1. What are the advantages of working with Fine Lines Construction/Harborside Design?
As a company with nearly 25 years of experience in both the design and construction of residential buildings, we bring a great deal of efficiency and expertise to our clients. Our designers, builders and clients work together as a team to produce a successful project. We can develop and analyze designs, confirming the cost and feasibility of any idea quickly and efficiently.
Our team of designers and builders has grown steadily throughout the years and is comprised of a talented, dedicated and stable group of employees offering expertise at all levels of the process. And as the design and building process becomes more technologically complex, our team is constantly evaluating new methods, materials and techniques to ensure quality and efficiency.
Additionally, we enjoy close working relationships with professionals in structural engineering, building science, landscape and interior design, which help further strengthen the value of service and support we bring to each project.
2. How does the design-build process work?
With our design-build relationship, the designers and builders are at the table with the homeowners from the beginning, discussing the project parameters and developing preliminary budgets. So the homeowner knows, from the start, what’s realistic from both the design and the building perspective. The process is seamless and transparent with all parties communicating openly at all times and a consistent and dedicated team that is committed to and responsible for each project from beginning to end.
3. How long does the process take?
The length of a project depends largely on its size (for example, a room addition or renovation project will take less time than a complete home construction), but it also depends on the homeowner’s wishes. Once we start the design work, maintaining momentum throughout the process benefits our clients and produces the best results. That said, our ability to be flexible and responsive allows homeowners to set the pace and define project goals and expectations.
4. How much will the design cost?
Because we bill by the hour and at the direction of the homeowner, the cost of design services is directly related to the size and complexity of the project. We rarely see fees over 8% of total cost of construction. There are times when initial schematics indicate that a project will be over budget, but if we are able to evaluate this early in the process, we may be able to save the client time and money moving forward.
5. Can I hire my own architect and still hire you to do the construction?
Yes, although we provide our own design services through Harborside Design, we also frequently work with other architects and designers, and we would be happy to look at your project regardless of where the design originated. Our interests always remain the same, to produce the best possible project results through an open and cooperative relationship with our clients.
6. When is the right time to contact you about my project?
Earlier is better. If you are looking to buy an existing property and you want to know if a lot can be developed or a home can be remodeled to fit your needs, contact us before you sign a purchase and sale agreement. For any project we will do a site visit to evaluate feasibility, discuss budgets, learn about your ideas and share some of our own. These initial visits are always done at no charge, so there’s no risk or obligation. Call us.
7. Who will be my day-to-day contact person throughout the design and building process?
Our team approach assures that you will be able to work with not just one contact but a group of professionals that is very knowledgeable about your project. You will always have prompt, direct access to our team and continuity throughout the process.
8. Will you work on any size project, even a small one?
Yes. We do almost any size project. We schedule smaller projects in and around larger ones. Larger remodeling projects have always been central to our business, but our typical project range extends from room remodeling to new home construction and also includes historic preservations and restorations. We like old houses.
9. How does the billing process work for construction?
Once the initial project scope and direction is established, a budget is developed and a contract is signed. This defines our business relationship, roles and responsibilities. Clients are invoiced monthly, and with each invoice clients also receive an updated budget showing completed and forecasted work against their budget.
We bill using the “cost plus” method, which means all costs related to the project are billed through to the client plus a markup percentage. With this transparent reporting process our clients are informed and in control of costs and decision making each step of the way. We enjoy preferred pricing with many of our suppliers and subcontractors, and these savings are passed along directly to our clients.
10. What is your philosophy regarding green building?
We promote green building in accordance with our clients’ interests and budget. On all projects we strive to be responsible in the use of materials and in waste disposal.
11. What if I have specific needs or wants for materials in my home?
We believe in being flexible and working with homeowners to achieve their goals. Toward that end, we are happy to research material sources, develop cost and lead time parameters and provide you with the information and recommendations you need to make the best decision regarding materials for your home.
12. What is your policy regarding follow up service?
We are committed to providing exceptional service to our clients before, during, and after a project is completed. Our long-term relationships with our clients are important to us, so whenever there is a problem or concern, we are happy to evaluate the situation and do our best to make it right.
13. What is your geographic range for design and construction projects?
We’ll do design projects for anyone. In fact, we recently designed a new kitchen for a homeowner in Washington State. But our construction range is typically within a 50-mile radius of our headquarters in Freeport, Maine.