Quartersawn

This project was a very positive experience for us. We spent the first tw0 months in the "design phase" establishing a new layout with all specifications before starting the "build" phase. The project included "gutting" the existing kitchen, pushing out the backwall by 3-ft (cantilevered), new cabinets, etc. The result is a delightfully more functional kitchen that is good for everyday living as well as entertaining. During the "build", we met weekly with the Quartersawn project manager and construction supervisor to review completed tasks and scheduled tasks for the coming week as well as address any issues/concerns. Quartersawn was adept at setting and managing expectations. They used the buildertrend.net website for managing the project plan and communicating with us. In addition to our weekly face-to-face meetings, we also have open communication channels via phone, text, and email. Their project plan/schedule was set "realistically" with adequate contingency to accommodate surprises. This helped to assure success in meeting the promised completion date and budget at the end of the 3-month "build". Example: when the cabinet maker determined early on that their deliverable date was in jeopardy, the PM and construction supervisor were able to negotiate and adjust the plan to still achieve the completion date. Quartersawn's carpentry staff were very competent in their trade as well as courteous, responsive, and professional; they were also safety-minded and maintained good housekeeping of the job site throughout the “build”. Quartersawn also brought in very competent subcontractors for electrical, HVAC, plumbing, cabinetry, and countertops. Quartersawn helped us establish a project budget that fit within our price range that included some homeowner tasks: interior demolition, painting of walls, and finishing of interior doors/trim. Critical success factors include: 1. Getting all specifications "nailed down" during "design" phase (time & materials)--this was greatly helped because we knew our needs and made decisions in a timely manner. 2. Quartersawn following good project management disciplines. A plan/schedule/budget was established upfront before the "build" (construction) started with commitments from all subcontractors. This included a "change order" process if we (homeowner) wanted to deviate from the established design & plan. There was a "project management" line item (% of "build") in the budget and worth it looking back--a familiar concept to me as a PM on technology projects. 3. Having an engaged, responsive, and decisive homeowner. Procrastinating would have clearly dragged out the "design" and could have put the "build" completion date in jeopardy. We took responsibility to check daily work and raise questions/concerns promptly rather than letting them queue up. 4. Having a skilled, competent, and professional team—both their internal carpenters and subcontractors.

Basement remodel, including egress window and adding a bathroom