Do you build custom homes or only handle renovations?

We do both. New Explode Construction builds custom homes and delivers full home renovations throughout the Chicago area. 

Most of our work involves projects where structure, layout, systems, and design all need to come together thoughtfully before construction begins. These are often projects where early planning, coordination, and execution have a major impact on the final outcome.

We are typically brought in for projects that require a higher level of involvement, attention to detail, and collaboration from the beginning.

What makes New Explode Construction different from other design-build firms?

We become involved earlier and stay closely engaged throughout the life of the project. 

Our role goes beyond managing construction. We help align design intent with how the project will actually be built, identifying potential issues early, coordinating across trades and systems, and bringing structure to complex decisions before they reach the field.

That early involvement creates better clarity, stronger execution, and a more controlled building process overall.

Where do you step in that others typically don’t?

We often step in during the stage where ideas still need to be translated into a buildable plan. 

That may include evaluating existing conditions, identifying structural or systems conflicts, helping align budgets with scope, and coordinating details that are often overlooked until construction is already underway.

By resolving those issues early, the project can move forward with fewer surprises and better alignment between design, budget, and execution.

What types of projects are you the right fit for?

We are the right fit for custom homes and full-scale renovations that require thoughtful planning, detailed coordination, and a high level of execution. 

Many of our projects involve structural modifications, complex layouts, integrated systems, or close collaboration with architects and designers.

We are typically not the right fit for cosmetic-only updates or projects centered primarily around finish selections.

What does a project like this typically cost?

Every project is different, and pricing is heavily influenced by scope, complexity, level of finish, and existing conditions. 

In many homes, the real investment is not only in what you see, but in what needs to be resolved behind the walls - structure, mechanical systems, layout changes, and overall coordination.

We provide early budget guidance during the planning phase, with more detailed pricing developed through pre-construction as the project becomes fully defined.

How long does a custom home or full renovation take?

Timelines depend on the scope of work, permitting, design development, and the level of complexity involved. 

Some projects move quickly, while others require more extensive planning and coordination before construction begins. Larger custom homes and full renovations can often span many months or more than a year from planning to completion.

Once the scope and sequencing are clearly established, we develop a realistic construction schedule designed around the specific needs of the project.

When should I involve New Explode Construction in the project?

As early as possible. 

The earlier we are involved, the more value we can bring to the project through feasibility guidance, budgeting, constructibility review, and coordination before major decisions are finalized.

Early involvement helps create clarity from the beginning and often prevents costly changes or delays later in construction.

What happens during pre-construction?

Pre-construction is where the project truly begins to take shape. 

This phase is focused on understanding the home, refining the scope, coordinating systems and structural requirements, reviewing pricing, aligning expectations, and identifying potential challenges before work begins.

For us, pre-construction is not simply paperwork or estimating. It is the foundation for how the project will be executed, and one of the most important phases in creating a successful outcome.

How do you handle complexity in projects like this?

We believe complexity is best handled early, not reacted to later. 

Our approach is centered around planning, coordination, communication, and resolving issues before they impact construction in the field. That includes working closely with architects, designers, engineers, and trade partners throughout the process.

The goal is to create a project that feels organized, intentional, and well managed from start to finish, even when the work itself is highly detailed or technically demanding.

How involved is your team during construction?

1. We stay closely involved throughout construction and maintain active oversight across the project as work progresses. 

That includes coordination between trades, schedule management, field communication, quality control, and ongoing decision-making as conditions evolve.

Our team remains hands-on throughout the process to help ensure the project stays aligned with the overall vision, scope, and level of execution expected.

Why does your process matter to the outcome of the project?

Because successful projects are shaped long before the finishes go in. 

The quality of the outcome is heavily influenced by the planning, coordination, communication, and decisions made throughout the process. When those elements are handled thoughtfully from the beginning, construction tends to move more efficiently, with better alignment and fewer unexpected issues along the way.

Our process is designed to create that level of clarity and control from the start.

Do you work with architects and interior designers?

All the time. 

Some clients already have a full team in place. Others come to us first and build the team afterward. We are comfortable collaborating either way.