Specify Materials & Quality

If you've got particular items, materials, qualities or other specifications, you'll want to put them out in front, when you're negotiating. Accurate, sharp quotes result from accurate, sharp specifications. Late requests and change orders simply raise the costs for everybody.

Oakmark ordinarily develops a checklist for specifications for each project. The purpose is to focus the conversation on these issues, ensure that these key factors get full attention in the planning and delivery of your project. For unusual or non-standard particulars, you might want to obtain a sample through Oakmark or from a retail supplier. For manufactured items, a model number or a URL from an online catalog can provide clarity and precision.

Construction projects start out as generalized ideas. However, it's often the details that count most when it comes to enjoying the result of your project. Details have a tendency to pop up late in the planning, though. And, by their nature, they tend to be numerous and easily missed or forgotten. So put in some effort at gathering together notes on what you want. These details might even include aspects more associated with the intended use of the space than the construction of it.

As you find something you like, capture some identifying detail. Collect a brochure on a sauna, write down the model number of that special radiator, take a picture of that unusual fireplace mantel with your cell phone, bookmark the URL of that amplifier and speaker system you want included in your digital theatre. Basically, create a scrapbook, a file, some kind of record that will help you keep track of the details you value, help you express them efficiently and precisely.

For finishes, a brand and color swatch are fine for specifying what you want -- to the craftsman. However, be aware that there are some design choices that have a large emotional component. Color is certainly one of them. So it's always a good idea to arrange for samples of several potential color choices to give the entire household plenty of time to fully evaluate and air opinions on these details. (Believe it or not, spouses sometimes have remarkably contrary preferences on design options.) Ask to have "swatches" of your choices of paint applied to your walls, for a few days or even weeks. Note them in the evening, and during a bright weekend morning. Keep that sample of Brazilian mahogany flooring where you see it every day. The point here is, emotional design choices require exposure in the context of your home and time to settle.