Forward Design Build Remodel

Forward Design Build in Ann Arbor MI is dedicated to creating a seamless and enjoyable remodeling experience. Our passion is to turn your vision into a functional and aesthetically pleasing design. Our proven process, starting from the initial consultation to the long-term warranty, ensures consistent delivery of high-quality results. Forward Design Build ensures every phase of the process is transparent and hassle-free. Contact us today to discuss your needs!

Forward Design Build Remodel has been remodelling houses around Ann Arbor for more than twenty-five years. Jef Forward founded the firm out of a joint interest in architecture and building, and settled on design-build specifically so that homeowners would deal with one team from first sketch to final punch list.

The staff list runs to roughly forty-five people, organised into consulting, design, build and service teams. That includes architectural designers, cabinet specialists, an estimator, purchasing, project managers, lead carpenters, a lead painter, apprentices and a warranty manager. Trade partners and suppliers are brought in around that core rather than the whole job being subcontracted out.

Project types cover whole-home remodels, kitchens, bathrooms, additions, custom homes and interior furnishing. The firm splits its remodelling into two programmes: Reimagine for larger reworkings and Rekindle for more contained projects. Two unusual extras sit alongside that: Terra Knoll, a rental property clients can stay in while their own house is under construction, and an event space.

Forward publishes its budget bands openly, which is rare in this trade. A custom primary suite bathroom is quoted at roughly $75,000 to $200,000. A custom kitchen, once cabinets, counters, flooring, appliance relocation and wall changes are in scope, runs $200,000 to $500,000. Additions and whole-home remodels start around $500,000 and can pass $1 million.

Permitting is handled in-house. The team works through the City of Ann Arbor Planning and Development Department review and building permit process as part of the design-build service, and notes that many Ann Arbor houses are historic builds where blending original character with modern function drives the design.

Professional affiliations include the National Association of the Remodeling Industry’s Southeast Michigan chapter, the National Association of Home Builders, and the Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Ann Arbor. Staff hold Certified Graduate Remodeler and Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist credentials, and one of the project managers is Passive House Builder certified through Phius. The firm also participates in GuildQuality customer satisfaction surveying.

The office is at 8110 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, on (734) 761-8403. Service runs to Ann Arbor, Dexter, Pinckney, Plymouth, Saline, Chelsea and Scio. Community support goes to Dawn Farm, the Humane Society of Huron Valley and Food Gatherers, among others.