The Process.

Design Box process, where your vision for a harmonious living space becomes a reality. Crafting your dream ADU is an exciting journey, and we're here to make it seamless and rewarding. At Design Box, we believe in a meticulous and collaborative approach that ensures every step of the process is tailored to your unique needs. From the first spark of inspiration to the final touch, our process is designed to deliver an ADU that encapsulates your style, elevates your lifestyle, and enhances your property. Explore the stages below to see how we transform your ADU aspirations into an exceptional reality.

Navigating the Process:
Your Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you're exploring a Design Box for supplemental income, expanding your living space, or embracing multi-generational living, our comprehensive step-by-step approach guarantees that you're well-informed at every stage of the journey. From the initial design and permitting phase to construction and the final finishing touches, we're with you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless experience. Contact us today to discuss your project, and let's embark on this exciting timeline together.

Accessibility Assessment - Site Visit (1-2 Weeks) - $2,200

  1. On-Site Property Assessment:

    • Our team will conduct a thorough on-site evaluation to gauge property accessibility and specific requirements.

  2. Consultation with Your Dedicated Sales Representative:

    • A dedicated sales expert will engage in a comprehensive discussion with you to understand your unique needs and objectives.

  3. Design Box Unit Selection and Pricing:

    • We'll assist you in selecting the ideal Design Box unit and provide a detailed cost breakdown, including customization options.

  4. Conceptual Design Proposal and Preliminary Budget Estimation:

    • Simultaneously, we will present a conceptual design proposal tailored to your vision, along with a preliminary budget estimate covering shipping, crane services, and on-site assembly.

  5. Route Survey (if required):

    • In cases where a route survey is necessary for transport logistics, we will provide a customized quote tailored to your specific project requirements.

This reconfigured process is designed for a more seamless and efficient experience, ensuring that you receive all the necessary information to make informed decisions at each stage.

01. Initial Consultation

Conceptual Design Package (4-5 weeks) - Pricing varies based on project complexity

Once the Accessibility Assessment phase is completed, and you've committed to the Conceptual Design phase, we offer a comprehensive 3D rendering package. This package vividly visualizes your Design Box unit with your selected foundation on your property.

Here's an overview of what's included in this package:

  • Design Brief Consultation with Our Expert Design Team:

    • We'll engage in a detailed discussion covering placement, orientation, foundation choices, styling preferences, budget considerations, and project objectives.

  • Zoning Verification:

    • Our team will conduct zoning verification to ensure your project aligns with local regulations and requirements.

  • 3D Render Package:

    • You'll receive an immersive 3D render package that brings your project to life visually.

  • Revision (1 included):

    • We provide one revision opportunity to ensure the design perfectly matches your vision.

  • Drawings and Engineering Proposal:

    • Upon completion of the Conceptual Design phase, we'll present you with detailed drawings and an engineering proposal, setting the stage for Step 3 of your project.

Pricing for the Conceptual Design package may vary depending on the complexity of your specific project.

02. Design Customization

Architectural and Engineering Package (Price varies, starting at $10,000+ and varies by project and location) (6-8 weeks)

Upon your commitment to the Design and Engineering Proposal presented in Step 2, we embark on the creation of architectural and engineered set drawings necessary for your building permit submission. Here's an outline of the deliverables included in this phase:

  • Development Permit (DP) Drawing Package:

    • This package comprises site plans, floorplans, elevations, sections, and the initial foundation design.

  • Architectural Drafts:

    • We'll provide you with the first draft of your architectural set of drawings, tailored to your project's unique requirements.

Please note that the specific scopes of engineering services required may vary based on local jurisdictional regulations. Potential engineering components include:

  • Structural Foundation Design.

  • Site-specific Engineer Stamp for the Honomobo Model.

  • Energy Calculations.

  • Civil Engineering.

  • Septic Design.

  • Soil Report.

  • Flood Zone Report.

  • State Approval of Design Box Plans.

The pricing for this comprehensive Architectural and Engineering package starts at $10,000 but may fluctuate based on the intricacies and location of your project.

03. Drawings and Engineering

Timeline - TBD

State Review:
The state review process encompasses an examination of the legal and regulatory framework within which modular home manufacturers must operate within a particular state. These regulations can vary significantly from one state to another, and in some cases, certain states may impose substantial costs such as registration fees and bonds for each individual project.

Permit Submittals:
After finalizing all architectural, engineering, and certification documentation, we consolidate all drawings and relevant documents, making them ready for submission to your local building officials for their review and subsequent approval as part of the Building Permit application process.

04. Review and Approvals

Initiation of Manufacturing and Commencement of Site Work (40% Payment)

The 40% Manufacturing Down Payment is required 75 days before the manufacturing commencement date. This advance payment secures your position in the upcoming production schedule and locks in your pricing.

For added convenience, the 40% Manufacturing Down Payment can also be submitted prior to reaching Step 5, ensuring your reserved build spot and price guarantee.

During this phase, Design Box initiates the procurement of long lead items, including HVAC systems, windows, steel components, and appliances. Concurrently, your local contractor should commence site preparation and foundation work to facilitate a smooth transition into the manufacturing stage.

Production of your Design Box unit officially commences, tailored to your designated build spot.

05. Site Work Starts

30% Manufacturing Progress Payment - Structural Frame Completion

The 30% manufacturing progress payment is to be remitted upon the successful completion of the structural frame and exterior painting phase, just before the initiation of module complexing and the rough-in of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.

06. Completed Structural Frame

Upon the conclusion of the Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing rough-in, the remaining 30% payment for your Design Box becomes due. This installment covers the insulation, drywall, painting, and all interior finishing touches. Additionally, it includes the assembly of site materials necessary to seamlessly integrate your Design Box into its designated location.

Please note that 10% of this final payment will be temporarily held in a separate bank account. It will be released after a successful walkthrough sign-off by the customer following the onsite installation, deducting any identified deficiencies.

07. Final Progress Payment

Revised Pricing Confirmation (30 Days Prior):

  • Approximately 30 days before your scheduled shipping date, we will re-evaluate and provide updated pricing for shipping, crane services, and assembly.

  • Payment Due (15 Days Prior):

    • Your payment is required 15 days before the scheduled shipping date to ensure a smooth process.

  • Mandatory Site Visit:

    • A crucial step involves our Honomobo Project Manager conducting a site visit alongside your contractor. This site visit involves a fee of $1,800.

  • Site Readiness Confirmation:

    • Upon confirming that your site is prepared to receive your Honomobo, we proceed to coordinate crane bookings, arrange for transport trucks, and dispatch our Honomobo assembly team.

  • Onsite Assembly:

    • The Honomobo Assembly Team collaborates with the Crane Operator to safely position and assemble the individual modules on the foundation. This typically takes approximately 7 days, though the duration may vary depending on the Honomobo model and project scope.

  • Utilities Connection:

    • After the modules are securely in place and welded to the foundation, the General Contractor proceeds to connect all necessary site utilities to the home.

08. Shipping and Assembly

Your contractor takes charge of finishing touches like decks, railings, stairs, and the main floor foundation once your Honomobo is securely installed on the foundation. After these essential components are in place, we conduct a final walkthrough to ensure everything meets your satisfaction, and then we hand over the keys to your new space.

Move into Your ADU:

Welcome home to your new ADU! With the completion of your Design Box and its surrounding features, you're ready to embrace a comfortable and modern living experience. Your dedicated space awaits, providing convenience and style in one compact package. Whether you plan to use it as a cozy retreat, a functional workspace, or an additional dwelling unit, your Design Box is primed for a seamless move-in experience. Enjoy the benefits of contemporary design, energy efficiency, and quality construction in your very own Design Box ADU.

09. Completion

FAQs

  • An ADU can be used for a variety of purposes, including extra living space for family members, a source of rental income, a home office or workspace, a vacation home, or storage space.

  • Yes, in most cases you will need a building permit to build an ADU. You may also need other approvals, such as a zoning permit or a planning permit, depending on your local regulations.

  • Zoning requirements for ADUs vary depending on the jurisdiction. Some common requirements include maximum size, setbacks from property lines, and parking requirements.

  • The cost of building an ADU can vary depending on factors such as the size, location, and materials used. On average, the cost can range from $100,000 to $300,000 or more.

Talk to us.