The following are brief descriptions of the stages of our design process. It is best that these stages occur in order, and yet with some clients and some projects some phases may be combined or eliminated. No single project is the same as another, so not every phase occurs the same way.
Our hope is that these descriptions will help explain what occurs along the way, and may not always be visible.
Schematic Design:
You have a project in mind, you have great ideas yet are not sure where to start. During the schematic design phase, we will meet with you to discuss the key elements and scope of your project. Bring your wish-lists, ideas, sketches, photos, even share your pinterest board with us. It doesn’t matter to us, we want to hear your ideas and see your vision. At this stage there are no “bad” ideas. We throw every idea onto the table, examine it, discuss it, dissect it and ultimately decide if it fits the needs and scope of the project. As we look at each idea (crazy or not) we eventually funnel out the unnecessary and distill down your ideas to the main points. In the case of a remodeling or addition project, we will measure and generate “as-built” drawings of your existing home. Each step and discussion in this process is to aid you in making informed decisions and choices. At the end of this phase you will have a simple set of schematic drawings (typically: floor plans, exterior elevations, site plan) which will allow the contractor to get a general idea of the construction scope. At this point a contractor may be able to provide a “ballpark” cost. This is not the final cost, and is only an estimate and idea of the final costing.
Construction Documentation:
This is the technical drawing portion. One of the most important steps is developing a set of detailed documents and drawings that will create the blueprint for your contractor to follow. This is critical in communicating your vision to the contractor in a build-able method. All building codes, energy compliance code, project specifications will be addressed so that the contractor can understand how he is to construct your vision. Typically the more thorough the drawings and documents, the more thorough the contractor can perform his work. The contractor will use these documents to both estimate the overall cost of your project and to build the project.
Construction Observation:
In this phase your architect observes the pace and quality of the construction. Your architect should be working for you, by looking out for your interests, keeping you informed of the progress, and overseeing any potential changes or issues that may arise. Construction phase services are critical in keeping your project in-line with your design vision, budget and timeline. It only makes sense to have your architect to continue along with the project as the construction progresses. Your architect is working as you technical agent in monitoring the construction work.