Whole-home renovations are the most complex projects we undertake. Unlike a single-room remodel, they require orchestrating dozens of trades across months of construction while keeping your daily life as manageable as possible. With more than 20 years of combined experience in Austin, we have refined a process that minimizes stress and maximizes results. Here is exactly what to expect.
Phase 1: Discovery and Design (Weeks 1–6)
The journey begins with an in-home consultation where we assess your space, discuss your vision, and identify any structural or mechanical constraints. We then develop preliminary designs, material palettes, and a detailed estimate. For whole-home renovations, we recommend a dedicated design phase of 4–6 weeks. This is where decisions about floor plans, structural modifications, electrical layouts, and plumbing reroutes are finalized. Rushing this phase leads to costly change orders later.
Phase 2: Permitting and Pre-Construction (Weeks 7–10)
Once designs are approved, we submit permit applications to the City of Austin. Whole-home renovations typically require building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits. In Austin, permit review takes 2–4 weeks for residential projects. During this window, we order long-lead materials like custom cabinetry, windows, doors, and specialty fixtures. We also coordinate temporary living arrangements if you plan to remain in the home during construction.
Phase 3: Demolition and Rough-In (Weeks 11–16)
Demolition is surprisingly fast — usually 1–2 weeks. The rough-in phase is where the real work happens. Electricians run new circuits and panels. Plumbers relocate or replace pipes. HVAC contractors upgrade ductwork and install new systems. Framers execute structural modifications. This phase is noisy, dusty, and invasive. If you are living in the home, we recommend relocating for 4–6 weeks during rough-in.
Phase 4: Drywall, Flooring, and Finishes (Weeks 17–22)
The transformation becomes visible during finishing. Drywall goes up, mud and paint transform bare walls, flooring is installed, cabinets arrive, countertops are templated, and fixtures are mounted. This is the phase where homeowners get excited again. We conduct weekly site walks during finishing to review progress and make any minor adjustments before final installation.
Phase 5: Final Delivery and Walkthrough (Weeks 23–24)
In the final two weeks, we complete punch-list items, deep clean the entire home, test all systems, and conduct a comprehensive walkthrough with you. We address every detail — paint touch-ups, hardware adjustments, caulk lines, appliance programming — before handing over keys. Our warranty covers workmanship for one year.
Living Through a Renovation: Practical Tips
If staying in your home, designate one living zone as a construction-free sanctuary. Communicate your daily schedule with the project manager so work can be timed around your routines. Expect dust everywhere despite our best containment efforts. Budget for more takeout than usual. And most importantly, trust the process — the chaos is temporary, but the results are permanent.