What is design/build?

It means that the designer, builder and client are working hand-in-hand to ensure that the project is one everyone can be proud of. It also means that we don’t start a project with sledgehammers; we start projects with design. Any price that isn’t accompanied by a complete selections list and construction drawings is just a guess. Most of our industry builds the wrong way, this is why so many people have mediocre (at best) remodeling experiences.

How do I know what to budget for my project?

First, contact us and we’ll be happy to discuss a realistic price range for your project in our initial consultation. We also recommend starting with Remodeling’s, “Cost vs Value Report”. Remodeling Magazine collects market data on what customers actually paid for their remodeling projects so that you can make a fact based decision. Most other resources to determine cost (Home Advisor, HGTV, Googling it, etc.) are not accurate.

Do you give free estimates?

Our process starts with a design contract base on a budget range. During design we advise our clients on the scope and selections to ensure that they stay on budget. Once selections and construction drawings are complete we prepare a fixed price estimate so our clients will know what their project will cost. This is all done before a hammer is ever swung.

Are you insured?

Yes, we carry a general liability policy.

Are you licensed?

The state of Texas does not license general contractors. We are, however members of both NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) and the NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association). Our electrician, plumber and HVAC subs are all licensed through the state of Texas as required by law.

What design style do you specialize in?

We don’t specialize in any style because our clients have a variety of tastes and we love that! If you look through our gallery you will see a variety of styles; farmhouse, transitional, contemporary, traditional etc. Our goal to ensure our clients have a space that’s functional, bold and timeless…but trendy is fun from time to time too!

How soon can you start my project? We want this done yesterday.

We believe that starting quickly and without proper planning is one of the reasons our industry is so problematic. For most kitchens and bathroom projects $50-200K, construction should start no sooner than 2-3 months after you sign your design contract. For larger projects with a broader scopes it can take longer. We can discuss timeframes further during out consultation.

Do you flip homes or work with flippers?

Our services are most valuable to people who want to live in and love their home. We’ve found that our business model and philosophy aren’t congruent with most flippers. GR&D’s goals are creating beauty, quality and a great client experience. Flippers generally view the home as a commodity and decisions revolve around ROI (Return On Investment).

What’s the deal with HGTV?

Most people have realized the timeframes and budgets set forth on HGTV are totally unrealistic. However, the “design on the fly” method that we often see on HGTV is beyond crazy. Our goal is to have every possible detail figured out during design, before a hammer is ever swung. If we stood in demoed kitchens and said, “Hmm…what would work for this room?” then remodeling would cost three times as much, take three times as long and make a process that is already challenging, utterly unbearable.