One of the first questions people ask when they call is, “When could you start?”

It’s a fair question. People want to understand the timeline and how soon their project could realistically happen. The short answer is that it depends on where you are in the design process and the size and complexity of the job.

At Kashas Design Build, we plan projects carefully. Construction usually begins well after the design process starts, and that timeline can vary a lot depending on the scope.

From Plan to Reality. The slideshow above shows how the project came together — from early concepts through permitting and construction. Want to see how it all turned out?

For a smaller project like a kitchen remodel, the design and planning phase might take four to six months. For a home addition, it could be six to nine months. For a large custom home or complex whole-house remodel, thoughtful planning and coordination can take a year or even longer before construction begins.

Design, estimating, and planning take time. We develop detailed drawings, confirm selections, finalize budgets, and align everyone involved: architects, designers, trades, and suppliers before we ever break ground. That preparation is what allows construction to move forward efficiently once it begins.

When builders rush to start early, they often run into budget overruns, scheduling issues, and an overall bad experience for the client. Taking the time to plan properly always pays off.

We also prefer to be involved as early as possible, whether you’re just starting design or already working with an architect. Early collaboration gives the project the best chance of success. It helps us anticipate challenges, align on cost and constructability, and ensure the design you love can be built as intended.

If you’re thinking about a remodel or new home for next year, now is the perfect time to begin the design process. It gives us space to do the work right so that when construction begins, everything is ready to go.

This post is part of our “Questions We Get” series, real answers to common questions from homeowners planning a project. Next up: “How much will it cost?”