Frequently Asked Questions

What services does Fresh Start Designs offer?

Fresh Start Designs provides a range of residential design solutions, including custom new home construction, production builds, remodels, renovations, and additions. Our phased approach allows homeowners to engage at the level that suits their needs, from initial concept exploration to detailed construction plans and optional project oversight. We also facilitate referrals to trusted partners for complementary services, ensuring a tailored experience without unnecessary commitments.

How does your phased process work?

Our process is divided into three flexible phases: Phase 1 focuses on initial consultations, site assessments, and concept sketches to explore ideas; Phase 2 advances to 3D visualizations and construction drawings for a refined, permit-ready design; and Phase 3 offers optional design oversight during construction to ensure execution aligns with your vision. Each phase is standalone, allowing you to proceed or pause as desired, providing control and adaptability throughout the project.

What size projects does Fresh Start Designs work on?

Fresh Start Designs specializes in more extensive and impactful residential projects that transform your home. We focus on custom new homes, significant remodels, renovations, and additions that require detailed planning and 3D visualizations—such as kitchen overhauls, open floor plan conversions, or multi-room expansions—ideal for reviving older, high-end properties in the Philadelphia suburbs and surrounding counties. While smaller updates like a powder room refresh may be better suited for a general contractor, our phased process is tailored for projects where our expertise in concept development, construction drawings, and optional oversight can make a lasting difference.

How long does each phase of the design process typically take?

Each phase at Fresh Start Designs is designed with your timeline in mind, offering a flexible schedule tailored to your project’s complexity. Phase 1 typically takes 2–4 weeks for consultations, site assessments, and concept sketches; Phase 2 spans 4–7 weeks for 3D visualizations and construction drawings, depending on engineering coordination; and Phase 3, our optional oversight, aligns with your construction timeline, usually 8–24 weeks. We’ll work closely with you to adjust as needed, ensuring a smooth journey to revive your home.

Do the meetings take place in person or virtually?

The initial meeting at Fresh Start Designs typically takes place virtually or in your home, with follow-up meetings occurring either virtually or at your location, depending on your preference. We work around your schedule to create the best experience with ease for you, ensuring the least amount of impact to your daily life during these Phases, making the process to revive your home as convenient as possible.

Can I bring my own ideas or plans to the initial consultation?

Absolutely! At Fresh Start Designs, we welcome your ideas and existing plans during the initial consultation in Phase 1, using them as a starting point to craft personalized concept sketches that reflect your vision. Whether you have rough sketches or specific inspirations, our 30 years of experience allows us to refine and enhance them, ensuring your project becomes a unique transformation tailored just for you.

What does "no-obligation" mean in your phased process?

Our "no-obligation" approach means there is no requirement to commit to the full project or continue with Fresh Start Designs beyond the current phase, giving you the freedom to evaluate options at your own pace. While each phase involves a financial investment to deliver valuable deliverables like sketches or plans, it eliminates the pressure of signing a long-term contract with a firm for the entire scope. This flexibility allows you to explore possibilities, such as a feasibility study in Phase 1, without being locked into further steps, empowering you to decide what's best for your home.

Do I have to use Fresh Start Designs for the entire project?

No, you are not required to use Fresh Start Designs for the full project. Our phased model is designed for modularity, so you can complete one phase and choose to proceed independently, select your own general contractor or interior designer, or utilize our vetted referrals. This ensures you retain control, avoiding the all-or-nothing commitment often associated with traditional design-build firms.

How do partnerships with other professionals work?

We collaborate with a network of vetted interior designers, engineers, and general contractors through optional referrals, allowing you to select experts that fit your project's needs without obligation. These partnerships are referral-based, meaning you engage directly with the professional for their services, which can save time and money compared to integrated firms with high overhead. This approach provides access to specialized skills while maintaining flexibility and cost efficiency.

What areas do you serve?

Fresh Start Designs primarily serves the Philadelphia suburbs and surrounding counties, including Chester, Montgomery, Bucks, Lancaster, York, Lebanon, Berks, and Lehigh. We focus on upscale neighborhoods and towns with higher-end, older homes, such as Bryn Mawr, Gladwyne, Villanova, and Radnor, where our expertise in reviving historic properties is particularly valued.

What makes Fresh Start Designs different from other design-build firms?

Fresh Start Designs stands out through its flexible, no-obligation phased process, which allows financial investment in standalone services without committing to a full project or firm. Unlike traditional design-build models that often involve high markups and mandatory bundles, we empower homeowners to choose their path, partnering with vetted professionals as needed to deliver cost-effective, personalized solutions that truly revive your home.

What should I prepare before contacting Fresh Start Designs?

Before reaching out, consider jotting down your project goals, such as areas to remodel or expand, your preferred style, and any budget considerations to share during our complimentary consultation. Photos of your space, notes on challenges (e.g., outdated layouts), and any inspiration images can help us hit the ground running in Phase 1, making the process to revive your home as efficient and effective as possible. We’re here to guide you every step.

How do I get started with Fresh Start Designs?

To begin, simply contact us via our website form, email revive@freshstartdesignsco.com, or call 610-624-2164 for a complimentary initial discussion. We'll guide you through the next steps, starting with Phase 1 to explore your ideas without pressure.