A Builder's View

Planning to Stick With Your Project Budget

Posted by Tim McDonald

Jan 16, 2014 8:30:00 AM

The budget is a critical component to any project planning effort.  The lack in ability to control expenses will most likely lead to cost overruns and, also, other delays, which could easily have a negative impact on the overall outcome of the project.  Without proper planning upfront, you could be venturing into an ugly money pit.  It is critical to understand the basics of effective budgeting so that you can actively work together with your project team to ensure the project is on time and on budget.

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Topics: Best Practices, Planning, Budgeting

Key Elements for Sound Project Planning

Posted by Tim McDonald

Jan 9, 2014 8:00:00 AM

We believe effective planning allows projects, big and small, to progress through each phase on more solid ground.  How?  The planning process makes it possible for project stakeholders to apply their specific expertise to flesh out an approach that meets the required scope.  

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Topics: Best Practices, Planning, value engineering

Reasons to Kick Off the New Year Building Community Relations

Posted by Tim McDonald

Dec 20, 2013 7:10:00 AM

By nature, we are social beings. It is important for us to be surrounded by people in order to feel happy, safe and secure.  Even when we are around family and friends, it is not enough.  In order for us to thrive, we need to engage with our local community. 

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Topics: Best Practices, community relations, social responsibility

Key Elements for Planning and Building Your Sustainable Winery

Posted by Tim McDonald

Sep 12, 2013 12:30:00 PM

It is not a secret that the Napa Valley is an attraction for wine lovers from around the world.  While the region is a premier destination for international travelers, the area’s businesses, government agencies, and residents are steadfast in their commitment to their local communities.  One of the areas of particular importance is maintaining the integrity of the Valley’s picturesque environment and lush landscape.

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Topics: Sustainable Construction, Winery Construction

Timing is Everything When Developing a Winery Construction Schedule

Posted by Tim McDonald

Aug 15, 2013 12:13:00 PM

Similar to a musical composition, winemaking has a timing and tempo.  When planning for a new winery facility or an addition, a builder needs to carefully consider a winery’s rhythm while developing a construction schedule to meet the project’s envisioned scope of work. This post discusses areas to consider when planning a winning winery project schedule and construction activity sequence.

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Topics: Best Practices, Construction Schedule, Winery Construction, Sequencing

7 Areas to Consider For Urban Custom Home Construction

Posted by Tim McDonald

Jun 19, 2013 10:05:00 AM

In most major cities, there is a shortage of land for new construction.  As a result, high-rise buildings supply the demand for residential spaces.  If you find yourself wanting to reside in an urban setting and desire a dwelling with high-end custom amenities, it is a good idea to find a team with the experience to successfully realize your city lifestyle. Begin your search with an understanding that urban custom home construction in confined spaces requires careful planning.

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Topics: Best Practices, Custom Homes, Urban Construction

8 Steps to Optimize Your Next Project With Creative Value Engineering

Posted by Tim McDonald

May 23, 2013 9:14:00 AM

If you are looking to get the most out of your next project, make sure you find a team of professionals who energetically engage in creative value engineering methods.  This is not a crazy marketing gimmick; it is a reliable practice that involves a blend of functional problem solving and cost assessment.

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Topics: Best Practices, team collaboration, value engineering