Understanding the Design Process

Building a custom home or undergoing a major renovation is an exciting, yet overwhelming experience. That is where an architect can come in to guide you through the process, from initial idea to your finished home. In this post we will walk thru the design process, outlining what you can expect at each stage of your project, to help you feel confident and prepared in your journey.

Initial Consultation & Pre-Design

Every great home design should start with a conversation. As your Architect, we will listen to your ideas, vision, needs and goals for your home. This discussion should include what spaces do you need in your home, what styles of architecture do you prefer, what are the must-have features you want in your home, and many more.

We will analyze your site, to evaluate how the land, the sun, the wind, and regulations will affect you new home. If it’s a renovation, we will assess your existing home and structure to expose any design constraints.

At this stage we will discuss a realistic budget and set a timeline for your project, so you know what to expect at the very beginning.

Schematic Design (Concept Development)

After the Initial Consultation, this is when the real work begins. We will develop initial sketches & floor plans based on our discussions & your vision. This stage is where you can see your vision begin to take shape. Once we have the concept in place, we begin to fine-tune how your house flows & functions. We adjust the plans for the best interaction between spaces, adjusting for natural lighting, maximizing views while maintaining privacy. At this point we may create schematic 3D renderings to help you better visualize the design. Using all the current tools helps us create the best spaces possible and explore materials & finishes for your perfect home.

At this point we often do a preliminary cost estimate to ensure the design is aligning with your budget. With the preliminary budget we can see if we need to adjust the design.

Design Development

After your approval of the Concept Design, we will work towards finalizing the design of your home. We will take our previous discussions and apply them to the exterior look of your home, the interior layout and material selection. We will coordinate with engineers and specialists as needed to ensure your home is structurally sound and incorporates any necessary equipment into the design. We can explore Energy Efficiency and Sustainability options, like high-performing insulation and windows, smart home technology, and if you prefer, solar technology or other energy efficient systems.

At the end of this stage, you will have the final check before moving onto Final Construction Documents. This is where we can review the design and make any adjustments that are needed.

Construction Documents & Permitting

After your Architect finishes up Design Development, they will move into creating your Detailed Construction Documents. This is where we detail everything that is essential for obtaining permits and guiding your Contractor during Construction. We will include detailed Floor plans, Exterior & Interior Elevations, Structural drawings, Window & Door Schedules, Finish Schedules, Electrical Plans, and whatever else is required for your particular home.

After the Drawings are finished, your Architect is not done, we don’t walk away and leave it to you. At this point We will help you navigate the complex process of permitting, including paperwork and coordinating with your local jurisdiction to ensure we compliance with the zoning and building codes. This is a fluid process that is happening throughout the design process.

We will help you evalulate potential contractors, request bids and select a team that fits your budget and expectations. If you already have a contractor, we will work with the team to ensure your project moves forward towards completion.

Construction Administration

This part of the process is where you start to see your design brought to life. While the contractor and builders handle day-to-day work on-site, the Architect remains involved to ensure the design intent is maintained, and to oversee key milestones for your project. We will conduct site visits, answer questions from your contractor, & review progress to ensure everything aligns with the approved construction documents.

Sometimes unforeseen challenges arise during construction, such as material delays or necessary design modifications. Your Architect will help you navigate these challenges, all while keeping your design goals and budget in mind. As your project nears completion, the Architect will walk through your home with you and create a Punch List - a final list of all things to be completed before move-in day.

Conclusion

The process of designing your custom home or renovation is a carefully structured journey that transforms ideas into reality. When working with an Architect, homeowners benefit from the expert guidance, better design solutions, and seamless experience from start to finish

If you are considering a custom home or major renovation, contact us today and let us bring your dream home to life!