Remodeling your home is one of the most significant investments you’ll make—not just financially, but emotionally. Whether it’s a kitchen remodel in Washington, D.C., a luxury bathroom renovation, or a full whole-home renovation, the process can feel daunting.
At Hammer Design Build Remodel, the team understands that clients want both the excitement of transformation and the assurance that their vision will be honored. Marketing director Jorge Castellanos, design director Johanna Nguyen, and founder-partner Greg Buitrago lead with a philosophy of transparency and creativity. Their approach blends expertise with collaboration, keeping clients “in the driver’s seat” from concept to completion.
In this candid interview, the Hammer team shares how they balance design innovation, functional solutions, and homeowner priorities—while making the remodeling process clear, engaging, and rewarding.
Strategy: Balancing Design, Function, and Lifestyle
Redefining Remodeling in D.C.
“Remodeling is exciting, but it can also be dusty, tough, and stressful,” admits Jorge Castellanos, marketing director of Hammer Design Build Remodel. This acknowledgment reflects the reality of major renovations—while the results are rewarding, the journey requires patience and planning. That’s why Hammer’s mission is not just about delivering stunning spaces, but also about minimizing the challenges along the way.
For homeowners considering a kitchen remodel in Bethesda or a bathroom remodel in Silver Spring, Hammer provides expert guidance at every stage of the process. From the first consultation to final walk-through, the team prioritizes confidence, clarity, and collaboration—ensuring each remodel not only meets but exceeds expectations.
The Art of Design Flexibility
Design director Johanna Nguyen emphasizes that flexibility is key to achieving the best results. Homeowners who begin with a clear idea—say, traditional cabinetry or a closed-off kitchen—often discover that a modern kitchen layout or an open-concept floor plan better suits their lifestyle.
“Perfection is the art of balancing the design between your needs, aesthetics, functionality, and budget,” Nguyen explains. Her philosophy is rooted in finding harmony between a client’s vision and practical solutions. This often means integrating design inspiration from contemporary kitchen remodels or creating a luxury bathroom retreat where relaxation and function coexist. By encouraging homeowners to remain open to new possibilities, Nguyen and her team help unlock designs that feel both timeless and deeply personal.
Remodeling as a Personal Journey
For founder-partner Greg Buitrago, remodeling is never just about structural changes—it’s about transformation on a personal level. He often reminds clients that it’s natural to ask many questions throughout the process. “It’s a good thing to ask a lot of questions,” Buitrago notes, because informed homeowners are empowered homeowners.
Whether planning a home addition to expand living space, updating a historic rowhouse, or investing in a luxury outdoor project, Greg sees each remodel as an opportunity to align design choices with long-term goals. His role is to educate, guide, and provide reassurance, ensuring that every decision—from architectural plans to finish selections—supports both the homeowner’s lifestyle and the home’s future value.
Keeping Clients in the Driver’s Seat
At Hammer Design Build Remodel, client involvement is more than a courtesy—it’s a core philosophy. Jorge Castellanos and his team strive to keep homeowners fully engaged, positioning them as true partners in the remodeling process. From reviewing architectural drawings to choosing materials and finishes, clients are encouraged to shape the outcome at every step.
This design-build approach fosters transparency and collaboration, making the journey less overwhelming and more rewarding. By placing homeowners in the driver’s seat, Hammer ensures that each finished remodel is a reflection of the client’s lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and long-term vision.
The result is not just a beautifully renovated home, but also the peace of mind that comes from knowing the space was crafted around the homeowner’s unique needs.
How Hammer Keeps Clients in Control
Step 1: Discovery and Design
Hammer begins with in-depth design consultations, ensuring homeowners articulate their vision clearly. Through architectural drawings, 3D renderings, and material samples, clients can see their remodel before construction begins. This stage is critical for understanding floor plans, elevations, and even details like load-bearing walls—terms that can otherwise confuse homeowners.
Step 2: Seamless Collaboration
Unlike traditional contractors, Hammer operates as a true design-build firm. This integrated model means architects, designers, and builders all work under one roof. The result? Clear communication, fewer delays, and consistent alignment between concept and construction.
Step 3: Guided Execution
During construction, Hammer prioritizes transparency and communication. Regular updates, walkthroughs, and direct access to the project team keep homeowners informed and empowered. Clients are encouraged to voice preferences or adjustments along the way, knowing their input will shape the outcome.
Tools, Examples, and Inspiration
Proven Design-Build Framework
Hammer’s process incorporates architectural planning, permit management, and craftsmanship—all centralized for efficiency. Their design-build framework helps eliminate common missteps like miscommunication between separate architects and contractors.
Portfolio of Transformations
From a modern whole-home renovation in D.C. to a contemporary kitchen remodel, Hammer’s portfolio demonstrates versatility. Each project reflects not just design excellence, but also the individuality of the homeowner.
For example:
-
A Chevy Chase homeowner sought to preserve the character of their Colonial home while modernizing its interior. The team reimagined the kitchen with sleek cabinetry, open shelving, and updated lighting.
-
In Silver Spring, a family transformed their outdated basement into a functional living space, balancing comfort with durability.
These before-and-after case studies highlight Hammer’s ability to align design vision with real-life functionality.
Mistakes Homeowners Often Make
Even the most well-intentioned homeowners can fall into common pitfalls when starting a remodeling project. From underestimating planning requirements to delaying communication with their contractor, these missteps can lead to budget overruns, safety issues, or disappointing results. At Hammer Design Build Remodel, the team helps clients avoid these traps by prioritizing education, transparency, and collaboration.
Mistake 1: Underestimating Planning
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is jumping into construction without a clear plan. Skipping detailed architectural drawings or overlooking zoning and permitting requirements can derail even the most exciting remodel. Local jurisdictions in Washington, D.C., Bethesda, and Silver Spring often require strict compliance with building codes and HOA guidelines before work can begin.
Hammer prevents this by guiding homeowners through each step of planning, from creating precise floor plans to managing permits. Whether it’s a whole-home renovation or a targeted kitchen remodel in Washington, D.C., thoughtful planning lays the foundation for a smoother and more successful transformation.
Mistake 2: Treating Remodels as Cosmetic Only
Another common error is assuming that remodeling is just about finishes—new countertops, tile, or paint. While these elements are important, true remodeling requires attention to the structural integrity of the home. For instance, removing a load-bearing wall without proper engineering can jeopardize safety and lead to costly repairs.
Hammer educates clients on how architectural integrity shapes lasting results. Before recommending design changes like an open-concept floor plan, the team ensures that proper supports and reinforcements are in place. This balance between aesthetics and structure is what makes Hammer’s work not only beautiful, but also safe and enduring.
Mistake 3: Delaying Communication
Remodeling is a partnership, and waiting until issues arise to communicate can cause unnecessary delays and expenses. Whether it’s clarifying expectations on finishes, adjusting a timeline, or addressing concerns about layout, delayed communication almost always results in frustration.
Hammer encourages homeowners to stay engaged throughout the project. From the discovery phase to final walk-throughs, the team prioritizes regular updates and invites clients to voice preferences or concerns early. This collaborative approach ensures the finished remodel truly reflects the homeowner’s lifestyle and avoids last-minute compromises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a design-build firm different from a general contractor?
A design-build firm integrates both design and construction teams, streamlining the process and reducing miscommunication. Learn more in our guide on design-build benefits.
Do I need architectural plans for a remodel?
Yes—plans are essential for permits, accurate pricing, and avoiding construction mistakes. See our article on planning a successful home renovation.
Which remodeling projects add the most value in D.C.?
Kitchens, bathrooms, and home additions typically provide the highest ROI. Check our insights on whole-home renovations.
How long does a kitchen remodel take in Washington, D.C.?
Timelines vary, but detailed planning shortens delays. Read more in our kitchen remodel timeline guide.
Can Hammer help with historic home renovations?
Yes—our team specializes in balancing preservation with modern upgrades. Explore our historic home remodeling guide.
Conclusion
At its core, remodeling is about more than upgrading spaces—it’s about transforming lives. By combining creativity, practicality, and a collaborative process, Hammer Design Build Remodel delivers not only beautiful homes but also peace of mind.
Whether you’re planning a bathroom remodel in Silver Spring, a kitchen renovation in Bethesda, or a whole-home transformation in Washington, D.C., Hammer ensures you’re never just a bystander—you’re an essential partner in the journey.
Ready to reimagine your home with a trusted team? Call Hammer Design Build Remodel at 202-559-3990 or contact us today to schedule your design consultation.