Process
Initial Consultation
The initial consultation is usually a 1-2 hour meeting, free of charge, where I can assess the scope of your intended project. I will make certain initial suggestions as to the feasibility of different approaches to achieve your desired result, and perhaps suggest some approaches you may not have considered. The goal is for us to be able to agree on the scope of the project, so that I can send you a proposal that accurately encompasses the design work necessary to achieve that end. Also discussed will be your intended time frame and whether you have a builder or will need to find one.
Proposal / Contract
The proposal I send you is quite detailed and will tell you exactly what drawings and documents you will get. The purpose of my work is to give you all the plans and documents you need to get a building permit and for the contractor to fully understand what is to be built. The price quoted will be a set price unless the scope of the work changes. Other services available are on-site consultations during the bid and/or construction phases. Signing the enclosed contract and sending a retainer is acceptance of the proposal.
Design Development
First, I will give you a time frame in which you can expect the plans to start. I make every effort to accommodate clients’ individual needs in terms of time frame. In the case of an existing house, I first need to measure and photograph the house. At this time a additional planning meeting is usually necessary to clarify design goals. The first set of design sketches will follow shortly, which will be an image of an accurate virtual 3D model of the project.
Up to five or more rounds of revisions are usually necessary, and are included in the price quoted. I will supply a program for viewing the 3D model on your own computer. Most revisions will be done via Zoom screenshare meetings, making revisions to the model as necessary and instantly viewing the results.
I will check with local zoning laws to ensure that your project can be permitted. If the project needs the approval of local zoning, conservation or other boards, I can help you prepare the required documents and provide representation at hearings.
Schematic (Construction) Plans
Once we have the design of the project nailed down, we proceed with Construction Plans and Documents. These include architectural elevations, sections (cut-throughs), schematic framing plans, any detail drawings necessary to accurately depict the project and other permitting documents. Also included is a room by room Finish and fixture schedule that will guide you and the contractor through the entire project.
At this point you may need help finding and/or evaluating a builder and evaluating their bids.
