Resources
The Norton Blueprint: New Construction
The Details
Step 1: Let’s Get Started
Interest Form
Share a few details about your goals and vision.
Schedule Your Intro Call
Use THIS LINK to make finding a time easy.
Intro Call with Leslie
We’ll talk through your goals, timeline, and expectations.
Client Intake Form
You’ll complete a detailed questionnaire to help us understand your lifestyle, needs, and design preferences.
Step 2: Lot Walk & Vision Session
We’ll meet in person at the site of your future home. Leslie will evaluate the land, discuss possibilities, and help bring your vision to life in context with the property.
Step 3: Clarity & Commitment
Detailed Proposal
You’ll receive a clear outline of scope, timeline, and fees.
Client Review
Take time to ask questions, request changes, or clarify any details.
Contract Agreement
Once approved, the contract is signed via Docusign and the initial payment is made.
Step 4: Early Design Exploration
Bubble Diagrams (First Deliverable)
Leslie creates simple spatial layouts to define the relationships between rooms and overall flow of the home.
Step 5: Concept Design Development (6–8 Weeks)
Initial architectural drawings, including floor plans and exterior elevations, are developed based on your goals and the site.
Client Revisions
You’ll collaborate with Leslie to refine and evolve the design before moving forward.
Step 6: Final Design & Permit Prep
Design Detailing
We finalize all drawings needed for construction: window & door schedules, building sections, and electrical plans.
Engineer Collaboration
Leslie works closely with structural and other required engineers to complete technical aspects.
Permit Submission
Complete documentation is submitted for permitting approval.
Renovations / Additions Intake Form
When completing this form, consider these questions to jog your memory and get your wheels turning about your updated home:
What did you love about the home(s) you grew up in?
What would you change about the home(s) you grew up in?
Is there a hotel, Airbnb, or other space you’ve stayed in that inspired you?
Are there any features from a friend’s or family member’s home that you admire?
Do you have a favorite place (e.g., a café, library, or outdoor space) with a design or vibe you’d love to replicate in your home?
Do you have any design inspiration from magazines, websites, or social media? (If so, please share examples!)
Are there any architectural styles or eras that resonate with you?
New Construction Intake Form
When completing this form, consider these questions to jog your memory and get your wheels turning about your new home:
What did you love about the home(s) you grew up in?
What would you change about the home(s) you grew up in?
Is there a hotel, Airbnb, or other space you’ve stayed in that inspired you?
Are there any features from a friend’s or family member’s home that you admire?
Do you have a favorite place (e.g., a café, library, or outdoor space) with a design or vibe you’d love to replicate in your home?
Do you have any design inspiration from magazines, websites, or social media? (If so, please share examples!)
Are there any architectural styles or eras that resonate with you?
Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Contractor
It all begins with an idea.
Choosing the right contractor is just as important as choosing the right design for your renovation
or new construction project.
Here are the top 10 questions you should ask to ensure you’re working with a trusted professional who understands your vision and can bring it to life.
1. How long does it typically take to get permits for my project?
Permitting can impact the overall timeline of your project. Ask about their experience with local regulations and how long the permitting process might take.
2. Do you have a direct contract with your subcontractors?
It’s important to know whether your contractor works directly with all the specialists or if they rely on third-party agreements. This will help prevent communication breakdowns or delays down the line.
3. Can you provide references or examples of similar projects you’ve completed?
A reliable contractor should have a portfolio of work and references from past clients. Check to see if their work aligns with your style and quality expectations.
4. What is your estimated timeline for completing the project?
Every project has a different timeline, and it’s crucial to set realistic expectations. Ask for a detailed schedule, including key milestones and potential delays.
5. How do you handle changes or unexpected issues during the project?
It’s normal for projects to face challenges. Find out how the contractor manages unexpected issues, whether it's a design change, material delay, or budget adjustment.
6. What’s your payment schedule?
Understanding payment terms upfront helps prevent misunderstandings. Ask about their payment structure and whether it’s based on milestones, progress, or completion.
7. Do you have insurance and appropriate licensing?
Verify that the contractor is fully insured and licensed to work in your area. This protects both you and the contractor in case of accidents or legal issues.
8. What type of warranty or guarantee do you offer?
A good contractor should offer a warranty on their work to ensure that any issues that arise post-project are addressed.
9. How do you communicate throughout the project?
Ask about their preferred method of communication (email, phone, app) and how often you can expect updates. Consistent communication is key to keeping the project on track.
10. Do you have the ability to source and manage specialty contractors (e.g., mechanical, civil, etc.) if needed for the project?
Some projects require specialized expertise beyond general contracting. Ask if they have the capability to manage these additional professionals to avoid project delays.