Design and Approval

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  • First step is for us to understand you – your taste, aesthetic, priorities and the way you live to help us design your dream home. We will conduct a detailed client survey to learn your preferences, so the design process is specific and tailored to you.

  • Next we establish a scope and get feedback on what your priorities are and which parts of the project you want to pursue.

  • From there we kick off Conceptual Design. mdg will produce layout options, mood boards and photo-realistic renderings. This is where you will start to see the project come to life. These preliminary drawings will even include fixtures, appliance and material options.

  • Using the conceptual design as the starting point, we will create a more comprehensive set of drawings to with more detail to produce more accurate budgeting, planning and to start the approval process. This will also be the basis of the construction drawings and specifications.

  • The Approvals Phase comes next. Construction in New York City can be complicated and confusing, but mdg understands the process and has the right experience to move things along quickly. Before beginning construction will need approvals from several different entities which wild vary depending on the location and type of work. This could include your own building’s architect and board, the Landmarks Preservation Committee (LPC) and the Department of Buildings (DOB).

    Each approving entity has its own application requirements, process and requires unique documents and strategies to ensure the approvals do not drag on. mdg has experience with buildings and board applications, and understands what it takes to gain approval and have a smooth, successful project.

Design, Specifications, and Construction Planning:

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  • Having comprehensive drawings, details and specifications defined prior to the start of construction, and included in the pricing process, is critical to a successful project and helps limit surprises. mdg knows what it takes to give our clients and our build team what they need so there are no delays or inactive days on site. This requires meticulous planning and an integrated approach to material and product selection, to ensure fixtures and materials consider the project timeline and construction sequencing.

    We understand that time is money and diligent preparation is the main factor of success.

  • If materials or appliances are unavailable due to cost or lead time, we will work to find alternatives that match the design intent and meet quality and timeline expectations. We are dedicated to our clients and provide white glove service to decrease stress and find solutions.

Construction to Completion

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  • Once construction starts, the clock is ticking. We will have constant oversight to ensure your home is meticulously crafted at the highest quality and in the most efficient manner possible. Project managers and site superintendents will be on site and looking ahead so that materials and strategies are in place to ensure the schedule is held. Field reports with photos and progress updates will be sent out regularly to ensure maximum transparency for our clients. Creating a custom, luxury home means that there will always be complications and surprises, especially when working in older buildings and there needs to be visibility at every step to catch problems and find solutions.

  • mdg’s specific experience in design and construction means we can problem solve on-site and in real-time, and our close relationships with the build team means we can respond fast, get buildable updated designs to the field immediately and implement solutions with minimal (or even no) delays or cost impact.

    We are firm believers that limitations often yield better designs, and because we have the expertise to anticipate challenges, we are ready to tackle any situation to make your home even better.