You should hire a general contractor (GC) for your home renovation. A GC oversees the day-to-day construction, coordinates trades, manages the schedule, and keeps quality on track so the work actually gets done.
For some home renovations, consider bringing in a licensed architect. Architects handle technical design and the drawings required for your building board or Department of Buildings approvals, and many homeowners choose them for added style, detail, and management. Plan for an added cost that is sometimes estimated at about 20% of the total project budget.
If you want help with finishes, space planning, and furnishings, consider an interior designer. Designers can develop layouts and materials and, when needed, arrange for an architect to stamp drawings.
Prefer one team from start to finish? A design-build firm combines design and construction under one roof. There is overlap among services, so choose the mix that fits your scope, preferences, and budget. Knowing who does what will save time in hiring and get you enjoying your remodeled home sooner.
Here, Sweeten outlines what each renovation professional brings to the project.
