Urban Front
Things to do before construction
In the symphony of dreams and blueprints that culminate in the creation of our abodes, the professional bodies behind the scenes play a pivotal role in transforming bricks and mortar into the realms of comfort, functionality, and aesthetic allure.
From the very start, when you’re figuring out how much you can spend (budgeting) and where you want to live (location selection), to the nitty-gritty details like keeping your home cozy and energy-efficient, we’ve got you covered. Each choice you make, whether it’s about saving money, finding the right spot, or making your home eco-friendly, is like a note in the melody of your dream home. Architects, designers, and builders are experts who help turn your ideas into a home that’s not just a place to live but a space that truly suits you. They bring in their know-how to make sure everything fits together perfectly, just like the instruments in an orchestra.
Let’s delve into the essential aspects of building your dream home from the perspective of professionals. It’s more than just constructing walls and placing bricks; it’s about crafting a living space where each decision plays a part in the harmonious soundtrack of your life.
1. Budgeting and Financing
Navigating the path of designing a beautiful home often comes with the temptation to indulge in extravagant dreams that may not align with our financial reality. This can lead to unnecessary expenses and numerous modifications during construction, transforming our envisioned dream home into something unintended. It is crucial to recognize that the first and foremost step in the home design process is understanding and establishing a realistic budget. By doing so, we lay the foundation for a home that not only mirrors our aspirations but also remains within our financial means. Professionals, with their extensive knowledge in design intricacies, become invaluable allies in this endeavor. By openly sharing our budget constraints with them, we open the door to a collaborative effort where they can propose a well-thought-out plan. This collaborative approach allows for the construction of a home that not only aligns with our dreams but also strategically addresses potential future needs or upgrades. With a carefully considered budget and professional guidance, we pave the way for a home that is both aesthetically pleasing and financially sound.
Concealing the budget from professionals during the home design process can have detrimental effects on the envisioned outcome. It creates an environment of uncertainty where designers are forced to make assumptions about financial constraints, potentially resulting in a design that exceeds the client’s comfort zone. Avoiding collaboration with professional bodies can lead clients down a perilous path, especially when dealing with non-professional contractors. These contractors may initially present an enticing model within a specified budget, only to continually request additional funds as the project progresses. The lack of a transparent and agreed-upon budget beforehand can plunge clients into a never-ending cycle of unexpected expenses. To avert such situations, it is imperative for clients to openly communicate their budget constraints with professionals, enabling a realistic and well-planned design that aligns with both their dreams and financial capabilities. This approach ensures a smoother construction process with no unwelcome surprises or escalating costs.
2. Location, time, and future
Selecting the right location for your home is a decision that goes beyond the immediate surroundings; it’s an investment in the future. Aligarh, India, a city marked by dynamic changes, demands careful consideration. While embracing local traditions and environmental aspects is crucial, the evolving dynamics of Aligarh necessitate foresight. Opting for a design that resonates with the current scenario while anticipating future modifications is key. Professionals bring a valuable perspective to this process, helping you integrate local conditions seamlessly while strategically planning for future adaptations. In a place like Aligarh, where changes are constant, a home designed with both present and future needs in mind ensures that your investment remains relevant and resilient over the years. With the guidance of professionals, you can strike a balance between tradition and innovation, creating a home that stands the test of time amidst Aligarh’s evolving landscape.
3. design & layout and outdoor spaces
Collaborating with an experienced architect or designer is a cornerstone in transforming a house into a harmonious and functional living space. Their expertise ensures not only an aesthetically pleasing design but also a layout that aligns with the practical aspects of daily life. Careful consideration is given to the number and sizes of rooms, fostering a balanced and efficient flow throughout the house. This collaborative effort ensures that each square foot is optimized for utility and comfort, creating a home that is not only visually appealing but also a joy to live in.
Beyond the confines of the four walls, the outdoor spaces surrounding a home play a pivotal role in enhancing the overall living experience. Strategic planning for landscaping and outdoor living areas transforms the surroundings into an extension of the home. Thoughtful design elements bring forth an outdoor oasis, be it a serene garden, a cozy patio, or a vibrant play area. This integration of indoor and outdoor living enriches the homeowner’s lifestyle, providing spaces for relaxation, entertainment, and play. As professionals guide this aspect of home construction, they ensure that the external environment complements the internal design, creating a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors.
4. Permits, contractor, and materials
Selecting the right team of contractors and builders is the bedrock of a successful home construction project. Opting for reputable professionals with a proven track record ensures that your vision is executed with precision and reliability. It is prudent to gather multiple quotes, allowing you to compare costs and services, and checking references provides insights into the contractor’s reliability and craftsmanship. The collaboration with skilled contractors and builders not only safeguards against potential pitfalls but also guarantees that your dream home is brought to life by a team with a history of successful and satisfied clients.
In the burgeoning construction landscape of cities like Aligarh, India, where dreams of a new home are nurtured, caution is paramount. While many builders and contractors initially entice with seemingly affordable prices, some engage in unethical practices that can lead to financial burdens and project delays. Instances of overlooking crucial elements, substituting quality materials with cheaper alternatives, and halting construction midway as a form of pressure tactics are unfortunately not uncommon. Some unscrupulous builders may also limit the workforce or deliberately prolong project timelines, causing frustration and inconvenience for homeowners.
In such scenarios, it becomes evident that hiring a professional builder with a reputation for integrity and transparency is imperative. Professionals not only provide accurate project estimates but also prioritize open communication, ensuring that clients are informed about every aspect of the construction process. By collaborating with reputable builders, homeowners in Aligarh can safeguard themselves against these unscrupulous practices. A professional’s commitment to quality, adherence to timelines, and ethical conduct can make the home construction journey a more reliable and satisfying experience, ensuring that the dream home becomes a reality without the shadows of regret or financial stress.
Navigating the bureaucratic landscape of permits and regulations is a critical step in the construction journey. Thorough research and obtaining all necessary permits are non-negotiable aspects to ensure a smooth and legal construction process. Compliance with local building codes and regulations is imperative, as it not only avoids legal complications but also guarantees that your home meets safety and quality standards. Professionals in the field are well-versed in the intricacies of local regulations, making them valuable allies in securing the required permits and ensuring that every aspect of the construction adheres to the governing rules, providing peace of mind for the homeowner.
5. MEP & interior designing
Efficiently harnessing and conserving energy is not just a contemporary trend; it’s a responsible approach to building a sustainable home. Integrating energy-efficient design elements plays a pivotal role in this endeavor. This includes employing proper insulation techniques, opting for energy-efficient windows that regulate temperature, and implementing high-efficiency HVAC systems. By embracing these practices, homeowners not only contribute to environmental preservation but also enjoy long-term cost savings through reduced energy consumption.
Home should be a sanctuary, and ensuring the safety and security of its occupants is paramount. Prioritizing safety features involves incorporating fire-resistant materials, installing smoke detectors, and fortifying windows and doors. Complementing these measures, the installation of a reliable security system adds an extra layer of protection. This blend of precautionary measures not only safeguards against unforeseen emergencies but also provides peace of mind, fostering a sense of well-being within the home.
A well-designed home considers the practical aspects of daily living, including plumbing, electrical wiring, and other utility needs. Strategic planning for the placement of outlets, switches, and lighting fixtures enhances functionality while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing environment. By anticipating and accommodating these essential elements, homeowners ensure a seamless and convenient living experience, where utility infrastructure seamlessly integrates with the overall design.
The interior of a home is its personality, a reflection of the residents’ tastes and preferences. Delving into interior finishes involves thoughtful decisions about flooring, paint colors, and other aesthetic elements. Simultaneously, planning for sufficient storage space ensures that the home not only looks appealing but also functions efficiently. Balancing style with practicality, homeowners create a living space that is not only visually pleasing but also tailored to meet their daily needs.
At Urban Front, your trusted architectural hub nestled in the heart of Aligarh. Located at Alpine Apartments, near FM Tower, our office stands as a beacon of innovative design and cutting-edge services. Specializing in architectural services and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) solutions, we take pride in transforming visions into tangible structures. At Urban Front, we go beyond conventional boundaries, incorporating sustainable practices such as solar plant integration into our designs, aligning with modern eco-friendly initiatives. Our commitment extends to delivering a holistic experience, utilizing advanced 3D modeling techniques to provide a vivid preview of your dream space before construction begins. With Urban Front, embark on a journey where architectural excellence meets technological innovation, shaping the future of living spaces in Aligarh.
6. Cost of Civil Work
In Aligarh, India, civil work accounts for a significant portion of the total cost of building a house. The cost of civil work includes all the expenses related to the foundation, plinth, wall, roof, boundary wall, parapet wall, plastering, flooring, and brickwork. This cost also includes labour costs, contractor fees, and shuttering fees. On average, the cost of civil work for constructing a house in India ranges from Rs. 800 to Rs. 1,000 per square foot. However, this cost can vary depending on the location, soil conditions, and other factors that impact construction costs.
7. Cost of Finishing Work
Finishing work is a crucial aspect of building a house or apartment. This work includes all expenses associated with flooring, tiling, electrical installation, plumbing, sanitary, water storage tank, security, fireproofing, wall putty, painting, and window and door repair. In addition to these expenses, finishing work also includes doors, windows, wooden work, sanitary fittings, pop work, and grillwork. Depending on the amenities included, the cost of finishing work can range from Rs. 500 per square foot to Rs. 3,000 per square foot.
8. Essential Finishing Materials
When constructing a house, there are various stages of finishing required to make it a comfortable and beautiful home. Here are the essential finishing materials needed for each construction stage, their common suppliers, and the expected cost range in UP, India.
foundation stage
- Waterproofing materials: These materials help to prevent water leakage into the foundation. Common waterproofing materials include cement-based waterproofing compounds, bitumen, and polyurethane.
- Reinforcing steel bars: These are used to strengthen the foundation and prevent cracks. Steel bars come in various sizes and shapes and can be purchased from steel suppliers like Tata Steel and Jindal Steel. The cost range for steel bars is between Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 50,000 per ton.
masonry stage
- Bricks: Bricks are used for constructing walls, and they come in various types, sizes, and colors. The common suppliers of bricks in UP, India are SRS Brick Field, Jai Laxmi Bricks, and Shree Rangam Bricks. The cost range for bricks is between Rs. 4 to Rs. 9 per piece.
- Cement: Cement is used for bonding bricks and blocks together. Common cement brands in UP, India are ACC, Ambuja Cement, and Ultratech Cement. The cost range for cement is between Rs. 330 to Rs. 450 per bag.
electrical stage
- Electrical wires and cables: These are used for wiring the house for electricity. Common suppliers of electrical wires and cables in UP, India are Polycab, Finolex, and Havells. The cost range for wires and cables is between Rs. 6 to Rs. 12 per meter.
- Switches and sockets: These are used for controlling the electrical supply in the house. Common suppliers of switches and sockets in UP, India are Anchor, Legrand, and Schneider Electric. The cost range for switches and sockets is between Rs. 30 to Rs. 50 per piece.
plumbing stage
- Pipes: These are used for supplying water and removing waste. Common suppliers of pipes in UP, India are Astral Pipes, Prince Pipes, and Supreme Pipes. The cost range for pipes is between Rs. 10 to Rs. 30 per meter.
- Faucets and fittings: These are used for controlling the water supply in the house. Common suppliers of faucets and fittings in UP, India are Jaquar, Cera, and Parryware. The cost range for faucets and fittings is between Rs. 500 to Rs. 3,500 per piece.
painting stage
- Paint: Paint is used for adding color and protection to the walls. Common paint brands in UP, India are Asian Paints, Berger Paints, and Nerolac Paints. The cost range for paint is between Rs. 250 to Rs. 500 per liter.
- Brushes and rollers: These are used for applying paint to the walls. Common suppliers of brushes and rollers in UP, India are Asian Paints, Berger Paints, and Nerolac Paints. The cost range for brushes and rollers is between Rs. 100 to Rs. 300 per piece.