The design
process need not be complex, but many decisions must be made. We will help to simplify this process so that we can transform your vision into reality. At
each phase we will meet to enhance ideas and exchange information so you can make
informed decisions. Bear in mind that the process will vary depending on the
size of your project.
PHASE I: Before We Meet
- Cut and tear. Make a file of pictures from
magazines and catalogs. If you see something you like, down to the
smallest detail, tear it out and save it in your file. This can also be
helpful when communicating with your contractor / builder.
- Keep a notebook handy to write down ideas as they
come to you.
- Brainstorm with family members to discuss
everyone's wishes.
- Think about what you like and don't like about
your current house. What will you miss most about your current house when
you move? What will you be relieved to leave behind?
- If you are not sure what style of house you want,
drive around and take pictures of houses you like. Even if it's more than
one style, I can often take the individual elements you like and fit them into the style that's right for you.
- We can always make changes as we go. But the
more we communicate up front the easier the design process will be. Now it's time to get started!
PHASE II: Discover Scope and Create
Initial Designs
- Hold initial consultation
At our first meeting we will
discuss your wish list, lifestyle, preliminary design ideas,
construction costs, scope of services, and personnel requirements
needed to complete your project.
- Prepare and deliver a written
proposal to you
The proposal describes the general scope of work, our fees, services, and
list of other recommended professionals for your project (i.e. civil
engineer, soils engineer, energy compliance, etc.).
- Determine site measurements
In almost all cases, we will need a copy of the site plan (Survey) of your property. We do not want to design a home that will not fit within the building lines of your property.
- Prepare a conceptual design
Now that we have direction from the client, we can proceed
to the preliminary design, which would include, but not be limited to:
- Conceptual floor plans
- 3D exterior perspective
modeling, and
- 2D drawings (elevations) as
applicable
- Review conceptual designs
We review the conceptual floor plan designs with the client, and refine
them accordingly. Typically this involves meeting with you a few times.
- Review conceptual exterior
elevations
Pending approval on above, we develop exterior elevations in keeping with
the proposed architectural style.
PHASE
III: Finalize Design Plans
- Develop and
finalize construction documents
We prepare the final construction documents needed for your builder to construct your new home. These construction documents will consist of but not limited to:
1. Dimensioned
Floor Plans
2. Front
& Rear Elevations
3. Right
& Left Side Elevations
4. Foundation
Form Plan
5. Plumbing
Layout For Pluming Fixtures & Stubouts Locations
6. Electrical
Plan – Recommendation Only
7. Roof
Rafter Layout
8. Ceiling
Joist Layout
9. Site Plan
(Certified Plot Plan Must Be Furnished)
Various other Construction Documents required by building codes.
- Review final plans and submit
to appropriate city/county departments
At this time, we initiate an appointment with the client to review the
finalized plans. The client may then summit the plans to city/county department or Subdivision Architectural Committee for
plan review and approval.
PHASE
IV: Finalize Documents
- Local building agencies review
construction documents for conformance
Documents are reviewed for conformance to local and state requirements.
Reviewers forward comments to our office where we make further minor
modifications/notations.
- Re-submit construction
documentation to agencies
Additional sets of construction documents are then printed and the client
re-submits to the city/county office for approval of building permit.