Frequently Asked Questions

  • Wise Design & Remodel is located in St Paul. We serve homes in St. Paul, Minneapolis and local suburbs.

  • Yes! Our primary focus is interior remodeling. The additions we work on typically include enlarging a Kitchen or Primary Suite.

  • Yes! From roofing to siding or widow replacement, we can help freshen your curb appeal.

  • We will consider this on a case by case basis and have certainly worked with clients who came to us with existing plans for a remodel. Ultimately, however, as a Design-Build firm with our own in-house architect, our business model will always necessitate a comprehensive design process that is much more all-encompassing than simply adopting and implementing pre-existing plans.

  • No, we do not take on new construction projects.

  • This depends on the complexity of the project. However, we generally see the design process take 1-3 months, much of that depending on the homeowner's participation and approach to finalizing selections, approving the final plans and scope of work.

    Once we go into production, the construction phase typically lasts 2-4 months, again depending on the scope of the work and time of year.

    We try to keep continuity without breaks until all is completed.

  • Ballparks are rough estimates and they are not guaranteed. We can’t tell you what your project will actually cost until we determine the scope, design and selections. However, we can share the range of prices for recent projects we’ve completed similar to yours and typically we give you a budget range after the initial consultation.

  • The initial consultation is usually done in-person at your home, we normally spend 1-2 hours looking at the home, inquiring more about your vision and goals and offering a range of ideas/solutions with general cost implications.

    If you decide you'd like to learn more and continue the conversation in our showroom, we'll invite you in to see examples of products we use and learn more about our process. After those complimentary consultative meetings, you will decide if you want to move forward with our company.

  • After the initial phone call and complimentary consultative meetings, you should have enough information on timeline, budget and our company to determine if we're a good fit, at which point you'll commit to the design phase (with one-time fee, quoted at the consultation). We will then embark of the several-week process of drafting the plans, confirming the design and selections, finalizing the budget, and signing a contract to proceed with the implementation.

  • Like most general contractors, Wise Design cultivates long-term, trusted business relationships with preferred electrical, plumbing, HVAC, insulation, and other specialists. However, project management and most of the carpentry work is done in house by our own employees.

  • During the design phase of a major remodel we will provide floor plans, elevations and 3D renderings using CAD software to help you visualize the new space. This is a collaborative process and really helps in making decisions.

  • Good insulation and selection of sustainable materials are some of the factors to consider. We favor low – or no formaldehyde products and low VOC coatings. We recommend heated, hard-surface flooring over carpeting for easy cleaning and air quality. EPA WaterSense rated plumbing fixtures save water. EPA Energy Star rated appliances conserve electricity. Timeless design and durable materials also support sustainability. We try to minimize waste. Re purposing and installing your old kitchen cabinets in your garage or workshop can save use of landfills.

    We encourage clients to use the Hayward Score to achieve healthier homes and help educate their decisions. Let’s have the conversation!

  • Wise Design Founder Philip Hide is an award-winning designer and contractor. He has extensive hands-on involvement with all aspects of construction and a keen eye for enduring design that’s informed by 25 years of remodeling experience. With a young family of his own, he understands the challenges of home life and how to make the best use of space for flexibility, functionality and charm.

    Wise Design & Remodel are a dedicated team of professionals including an in-house architect, kitchen designer, master carpenters and expert project managers. Along with their diligent craftsman and trusted trade partners, they deliver an exceptional product with a client experience to match.