Design First Builders is a premier Chicago home remodeling company and all-inclusive design/build firm located in Itasca. We specialize in kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, basement remodeling and basement finishing as well as home additions, room additions and design. Serving all of Chicagoland we have over 100 years combined experience and are dedicated to simplifying the renovation process and building sophisticated spaces that add value to your home or business. We will also build your custom home on the lot of your choice. When DESIGNfirst was founded in 2006, we had a staff of three people managing all design, development and construction for projects throughout Chicagoland. Today we have a large team of Designers, Architects, Managers, Contractors and more to assist you in defining, expanding and building your dream space. We also offer financing options, client referral rewards, excellent customer service and have various industry partners offering discounts exclusive to our clients. We do everything with the client in mind to ensure a smooth process in creating every dream space!
Business highlights
20 years of trusted experience
Eco Friendly
Services we offer
We are a full service design & build firm, bringing together all elements of your residential project, integrating our design expertise with constructability, cost management, functionality upgrades (smart home) and project management services that save you the hassle of having to manage the differences between architecture design and construction.
Services we don't offer
Home Repairs, Repairs, Repair Work, Insurance Claims, Landscape
I initially contacted Design First a few years ago to build a new addition to our church. They were very professional and provided assurances that no other company did. The project ended with an absolutely beautiful addition that everyone loved! Throughout the process, DF kept all of their promises and the service was absolutely excellent!!
Since then, I hired them to replace a master bath and again…the service from start to finish was all we could hope for and more! Final thoughts…DF will honor their commitments and you will have peace if mind!!!
Walt G.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
Yes, I recommend this pro
Martin T.
01/2017
5.0
home remodeling, remodeling
+ 0 more
I'll let you know in 3 months.
Description of Work: We're just starting but so far, they are an excellent company to work with.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$30,000
Dan S.
11/2016
5.0
remodeling, home builders
+ 0 more
It couldn't have gone any better!
Description of Work: I needed an office.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
Idella C.
08/2016
5.0
remodeling
+ -1 more
unknown
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
Yes, I recommend this pro
Antonio B.
07/2016
5.0
remodeling
+ -1 more
unknown
Description of Work: estimate
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
Yes, I recommend this pro
Heather C.
06/2016
5.0
basement remodeling, remodeling, home remodeling
+ 1 more
.
Description of Work: DesignFirst was one of three contractors we chose to get quotes from on our bathroom. Based on their full-service model and competitive pricing (in the middle of the three quotes and within the budget we'd set) we chose to use them for our remodel. First, Matt, who came to the house to evaluate the project and give us a quote was very professional, listened to what we wanted, gave us a range he thought we could end up in, and walked us through the process. Once we decided we were still interested, we met with him in the storeroom and decided to use DesignFirst after seeing their full quote. Next, we worked with Sarah and Tim to make selections and finalize the scope of work. Both were great, and I just can't say enough about how much I enjoyed working with Sarah in particular. She really helped me find what we wanted, and was willing to look through SEVERAL tile selections to match our budget to something with which we'd be happy (she'd told me we had the most she'd ever done). She went above and beyond to help us make our vision come true. Finally, Gerardo did a great job overseeing the project and making sure everything came to fruition. The team was very neat, kept the dusty section of the house cordoned off (although we had zippered access), and consulted with us when needed. He was very accessible via text while I was at work, and checked in frequently to let me know what our next steps were or if the team had any questions. We're incredibly happy with the way it turned out and have already recommended them to friends.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$16,000
Jay M.
04/2016
5.0
decks, remodeling, architect, sunrooms
+ 2 more
unknown
Description of Work: Total re-model of house including new screened in porch. Great new architecture and layout built for family of 6. Provide unique design (no cookie cutter templates) and they stand behind everything they do. I highly recommend using them. This is the 2nd house we've used them on to do a re-model.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$200,000
Keshi D.
04/2016
3.0
remodeling, home remodeling
+ 0 more
unknown
Description of Work: Called to set up an estimate for remodeling job. Scheduled about 2 weeks prior to actual appointment. Appointment was set for a Saturday, April 9th. Called about week after setting up the estimate & told us that they don't do work out that far. Not too sure why it took almost 2 weeks to determine that.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
Response from DESIGNfirst Builders LLC
DESIGNfirst apologizes for the miscommunication with our Marketing team. We really appreciate your feedback. We are here to help our clients through the difficult process of home remodeling. We strive to make this experience as painless as possible. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or comments, or if there is anything we can do to help remedy your experience. Sincerely, DESIGNfirst
Wayne N.
03/2016
5.0
remodeling
+ -1 more
unknown
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
Chanda C.
03/2016
5.0
remodeling, home remodeling
+ 0 more
.
Description of Work: Remodeled entire kitchen and expanded it. Price seemed a bit high, but we were willing to pay for quality.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$75,000
Kimberly P.
02/2016
5.0
home builders
+ -1 more
.
Description of Work: .
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
Yes, I recommend this pro
Jay M.
11/2015
5.0
remodeling, sunrooms
+ 0 more
.
Description of Work: .
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
Yes, I recommend this pro
Chanda C.
11/2015
5.0
remodeling
+ -1 more
.
Description of Work: .
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
Yes, I recommend this pro
$70,000
Lydia H.
11/2015
5.0
architect, remodeling, home remodeling
+ 1 more
.
Description of Work: Completely renovated kitchen and great room to an open floor plan concept. The staff is very knowledgeable and works with the customer to make their vision a reality. They are totally customer focused and deliver a beautiful high-end design. When problems occurred they corrected immediately without question. I would highly recommend them if you are thinking of a home renovation.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$130,000
Linda H.
10/2015
5.0
remodeling
+ -1 more
unknown
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
Hans De K.
09/2015
5.0
home builders
+ -1 more
see above
Description of Work: I bought a deal that was for a service other than the work that I needed done. The rep (Danielle) assessed the situation, and then advised me that Designfirst was not a great fit for my needs. She then took the extra time to give me suggestions on dealing with my situation. She was extraordinarily professional and helpful. If she is an example of the people that work for this company, I would recommend them without reservation.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
professionalism
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
Hyukjin K.
07/2015
5.0
remodeling
+ -1 more
unknown
Description of Work: Came by for a quote
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
4.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
Meaghan R.
07/2015
5.0
remodeling
+ -1 more
unknown
Description of Work: Only the initial consultation so far. I appreciated their honesty and "one stop shop" approach to business.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
James L.
03/2015
5.0
custom cabinets, remodeling, home remodeling, plumbing
+ 2 more
Timely.
Description of Work: Build and installed a custom bathroom cabinet above the toilet that matched our 2009 renovation's other cabinets.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$800
Barbara B.
06/2014
5.0
electrician, remodeling, home remodeling
+ 1 more
unknown
Description of Work: Obtained numerous quotes for minor kitchen remodel (adding a counter, moving register, electric work, putting up a back-splash) and closing the gap between the wall and the 1st floor in a duplex down condo. |DB provides a comprehensive service, from design consultation through contracting. They were professional, and went the extra mile to ensure we were happy with the result. There was a minor issue with the floors which were redone - they pointed it out before we even noticed, and replaced the area at issue without charge. |Highly recommend them, Would use again without hesitation. Have recommended to friends.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$18,500
Brian L.
06/2014
5.0
decks, remodeling
+ 0 more
unknown
Description of Work: Cost estimate to finish deck
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
4.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$500
Lindsey F.
06/2014
5.0
remodeling
+ -1 more
unknown
Description of Work: The professional that we met with from DesignFirst provided a detailed estimate showing they were thorough and really understood our project. They are pricey, but based on my experience with another contractor I have more confidence in DesignFirst. My only caution is to read the specficiations that they put together carefully before signing the quote. They would not allow us to keep a copy before signing, so I had to spend time reviewing it with the professional in front of us.
Description of Work: From the very first contact with them until the end of the project they were wonderful. No one tried to up-sell me; in fact, they asked my budget upfront and worked very hard to stay within it. The fact that is went over was MY choice, not theirs. They came when they said they would (with one exception), and while the original date wasn't met, the delay was reasonable. Any questions I had were immediately answered, and they helped me solve a design issue that arose - once again, without trying to up-sell. My new kitchen looks wonderful; I still sit on my stairs and admire it! They removed a wall to open the kitchen to the living room, put in all new cabinets, lighting, an island, new sink, tile, and granite.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$28,000
Holly S.
10/2011
4.0
architect
+ -1 more
unknown
Description of Work: We dealt with Steve primary, but the company has changed a lot around since we had the work done. For the most part everything was okay; there was one plumbing subcontractor we weren’t very happy with. But they did the work for the price we wanted to pay. They are a one stop shop, which was nice and there were a lot of positives form the work outside the couple complaints.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
Yes, I recommend this pro
Response from DESIGNfirst Builders LLC
Thank you for the feedback. We're always improving our operations and our work in the field and we're happy to hear that your experience overall was a positive one. Even when we encounter miscues, we're always working toward a great finished product and a happy client, so we hope that you'll remember us in the future!
Harriet B.
08/2010
3.0
remodeling, home remodeling, basement remodeling
+ 1 more
Did not hire the company
Description of Work: Called Design Builder for an estimate for kitchen repairs; stated price would be $40,000 if he could choose all materials to include wood, paint color type of flooring etc..
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
professionalism
3.0
responsiveness
4.0
Response from DESIGNfirst Builders LLC
When I spoke with the homeowner she indicated that the home needed some kitchen repairs plus some additional work to get her back into it. The previous contractor had walked off the job and left almost the entire house essentially gutted (including tearing out the concrete floor to put in new plumbing for a basement bath). The kitchen could not be finished because the main sewer line had been torn out along with the basement floor. The main floor bath was also unfinished and the drain, waste and vent was done improperly and needed to be removed due to saftey hazard. After sending an employee to member's home and taken pictures and discussing the project with her and what her goals were, it was impossible to put the house back together correctly for anywhere close to her original budget of 25k. I suggested to the H/O that if she allowed Designfirst to propose budget materials that I could get her back into her home on the first floor only for a budget of 40k. Here is the list items that needed to be completed: Concrete floor for basement New below grade sewer line New furnace and ductwork for entire house completely new basement framing for a second apartment (including requested kitchen) All new electrical and electric service panel (it had been ripped out by previous contractor) New flooring in basement New plumbing in basement Entirley new bath in basement Drywall tape sand, prime and paint 65% of 2200sf house Reframe kitchen (prev contract framed over old window openings) Install kitchen cabinets, countertops, electrical, sink, faucet appliances ec Rebuild main bath - all new plumbing to source, new vanity, c/t, fixtures tub, tile flooring, electric etc. Install new water heater and replumb to all fixture locations Homeowner wanted new H/W floors throughout New doors, trim, baseboard, closets, shelving etc, etc, etc I feel very badly for the member and the predicament that her previous contractor put her in. She is renting an apartment while her home sits completely torn apart. She does have to become more realistic about her limited budget. I could have helped her sourcing seconds and low priced new items to get her into the house. My budgetary pricing to get her into the home would have still resulted in my company almost cetainly losing money. I have pictures of the entire home if anyone is interest in helping this member.
All statements concerning insurance, licenses, and bonds are informational only, and are self-reported. Since insurance, licenses and bonds can expire and can be cancelled, homeowners should always check such information for themselves. To find more licensing information for your state, visit our State Contractor License Requirements page.
*Contact business to see additional licenses.
Service Categories
General Remodeling,
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling,
Architects,
Basement Remodeling,
Framing,
Homebuilders,
Sunrooms and Patio Enclosures
FAQ
DESIGNfirst Builders LLC is currently rated 4.6 overall out of 5.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
DESIGNfirst Builders LLC accepts the following forms of payment: American Express,Check,Discover,MasterCard,Visa
No, DESIGNfirst Builders LLC does not offer a senior discount.
No, DESIGNfirst Builders LLC does not offer emergency services.
Yes, DESIGNfirst Builders LLC offers warranties.
DESIGNfirst Builders LLC offers the following services: We are a full service design & build firm, bringing together all elements of your residential project, integrating our design expertise with constructability, cost management, functionality upgrades (smart home) and project management services that save you the hassle of having to manage the differences between architecture design and construction.
Home Repairs, Repairs, Repair Work, Insurance Claims, Landscape