Our Design Process

Step 1: Site & Program Analysis

Construction worker wearing a hard hat and safety vest operating surveying equipment on a building site with homes and construction machinery in the background

  • Initial Client Meeting & Site Visit

  • Data Collection (surveys, reports, as-built plans, existing condition photos)

  • Site & Zoning Analysis

  • Layout/Feasibility Study

  • Conceptual Massing (if new ground-up construction)

By the end of Step 1, we will have defined your project’s scope and have a general sense of the program (inventory and size of spaces) and floor plan.

Step 2: Design Development

Person working on interior design with color swatches, fabric samples, sketches, and furniture plans spread on a table.

  • Design Concept

  • Mood Boards & Inspirational Images

  • Design Studies (sketches, 3D models, sections & elevations)

  • Facade & Roof Design (if new ground-up construction or exterior alteration/addition)

  • Entitlements (approval from your local Planning Department, if needed)

Once you approve the design, we will proceed to create technical drawings for a building permit and general contractor bidding.

Step 3: Permitting & Bidding

Architectural blueprints of a house, featuring detailed floor plans with rooms, measurements, and layout, partially rolled up.

  • Project Consultant Coordination (structural engineer, civil engineer, energy analyst, landscape architect)

  • Building Permit Plan Set

  • Bid Document Set (construction details, window & door schedules, interior & exterior finish schedules)

  • Contractor Bidding & Selection

After your local jurisdiction has issued the building permit and you have selected a general contractor, your project can begin construction.

Step 4: Construction Observation

Interior view of a house under construction showing wood framing and exposed ceiling with wiring, large windows, and a partially finished floor.

  • Respond to RFIs (requests for information) from the contractor

  • Review and approve submittals (material samples & shop drawings)

  • Periodically visit the construction site to ensure compliance with the design

  • If requested, work directly with the client to purchase interior finishes & fixtures

During the construction phase, the architect’s role is to act as the client’s advisor and help resolve any design issues related to unforeseen circumstances.