FAQs
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
At Mericle Design + Build, we believe a successful renovation starts with clear communication, thoughtful planning, and a transparent process. Our goal is to make the entire experience as seamless and stress-free as possible. 1. Initial Consultation: We start with a quick conversation to understand your project goals, vision, budget, and ideal timeline. 2. On-Site Walkthrough: We schedule a visit to your home to evaluate the space, discuss design ideas, take measurements, and better understand the scope of work. 3. Detailed Estimate & Proposal: We provide a clear, itemized proposal outlining the scope of work, estimated costs, material allowances, and project expectations. 4. Design & Material Selections: We help guide you through choosing materials, finishes, fixtures, and other details to ensure everything aligns with your vision and budget. 5. Construction & Project Management: Once everything is approved, we coordinate our skilled tradespeople, manage scheduling, oversee the work, and provide regular updates throughout construction. 6. Final Walkthrough: Upon completion, we walk through the finished project together to ensure everything meets your expectations. We pride ourselves on being responsive, transparent, and hands-on from the first conversation through the final walkthrough. Whether you're updating a bathroom, remodeling a kitchen, or renovating your entire home, our focus is delivering quality craftsmanship and an experience you can feel confident in.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I hold a degree in Business Intelligence & Analytics and am a licensed General Contractor (Class E) with the City of Chicago. My professional background includes extensive experience in the construction industry, with a strong focus on project planning, budgeting, operations, and customer relationships. At Mericle Design + Build, I combine that background with hands-on project management, coordinating experienced tradespeople and overseeing residential renovation projects from initial consultation through completion. We work with skilled, qualified subcontractors, including licensed professionals for specialized trades such as plumbing and electrical. My approach emphasizes attention to detail, transparent communication, efficient project management, and delivering high-quality results that homeowners can feel confident in.
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
My biggest piece of advice is to look beyond the lowest price and focus on communication, transparency, and trust. Renovating your home is a significant investment, and choosing the right contractor can make all the difference. Before hiring a contractor, I recommend asking a few important questions: Are they properly licensed and insured? Make sure they have the appropriate credentials and use qualified tradespeople. Is the estimate detailed and transparent? A good proposal should clearly outline the scope of work, materials, allowances, and what's included or excluded. How will the project be managed? Understand who will oversee the work, coordinate subcontractors, and keep you updated throughout construction. How are unexpected issues handled? Renovations can uncover surprises, especially in older Chicago homes. Make sure there's a clear process for addressing unforeseen conditions and additional costs. Do you feel comfortable communicating with them? Your contractor will be working in your home, sometimes for weeks or months. Responsiveness and professionalism matter. At Mericle Design + Build, we believe homeowners deserve straightforward pricing, honest expectations, quality craftsmanship, and a contractor who genuinely cares about the finished product. Ultimately, the right contractor isn't always the cheapest. It's the one you trust to treat your home, budget, and vision as if they were their own.