price where applicable)
Take the First Step
Fill out our questionnaire so we can start to understand your goals for your space and how you’d like for it to function in your daily life. By sharing your vision and preferences, we can explore the best possibilities to optimize functionality while creating a space that’s as beautiful as it is practical. Let’s work together to design something truly amazing!