Our Approach to New Projects and Partners

Hey there, it’s me, Jeff, the founder of Old Mill Builders.Before I tell you how our team approaches a new project, I’d like to take a moment to explain why we work the way we do. Our goal is to focus on a limited number of projects. That’s so we can work closely with our clients. We want to know what makes them tick, what they love, what they don’t, their dreams, aspirations, their ideals and concerns. We want to hear it all. That’s so we can take a thoughtful and practical approach to building, to bring you a home that is exactly how you envisioned it.

I’m also passionate about balance – balance with nature, balance in life. In our company, we use renewable and alternative energies whenever possible, focusing on recycling materials, reclaimed wood, geothermal and solar technologies, just to name a few.

We also know that a home is so much more than four walls, a roof and some windows. It’s a sanctuary from the demands of everyday life, a place to build memories, maybe your forever home. And we’re looking for clients who also feel the same way. Partners, who seek a connection to that which is real and within. Homes don’t have to be big, or opulent, but they should always be unique. They should always reflect you.

My vision may not appeal to everyone, but my connection to projects and people is deeply personal, and each relationship is important to me and my team. We want to build the right home for you, tailored to fit your individual needs, and I’m excited about working with clients who share some of my views on life and the world.

The Building Process: Project Management & Planning

The Process of Planning the Home of Your Dreams…

Interested in working with us? Here’s how we would start.

Step 1: Consultation & Brainstorming

We begin with an initial conversation, whether you contact us by form or phone. Then, we schedule a meeting. This is to review the design, if you’ve already met with an architect. If not, we can discuss partnering with one of our many contacts in architecture and design. Most importantly, we want to hear what your vision is, what you dream about. Looking for a one-of-a-kind feature? This is where it starts. We can explore a wide variety of options. There are endless choices of materials and finishes. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

Step 2: Planning

Even though we love chatting and getting to know you, we still need to see what we’re working with. So, a site visit will be necessary. Then we can discuss logistics, as well as site-specific design elements. There are some questions we need to answer, that will help us to determine what steps need to be taken. The most important consideration is how will a client use the house? Then, we can make the right recommendations.

Step 3: Finalize Requirements

Once we have a feel for the site and the preliminary design, then we go into details, such as natural land features that can be highlighted, environmental concerns and energy-efficiency. We also discuss the possibility of using sustainable materials and designs, whenever possible. We can use sustainably harvested lumber, reclaimed materials, solar power and more!

Step 4: Collaboration

We might develop a schematic design, which is basically a series of sketches and renderings to show the possibilities to the client. Then, once we know what you’re looking for, we can proceed with more detailed drawings, or work with an architect of the clients choosing. A rough budget can be achieved at this point, and fine-tuned, as we proceed with the detailed design.

Step 5: Construction

Once drawings are complete, we will secure the necessary permits. That’s when we can begin construction and your masterpiece comes to life! The construction phase is usually the most hectic and we want to keep this a stress-free experience for our customers. So, at all stages, we are in constant contact with you. If we need to explore options, discuss opportunities or hurdles, or just ask questions, we will always inform you and make sure you approve of any changes. Homes are intended to enhance our clients lives, so we work extra hard to eliminate the pains that are so common in the building process. Since natural materials are often the repository of memories, emotions and an indefinable energy, we want to make sure that no negative experiences remain in the recesses of your walls. And the positive energy from working collaboratively can be felt in the home forever! That’s why we treat you like family, from the very beginning. And we build every home as if it were our own.

Why Choose Us? How we Differ from Other Builders…

Connecting with our clients | Old Mill Builders Conneticut

RESPECT

You cannot expect good work from those who don’t respect their clients, or the process. And it takes great skill to build the house of your dreams. At Old Mill Builders, we’re known for superior quality, and the best rapport with our clients. That’s because we take the necessary time to make sure our goals are aligned with yours. We don’t tell you how a home should be, we let your creativity and ideas unfold and nudge it along, if you need a little expert insight.

RELATIONSHIPS

The process of building can also be frustrating. Sometimes there are hurdles – weather, design, scheduling, team dynamics. Often, this is a result of a builder who doesn’t listen, or one who isn’t quite the right “fit” for your personality. Maybe they don’t share your vision? Maybe they’re too concerned with deadlines and cost-cutting that they fail to see that your home is the hub of your life. It’s important that a house reflects who you are and the lifestyle you want to lead.

RESPONSIBILITY

We are tasked with making your dream home a reality and we take that very seriously. Not only do we have the experience and expertise to manage all the complexities of construction, we approach every problem with a level-headed, creative and ‘can-do’ attitude! More importantly, we find solutions that keep stress levels down, so it doesn’t sabotage what can be a rather fun process.

THINGS WE WON’T DO:

Not return phone calls – You can expect prompt and regular communication from Old Mill Builders.

Poor planning/Nobody on the job – We know how to manage a project efficiently and effectively, so every precious moment is spent getting your new home ready for you.

Not listening to your needs – Some builders only want to do it the way they are used to, but our team never tells you what to do. We give you options and advice and we look to you to make the final decision.

It starts with us having coffee together… or an over-the-phone meeting if that’s not possible. Contact us today to see how we can begin building the custom home you’ve always wanted.