During the design phase, we take a concept and turn it into a tangible result. We subdivide this phase into the following areas:

Pre-design. Before you take off on a trip, you have to know where you’re going.  We use this same philosophy when we start a project and develop the program design. First, we talk to you to understand what you want. Then we analyze the factors that will affect your project—time, budget, community, and site.  We often include site data and feasibility studies to help us evaluate development concepts before we begin a design.

 

Conceptual and schematic design. Conceptual design and modeling help you evaluate spatial relationships.  After a process of refinement, we get down to the details by presenting a schematic design that includes site specifics, floor plans, elevations, materials, landscaping, and interiors. During this phase, we meet with neighbors who might be impacted by the structure.  We also complete an architectural review through the city, town, or county jurisdiction and develop a preliminary budget.

 

Design development. During this phase, we select acontractor and team consultants, and begin a series of meetings, integrating ideas and further defining systems, methods, and materials.  Unlike many other firms, we manage a collaborative design, maximizing the value we provide.  By receiving input through discussions and on paper from “real” subcontractors, we reduce misunderstandings and owner costs.  We also develop drawings that detail team decisions and provide budget references for contractors and subcontractors.  In addition, we perform a review of the complete design development budget.

 

Construction documents. The final phase of design includes developing the drawings that we will use to obtain building permits and contractor bids.  We then review the complete budget and final construction agreement, receive the building permit, and are ready for construction.