Forward Design Build Remodel

Marilyn Warner

2023-12

Forward did a fantastic job on my renovation. They were transparent and professional every step of the way. Together, we overcame the many obstacles inherent in renovating an historic structure. They were innovative and didn’t rush, but persisted until the best solution emerged. I am so happy with my new kitchen and bathrooms and I highly recommend working with Forward. I especially appreciated that the team members worked together so respectfully from the designers to the skilled trades, project manager to the accounting office.

Colin Moore

2024-04

Forward did an absolutely amazing job on our renovation. From the initial phone call until the final meeting 2+ years later, the experience was great. Friendly, professional people who take pride in their work and care about their clients.

Leslie Tuchman

2020-05

My husband and I had been contemplating some remodeling of our main level living area of our house and had very little experience. We chose our design/build company from a tally of recommendations from friends and colleagues. We had very definite ideas about the overall sense we wanted to achieve. We were assigned Caitlin as our designer and she could not have been better. She listened carefully to our thoughts and ideas and would bring us suggestions and materials that fit our ideas to choose from. We felt she brought us enough range to design with without being overwhelmed. Our project manager, Nicole was excellent. She was able to oversee this large project like a dance choreographer always responsive and willing to address any questions and manage the many teams of specialist tradesmen with grace and dedication. There were many different tradesmen (and women) who worked on our project who are artists and fine craftsmen in their own right. I would love to mention them all by name but there were so many. Everyone was courteous and considerate. Doing a renovation is a long haul there is no doubt about it. Having people in your space for months on end can be challenging no matter how great they are. We had some ideas that posed some difficulty (like the staircase) but they were willing to do whatever it took. We found Forward design very organized with a department for everything. Meetings and milestones were laid out ahead of time as well as when payments would be due, which we found very helpful. Who to contact about what was communicated as well. The project ran a little bit over deadline due to unforeseen setbacks. We are very happy with the end result and very glad we did it and with them. Highly recommended!

Alex Perez-Bergquist

2020-05

Our experience with Forward Design Build was excellent from start to finish. After meeting with several design build firms and construction companies, we decided to choose Forward to build our custom home based on the quality of their previous work and their professionalism, and we are very glad that we chose them! During the design phase, they listened to our needs and wants, worked with us to create a functional yet stylish home, took into account and worked with us on our budget, and ultimately were able to design a home that met all our expectations. Forward then exceeded expectations during the building phase of our project. Their construction manager kept us abreast of all work that was going on at the site and made sure that the work done by the subs was top quality. In addition, the project was done essentially on time (less than ten days past the initial finish date during an 11 months build) and on budget (literally less than a tenth of one percent off our initial budget). The quality of the finished home is excellent, and we would strongly encourage anyone looking for a custom home builder in the Ann Arbor area consider Jef and his crew.

Lynne Kochmanski

2023-05

We highly recommend Forward Design for your remodeling project. Our experience with a master bedroom/bath remodel from start to finish was professional, accommodating, and of outstanding quality. The initial design phase with Chad and Miranda was engaging, creative, and took into account our personal tastes and style. We met several times to discuss plans, materials, timeline, and budget. Once our decisions were in place and the work began, our project manager, Ben, was a delight. He was respectful of our space, attentive to the details of the ongoing work, and was there for any decisions that needed to be made along the way. His coordination of all the contractors was amazing. The timeline was followed almost exactly, and the final product was just what we wanted. We had entered into this project with trepidation, as we had never done something like this before. We were so pleased with the entire process and our new space is wonderful. For a first rate, thorough, creative, outstanding remodeling experience, Forward Design will not disappoint!Service: Bathroom remodeling

Kevin Carter

2023-11

The Forward team remodeled our kitchen and it's now the centerpiece of our home. From the initial meeting to the final walkthrough, the team paid attention to every detail, designing a functional and beautiful space that meets our family's needs. We were kept up to date on all aspects of the project in a transparent and timely manner. We highly recommend them and look forward to working with them again in the future.

Laura Kelleher

2023-11

We could not be more happy with Forward design! They built a beautiful new addition to our 1930s home and we love it. The Forward team are amazing. They are professional, responsive, and their attention to detail is unmatched.

Jill Greenberg

2021-05

My husband and I are absolutely delighted by the work that Forward Design and has done for us! We have lived in our 1924 bungalow for more than 40 years now, and last year decided to address the laundry list of problems that annoyed us during that time. We had a leaky basement with crumbling floor, a garage rotted beyond repair, a gravel driveway that would be much nicer if paved, icy back porch stairs in the winter, knob and tube wiring, and no first-floor bathroom! We contacted Forward to help us address these issues with an integrated design, and to manage the legions of sub-contractors.The finished product is fantastic. With a small addition we now have a fine first-floor bath, new kitchen, mudroom with breezeway to the new garage. Our basement is dry with a smooth floor. These changes are nicely integrated and retain the character of the house. The Forward team really opened our eyes to design possibilities that we had not considered. They were spot-on with advice and recommendations. The design process was interesting, and the team very accommodating and easy to work with, particularly when making hardware selections.Our building phase was not without a few bumps in the road – one large one being the Covid-19 shutdown of several months. Still we were very confident that Forward would provide us a quality build and address any issues. Our site manager, Rob W., did an outstanding job of moving progress ahead, working magic with scheduling sub-contractors, and keeping us informed. The sub-contractors all did superior work. (The excavator was particularly impressive). The Forward carpenters saw to all the rest. I was pleased that all the workers on site, were pleasant to be around as well as respectful of our home.To summarize: Forward Design and Build company did an outstanding job for us, meeting all our requirements. Their work meets high standards, is attentive to details, and Forward is very responsive when issues arise. The actual cost was quite close to the contracted amount. Our house is so much more livable now! I would highly recommend Forward for their quality design and workmanship, reliability, and management of sub-contractors. I felt very comfortable working with them - they made it easy for us to undertake this project.

Theresa Frasca

2020-05

We worked with Forward Design Build to remodel our kitchen and had a terrific experience. As newbies to the whole renovation process, Forward was amazing to work with each step of the way, helping us make good decisions for the space. One of the reasons we selected their bid was the creativity and problem-solving solutions they brought to our project. Five years later, our kitchen is our favorite room of our house and continues to work so hard for us by maximizing the space efficiently and truly serving as the center point of our home. Forward's talented team members are a joy to work with and were excellent communicators, which we appreciated as the process unfolded. We look forward to working with them again!

Caroline Lee

2021-05

We have worked with the Forward Design team on several projects including remodeling two bathrooms, kitchen and exterior updates over the years.It's always a pleasure working with Jef's team! Forward Design's attention to detail at the design phase and during the build has consistently produced excellent results. We are very happy with the quality of their work. The team is good at communicating with us and they are responsive to our requests during the process. We highly recommend Forward Design and look forward to working with them again on future home improvement projects.

Ellen Lee

2020-05

We had an excellent experience with Forward Design Build Remodel. Our project included finishing the basement, full kitchen remodel, new mudroom, powder room remodel, and wood floors throughout the first floor and staircase. As first time remodelers, we appreciated how thorough the Forward team was in describing the entire process so that we had no surprises from start to finish. It was a pleasure working with Ashley leading the design team and Rob leading the construction team.Ashley and the design team listened carefully to our wants and needs to come up with creative solutions that worked for us. She would quickly CAD up 3D designs and even render in patterns and fabrics to give us an idea of how things would look. She kept the process going at a good pace for us to stay on schedule.Due to the scope of our project, we moved out during the renovations, but Rob kept us well informed about the status during our weekly meetings at the house. He regularly updated and sent out a calendar to track the progress and give us a look ahead. Despite our not being there day to day, the construction team kept the house as tidy as could be expected - and did an excellent job sealing off the rest of the house from dust and debris. We had a hard deadline for the project completion and the Forward team kept right on schedule.The quality of work and the materials used are well worth the investment. We love our new home and would not hesitate to hire Forward again in the future.

Jim Grosh

2020-05

We were so delighted with our major kitchen renovation a few years ago that we had Forward Design return this year to remodel two bathrooms. Their designers once again rose to the occasion, working interactively with us to arrive at a concept that was functionally excellent and attractive. Coordination between the planning, design and building phases was seamless - they are easy to work with, fun, and highly communicative. The site supervisors are terrific, handling all subcontractors, ensuring high quality work and keeping the job site impeccably clean. And when issues arise on a project - and some always will regardless of who handles your project - Forward Design handles them in a professional and collaborative manner such that you're always in the know and never ever feel taken advantage of. Highly recommend them!

Ruth Monteith

2020-05

Forward Design has done two remodel projects at our house. They did a major kitchen, first floor remodel and a master suite remodel. Their work was very good. High quality and well managed. One of the best things about Forward is their design and build skills combine to make for a much better outcome. The project management was well executed as well.I would recommend Forward Design for any remodel projects. Perhaps the best testament to their work is that we hired them a second time on the master suite project.

Ned Glysson

2019-05

We have used the Forward Design group for at least four projects at our home and have never been disappointed. To find an architect with first hand experience as a builder is like falling into a gold mine. We found their communications and workmanship to be topnotch. When we've had impasses on design thoughts, Jef has been amazing at facilitating a compromise we are both extremely satisfied with. Forward Design Build Remodel stands by their work but since they've done it right the first time for us, seldom have had to return to correct. Should we have a need for more work, we will not hesitate to call them!

Rosemary Bogdan

2019-05

Forward Design completed an addition to our house this Spring (2018) ahead of schedule and under budget. It included removing a wall in our existing family room and connecting that room to the new room. We also had a partial wall removed between our living room and dining room and an expansion of our driveway. FD was very professional, creative, patient and kind through the entire process.At first we really didn't know exactly what we wanted and they helped us to figure that out. They even produced a computer generated "walk through" that allowed us to see what the new space would look like and how it would work for our family.During the construction phase, all our questions were promptly addressed. Our lead carpenter Rob handled absolutely everything and kept us informed about where we were in the process. He even took the time to explain things to my young grandson who was very interested in the entire process.Forward Design is a great group of people. You can trust them. We highly recommend Forward Design for any construction or remodeling. We had a great experience from start to finish.

a2bdw “Ben Williams”

2020-05

Forward Design remodeled most of our first floor, including a bump out in our kitchen. The entire team worked closely with us to make sure everything, and particularly the design, met all of our desires. We are pretty particular - the Forward team took on the challenge and delivered! They listened and responded to our thoughts, gave creative design ideas and suggestions, tackled the always to be expected unexpected “finds,” and gave us a home we love to come home to! If we had to do it all over again - we would hire Forward Design again!

Dale and Jan Walker

2020-05

When contemplating remodeling our kitchen we chose Forward Design Build based on observing their work and talking to Jef at several area remodeling showcases. His team was attentive, creative and responsive. The interaction we experienced with both the project designer and construction project manager was excellent. We highly recommend Forward Design Build. We love our kitchen!

Chelsea Soyring

2021-05

It was a pleasure to work with Forward for our basement renovation. The switch to working from home during the Covid-19 pandemic was challenging for our family as we tried to shift spaces to accommodate two home offices plus a new nursery. Forward helped make this process seamless for our family during a complicated time, from presenting design concepts that were exactly on point with our style to excellent communication and strict adherence to Covid-19 policies. They even finished the project ahead of schedule! We immediately felt at home in the renovated space, because the design and decor decisions facilitated by Forward so accurately reflected our tastes and fulfilled our needs. We highly recommend Forward Design Build Remodel!Services: Install flooring, Paint indoors, Remodeling, Furniture assembly, Drywall repair

Nick Kozar

2020-05

I've known and worked with Jef, (owner), for 15 years now, and you won't find a better person in the design/build business. From a homeowners perspective, I am always impressed with their design, attention to detail, and quality of work. From a plumbing contractors perspective, I appreciate their communication, timeliness, and organization. EVERYONE that works at Forward Design Build are top notch, great people. I'm always proud of the projects that I complete with them.

Stacey Simpson Duke

2019-05

From beginning to end, working with Forward Design Build Remodel was an absolute dream. The design team was so diligent, professional, thorough, and creative as they helped turn our vision into specific details. The construction team was equally diligent, professional, thorough, and flexible throughout the remodel process. The design team and construction team worked together in a smooth, integrated, flawless way, communicating clearly with each other and with us; this made everything go so smoothly. We are absolutely thrilled with our gorgeous, functional new addition (kitchen, dining, and family room) - it is absolutely perfect and it has changed the feel of the whole house for the better. And on top of that, the Forward team came in under budget and ahead of schedule! We could not have been happier with the process or the finished product.

Eric Sutton

2019-05

We hired Forward to redesign and build a new kitchen and bathroom, and bump out an existing wall to create a dining-room space, for our small home in Ann Arbor. From the get-go, they displayed a willingness to listen to our ideas and meld them with their own. The process was a long one, but in hindsight, their thoroughness, dedication, and professionalism made the project an overwhelming success. I really appreciated how detail-oriented they were in the initial stages. When we were out of the house during construction, I knew exactly what was been done and how the project was proceeding. The design and construction teams were very amenable, and Jef, the owner, intervened appropriately when necessary with his expertise. We are incredibly happy with the project - the levels of craftsmanship and eye for aesthetic make the work timeless. Forward is worth the investment.

Julie Mattock Rick

2019-05

I have recommended the firm to anyone and everyone who asks (and some that don't ask as well). As first time remodelers, we had no idea what to expect, but Forward Design met and exceeded our expectations in all areas. Everyone we encountered was professional, kind, and replied to our questions or concerns in a timely manner. After the renovation, our space went from being a house to a home. The beautiful design and fixtures of our kitchen have elevated the value of our home, and improved the quality of our daily life. We look forward to working with Forward Design again on future renovations to our home.

Karl Desch

2020-05

We have worked with Forward Design Build for two large home remodeling projects. We live in Ann Arbor hills in a contemporary home (1960 vintage). The first was a new design of most of the lower levels of our house which includes a large home theater exercise area, guest bedroom and bath. The second was a complete kitchen remodel.The design process involves a series of meetings with Jef and the design team. Jef was flexible with the scheduling and met with my wife and I at work on several occasions. They use architectural drawings and computer models to help you visualize the remodel. They are also helped us go look at countertops, tiles, back splashes appliances and furniture.At the end of the design process you know what you are going to end up with.Having construction performed in your living space Is inevitably a pain. But the Forward construction team are awesome. They were reliable clean and courteous. Had great conversations with them about the job, building and life in general. You always know when to expect them in the morning because they do an excellent job communicating. They also did a great job showing you what they found when the inevitable "surprises" turn up. Like a pipe that appears when you break up the floor and has to be re-routed.We live in Ann Arbor. We feel like compared to our friends in other parts of Michigan, we pay more because we live in Ann Arbor. We think of it as the Ann Arbor markup. From what we can tell, Forward Design build is not the most expensive contractor around but they are not a discount outfit either. Most importantly, at the end of the process, you feel like you got what you paid for knowing the local market is what it is. With Forward, you know what you are ending up with because of the excellent design process and you know that the work performed is to a high standard and occurs on time without unnecessary gaps. They are transparent about costs up front and worked to address specific "surprises" in the building process.It is always important to get several bids from different contractors when considering big home remodeling projects. Forward Design build should definitely be on your list if you value high quality work and a timely reliable process.

Tiffany Walter

2020-05

The Forward Design team was a pleasure to work with! Incredibly professional and took care of every little detail in all of our interactions and also in all of the work they did on our house (kitchen/dining complete redo, and second floor bedroom addition). Two years later we are still loving how functional and beautiful our rooms are.

Jeff Grubbs

2020-05

I have been doing electrical work for Forward Design Build for several years now and have to say they are a top notch company with a team that is very professional and truly cares about the job at hand and customers we do work for. They also communicate extremely well with all the trades to keep the jobs running smoothly. Which is extremely important and makes the jobs nice to work on. I’m very proud to be part of there trade team. I would highly recommend them for the smallest to the largest of jobs.

karen Rothstein

2020-05

What a great team and company, starting with the top, owners Jeff and Monica Forward. We couldn't of asked for a more professional, dedicated, and honest company that gives you an excellent result !There are no surprises. The team works with you to provide a detailed contract that fits your needs and your budget. Everyone is so nice and easy to work with.. Will definitely work with Forward Design again in the future.

terry schumacher

2020-05

Forward Design Build remodeled 3 bathrooms for us. Our experience was exceptional. The entire team, as well as every subcontractor, was very competent and professional. From design recommendations to extraordinary finishing work, the jobs were completed beautifully and on schedule.We would definitely recommend this company.

Adam Gross

2021-05

We used Forward for a full remodel of our kitchen from the subfloor on up. We are very happy with the job they did in both the design and build phases. We appreciate how organized and detail-oriented every step was. We love our new kitchen!Service: Remodeling

Tanya Wright

2020-05

We had a fantastic experience with Forward Design Build. We loved their attention to detail and the quality of their work. They're also just really nice people! After our large renovation, we continue to use them for smaller project. Strongly recommend this company!

Jim Ramsey

2020-05

Our first encounter with Forward Design Build was having our 2-bedroom/half-bath on our third floor converted to a suite for my brother-in-law to live with us. We had also contacted two other builders for bids. Jef Forward had ideas and suggestions on converting existing space into something certainly more functional including a full bath for which we previously thought we didn’t have enough floor space. His creativity in adding a shower was a pleasant surprise. We were not disappointed and the renovation was completed in a timely manner and on budget.Our next project was a complete kitchen remodel down to the studs and sub-floor including moving a bathroom to more logical space. Based on our previous experience with Jef Forward, we did not even consider getting bids from anyone else. Jef sat down with us and presented designs for various kitchen layouts and floor/tile/cabinet/cupboard/appliance options. The detail was very inclusive and he also encouraged input and suggestions from us.Office and Business Manager, Monica Forward kept us informed with on-going updates and status meetings for budget and timeline issues. We found these to always be very productive. The experience with the entire staff from Jef and Monica, to office staff, and work crew was most pleasant and beneficial. Jef and Monica are very knowledgeable, personable, and hands-on. A joy to work with. Everyone on site was extremely courteous and attentive to any questions or concerns we had. At the end of each day, the workplace was as clean and organized as what it was when the workday began.Additionally we have used Jef and crew for Handy Man type jobs. Quickly responsive and not surprising, based on previous experiences, able to handle any request at a reasonable rate.Forward Design Build is extremely customer oriented and creative with vision that exceeded our expectations in the 15 years we have had them do work for us. Total satisfaction for every encounter with them. Indeed a Full-Service company with the customer Job 1.Jim and Holly RamseyAnn Arbor