Your September knockdown roadmap: The final weeks before demo day
September brings a shift - a transition from the carefree, sun-soaked days of summer to the more structured pace of fall. For many, it’s a time to say goodbye to the past and prepare for a new beginning. On Long Beach Island, the change is palpable as construction vehicles start to line the streets, clearing the way for future homes. For those with knockdowns on the horizon, it’s both an exciting and emotional time, as the keys to the old home are handed over, making space for something new.
If you're counting down the days until handoff and demo, here's your roadmap to what you can expect over the next 3-4 weeks leading up to the big day. Based on your type and scope of project, the process may look slightly different - here I’ve outlined the roadmap for working with a builder who has an in-house design team. I work with a few builders on the island to support them and their homeowners during the selection process. This is how we approach your new build:
Confirm your floor plans
By now, your floor plans should be almost 100% confirmed. This is the last step to ensure that the design and layout of your new home align with your vision. While small tweaks may still happen during the framing stage, most everything on the plan should be finalized well before demolition begins.
Your role:
Final review: Thoroughly review your floor plans one last time to ensure every space meets your functional needs and reflects your design preferences.
Confirm layout: Double-check the room sizes, flow, and layout to make sure it works with your lifestyle.
Designer’s role:
Final adjustments: Your designer will ensure that every detail of the floor plan aligns with your aesthetic and functional needs. They’ll finalize all design elements, confirming that the plans are ready for execution.
Builder’s role:
Verify feasibility: The builder will do a final check to confirm that everything in the floor plan is executable as planned. They will ensure that structural elements are set and that the design will work within the site’s conditions.
Begin first round of selections
Most builders on the island have a set process for how you go about selections. Typically, there’s the “round 1” of selections that are needed ahead of demo: siding color and corner treatment, windows, exterior doors, stone and/or board and batten, railings, decking, plumbing fixtures, etc.
During this time period, you’ll likely be asked to also start selecting flooring, cabinetry, tile, and lighting. Phase 1 is about locking in the foundation of your home’s look and feel. These decisions should be confirmed before pilings are driven and construction begins.
Your role:
Confirm key selections: Work closely with your designer to choose materials like flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and any significant exterior elements. Ensure these selections reflect your overall style. Be sure to allocate enough time for this, as typically you and your designer are traveling to local vendors for selections.
Designer’s role:
Curate materials (and a sense of calm): Your designer will guide you through the selection process, offering suggestions that fit your vision and lifestyle. They’ll ensure that everything is cohesive and on-brand for your new home - and within your allowance. Usually this looks like taking you to key vendors that the builder works with. We’ll attend meetings at the cabinetry manufacturer, the tile store, the countertop slab yard, and the plumbing fixtures story.
Order key items: Once selections are finalized, the designer and builder will place orders for the materials with longer lead times to avoid delays.
Builder’s role:
Confirm availability and delivery timelines: The builder will confirm the availability of your selected materials and make sure they are scheduled for timely delivery to avoid project delays. They’ll also guide you through the exact
Preparing for Demo Day
As demo day draws near, you’ll need to ensure everything is set for a smooth transition. The next few weeks are about clearing the site, finalizing logistical details, and preparing yourself emotionally for the change.
Your role:
Clear the site: Remove any personal belongings or furniture. If there’s anything to salvage or preserve, make sure it’s properly protected.
Document the space: Take photos or videos of the current home. These will serve as a reference point for the transformation ahead and are a great way to preserve memories of the old space.
Designer’s role:
Stay calm: A great designer will become an integral part of your build process, and that means being together to manage high emotions, gently guide towards decisions, and be a steadfast calming energy in the chaos.
Builder’s role:
Obtain demolition permits: Your builder will secure the necessary demolition permits, including utility disconnections (water, gas, electricity) required for the demo to begin.
Ensure site readiness: The builder will confirm that the site is ready for demolition, including ensuring that safety measures are in place and that all permits are in order.
Looking ahead: The excitement of a new beginning
The next 3-4 weeks are essential in ensuring everything is in place before the demolition begins. By finalizing your floor plans, confirming key material selections, and preparing the site, you’re setting up a smooth transition into the construction phase.
Although saying goodbye to your old home can be emotional, the next few months will bring exciting new beginnings. Your dream home is starting to take shape, and with these final preparations, you’ll be ready for demo day - and the exciting journey ahead.