Stress-Free Design & Build Remodeling in Chicago
We handle everything so you don't have to. One contract covers design, permits, materials, labor, project management, and final cleanup.
Over 500 completed projects across Chicago with zero complaints - that's the Assembly Squad difference.
Call (312) 544-9150 for your free consultation
What is Design & Build Remodeling?
One team, one contract, zero stress - that's the Assembly Squad promise
Design & Build is a single-source remodeling approach where one company handles every aspect of your project - from initial design consultation through final cleanup. Unlike traditional remodeling where you hire separate designers, contractors, and project managers, Assembly Squad provides complete turnkey service under one contract.
This integrated approach eliminates communication gaps, reduces delays, streamlines decision-making, and ensures accountability at every stage. You get a dedicated team that works together seamlessly, not independent contractors pointing fingers when problems arise.
Single Point of Contact
Your dedicated project manager coordinates every detail - no juggling multiple contractors or playing phone tag with different vendors.
Transparent Pricing
One comprehensive contract with no hidden fees. Know exactly what you're paying for before work begins.
Faster Timeline
Streamlined coordination means projects finish 30-40% faster than traditional multi-contractor approaches.
How Our Design & Build Process Works
Six simple steps from vision to reality - all handled by our expert team
Initial Consultation & Site Visit
We meet you at your home to discuss your vision, understand your needs, and assess your space. This free consultation covers:
- Your design preferences and must-haves
- Budget parameters and financing options
- Timeline expectations and living arrangements
- Structural assessment and feasibility analysis
- Chicago building code requirements and permits needed
Timeline: 60-90 minute meeting at your convenience
What You'll Get: Preliminary project scope and ballpark budget estimate
Contract & Project Agreement
Once we align on scope and budget, we prepare a comprehensive contract detailing:
- Complete scope of work with specific deliverables
- Itemized pricing breakdown - materials and labor
- Project timeline with key milestones
- Payment schedule tied to completion stages
- Warranty coverage and post-project support
- HOA requirements and building management coordination
Timeline: 3-5 business days for contract preparation
What You'll Get: Transparent, all-inclusive contract with zero hidden fees
Custom Design Development
This is where your vision comes to life. You'll work one-on-one with our NKBA-certified designer to create your perfect space:
- Multiple design concepts and layout options
- 3D renderings showing your finished space
- Material and finish selections from our showroom
- Lighting design and fixture specifications
- Appliance recommendations within your budget
- Unlimited revisions until design is perfect
Timeline: 2-3 weeks for full design development
What You'll Get: Complete design package with detailed specifications and final sign-off
Material Procurement & Delivery
We handle all purchasing and logistics so you don't have to. Our team:
- Orders all materials at contractor pricing (savings passed to you)
- Coordinates delivery schedules to minimize storage needs
- Inspects everything for damage before acceptance
- Manages returns and exchanges if needed
- Secures Chicago building permits and inspections
- Coordinates with your building management and HOA
Timeline: 2-4 weeks for procurement and permit processing
What You'll Get: All materials delivered job-ready with permits in hand
Professional Installation & Project Management
Construction begins with your dedicated project manager overseeing every detail:
- Daily site supervision and quality control checks
- Coordinated scheduling of all trades (plumbing, electrical, carpentry)
- Regular photo updates and progress reports
- Proactive problem-solving and change order management
- Clean workspace maintained daily with dust barriers
- Respectful work hours (typically 9am-5pm weekdays)
Timeline: Varies by project scope (typically 3-8 weeks)
What You'll Get: Professional installation by licensed, insured craftsmen
Final Walkthrough, Cleanup & Warranty
We don't consider the job done until you're thrilled with every detail:
- Comprehensive punch list walkthrough with you
- Professional cleaning - your space spotless and move-in ready
- All debris removed and properly disposed
- Chicago building inspections passed and certificates provided
- Owner's manuals and warranty documentation delivered
- Comprehensive warranty on workmanship and materials
Timeline: 1-2 days for final details and cleanup
What You'll Get: Beautiful, finished space ready to enjoy plus ongoing support
Design & Build vs. Traditional Remodeling
See why Chicago homeowners choose our integrated approach
| Feature | Assembly Squad Design & Build |
Traditional Multi-Contractor |
|---|---|---|
| Single Point of Contact | ||
| One Comprehensive Contract | ||
| Design Services Included | Separate Fee | |
| Materials Procurement | We Handle Everything | Homeowner Responsibility |
| Permit Processing | Included | Additional Cost |
| Project Management | Dedicated PM Assigned | Homeowner Coordinates |
| Design Changes During Construction | Streamlined Process | Complex & Costly |
| Communication | One Team | Multiple Vendors |
| Final Cleanup Included | Usually Extra | |
| Accountability | Single Responsible Party | Finger-Pointing |
| Typical Project Timeline | 30-40% Faster | Longer with Delays |
| Warranty Coverage | Comprehensive | Multiple Limited |
The bottom line: Design & Build eliminates the stress, confusion, and delays of traditional remodeling. You get superior results faster, with one team accountable for everything from concept to completion. No contractor blame games. No communication breakdowns. Just a beautiful space delivered on time and on budget.
Why Chicago Homeowners Choose Assembly Squad
12+ years of delivering stress-free remodeling experiences
Licensed & Insured
Illinois General Contractor License TGC098779, fully bonded, and comprehensive liability insurance protects your investment.
BBB A+ Rated
Zero complaints in 12+ years of business. Our reputation speaks louder than any marketing.
In-House Team
All labor provided by our vetted, experienced craftsmen - no unreliable subcontractors or day laborers.
Chicago Expertise
We understand Chicago's unique challenges - from historic building codes to condo board requirements to brutal winter construction logistics.
Transparent Pricing
Detailed itemized estimates with no hidden fees. Know exactly what you're paying for before signing anything.
Client-Focused
73% of our business comes from referrals and repeat clients. We earn trust by treating your home like our own.
Design & Build Remodeling FAQs
Quick answers about our all-inclusive remodeling process
What is design-build remodeling and how does it work?
Design-build remodeling is a single-source approach where one company handles design, permitting, material procurement, construction, and project management under one contract. Unlike traditional remodeling where you hire separate designers and contractors, design-build streamlines everything with one team, one timeline, and one point of accountability. This eliminates communication gaps, reduces delays by 30-40%, and ensures seamless coordination from concept to completion.
How much does a design-build remodel cost in Chicago?
Design-build remodeling in Chicago costs $50,000-$150,000 for most kitchen and bathroom projects. Budget renovations start at $35,000, mid-range projects run $75,000-$100,000, and luxury remodels exceed $150,000. Design-build pricing is typically 10-15% lower than hiring separate designers and contractors because it eliminates markup duplication and reduces change orders through better coordination. All Assembly Squad contracts include design services, permits, materials, labor, project management, and final cleanup.
What's included in a design-build contract?
Assembly Squad's design-build contracts include everything: initial consultation, custom design development, Chicago permits, all materials, professional installation, dedicated project management, and final cleanup. You get 3D renderings, unlimited design revisions, contractor-pricing on materials, coordinated scheduling of all trades, daily progress updates, and comprehensive warranty coverage. One contract covers every detail with transparent pricing and zero hidden fees.
How long does a design-build remodel take?
Most design-build remodels take 6-12 weeks from contract signing to completion. Design development takes 2-3 weeks, permit processing adds 2-4 weeks, and construction ranges from 3-8 weeks depending on scope. Design-build finishes 30-40% faster than traditional remodeling because one team coordinates all work without scheduling conflicts between separate contractors. Kitchen remodels typically complete in 4-6 weeks, bathrooms in 3-4 weeks, and whole-home projects in 10-16 weeks.
What are the advantages of design-build over traditional remodeling?
Design-build advantages include: single point of contact, faster timelines (30-40%), lower costs (10-15%), better communication, streamlined design changes, and clear accountability. Traditional remodeling requires homeowners to coordinate multiple contractors, manage schedule conflicts, and navigate finger-pointing when problems arise. Design-build eliminates these headaches with one unified team responsible for every aspect of your project from design through warranty.
Do I need to hire a separate designer for design-build remodeling?
No, professional design services are included in design-build contracts - you don't hire a separate designer. Assembly Squad provides NKBA-certified designers who work one-on-one with you to create custom plans, 3D renderings, and material specifications. This integrated approach ensures your design is both beautiful and buildable, eliminating expensive change orders from designers who don't understand construction realities. You save $5,000-$15,000 in separate design fees while getting better coordination.
Who handles permits and materials in design-build remodeling?
The design-build contractor handles all Chicago permits and material procurement. Assembly Squad processes electrical, plumbing, and building permits ($500-$2,500), coordinates HOA approvals, purchases all materials at contractor pricing, manages delivery schedules, and inspects everything for quality. You don't spend time researching products, comparing prices, or coordinating deliveries - we handle logistics while you make the fun design decisions.
What's the biggest mistake to avoid when choosing a design-build remodeler?
The biggest mistake is choosing a design-build remodeler based on the lowest bid without verifying licensing, insurance, and references. Legitimate Chicago design-build firms hold Illinois General Contractor licenses (TGC), carry $2M+ liability insurance, and have verifiable completed projects. Check BBB ratings, read recent reviews, and demand detailed contracts with payment schedules tied to milestones. Low bids often signal unlicensed contractors, poor-quality materials, or hidden change orders.
Can I make changes during a design-build remodel?
Yes, design changes are easier and less expensive with design-build remodeling because one team handles design and construction. Assembly Squad's project managers assess change order feasibility immediately, provide accurate pricing within 24-48 hours, and coordinate adjustments without schedule delays. Traditional remodeling requires renegotiating with separate designers and contractors, often adding weeks and 20-30% premium costs. Design-build's integrated approach keeps changes affordable and fast.
Is design-build remodeling worth the cost in Chicago?
Yes, design-build remodeling delivers 10-15% cost savings, 30-40% faster completion, and significantly less stress than traditional approaches. Chicago homeowners save money through coordinated purchasing, fewer change orders, and reduced delays. The single-source accountability eliminates contractor blame games and communication breakdowns. Most Assembly Squad clients say the peace of mind and time savings alone justify choosing design-build over juggling multiple contractors. Projects finish on schedule with fewer surprises and better quality control.
Ready for a Stress-Free Remodeling Experience?
Join 500+ Chicago homeowners who chose Assembly Squad's all-inclusive Design & Build approach. One contract. Zero stress. Beautiful results.
No pressure. No obligation. Just honest advice from Chicago's most trusted remodeling team.