Design Process

On a typical project, our design work progresses through the following phases:

Pre-design Analysis. Tasks may include measuring and photographing the existing house and site, zoning and building code review, analyzing energy use patterns, preparing a detailed description of project requirements, and reviewing the project budget.

Schematic Design. We typically generate and explore two or three possible design directions, and develop drawing studies of the alternative schemes.  The preferred option is then developed. Preliminary pricing by one or more builders may be requested, depending on budget sensitivity.

Design Development. The schematic design is refined in response to our increased level of understanding, including any construction cost information. Additional drawings are developed for review.

Construction Documents. Fully dimensioned, detailed plans, elevations, sections, details, schedules and specifications are produced.  These documents provide the detailed information needed to establish a construction contract, obtain a permit, and proceed with construction.

Builder Selection and Contract Negotiation. Successful projects are the result of good collaboration and teamwork between owner, architect, and builder.  The selection of the builder sometimes involves competitive bidding, but often a contract is negotiated with a preferred builder who emerges from the process of obtaining preliminary pricing.  In either case, we can assist with identifying possible builders, and with the builder selection and contract negotiation process.

Construction Administration. We will stay involved as your agent through construction, making regular visits to the site to observe the job’s progress and help resolve problems and questions, and generally to see that the work is proceeding according to the drawings and consistent with your intentions.