Design

Our Design-Build Process Near Fulton, Ellicott City, Columbia

Starcom Design/Build has the right system to handle your remodeling needs

Update your home. Make your home feel brand new with modern appliances and a custom design.

At Starcom Design/Build, we are proud to be Greater Columbia's trusted home improvement and home remodeling contractor. We have 40 years of experience in the industry, and the process that we've used to help thousand of satisfied customers can help you too!

We understand that hiring a firm to complete a home improvement construction and design project is a huge and highly personal undertaking, and we promise to make it as easy and pain-free for you as possible. Call us today at 1-410-997-7700 or click below to start your home remodeling project with a free estimate!

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Design Journey

It's hard to believe it's been 40 years since we began! When we started, Design Build was experiencing a real resurgence. The idea of the "master builder" goes back thousands of years, when one person or team handled everything from concept to completion. Over time, that evolved into a much more siloed approach, where design and construction were disconnected.

When I launched the company, I noticed how often designs were created but never built. I wanted to change that. Starting with a clear budget felt essential and it ensured the design work was meaningful and attainable. I also appreciated the concept of one-point accountability and was ready to take on that responsibility.

Fast forward to today: our process continues to evolve. Design has many layers-quick pencil sketches, detailed construction drawings, exterior and interior color renderings, and specific plans for kitchens, baths, and custom closets. Building a new home or renovating an existing one is a major investment, and giving clients a clear vision from the start is a crucial part of every successful project.

Our journey with each client begins with a phone call to understand their goals. Depending on the project, that conversation usually lasts around 20 minutes. If we feel we're a good fit, we schedule an onsite meeting. A clientprovided survey showing property lines, the home's location, and building restriction lines (BRLs) is incredibly helpful. I'm often surprised by how many homeowners never receive this document from the seller. Whether or not you need a mortgage, having a clear visual of your property is invaluable.

Remodels don't always involve expanding the home, and interestingly, counties often still require a survey. Some remodels don't require permits at all. Sketches and photos from clients are always welcome-they help us understand the vision much more quickly.

During the first onsite visit, we review many existing conditions: grading, prior interior renovations, utilities (water heaters, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical service), as well as framing and foundation conditions. But the most important part of this meeting is listening. We want to understand where you want the design to go. At this point, we usually schedule the next meeting at our design center-typically 5-10 business days later-giving us time to research products, develop ideas, and prepare a preliminary budget.

The second meeting-what we often call "information download day"-covers a lot. We start by walking through product displays so you can see and feel different options. In our conference room, we review initial sketches or CAD drawings, a 4-6 page scope of work, and a realistic budget. Providing accurate budgets is a point of pride for us, especially since it's something the industry often struggles with. When the plans are complete, we're typically within 2-4% of that initial estimate.

If everything looks good, the next step is signing the design agreement and collecting a deposit of $5,000-$10,000, depending on the project. This isn't an extra cost-it's included in the overall budget.

Design development usually takes 4-6 weeks. During this time, we also guide you through product selections, with meetings held both onsite and at our design center. Our process for selections is methodical and organized, helping clients avoid the stress and overwhelm that often accompany these decisions.

~ Robert Weickgenannt

Before & After Photos

What we can do for you

Let our gifted project managers handle every aspect of your home improvement project for you from start to finish, including:

Feasibility studies: Will your idea work in your home? Will the county approve the project? Let us take care of the details to make sure your project is... PERFECT.
Architectural design: We can bring your idea to life and work with you on any changes to ensure the remodel/addition we create is to your EXACT specifications.
Project management: Each project we handle features a dedicated project manager who will see it through to completion. Work is performed daily and to our highest standard, and if any problems ever arise, the project manager will design a plan of action to keep the project flowing smoothly.
Construction: From the first nail, to the last drop of paint, Starcom handles all aspects of the physical construction of your project. Our attention to detail and quality is second to none.
Inspections: At each phase of construction, we personally work with the county (Montgomery, Howard, Anne Arundel and Baltimore Counties) and obtain all inspections necessary. By the book, but integrated into the timeline so as not to slow down completion of your brand-new creation.
Warranty services: Promises are nice, warranties are protection. Check out our no-hassle warranties and see that Starcom stands behind our work and will be with you to the end of the project, and WELL beyond.

Whether you already have designed plans, are working with an architect, or just have a vision dancing around in your head, we can work with you to create a finished product that will be as beautiful as it is functional.

Plan your remodeling project

Build something beautiful. Our design experts will make your dreams a reality -- inside or outside your home.

Looking to update your home but feeling stumped? You want a new kitchen or bathroom, you need an addition, want to refresh your primary suite, or you're eager to renovate your garage — but you have several questions. How large of a project is this? What options do I have, such as moving walls and doorways? Can I fit it in my budget? With Starcom Design/Build, you can be assured we will work with you to come up with the perfect construction project ideas and then help you decide how to implement them.

Whether looking to redo a smaller 1/2 bath, or add a 2,000-square-foot addition to your dream home, Starcom Design/Build can manage the project from inception through completion. We work with some of the area's top architects to create a space that will literally transform an average area into an award-winning masterpiece, on budgets both large and small.

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Design your remodeling project

Starcom Design/Build's award-winning design team can help you create a personalized design, bringing the renovation of your dreams to reality. Our process begins with a Starcom Design/Build award-winning designer sitting down with you and your family to talk. We'll discuss your goals, what you're looking to get from the project, and the best ways to achieve these. No matter the size, scope, or budget, we will work with you personally to ensure that the project Starcom completes for you will add years of enjoyment for you and your family.

Some people are looking just to add additional open space, while others have a direct purpose. Whether it is an upgrading a primary suite with an additional master bathroom, or simply a walk-in closet, beginning first by identifying what it is you really want is the most important step. From there, our trained and knowledgeable contractors can suggest what designs and products will truly meet your needs.

Build your project

Bring your vision to life. Our experts specialize in taking your ideas and giving you a finished product that fits them perfectly.

When starting a building project with Starcom Design/Build, you can expect a professional experience and a quality outcome-project managers handle the details for you every step of the way, from legal requirements for home improvements to certifications and work requiring a specific skill set (i.e., plumbing). You'll receive a written estimate and agreement for any work to be completed prior to the start of the project, including price and timeframe for completion.

We are patient and we listen. Even though our professionals know exactly what to do during a remodel, our willingness to explain the design-build process will allow you to feel at ease putting your home in our hands.

We look forward to working with you!

With 40 years of experience in home remodeling, Starcom Design/Build can turn your ordinary home into something extraordinary. Whether you want a new kitchen, bathroom, primary suite, addition, sunroom, or anything else, we have the expertise and quality craftsmanship to transform your home into exactly what you envisioned.

We offer free estimates on all our home remodeling services, so call us today at 1-410-997-7700 to get started. We proudly serve in Columbia, Rockville, Silver Spring, and throughout the surrounding areas.

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