YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Talkin’ Shop With Armstrong Building Co.
Before you break ground on any project, there are a thousand questions you may be asking — or don’t yet know to ask! That's where the expertise of both interior designers and contractors truly shines, guiding you through the process with expert insight. From conceptualization to execution, this collaboration is the backbone of any successful home renovation, design project, or new construction endeavor.
At Jessie Ann Design, our relationships with contractors are essential. We deeply value the role they play in bringing our visions to life. Today, we're flipping the spotlight onto the other half of this dynamic duo as we sit down with Trevor Armstrong, the powerhouse and founder of Armstrong Building Co., to peel back the curtain on what you need to know ahead of any construction. He gives us a look behind-the-scenes into how he turns client’s dreams into reality, one hammer swing at a time.
JAD: Before we dive in, what led you to pursue a career in construction?
Armstrong Build Co.: However, after graduating from high school without a clear path in mind, I stumbled upon a construction job. Initially, I found myself tackling physically demanding tasks like digging ditches and loading dumpsters, but as time went on, I delved deeper into the craft, progressing from rough framing and electrical work to the intricate artistry of finish carpentry. It was within the realm of fine carpentry and woodworking that I discovered a profound connection to my artistic side. I dedicated several years to mastering these skills, eventually establishing my own successful business.
As I matured and my curiosity intensified, I felt compelled to seek a fresh challenge. This led me to explore general contracting work, where I found myself overseeing large-scale projects and managing multiple trades.
JAD: What would you say is your specialty?
Armstrong Building Co.: Throughout my journey, my area of expertise has evolved, but it has always revolved around custom residential construction. Currently, my primary focus lies in comprehensive residential remodeling, where I thrive in my ability to pay meticulous attention to detail.
JAD: For the clients gearing up for a construction project, what preliminary steps do you recommend they take?
Armstrong Building Co.: Starting a remodel or custom build, regardless of its scale, can be both exciting and overwhelming simultaneously. It demands a significant investment of both time and money. That’s why choosing the right contractor to partner with is so important. Cultivating a relationship built on trust and open communication is paramount. Together, you can effectively establish clear project objectives, the total scope of work, and desired results. It’s essential to identify any specific requirements, budget limitations, timelines, and unique needs through a collaborative approach.
JAD: When considering the financial side of construction what factors should someone weigh to determine if a remodel is within their budget?
Armstrong Building Co.: Before making any decisions, it is highly recommended to consult with a contractor. Starting the conversation with transparency regarding your budget can save both you and the contractor valuable time and effort. A trustworthy and reliable contractor should be able to provide you with a rough estimate of construction costs in the initial stages, even before any official agreements are made. This way, if certain aspects, such as the guest bathroom, for example, do not align with your budget, you can easily remove them from the project scope instead of searching for cheaper alternatives and potentially ending up with a contractor with whom you don’t feel comfortable. Open and frequent communication fosters a sense of trust between both parties involved.
JAD: OK, we know that living through a remodel can be challenging; what are some pitfalls to avoid, and do you have any tips to make the process smoother?
Armstrong Building Co.: Communication! Open communication. Also, try to stay open-minded — there are always changes and bumps in the road it’s how we handle them that makes it go smoother. Some pitfalls might be making decisions on finishes or layout on the fly. Sometimes that can bring the job to a complete stop.
JAD: For potential clients concerned about the timeline of their project, how do you ensure timely completion without compromising quality?
Armstrong Building Co.: I usually provide my clients with a pretty accurate timeline based on their scope of work. The best way to ensure completion without compromising quality is to have all the design details worked out before we even break ground, order materials with longer lead times according to that timeline, and, most importantly, maintain an open line of communication. Making decisions and changes quickly in real time is also crucial.
JAD: Can you describe the value of having an interior designer on board as part of the team?
Armstrong Building Co.: Designers always help the project go smoother! They have extensive knowledge of various materials, finishes, textures, and popular trends, letting them create a visually captivating space that we’re all looking for. They can also provide detailed elevation AutoCAD drawings, which are extremely helpful for client approvals of layouts and locations.
As we bring this Q&A to a close, it's obvious that when interior designers and contractors team up, it's not just about combining skills—it's about blending visions, expertise, and a shared commitment to crafting spaces that truly speak to clients. Here at Jessie Ann Design, we can't overstate the importance of contractors in bringing our designs to fruition. So, if you're diving into a home project, keep in mind that the real magic happens when designers and contractors join forces — to make your vision a reality.
Visit Armstrong Building Co.'s website at www.armstrongbuildingco.com to check out Trevor's work and inquire about his services.
