THE PROCESS

 

• As-Built Drawings

For renovations and additions, the project starts first with creating as-built drawings. We spend time at the home and measure, photograph and document the existing structure and then create floor plan, exterior elevations and roof plan drawings of the existing conditions so that we can start the design process with the most current and accurate information about the existing conditions.

• Schematic (or Conceptual) Design

Schematic design is perhaps the most important time we spend interacting with clients. At this stage, we have frequent discussions in order to keep clients abreast of our work and direction and we are creating the concept and flushing out the best design. During this time, we present drawings that describe design ideas with respect to your budget. Throughout schematic design we expand your design options to ensure the project design is exactly what you want.

• Design Development

After reviewing the options completed in schematic design, we all work together to choose a future design direction. In most cases, we find that the chosen direction is a compilation of several ideas from the schematic design phase. At this point, we continue to define, through plans, elevations and sections, the size of rooms, types of materials, and exact placement of the building. During this phase, we study the whole building as a system, including discussing your sustainable/”Green” options, and discuss specific construction issues which may affect the final project. During this phase, a fairly accurate cost of construction may be obtained from the drawings we prepare.

• Construction Documents

In order to convey all of the discussions, decisions and drawings that result from schematic design and design development as precisely as possible, a set of detailed documents are prepared. This set informs the builder of the appearance and construction detail of the trim, built-ins, doors, and surface elements. These documents outline the expected level of quality, both in written and drawn format. Construction documents ensure the final drawings match the desire you ultimately envisioned after working through the design process. They also ensure the bids you receive from contractors reflect the details and quality you expect. In addition to securing design decisions we made, construction documents also minimize change orders and stressful snap-judgments made on the job site. At the end of this stage, we continue to work with you, as your advocate, to select a contractor (when necessary).

• Bidding, Permitting & Construction Observation

During this stage we operate as our clients’ advocate to ensure work is performed to the standards and quality described in the contractual documents we prepared. As part of our role, we answer contractors’ questions, communicate details when requested and make regular job site visits. Since the actual construction is often a busy and stressful time for our clients, our presence during construction is usually appreciated!

 

Choosing the right architect is absolutely essential to a successful project. So, it’s vital to find an Architect who listens and understands your style and needs. Once you’ve decided, here are a few simple things to do before meeting with us: