Making a major change to your home can be exciting and rewarding. It can also seem overwhelming. There are many ways to approach a remodeling project. Some of the most common are DIY or hiring a handyman, jack of all trades, or general contractor. For larger, more complex projects there are two options – hire an architect and/or designer and then a general contractor or hire a Design-Build remodeling firm.
In 1994 when George created The Cleary Company, he used the general contractor model working with different architects and designers over the years to create some amazing projects. After 15 years, he realized to best serve his clients it was time to add design to the company’s services. So, in 2009 George hired his first full-time designer, Laura Watson! Read more about our Design-Build process on our blog.
Differences Between a Residential Designer vs a Design Consultant?
What is a Residential Designer?
A residential designer, also known as a home designer, is a type of interior designer who specializes in working with clients to create functional and visually appealing living spaces. They work with client specifications and requirements to create the layout and structure of either new or existing homes. Our Designers advise on home construction features in relation to how each room should function to meet the client’s needs. They work closely with our Production Team to create a construction plan to help build the various features for each design-build project.
What is a Design Consultant?
A design consultant is a professional who provides aesthetic expertise and product knowledge based on the evaluation of the client’s needs and style. Our Design Consultants
- Assist with client selections of fixtures & finishes
- Create selection sheets for Design-Build projects
- Price project selections within budget
- Calculate material take-offs & place orders
- Manage samples in design studio
- Coordinate vendor meetings for new product offerings and lunch-n-learns
What You Should Know Before Starting Your Remodel Project
- HGTV is not reality, it’s for entertainment. The more research you can do before you hire a remodeler, the more you’ll enjoy the process of developing your design plan. And although the design process can feel long, especially when you’re ready to get started with demo, all the planning on the front end pays off during the construction phase.
- It’s not necessarily the product selections you make that drives the cost of your project but adding to the scope of work. It may seem obvious but when a project begins with a single room, a kitchen or bathroom for example, it’s easy to get caught up in thinking, “they’re already here so let’s remodel the mudroom or laundry too!”. This will certainly increase not only the materials but also the labor hours required to build a project.
- It’s ok to feel emotional during your remodel. Change is hard and remodeling is messy. Our Design-Build Team is with you through every step. We utilize our 27+ years of remodeling experience to have your best interest in mind.
- Friends, family, and others will offer advice and opinions throughout your project. It’s ok to listen but don’t let it dissuade you from choosing what makes you happy. Our Design Team enjoys getting to know you, your style, and your needs so that we can collaborate with you to create a successful remodeling plan.
- Remodeling is not EVER going to go perfectly as planned. There will be bumps, surprises, delays, and inconveniences. With over 27+ years of experience in remodeling, our Design-Build Team has pretty much seen it all and we’re prepared to take care of you and your home and manage your project to a successful completion.
To read more about what to expect during your home remodel, Check out our blog!
Ready to Remodel your home?
Relationships and collaboration are important to our Team’s success. We live and love the details!
If you are ready to work with the best Design-Build Team in Columbus, OH, give us a call @ 614-459-4000 OR visit the Contact page on our website. The experienced Design-Build professionals on our Team are ready to get started to create your dream home!



