skip to main content

Hire designer first, or GC first, for small bathroom remodel?

3 years ago

I have one bathroom remaining to renovate and want to avoid mistakes I made in hiring previously. I have already renovated my kitchen and two of my three bathrooms. With the kitchen, I hired a designer first, who then turned over construction to a "handyman" (whom I mistakenly assumed was licensed and working for the design company). With the bathrooms, I met first with a licensed GC who turned it into a design-build contract and multiplied the scope (and cost) ten-fold.

I would like to have a design for the remaining bathroom to present to GCs for multiple bids. I called several architects who said the project is too small for them; they recommended that I hire either a GC or designer. I spoke to one designer who said that I would need to hire a GC to work with her on the design. I am not moving any walls, but plan to enlarge one small window. I am considering changing the existing footprint, as the plumbing is in bad condition and all pipes will be replaced.

Is it possible that I can find a designer who would be willing to develop a preliminary plan for me to show to prospective GC's? This is sort of how things went with the kitchen designer, except that there was only one bid for construction.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (5)

PRO
Joseph Corlett, LLC
3 years ago
Search GC reputation, not bids please. He'll have a designer in mind.
plan2remodel thanked Joseph Corlett, LLC
chispa
3 years ago
Maybe give your general location and someone here might give a good referral. If you are in Los Angeles I have a great designer and 2 very good Contractors (licensed and insured).
plan2remodel thanked chispa
Related Discussions
First time remodeling bathroom and adjacent rooms -- questions
Q
Comments (2)
ILoveCookie: You need to speak to a very reputable General Contractor immediately and be honest about your budget and expectations. Good luck.
...See More
Planning minor remodel of small bathroom
Q
Comments (2)
Here are some pictures. Please note hubby is doing some wall repairs.
...See More
Hiring a Class C Contractor (Virginia) for a large bathroom remodel?
Q
Comments (10)
Yes, a contractor with a class C license in Virginia (which are issued by the Commonwealth--not any municipality) is limited to $10K projects. Once they meet the experience and financial requirements they can sit for a class B or class A contractor exam and move up the contractor food chain. A homeowner pulling a permit often enables an unlicensed contractor to do business illegally. The downside to a homeowner pulling a permit is that they become the general contractor for the project and assume all liability including worker's compensation issues, liability issues, etc. They would also be responsible to ensure the work is performed according to code. Sometimes unlicensed contractors will show you a business license which is required in addition to a contractor's license. If you want a copy of the contractor's certificate of insurance, I recommend you get one sent to you directly from their insurance agent--not from the contractor. That way you know it is still in effect.
...See More
Help - first time remodeling - does this bathroom/closet layout work?
Q
Comments (10)
Free software allows you to design as much as the game Operation prepares you to perform surgery. This is not a criticism of you personally, just a commentary about how without the knowledge of design principles or construction experience, no type of software will prevent you from making costly mistakes. For example, moving a toilet as far as you are showing can be quite expensive. My advice is to meet with a few contractors and/or designers first to assess your space and advise you on any limitations and potential overall cost. The information you receive may better help you to set a realistic design direction.
...See More
plan2remodel
Original Author
3 years ago
Yes, I am in LA County. My previous contractor was licensed and insured. He estimated $50K (most of this was for labor) for renovating two bathrooms -- he billed me over $400K and used unskilled labor for most of the work (including plumbing, electrical). He was highly recommended by a (former) friend in the construction business.
Helen
3 years ago
I can only speak from my experience remodeling. My remodel included a kitchen and two baths (among other things).

I hired the designer who drew up plans which were the basis for submitting to the City for permits as well as to the GC's in order to get bids that were apples to apples. You can't get a meaningful bid unless the GC's are bidding on the same specifications. Even the design of the tile (for example) will be relevant as certain tiles, materials and designs are more costly.

My designer who was very knowledgable about construction also acted as my Project Manager and so was a very experienced eye and advocate in terms of determining the quality of the work. She could let me know what was normal in terms of stuff and what needed to be corrected. She also had a relationship with the contractor and although I got along great with the guy he obviously had history with the designer and also would be motivated to make sure the job including all of the punch up stuff was right since if things went well he would be more likely to do future projects with her than with me - thus more clout.

Clout is also a great thing in terms of having stuff ordered through a designer. They might not care about one customer but they are very likely to make sure a designer is satisfied 100%.
plan2remodel thanked Helen
lwfromny
3 years ago
What you describe is exactly how I have worked with designers. I’ve never had a designer tell me the the GC needs to be involved before s/he can do a design.
plan2remodel thanked lwfromny

Related Stories

BATHROOM DESIGN 14 Design Tips to Know Before Remodeling Your Bathroom

By Mitchell Parker

Learn a few tried and true design tricks to prevent headaches during your next bathroom project

MOST POPULAR First Things First: How to Prioritize Home Projects

By Alison Hodgson

What to do when you’re contemplating home improvements after a move and you don't know where to begin

ROOM OF THE DAY Room of the Day: Small Master Bath Makes an Elegant First Impression

By Becky Harris

Marble surfaces, a chandelier and a window seat give the conspicuous spot the air of a dressing room

BATHROOM DESIGN 5 Small Bathrooms That Stretch Design Imagination

See how bathroom designers expanded the possibilities with fearless patterns, joyful accessories and smart space-saving solutions

BATHROOM DESIGN 12 Designer Tips to Make a Small Bathroom Better

By Charmean Neithart Interiors

Ensure your small bathroom is comfortable, not cramped, by using every inch wisely

SMALL SPACES New This Week: 6 Small-Bathroom Design Ideas

By Mitchell Parker

Pros share design tips for saving space and creating style in a compact bathroom

BATHROOM COLOR 8 Ways to Spruce Up an Older Bathroom (Without Remodeling)

By Liz Miller Interiors

Mint tiles got you feeling blue? Don’t demolish — distract the eye by updating small details

REMODELING GUIDES Bathroom Workbook: How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?

By Mitchell Parker

Learn what features to expect for $3,000 to $100,000-plus, to help you plan your bathroom remodel

INSIDE HOUZZ Why Homeowners Are Remodeling Their Master Bathrooms in 2018

By Erin Carlyle

Priorities are style, lighting, resale value and ease of cleaning, according to the U.S. Houzz Bathroom Trends Study

BATHROOM DESIGN 10 Things to Consider Before Remodeling Your Bathroom

By Affecting Spaces Design Studio

A designer shares her tips for your bathroom renovation

Sponsored

Daniel Russo Home

13 Reviews

Premier Interior Design Team Transforming Spaces in Franklin County

More Discussions

Shower curtain rod height

4

why does my perimeter grout in new shower look darker?

5

Bath remodel with walk in shower

1

bathroom remodel fan placement

0

black faucets in bathroom

2