A contractor builds; a designer decides what gets built. Eric explains the difference, and why bigger kitchens and whole-home projects go smoother with both on the team.
Read what Eric says Transcript
Guys, contractors are not designers. This is when you should think about bringing on a designer.
Look, our job is to build. A designer's job is to decide what we're building before the project starts.
Sure, on a simple bathroom, you might not need it. But on a larger kitchen or home, a designer can make a huge difference.
Best projects happen when a designer and a contractor work as a team. Because the more decisions that get made up front, the smoother the project will be, saving you time, stress, and money.
Contractors are not designers. It sounds obvious, but it's one of the most common mix-ups on a remodel: homeowners expect the builder to also make the design calls, and the decisions end up being made on site, mid-project, when they cost the most to change.
Two different jobs
Our job is to build: plan the work, run the trades, pull the permits and deliver what was agreed. A designer's job is to decide what we're building before the project starts: the layout, the materials, how the finishes work together.
When you need one, and when you don't
On a simple bathroom you might not need a designer. If you already know your tile, vanity and fixtures, we can build it as you picked it. On a larger kitchen or a whole home, a designer can make a huge difference, because there are far more decisions and far more ways for them to clash.
For a closer look at that call, see do you need a designer for your kitchen or bathroom remodel?
Why it goes better as a team
The best projects happen when the designer and the contractor work together. The more decisions that get made up front, the smoother the project. Fewer changes mid-build means fewer change orders, a steadier schedule and less stress.
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Questions people also ask
What's the difference between a contractor and a designer?
A contractor builds the project. A designer decides what's being built before it starts: layout, materials and finishes.
Do I need a designer for a bathroom remodel?
Often not for a simple bathroom, especially if you've already chosen your finishes. Larger kitchens and whole-home projects benefit most.
Should the designer and contractor work together?
Yes. The best projects happen when they work as a team, because decisions get made up front instead of mid-build.