Our Design Process
Our Design Process
Our goal is to help you realize your vision. Our design process begins with big picture concepts to ensure we maximize the value of the site, after which each phase focuses on more detailed items till we look at how to construct the eaves and other details.
Pre-Design and Conceptual Phase
The Pre-Design Phase is dedicated to information gathering that lays the groundwork for a successful architectural project. Establishing a solid foundation during this phase ensures that the design process will be informed and focused, leading to better outcomes that align with your expectations.
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Gather as much information in the following areas:
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Municipal and HOA requirements and restrictions
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Utilities
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Topographic survey
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Client wish list
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Conceptual Massing schemes based on style
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Schematic Design
The schematic design phase is meant to solidify a general layout with a massing structure in harmony with the style of the intended home.
After establishing the conceptual framework, the Schematic Design phase is a critical stage in the architectural process aimed at solidifying a general layout with a massing structure that harmonizes with the intended style of the home. This phase serves as the bridge from broad conceptual ideas to more detailed design elements.
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Key Points
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Establish style
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Review Conceptual options and layout planning
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Preliminary floor plans, elevations, and 3d modeling
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Conclude phase with the selection of a single plan and concept to refine
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Design Development
The Design Development phase is the refinement phase. Meetings become less frequent and deliverables slow down slightly as the time input increases to refine the model. Areas of focus during this refinements process include plan refinement, exterior material selections, addition of exterior details, renderings and visualization, and preliminary sections and preparation for engineering.
Key Points:
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Plan refinement and detail development
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Material and finish selection
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Coordination with other professionals
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Renderings and visualizations
Construction Documentation
The Construction Documentation Phase is the final stage in the architectural design process. During this phase, a comprehensive set of construction documents is generated that the builder can submit for permits and use to construct the home. This phase is crucial for ensuring that the project is executed according to the architect's vision, adhering to regulatory requirements, and meeting client expectations.
Key Points:
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Preparation of construction drawings
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Coordination with engineers and specialists
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Client approval of final design and construction documents
Permitting Phase
This phase involves the submission of construction documents to local governmental authorities and may include various consultations to verify compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and standards. There will likely be 1 or 2 rounds of corrections required by the municipality to get the drawing set to look the way they want. Every municipality will be different in their submission requirements and the length of time to get a building permit depends on where you're submitting for a permit.
Each municipality may also have different submission requirements. During this phase the general contractor or architect will be obtaining the additional submission requirements such as: Recheck, Manual J and D, Gas line schematics, elevation certificates, wildland severity forms, historical preservation requirements, HOA approval letters, truss package, SWPP requirements, floor plain letters, Geotech reports, etc.
Construction Administration
The Construction Administration Phase is the final stage in the architectural process that occurs when construction has commenced. This phase involves the architect's ongoing involvement and oversight during the construction to ensure that the project is executed according to the design intent. The architect reviews architectural questions and issues. Any engineering questions need to be reviewed and observed by the engineer.
Full construction administration is only offered in our full service contract as it is our service offering that unifies a comprehensive design service and deliverable. You may choose to have our team involved on an as needed basis during construction which is typically infrequent as the interior design team typically takes over construction administration responsibilities. Plan sets should be sufficient to construct the project and any alterations to the plan set during construction can be handled by the designer, contractor, engineer, and the build team.
Interior Architecture
Interior Architecture is distinct from Interior Design, with a specific focus on the structural and functional elements within a space. This discipline emphasizes wall treatments, millwork, cabinetry, ceiling treatments, floor patterns, and custom door designs. In contrast, Interior Design is responsible for final selections, colors, and specifications that enhance the aesthetic of the space.
While tile patterns are typically part of Interior Design, they may occasionally be developed by our team during the Interior Architecture phase, which begins during Design Development. Additionally, basic lighting and electrical plans are included in the standard builder's set but will be fleshed out with more detail in the Interior Architecture drawings if included as part of the service selection.
Interior Design
The Construction Administration Phase is the final stage in the architectural process that occurs when construction has commenced. This phase involves the architect's ongoing involvement and oversight during the construction to ensure that the project is executed according to the design intent. The architect reviews architectural questions and issues. Any engineering questions need to be reviewed and observed by the engineer.
Full construction administration is only offered in our full service contract as it is our service offering that unifies a comprehensive design service and deliverable. You may choose to have our team involved on an as needed basis during construction which is typically infrequent as the interior design team typically takes over construction administration responsibilities. Plan sets should be sufficient to construct the project and any alterations to the plan set during construction can be handled by the designer, contractor, engineer, and the build team.