NEW HOME & REMODELING DESIGNS

DESIGN PROCESS

How does this all work?

MY DESIGN PROCESS

Whether you're looking at building a new home or updating your existing one, my design process follows the same general path as I have the same outcome in mind for every project ... how I can capture your goals and ideas into finished drawings that will help you realize those goals.  

So here are the Key Design Stages I use for every project:

Female hand next to a few crumpled paper balls drawing random scribbles

1. Initial Consultation

Every project begins with a free initial consultation, which typically last about an hour.  This is my opportunity to meet with you to discuss your project, so your goals, ideas, and dreams. 

I'll ask questions about the details of your project, your budget and timing, and other information so I can determine whether I'm a good fit for you.  I'll also start to develop a rough idea of how long the design might take.

Beyond asking questions, I typically also am able to provide you feedback and input.  Like is your project feasible?  Is your budget realistic?  What other options haven't you considered?  So even if you never become a client, I want to leave you with more information that will help you in your building journey. 

Shortly after we meet, I'll put together a detailed proposal for the design that you can review and hopefully approve when you're ready.

2. Concept Design

This phase of the project is where the fun begins, I get to be creative, you get to provide lots of input, and together we'll create your home. 

It starts with an initial Kickoff Meeting where we'll go through the goals for the new home or remodel in more detail, drilling down into the specifics of how you want to use the new spaces, what do you envision for the feeling of the spaces to be, and what other things should we consider.  This includes accounting for everything from furniture, children, pets, heirlooms, entertaining, hobbies, energy focus, budget, site features, and more.  My goal is to have a solid understanding of what is needed for the design as I try to accommodate and balance the various details.

From this list, I'll start working on one or more floor plan options that might be a good solution for your specific needs.  We'll review these together online or in person, discussing the design considerations and the pro's and con's of each option, while giving you the opportunity to provide feedback and ask questions.  I'll take that input and make updates so we get close to a final option, then create 3D illustrations so you'll have a better idea of what the final spaces will look like.  We have additional reviews throughout the process, and will get deeper into the details with each step.

Once we the Concept Plans are finalized, you'll have a detailed set of plans that are ready to obtain proposals from various contractors.

Home Icon on Multicolor Puzzle.
Human hands holding model of dream house

3. Detailed Drawings

This phase includes all of the detailed drawings that should be needed for obtaining the building permit and constructing the house or completing the remodel.  This includes drawings that show the specific details of the floor plans, custom built-ins, insulation requirements, elevation heights, roof and foundation plans, site plans, and a number of other specifics to show code compliance and how to build the design.  

Typically, I'll complete this phase of drawings once you've selected a contractor and have decided to proceed with construction (although I'm happy to complete these before then if desired).  For many projects, the actual construction might not happen for a year or more in which case waiting can make sense to accommodate changes to building codes or changes to your personal situation.  In either case the goal is to provide the information needed to make your project go smoothly and result in a home that fits your needs!

How Long Does This Take?

For a New Home Design, once the process begins it typically averages 3-5 months, can be as fast as 2-3 months, or can take much longer based on your availability and decision making process. If you're looking for a faster timeline, another route may be to use one of my Stock Plans with some modifications to make a Semi-Custom design for you.

For a Remodel Design, the process varies greatly by the scope of the project.  For example, a small bathroom or kitchen update might only take a couple of weeks once we start on it, while a whole home remodel might take 2 months.  An estimate for each design is included in your Design Proposal based on your specific project details.

One thing to keep in mind is that you'll typically need to wait just a bit before your project can begin based on other project commitments I've made to other clients.  My goal is to get projects done as quickly as possible, but wait times can vary from 1-2 months out to 5-6 months depending on how busy I am.  I also don't rush through projects as I want to make sure that we work through the options and details that are best for the situation, so you get the best outcome possible.

 Communication is Key.  As with any successful project, the key is to have open and timely communication throughout the process.  As we work through the design I want to make sure that all of your questions get answered and that you're completely comfortable with the end result. After all, this design is for your house and will be one of the largest investments you'll make - so we want it to get it right on paper before you start building!