I appreciate being able to work in a productive relationship with a contractor! Often, I work on projects that are isolated from the contractor and often contractors complain about designers unrealistic designs. Working together means that I can design efficiently and effectively, directly benefiting the client.
Through the design phases if the contractor is involved to give advise of cost and expose design details that are not cost effective, the project is not only be designed beautifully but is also affordable.
Working as a team of homeowner, contractor and designer is essential to the timeline, budget and design of the overall project. Anything less becomes too expensive and poorly designed. I encourage you require your designer and contractor to communicate openly and effectively during the design phase of the project. What would you prefer at your home?