Initial Consultation:

Our architectural process is both extensive and highly personal. The first meeting is an opportunity to outline objectives, discuss budgetary limitations, and explore any constraints—but most importantly, it’s a chance to establish rapport. Our priority is to create a foundation for effective collaboration and clear communication from day one.

Schematic Design:

We follow an iterative design approach, engaging with the client as frequently as possible. The client plays a crucial role in the design team, and we cultivate an open dialogue that allows them to actively shape and influence the design from the start. This process begins with preliminary floor plans, which serve as a foundation for discussion. Once the overall layout starts to align with the team’s vision, we transition to 3D renderings. Every project we undertake is visualized in 3D, a valuable tool that enhances both our design process and the client’s ability to envision the final outcome.

As the schematic design phase nears completion, we typically conduct an initial budget assessment by sharing a set of drawings, renderings, and an outline of project specifications with a selected builder. This preliminary cost estimate usually takes about three weeks, providing a solid projection of the budget. At this stage, there is still flexibility to adjust the scope or materials to align the project with financial goals.

Design Development & Construction Drawings:

During the design development phase, we refine key elements such as mechanical systems, material selections, and finishes. Sustainability is a priority in all our projects, with considerations like solar orientation, shading, and natural lighting integrated from the start. However, it is in this phase that more specific sustainable features—such as solar panels, heating systems, and material choices—are incorporated. We also collaborate with consultants, subcontractors, and fabricators to fine-tune details and specifications during this phase.

Bidding:

We have a deep understanding of construction methods and the practical execution of our designs. For most projects, we recommend obtaining bids from two or three contractors to establish a guaranteed maximum price, ensuring a competitive and transparent process.

Construction:

Our level of involvement during construction varies depending on the project’s complexity. For smaller projects with straightforward details, only a few site visits may be necessary. Larger projects, however, typically require regular weekly site meetings with both the client and the builder to ensure smooth progress and address any issues as they arise.

Project Completion:

The final phase includes creating punch lists and gathering all necessary inspection documents. For larger projects, we provide a comprehensive project binder that serves as a long-term reference. This includes final approval documents from regulatory agencies, contact details for all contractors, subcontractors, and consultants, as well as the locations of essential building components such as shut-off valves, transformers, and access panels. Additionally, key material specifications and methods used in the project are documented. The binder acts as a permanent record, ensuring ease of maintenance and future modifications.

Fees:

Our standard billing is based on an hourly rate, which offers flexibility for clients to adjust our level of involvement as needed. For example, clients may choose to expand our role by including landscape design or, conversely, reduce our scope by handling certain planning aspects independently. Alternatively, we can establish a fixed fee once the project’s scope is clearly defined, typically upon completion of the schematic design phase.