Our Process
At Hopkins & Porter, our goal is to make remodeling feel clear, organized, and exciting for homeowners in Northwest Washington, D.C.
Our design-build process has been refined over 45+ years to guide homeowners through every step with confidence. By keeping design, budgeting, and construction under the home remodeling company, we create a smoother experience with fewer surprises and better results.
Our Design/Build Philosophy
Design-build means one team handles everything, from early ideas to final construction. This cohesive approach reduces stress, streamlines coordination, and helps projects stay on budget.
Homeowners benefit from:
- One point of contact from start to finish
- Designers and builders working closely together
- A smoother process for complex, high-end projects
- Unified budgeting and planning before construction
- Weekly updates and consistent communication
01
Preliminary Design
This is where we help your ideas take shape. We learn about your goals, document your space, and explore early concepts to re-imagine your home.
This phase includes:
- A detailed conversation about your needs and vision
- Measuring and documenting your current space
- Early sketches and layout ideas
- Zoning and code checks to confirm feasibility
- A preliminary cost estimate for alignment
Once the concept is approved, we move to detailed design.
02
Design Development
During this step, we refine your design and prepare everything for construction. This is where decisions become clear, and the budget becomes more precise.
This phase includes:
- Final floor plans, elevations, and details
- Selection of fixtures, appliances, finishes, and materials
- Subcontractor quotes for accurate pricing
- A fixed-cost budget and construction agreement
- Permit-ready drawings prepared by our team
This step confirms the design is complete and ready to build.
03
Construction Process
With permits in hand, construction can begin. Our team focuses on clean work, clear communication, and delivering the design exactly as you dreamed it.
This phase includes:
- A pre-construction meeting to review the schedule
- Weekly on-site meetings with your project manager
- Regular updates and quick responses to questions
- Careful coordination of trades and materials
- A final walk-through and detailed punch list
Our goal is a smooth construction experience that’s completed on time and within budget.
04
Warranty Process
We support homeowners well after the project is complete with one of the strongest warranties in the region.
This includes:
- A 9-month walk-through to check for settling issues
- An 18-month follow-up for continued care
- A 23-month final check-in
- A 2-year active warranty plus a 3-year structural warranty (5-year total)
You also get access to our home maintenance division for ongoing service.
Why This Process Works
Our process has worked for decades thanks to the clear and organized nature of remodeling projects . Homeowners choose Hopkins & Porter for:
- Over 45 years of proven design-build experience
- A single team guiding every step
- Clear budgeting and detailed plans
- Strong communication and weekly updates
- Skilled designers, managers, and craftsmen
- A calm, supportive experience from start to finish
- Long-term care after the project is complete
Have a question?
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Process
Why choose a design-build firm like Hopkins & Porter?
Design-build creates a smoother experience as one team handles design, budgeting, and construction. This reduces delays, improves communication, and results in a final product that matches the plan.
How long does the home renovation process take?
Timelines vary based on project size. Preliminary design and development can take several weeks. Construction timing depends on the scope, but can take weeks or months. Once designs are complete, you will get a detailed schedule before work begins.
Do I need a separate architect or designer?
No. We provide all architectural, design, and project management services in-house.
How do you keep the project on budget?
We provide early estimates, detailed drawings, and quotes before construction begins. This allows us to finalize an accurate budget and reduce surprises.
Do you handle permitting?
Yes. Our team prepares and submits all permit documents and coordinates with local jurisdictions in the Northwest Washington, D.C region.
What happens after construction is complete?
Your project enters our structured warranty program with scheduled check-ins. You can also use our home maintenance division for ongoing support.
What are some luxury flooring options that balance beauty and practicality?
Luxury kitchens commonly feature materials like wide-plank hardwood, stone tile, large-format porcelain, and engineered wood. These options provide excellent durability and are easy to maintain. Natural stone provides a refined character, hardwood adds warmth, and porcelain delivers exceptional strength, ensuring your flooring withstands heavy use.
Get in Touch with Hopkins & Porter
Talk with our team to see how our design-build process can simplify your remodel and bring your vision to life.
