Our Process Design
PRE-DESIGN
Before we dive into the design it is important that we understand all perimeters, obstacles, or restrictions of your space which may require alignment with architects, engineers, city inspectors, condo boards, builders etc.
CONCEPT DESIGN
Based on how we understand your needs, we will develop mood boards for your approval.
SCHEMATIC DESIGN
Once we are on the right track we propose a floorplan with finishes and fixtures and image boards to show you how all the elements will work together and provide sketches of millwork and key areas such as kitchen and bathrooms. In this phase we visit showrooms and view samples.
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
Everything is fully documented through floorplans, reflected ceiling plans, floor finish plans, power and communication plans, elevations, detail drawings, specifications of all finishes, materials, and fixtures selected, and a summary of work for the project. When appropriate, we work closely with the architect to make any adjustments to the plans that may be required.
FURNITURE SELECTION and PROCUREMENT
This phase of the project is done simultaneously with the schematic design and production of construction documents so that a complete and cohesive look can be achieved throughout the design.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
During the renovation, we will help find and secure a contractor and will be in regular communication to ensure the project is being carried out to our standards. We communicate your project status with our Friday email updates. Any deficiencies are addressed and corrected. You will sign a separate contract with the contractor.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES:
STYLING AND ACCESSORISING
As interior designers, we love to see a project through to the last detail. When your project is complete, we are happy to assist in organising art, accessorising open shelves, and more.
3D VISUALIZATION
AB+ZU strives to showcase design concepts and material finishes by utilizing samples and boards and one-on-one meetings. However, 3D visualization is available and if required, an additional fee will be applied.
Our Process Design Build
At AB + ZU, we offer a comprehensive 'Design-Build' service that not only focuses on exceptional design but also on managing the construction process seamlessly. Our goal is to integrate your vision with the execution of the build, ensuring that the final result is not only aesthetically beautiful but also structurally sound and within budget.
OVERVIEW & COMMUNICATION
We believe in a streamlined and transparent process from start to finish. Our approach is rooted in continuous communication with you, providing visual guides, schedules, and regular updates. Everything from contracts to materials and invoices is shared with you through your personalized portal, ensuring you are always in the loop. With our Design-Build service, we also take full responsibility for coordinating builders and trades, ensuring that the execution matches the design vision.
OUR DESIGN-BUILD PROCESS
The first part of our process remains focused on design—understanding your vision, preferences, and goals. Once the design is approved, we seamlessly transition into managing the build. This includes selecting and coordinating trades, managing timelines, and ensuring everything is built to the highest standard.
STAGES - DESIGN-BUILD
After an initial consultation and agreement to move forward, your project will be broken down into these stages:
PRE-DESIGN & COORDINATION
The Pre-Design stage includes gathering all necessary information, conducting site surveys, and measuring spaces. If required, we’ll coordinate with architects or structural engineers. At this stage, we also begin selecting key tradespeople and suppliers.
CONCEPT DESIGN
During this stage, we present mood boards and concepts to align with your vision. We ensure all elements are carefully considered and work with your feedback before finalizing the concept. Every design element, from colors to textures, is carefully chosen and displayed on materials and finishes boards, providing a clear vision of the final space. This ensures that you are aligned with the materials, finishes, and design choices before moving forward.
SCHEMATIC DESIGN
We refine your design, integrating finishes and materials into floor plans. In collaboration with our selected contractors and trades, we ensure that your design is achievable within the budget.
PRELIMINARY DRAWINGS
These drawings will be used to finalize your budget and are sent to contractors for quoting. We ensure all details, including finishes, materials, and structural needs, are considered before the build begins.
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS & COORDINATION
In this phase, detailed construction documents are produced. These include floor plans, electrical layouts, and specifications. We also procure approved materials and start organizing the tradespeople to begin the build. Our team will coordinate the delivery and installation of all materials and finishes, ensuring everything is set for the build.
SITE MANAGEMENT & UPDATES
As the build progresses, we provide on-site management and regular updates to ensure everything is running smoothly. We coordinate tradespeople, ensuring quality control and adherence to the project timeline. You will receive weekly updates and photos, keeping you informed every step of the way.
COMPLETION & REVEAL
After the construction phase, we ensure everything is installed to perfection, from furniture to final styling. We will walk you through your newly designed and built space, ensuring it meets all your expectations.
BILLING
For our 'Design-Build' service, we charge 20% of the overall project cost. This fee covers both the design and the comprehensive management of the build, including the coordination of trades and suppliers. Throughout the project, we aim to keep the project within budget, and we implement a contingency plan to address unexpected costs. We act as the single point of contact for all trades and contractors, ensuring quality control, staying within budget, and addressing any issues that arise during construction. This approach saves time and money in the long run by preventing costly mistakes and delays.
ASSUMPTION COSTS / MAIN FLOOR Updated
Notes ..
Millwork Budget
The millwork budget includes everything required for the mudroom and powder room as well.
Powder Room
The plumbing budget includes: fixtures , and materials
Labourwould require removing and reinstalling the toilet, sink, and other fixtures. Putting in the new etc
However, we can defer the powder room and mudroom to a later phase if desired.
These costs could increase slightly if broken into multiple phases
Doing all the tiles and ground floor millwork at once would lead to significant cost savings for site preparation, bin rental, and demolition.
Tile Budget
The tile budget covers the mudroom, powder room, and front entry area.
Labour
Jake’s weekly rate of $2,400 is estimated for 8 weeks, including the fireplace.
Removing the rear area (powder room and mudroom) might reduce this timeline.
The secondary laborer is an assumed contingency cost, not a certainty.
Furniture Budget (Rough Estimates):
Sectional: $20,000
Coffee Table: $2,000
Dining Table: $6,000
Dining Chairs: $500 each
Desk: $2,000
Bar: $2,000
Sofa Seating: $3,000
Counter Stools: $2,000
Overall Cost Estimate
Ground floor, including the mudroom, powder room, and furnishings : (Low) $76K
plus our 20% fee (covers design and project management and sharing trade pricing).
Excluding the powder room and mudroom would reduce the cost by approximately $10,000–$12,000 maybe higher , but we’d need confirmation from the trades to be certain.
Second-Floor Millwork
We don’t recommend starting the second-floor millwork at this stage due to the high inconvenience.
It would generate significant dust, and the disruption would likely displace everyone.
Main Floor Phase breakdown : To breakdown project in smaller more manageable phases.
Phase 1 - Front Area
$2600 Tiles
$2000 Tile labour
$7000 Cabinets
$5000- $7000 Labour
$500 - $1000 Construction Material
Low $17, 100
+ 20 % Design and management
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Phase 2 - Lighting
$3200 Lighting Supply
$3000 Lighting Labour
$300 Paint
$2400 Labour
Low $ 8900
+ 20 % Design and management
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Phase 3 - Flooring Refinishing
$2000 Flooring Labour
$500 Trim
$200 Paint
$2400 General Labour
Low $5100
+ 20 % Design and management