Our Process & Pricing
At FiveTen Construction & Design, we specialize in providing a design-driven contracting on the North Shore. Whether you're dreaming of a finished basement renovation, seeking expert residential interior design services, or exploring a design-build alternative, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Our streamlined process combines professional construction design with personalized interior design expertise, ensuring your project is efficient, enjoyable, and tailored to your unique vision.
Step 1: A Quick Chat
Once you submit the contact form, I'll be in touch to schedule a quick 10-minute call. This helps us make sure we're a good fit for each other before scheduling an on-site consultation. It also allows me to gather some initial information and answer any questions you might have, so we can use our consultation time efficiently.
Step 2: An On-site Consultation
In this 1-hour consultation, we’ll explore the potential of your space, discuss options that fit your ideal budget, explore layouts, and brainstorm design ideas. We’ll also go over your requirements and any “nice-to-haves” you’d like to incorporate. Plus, I’ll take measurements for use in the design phase.
COST: $250
(This fee is credited toward Step 3: Design and Planning if you decide to move forward.)
Step 3: The Construction & Design Plan
Now we start turning your vision into a reality:
I will create 3 layout options, plus 3D renderings to help you visualize each one.
We’ll review them together to see what you love and what you’d like to tweak.
I’ll take your feedback, refine the plan, and finalize the blueprint. (If you want more options or changes, we can do that too—just keep in mind, there may be a small extra cost).
During this phase we’ll also dive into high-level material selections. For example, we’ll pick out general flooring types (e.g., tile flooring) but we’ll leave the exact details (like the specific tile) for later. Same with cabinet layouts—we’ll create the rough layout but the exact configuration will come down the road. Each of these items allows for accurate estimating.
COST: Typically between $1,200-$2,000 depending on the scope of work and complexity of the project/space
Request a Detailed Estimate
Now that we’ve developed a thorough plan together, the next step is preparing your detailed estimate. Since so much time and thought has already gone into your project, we’re able to provide a highly detailed scope of work along with accurate, transparent pricing. This level of preparation helps eliminate foreseeable gray areas and removes the guesswork from what you’ll receive.
When building an estimate, we follow what we call the “wedding dress approach.” Rather than starting with the most expensive options—which can often lead to disappointment—we begin with a base scope driven by your plans and specifications. Once that foundation is approved, we can thoughtfully layer in upgrades and “nice-to-haves” like wall sconces, upgraded door styles, or luxury plumbing fixtures.
Estimates are always complimentary. We dedicate significant time to ensure our pricing is accurate and our scope is detailed enough to serve as the project’s roadmap. Unlike some contractors who rely on low or unrealistic allowances to win bids, we take a more conservative approach. Our goal is to stay as close to reality as possible—so if anything, you receive a credit back rather than unexpected additional costs.
Ultimately, the goal is to create such a clear and thorough plan that we could begin construction immediately with confidence. This preparation allows the project to run efficiently and helps minimize avoidable changes along the way.
COST: Free
Additional Add-Ons or Extra Services
Once you’ve received your customized plan and detailed project estimate, you have the option to enhance your experience with our additional design services, including:
Material Selection: I can help you choose the perfect finishes and materials that align with your vision and budget.
Material Procurement: Simplify your project. I can help you source, order and manage the deliveries of materials to ensure everything arrives on time and as expected.
Mood Boards: Curated mood boards to help guide your selections.
Design Consultations: Bounce ideas off me, refine your selections, and gain clarity with one-on-one design support.
These optional services are designed to ensure a seamless, stress-free process, with every detail thoughtfully curated to bring your vision to life.
COST: $140/hr
Take the First Step
Fill out our questionnaire so we can start to understand your goals for your space and how you’d like for it to function in your daily life. By sharing your vision and preferences, we can explore the best possibilities to optimize functionality while creating a space that’s as beautiful as it is practical. Let’s work together to design something truly amazing!