What is the process like when working with an Architect?
This is what we usually hear when we begin speaking to a new client:
“We have this lot and we want a new home. So, we'll tell you what we want, you draw it up, we get a permit, and then we build it.”
This sentence, in a very simple way, sums up the process of working with an architect. As you can imagine however, the process is a bit more complex. The good news is that like most complex processes, designing and constructing a new home or development can be broken down into a series of small simple steps, all interconnected.
Our job as architects is to guide you along this process as the project moves from one step to the next.
So let’s break down down the sentence above and match it to the typical process when working with an architect.
Click on arrows to expand item:
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“We have this lot and we want a new home…”
We call this Pre-Design. The focus here is on determining what we can do within the numerous things that can restrict or impact any project.
Typically in this phase:
• we review building and zoning codes
• discuss your budget for construction, your schedule, and your needs and wants for the project.
• if necessary, we’ll measure and prepare plans of the existing home
• and we’ll also develop a preliminary design schedule
• we collect site information like surveys and soils reports -
“…we’ll tell you what we want…”
This is the Schematic Design phase. During this phase the rough shape of the building and the ideas are formed. We will generate a couple of different design options for you to consider - two at a minimum - using all of the information gathered in the previous step we begin by drafting a narrative for the project which we will reference throughout. This seed idea is used to help us make decisions as the project becomes more detailed and better defined. It is a rulebook of sorts.
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“…you draw it up…”
Now that we have established the overall layout and placement of the different rooms and spaces of the home, we now move into choosing materials, systems, and coordinating this all with the other consultants working on the project. The key decisions we need to make at this point involve materials, HVAC systems, structural strategy, finishes, and other items.
Other consultants like structural engineers, mechanical engineers, civil engineers, etc become more involved at this point in order to help refine the project.
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“…you draw it up…”
The drawing continues further in this phase only much more detailed than previously.
The information we add here are the numerous details, specifications, and regulatory information. These are the final drawings and documents that we will submit to the city for permitting purposes. Copies will also be provided to contractors so that we can attain bids on construction.
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“…we get a permit…”
During this phase we are doing two things in tandem:
• Permitting
We always permit our projects ourselves and never hand it off to others. The permitting process is never linear and involves numerous agencies and parties. Knowing how to navigate this is our unique expertise.• Gathering General Contractor Bids
General Contractors all have their own unique way of bidding on a project. Some will lump several areas into one number, while others may place items into categories that is not commonplace. The result is that it becomes very difficult for the novice to compare “apples to apples” and make the best decisions. That is where we come in. We review all bids, ask follow up questions, and present that all to our clients. -
After the contract is awarded and construction begins, we act as your agent on-site, monitor progress, review applications for payment, and ensure conformance with the contract documents. We do not tell the contractor how to do his work; we just make sure he is doing the things he is contractually promised to do.
How do we track this in our office?
From beginning to end, our clients are able to monitor their project within our in-house management system (powered by Notion). Here they can see who is on their project team, where the process is along a graphical timelines, access copies of important project documents, monitor budget and invoices, and details of each phase.
The old saying goes, “How do you eat an elephant? Well, one bite at a time.” Designing and building a home, or going through a major renovation doesn’t have to be a scary and intimidating endeavor. We’re here to help.
