When a house becomes a home
Let's create something great together
What We Do
Welcome to By Design Properties in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where we specialize in boutique real estate development and design consultancy. We blend expertise in real estate investment, development, and bespoke design to craft unique living experiences.
At the core is a belief that design is more than aesthetics; it embodies the exploration of intention and execution. The foundation is uncovering the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind every creative inquiry, celebrating design’s complexities and nuances. Intention is the driving force, while execution brings ideas to life, resulting in impactful outcomes.
Through collaborative efforts with experts and craftspeople, we strive to capture the interests and aspirations of prospective buyers while maximizing the unique attributes of each property. At By Design Properties, our mission is to elevate living experiences that evoke emotional responses, inspiring individuals to embark on a transformative journey through design.
Our Process
01
Discovery
This phase begins with thorough market research to identify potential development opportunities. Market trends, demand-supply dynamics, and demographic factors are analyzed to assess feasibility. Negotiations for purchase agreements and securing financing follow. Initial consultations with clients are conducted to understand their needs and vision. Pain points, opportunities, and constraints are identified in alignment with the client’s objectives.
02
Collaboration
By collaborating with architects, engineers, and design professionals, project plans and designs are developed to meet market demand and client objectives. Necessary approvals and permits are obtained, incorporating sustainable and energy-efficient design principles. A comprehensive design addressing identified pain points and enhancing the overall experience of the space is developed.
03
Ideation
Creative brainstorming sessions lead to the generation of ideas and concepts that address client objectives and enhance property value. Various design options and solutions are explored, aligning with market trends and user preferences.
04
Curation
A plan prioritizing project goals and setting clear objectives for material selection and design elements is developed. A selection of materials, finishes, and furnishings that complement the design vision, considering sustainability and energy efficiency, is curated. Detailed drawings and specifications for materials and finishes, aligning with client preferences and project priorities, are created.
05
Build
Contractors, subcontractors, and vendors are selected to execute the construction phase, incorporating chosen design elements and materials. The construction process is overseen to ensure quality, timeliness, and compliance with regulations. Project costs, schedules, and risks are managed while fostering collaboration and communication among stakeholders.
06
Marketing
Marketing strategies are developed to promote the project to potential buyers or tenants, highlighting its unique features and value proposition. Sales or leasing campaigns are launched to attract interest and generate leads. Contracts are negotiated and deals closed with buyers or tenants, ensuring a seamless transition to operational status upon completion.
Your priority is our priority
Setting Priorities
Guiding Principles
In the realm of design, every project presents unique challenges and opportunities. While our approach may share similarities across projects, it’s essential to tailor each strategy to the specific context. At the core of our endeavors lies the establishment of clear priorities, which serve as the guiding principles shaping the trajectory of the project. These include cost, sustainability, functionality, quality, and design.
Setting Priorities
By setting these critical priorities prior to starting the project, a roadmap is developed and helps create a path forward so that when construction starts, everyone is clear about how things are aligned. For example, if cost is number one, that’s how we are going to make decisions. If sustainability is number one, that’s how we are going to make decisions.
This is important because all projects have constraints and problems that arise, by knowing the set priorities, it helps navigate in the decisions making process. Take for example, you find out that you need to re-insulate your ceiling, which comes at different price points and a number of products that are more sustainable than others. If cost is the first priority then you’re final choice might be different compared to if grade and sustainability of the product was the first priority.
Ensuring a favorable return on investment and client satisfaction
A commitment to building a better home with a focus on energy efficiency
Creating functional spaces characterized by openness and abundant natural light
Prioritizing quality craftsmanship and collaboration with experts in their respective fields
Laying a solid aesthetic foundation upon which the client can imprint their personal style
Remodeling Your Home vs. Remodeling to Sell
Understanding Intention
Understanding the intention behind a remodel is the beginning of the process. Take for example how approaching a home remodel with the intention of living in it versus remodeling with the goal of selling it involves distinct considerations and priorities. While both approaches involve enhancing the home through renovation, the key differences lie in the priorities, objectives, and target audience of the remodel. Whether remodeling to live in or to sell, careful consideration of these factors is essential to achieving a successful outcome.
REMODELING YOUR HOME
The focus is on creating a space that reflects the homeowner’s lifestyle, preferences, and long-term needs. Design decisions are driven by personal taste and comfort rather than market appeal.
Emphasis is placed on optimizing the layout and functionality of the home to accommodate the daily activities and routines of the occupants. The remodel may involve customizations tailored to specific lifestyle needs, such as adding a home office or expanding the kitchen for entertaining.
The primary objective is to enhance the quality of life for the homeowners, making the home more comfortable, functional, and enjoyable to live in. Investments may be made in features that prioritize comfort, convenience, and well-being, such as energy-efficient upgrades or luxury amenities.
The remodel is geared towards creating a home that the homeowners can enjoy for years to come. Design choices may prioritize durability, longevity, and timeless appeal over short-term trends or resale value.
REMODELING TO SELL
The focus is on enhancing the aesthetic and functional appeal of the home to attract potential buyers and maximize its resale value. Design decisions are guided by market trends, buyer preferences, and the expectations of the target demographic.
Efforts are made to depersonalize the space and create a neutral canvas that appeals to a broad range of buyers. This may involve removing personalized decor, repainting in neutral colors, and updating fixtures and finishes to create a cohesive, universally appealing look.
The remodel is approached from a financial perspective, with the goal of achieving the highest return on investment (ROI) possible. Investments are made in upgrades and improvements that are likely to increase the home’s perceived value and resale potential, such as kitchen and bathroom renovations or curb appeal enhancements.
Budget considerations are paramount, and decisions are made with an eye towards maximizing the impact of the remodel while minimizing expenses. Value-engineering strategies may be employed to achieve a polished look without overspending, such as opting for mid-range materials and prioritizing high-impact areas.