When I first got into the residential remodeling world I was a builder with great vision, and felt like I could visualize every project that anyone ever wanted. Even though the overall vision was achieved, I started very quickly noticing little details that were missing. What I thought and what the client thought about the details weren’t always turning out to be eye to eye like desired.
Having a design fixed all of that. The saying is true, a picture is worth 1000 words! With a picture in front of both the contractor and the client, it takes out any kind of guess work from either person. The client no longer has to wonder if the contractor understands what their vision is, and the contractor doesn't have to make guesses on certain items in order to have a cost for it. With a design, this also allows you the freedom to compare apples to apples among different contractors.
Today designs are much different. Drafting by hand is fading away. Many people that draw and design projects now use CAD programs, which produce beautiful 3D renderings with all the details you're looking for in your project.
So, get a design and start planning your dreams.