DESIGN-LED PROCESS TAILORED FOR YOUR PROJECT

With a wealth of experience with various project types and scales, we have honed our services and design process to expertly address the challenges and complexities of creating unique, site-sensitive, and modern buildings. From design stewardship to budget management, construction coordination, and land preservation, we cover every aspect of your project as a full-service architectural firm.

We firmly believe a well-crafted design has the power to uplift the spirit of individuals and communities. Throughout the entire journey, from site selection to concept design to completion, we are fully engaged and committed to guiding you through every phase, creating beautiful and timeless places.

Project Kickoff

This is where clients tell us about the projects, including some of the most vital information below:

Project type: residential, commercial, or mixed-use?
Location: state, municipality, and neighborhood?
Project scope: new construction, addition, or renovation?
Schedule: start and finish dates?
Construction budget

A detailed architectural service proposal will be presented based on initial conversations and information provided. This proposal includes our understanding of the design scope, proposed phases, projected schedule, and estimated fee. Depending on each specific project, we will recommend consultants that include structural, MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing), and others as necessary. We also encourage clients to shortlist contractors for future pricing assistance.

Preliminary Research

Pre-design is an information gathering phase at various scales through dialogue and close client collaboration to establish a foundation for design phases to follow.

On a personal scale, we want to learn everything possible about our clients. A comprehensive questionnaire will help us to determine project goals, overall vision, and a list of spaces clients need and want. It will also help us to understand personality, character, lifestyle, routine, and aesthetics. At the end, a program will be put together for the project.
On a site scale, we will conduct a background study on the property and/or a detailed measurement of any existing structures. It provides us a better understanding of the surrounding neighborhood, orientation, climate, and people.
Lastly, on a city scale, we research and track any applicable zoning regulations to make sure we explore all of the possibilities. A zoning summary will be maintained for any future questions or discussion with the local jurisdiction.

Client Engagement
Very high - Client questionnaire

Architect Deliverables
Site / Existing condition drawings
Zoning summary
Preliminary programs

Contractor Responsibility
Minimal

Design + Documentation

Schematic Design is when we begin to translate previously collected information into designs. This is the time to test ideas, think of all possibilities, and get a general look and feel for the project. Multiple design concepts will generate options with different floor plans, forms, and space relationships. The goal is to study a wide range of design options using diagrams, hand sketches, models, and 3d renderings. We listen and observe clients’ reaction, and these initial options will be refined and narrowed down until an agreed-upon direction is selected.

At the end of this phase, we arrive collectively to a more fine-tuned project scope, and achieve approval on the Schematic Design scheme before work proceeds.

CLIENT ENGAGEMENT
Very high - We encourage dialogue and welcome feedback

ARCHITECT DELIVERABLES
Preliminary plans
Volumetric models
Exterior concepts

CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITY
Clients to start interviewing potential general contractors

During the Design Development phase, we advance the design significantly on all aspects and disciplines. As we dial in on the various building systems, a set of drawings including plans, elevations, and sections will be produced to illustrate the previously approved design. It is critical for clients to engage potential contractors for preliminary cost estimating. This is the time to test fit and understand the balance between clients’ wants, needs, and willingness to spend. If adjustments are necessary to bring the project scope back within budget, it is most efficient to do this sooner rather than later. Simultaneously, structural and MEP consultants are added to the team depending on the complexity of the project.

At the conclusion of this phase, a detailed set of documents will be produced that describe the overall interior layout, building exterior, significant equipment and systems, and material finishes.

CLIENT ENGAGEMENT
High

ARCHITECT DELIVERABLES
A developing drawing set
Outline specifications

CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITY
Provide preliminary pricing

The Construction Documents phase is when final decisions are made, and a thorough set of drawings are developed. These drawings will include details, dimensions, and notes that communicate the design intent. We show how building systems work together, and specify all of the materials, finishes, and equipment. The Construction Documents phase often requires the most amount of time because of the energy and effort required to execute the design on a very detailed level. Coordination between us and various consultants / trades is also critical for a successful and smooth construction phase.

Based on the final pricing, budget, and scope of work, we will produce a set of architectural drawings which will be used to establish actual construction cost and build the project.

CLIENT ENGAGEMENT
Average

ARCHITECT DELIVERABLES
A detailed drawing set
Specifications

CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITY
Provide actual construction cost

Construction

Regular site visits are made during the Construction Administration phase to ensure the built structure meets the design intent. The consistent presence during construction is equally important as previous design phases. Our role shifts from designer to advisor. We inform clients of the construction progress, while reviewing all contractor requests on shop drawings and/or any change orders. Photos and field reports will document the progress and confirm the workmanship are of expected quality. A final punch list will be conducted upon substantial completion.

CLIENT ENGAGEMENT
Average

ARCHITECT DELIVERABLES
Review shop drawings/RFIs
Field reports

CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITY
Construction

Congratulations!

Break out the champagne, it's time to celebrate and enjoy the new space!

learn about our design approach