WHAT TO EXPECT

Every project is bespoke, but the process is not.

Seven phases, from concept to close out. Designing or renovating a home involves thousands of connected decisions. Without a clear structure, budgets can drift, schedules can slip, and important choices can arrive too late.

Every project is bespoke, but our process has been refined through years of experience. We make each stage clear, prepare you for the decisions ahead, and help you move forward with confidence. These four principles are a part of every project.

A black and white line drawing of a spacious kitchen with an arched ceiling. The kitchen features wooden cabinets, a large kitchen island, and open shelving. There are multiple ceiling lights and a patterned floor.
Phase 01

Initial conversation

01a

Pre-consultation questionnaire

You complete a short questionnaire so we understand the house, project goals, anticipated budget, and immediate concerns before we meet.

01b

Consultation and site walk

We discuss what is working, what is not, and what the addition may need to accomplish.

01c

Proposal and agreement

We define the scope of architectural services, anticipated schedule, fees, and next steps.

Deliverables
  • Completed pre-consultation questionnaire
  • Consultation and site walk
  • Scope of services, schedule, and fee proposal
  • Signed agreement
Phase 02

Kickoff and discovery

02a

Client onboarding

You receive the Project Roadmap explaining the phases, meetings, responsibilities, communication, and decisions ahead.

02b

Existing-conditions documentation

We measure and document the house, review available surveys or drawings, and identify relevant zoning or site constraints.

02c

Programming

We work through how your household lives, what spaces need to do, what should change, and which priorities matter most.

Deliverables
  • Project Roadmap onboarding document
  • Existing-conditions drawings of the house
  • Zoning and site constraints summary
  • Programming Package
Phase 03

Concept and schematic design

03a

Test the possibilities

We study different ways the addition could connect to the existing house, site, and landscape.

03b

Review plans and three-dimensional studies

We use drawings and models to help you understand the size, layout, character, and major architectural moves.

03c

Select a direction

We compare the options, discuss tradeoffs, and agree on the concept to develop further.

Deliverables
  • Concept design options
  • Three-dimensional studies
Phase 04

Design development and budgeting

04a

Refine the design

We develop the floor plans, exterior, windows, materials, structure, kitchens, bathrooms, and other important elements.

04b

Coordinate technical systems

Structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and site requirements are integrated into the design.

04c

Check the budget

We bring contractor or estimator input into the process so the design and construction budget remain connected.

Deliverables
  • Developed floor plans and exterior elevations
  • Window, material, and fixture selections
  • Updated 3D visualizations
  • Updated budget alignment with contractor or estimator input
Phase 05

Construction documents and approvals

05a

Prepare detailed drawings

We create the coordinated drawings and information the contractor will use to price and construct the addition.

05b

Finalize specifications and coordination

Engineering and other required technical information are incorporated into the project.

05c

Submit for approvals

The project is submitted for zoning, building permits, and other required municipal reviews.

Deliverables
  • Coordinated construction drawing set
  • Engineering and consultant documents
  • Zoning and building permit submissions
Phase 06

Contractor selection and preconstruction

06a

Obtain and compare proposals

We help contractors understand the project and review their pricing, allowances, exclusions, and schedules to help you compare their proposals.

06b

Confirm the construction scope

We help identify gaps or inconsistencies before the construction contract is signed.

06c

Prepare to build

The team confirms permitting, schedule, long-lead materials, site access, communication, and remaining decisions.

Deliverables
  • Bid package issued to contractors
  • Proposal comparison of pricing, allowances, exclusions, and schedule
Phase 07

Construction and closeout

07a

Support construction

We visit the site at appropriate intervals, answer contractor questions, and review submittals and proposed changes. We keep you informed throughout the entire process.

07b

Protect the design intent

We help resolve unforeseen conditions and evaluate

FAQs

Additional information.

If you still have other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out and we’ll get back to you shortly.

  • Ideally, before making major decisions about layout, scope, budget, or selecting a contractor. Bringing us in early allows us to help define what is possible, identify potential constraints, and establish a clear path before time or money is committed in the wrong direction.

  • The Project Roadmap is the personalized onboarding document you receive at the beginning of the project. It explains the overall process, responsibilities, communication, meetings, decision points, and what to expect during each phase so that you always understand where the project stands and what comes next.

  • We work on custom homes, additions, major renovations, kitchens, and other projects where thoughtful planning and design can meaningfully improve how a home functions and feels. We also take on select commercial projects.

  • The timeline depends on the project, but residential design commonly takes several months before permitting and construction begin. Your proposal and Project Roadmap will outline the anticipated sequence, major milestones, client decisions, and factors that may affect the schedule.

  • No. Some clients already have a contractor, while others need help identifying one. The best approach depends on the project, budget, and desired construction process. We can help you determine when a contractor should become involved and how candidates should be evaluated.

  • Typically yes. We prepare the architectural documents required for the project and typically coordinate the permit submission process. Requirements vary by municipality, and some projects may also require structural, civil, zoning, historic, or other specialized consultants. Some jurisdictions only allow the contractor to submit, in which case we typically prepare the paperwork and manage any questions.

  • Unfortunately this is a tough question.

    Construction costs vary significantly based on project size, existing conditions, location, materials, contractor availability, and the level of customization involved. For example, kitchens and bathrooms are more expensive than bedrooms.

    We will discuss whether your initial budget appears realistic and incorporate pricing conversations at meaningful points during design. As a general rule of thumb, new custom homes are $450 / SF and up.