Before embarking on a new home design or renovation, take the time to explore and refine your vision from both practical and creative perspectives.

Begin by carefully considering your site and its environment. Spend time on your property throughout the seasons to observe how light and temperature change over the year, noting the need for shade in summer and sunlight in winter. Consider the materials you choose and how they blend with your surroundings—whether you're aiming for a bold contrast or a seamless integration with nature.

Simultaneously, enter the abstract stage of your design process. Reflect not only on functionality but also on the emotions and experiences you want your space to evoke. Gather inspiration from art, architecture, and materials that resonate with your lifestyle. Think about colors that shape the atmosphere, textures that bring warmth, and details that mirror your personality. This critical phase is an opportunity to internalize your dreams, needs, and aspirations, laying the foundation for a design that truly reflects who you are.

Gillan Design provides full-service home design and renovation, guiding projects from concept to construction with a focus on thoughtful planning, efficiency, and sustainability.

Site Planning & Regulations

A well-designed home starts with understanding the property. A site plan is created to map out key elements like buildings, driveways, drainage, grading, and utilities while ensuring compliance with local zoning and regulations. If a minor variance is needed, support is provided for applications, Committee of Adjustment meetings, and approval requirements.

Design Development

The early design phase focuses on defining the flow, function, and aesthetics of a space—the “paper napkin stage.” This is where ideas take shape, incorporating inspirations that reflect lifestyle and sustainable choices where possible.

Technical Drawings & Visualization

Once the vision is clear, a working drawing package is prepared—a set of detailed technical plans that guide the construction process with precision and clarity. These include:

✔ Foundation & Floor Plans
✔ Elevations & Cross Sections
✔ Door, Window & Millwork Layouts
✔ Electrical & Lighting Plans
✔ 3D Renderings for a realistic preview of the final design

With a balance of creativity and technical expertise, Gillan Design ensures a seamless process from the first sketch to the final build.

A well-executed design depends on skilled trades and careful planning. Once construction begins, the contractor takes the lead in managing the build, ensuring the project stays on track. In the early stages, support is available to help with coordination and communication, ensuring a smooth transition from design to construction.

Bringing a design to life is more than just building; it’s about creating a shared understanding between the homeowner and construction team. With clear expectations and a well-prepared plan, the process moves forward efficiently, resulting in a seamless path from concept to completion.

Turning your design into reality is all about working alongside the construction team, ensuring things align naturally. With good, reliable trades and open communication, the process flows smoothly, with everyone doing their part to bring the vision to life.