Design Services

When the dream is a new home designed and built just for you, I can help you realize that dream and simplify the process. My approach takes you through the 5 Key Design Stages I've refined over time to create a plan for your home that is tailored to you. We'll work through the stages and decisions together at the pace that you'd like - whether you want to just do some initial planning to determine what's possible, or whether you're ready to go to be ready for construction.

As a former general contractor and builder I can provide practical insight and guidance throughout the design process, bringing you the peace of mind and confidence that you're starting the project on the right track.

Farmhouse, Prairie, Craftsman & Mid-Century Modern Styles

My plans tend to follow these design styles as they provide a great foundation for detail, clean lines, and an efficient use of space. The plans are also influenced by many of the Not So Big^© design concepts that emphasize quality materials and details over size, as well as building science and a healthy dose of reality for what's cost-effective. Most of the homes fall into the 1000 - 3000 square foot range and are well thought-out and right-sized for your daily use, providing an inherent comfort when you live in them. Of course the design style and final size is up to you and driven by your wants and dreams!

More Than Just Drawings

While many design sources give the impression that you just need someone to put together a drawing for your house, that's only one part of a much larger picture. At Artisan, I work with you through each of the design stages to make sure that your project truly meets your goals and is ready to be built.

Unfortunately its a common situation where people who have worked with a designer or architect, came up with "the perfect plan", then found out they can't afford to build it because the bids are 25-50% higher than their original stated budget. This happens for a number of reasons, however at that point the main options are to "give up" features that you've set your heart on , come up with the extra money, or just not build at all (which is often the case). None of these three options are ideal as it starts the entire building process from a negative perspective instead of the exciting undertaking you want it to be.

The good news is that this situation can be avoided by designing with the budget in mind, as well as a good understanding of your wants and needs. Do you really need a dining room sized for 14 guests? Or that full second kitchen in the basement? Maybe you do and we'll want to plan for it, but its an example of what needs to be discussed during the design instead of after the design is complete. Part of my responsibility is to have the discussions with you during the design process on details that drive costs and what the options are upfront, so you can make informed decisions along the way and get the home that you really want and need.

So while a drawing might be beautiful, it isn't of value if you can't afford to build the home - or worse, if you build it only to find it doesn't really fit your needs.

The custom design process typically averages 4-6 months, can be as fast as 2-3 months, or can take much longer based on your availability and decision process. Logistically, we work through the design stages starting with your goals and budget, then initial floor plan drafts, then exterior elevations, and then the final details and plans. If you're looking for a faster timeline, another route may be to use one of my Stock Plans with some modifications to make it a Semi-Custom design for you.

The process begins with an initial free consultation, which is my opportunity to talk with you to understand your project goals and timeline ... and your opportunity to make sure that I'm a real person that you feel you can work with. Assuming we both decide I'm a good fit for your project, I'll provide a proposal for the project broken out by Design Stage. Once approved we'll follow the 5 Key Design Stages through a series of meetings, design reviews, and other conversations to stay in sync.

Projects can vary greatly based on a number of factors, all of which can impact the amount of time and cost required to complete the design plans. Here are some typical examples:

Home Size ... one vs. two story, total square feet, etc.
Design Style and Detail ... custom features, foundation types, etc.
Site Requirements ... local codes, contractor requests, etc.
Change Requests (some are expected)

So while different factors affect the pricing, most Custom Home Design Projects tend to be in the $3500 to $6000 range with everything included.

Finished plans include PDF copies of the elevations, floor plans, foundations, cross sections, and other details. Ideally I will be able to work with your contractor to make sure they have what they need for actual construction, but that tends to vary by builder. The plans will include a license to make printed copies of the plans for building one instance of the home.

Note that while my custom plans generally follow the national building codes at the time of creation, each state and local code application and enforcement varies and changes every few years. Ideally I will be able to work with your contractor to finalize the specific details they need for obtaining permits in your area, but either way I will make a best effort to reflect your local code requirements in the custom plans. Examples include foundation and footing details, insulation requirements, and other code-specific details that might affect the drawings as provided.

Also note that structural specifications will need to be provided by your builder or suppliers (which is typical) and may require engineering approvals based on your local codes as these vary by state and location. For example, I've yet to meet a truss company that wanted to use someone else's specifications for the floors or roofs, as they're on the hook for making them right. Also for the few areas that require plans stamped by an architect or structural engineer (e.g. New York, New Jersey, Nevada, Oregon), those can typically be provided by a local resource who can review the plans and certify the details for you. Please reach out if you have questions or need more information.