FAQs

The design + build model delivers a seamless, high-level process by bringing design and construction under one roof. Unlike the traditional architect bid model—where an architect designs and contractors compete to build—design + build fosters early collaboration and alignment. This ensures the design matches the budget and schedule, reducing costly surprises and delays.

With a single team handling every phase, communication stays sharp, efficiency stays high, and execution stays on point. Accountability is streamlined, meaning fewer gaps and more precision, quality, and care throughout the project.

Yet, design + build doesn’t replace the architect model—it enhances it. Through an Iterative Design Process (IDP), we integrate seamlessly with architects and interior designers, fostering a collaborative loop that refines ideas, maintains feasibility, and elevates the end product. We love partnering with design professionals who share our commitment to quality and detail.

This approach reflects a commitment to doing things right—the first time. It’s an investment in a smoother, more refined experience, free from the friction of managing multiple parties. The result? Projects delivered on time, on budget, and at a standard that doesn’t just meet expectations but raises the bar.  

Read a fun article that Emily wrote on the DB model: https://www.kellowconstruction.com/blog/what-is-a-design-build-company

The design + build model is a budget-first process, and partnering with us is an investment. To ensure we’re the right fit, we start with an intro call with all key decision-makers. This call helps us align on your project scope, investment goals, and what you’re looking for in a building partner. You can schedule a consultation here.

On the call, we’ll cover project details, timeline, and investment range (and if you don’t have one, we’ll help define it). We’ll also walk you through our process and approach.

The goal? To see if our styles and expectations align. If it feels right for everyone, the next step is a home consultation. We ask that all major decision-makers be present for both the call and the consultation.

This first call is truly a gut check, a chance to make sure we’re a strong match before moving forward.

While we’re known for comprehensive, large-scale projects, we also have a Small Project Department for focused work like single bathrooms, decks, doors and windows, structural repairs, and more.

We approach small projects with the same design + build precision: ensuring all design details are locked in before finalizing costs and starting construction. The difference? Smaller projects often move through our process more quickly and can be slotted into our schedule between larger builds.

Big or small, the attention to detail stays the same.

Building an ADU is a meaningful—and substantial—investment. An attached ADU is like adding a condo unit to your property, while a detached ADU is akin to building a small home. Both require detailed design, careful planning, and competent builders, all of which add up to a significant investment.

We’ve built many ADUs over the years and love the unique challenges they bring. But due to the compact scale, the cost per square foot tends to be high. For an attached ADU within an existing, compliant footprint, you should budget at least $250k. For a ground-up detached unit, plan for a minimum investment of $500k.

California continues to make strides in making ADU development more accessible, so keep an eye on evolving regulations and potential cost savings. We’re here to help navigate the process and deliver an ADU that’s worth every penny.

We’d love to schedule a call to see if we’re the right fit for your project, and we appreciate you considering us. Please submit your form and upload your plans here.  Once you’ve submitted, you can schedule a call right away. If it feels like a match, we’ll hit the ground running.

When comparing us to other builders, it’s worth considering what sets us apart. Because we offer in-house design services, we can take over design construction admin work from your architect, if needed. Our estimates reflect a complete, all-in number that captures every detail—right down to cabinet hardware and paint colors.

Be wary of builders who offer low-ball estimates just to win the job, then shift responsibility for thousands of details to your design team. That’s a recipe for surprise costs and frustration.

Another key difference: we offer a fixed-price contract, not a cost-plus model. In our preconstruction phase, we work closely with your design team to finalize every detail, gather input from trade partners, and deliver a clear, final cost. Our goal is to give you an honest look at your total investment while minimizing scope creep that could turn your vision into a headache.

If this approach resonates, let’s talk. We’re here to deliver a smooth, high-quality experience grounded in integrity, organization, and service.

We specialize in delivering exceptional communication, care, and craftsmanship to both residential and commercial projects. While our primary focus is on remodels and additions, we’re always excited to take on ground-up construction.

Our production team is wood-minded—skilled in everything from framing to finish—and dedicated to bringing your vision to life with precision and quality.

It depends on the building, the HOA, the bylaws, and the community harmony or acrimony. If you can let us know what condo association you’re in, we can work with you to determine if it’s something we can help with.

Thank you, that’s nice of you to say! If you haven’t already, please go here and schedule a consultation—that’s the first step in our process. If you’ve already done this, the next step will be to book your initial call. If it seems like a good fit, we would book a site visit and take it from there. You can read about our process here. Our roadmap is a great visual and super helpful for potential clients to see how we work. You can always call or email the office at 805-225-3310 or office@kellowconstruction.com.

We love referrals! We are primarily referral based.  Thank you for trusting us with your people.  What an honor.