Before embarking on a new home design or renovation, take time to explore and refine your vision from both practical and creative perspectives.

Begin by immersing yourself in your site and its environment. Visit throughout the seasons to observe how light and temperature shift, noticing where shade is needed in summer and sunlight in winter. Think about the materials you choose and how they interact with the landscape, whether you prefer bold contrast or a seamless connection with nature.

At the same time, enter the abstract stage of design. Reflect not only on functionality, but also on the emotions and experiences you want your space to evoke. Draw inspiration from art, architecture, and the textures of daily life. Consider colours that set a mood, finishes that bring warmth, and details that echo your personality.

This phase is about translating dreams and aspirations into a foundation for design, a vision that feels authentic, personal, and enduring.

Gillan Design provides full-service home design and renovation in Stone Mills Township and the surrounding Lennox & Addington area, guiding projects from concept to construction with a focus on thoughtful planning, efficiency, and sustainability.

Site Planning & Regulations

A well-designed home begins with understanding the property. A site plan maps out key elements such as buildings, driveways, drainage, grading, and utilities while ensuring compliance with local zoning bylaws, rural building requirements, and conservation authority regulations. If a minor variance is needed, support is provided for applications, Committee of Adjustment meetings, and approval requirements.

Design Development

The early design phase defines the flow, function, and aesthetics of a space, the “paper napkin stage.” This is where ideas take shape, blending inspirations that reflect your lifestyle with sustainable choices where possible. Whether planning a new home on a rural lot, a lakeside cottage, or a farmstead addition, the design is tailored to both site and community.

Technical Drawings & Visualization

Once the vision is clear, a complete working drawing package is prepared, a set of detailed technical plans that guide the construction process with precision and clarity. These typically include:

✔ Foundation & Floor Plans
✔ Elevations & Cross Sections
✔ Door, Window & Millwork Layouts
✔ Electrical & Lighting Plans
✔ 3D Renderings for a realistic preview of the final design

With a balance of creativity and technical expertise, Gillan Design ensures a seamless process from the first sketch to the final build.

A well-executed design depends on skilled trades and careful planning. Once construction begins, the contractor leads the build, ensuring the project stays on schedule and within scope. In the early stages, Gillan Design provides support with coordination and communication, helping create a smooth transition from design to construction.

Bringing a design to life is more than just building—it’s about creating a shared understanding between the homeowner, designer, and construction team. With clear expectations and a well-prepared plan, the process moves forward efficiently, resulting in a seamless path from concept to completion.

Whether you’re building a new home in Stone Mills Township, a renovation in Napanee, or a cottage upgrade along Beaver Lake, Gillan Design ensures that your project is rooted in local knowledge, trusted trades, and thoughtful design.

Turning your design into reality is about more than construction; it’s about working alongside skilled tradespeople and maintaining open communication at every step. With reliable local contractors and clear coordination, the process flows naturally, with everyone doing their part to bring the vision to life.

The result is not just a finished home or renovation, but a space that feels right for you, your family, and the community you call home.