Hello and welcome to Design Partners. We are your one stop shop for your structural needs. We have years of experience, and over 50 consecutive, unsolicited, 5-Star reviews on Thumbtack. - whether you have structural issues, need an inspection or safety concern, give me a call today - I look forward to hearing from you!
"Great job"
Nicole W on February 2025
Hello and welcome to Design Partners. We are your one stop shop for your structural needs. We have years of experience, and over 50 consecutive, unsolicited, 5-Star reviews on Thumbtack. - whether you have structural issues, need an inspection or safety concern, give me a call today - I look forward to hearing from you!
"Great job"
Nicole W on February 2025
We specialize in Structural Engineering Services and various types of Construction Jobs. Structural Engineering: Structural Design & Inspections Professional Condition Assessments Streamlined Permit Planning Thorough Construction Oversight Construction & General Contracting: Construction Management Structural Framing (Steel) Custom Outdoor Living Spaces (Decks and Pergolas) Specialized Welding and Metal Work Masonry and Concrete Solutions Railing - new fabrication and rehabilitation
"Ken and the folks at AGGO did an excellent job with our stairs. They came very quickly to give an estimate and listen carefully to our problem. They completed the work quickly, efficiently, and for a great price--easily beating other bids."
Andrew I on July 2021
We specialize in Structural Engineering Services and various types of Construction Jobs. Structural Engineering: Structural Design & Inspections Professional Condition Assessments Streamlined Permit Planning Thorough Construction Oversight Construction & General Contracting: Construction Management Structural Framing (Steel) Custom Outdoor Living Spaces (Decks and Pergolas) Specialized Welding and Metal Work Masonry and Concrete Solutions Railing - new fabrication and rehabilitation
"Ken and the folks at AGGO did an excellent job with our stairs. They came very quickly to give an estimate and listen carefully to our problem. They completed the work quickly, efficiently, and for a great price--easily beating other bids."
Andrew I on July 2021
The James Group has been building luxury homes in the Chicagoland area for over 14 years. We are committed to making your dream home a reality through an easy, no-hassle experience. Whether you're looking to renovate or build from the ground up, we work with integrity, high quality standards, and an unsurpassed passion for creating your perfect home.
"The work was done on time and there were no pricing surprises. All pricing was agreed in a detailed contract before starting construction, and they used Buildertrend to keep us updated on the status of the renovation"
Brian P on January 2023
The James Group has been building luxury homes in the Chicagoland area for over 14 years. We are committed to making your dream home a reality through an easy, no-hassle experience. Whether you're looking to renovate or build from the ground up, we work with integrity, high quality standards, and an unsurpassed passion for creating your perfect home.
"The work was done on time and there were no pricing surprises. All pricing was agreed in a detailed contract before starting construction, and they used Buildertrend to keep us updated on the status of the renovation"
Brian P on January 2023
Structural Design Corporation (SDC) is a licensed consulting engineering firm located in Libertyville, Illinois. We have been providing engineering & inspection services since 1979. We are a licensed design firm in the state of Illinois.
"Excellent honest work!"
Nick O on August 2024
Structural Design Corporation (SDC) is a licensed consulting engineering firm located in Libertyville, Illinois. We have been providing engineering & inspection services since 1979. We are a licensed design firm in the state of Illinois.
"Excellent honest work!"
Nick O on August 2024
Midwest Landscaping Design & Tree Service Inc. is a family owned and operated company. We are based out of Downers Grove. We have been servicing the western suburbs for 35 years. Some of our many specialties are designing and renovating your property. We offer FREE ESTIMATES and are FULLY INSURED. We offer 1 Year Guarantee on Plants
"There were large gaps between the pavers at the end of my driveway. When Pat got here, he convinced me to do additional work in other areas of the driveway. On the next visit, Pat said I should cut back some trees and shrubs around my property. A mature birch tree and an evergreen shrub was cut down to a stump, while I wasn't home. This appears to be part of his MO - as he added many things to the "verbal contract" every chance he got, doubling the contract price without providing any paperwork or receiving any signed approvals. Then when it came to payment he REQUIRED CASH. I am a small Asian woman and when questioning the quality of work he got visibly frustrated and shouted at me in front of my 8 year old that "[he] should have known better than to deal with a...." at which point I asked him to leave my property. The "great job" he did leaves my driveway looking aesthetically worse than when he started, and my pavers are still shifting - wish I could upload a short video."
Jenelle T on April 2024
Midwest Landscaping Design & Tree Service Inc. is a family owned and operated company. We are based out of Downers Grove. We have been servicing the western suburbs for 35 years. Some of our many specialties are designing and renovating your property. We offer FREE ESTIMATES and are FULLY INSURED. We offer 1 Year Guarantee on Plants
"There were large gaps between the pavers at the end of my driveway. When Pat got here, he convinced me to do additional work in other areas of the driveway. On the next visit, Pat said I should cut back some trees and shrubs around my property. A mature birch tree and an evergreen shrub was cut down to a stump, while I wasn't home. This appears to be part of his MO - as he added many things to the "verbal contract" every chance he got, doubling the contract price without providing any paperwork or receiving any signed approvals. Then when it came to payment he REQUIRED CASH. I am a small Asian woman and when questioning the quality of work he got visibly frustrated and shouted at me in front of my 8 year old that "[he] should have known better than to deal with a...." at which point I asked him to leave my property. The "great job" he did leaves my driveway looking aesthetically worse than when he started, and my pavers are still shifting - wish I could upload a short video."
Jenelle T on April 2024
At R & G Almanza Landscape Inc. we pride ourselves on reliability, great communication, integrity and quality work. We strongly believe in performing our absolute best in all the work we perform and to always keep you educated about the work process. Our team is dedicated to staying on the leading edge in industry, so whether you need simple shrubbery trimming and shaping or something more complex such as the complete re-design of your back yard, we have the skills, people and tools to do the job correctly, safely, and efficiently. R & G Almanza LAndscape Inc is dedicated to providing our customers with the highest quality of work at a fair price. When you hire us, we guarantee prompt, reliable, and fair services and we will promise to always strive for 100% satisfaction.
"The charged a fair price, came when they said they would be there and worked diligently. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend R&G Almanza to anyone."
Vincent W on April 2022
At R & G Almanza Landscape Inc. we pride ourselves on reliability, great communication, integrity and quality work. We strongly believe in performing our absolute best in all the work we perform and to always keep you educated about the work process. Our team is dedicated to staying on the leading edge in industry, so whether you need simple shrubbery trimming and shaping or something more complex such as the complete re-design of your back yard, we have the skills, people and tools to do the job correctly, safely, and efficiently. R & G Almanza LAndscape Inc is dedicated to providing our customers with the highest quality of work at a fair price. When you hire us, we guarantee prompt, reliable, and fair services and we will promise to always strive for 100% satisfaction.
"The charged a fair price, came when they said they would be there and worked diligently. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend R&G Almanza to anyone."
Vincent W on April 2022
Wentworth Construction, Inc., is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"It went excellent, they're innovative, problem solving and professional very trust worthy, outstanding planning and quality. Hight attention to detail and creativity. Worked within budget, this is our first big project we highly recommend and will hire Wentworth crew again. Be sure to consider Wentworth for your next instruction project."
Diana W on May 2024
Wentworth Construction, Inc., is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"It went excellent, they're innovative, problem solving and professional very trust worthy, outstanding planning and quality. Hight attention to detail and creativity. Worked within budget, this is our first big project we highly recommend and will hire Wentworth crew again. Be sure to consider Wentworth for your next instruction project."
Diana W on May 2024
At Luna Lever LLC, we're a team with over 30 years of experience in railroad maintenance, concrete, demolition, and excavation services. We also provide landscape and snow removal services. We offer a wide range of maintenance and construction services in Northwest, Indiana and Chicagoland demolition excavation construction demolition concrete excavation landscape snow removal maintenance and construction
"Very well! Couple ofrainy days however, they were very professional, friendly and kept me updated on status of work."
Michael S on September 2024
At Luna Lever LLC, we're a team with over 30 years of experience in railroad maintenance, concrete, demolition, and excavation services. We also provide landscape and snow removal services. We offer a wide range of maintenance and construction services in Northwest, Indiana and Chicagoland demolition excavation construction demolition concrete excavation landscape snow removal maintenance and construction
"Very well! Couple ofrainy days however, they were very professional, friendly and kept me updated on status of work."
Michael S on September 2024
Specializing in the following services: Landscaping and Hardscaping Lawn maintenance Snow removal Seal coating and epoxy flooring Pavers and much more Call or click for your quote today!
"Work started good for the first week, although I was told the job would be completed within 3-4 days. I was told that they had to complete other jobs and would return to my job. But they never returned. Initially they started avoiding my phone calls until I did hear from them any more."
C S on February 2025
Specializing in the following services: Landscaping and Hardscaping Lawn maintenance Snow removal Seal coating and epoxy flooring Pavers and much more Call or click for your quote today!
"Work started good for the first week, although I was told the job would be completed within 3-4 days. I was told that they had to complete other jobs and would return to my job. But they never returned. Initially they started avoiding my phone calls until I did hear from them any more."
C S on February 2025
Trueline Studios, LLC is an owner-operated, small studio founded in 2021. We focus on residential new construction, additions and renovations as well as small commercial renovations. With over 15 years’ experience in the architectural field, Trueline Studios provides a unique perspective on each project. Trueline Studios is licensed in the state of Illinois, and self-certified to permit within the City of Chicago. The goal of every project is to provide the client with what they want, need and can afford.
"Trudy from True Line Studio is a true professional in every sense of the word. Her exceptional work on our Luxe Realty studio headquarters project has left us thoroughly impressed. We purchased an old bank building with a vision to transform it into a multifunctional space, combining commercial and residential units. Trudy played an instrumental role in bringing our vision to life. From the very first consultation to the final project completion, Trudy exhibited unwavering dedication and a profound understanding of our needs. She navigated the complex process of acquiring all the necessary drawings and permits with ease and precision. Her extensive knowledge of the local regulations and zoning requirements streamlined the permitting process, saving us both time and money. What sets Trudy apart is her ability to balance the artistic and functional aspects of architecture. She seamlessly blended the historical charm of the old bank building with modern design elements, creating a space that is both elegant and highly functional. The transformation was nothing short of remarkable, and we owe it all to her expertise and vision. Trudy's attention to detail, responsiveness, and commitment to excellence made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. She worked closely with our team, ensuring that all our requirements were met and even exceeded. Her dedication to our project went above and beyond our expectations. We wholeheartedly recommend Trudy to anyone seeking a commercial or residential architect. Her talent, professionalism, and dedication are truly exceptional. We are immensely satisfied with the work she has done for us, and we look forward to collaborating with her on future projects."
Linda H on October 2023
Trueline Studios, LLC is an owner-operated, small studio founded in 2021. We focus on residential new construction, additions and renovations as well as small commercial renovations. With over 15 years’ experience in the architectural field, Trueline Studios provides a unique perspective on each project. Trueline Studios is licensed in the state of Illinois, and self-certified to permit within the City of Chicago. The goal of every project is to provide the client with what they want, need and can afford.
"Trudy from True Line Studio is a true professional in every sense of the word. Her exceptional work on our Luxe Realty studio headquarters project has left us thoroughly impressed. We purchased an old bank building with a vision to transform it into a multifunctional space, combining commercial and residential units. Trudy played an instrumental role in bringing our vision to life. From the very first consultation to the final project completion, Trudy exhibited unwavering dedication and a profound understanding of our needs. She navigated the complex process of acquiring all the necessary drawings and permits with ease and precision. Her extensive knowledge of the local regulations and zoning requirements streamlined the permitting process, saving us both time and money. What sets Trudy apart is her ability to balance the artistic and functional aspects of architecture. She seamlessly blended the historical charm of the old bank building with modern design elements, creating a space that is both elegant and highly functional. The transformation was nothing short of remarkable, and we owe it all to her expertise and vision. Trudy's attention to detail, responsiveness, and commitment to excellence made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. She worked closely with our team, ensuring that all our requirements were met and even exceeded. Her dedication to our project went above and beyond our expectations. We wholeheartedly recommend Trudy to anyone seeking a commercial or residential architect. Her talent, professionalism, and dedication are truly exceptional. We are immensely satisfied with the work she has done for us, and we look forward to collaborating with her on future projects."
Linda H on October 2023
The timeline for basement ceiling modifications spans four to 12 weeks, with the specific duration depending on your chosen method and project complexity. Floor-lowering projects often require more time due to careful excavation and foundation reinforcement processes.
Weather conditions, permit processing, and unexpected structural discoveries can extend the projected timeline. Most homeowners should prepare for some disruption to normal household activities during critical construction phases.
Converting previously unusable basement space into a functional living area often increases your home's assessed value, which may impact property tax obligations. Tax assessment practices vary significantly between municipalities, with some jurisdictions basing calculations on finished square footage.
To avoid surprises, contact your local tax assessment office before beginning construction to understand potential tax implications and budget accordingly for any anticipated increases.
Engaging a qualified structural engineer represents an essential first step for any basement ceiling project. These professionals evaluate foundation integrity, soil conditions, and load-bearing requirements to determine feasibility and recommend appropriate approaches.
Their expertise helps prevent potentially catastrophic structural issues while ensuring compliance with building codes. Although this consultation adds to initial expenses, it provides crucial guidance that may prevent costly mistakes or safety hazards.
Historic or aging properties present unique challenges when modifying basement ceiling heights. Older construction methods, outdated materials, and accumulated settlement issues require specialized assessment. Heritage designations may impose additional restrictions or requirements on modification approaches.
House-raising often provides advantages for older homes with compromised foundations, as it allows simultaneous foundation repair or replacement during the ceiling height modification process.
While professional contractors must handle all structural modifications, homeowners with appropriate skills may complete certain finishing aspects independently. Tasks potentially suitable for DIY include non-structural elements like painting, trim installation, or basic finishing work.
However, all excavation, foundation modification, and house-lifting operations require specialized equipment and expertise. Attempting structural work without proper qualifications creates significant safety risks and potential property damage.