Once you contact us we set a preliminary meeting. During this first complimentary meeting we discuss what you want to do, your project vision, any project requirements, and talk about budget and the overall schedule. We listen carefully, seek to truly understand your wants and needs, ask lots of questions, and generally explore the possibilities of your project. We answer your questions and give you the opportunity to discover what we can do for you.
Once you choose to work with us, we move into the initial design phase. In this phase we work with you to further explore your style preferences, interests, and how you plan to use the space. As we gain a deeper understanding of you and the project, we look for opportunities to propose solutions and ideas you may not have considered. We help you explore your options and consider ways to best use your resources effectively. We analyze, prioritize, and look for solutions to resolve competing issues.
Once we’ve gathered that information, and have assessed the condition of the land and buildings, we research the property’s records, zoning ordinances, and requirements from the building department and other governing agencies. This provides a strong foundation for the design. We then develop conceptual drawings (also called schematic drawings) and a preliminary cost estimate which we review with you. Once you approve the conceptual design we are ready to move to the next design phase.
This is when the design starts to get detailed. We further define dimensions, materials, and all structural, mechanical, and electrical systems. We work with you to help you to decide on style, colors, and finishes. We coordinate with other consultants such as structural engineers and energy raters. As we develop the design we compare it to the project requirements, make adjustments if needed, and then we prepare for an update of the construction cost estimate. If you came to us with a contractor you have selected, or if you prefer to work with one of our trusted contractors, we will involve him/her in the process as soon as possible to assure that the decision making is efficient and realistic.
Along with everything else we prepare drawings and preliminary specifications that are the basis for the next phase. Once you approve the developed design and updated cost estimate we are ready to prepare the construction documents.
Based on the work performed during the design phase we prepare the construction documents which include all the drawings, specifications, and other technical information required when applying for permits. We coordinate with other consultants, such as the structural engineer, who prepare their own set of documents. These documents are used by the contractor for the final construction cost estimate and to build the project.
If you have not yet chosen a contractor, now is the time to select one. You can do this through negotiation or competitive bidding. We can help you with selecting a qualified contractor appropriate for your project and also assist you in contracting with him/her.
In general, during the same time a contractor is being chosen the applications for the permits can be submitted. We represent you with building officials during the permitting process, following up and answering all questions and comments.
We are ready to build the project!
We hold a preliminary meeting with the contractor to go over the plans, answer any questions, and review his/her timeline for the completion of the work. We point out any areas we feel may need special attention and make sure the construction documents are interpreted correctly. During construction we provide more detailed drawings we feel are necessary or if they are required by the contractor or building officials.
We represent you in the administration of the Owner-Contractor contract document. We come to the job site to observe how the construction is progressing. We check to make sure the plans are being followed, the specified materials are being used, and everything is being built according to the plans and to code. We keep in contact with the contractor throughout the building process checking for unexpected issues and, if any decisions need to be made, making sure that happens in a timely manner to avoid unnecessary costs and delays.
When the construction work has been completed we will be there, along with the contractor, to review any last details that need to be resolved. And we will be there any time you may need us because nobody knows your building better than us and your contractor.