This phase involves a lot of information gathering and a certain amount of dreaming. Working together we will define your needs and goals for the project. This will include; space size requirements, space adjacencies, quality of space and finishes, daily and special patterns of living, site requirements, and general values to be embodied throughout the project. here

We work across the analog-to-digital continuum of skills, beginning design with traditional pencil sketching and developing three-dimensional digital models and renderings as needed to effectively communicate concepts. Through a series of studio work sessions and client meetings, the basic design emerges during this phase. The completed schematic design will include a site plan, floor plans of each level, building elevations, and key building sections. These drawings describe the size and arrangement of all spaces, rooflines, approximate window/door openings, and basic layout of built-ins & equipment.

During this phase CAD drawings are developed that ultimately become the working drawings. We begin to zoom in on all plans, sections, and elevations to refine dimensions and study construction details. Construction systems and materials are researched and generally defined during this phase. Mechanical systems are researched and layouts are considered. Specifications for environmental systems, fixtures, and materials are outlined.

This is the most time-consuming phase for the architect. All drawings are further refined and specifications are developed to include sufficient detail to allow for building department permit review, contractor pricing and construction. The drawings and specifications produced in this phase become the basis of your agreement with the contractor so they must be as clear and complete as possible.

Contracting the work can be done many ways. The traditional approach is to request bids from a number of contractors based on the above Contract Documents. However, we often refer clients to specific contractors that have demonstrated high-quality work on past projects. During this process the architect will prepare sets of documents for bidding contractors, address questions, issue addenda documents if needed, and review the submitted bids with the owner. The construction contract can also be directly negotiated with a general contractor.

We stay closely involved during construction, acting as the administrator of the contract. This means that the architect serves as the owners agent to verify that the work is performed in accordance with the contract and as per the drawings and specifications. Depending on the complexity of the project this involves site visits, meetings with contractors, review of payment requests, review of shop drawings and products & materials being provided, responding to questions, administering required changes, etc. If the client requires additional levels of service, we are also available to help with interior design, fixture and finish selection, and landscape design.