The decision catalog

A custom home is 1,145 decisions. Who is making yours?

Browse every decision behind a high-end home, from the survey to the last pillow. Then take the interior designer out and see what lands on you.

Browse the decisions Request a walkthrough

What the catalog shows

635: decisions an interior designer makes or advises on
850: decisions that must be locked before the walls close
225: decisions only the homeowner can make, best made with a guide
189: decisions with no published lead time, so someone has to chase the date

Every decision, by room and stage

Rooms (264)

Kitchen layout and work zones

Cooking program: How does the household actually cook and entertain, and how many people work at once? (Owner)
Plan configuration: Which plan configuration organizes the kitchen? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Work centers and zones: Which work centers exist and how are they separated? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Work route distance: What travel distances between primary centers are acceptable? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Through traffic: How is household traffic kept out of the work route? (Architect)
Tall elements: Where do refrigerator columns, oven stacks and pantry towers sit? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Island footprint: What are the island's length, width and number of pieces? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Island function: What does the island do? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Sightlines: What should be visible from adjoining living spaces? (Interior designer)
Ceiling height and soffits: How do ceiling height and soffits relate to cabinet tops and hoods? (Architect)
Window wall: Do windows replace wall cabinets, and how do they meet counters? (Architect)
Cooking surface location: Is the cooking surface kept clear of operable windows and flammable treatments? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Fire safety: Where is the fire extinguisher, and is automatic suppression included? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Waste and recycling: How many waste streams, where, and at what volume? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Device and drop zone: Where do phones, mail, keys and tablets live? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Island receptacles: How is island power delivered under the adopted electrical code? (Electrical designer)
GFCI and appliance circuits: How are kitchen circuits, GFCI devices and resets arranged? (Electrical designer)
Backsplash receptacle concealment: How are wall receptacles concealed or expressed? (Interior designer)
Kitchen lighting layers: How is task, ambient and accent light layered? (Lighting designer)
Kitchen flooring: What floor finish runs under the kitchen and does it run under cabinets? (Interior designer)
Delivery path: Can the largest appliance and slab physically reach the kitchen? (General contractor)

NKBA clearances and accessibility

Kitchen doorways: What clear door width serves the kitchen? (Architect)
Work aisles: What aisle widths are drawn between counters and tall units? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Walkways: How wide are walkways adjoining work aisles? (Architect)
Seating clearance behind diners: How much space remains behind seated diners? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Counter seating knee space: What seat width, height and overhang are provided per diner? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Sink landing: What counter runs flank the cleanup sink? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Primary prep area: Where is the continuous prep run, and how large is it? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Dishwasher placement: How close is the dishwasher to the sink, and what standing space remains? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Refrigerator landing: Where do items land when leaving the refrigerator? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Cooking surface landing: What landing flanks the cooking surface? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Vertical clearance over cooking: What vertical clearance exists above the burners? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Microwave height: At what height is the microwave set? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Combined landing areas: Where two landing areas abut, how much shared counter is provided? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Total counter frontage: How much usable counter frontage is provided? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Storage frontage: Does shelf and drawer frontage meet needs for the kitchen size? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Corner storage: What functional device handles corners? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Multiple counter heights: Are two work heights provided? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Accessible kitchen readiness: To what degree is the kitchen wheelchair-usable now or later? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Corner geometry: Are counter corners eased? (Kitchen and bath designer)

Cabinetry

Cabinet source: Who builds the cabinetry? (Owner)
Box construction: Framed or frameless box? (Cabinet maker)
Door overlay: What door relationship to the box? (Interior designer)
Door style: What door profile and rail width? (Interior designer)
Species and cut: What wood species and cut? (Interior designer)
Finish system: What finish system and sheen? (Cabinet maker)
Drawer and hinge hardware: Which glides and hinges? (Cabinet maker)
Decorative hardware: What pulls and knobs, in what finish, at what placement? (Interior designer)
Interior accessories: Which interior organizers are specified, drawer by drawer? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Upper cabinet height: Do uppers stop at standard height, go to ceiling, or vanish? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Base and counter height: What finished counter height is set for each run? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Toe kick: What toe-kick design? (Cabinet maker)
End panels and appliance panels: How are ends and appliances paneled? (Cabinet maker)
Island cabinetry treatment: Does the island read as furniture or matching millwork? (Interior designer)
Scribes and fillers: How are out-of-square conditions and fillers handled? (Cabinet maker)
Cabinet blocking: Where is wall blocking and island anchoring? (General contractor)
Humidity management: What humidity control protects wood casework? (General contractor)

Countertops

Counter material: Which material for each run? (Interior designer)
Slab selection and hold: Which slabs are reserved, and how are they tagged? (Owner)
Thickness: What apparent edge thickness? (Stone fabricator)
Edge profile: Which edge profile? (Interior designer)
Surface finish: Polished, honed, or leathered? (Interior designer)
Seam layout: Where are seams, and who approves? (Stone fabricator)
Overhang and support: How far is the overhang and what supports it? (Stone fabricator)
Waterfall returns: Are island ends waterfalled, and is the grain continuous? (Interior designer)
Sink edge condition: How do counter and sink meet? (Stone fabricator)
Cooktop cutouts: How is the cooktop mounted? (Stone fabricator)
Sealing and care: Who seals, and what is the maintenance regime? (Stone fabricator)
Fabrication safety sourcing: Does the project restrict high-silica engineered stone? (Owner)

Backsplash

Backsplash material: Which material and format? (Interior designer)
Backsplash height: Does it stop at uppers, run to the hood, or to ceiling? (Interior designer)
Range wall detail: How is the range wall composed? (Interior designer)
Terminations and transitions: How does backsplash end at open sides and at uppers? (Tile contractor)

Appliances

Appliance package: When is the full appliance schedule frozen, with model numbers? (Owner)
Fuel strategy: What fuel serves cooking? (Owner)
Cooking equipment form: Range, or separated rangetop, cooktop and ovens? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Range width and config: What width and burner configuration? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Gas supply sizing: Is gas line and meter sized for total load? (Mechanical engineer)
Electrical load: Is electrical service sized for induction, ovens and steam? (Electrical designer)
Induction specifics: If induction, what constraints apply? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Oven type and count: Which ovens and how many? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Oven stacking height: How are ovens stacked and at what height? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Oven landing: Is landing available for oven contents? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Microwave: What microwave or speed-cook product? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Warming and specialty: Are warming drawers, coffee systems or sous-vide fitted? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Dishwasher type: Which dishwasher, in what number? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Dishwasher panel integration: What panel system is used and how is the outlet located? (Cabinet maker)
Refrigeration configuration: What refrigeration equipment, and how arranged? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Refrigerator panel-ready details: How do panels and grilles work with built-in units? (Cabinet maker)
Refrigerator water line: How is water supplied? (Plumbing contractor)
Ice maker: Is a dedicated ice machine included? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Wine and beverage storage: What kitchen-level wine or beverage cooling is provided? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Compactor and disposal extras: Are trash compactors or similar waste-tech used? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Smart appliance connectivity: Are appliances networked and what is integrated? (AV/low-voltage integrator)

Ventilation

Hood style: What hood type? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Hood width and depth: How wide and deep is the capture area? (Mechanical engineer)
Exhaust airflow: What exhaust rate is specified? (Mechanical engineer)
Blower location: Where does the blower sit? (Mechanical engineer)
Duct route: What is the duct path to outdoors? (Mechanical engineer)
Makeup air requirement: Is makeup air required and how is it supplied? (Mechanical engineer)
Makeup air tempering: Is makeup air heated, cooled or filtered? (Mechanical engineer)
Makeup air intake and outlet: Where do the outside intake and indoor discharge sit? (Mechanical engineer)
Ventilation controls: How is the hood operated? (Electrical designer)
Ventilation noise: What noise target is acceptable? (Mechanical engineer)
Recirculating exception: Is any recirculating or ductless option permitted? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Scullery ventilation: Does the scullery need its own exhaust? (Mechanical engineer)

Sinks, faucets and water

Primary sink: What is the primary sink material and form? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Prep and auxiliary sink: Is there a second sink and where? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Island sink venting: How is an island sink vented? (Plumbing contractor)
Kitchen faucet: Which faucet type and finish? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Pot filler: Is a pot filler included? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Filtered and instant water: Are filtered, hot, chilled or sparkling taps included? (Plumbing contractor)
Water treatment: Is whole-house softening or filtration needed? (Plumbing contractor)
Disposal: What disposal, if any? (Plumbing contractor)
Leak detection: What leak detection protects kitchen plumbing? (Plumbing contractor)
Hot water delivery: How is hot water delivered to fixtures fast? (Mechanical engineer)

Scullery and pantry

Scullery role: What is the scullery for? (Owner)
Scullery layout and connection: How does it link to kitchen, garage and service entry? (Architect)
Scullery appliances: Which appliances duplicate into the scullery? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Scullery surfaces: What materials suit a hidden work room? (Interior designer)
Pantry shelving: What kind of pantry storage and depth? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Pantry cold and bulk storage: Is cold storage or a root cellar included? (Architect)
Appliance garages and pull-out shelves: Which small appliances get dedicated home? (Kitchen and bath designer)

Primary bath

Bath program: How do the owners use the primary bath? (Owner)
Layout: How are wet, dry and toilet zones organized? (Architect)
Clear floor space: Does every fixture have the planned clear space? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Bath door: What width and type of door? (Architect)
Ceiling height at fixtures: What minimum height exists at the shower and sloped ceilings? (Architect)

Vanity

Vanity form: What vanity form? (Interior designer)
Lavatory spacing: How are lav centers spaced? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Vanity height: What vanity height for each user? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Lavatory style: Which basin type and material? (Interior designer)
Lavatory faucet: Which faucet? (Interior designer)
Vanity top: What top material and edge? (Interior designer)
Vanity storage and power: What is stored and is power in-drawer? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Mirrors: What mirror strategy? (Interior designer)
Vanity lighting: How is grooming light delivered? (Lighting designer)

Tub

Tub type: Is a tub included and what kind? (Owner)
Tub structure and path: Can the floor and access path carry it? (Structural engineer)
Tub filler: How is the tub filled? (Plumbing contractor)
Tub hot water capacity: Can the system fill the tub hot? (Mechanical engineer)
Tub access safety: How is safe entry provided? (Kitchen and bath designer)

Shower system

Shower size: How large is the shower? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Entry type: How does one enter? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Curbless structural approach: How is curbless achieved? (Structural engineer)
Drain type and location: What drain and where? (Tile contractor)
Floor slope: What slope and high point? (Tile contractor)
Waterproofing system: Which waterproofing method? (Tile contractor)
Waterproof extent: How far do walls and floor go? (Tile contractor)
Waterproof testing: Is a flood test required? (General contractor)
Shower tile format: What floor and wall tile sizes? (Tile contractor)
Slip resistance: What slip-resistance level is specified? (Tile contractor)
Valve type: What valve system? (Plumbing contractor)
Outlets and spray layout: Which outlets and where? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Control location: Where do valves sit? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Hand shower: What hand shower and hose? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Shower seat: Is a seat built, folding or omitted? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Glass enclosure: What glass, hardware and pivot? (Interior designer)
Steam option: Is a steam shower included? (Owner)
Niches and ledges: How are products stored in the shower? (Tile contractor)
Wet room detail: If a wet room, what is the boundary? (Architect)

Toilets, bidets and bath systems

Toilet type: What toilet form? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Toilet placement: What centerline and clearance? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Toilet compartment: Enclosed room or open area? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Toilet seat height: What seat height? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Bidet choice: Standalone or integrated bidet? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Heated floor: Which floor warming? (Mechanical engineer)
Towel warmer and supplemental heat: Towel warmer type and hookup? (Interior designer)
Bath exhaust: What exhaust rate and control? (Mechanical engineer)
Bath electrical: Where are receptacles and switches? (Electrical designer)
Reinforcement and grab bars: Where is blocking and which bars? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Bath accessories: What accessories and where? (Interior designer)
Bath flooring: What floor outside the wet zone? (Interior designer)
Linen and laundry chute: Is there a linen closet and laundry connection? (Architect)

Aging in place and accessibility

Accessibility level: What accessibility level does the project target? (Owner)
Accessible route: Is there a step-free route to primary suite, kitchen and bath? (Architect)
Wheelchair shower geometry: Does the plan provide a roll-in or transfer shower? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Toilet transfer clearance: Is space reserved for assisted toilet transfer? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Knee space at lavatory: Is there seated-use lav access? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Controls reach: Are switches and controls within reach ranges? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Lighting for aging eyes: What additional lighting supports older users? (Lighting designer)
Monitoring and home technology: Are aging-in-place technology provisions included? (AV/low-voltage integrator)

Secondary and powder baths

Secondary bath standard: What standard applies to secondary baths? (Owner)
Jack-and-jill configuration: Shared bath between bedrooms? (Architect)
Kids bath durability: What durability for kids' baths? (Interior designer)
Tub-shower combination: Are combos acceptable in some baths? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Guest bath details: What hospitality details are included? (Interior designer)
Powder room location: Where is the powder room relative to social spaces? (Architect)
Powder room fixtures: Which fixture approach for a small statement room? (Interior designer)
Powder room finish: What surfaces define the room? (Interior designer)
Powder room acoustics: How is powder room sound kept from adjoining social rooms? (Architect)

Laundry

Laundry location: Where is laundry and how many? (Architect)
Washer and dryer: Which machines and venting? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Floor protection and drain: What leak containment? (Plumbing contractor)
Laundry sink: What sink and faucet? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Folding, hanging and storage: What work surfaces and hanging? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Laundry exhaust and humidity: How is moisture handled? (Mechanical engineer)

Mudroom and pet stations

Mudroom location: Where does daily entry happen? (Architect)
Lockers and cubbies: What locker or cubby system serves each family member? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Mudroom floor: What durable floor? (Interior designer)
Package and mail drop: How are packages and mail received? (Architect)
Pet washing station: Is a dog wash included and at what height? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Pet feeding and containment: How are bowls, food and crates housed? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Pet door or run: Is a pet door or fenced run included? (Architect)

Closets

Primary closet size and layout: What size and how do people flow? (Architect)
Closet system: What casework type? (Interior designer)
Closet lighting: How is clothing lit? (Lighting designer)
Valuables storage: Is there a safe or locked jewelry drawer? (Owner)
Closet climate: Is the closet climate conditioned separately? (Mechanical engineer)
Closet island power and finish: Is the island powered, with counter and clearances? (Interior designer)
Dressing and laundry connection: What supports dressing routines? (Interior designer)

Home office

Office purpose: What work actually happens there? (Owner)
Office acoustics: How is the office isolated and tuned for calls? (Architect)
Office lighting and glare: What lighting supports calls and screens? (Lighting designer)
Office data and power: What hardwired network and power? (AV/low-voltage integrator)
Office millwork: What built-ins and desk? (Interior designer)

Wine cellar

Cellar scope and capacity: What capacity and whether display or storage? (Owner)
Cellar location: Interior, below grade or on display? (Architect)
Environmental target: What temperature and humidity? (Owner)
Vapor barrier and insulation: What envelope? (Architect)
Cooling system: Which cooling equipment? (Mechanical engineer)
Cellar door and glass: What door? (Architect)
Racking: What racking? (Interior designer)
Cellar floor: What finish? (Interior designer)
Cellar lighting and monitoring: What lighting and alarms? (Lighting designer)

Gym

Equipment program: What equipment? (Owner)
Floor and structure: What floor and structural capacity? (Structural engineer)
Conditioning and air: What ventilation and cooling? (Mechanical engineer)
Mirrors and media: What wall treatment? (Interior designer)
Recovery connection: How do cold plunge, shower or sauna connect? (Architect)

Home theater

Theater type: Dedicated theater or media room? (Owner)
Room proportions and sightlines: What seating geometry? (AV/low-voltage integrator)
Sound isolation: What isolation assembly? (Architect)
Room treatment: What acoustic and visual finish? (Interior designer)
Equipment and cooling: Where does the rack sit? (AV/low-voltage integrator)
Seating: Which seating and power? (Interior designer)
Theater ventilation: How is quiet air delivered? (Mechanical engineer)

Sauna

Sauna type: Traditional, infrared or steam? (Owner)
Sauna power and heater: What heater capacity and circuit? (Electrical designer)
Sauna vapor barrier: What vapor layer? (Architect)
Sauna ventilation: What ventilation approach? (Architect)
Benches, wood species and door: What interior? (Interior designer)
Sauna adjacency: What surrounds the sauna? (Architect)

Guest suites and bunk rooms

Guest suite strategy: How many and how separate? (Owner)
Guest kitchenette: Is there a small kitchenette? (Architect)
Guest entry and accessibility: Separate exterior access and step-free? (Architect)
Guest controls and comfort: Are controls simple for visitors? (AV/low-voltage integrator)
Bunk room configuration: What sleeping arrangement? (Interior designer)
Bunk room egress and life safety: Does the room meet emergency requirements? (Architect)
Bunk personal space: What per-bed amenities? (Interior designer)
Bunk bath throughput: How does the adjacent bath handle peak use? (Architect)

Garage storage

Garage depth and bay count: Do bays fit the actual vehicles and storage? (Architect)
Garage casework and walls: What wall and cabinet system survives garage conditions? (General contractor)
Garage floor: What finish and drainage? (General contractor)
EV and power: What EV charging and service? (Electrical designer)
Garage climate and exhaust: Is the garage conditioned? (Mechanical engineer)
Car lift and overhead storage: Is a lift included? (Owner)

Lake-house gear and boot rooms

Gear room role: What does the gear room serve? (Architect)
Wet gear drying: How is wet gear dried? (Mechanical engineer)
Rinse shower: Where is rinsing? (Plumbing contractor)
Equipment storage: What racks and bins? (Kitchen and bath designer)
Gear room floor and drain: What floor and drain? (Tile contractor)
Seasonal shutdown provisions: How does the wet infrastructure winterize? (Plumbing contractor)
Theft and pest protection: How is gear secured? (AV/low-voltage integrator)

Systems (208)

HVAC

Load calculation: Commission a room-by-room Manual J from the actual envelope spec, not a square-foot rule (Mechanical designer)
Equipment selection: Select equipment against Manual J using Manual S limits at design conditions (Mechanical designer)
Duct design: Size and route duct by Manual D before framing is drawn (Mechanical designer)
Primary system type: Choose the whole-house heating and cooling architecture (Owner)
Fuel strategy: Decide gas, propane or all-electric for space heating (Owner)
Furnace: Specify furnace efficiency, staging and blower (Mechanical designer)
Cold-climate heat pump: Require cold-climate rated equipment and confirm capacity at design temperature (Mechanical designer)
Geothermal loop: Choose ground-loop configuration and field location (Owner)
Hydronic boiler: Select heat source for radiant, snowmelt and indirect hot water (Mechanical designer)
Ducted versus ductless by zone: Decide where wall or ceiling cassettes are acceptable and where only concealed ducted units may be used (Interior designer)
Zoning count: Define zones by exposure, floor and use, not by floor alone (Mechanical designer)
Zone hardware: Choose multiple systems versus dampered zones (Mechanical designer)
Equipment location: Locate air handlers and furnaces within conditioned space (Architect)
Duct routing strategy: Establish chases, floor-truss cavities and conditioned routes on the architectural plan (Architect)
Soffit and bulkhead design: Treat any required duct bulkheads as designed features (Interior designer)
Supply outlet type: Select the supply register family by room tier (Interior designer)
Register location plan: Fix each register on the reflected ceiling plan or floor plan (Interior designer)
Linear slot diffusers: Decide if slot diffusers are used and at which planes (Interior designer)
Return air strategy: Choose central or room returns and their concealment (Mechanical designer)
Return grille concealment: Decide how large return grilles are hidden (Interior designer)
Floor register detail: Specify flush floor registers in hardwood and tile (Interior designer)
Toe-kick registers: Decide kitchen and bath toe-kick heat and airflow path (Interior designer)
Thermostat platform: Choose communicating OEM controls versus third-party smart thermostats (Mechanical designer)
Thermostat location: Place thermostats on the interior elevations with other wall devices (Interior designer)
Remote sensors: Decide where remote temperature or occupancy sensors go (Mechanical designer)
Ventilation system type: Choose balanced ventilation and HRV or ERV for a cold climate (Mechanical designer)
Ventilation distribution: Decide dedicated ventilation ducts versus connection to central ducts (Mechanical designer)
Humidification: Choose whole-house winter humidification and target level (Owner)
Dehumidification: Decide on dedicated summer and basement dehumidification (Mechanical designer)
Filtration: Select filter efficiency and location (Mechanical designer)
Range ventilation: Size hood exhaust and makeup air (Interior designer)
Bath exhaust: Choose bath fan type and control (Mechanical designer)
Dryer and laundry venting: Choose vented or ventless drying and duct route (Owner)
Radiant floor scope: Decide where radiant floors go and whether they are primary or comfort heat (Owner)
Radiant manifold location: Locate manifold boxes without exposing them (Mechanical designer)
Radiant floor assembly: Match tubing method to finish floor (Flooring contractor)
Radiant controls: Choose floor-sensor versus air-sensor control (Mechanical designer)
Snowmelt scope: Decide if driveway, walks, steps and terraces get snowmelt (Owner)
Snowmelt controls and fluid: Specify activation and glycol loop (Mechanical designer)
Fireplace type: Select each fireplace's fuel and form (Interior designer)
Fireplace venting and combustion air: Set vent route, termination and combustion air (Hearth specialist)
Fireplace wall assembly: Coordinate mantel, TV and finish clearances (Interior designer)
Fireplace controls: Pick the ignition and control interface (Hearth specialist)
Outdoor condensers: Locate outdoor units away from view and bedrooms (Architect)
Line sets and refrigerant routes: Route refrigerant lines inside chases rather than on exterior (Mechanical designer)
Wine cellar cooling: Choose refrigeration for wine storage (Owner)
Garage heating: Decide heat for the garage (Owner)
Noise and vibration: Set sound targets for rooms adjacent to mechanicals (Mechanical designer)
Condensate routing: Route condensate to a drain without exposed pumps (Mechanical designer)
Exterior vent terminations: Consolidate intake, exhaust and flue penetrations on elevations (Architect)

Plumbing

Water source: Confirm municipal or private well supply (Owner)
Well design: Locate well and set pump and tank arrangement (Plumber)
Water service sizing: Size the service for simultaneous fixture demand (Plumber)
Water testing: Test incoming water before selecting treatment (Owner)
Water softening: Choose softening method (Owner)
Whole-house filtration: Select point-of-entry treatment (Water treatment specialist)
Drinking water: Choose point-of-use treatment and faucet (Interior designer)
Water heater type: Choose domestic hot water source (Mechanical designer)
Hot water capacity: Set storage and recovery by luxury fixture peak (Plumber)
Hot water recirculation: Choose loop or on-demand recirculation (Plumber)
Recirculation control: Choose timer, demand button, occupancy, or automation trigger (Plumber)
Scald and Legionella control: Set storage temperature and mixing valves (Plumber)
Supply pipe material: Choose PEX, copper or a combination (Plumber)
Distribution layout: Choose manifold or trunk-and-branch and locate manifolds (Plumber)
Sanitary disposal: Confirm sewer connection or on-site treatment (Owner)
Below-grade drainage: Decide gravity versus ejector for basement fixtures (Plumber)
Sump and foundation drainage: Specify sump, backup and discharge (Plumber)
Radon mitigation: Rough-in passive radon with fan-ready path (Architect)
Rough-in coordination: Lock fixture rough-in dimensions from actual cut sheets (Plumber)
Floor drains: Decide where floor drains and pans are required (Plumber)
Shower drain: Choose linear, tile-in or point drain and curbless detail (Interior designer)
Shower valves and heads: Set flow rates, valve count and access (Interior designer)
Steam shower: Decide steam generator scope and location (Owner)
Bathtub filler: Choose freestanding tub filler rough-in (Interior designer)
Wall-mounted lavatory and faucet: Decide wall-mount faucets and in-wall toilets (Interior designer)
Kitchen rough-ins: Coordinate sinks, disposer, dishwashers and pot filler (Plumber)
Laundry rough-in: Set washer location, drain and stacked versus side-by-side (Interior designer)
Leak detection: Choose whole-house shutoff and sensors (Owner)
Exterior water and irrigation: Plan freezeproof hose bibbs and irrigation source (Plumber)
Gas service: Determine utility gas, pressure and meter location (Plumber)
Propane tank: Size and locate buried or above-ground propane (Plumber)
Gas piping: Choose pipe material, bonding and manifolds (Plumber)
Gas appliance stubs: Locate range, grill, fire pit, dryer and generator gas stubs (Interior designer)
Drain and vent routing: Coordinate stacks and roof vents with ceilings and roof planes (Plumber)
Pipe noise: Decide acoustic treatment of waste lines over living spaces (Architect)
Freeze protection: Keep supply piping out of exterior walls and vulnerable bays (Plumber)
Specialty fixtures: Confirm plumbing for bars, dog wash, outdoor kitchen and spa (Owner)

Electrical

Service size: Set service ampacity from a future-inclusive load calculation (Electrician)
Utility and service entry: Confirm serving utility and overhead or underground entry (Electrician)
Meter and disconnect location: Place the meter and service equipment on the elevation (Architect)
Panel layout: Choose number and locations of panels and subpanels (Electrician)
Smart panel and load management: Decide on energy-managing panel or load shedding (Owner)
Surge protection: Install whole-home surge protection (Electrician)
AFCI and GFCI scope: Confirm protected circuit locations under the applicable code edition (Electrician)
EV charging: Decide EV capacity, location and hardware (Owner)
Standby generator: Choose backup scope and generator (Owner)
Transfer equipment: Choose transfer switch configuration and critical circuits (Electrician)
Solar readiness and array: Decide solar scope and roof planes (Owner)
Battery storage: Choose battery location, capacity and coupling (Owner)
Appliance circuits: Generate a circuit schedule from final appliance specs (Electrician)
Specialty heat and wet loads: Plan circuits for sauna, steam, spa, heated floors, towel warmers and mirror defog (Electrician)
Receptacle plan: Lay out receptacles on interior elevations rather than by code minimum (Interior designer)
Floor outlets: Choose floor boxes for floating furniture (Interior designer)
Kitchen countertop power: Decide outlet strategy on backsplash and island (Interior designer)
In-cabinet power: Plan drawer outlets, charging and appliance garages (Interior designer)
Device style: Select the wiring device family (Interior designer)
Plate material: Choose plates and finish by room (Interior designer)
Switch plan: Decide conventional switching or scene keypads by room (Lighting designer)
Device mounting height: Set standard height and special heights (Interior designer)
Device coordination on elevations: Coordinate wall boxes with casing, paneling and millwork (Interior designer)
Exterior power: Plan exterior, soffit and holiday circuits (Electrician)
Ice dam heat cable: Decide on roof and gutter heat cable as needed (Architect)
Garage and workshop: Provide tools, lifts and door opener circuits (Owner)
Elevator and lift: Allow for residential elevator power and machine room (Owner)
Dock and outbuilding feeders: Plan power to docks, boathouses and detached structures (Electrician)
Spare capacity and conduit: Set spare breaker space, feeders and accessible raceways (Electrician)
Grounding and bonding: Confirm grounding electrode system and bonding of metal piping (Electrician)

Lighting

Lighting design engagement: Decide whether a dedicated lighting designer leads (Owner)
Layered lighting concept: Define ambient, task, accent and decorative layers per room (Lighting designer)
Recessed downlight system: Choose the recessed family (Lighting designer)
Trim style: Choose trim and flange (Interior designer)
Color temperature: Set a CCT standard by zone (Lighting designer)
Color rendering: Set minimum CRI and R9 for art, stone and skin tones (Lighting designer)
Beam angle: Select beam distribution by mounting height and target (Lighting designer)
Glare control: Set shielding and placement rules (Lighting designer)
Tunable and warm-dim scope: Choose where circadian or tunable light is justified (Owner)
Dimming protocol: Choose control signal per load type (Lighting designer)
Lighting control system: Select the control platform (Lighting designer)
Keypad locations and engraving: Finalize keypad locations, button counts and engraving (Lighting designer)
Scene and automation logic: Define scenes, vacancy, astronomic and alarm-tied behaviors (Lighting designer)
Dimmer locations and panels: Decide local dimmers versus centralized panels and location (Lighting designer)
LED tape application: Choose tape, channel and driving method (Lighting designer)
LED drivers and transformers: Locate remote drivers (Lighting designer)
Cove and indirect detail: Detail coves and reveals (Interior designer)
Decorative fixture junction boxes: Dimension each chandelier, pendant and sconce box from final decor (Interior designer)
Sconce and vanity layout: Set sconce heights and mirror-relationship (Interior designer)
Closet lighting: Light closets within clearance and cabinet layout (Interior designer)
Stair and path lighting: Choose step lights, risers or handrail lights (Lighting designer)
Exterior architectural lighting: Choose soffit and façade approach (Lighting designer)
Landscape lighting: Plan path, tree and dock lighting (Landscape architect)
Art and object lighting: Plan picture lighting and accent fixtures (Interior designer)
Coordinated reflected ceiling plan: Consolidate every ceiling device on one drawing (Interior designer)
Ceiling penetrations in insulated ceilings: Spec IC-rated air-tight housings or keep lights out of the top-floor thermal plane (Architect)
Wood or beamed ceiling lighting: Choose lighting method for exposed wood and beams (Interior designer)
Cabinet and shelf lighting: Light cabinets, displays and undercabinet task areas (Interior designer)
Bath wet-location fixtures: Confirm damp and wet ratings and code clearances (Interior designer)
Energy-code lighting compliance: Confirm high-efficacy requirement and controls (Electrician)
Mock-up: Test sample fixtures on site before ordering in bulk (Lighting designer)

Low-voltage

Integrator selection: Engage the AV and automation integrator during design (Owner)
Smart home platform: Choose the automation platform and how far it extends (Owner)
Rack and equipment location: Locate head-end rack with cooling and access (AV integrator)
Internet entrance: Plan ISP entry and redundancy (AV integrator)
Structured cabling: Set Cat6A, fiber and conduit standard (AV integrator)
Network hardware: Select switches, router and management (AV integrator)
Wi-Fi access points: Locate access points after a coverage study (AV integrator)
Backup power for electronics: Choose UPS scope (AV integrator)
Television locations: Set TV wall locations and mounting method (Interior designer)
Distributed audio: Decide streamed audio zones (Owner)
Speaker type: Choose in-ceiling, in-wall or invisible speakers (Interior designer)
Speaker locations: Fix speaker positions on the reflected ceiling plan (AV integrator)
Home theater: Decide on dedicated theater or media room scope (Owner)
Outdoor audio and video: Plan outdoor entertainment wiring (Owner)
Motorized shade type: Choose shade system by opening (Interior designer)
Shade pockets: Detail recessed pockets in ceiling or head (Interior designer)
Shade power: Choose wired or battery motors (AV integrator)
Security alarm: Choose alarm platform and monitoring (Owner)
Door and window sensors: Decide wired sensors in frames (AV integrator)
Cameras: Choose camera placement and recording (Owner)
Door station and intercom: Pick entry intercom and interior stations (Interior designer)
Access control and smart locks: Decide smart locks and access points (Interior designer)
Gate and drive sensors: Plan gate operators and vehicle detection (Owner)
Environmental and water sensors: Connect leak, freeze, sump and equipment monitoring (Owner)
Energy monitoring: Provide circuit-level energy data (Owner)
Cellular signal: Decide cellular booster or DAS (AV integrator)
Touchscreens and control interfaces: Decide on on-wall touchscreens versus handhelds (Interior designer)
Equipment concealment: Plan where source equipment sits at each TV and in millwork (Interior designer)
Service and documentation: Define support contract and system documentation (Owner)

Fire and life safety

Smoke alarms: Determine smoke alarm type, count and interconnection (Electrician)
Detector appearance and placement: Coordinate detectors on the reflected ceiling plan (Interior designer)
Carbon monoxide alarms: Place CO alarms for fuel-burning and attached garage conditions (Electrician)
Residential fire sprinklers: Decide whether to install voluntary sprinklers (Owner)
Garage separation penetrations: Keep ducts, pipes and wiring penetrations from defeating the garage fire separation (Architect)
Lightning protection: Decide on lightning protection for exposed sites (Owner)
Gas and leak alarm: Decide on combustible gas detection near appliances (Owner)
Emergency egress and power loss: Plan power-loss behavior for electrified doors, shades and locks (Architect)

Central vacuum

System decision: Decide whether to install central vacuum (Owner)
Power unit location: Locate the power unit (Central vac installer)
Inlet locations: Place inlets on elevations (Interior designer)
Piping route: Route tubing to avoid conflicts with duct and plumbing (Central vac installer)

Energy code

Governing code path: Confirm which residential and energy code editions apply on permit date (Building official)
Compliance method: Pick prescriptive, UA trade-off or performance path (Energy rater)
Airtightness target and air barrier: Set the air-leakage target and the air barrier location (Architect)
Envelope insulation levels: Set ceiling, wall and foundation insulation consistent with HVAC loads (Architect)
Duct location and tightness: Decide duct leakage target and test (Mechanical designer)
Mechanical ventilation compliance: Confirm ventilation rate calculation under code and ASHRAE 62.2 (Mechanical designer)
Above-code program: Decide whether to pursue a voluntary certification (Owner)
Utility and tax incentives: Identify rebates and credits before specifying equipment (Owner)

Commissioning

Commissioning scope: Decide who coordinates commissioning and what it covers (Owner)
MEP coordination walk: Hold a formal pre-rough-in and pre-drywall walk (GC)
Blower-door and duct testing: Schedule mid-construction and final testing (Energy rater)
HVAC startup and balancing: Require airflow verification and report (Mechanical designer)
Combustion safety test: Verify depressurization and venting at worst case (Energy rater)
Lighting aiming and programming: Reserve time for aiming and tuning at finishes complete (Lighting designer)
Water and plumbing verification: Test flow, temperature and treatment performance (Plumber)
Network and AV acceptance: Run acceptance tests for network and control (AV integrator)
Backup power transfer test: Test generator, ATS and critical loads under load (Electrician)
Seasonal recommissioning: Plan a return after the first heating and cooling seasons (Owner)
Documentation handover: Compile as-builts, manuals, valve tags and passwords (GC)

Finishes (241)

Floor plan

Structure: Which load-bearing walls to remove and how to carry the load (Structural engineer)
Spatial concept: Degree of openness between kitchen, dining and living (Owner with architect)
Circulation: Corridor and passage widths (Architect)
Sightlines: Primary axes and terminating views from entry and major doorways (Architect)
Stair location: Stair position and whether it is a showpiece or a service stair (Architect)
Wet-wall stacking: How bathrooms, laundry and kitchen stack vertically (Architect)
Wall thickness: Where to thicken walls for depth, pockets or niches (Architect)
Furniture plan: Furniture layout fixed before outlets, lighting and floor boxes (Interior designer)
Primary suite: Sequence of bedroom, bath and closets (Owner with architect)
Closets: Closet size and type by bedroom (Owner with interior designer)
Service zones: Mudroom, pantry, laundry and back-of-house adjacencies (Owner with architect)
Powder room: Location of the guest powder room (Architect)
Accessibility: How far to design for aging in place (Owner)
Floor levels: Whether to retain or remove floor-level changes (Architect)

Ceilings

Heights: Ceiling height by room and storey (Architect)
Treatment: Ceiling form by room (Architect with interior designer)
Coffers: Coffer grid, depth and material (Architect with interior designer)
Beams: Exposed beam material and whether structural (Architect with interior designer)
Wood ceiling: Wood ceiling species and profile (Interior designer)
Plaster detail: Plaster cove, medallions and run moldings (Interior designer)
Soffits: How ducts and drains are concealed in ceilings (Architect)
Ceiling devices: Device layout on reflected ceiling plan (Architect with interior designer)
Access panels: Access panel location and type (General contractor)
Ceiling finish: Ceiling surface finish (Interior designer)
Skylights: Skylight well shape and finish (Architect)

Flooring - hardwood

Species: Wood species (Owner with interior designer)
Cut: Sawing method (Interior designer)
Grade: Appearance grade (Interior designer)
Width: Board width and whether random or single (Interior designer)
Length: Board length program (Interior designer)
Construction: Solid or engineered (Flooring contractor)
Wear layer: Engineered wear layer and core (Flooring contractor)
Height: Total assembly height against adjacent floors (General contractor)
Finish location: Site-finished or prefinished (Interior designer)
Finish system: Topcoat chemistry (Flooring contractor)
Sheen: Floor sheen (Interior designer)
Color: Floor color and treatment (Owner with interior designer)
Pattern: Laying pattern (Interior designer)
Direction: Board direction by room (Flooring contractor)
Borders: Borders, feature strips and inlays (Interior designer)
Transitions: Transition detail between wood and other floors (Interior designer)
Subfloor: Subfloor build-up over joists (General contractor)
Underlayment: Underlayment under wood flooring (Flooring contractor)
Installation: Installation method (Flooring contractor)
Slab moisture: Slab testing and mitigation (Flooring contractor)
Acclimation: Acclimation protocol (Flooring contractor)
Climate control: Indoor humidity target and control (Owner with architect)
Radiant compatibility: Whether wood may go over radiant and what limits apply (HVAC designer)
Radiant controls: Floor-limiting sensors and data logging (HVAC designer)
Registers: Floor register and vent finish (Interior designer)
Attic stock: Attic stock of flooring (General contractor)

Flooring - tile, stone, carpet

Stone floors: Stone floor material and finish (Owner with interior designer)
Floor stiffness: Structural stiffness below tile and stone (Structural engineer)
Porcelain floors: Porcelain floor type (Interior designer)
Radiant under tile: Radiant system under tile or stone (HVAC designer)
Carpet: Carpet fiber and construction (Owner with interior designer)
Carpet pad: Carpet cushion type and density (Carpet installer)
Carpet seams: Seam location and installed edge (Carpet installer)
Stair runner: Stair runner design (Interior designer)
Rug insets: Whether rugs are recessed or laid on finished floors (Interior designer)
Mudroom floor: Hard-wearing floor in entries and mudrooms (Owner with interior designer)
Concrete floors: Polished or sealed concrete (Owner with architect)
Resilient floors: Resilient floor use in secondary spaces (Owner with interior designer)

Trim and millwork

Language: Overall trim language (Architect with interior designer)
Material: Trim material by paint or stain (General contractor)
Quality standard: Woodwork quality grade (Architect)
Base: Base height and profile (Interior designer)
Base shoe: Base shoe or scribed base (Interior designer)
Casing: Door and window casing width and profile (Interior designer)
Casing joint: Casing head treatment (Interior designer)
Crown: Crown location, size and profile (Interior designer)
Reveal: Reveal or shadow-gap trim (Architect)
Window returns: Window interior detail (Architect with interior designer)
Wainscot: Wainscot type and height (Interior designer)
Paneling: Full-height paneling (Interior designer)
Chair rail: Chair or picture rail (Interior designer)
Profile: Custom or stock knife profiles (Interior designer)
Pre-finish: Back-priming and shop-prefinishing (Millworker)
Trim acclimation: Trim delivery and moisture conditions (General contractor)
Blocking: Solid blocking for trim, paneling and accessories (General contractor)
Columns: Columns and cased openings (Architect with interior designer)

Interior doors

Style: Door panel configuration and sticking (Interior designer)
Height: Standard door height (Architect)
Core: Door core construction (General contractor)
Thickness: Door thickness (Interior designer)
Face material: Paint-grade or stain-grade door material (Interior designer)
Jamb: Jamb type (General contractor)
Pocket doors: Pocket door location and hardware (Architect)
Sliding doors: Barn, surface-slide or ceiling-hung sliders (Architect with interior designer)
Concealed doors: Jib or hidden doors (Architect with interior designer)
Door swing: Door swing and hinge side by opening (Architect)
Rated doors: Fire-rated and garage-separation doors (Architect)
Undercut: Door undercut and return-air path (HVAC designer)

Door and cabinet hardware

Product family: Door hardware manufacturer tier (Owner with interior designer)
Levers and knobs: Knob or lever and rose or plate (Owner with interior designer)
Mechanism: Tubular latch or mortise lock (Interior designer)
Hinges: Hinge type, size and count (General contractor)
Functions: Function by door (Interior designer)
Door stops: Door stop and holder type (Interior designer)
Cabinet pulls: Cabinet pull and knob selection (Interior designer)
Hardware placement: Cabinet hardware position standard (Interior designer)
Cabinet hardware: Concealed hinge and drawer slide specification (Cabinetmaker)
Electronic hardware: Electronic locks and access control in interiors (Owner)
Performance: Hardware performance grade and warranty (General contractor)
Keying: Keying plan (Owner)

Finish families

Metals strategy: Metal finish family across the house (Interior designer)
Living finishes: Lacquered or living finish (Owner)
Palette: Whole-house material palette board (Interior designer)
Schedule: Finish schedule ownership and format (Interior designer)
Mock-ups: Which finishes need full mock-ups (General contractor)

Stairs

Configuration: Stair form (Architect)
Geometry: Rise and run (Architect)
Treads: Tread material and thickness (Interior designer)
Nosing: Nosing profile and match to floor edge (Stair builder)
Risers: Riser finish (Interior designer)
Balusters: Baluster material and pattern (Interior designer)
Guards: Guard height and load strategy (Architect)
Handrail: Handrail profile and material (Interior designer)
Newels: Newel and volute design (Interior designer)
Skirt and stringer: Stringer expression (Architect)
Landings: Landing flooring treatment (Interior designer)
Stair lighting: Stair lighting approach (Lighting designer)
Squeak control: Tread attachment and squeak control (Stair builder)
Protection: Temporary stair use and protection (General contractor)

Drywall

Finish level: GA-214 level of finish by room (Architect)
Critical light: Identify critical-light walls and ceilings (Architect)
Board type: Board thickness and type by location (General contractor)
Framing tolerance: Wall and ceiling flatness tolerance before board (General contractor)
Corner bead: Corner bead and edge type (Architect)
Texture: Texture or smooth wall (Interior designer)
Control joints: Control joints and long-run walls (Architect)
Environment: Temperature and humidity control during taping (General contractor)

Plaster

System: Plaster system (Owner with architect)
Decorative finish: Decorative plaster finish (Interior designer)
Wet plaster: Decorative plaster inside wet zones (Interior designer)
Samples: Plaster sample boards and in-situ test (Interior designer)
Arches: Plaster arches and curved details (Architect)

Wall coverings

Type: Wall covering type by room (Interior designer)
Substrate: Wall preparation and liner (Wallcovering installer)
Pattern layout: Pattern repeat, centering and quantity (Wallcovering installer)
Moisture: Wall covering in humid rooms (Interior designer)
Upholstered walls: Upholstered or fabric walls (Interior designer)
Sequence: Wall covering installation sequence (General contractor)

Paint

Brand and line: Paint brand and line (Interior designer)
Wall sheen: Wall sheen by room (Interior designer)
Ceiling paint: Ceiling product, sheen and color (Interior designer)
Trim paint: Trim product and sheen (Interior designer)
Door color: Door paint treatment (Interior designer)
Color selection: Color by surface and room with light conditions (Owner with interior designer)
White strategy: Whole-house white strategy (Interior designer)
Application: Spray or brush and roll (Painter)
Primer: Primer system by substrate (Painter)
Air quality: Low-emission and cure requirements (Owner)
Existing coatings: Lead and hazardous coatings in remodels (General contractor)
Specialty areas: Specialty coatings for high-abuse areas (Interior designer)
Closeout: Touch-up kit and color record (General contractor)

Tile

Material: Tile material by room (Owner with interior designer)
Layout: Layout pattern and offset (Interior designer)
Grout joint: Grout joint width (Tile setter)
Layout drawings: Tile elevations and centering (Interior designer)
Grout: Grout type and color (Interior designer)
Edge: Tile edge treatment (Interior designer)
Waterproofing: Shower waterproofing system (General contractor)
Steam showers: Steam enclosure vapor and slope (Architect)
Setting materials: Mortar specification (Tile setter)
Substrate flatness: Substrate preparation and flatness (Tile setter)
Movement joints: Movement and soft joints (Tile setter)
Uncoupling: Crack isolation or uncoupling layer (Tile setter)
Drain: Shower drain type and floor slope (Architect)
Niches: Niche size and placement (Interior designer)
Benches: Shower bench construction (Architect)
Tile overage: Tile overage and storage (Tile setter)

Stone and countertops

Material: Countertop material by use (Owner)
Stone identity: Verify stone identity (Stone fabricator)
Slabs: Slab selection and holds (Owner)
Thickness: Slab thickness and edge build-up (Interior designer)
Edge profile: Edge profile (Interior designer)
Surface finish: Surface finish (Owner)
Seams: Seam location and vein match (Stone fabricator)
Waterfall and bookmatch: Waterfall ends and bookmatched features (Interior designer)
Backsplash: Backsplash height and material (Interior designer)
Overhang: Overhang and support (Stone fabricator)
Sink mounting: Sink and faucet deck details (Interior designer)
Vanity tops: Vanity top material and edge (Interior designer)
Sealing: Stone sealing and care plan (Stone fabricator)
Wall cladding: Slab wall cladding (Architect)
Fabrication health: Engineered stone and silica exposure (Owner)

Fireplaces

Type: Fireplace type (Owner with architect)
Scale: Firebox size and opening proportion (Architect with interior designer)
Surround: Surround material (Interior designer)
Mantel: Mantel form and clearance from opening (Interior designer)
Hearth extension: Hearth extension size and material (Architect)
Hearth height: Flush or raised hearth (Interior designer)
Factory-built: Factory-built unit listing and clearances (General contractor)
TV above: Television above fireplace (Owner)
Firebox interior: Firebox interior finish (Interior designer)
Controls: Gas ignition and control (Owner)
Wood storage: Wood niche and ash handling (Architect)

Built-ins and cabinetry

Construction: Construction type (Interior designer)
Finish: Shop finish system (Cabinetmaker)
Library: Library shelving design (Interior designer)
Media: Media wall design (Interior designer)
Mudroom lockers: Mudroom locker design (Interior designer)
Closets: Closet system approach (Interior designer)
Seating: Window seats and banquettes (Interior designer)
Integrated lighting: Integrated cabinet and shelf lighting (Lighting designer)
Scribes: Fit to walls and fillers (Cabinetmaker)
Field dimensioning: Field-verified measurements for shop drawings (General contractor)

Wood stain and sample process

Master sample: Designate a controlling master sample (Interior designer)
Sample process: Sample rounds and approval path (Interior designer)
Same lot: Sample on project wood lot (Millworker)
Color method: Coloring method (Finisher)
Sheen: Topcoat sheen across wood types (Interior designer)
Cross-trade match: Cross-trade match among floor, doors and cabinets (Interior designer)
Aging: Allow for UV and aging shift (Interior designer)
Step samples: Step board showing stain sequence (Finisher)

Sound insulation

Targets: Interior sound targets by room pair (Owner with architect)
Wall assembly: Sound wall assembly by location (Architect)
Cavity insulation: Cavity insulation type for sound (General contractor)
Floor-ceiling: Impact sound through floors (Architect)
Door seals: Acoustic door seals and thresholds (Architect)
Flanking: Flanking path control (General contractor)
Plumbing noise: Waste pipe noise (Plumber)
Media room: Room-within-room for media (Owner)
HVAC noise: HVAC duct noise and equipment isolation (HVAC designer)

Mirrors

Type: Mirror type at vanities (Interior designer)
Medicine cabinets: Recessed medicine cabinet framing (Architect)
Mirror lighting: Mirror and light integration (Lighting designer)
Edge and glass: Glass type and edge (Interior designer)
Mounting: Mounting method and adhesive (Glazier)
Defogging: Mirror defogger and tech (Owner)

Shower glass

Type: Enclosure type (Owner with interior designer)
Thickness: Glass thickness (Glazier)
Clarity: Glass clarity (Interior designer)
Coating: Protective coating (Owner)
Hardware: Hinge and handle system and finish (Interior designer)
Blocking: Wall support for hinges and clamps (General contractor)
Door swing: Door swing, curb and threshold (Architect)
Measure: Field measuring after tile (Glazier)
Seals: Seal and gap design (Glazier)
Safety compliance: Safety glazing compliance (Glazier)

Furnishings (222)

Space Planning

Living room: Choose the primary focal point and seating orientation (Interior Designer)
Living room: Set circulation paths and clear widths through the seating group (Interior Designer)
Living room: Fix seated capacity and the everyday-versus-entertaining split (Owner)
All rooms: Locate floor boxes and floor outlets for floating furniture (Interior Designer)
Dining room: Decide table orientation, and formal room versus open dining zone (Interior Designer)
Primary bedroom: Select bed wall and orientation (Interior Designer)
Primary bedroom: Determine sitting area and bench program (Interior Designer)
Entry: Define what the entry must do daily (Interior Designer)
Entry: Size the center table or console to the foyer (Interior Designer)
Nursery: Plan crib, changing and feeding zones for safety and later conversion (Interior Designer)
Office: Choose desk orientation and work setup (Interior Designer)
Porch: Program covered and open zones (Interior Designer)
All rooms: Decide how to prove the plan before ordering (Interior Designer)
All rooms: Verify delivery path for each oversized item (Project Manager)

Upholstery

Frame: Specify frame material and joinery (Interior Designer)
Support system: Select the seat spring system (Interior Designer)
Cushion fill: Choose seat cushion core and wrap (Owner)
Cushion style: Set the back and seat cushion configuration (Interior Designer)
Dimensions: Fix seat height and depth by user (Owner)
Comfort: Decide how seating comfort is validated (Owner)
COM/COL: Choose COM/COL or to-line fabric (Interior Designer)
COM/COL: Calculate yardage including repeat, railroading and attic stock (Workroom)
Fabric layout: Choose up-the-bolt or railroaded fabric direction (Workroom)
Fabric layout: Define pattern placement rules (Interior Designer)
Performance: Set the abrasion threshold by use (Interior Designer)
Performance: Decide which test method governs when vendors report differently (Interior Designer)
Performance: Specify light and crocking fastness (Interior Designer)
Performance: Match cleaning code to household reality (Interior Designer)
Performance fabric: Choose performance fabric technology (Interior Designer)
Leather: Specify leather type and finish (Interior Designer)
Flammability: Confirm federal residential flammability compliance (Fabricator)
Flammability: Decide on a no-added-flame-retardant specification (Owner)
Flammability: Determine whether any seating falls under a commercial or rental requirement (Interior Designer)
Cover system: Decide fixed upholstery or slipcovers (Interior Designer)
Detail: Specify welt, nailhead, skirt, and leg finish (Interior Designer)
Existing pieces: Decide to restore, reupholster or replace heirloom pieces (Owner)

Case Goods

Construction: Specify carcass and joinery grade (Interior Designer)
Finish: Select finish system and sheen (Interior Designer)
Finish: Require strike-off or finish samples on actual species (Interior Designer)
Hardware: Choose drawer glides and pulls (Interior Designer)
Safety: Verify clothing storage tip-over compliance (Interior Designer)
Safety: Set wall blocking for anchoring tall pieces (Project Manager)
Materials: Confirm composite wood formaldehyde compliance (Interior Designer)
Tops: Choose stone or surface for tables and consoles (Interior Designer)
Media: Specify media console ventilation and cable routing (Interior Designer)
Sourcing: Decide share of antique and vintage case goods (Interior Designer)

Custom vs Stock

Procurement: Decide the custom-versus-stock ratio per room (Interior Designer)
Custom process: Require shop drawings for custom pieces (Interior Designer)
Custom process: Require a Cutting For Approval from fabric lots (Interior Designer)
Procurement: Decide acceptable non-cancellable commitments (Owner)
Procurement: Set country-of-origin and tariff exposure rules (Budget Lead)

Dining

Table: Size the table to the seat count (Interior Designer)
Table: Choose table shape (Interior Designer)
Table: Choose base and leaf system (Interior Designer)
Table: Select table top material for use (Owner)
Chairs: Set chair dimensions and clearance to apron (Interior Designer)
Chairs: Choose dining chair seat covering (Interior Designer)
Banquette: Decide banquette and built-in seating details (Interior Designer)
Storage: Select serving piece and china storage (Interior Designer)

Beds and Mattresses

Bed: Select bed size by room and sleepers (Owner)
Mattress: Choose mattress construction (Owner)
Mattress: Confirm mattress flammability compliance (Interior Designer)
Bed base: Select foundation system (Interior Designer)
Headboard: Decide headboard construction and height (Interior Designer)
Nightstand: Fix nightstand height, width and power (Interior Designer)
Bed: Set overall sleeping surface height (Owner)
Guest beds: Plan guest and bunk configuration (Interior Designer)
Nursery: Specify a certified crib and mattress (Owner)
Nursery: Decide what stays out of the sleep space (Owner)

Rugs

Construction: Select rug construction (Interior Designer)
Fiber: Choose pile fiber (Interior Designer)
Size: Size the living room rug to furniture (Interior Designer)
Size: Size the dining rug (Interior Designer)
Size: Set rug layout in bedrooms (Interior Designer)
Size: Decide area rug or wall-to-wall carpet (Interior Designer)
Pad: Specify rug pad type and thickness (Interior Designer)
Pad: Require low-emission cushion (Interior Designer)
Installation: Plan transitions and door clearances (Installer)
Outdoor: Choose outdoor rug and drainage (Interior Designer)
Custom: Require a strike-off or color poms on custom rugs (Interior Designer)
Maintenance: Set rotation, cleaning, and moth plan (Owner)

Window Treatments

Strategy: Decide the layering strategy by room (Interior Designer)
Drapery: Calculate stack back and rod extension (Workroom)
Hardware: Coordinate recessed pocket or drapery cove (Architect)
Hardware: Install blocking for treatments and hardware (Project Manager)
Drapery: Set fullness (Workroom)
Drapery: Choose heading style (Interior Designer)
Drapery: Set the finished length and break (Interior Designer)
Drapery: Specify lining and interlining (Workroom)
Fabric: Choose window textile for sun and humidity (Interior Designer)
Drapery: Assign field measure and timing (Project Manager)
Shades: Select shade type (Interior Designer)
Shades: Choose openness and solar fabric for roller shades (Interior Designer)
Shades: Specify bedroom blackout approach (Interior Designer)
Motorization: Select motorization platform (AV/Automation Integrator)
Motorization: Decide wired, battery or plug-in power per shade (AV/Automation Integrator)
Motorization: Program shade schedules and sun tracking (AV/Automation Integrator)
Motorization: Locate keypads and engrave labels (AV/Automation Integrator)
Hardware: Select drapery rod and track finish (Interior Designer)
Safety: Eliminate operating cords in kid and pet rooms (Interior Designer)
Exterior shading: Decide whether to add exterior or porch shades (Interior Designer)
Top treatments: Decide on cornice, valance or none (Interior Designer)

Decorative Lighting

Strategy: Set the decorative layer relative to architectural lighting (Lighting Designer)
Chandelier: Size chandelier diameter (Lighting Designer)
Chandelier: Set dining fixture hang height (Lighting Designer)
Chandelier: Set foyer fixture height, size and sightline (Lighting Designer)
Chandelier: Fix junction box location and structural support (Electrician)
Chandelier: Decide lamp replacement access in high ceilings (Lighting Designer)
Chandelier: Coordinate canopy, chain and stem finish (Lighting Designer)
Sconces: Set sconce mounting heights and centerlines (Lighting Designer)
Sconces: Choose bedside sconce versus lamp, and switching (Interior Designer)
Lamps: Plan table and floor lamp program by seat (Interior Designer)
Lamp shades: Specify lamp shade shape, material and finish (Interior Designer)
Lamps: Decide custom lamps from antique or found objects (Interior Designer)
Bulbs: Set color temperature and rendering (Lighting Designer)
Bulbs: Select lamp type and base by fixture (Lighting Designer)
Controls: Confirm dimmer compatibility (Lighting Designer)
Compliance: Confirm listings on imported and antique fixtures (Electrician)
Art lighting: Choose art illumination (Lighting Designer)
Finish: Coordinate metal finish families (Interior Designer)
Exterior: Rate exterior decorative fixtures (Lighting Designer)
Porch: Decide porch fan and lighting (Interior Designer)

Pillows and Bedding

Decorative pillows: Choose decorative pillow insert (Interior Designer)
Decorative pillows: Plan sofa pillow composition (Interior Designer)
Decorative pillows: Decide pillow fabric and closure (Interior Designer)
Bedding: Select sheet weave and fiber (Owner)
Bedding: Choose top-of-bed layering and weights (Interior Designer)
Bedding: Decide monogram, embroidery and custom banding (Owner)
Bedding: Define guest linen sets and par levels (Owner)
Bedding: Set throw program for chairs and bedrooms (Interior Designer)

Wall Art and Hanging

Program: Decide the art program and source (Owner)
Hanging: Set the hanging height rule (Interior Designer)
Hanging: Size art relative to furniture and wall (Interior Designer)
Hanging: Add wall blocking for heavy art and mirrors (Project Manager)
Mirrors: Choose mirror type and placement (Interior Designer)
Hanging: Decide gallery wall layout method (Interior Designer)
Framing: Specify frame, mat and depth (Conservator/Framer)
Framing: Select glazing (Conservator/Framer)
Conservation: Set light exposure limits by medium (Conservator/Framer)
Conservation: Set climate targets for art and antiques (Owner)
Conservation: Exclude art from high-risk locations (Conservator/Framer)
Administration: Decide inventory, appraisal and insurance (Owner)

Accessories

Books and objects: Decide bookshelf styling method (Interior Designer)
Objects: Set the sourcing plan for vintage objects and ceramics (Interior Designer)
Surfaces: Plan cocktail table and console composition (Stylist)
Surfaces: Decide who maintains styling after install (Owner)
Safety: Set placement rules for breakable and heavy objects (Owner)
Ambient: Decide scent, candle and fireplace accessory policy (Owner)
Fireplace: Style mantel and hearth accessories (Stylist)

Tabletop

Dinnerware: Select formal and everyday dinnerware (Owner)
Flatware: Choose flatware material and weight (Owner)
Glassware: Pick stemware and glass counts (Owner)
Table linen: Set linens and drops (Interior Designer)
Table: Plan centerpiece height rule (Stylist)
Storage: Define storage for formal tabletop (Owner)

Outdoor and Lake Environment

Frames: Select outdoor frame material (Interior Designer)
Frames: Require drainage on hollow frames and cushions (Interior Designer)
Fabric: Specify outdoor textile (Interior Designer)
Cushions: Choose cushion core for wet zones (Interior Designer)
Winter: Plan winter strategy for furniture and cushions (Owner)
Winter: Specify furniture covers (Interior Designer)
Wood: Decide teak finish and aging (Owner)
Lake exposure: Plan for lake wind on furniture (Interior Designer)
Dock: Choose dock and boathouse furniture (Owner)
Lake exposure: Plan for insects, spiders and bird droppings (Interior Designer)
Dining: Pick outdoor dining table surface (Interior Designer)
Shade: Choose umbrella or pergola shade (Interior Designer)
Fire and heat: Choose fire feature furniture layout (Interior Designer)
Winter: Allocate seasonal storage in the architecture (Architect)

Plants

Program: Decide real, preserved or high-end faux plants by location (Owner)
Safety: Screen plant species for pets and children (Owner)
Containers: Specify planter and liner protection (Florist/Plant Specialist)
Care: Decide plant care arrangements (Owner)
Outdoor: Choose outdoor planters for freeze (Landscape Designer)

Sound Absorption

Strategy: Set acoustic goals room by room (Interior Designer)
Finishes: Quantify soft-surface contribution (Acoustic Consultant)
Treatments: Decide on integrated acoustic panels (Acoustic Consultant)
Dining: Treat dining noise (Interior Designer)
Media: Specify media room soft treatments (AV/Automation Integrator)
Noise sources: Consider noise of furnishings hardware (Interior Designer)

Seasonal Homes

Closed-house: Set closed-house temperature and humidity plan (Owner)
Closed-house: Plan pest protection for textiles and food stores (Owner)
Reopening: Define opening and closing routine (Owner)
Inventory: Decide duplicates versus travel between homes (Owner)
Closed-house: Protect interiors from UV while unoccupied (Owner)
Use: Decide whether the home will be rented (Owner)
Styling: Plan seasonal dressing swaps (Interior Designer)

Pet and Kid Durability

Program: Declare which rooms are pet- and kid-proof by design (Owner)
Fabric: Reject fabric structures vulnerable to claws (Interior Designer)
Fabric: Choose color and pattern to hide wear (Interior Designer)
Rugs: Set rug durability specs for pets and kids (Interior Designer)
Furniture: Screen sharp edges and glass (Interior Designer)
Finishes: Pick wood finish tolerance for dogs (Interior Designer)
Safety: Control cords, magnets, small parts (Owner)
Mudroom: Plan wet-dog and swimsuit landing zones (Interior Designer)

Sustainability and VOCs

Program: Set the health and environmental policy (Owner)
Certification: Require low-emitting furniture certification where feasible (Interior Designer)
Materials: Set wood sourcing rules (Interior Designer)
Materials: Define textile chemistry requirements (Interior Designer)
Installation: Plan off-gassing and flush-out window (Project Manager)
Circularity: Set reuse target (Interior Designer)
Materials: Choose foam and fill chemistries (Interior Designer)
Logistics: Plan packaging waste and receiver handling (Project Manager)

Budget Tier

Tier: Set the overall FF&E budget tier per room (Owner)
Allocation: Identify splurge and save items (Owner)
Fees: Set designer compensation and pricing transparency (Owner)
Contingency: Set FF&E contingency and soft costs (Budget Lead)
Payments: Define deposit and payment terms (Owner)
Phasing: Phase furnishing for move-in priorities (Owner)
Tracking: Decide the procurement tracking tool (Project Manager)

Styling and Installation

Documentation: Establish FF&E tagging and spec book (Project Manager)
Documentation: Define owner sign-off gates (Interior Designer)
Logistics: Select receiving and warehousing (Project Manager)
Scheduling: Set install date sequence relative to construction (Project Manager)
Logistics: Specify floor and wall protection on install day (Installer)
Quality: Set damage inspection and punch list method (Project Manager)
Styling: Choose install format and owner reveal (Interior Designer)
Styling: Prepare the stylist's kit and returns process (Stylist)
Styling: Decide photography and publication (Owner)
Handover: Build owner care manual and warranty file (Project Manager)
Handover: Define attic stock retention (Interior Designer)
Handover: Plan post-occupancy review (Interior Designer)

Exterior (210)

Lot and site

Lot selection: Does this parcel support the intended house once regulatory limits are mapped? (Owner)
Boundary and topographic survey: What survey scope is commissioned? (Architect)
Title, easements, riparian rights: Which title and riparian issues must be resolved before design? (Owner)
Zoning and overlays: Which zoning path does the design follow? (Owner)
Architectural review: Is a design review body involved, and when is it engaged? (Owner)
House siting: Where does the footprint sit relative to bluff, dune crest and existing trees? (Owner)
Solar and lake orientation: How are primary rooms oriented when lake view and solar access conflict? (Owner)
Wind exposure strategy: How is the massing shaped against prevailing onshore wind? (Architect)
Existing vegetation: Which trees and dune vegetation are preserved? (Owner)
Tree protection plan: What protection and enforcement applies during construction? (General contractor)
Construction access and staging: How do equipment and materials reach a constrained lakeside site? (General contractor)
Water supply: Municipal water or private well? (Owner)
Wastewater: Municipal sewer or on-site system, and which system type? (Owner)
Utility service routing: Are power, gas and communications overhead or underground, and where? (Owner)
Backup power: Is standby generation or battery storage provided, and where is it sited? (Owner)

Setbacks, dunes and erosion

HREA status: Is any part of the parcel in a designated High Risk Erosion Area? (EGLE (determination); Owner (response))
HREA setback basis: Which structure class and setback applies? (EGLE)
Erosion margin: How far beyond the legal minimum does the owner set back? (Owner)
Critical dune determination: Is the parcel in a mapped Critical Dune Area, and is the map current? (EGLE or local unit administering Part 353)
Foredune and crest position: Where is the building relative to the first lakeward slope and crest? (EGLE or local unit administering Part 353)
Dune slope constraints: How do measured slopes shape footprint and access? (Architect)
Special exception or variance: Is a variance or special exception sought? (Owner)
Dune restabilization: What restabilization and planting method does the permit require? (Landscape architect)
Bluff stabilization: Is engineered bluff stabilization needed? (Owner)
Shore protection: Is a revetment, seawall or other shore protection built? (Owner)
Lake level design basis: What high-water and storm-surge elevation does the design assume? (Owner)
Floodplain: Does any part of the work fall in a mapped flood hazard area? (Owner)
Wetlands and regulated features: Are wetlands or streams on or adjacent to the parcel? (Owner)
Soil erosion control permit: What SESC permit and controls are required? (General contractor)

Grading and drainage

Geotechnical investigation: What scope of subsurface investigation is commissioned? (Structural engineer)
Finished floor elevation: What is the main-floor elevation? (Architect)
Mass grading strategy: How much earth is cut, filled or kept? (Civil engineer)
Surface drainage: How is water directed away from the house? (Civil engineer)
Roof water discharge: Where do downspouts ultimately discharge? (Civil engineer)
Stormwater management: What on-site retention does the jurisdiction or site require? (Civil engineer)
Groundwater control: How is the water table managed around the foundation? (Structural engineer)
Retaining walls: What retaining system is used for grade changes? (Landscape architect)

Foundation

Foundation type: Which foundation system supports the house? (Structural engineer)
Moveable foundation: Is the structure designed to be relocated if erosion advances? (Owner)
Frost protection: How are footings protected from frost? (Structural engineer)
Foundation wall system: What is the wall system? (Structural engineer)
Basement ceiling height: What clear height is the basement? (Owner)
Basement slab: What goes under and into the basement slab? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Radon: What radon approach is built in? (Owner)
Crawlspace strategy: If a crawl is used, is it conditioned or vented? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Stepped footings on slope: How are footings stepped across a sloped site? (Structural engineer)

Basement and walkout

Walkout configuration: How does the basement meet grade on the lake side? (Owner)
Walkout glazing: What openings go in the walkout wall? (Architect)
Egress: How do lower-level bedrooms meet egress? (Architect)
Window wells: What window-well style is specified where needed? (Architect)
Lower-level exterior door: How is the walkout door protected against weather and water? (Architect)

Waterproofing

Below-grade waterproofing: Which membrane system goes on foundation walls? (Structural engineer)
Drainage plane: What drainage layer goes against the foundation? (Structural engineer)
Footing drain: How is the footing drain laid and terminated? (Structural engineer)
Foundation exterior insulation: Where does foundation insulation go? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Stone veneer base transition: How does water get out at the base of the veneer? (Architect)
Under-deck waterproofing: Is the space below an upper deck waterproofed for finished use? (Architect)

Framing systems

Wall framing: What exterior wall assembly is used? (Architect)
Floor framing: What floor system is used? (Structural engineer)
Roof framing: Are roofs framed with trusses, rafters or a hybrid? (Structural engineer)
Lateral system: How are wind loads resisted across large glass walls? (Structural engineer)
Snow load design: What ground snow load and drift assumptions are used? (Structural engineer)
Exposed structural steel: Is steel concealed or exposed? (Architect)
Sheathing and structural panel: Which sheathing goes on walls and roof? (Structural engineer)
Winter construction: How is framing and concrete protected during winter? (General contractor)

Ceiling heights and openings

Main floor ceiling height: What ceiling height applies on the main floor? (Owner)
Upper floor ceiling height: What is the upper-floor ceiling? (Owner)
Vaults and exposed ceilings: Which rooms have vaulted or exposed structure? (Owner)
Header and beam strategy: Are headers dropped or flush, and how deep? (Structural engineer)
Large opening deflection limits: What deflection limit applies above multi-panel doors? (Structural engineer)
Rough opening dimensions: When are rough openings frozen and from what data? (Architect)

Roof form and pitch

Primary roof form: What overall roof form does the house use? (Owner)
Roof pitch: What pitch do principal roofs take? (Architect)
Snow shedding geometry: Where does sliding snow land? (Architect)
Eave and overhang depth: How deep are the eaves? (Architect)
Roof ventilation strategy: Are roofs vented or unvented? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Low-slope and flat roofs: Which membrane serves flat areas? (Architect)
Roof-mounted solar: Is solar planned now or provisioned for later? (Owner)

Roofing materials

Roofing material: What is the primary roof covering? (Owner)
Metal roof specification: If metal, what gauge, panel and finish? (Architect)
Slate or shake sourcing: If slate or shake is used, what source and grade? (Architect)
Underlayment: What underlayment goes under the primary roof? (Roofing contractor)
Ice barrier extent: How far upslope does the ice barrier run? (Roofing contractor)
Roof wind rating: What wind rating and fastening schedule applies? (Roofing contractor)
Roof color and reflectance: What color does the roof take? (Owner)
Ridge and hip details: What ridge and hip treatment is specified? (Roofing contractor)
Snow retention: Are snow guards used, and which type? (Architect)
Roof heat cables: Are heat cables or heated gutters planned? (Envelope/energy consultant)

Flashing and gutters

Flashing material: What flashing metal is used throughout? (Architect)
Kickout flashing: Where are kickouts needed and how are they formed? (General contractor)
Step and counterflashing: How is roof-to-wall flashing detailed? (Architect)
Valley style: What valley is built? (Roofing contractor)
Window and door flashing: What sequence and products are used at openings? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Gutter style: Which gutter system is used? (Architect)
Gutter sizing and leader count: What gutter size and leader spacing are used? (Roofing contractor)
Integrated or box gutters: If integrated gutters are used, how are they lined and heated? (Architect)
Downspout location: Where do downspouts land visually and physically? (Architect)
Gutter guards: Are gutter guards used? (Owner)

Skylights and chimneys

Skylight use: Are skylights used and on which planes? (Owner)
Skylight curbs and flashing: What curb and flashing are used? (Roofing contractor)
Chimney type: Are chimneys masonry, prefabricated or absent? (Owner)
Chimney cladding and cap: How is the chimney clad and capped? (Architect)
Chimney cricket: Is a cricket needed behind wide chimneys? (Roofing contractor)
Plumbing and mechanical penetrations: Where do vents and penetrations land on the roof? (Architect)

Insulation and air barrier

Energy performance target: What overall energy target is set? (Owner)
Air barrier strategy: Which layer is the primary air barrier? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Blower door target: What airtightness target and testing regime applies? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Water-resistive barrier: Which WRB system is used? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Rainscreen: Is a ventilated rainscreen gap provided? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Wall insulation: What insulation is in the walls? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Exterior continuous insulation: How much exterior insulation is added and with which material? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Roof insulation level: What R-value and method is used in the roof? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Vapor control: What interior vapor control is specified? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Thermal bridging at glazing and balconies: How are structural thermal bridges managed? (Structural engineer)

Windows

Window frame material: What frame material is used? (Owner)
Window manufacturer and line: Which manufacturer and product line is specified? (Owner)
Performance grade: What structural rating is required for each opening? (Structural engineer)
Finish durability: Does the lake exposure justify a higher-grade finish? (Architect)
Window profile and sightline: What frame profile and sightline does the design want? (Architect)
Operation types: What operating types go where? (Architect)
Divided lites: Are divided lites used and of what type? (Architect)
Grille pattern: What pattern and bar width is used? (Architect)
Glazing configuration: What glass package is specified? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Solar control coatings: What coating and SHGC applies by elevation? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Bird-safe glazing: Is bird-collision mitigation included on lake-facing glass? (Owner)
Tempered and safety glass: Which units need safety glazing? (Architect)
Hardware finish: What window hardware finish is used? (Architect)
Window color exterior: What exterior cladding color is selected? (Owner)
Window color interior: What interior frame finish is specified? (Owner)
Screens: What screens are specified? (Owner)
Window installation depth: Where do windows sit in the wall depth? (Envelope/energy consultant)
Field testing: Are installed windows water-tested? (Envelope/energy consultant)

Exterior doors

Entry door material: What is the entry door made of? (Owner)
Entry door size and pivot: Is it a standard swing or an oversized or pivot door? (Owner)
Lake-facing door system: What door system opens to the lake view? (Owner)
Threshold approach: Flush threshold or stepped? (Architect)
Door hardware: What exterior door hardware and locks are used? (Owner)
Storm or vestibule strategy: Is there an airlock or storm door for winter? (Architect)

Garage and doors

Garage placement and form: Is the garage attached, detached or lower level? (Owner)
Garage capacity and depth: How many bays, how deep, and what special height? (Owner)
Garage door material: What door material and construction is used? (Owner)
Garage door wind and opener: What opener type and wind reinforcement is specified? (General contractor)
Garage conditioning: Is the garage heated or insulated? (Owner)
Garage slab and drainage: What is the slab slope, drain plan and de-icer protection? (General contractor)
EV charging and garage power: What EV and equipment power is provided? (Owner)

Siding, masonry and stone

Primary cladding: What is the primary exterior cladding? (Owner)
Cedar species and grade: If wood, what species, grade and factory finish? (Owner)
Cedar weathering approach: Is wood allowed to weather or is it finished? (Owner)
Fiber cement product zone: Which product line and installation rules apply? (General contractor)
Siding clearance planning: Are clearances designed in at decks, roofs and grade? (Architect)
Stone type and source: What natural stone is specified? (Owner)
Stone veneer attachment: Is veneer full-bed anchored or thin-adhered? (Structural engineer)
Mortar joint and pointing: What joint profile and mortar type is used? (Architect)
Masonry sill and cap details: How are stone sills, caps and weeps detailed? (Architect)
Material transitions: Where do materials change and how are they joined? (Architect)
Sand and salt abrasion: Does the windward face need abrasion-resistant materials? (Architect)

Trim, soffit and fascia

Trim material: What exterior trim material is used? (Architect)
Window and door casing: What exterior casing profile is used? (Architect)
Soffit material and ventilation: What soffit material and vent pattern is specified? (Architect)
Fascia and rake: What fascia and rake detail is specified? (Architect)
Exterior columns and brackets: What are columns and brackets built from? (Architect)

Exterior paint and finish

Exterior palette: What colors go on the exterior? (Owner)
Paint system: What coating system and prep is specified? (Architect)
Mockup requirement: Are full-size finish mockups required? (Owner)

Exterior lighting

Lighting strategy: What is the exterior lighting concept? (Owner)
Dark-sky compliance: Is dark-sky shielding adopted? (Lighting designer)
Fixture material: What fixture materials are specified? (Lighting designer)
Color temperature and controls: What CCT and control system is used? (Lighting designer)
Wiring and transformer plan: Where do lines, transformers and junctions go? (Lighting designer)

Decks, porches and patios

Deck structure: What supports the deck? (Structural engineer)
Deck surface: What is the deck surface material? (Owner)
Deck setback and permit status: Do decks and stairs comply with setbacks and shoreline permits? (Owner)
Beach stair and access: How is beach access built over a dune or bluff? (Owner)
Porch type: Which porches are built, and are any screened or enclosed? (Owner)
Porch ceiling and floor: What finishes go on porch ceiling and floor? (Architect)
Patio surface: What is the patio surface? (Landscape architect)
Patio base and heating: What sub-base and snowmelt is provided? (Landscape architect)
Railing type: What railing system is used? (Owner)
Railing attachment: How are posts anchored without breaching waterproofing? (Structural engineer)

Driveway and walkways

Driveway alignment: What route and grade does the driveway take? (Owner)
Driveway surface: What is the driveway paved with? (Owner)
Driveway snow strategy: How is snow cleared and where does it go? (Owner)
Motor court and turnaround: What arrival and turning geometry is built? (Landscape architect)
Apron and road connection: What approval governs the driveway connection? (General contractor)
Walkway surface and layout: What paths connect arrival and beach? (Landscape architect)
Exterior stairs and steps: What rise, tread and heating applies to exterior steps? (Landscape architect)

Landscape and irrigation

Landscape concept: What landscape character is designed? (Owner)
Planting palette: What species palette is used? (Landscape architect)
Topsoil and amendments: How are sandy soils amended? (Landscape architect)
Irrigation system: Is permanent irrigation installed? (Owner)
Irrigation winterization: How is the system drained and protected? (General contractor)
Windbreak and privacy planting: Where are screens and windbreaks placed? (Landscape architect)

Pool, spa and outdoor living

Pool feasibility: Is a pool possible on this site? (Owner)
Pool structure: What structure and shell is used? (Structural engineer)
Pool heating and cover: What heating and cover are specified? (Owner)
Spa and cold plunge: What spa and cold plunge features? (Owner)
Outdoor kitchen: What outdoor kitchen level is built? (Owner)
Outdoor heating: How are outdoor rooms heated? (Owner)
Fencing and enclosures: What fencing, gates and dog enclosures are used? (Owner)
Mechanical yard screening: How are AC, generator and pool equipment screened? (Architect)

Docks and boathouse

Water body classification: Which regime applies to the frontage: Great Lakes or inland? (EGLE)
Dock type: What dock is built? (Owner)
Boat lift and mooring: How are boats stored or moored? (Owner)
Boathouse: Is a boathouse built, and where? (Owner)
Seasonal storage plan: Where does seasonal dock and lift equipment winter? (Owner)

Snow, ice and lake-effect conditions

Entry snow protection: How are doors kept clear of drifts? (Architect)
Mechanical intake and vent protection: How are intakes and vents kept above snow? (Architect)
Vacant-season protection: How is the home protected if left empty in winter? (Owner)
Winter site maintenance plan: Who handles roof snow, ice and drive clearing? (Owner)
Roof access and fall protection: How will the roof be safely accessed for maintenance? (Architect)

From the Residential Design Atlas research catalog. Each card is labeled as a published source or as synthesis. Who decides is the typical split on a high-end custom home, not a rule. Lead times are ranges, not quotes.

Why firms partner on this

A designer does not just pick finishes. They hold the order: which decisions come first, which ones lock before the walls close, and which long-lead items have to be ordered months ahead. Leave that to chance, and a missed date becomes a torn-out wall, a reordered slab or a delayed move-in.

See your own project’s decisions, in order, with dates.

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