A Nation to Build a Cottage

About a week ago we posted an insightful reflection from one of our clients Kitty. Upon being asked the question “what did you learn that was totally unexpected?” she matter-of-factly and humorously responded “So…Many…People.” Kitty was commenting on all she had seen before construction started and her observation continues to be right on when you have building permits in hand, ready to break ground.

The list below runs through each element of a construction project requiring a specific professional with a specific type of expertise. It’s a master list of trade professionals that will, directly or indirectly, be involved in a cottage construction project. Though it is small, the truth is it takes a nation to build a cottage. It’s a funny thought, and illustrates a couple interesting points about the nature of construction, irrespective of the size you are building.

First, the fundamentals of the planning process and needed expertise is not all that dissimilar between a 300 unit high rise tower and a 300 square foot backyard cottage. It almost takes the same number of trades to build a cottage as it does to build a high rise.

Second, the ultimate success of any construction project, 300 units or 300 square feet, might be most simply described as the product of intelligently coordinated teamwork between a ton of professionals. At New Avenue we see our primary job as orchestrating effective teamwork between all these professionals.

1. Foundation
2. Plumber
3. Electrician
4. Termit Pre-treatment
5. Framer and rough carpentry
6. Windows
7. Roofer
8. HVAC – heating and cooling
9. Siding type
10. Low voltage – stereo systems
11. Insulation
12. Drywall
13. Millwork
14. Stair railing
15. Finish carpentry
16. Painter
17. Cabinets
18. Countertops
19. Tile
20. Hardwood flooring
21. Appliances
22. Light fixtures
23. Mirrors and shower enclosures
24. Rough cleaner
25. Finish cleaner
26. Prep & detail
27. Garage doors
28. Grading
29. Fencing
30. Landscaping